Flood affected farming communities urged to complete damage survey as waters recede

Flood impacted farmers and primary producers are being asked to complete the NSW Government’s Primary Industries Natural Disaster Damage Assessment  (PiNDDA) survey, once it is safe for them to undertake the task.

Clean-up efforts are well underway and there is an all-in effort – with boots and equipment on the ground – as quickly as possible to ensure the clean-up is co-ordinated, swift, and effective.

This survey collects information for government that can help shape recovery programs and support.

The damage survey allows farmers to record the number of crops, animals, and infrastructure damaged by the floods, and advise on the severity of damage in their locality.

The PiNDDA survey helps a range of government agencies, industry organisations and communities understand the scale and the impact of a disaster on primary producers, plan for recovery activities and target resources and assistance in an area.  

To make a submission, visit the portal at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/damage 

The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development can view survey information in real time.

The results are used to determine:

  • the area the natural disaster has impacted and the scale of the event
  • the severity of the impact
  • the value of damage to primary production sectors and enterprises
  • where and what assistance or resources may be needed.

Farmers requiring animal welfare assistance call AASFA hotline: 1800 814 647 (8am-6pm, 7x days)

NSW Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“The damage survey is a real time way of determining the true scale of a single event like the magor flooding seen across our east coast in recent weeks.

“This data will shape recovery programs and tailor government support to the most impacted communities and agricultural sectors.

“Our Government thanks in advance the farmers and primary producers who complete the survey and share their experiences with us. Your estimates and photos are vital in helping government and industry groups better understand immediate impacts and longer term recovery planning.”

NSW Ready for Help to Buy

An estimated 3,000 eligible home buyers across NSW will soon be able to participate in the Australian Government’s Help to Buy program each year, after the NSW Parliament passed enabling legislation.

Help to Buy will assist eligible low to middle income earners to purchase a home with a contribution from the Australian Government of up to 40 per cent of the purchase price for new homes and 30 per cent for existing homes.

Help to Buy will help to bring the dream of owning a home within reach for thousands of people earning an annual income of $100,000 or less for individuals, or up to $160,000 for couples and single parents.

Eligible NSW Help to Buy participants will be able to purchase property for up to $1.3 million in Sydney and regional centres and up to $800,000 in the rest of the state, with a requirement that the home is the principal place of residence.

10,000 places a year will be allocated across the country, with about one-third available to buyers in NSW.

Help to Buy can shrink the deposit required to buy a home to a minimum of two per cent and avoids the cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance.

The program will be funded by the Australian Government and administered by Housing Australia and is expected to commence later in 2025.

The Help to Buy program will provide another lever as the Minns Labor Government works to build a better NSW.

That includes the biggest housing reforms in a generation, including transformational rezoning across Sydney and speeding up the delivery of new homes through the TOD program.

Together, we are providing a greater choice of homes, so young people, families and workers have a place to live in the communities they choose.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said:

“We want to give more people more pathways to get into their own home and this program will help thousands in NSW do just that.

“Help to Buy can take years off the time it takes to save for a deposit and that’s meaningful relief for families.

“Around a third of the 10,000 places available every year will be right here in NSW.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“As the Minns Government continues to speed up the delivery of homes and tackle our supply challenges, the Help to Buy program will support people to buy those homes.

“In supporting this initiative, the Minns Government is helping to make housing more accessible, more affordable, and more attainable for the people who need it most.”

Minister for Finance Courtney Houssos said:

“The Minns Labor Government understands the real barriers facing families across NSW when it comes to entering the housing market.

“We welcome this important initiative from the Albanese Labor Government to support first home buyers.

“The Minns Labor Government inherited a flawed shared equity system from the previous government. The policy settings of the Albanese Government’s scheme have much better prospects for success.”

Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Rose Jackson said:

“Help to Buy is about fairness.  It’s about making the dream of owning a home achievable again for thousands of people who’ve been let down by a broken housing system.

“Home ownership has felt completely out of reach for working people.  Help to Buy will make it possible for people to own a home of their own, with a smaller deposit and no mortgage insurance.

“Alongside the biggest planning reforms in a generation, our landmark Transport Oriented Development (TOD) program – which delivers more housing near train stations and public transport – and the $6.6 billion Building Homes for NSW program, Help to Buy is one more way we’re building a better NSW where everyone has a fair shot at secure, affordable housing.”

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Veterans honoured during National Reconciliation Week

First Nations veterans are being honoured today at the 2025 Indigenous Veterans Commemoration Service which will be held at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park Sydney.

The service is hosted by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Veterans & Services Association and is proudly supported by the NSW Government, the education sector and RSL NSW.

Minister for Veterans and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris will attend the service alongside other dignitaries to pay tribute and honour the service and sacrifice of Indigenous veterans and recognise their contributions to the defence of our nation.

This is the 19th annual commemoration since its inception in 2007 and traditionally takes place on the last Friday in May, to coincide with National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June).

The commemoration is attended by schools and focuses on educating the next generation on the history of Indigenous contributions to our defence forces, spanning from the Boer

War in 1899 through to recent operations and peacekeeping.

This year’s commemoration will also be attended by schools participating in the second annual NSW Government Regional Youth Program. This program provides the opportunity for schools from each of the three school sectors to travel from regional NSW to Sydney to attend the Commemoration.

This year students from St Raphael’s Catholic School in Cowra, Clarence Valley Anglican School in Grafton and Kooringal High School in Wagga Wagga will have the opportunity to participate in today’s service.

Students will have the opportunity to meet members of the organising committee including Chair, Uncle Harry Allie who served in the Air Force and Mr Dave Williams who served in the Navy. Master of Ceremonies, Squadron Leader Coen Henry and guest speaker, Lieutenant Colonel Joseph West who will share their personal experiences as current serving members of the Defence Force.  

Minister for Veterans and Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said:

“As Minister for Veterans, and the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, I know how important it is we commemorate and remember the service and sacrifice of our Indigenous veterans.

“This commemoration is an important occasion to recognise and celebrate the invaluable role Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have played in defending our country.

“I would like to acknowledge all the schools who will be in attendance today, by educating your students on the service and sacrifice of our veterans ensures their legacy lives on and inspires the next generation.

“National Reconciliation Week is a time for our community to learn more about our Aboriginal culture, history and achievements and specifically the contributions of our Indigenous veterans and current serving Indigenous members of the Defence Force. I thank you for your service.”

Uncle Harry Allie AM BEM Chair Indigenous Veterans Commemoration said:

“As a proud descendant of the Gudjala people, a veteran of 23 years in the Royal Australian Air Force, and inaugural RAAF Indigenous Elder, it is pleasing to see this important commemoration continue to take place, honouring the service and sacrifice of Indigenous veterans.

“My family’s connection to Defence, and service to our nation commenced with my uncle in the Great War and another uncle, my aunty and father in the Second World War. Like many other Indigenous veterans have experienced, there were mixed feelings about our inclusion early on, but our commitment to service in the Navy, Air Force or Army has never wavered.

“This commemoration continues to offer an opportunity to educate current and future generations of the service and the sacrifice given by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander veterans. To have so many schools and students attending the commemoration here at the Anzac Memorial, or able to view the livestream, is wonderful to see and I hope that each of them has learnt a little more about the contributions made by Indigenous veterans.”

Ms Tobie Kate Hubber student at St Raphael’s Catholic School said:

“It is a wonderful opportunity to participate in the Regional Youth program and learn more about the contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service men and women, and see them get the recognition that they deserve.”

Mr Izaac Christian student at Clarence Valley Anglican School said:

“I’m incredibly honoured and excited to have the opportunity to travel to Sydney for the Indigenous Veterans Commemoration Service. This opportunity allows me to pay my respects to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service men and women who have bravely served our country. I have learned more about their stories and will help to ensure their contributions are remembered and celebrated.”

Ms Harlee Stearman student at Kooringal High School said:

“As a proud Wiradjuri person, it is an honour to visit the Anzac Memorial today and pay tribute to Indigenous veterans for their service and sacrifice. Their courage and dedication to protecting our country deserves our deepest respect and will ensure that their stores are never forgotten. Lest we forget.” 

Body located following search for missing fisherman – Lake Macquarie

The body of a man has been located following a marine search for a missing fisherman on Lake Macquarie yesterday.

About 4pm (Thursday 29 May 2025), police were called to Summerland Point, Lake Macquarie, following reports an 82-year-old man had not returned from a fishing trip.

Officers attached to Tuggerah Lakes Police District and Marine Area Command – with assistance from Marine Rescue NSW and Surf Life Saving NSW – arrived and began searching for the man after his boat was located abandoned.

During the search – with assistance from a Surf Life Saving NSW helicopter – the body of the man was located in the water about 7.40pm.

A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

Netball NSW Launches Flood Appeal to Support Devastated Regional Communities

Netball NSW has launched a statewide Flood Appeal in partnership with the Australian Sports Foundation, aimed at supporting regional netball Associations in northern NSW affected by the devastating May 2025 floods.

“We have lost so much – the flood destroyed our administration building and our canteen, wiping out our stock which is the main source of revenue for the Association,” Jenny Anderson, Manning Valley Netball Association President said.

“We managed to salvage the trophies, a few balls and a couple of post pads. We need to recoup all our equipment.”

The two-week fundraising initiative – running from Friday 30 May to Friday 13 June – will rally the entire netball community to support three of the hardest-hit Associations:

Manning Valley Netball Association
Nambucca Valley Netball Association
Macleay Netball Association
Funds raised will help these communities rebuild their netball facilities, replace equipment, and support the volunteers and athletes who have been impacted. Any additional Associations that have been affected by the floods can also contact Netball NSW for support.

“We’ve had overwhelming interest from across the netball community asking how they can help,” Tracey Scott, CEO Netball NSW said.

“This Appeal is a way to act together – with heart and unity – to support our netball family and provide real relief to those affected by this disaster.”

With many families displaced, courts damaged, and local infrastructure disrupted, the Appeal is a critical initiative to help restore access to the game that is such a vital part of community life across NSW.

“This is not just about netball,” Scott said.

“It’s about helping communities recover and reconnect – and giving our regional Associations the tools to bounce back.”

The launch of the Appeal will coincide with the lead-up to the HART Senior State Titles, one of the largest netball events in the Southern Hemisphere, to be held from 7-9 June across Campbelltown and Camden. With more than 220 teams and thousands of spectators expected, the event provides a powerful platform to raise both funds and awareness.

How to Donate
Donations can be made securely online via the Australian Sports Foundation:
👉 Netball NSW Flood Appeal

All donations $2 and over are tax deductible. For more information on the Appeal, contact Janyne Hogan, Head of Foundation, Netball NSW via email – jhogan@netballnsw.com.

Officer charged – Northern Region

An off-duty police officer has been charged after allegedly refusing to leave a licenced premise in the state’s north.

About 12.55am Saturday 28 December 2024, police were called to a licenced premises in Shoal Bay, following reports a group were refusing to leave.

Officers attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District arrived and were told three people were physically removed by security after they allegedly refused to leave the property when directed.

Police commenced an investigation into the incident and, following extensive inquiries, a 41-year-old male senior constable attached to Northern Region, a 41-year-old woman, and an 18-year-old man were yesterday (Friday 30 May 2025), charged with excluded person fail to leave premises when required.

The woman was also charged with common assault.

All three were issued court attendance notices to appear before Raymond Terrace Local Court on Monday 7 July 2025.

Appeal to locate teen missing from Raymond Terrace

Police are appealing for assistance to locate a teenage boy missing from state’s Hunter region.

Kieren Nean, aged 13, was last seen on Cook Street, Raymond Terrace, about 12pm on Wednesday 14 May 2025.

When he could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Newcastle Police District were contacted yesterday (Thursday 30 May 2025) and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Police and family hold concerns for his welfare due to his age.

Kieren is described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, about 165cm, of thin build, with brown hair.

He is known to frequent the Raymond Terrace and Newcastle areas.

If you see Kieren, please call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Adoption of World Health Organization Pandemic Agreement

The Australian Government welcomes the adoption of the World Health Organization (WHO) Pandemic Agreement.

The Agreement is a significant step towards strengthening pandemic prevention, preparedness and response.

The Agreement takes account of lessons learnt during the COVID-19 pandemic and supports collective action to address pandemic threats, including by strengthening multi-sectoral disease surveillance and access to vaccines.

While the Agreement has been adopted by the World Health Assembly, there are further steps remaining to finalise technical details. Australia will only commence our treaty making process after the Agreement opens for signature, which is not expected until at least mid-2026.

Once the Agreement has entered into force, Australia and our region will be better positioned to reduce pandemic risks and respond swiftly if a pandemic occurs, saving lives and mitigating the impacts on our economies. Australia will retain full sovereignty in making public health decisions which promote the interests of Australians.

Australia is proud to have served as Vice-Chair of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body for the Pandemic Agreement, representing our diverse Western Pacific region.

This outcome reaffirms the value of multilateral solutions to shared global challenges.

Australia will continue to play our part to ensure the international community is better prepared to respond to future pandemics

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong:

“We need international cooperation on health to help keep Australia, our region, and the world safe. The adoption of the WHO Pandemic Agreement demonstrates the value of the international community working together to find solutions to shared global challenges.”

Minister for Health and Ageing, Minister for Disability and the NDIS, the Hon Mark Butler MP:

“The next pandemic is not a matter of if, but when. We have a collective responsibility to protect public health in all of our countries. The adoption of the WHO Pandemic Agreement is an important step forward.”

Committee report into government’s proposed workers compensation changes reveals widespread lack of support

NSW Parliament’s Law and Justice Committee has just handed down its report into the NSW Labor Government’s proposed changes to workers compensation entitlements. This follows a mammoth hearing just last Friday where the Committee heard from almost 40 witnesses across nine and a half hours of evidence. 

The evidence contained in the report details near universal opposition to the major elements of the government’s proposed reforms from witnesses and stakeholders. 

The inquiry into the government’s legislation follows only two years after the Committee conducted a fulsome and comprehensive inquiry into the drivers and impacts of workplace psychological injuries resulting in compensation claims. The majority of recommendations, including key prevention and management recommendations, from that report remain unfulfilled. Despite the NSW Labor government agreeing or agreeing in principle to all of those recommendations, many of the elements of the government’s proposed reforms are in direct contradiction to those recommendations. 

Abigail Boyd, Greens Spokesperson for Treasury, Work Health and Safety, and Industrial Relations: 

“The evidence received by the committee in our one-day hearing painted a damning picture of what the government proposes to do to injured workers in this state. 

“Everything we heard pointed to just how ill-conceived and incomprehensibly cruel the Minns Labor Government’s proposed curtailment of support for psychologically injured workers is – these reforms will be actively harmful to thousands of injured and deserving people. 

“The government’s inability to present coherent modelling and financial analysis of either the scheme liabilities or the impact of these proposed changes is cause for great concern. Projected future rates of growth of psychological injury are based on heroic assumptions that only an actuary could love, and a highly motivated one at that. It’s on these shaky projections that the supposed crisis the government claims to be responding to is based. 

“But even if you are to believe that there is to be some catastrophic blowout in costs from psychological injuries, the answer is not to pretend those injuries don’t exist – we have to focus on stopping people getting injured at work in the first place and, if they are injured, doing everything we can to get them quickly back on their feet. Anything less is not only dangerous to workers’ lives and morally wrong, it’s also an incredibly naive way to manage the State’s longer-term finances, dependent as they are on a productive and resilient workforce. 

“The proposal to increase the threshold for accessing long-term support to a level that would require a worker to be rendered essentially catatonic or in need of permanent around-the-clock professional care was identified by experts as being particularly cruel and without basis or justification. If allowed to go through, these changes will cost lives.” 

CLIMATE BETRAYAL: GREENS NORTH WEST SHELF MOTION DEFEATED AS VIC LABOR BOASTS ‘BILLIONS’ OF NEW GAS INVESTMENT IN VICTORIA

This morning, a Victorian Greens request to urgently debate the Albanese Labor Government’s decision to approve the extension of the North West Shelf gas project in the Victorian Parliament was denied.

The Victorian Greens used a tool that allows MPs to bring matters of urgent public importance forward for debate in the Parliament at short notice – arguing that as the state faces worsening drought and NSW reels from once-in-500-year floods, the project’s 6.1 billion tonnes of emissions will fuel climate chaos impacting every Victorian, harming public health, driving up insurance costs, and endangering future generations.

The request was denied. In response, the Greens say: if Labor approving a climate bomb with projected emissions of up to 6.1 billion tonnes isn’t a matter of urgent public importance, then what is?

It comes on the same day that state Labor has made comments boasting of billions of dollars in new gas investment in Victoria this year alone.

The Greens have accused the Victorian Labor Government of following in Albo’s footsteps, saying that Labor is guilty of ‘climate betrayal’ at both levels of government.

The North West Shelf Project will release more emissions than every coal-fired power station in Australia combined, locking in fossil fuel use until 2070 – decades beyond the climate deadlines set by the IPCC and Paris Agreement.

The Victorian Greens say that the Parliament shouldn’t be avoiding scrutiny and debate on such an important matter that will impact every Victorian.

Leader of the Victorian Greens, Ellen Sandell:

“Woodside’s massive new gas project is a climate bomb – the equivalent of opening 12 new coal-fired power stations. Labor’s approval of this disastrous project will blow our climate targets, supercharging floods, bushfires and extreme weather already hitting Victorians. If that’s not a matter of urgent public importance for Parliament to debate, I don’t know what is.”

“It’s incredibly disappointing to see Labor here in Victoria boasting about new gas projects the day after their federal Labor colleagues approved Woodside’s climate disaster. Future generations will never forgive Labor for this climate betrayal”