Community invited to learn more and have their say on Astra Aerolab plans

City of Newcastle is kicking off consultation to capture insights into the community’s views and knowledge of future plans for the Newcastle Airport precinct.

The precinct is experiencing a period of growth and transformation, with the Airport’s international terminal due to open in August.

A 76-hectare parcel of land adjoining the Airport and Williamtown RAAF Base, known as Astra Aerolab, is also undergoing a major redevelopment into Australia’s newest innovation, defence and aerospace precinct.

This precinct was initially identified as part of Newcastle Airport’s Masterplan, which outlined a 60-year vision for development of the Airport and a 20-year blueprint for growth.  

The community consultation follows a resolution of the elected Council in October 2024.

The motion was proposed by Councillor Charlotte McCabe, who said it was appropriate for City of Newcastle, as a co-owner of Newcastle Airport, to understand the community’s views on the future development.

“This survey is an important opportunity for the community to give feedback about the Astra Aerolab defence precinct, which the Council jointly owns with Port Stephens Council,” Cr McCabe said. 

“Revenue that’s generated by the precinct will be used to deliver services and infrastructure in our Newcastle local government area, so the community needs to be fully informed and carefully consulted.”

Astra Aerolab has secured significant investment and support from the NSW Government and Australian Government, with the first stage of civil infrastructure work now complete and future development stages underway.

Tenants already secured for the precinct include defence contractor BAE Systems Australia and Kongsberg Defence Australia.

A mixture of phone, online and face-to-face surveys will be undertaken to gauge community sentiment, identify any issues or concerns and build understanding of the project.

For more information or to take part in the survey visit City of Newcastle’s Have Your Say page by 25 June.

Project FAQs

What is Astra Aerolab? It’s the name of a new industrial park under construction directly next to Newcastle Airport and RAAF Base Williamtown. It’s a 76-hectare site for defence and aerospace industries.

What other names is Astra Aerolab known by? Its company name is Greater Newcastle Aerotropolis Proprietary Limited.

Who owns Astra Aerolab? Newcastle Airport – which is jointly owned by City of Newcastle and Port Stephens councils.

How long has Astra Aerolab been in development? Newcastle Airport bought the site in 2018 as part of its masterplan to transform the airport precinct. The aim was to attract new industries to the Hunter to support the defence sector, including advanced manufacturing. 

Will ratepayers have to pay if Newcastle Airport or Astra Aerolab incur debts? No. The company structures ensure any debt incurred by Newcastle Airport or Astra Aerolab would be kept in the company’s asset pool. It would not be passed on to ratepayers.

Is Newcastle Airport in financial trouble? No – in fact a recent external audit confirmed it’s financially sound and forecast to make a net profit for the 2024/2025 financial year of approximately $3 million.

What are the benefits of Astra Aerolab? The industrial park will be a hub for new industries supporting the defence sector, including advanced manufacturing. This is expected to bring jobs and economic benefits to the region.

Do ratepayers have a say in decisions about the Airport and Astra Aerolab? Not directly. Decisions about the running of both companies are made by the board of directors. However, both City of Newcastle and Port Stephens councils have representative board members.

When will Astra Aerolab be up and running with businesses moving in? Construction of the first building is expected to begin in August and be complete by the end of next year.

Have any business tenants signed up yet? BAE Systems Australia and Kongsberg Defence Australia will be the first major tenants. Negotiations are currently underway with another potential tenant, a global aerospace company.

What zoning applies to Astra Aerolab? The land was rezoned in 2013 and is a Defence and Airport Related Employment Zone (or DAREZ).

New campaign shows Sydney is so much more than our icons

The Minns Labor Government has unveiled the next chapter of the ‘Feel New’ campaign that showcases Sydney beyond the postcard-perfect icons, and asks Australians to rediscover the city and experience a new side of Sydney.

According to the Destination NSW Brand Engagement Monitor in April 2025, 79% of all Australian travellers have visited Sydney before. Sydney is currently ranked third for consideration to travel amongst domestic travellers in the next 12 months.

Qualitative research undertaken by The Lab has showed that people know Sydney for its incredible icons. But there’s a sense that once travellers have seen the well-known icons, Sydney doesn’t offer anything significantly different from other cities. They couldn’t be more wrong.

The next chapter of the ‘Feel New’ campaign targets ‘new experience seekers’ from around the country who want busy, full days when travelling.

The new campaign showcases the unique offering our city has to offer beyond the icons. World class food offerings, stunning natural beauty, exhilarating adventures, international sporting events and a vibrant arts and music culture.

The campaign showcases the depth and breadth of experiences on offer to visitors, from oyster farms to rooftop bars, hot air balloon rides to snorkelling in Sydney’s unique coastal locations like the Great Southern Reef at Shelley Beach.

Backed by ongoing investment in aviation, events, and experiences, the campaign is just one of several initiatives to grow domestic visitation and grow the local visitor economy.

Research has shown that audiences who have engaged with the Feel New brand are more likely to book a trip or extend their stay and have injected an additional $323 million into the NSW visitor economy to date.

Destination NSW has also partnered with six NSW ‘icons of culture’ who have curated their own emotion-led personal itineraries to help visitors live like a local. The NSW ‘icons of culture’ all live in Sydney or were born in NSW and include Olympian Jess Fox, celebrated chef Dan Hong, writer, broadcaster and comedian Lucinda Price (Froomes), ultra-marathon runner Nedd Brockmann, award winning musician Budjerah and comedic duo The Inspired Unemployed.

The campaign will roll out across TV, outdoor, radio, digital and social channels until 30 August 2025.

Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said:

“Sydney was just ranked as one of Time Out’s top five global cities for culture, but when you ask Australians about Sydney they’ll say “I’ve already seen the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.”

“What is clear in the research is that our icons alone are not enough to get people to visit and revisit Sydney. We need to do a better job at showcasing all our city has to offer, we need to be more than our icons.

“We have the Blue Mountains, the best beaches, award-winning vineyards, and world-class snorkelling, and all within a couple hours. Sydney is home to world leading restaurants, an exciting blend of food cultures, the largest sporting events and a vibrant arts and music scene.

“We have so much to offer, which is why we are asking Australians to explore our beautiful city, dive deeper and feel a new side of Sydney.

“There are infinite combinations of experiences on offer, and I think this campaign puts them top of mind for potential visitors.”

Business Sydney Executive Director Paul Nicolaou said:

“This next phase of the ‘Feel New’ campaign is exactly what Sydney needs. As an international and global city, we’ve long been defined by our stunning icons—but what keeps people coming back are the stories, the communities, and the experiences that can’t be captured in a postcard.

“By spotlighting the vibrant layers of local culture, food, art, and nature that exist beyond the usual landmarks, this campaign not only diversifies the visitor experience but also supports the small businesses and local creatives who are the lifeblood of our city.”

“Post-pandemic travel habits have shifted, with more Australians seeking meaningful, immersive experiences over traditional sightseeing. Campaigns like ‘Feel New’ respond directly to this change by encouraging travellers to go beyond the surface.

“Whether it’s discovering a hidden laneway bar, attending a local festival, or hiking coastal trails that locals love, this initiative repositions Sydney as not just a destination, but an experience that evolves with every visit.”

Transport and Tourism Forum CEO Margy Osmond said:

“It’s fantastic to see the NSW Government investing in Sydney’s unique tourism offering, from world-class culinary options, nightlife, cultural experiences and more, well beyond the bridge and the sails.

“This campaign is about inviting the world to see beyond Sydney’s icons and why locals love living in this evolving and exciting destination – a city bursting with energy, culture and creativity at every turn. We see enormous potential to increase visitation and deliver long-term economic benefits for Sydney’s communities and businesses”.

Chef, restaurateur and author Dan Hong said:

“The driving force behind this new marketing campaign for Sydney is to attract more visitors who will have the opportunity to discover Sydney’s world-class food scene. Increased visitation directly benefits the hospitality sector and creates a ripple effect that supports local jobs and stimulates the economy. I’m proud of the quality of food that Sydney serves up and want more people to know about what we have on offer.”

Rosalind Croucher appointed NSW Information Commissioner

Emeritus Professor Rosalind Croucher AM, distinguished lawyer, educator and human rights advocate has been appointed the NSW Information Commissioner. 

In her role as Information Commissioner, Professor Croucher will lead the Information and Privacy Commission NSW (IPC), an independent statutory authority administering NSW legislation dealing with privacy and access to government information. 

Professor Croucher brings extensive experience from a distinguished career spanning senior executive roles in both the private and public sectors. She previously served as President of the Australian Human Rights Commission and as President and Commissioner of the Australian Law Reform Commission where she led several major law reform inquiries. 

Professor Croucher was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2015 for significant service to the law as an academic, to legal reform and education, to professional development and to the arts. 

The Information Commissioner’s statutory roles include promoting public awareness and understanding of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (GIPA Act); providing information, advice, assistance, and training to agencies and the public; dealing with complaints about agencies; investigating agencies’ systems, policies and practices; and reporting on compliance with the GIPA Act. 

Find out more about the Information and Privacy Commission NSW here: https://www.ipc.nsw.gov.au/ 

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said: 

“I welcome the appointment of Rosalind Croucher AM as NSW Information Commissioner. 

“Professor Croucher has extensive experience across highly respected and important programs of work which are testament to her capabilities and values. 

“Her appointment reflects the NSW Government’s commitment to promoting trust and transparency, with the role of Information Commissioner essential in strengthening the relationship between government and the public.” 

Attorney General Michael Daley said: 

“I congratulate Rosalind Croucher AM on her appointment as NSW Information Commissioner. She is an eminently qualified appointee who brings significant government, private sector and legal experience to the role.” 

NSW Information Commissioner Rosalind Croucher said: 

“It’s an honour to be appointed to the role of NSW Information Commissioner, and I look forward to working with the Privacy Commissioner, NSW Government agencies and the community to promote the important work of the Information and Privacy Commission NSW. 

“The people of NSW deserve full confidence in how government information is handled and protected. They should also understand their rights to access information and how to exercise those rights.” 

Digital deal delivers boost to Bradfield innovation ecosystem

The Minns Labor Government is making sure Bradfield will be a fully digital city from day one, equipped to support high-tech industries, institutions, and technologies, after a digital infrastructure partnership was formed with Australian telecommunications company and internet service provider Superloop. 

Under the commercial deal, Superloop and partner OneWiFi will deliver critical infrastructure services to support the city as an innovation hub and great place to live and work. 

The Minns Labor Government are building better communities by delivering critical supporting infrastructure, including roads, transport, open spaces and digital connectivity.

The City Centre will offer free public Wi-Fi in streets and parks to enhance digital coverage and convenience for residents, workers, students, and visitors.  

As part of the deal Superloop will deliver a network of serviced Multi-Function Poles around the city with CCTV cameras, electric bike charging, environmental sensors and banner space for public art, providing both convenience and safety.  

The streets of Bradfield will be free of bulky telecommunications cabinetry with the necessary infrastructure hidden in high-quality urban design.  

The digital infrastructure will activate the precinct ahead of the development of the first 4.8 hectare mixed-use Superlot that will see homes, a hotel, retail, food and beverage, as well as commercial, research, education and other services at its heart. 

This is all part of the Minns Labor Government’s $1.2 billion dollar investment to deliver Bradfield City Centre, with 20,000 new jobs and advanced industries building a stronger future for Western Sydney.  

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:   

“Bradfield is Australia’s first new city in 100 years and this agreement will make sure it has the digital infrastructure required to support future businesses and residents from day one. 

“With abundant digital capacity for high-tech industries today and in the future, we’re laying the foundations for 20,000 high value jobs and 10,000 new homes in the new city. 

“We need to get the digital capability of Bradfield right for generations to come.” 

Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said:  

“We are working to ensure the new Bradfield City Centre supports its residents with quality infrastructure and technology, so this new Western Sydney community can flourish. 

“The Bradfield area stands to create fantastic opportunities for its residents and the people of Western Sydney, particularly as we draw closer to the opening of the new Western Sydney Airport. 

“Ensuring the residents of this new city are digitally connected from day one is part of our broader commitment to build better communities for the people of Western Sydney.” 

Superloop CEO Paul Tyler said:  

“It’s fitting that one of Australia’s fastest growing internet providers has been tapped to enable one of Australia’s fastest growing regions.   

“We share an ambition to create an intelligent, connected community that benefits from high-speed internet that opens up opportunities and unlocks a better quality of life. 

“Designing equitable, high speed, reliable network solutions with capacity to scale is core to our DNA and our wholesale roots. Partnering with the Bradfield Development Authority now means Superloop can build a future-ready network for the community that serves as a springboard for innovation and growth.  

“We’re thrilled that Superloop has been chosen to set this once in a generation new city up to thrive. It’s a fantastic endorsement of the Superloop network, and we can’t wait to see the people of Bradfield enjoying truly great internet.”  

Background:  

  • Superloop is a major Australian telecommunications company with a reputation for providing high-speed internet connections.  
  • Founded in 2014, this ASX-listed telecommunications company has a current market capital value of $995 million.
  • Superloop employs over 600 people and provides telecommunication services to residential, business and wholesale markets with a reputation for competitive pricing across the faster speed tiers.  
  • Established in 2012, OneWiFi is delivering best-in-class solutions to over 1,200 locations across Australia, including retail precincts, shopping centres, hospitality venues, commercial buildings, and regional communities.  
  • Under the commercial deal Superloop will:
    • operate the first 18km of pit and pipe infrastructure built in the city as the new asset owner and provide high-speed fibre and wholesale internet services to the many retailers serving end customers.
    • operate the first 101 Multi-Function Poles in the city, including providing services to create a vibrant and safe place with seasonal banners, CCTV and environmental sensors.
  • Access to the pit and pipe infrastructure owned by Superloop will be available to other telecommunication providers and business and residents will have their choice internet retailers. 

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Newcastle making waves on the world surfing stage

Newcastle is making waves like never before, officially stepping into the global spotlight as the first stop of the prestigious 2025/26 World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series.

For the first time ever, Australia’s oldest and most iconic surfing festival, Surfest, has been elevated to the WSL Challenger Series calendar, propelling Newcastle to the forefront of the international surfing scene.

This announcement marks a landmark moment not only for Newcastle but for the wider Hunter region, signalling a new era for tourism and global recognition.

With Surfest now headlining a world-class professional surfing competition, Newcastle is set to attract thousands of visitors, from elite athletes to passionate fans, putting the city firmly on the world map as a premier coastal destination.

Supported by the NSW Government through Destination NSW, the event’s return has been confirmed for 8–15 March 2026, where the WSL Challenger Series will once again close out its season on Newcastle’s shores.

This ongoing commitment ensures that Newcastle will continue to build on the momentum generated in 2025, reinforcing its reputation as a world-class surfing hub.

The 2026 Surfest will also celebrate its incredible 40th anniversary, marking four decades of showcasing grassroots, amateur and professional surfing competitions along Newcastle and the Hunter’s coastline.

With more than 80 elite male surfers and 48 elite female surfers competing for coveted spots on the WSL Championship Tour, the event promises thrilling competition and unforgettable moments.

Projected to attract a global broadcast audience of 3.5 million viewers, Surfest will shine an international spotlight on Newcastle’s rich surfing heritage, vibrant culture and spectacular coastline.

This event is expected to inject significant economic and tourism benefits into the Hunter region, drawing visitors and media from across the globe.

Adding to Newcastle’s surfing surge, the imminent August opening of Newcastle Airport’s international terminal will provide direct access for international athletes, media and fans, further cementing the city’s status as a key destination on the world surfing circuit.

As Newcastle rides this exciting wave, the city is poised to become a must-visit destination for surfers and tourists alike, showcasing the best of Australia’s coastal lifestyle on a truly global stage.

Minister for Tourism Steve Kamper said:

“Surfest is more than just a sporting event – it brings thousands of visitors, boosts local businesses, and showcases the talent and spirit of Newcastle’s incredible surfing community.

“This is an exciting time for Newcastle. Surfest is riding a wave of momentum and the NSW Government is proud to support its growth into an even bigger international event.”

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said:

“Hosting the WSL Challenger Series puts the Hunter on the map and shows off what makes this place so special – great waves, amazing scenery and a laid-back lifestyle.

“This event means more visitors, more business for our local shops and cafes and more jobs for people right here in the Hunter.

“We’re building the Hunter into a place people want to visit again and again – with must-see events, beautiful beaches and a real sense of community.”

Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said:

“Surfest is part of the fabric of Newcastle. It brings our community together, celebrates our beautiful coastline and showcases the passion and talent of our local surf scene.

“It’s fantastic to see the NSW Government backing this iconic event, and I look forward to welcoming visitors from around the world to experience the best of what Newcastle has to offer.”

A new era for Tasmania: Opening of the new Bridgewater Bridge

The Albanese and Rockliff Governments are proud to mark a historic milestone for Tasmania, with the official opening of the new Bridgewater Bridge – the largest transport infrastructure project in the state’s history.

The $786 million project represents a significant investment in Tasmania’s future, delivering modern infrastructure that improves connectivity, enhances freight and passenger movement, and supports economic growth across the state.

The Australian Government contributed $628.8 million to the transformative project, with the Tasmanian Government contributing the remaining $157.2 million. The new bridge has been delivered on time and on budget.

The new four-lane bridge will deliver faster, more reliable travel times for commuters, freight operators and locals, significantly reducing bottlenecks on this key section of the highway network.

The new bridge is the fifth to be built across the River Derwent at Bridgewater and symbolises the next chapter in the evolution of this critical transport link.

It replaces ageing infrastructure with a state-of-the-art structure that will serve the people of Tasmania for decades to come. 

The 1.2-kilometre-long crossing will improve safety for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists, with new interchanges, a 3-metre-wide shared path and modern safety features.

The bridge also includes improved access for marine traffic, with a higher clearance and no lift span, reducing delays and improving efficiency for both road and river users.

It has been designed to support growth throughout the region and has been built with a vision towards the future of the state.

Since construction began in October 2022, the project has supported around 1000 jobs, more than 25 per cent of which were employees from the local area.   

Thanks to targeted employment and training programs, the project has created pathways for apprentices, trainees and people new to the civil construction industry to gain real-world experience on a nationally significant construction site.

This ensures the state’s workforce is equipped for the pipeline of future Tasmanian infrastructure projects.

The new bridge will open to traffic from tomorrow (Monday, 2 June) with all four lanes operating at 80 km/h.

Works across the project site will continue over coming weeks, including landscaping, construction of the new roundabout linking Old Main Road and Gunn Street, and removal of the temporary bridge and barges.

For more information about the project and to see the latest flythrough footage, visit the project website at bridgewaterbridge.tas.gov.au.

Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese

“My Government is building Australia’s future by investing in transformative transport infrastructure like the Bridgewater Bridge.

“We have worked with the Tasmanian Government to deliver a landmark project that will improve safety, deliver a better commuter experience, and boost productivity in this great state.

“The Bridgewater Bridge is about more than meeting the needs of Tasmanians today – it’s about making sure that Tasmanians have the world class infrastructure they deserve for generations to come.”

Premier of Tasmania Jeremy Rockliff

“This is a bridge built by Tasmanians for Tasmanians, and is something that everyone in the State can be proud of.

“The Bridgewater Bridge has been talked about for decades, but together with every person involved in this project, we have delivered it.

“The new Bridge is a testament to what we can achieve in Tasmania when we work together.

“Major infrastructure projects like this inspire, support our economy, upskill our people, and build a better Tasmania: now and for the future.

“I want to acknowledge the Federal Government for working with us to deliver this inter-generational infrastructure for Tasmania.”

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King

“The first Bridgewater Bridge opened in 1848, and today we’re opening the fifth, marking a historic milestone in the history of Tasmania.

“Investing in major infrastructure projects doesn’t just keep people and goods moving, it provides an ongoing boost to local economies through more efficient and effective transport.

“We are proud to partner with the Tasmanian Government and local industry to deliver this important project which will improve safety, support economic growth and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.”

Tasmanian Minister for Infrastructure Kerry Vincent

“This bridge stands as a testament to what can be achieved when we work together.

“It is more than just concrete and steel. It is a once-in-a-generation project and a symbol of what the future holds for Tasmania.

“I want to thank the local community for their patience and understanding during the construction period.

“The resilience of the local community and the travelling public are what has made this landmark of national significance a success.”

Appeal to locate teenage boy missing from Muswellbrook

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a teenage boy reported missing from the Hunter Valley

Levi Rogers, aged 15, was last seen in Muswellbrook, about 7pm yesterday (Sunday 1 June 2025).

When he could not be located or contacted, officers attached to the Hunter Valley Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

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

Levi is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 165cm tall, thin build and short brown hair.

He was last seen wearing a black hooded jumper, white/grey coloured pants, black socks and black shoes.

Levi is known to frequent the Muswellbrook area.