June 2025 – Page 3

Irreplaceable: New SafeWork campaign and $127.7m Budget injection to further protect workers

The Minns Labor Government is launching a $2.9m SafeWork NSW ‘irreplaceable’ campaign highlighting the importance of staying safe at work and the impact of workplace injuries and fatalities on families, communities, and businesses.

The SafeWork campaign reinforces that while everyone is important at work, they are irreplaceable at home, whether they be a parent, son or daughter, sibling, partner, friend or teammate.

According to recent figures, there was an annual average of 52 work-related fatalities reported in NSW in the past three years. That’s one death every week over 12 months.

The initiative will be rolled out from Sunday 29 June across television, radio and social video platforms and caters for various Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) audiences.

The campaign follows the NSW Government’s 2025-26 Budget announcement to strengthen the state’s work health and safety regulator with a major $127.7 million investment over the next four years to address psychosocial hazards and compliance and enforcement of safe work practices.

The Budget investment will see SafeWork NSW inspector numbers bolstered from 370 to 469 in total over the past two years which amounts to a 27 percent increase.

51 new inspector roles will be recruited, which includes 20 psychosocial-focused inspectors and five psychosocial investigators.

An expanded SafeWork NSW inspectorate sharpens the agency’s focus on psychological health at work, provides dedicated resources on psychosocial injury prevention, investigations and prosecutions, and ensures employers meet their return-to-work obligations to injured workers.

It also strengthens SafeWork NSW’s capacity and capability as the agency becomes an independent regulator on 1 July 2025.

The funding will also see SafeWork NSW establish a new Psychosocial Advisory Service, which will connect NSW workers with expert support, and where needed, escalate work health and safety breaches to dedicated psychosocial inspectors.

The service will be staffed by a team of seven appropriately qualified staff and deliver up to 25,000 consultations or assessments each year.

The targeted reform is part of a broader $344 million Workplace Mental Health package, strengthening mental health support and injury prevention strategies in NSW workplaces.

For more information, or for access to free advice, toolkits and resources to stay informed on workplace health and safety, visit the SafeWork NSW website here or call 13 10 50.

More information on how businesses should manage psychosocial risk at work is available on the SafeWork NSW website: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/hazards-a-z/mental-health

Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said:

“I welcome this advertising campaign and new funding as we continue to reform and reshape SafeWork NSW into the strong and robust regulator needed to secure safe and healthy workplaces.

“We will take a firm stance to address persistent issues, working with industry, unions, workers and their representatives to secure compliance with our work health and safety laws.

“Every worker has the right to go to work and come home safely to their family and friends.”

SafeWork NSW Executive Director Strategic & Corporate Services Petrina Casey said:

“We hope this campaign can drive home the message that while we may be important at work, the people we go home to at the end of the day are what matters most and if this can help drive some behavioural changes in the workplace, it’ll go a long way to saving lives.

“Unfortunately, a lot of people believe workplace safety doesn’t impact them and that accidents at work happen to other people. We hope this campaign drives home the message that workplace safety affects everyone.

“Workplace safety is everyone’s responsibility because ultimately, we are all irreplaceable to the ones we love.

“This campaign will no doubt help SafeWork NSW continue its important role in addressing persistent issues, by working with workers, industry and unions to secure compliance with our work health and safety laws.

“We are continuing to reform and reshape SafeWork NSW into the strong and robust regulator needed to secure safe and healthy workplace in NSW.“

Teenage leaders to be champions for women’s and girls sport

Eight teenage girls have the future of women’s and girls sport in their hands following their selection to the Minns Labor Government’s first Teenage Advisory Committee, as part of the Play Her Way Strategy.

The teenage girls – ranging in ages 16 to 19 from across NSW – were chosen following a state-wide process to identify a group who could be a voice on some of the biggest issues affecting young women in sport. 

The Teenage Advisory Committee is an initiative of the Minns Labor Government’s Play Her Way Strategy, a four-year plan to get more NSW women and girls involved and staying in sport. 

Play Her Way has a focus on addressing the low rates of participation among adolescent girls after research found a 23 per cent gap in participation rates among boys and girls aged 15-17 in NSW. 

The Teenage Advisory Committee will provide advice to the NSW Government on how to break down the barriers preventing teenage girls participating in sport and propose new and innovative ways to keep teenage girls involved.

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:

“The Teenage Advisory Committee is a fresh approach for the way government develops sporting programs for women and girls.  It flips the script by letting women and girls control their destiny and determine how they play sport. 

“The committee members come from a range of backgrounds, experiences and locations to represent the voices of teenage girls aged 16–20. 

“By giving them a voice, we’re providing a platform to create, advise and inspire change in sport for teenage girls. 

“The Teenage Advisory Committee will shape initiatives that increase participation and retention across NSW. 

“Through the Teenage Advisory Committee, Play Her Way is delivering on what it says: ensuring every woman and girl in NSW can play sport her way.” 

Teenage Advisory Committee Member Matilda Webb, 16, from Bella Vista said:

“I’m so excited to be chosen as part of this incredible group of diverse girls from across NSW to work on a really exciting strategy and government program to help empower girls and women in sport.  

“Hearing all the diverse voices in the group, it really highlighted that there are common themes that we all value in sport.” 

Teenage Advisory Committee Member Sadida Wilson, 18, from the Central Coast said:

“There are so many opportunities for girls in sport right now, whether they are playing or whether they are looking for a job working in the sports industry – it’s a really exciting time.”

Teenage Advisory Committee Member Jasmine Patankar, 18, from Kellyville said:

“I’m most excited to be able to contribute to offering better and more positive experiences for girls in sport.

“I’m involved in coaching, so to be able to see the opportunities and experiences the girls I coach are wanting to have, and to be able to have a positive impact on that, will be really cool.”

Albanese Government supporting Pacific partners through investment in regional maritime security

The Albanese Government is delivering on its commitment to double funding for the aerial surveillance component of the Pacific Maritime Security Program (PMSP).

The PMSP aerial surveillance program supports maritime security for our Pacific partners through the provision of fixed-wing aerial surveillance capabilities and uncrewed aerial vehicles.

Defence has recently closed a Request for Tender process to procure the Enhanced Aerial Surveillance Program’s civilian-based fixed-wing aerial surveillance contracted services.

The Government will now consider all tender submissions and provide an outcome to industry on completion of the process.

The PMSP is Australia’s 30-year commitment to investing in maritime security partnerships throughout the Pacific.

To learn more about the PMSP, visit: https://www.defence.gov.au/defence-activities/programs-initiatives/pacific-engagement/maritime-capability

Minister for Defence Industry and Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Pat Conroy:

“Australia is proud to be a security partner of choice for Pacific countries.

“This is another step forward in increasing regional security and enhancing coordination and communication in conjunction with our Pacific partners.”

Australia deepens collaboration with NATO and takes further action to hold Russia to account

The Albanese Government is deepening Australia’s cooperation with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and taking further action to support Ukraine and hold Russia to account for its illegal and immoral war.

During the NATO Leaders’ Summit in The Hague, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, announced Australia will make a further contribution to NATO operations in support of Ukraine.

At the request of NATO and Poland, a Royal Australian Air Force E-7A Wedgetail aircraft will deploy to Europe in August to help protect a vital international gateway for humanitarian and military assistance into Ukraine.

Under Operation Kudu, up to 100 ADF personnel will deploy alongside the aircraft. The aircraft deployment is expected to conclude by November 2025.

This deployment of ADF aircraft and personnel complements Australia’s overall support to Ukraine of more than $1.5 billion since the start of Russia’s invasion.

As part of the Albanese Government’s ongoing work to hold Russia to account for its illegal invasion of Ukraine, Australia has also today imposed another wave of sanctions designed to further weaken Russia’s war economy.

This includes new targeted financial sanctions and travel bans on 37 individuals, and targeted financial sanctions on seven entities.

These sanctions target Russia’s defence, energy, transport, insurance, electronics and finance sectors, as well as promulgators of Russian disinformation and propaganda.

During the Summit, Australia also signed an agreement with the NATO Support and Procurement Organisation (NSPO). The NSPO Agreement strengthens Australia’s cooperation with NATO partners on capability acquisition, systems support and logistics.

Under the agreement, the Australian Defence Force will be able to gain access to collaborative procurement efforts with NATO partners.

The new partnership also unlocks wider opportunities for Australian defence industry to access new markets across NATO supply chains.

\Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon Richard Marles MP:

“Australia is proud of its longstanding operational partnership with NATO.

“The deployment of an E-7A Wedgetail aircraft will again showcase our ability to operate from Europe, alongside NATO and partners, in support of Ukraine and international peace and security.

“Signing the NSPO Agreement opens the door to new partnerships for us to deliver capability and operational responsiveness for the Australian Defence Force.”

\Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong:

“Australia remains steadfast in our support for Ukraine and in our commitment to a com-prehensive, just and lasting peace.

“Our targeted sanctions reflect our close coordination with key NATO partners, including the UK, Canada and the European Union.

“Australia has now imposed more than 1,500 sanctions in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. We will continue to work with partners to disrupt Russia’s ability to fund its illegal and immoral war.”

Australia to boost support for Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting in Solomon Islands

Australia will boost support for the 54th Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders’ Meeting in Solomon Islands as part of ongoing cooperation and commitment to a peaceful, stable and prosperous region.

As a founding member of the PIF, Australia is committed to working with the Pacific family.

At the request of the Solomon Islands Government, Australia will provide a comprehensive support package, both for the hosting of this important regional meeting and to bolster the enduring capability of Solomon Islands. This package includes the provision of approximately 60 security vehicles, support for cybersecurity, upgrades to Honiara’s roads, and approximately $3 million for logistics support.

This support will ensure the meeting delivers progress on the region’s priorities and positions Solomon Islands to drive greater regional coordination and unity for the year ahead.

Australia continues to be the Pacific’s largest development partner, and security partner of choice. Australia’s support is focussed on inclusive economic growth, sustainable infrastructure, jobs, skills, and connectivity. We recognise our role in contributing to a stronger Pacific family and upholding our common values so we can all make our own decisions as strong sovereign nations, free to grow and live together peacefully.

The PIF Leaders’ Meeting in September will be an opportunity to work together to seize new opportunities and overcome shared challenges.

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Penny Wong:

“In times of global uncertainty, the Pacific Islands Forum unites our region and makes us stronger.

“It is key to realising Pacific leaders’ vision for a peaceful, stable and prosperous Pacific region.

“We look forward to Solomon Islands taking on the leadership of this important institution and are committed to supporting Prime Minister Manele and his government to build a stronger, more united Blue Pacific Continent.”

Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, The Hon Pat Conroy MP:

“The Pacific is best served by Pacific-led institutions and processes.

“Our support will ensure the meeting delivers progress on the region’s priorities and positions Solomon Islands to drive greater regional coordination and unity for the year ahead.

“Australia’s commitment to Solomon Islands and the broader Pacific is steadfast. We are stronger together.”

Unfair funding cut to BREAZE threatens Ballarat’s clean energy progress

Responding to a community protest supporting BREAZE, a volunteer-run renewable energy group recently cut from funding by the City of Ballarat, Senator Steph Hodgins-May and Sarah Mansfield MLC have raised serious concerns about transparency and fairness.

The group says the decision was made without good-faith engagement and was based on unrelated political views expressed by a former board member speaking out against the genocide in Gaza.

BREAZE plays a crucial role in driving Ballarat’s clean energy transition. This move threatens to stall Ballarat’s renewable progress and erode community trust.

Greens Senator for Victoria, Steph Hodgins-May:

“BREAZE is an incredible volunteer-run organisation helping power Ballarat’s clean energy future.

“The council has cut ties with this vital community group, and refuses to engage with them in good faith, all because of posts by a former board member that, like so many Australians, express horror at the genocide taking place in Gaza.

“This will jeopardise Ballarat’s ability to respond to the climate crisis and drive the renewable energy transition.

“In a healthy democracy, we need space to speak openly and freely.

“The community deserves transparency and fairness. This decision should be revisited and funding restored so BREAZE can get on with building a cleaner, brighter future for Ballarat.”

Deputy Leader of the Victorian Greens and MLC for Western Victoria, Dr Sarah Mansfield:

“The council’s decision to cut the funding of a community group working for real climate action with the people of Ballarat undermines crucial efforts towards cleaner, more sustainable energy, as well as community trust.

“The council has failed to engage fairly or transparently with BREAZE, raising serious concerns about this decision, and I’d urge them to restore funding to BREAZE so they can continue their vital work empowering the Ballarat community towards zero emissions.”

ACT Greens reject Labor’s unfair levy on every day Canberrans

The ACT Greens have today announced they will not support the proposal from the ACT’s minority Labor Government to impose a $250 levy on every day Canberrans.

“Not only is this levy unfair, but it passes on the failures of both Territory and Federal Labor to create a truly universal healthcare system,” said ACT Greens Leader, Shane Rattenbury.

“A flat levy does not take into account a person’s ability to pay and does not reflect the type of city we want to build. It will unfairly impact a lot of people in our community.

“As the ABC reported – it essentially imposes a gap payment on Canberrans – whether they access healthcare or not, and no matter their income.

“Many Canberrans are already struggling, and even those on decent incomes are feeling the pinch.

“The irony is that this additional levy might be the difference between someone being able to buy essential medicine or healthy food – both key to maintaining good health, in order to fork out for the Government’s health bill.

“A good Budget raises revenue from those who can afford it, like big corporations, before passing the bill on to everyday people.

“The Greens put forward a proposal for a Big Corporations Tax that would introduce a new, higher tax threshold for big corporations like the supermarkets, banks and airlines.

“Companies that operate in our city and make billions in profits, like Qantas and Wesfarmers, should be paying their fair share of tax. But instead, they’re raking in massive profits while Canberrans struggle with the cost of living.

“Not only is a Big Corporations Tax a significantly fairer way to generate revenue, it also generates more than double the amount the government will receive from every day Canberrans through the proposed health levy.

“So the ACT Greens will not be supporting the $250 levy in the Appropriation Bill and we call on the Government to go back to the drawing board and come up with something fairer.

“The Greens recognise that we need to raise enough revenue to deliver the services that our community needs, but this is not the way to do it,” said Mr Rattenbury.

A link to the ACT Greens Budget Reply Speech can be found here: Budget Reply Speech 2025

Minns Labor Government invests in new Service NSW Centre for South West Sydney

The Minns Labor Government is investing $13.6 million over four years to design and deliver a state-of-the-art Service NSW Centre in South West Sydney’s Campbelltown as part of the 2025-26 Budget.

As part of this Government’s comprehensive plan to build better essential services, the new Service Centre will provide South West Sydney locals with improved access to 1,300 government transactions and essential services in one convenient location.

Campbelltown is one of the fastest-growing local government areas in South West Sydney with a population of more than 175,000. This investment from the Minns Labor Government will make it easier for local families to access services they need as the region continues to expand.

Once opened, the Campbelltown Service Centre increases the number of centres to 119 across NSW, including two driver testing locations.

Campbelltown Service Centre will provide another option for Ambarvale, Appin, Bradbury, Leumeah and Menangle Park locals, complementing existing centres in Edmondson Park and Gregory Hills.

Around 100,000 customer visits are expected at Campbelltown Service Centre in its first 12 months of operation, improving essential service access for this rapidly growing and diverse community.

Service NSW is working with Property and Development NSW to find a suitable location for the new centre, ensuring it is accessible and convenient for the Campbelltown community.

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:

“With more than 6.6 million customer visits across NSW last year, investing in new and improved Service Centres helps ensure access for those who need the essential services they provide.

“As South West Sydney’s population grows, we’re seeing increasing demand for government services and transactions from the local community.

“This investment by the Minns Labor Government will provide the services people rely on, whether they are looking for cost of living support, applying for a Seniors Card, or requesting personalised business advice through the Service NSW Business Bureau.”

Member for Campbelltown Greg Warren said:

“I fought and opposed the Liberal National government’s shortsighted decision to close our former Campbelltown centre and promised the community I’d bring this essential service back.

“I’m so proud Campbelltown is getting what we need and deserve for our growing area, and the broader Macarthur community.

“I acknowledge everyone in our community I’ve fought with to return this critical service to Campbelltown.”

New Commissioner appointed to lead NSW Rural Fire Service

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib has appointed a new Commissioner, Trent Curtin, to lead the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS).

The RFS is the lead emergency service agency in NSW for bushfires, providing support for communities through its 70,000 volunteer members across a network of almost 2,000 brigades.

The RFS also provides fire and emergency services to protect homes, attend motor vehicle incidents and during search and rescue operations. The RFS works closely with other emergency services in responding to emergencies and natural disasters including recent events like Cyclone Alfred and the mid-north coast floods.

Mr Curtin commenced his career 30 years ago as a volunteer firefighter with the Country Fire Authority in Victoria and has served in senior leadership roles in the emergency services in both Victoria and NSW. These roles included Acting Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner at Fire and Rescue NSW with responsibility for Community Fire Unit volunteers. He also served as Assistant Chief Fire Officer at Fire Rescue Victoria between 2015 and 2020.

Mr Curtin has extensive experience battling major fires, floods and coordinating large-scale responses involving multiple agencies to significant emergency incidents.

The incoming Commissioner will also bring to the RFS a strong track record in crisis management, organisational strategy and a lifelong commitment to safety. He joins the RFS from SafeWork NSW where, as head of SafeWork, he led efforts to reestablish the agency as a strong and independent work health and safety regulator.

The appointment follows a competitive recruitment process undertaken by the Department of Communities and Justice. Mr Curtin will take up his role as Commissioner from Monday, 14 July 2025.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:

“I am pleased to announce Trent Curtin will be the new Commissioner of the NSW RFS.

“Mr Curtin has extensive experience as an emergency services leader in NSW and Victoria, where he has been involved in managing significant fires and large-scale natural disasters and working with volunteers.

“RFS volunteers are at the forefront of the State’s natural disaster response. From the 2019-20 bushfires to more recent flood events, they are a reassuring presence for communities in need.

“Mr Curtin started his firefighting career 30 years ago as a volunteer and I look forward to working with him as he brings his emergency service expertise to an organisation at the frontline of bushfire response.

“I thank the outgoing Commissioner Rob Rogers who will finish in the role on 4 July for his four decades of service to NSW communities.”

Incoming Commissioner for NSW RFS Trent Curtin said:

“Having spent most of my life as a firefighter, I am honoured to be appointed Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service and to work alongside the committed volunteers and staff who represent the very best of community spirit.

“The RFS plays a vital role in our communities, responding in the most difficult circumstances to help others in their time of need.

“I look forward to honouring the legacy of the RFS as a community-centred agency, while ensuring we remain ready to meet the challenge of more frequent and intense natural disasters.”

Contract awarded for the Powerhouse Museum Ultimo Revitalisation

The Minns Labor Government is taking the next step in the heritage revitalisation of the Powerhouse Museum in Ultimo, confirming Richard Crookes Constructions has been awarded the main works contract to deliver the $300 million renewal of the Ultimo site.

Richard Crookes Constructions was selected through a competitive tender process and have extensive experience delivering complex cultural infrastructure projects for the NSW Government – including Naala Badu (Sydney Modern) and the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct revitalisation.

During construction, the Powerhouse Museum Ultimo Revitalisation project will create around 750 jobs, and inject $225 million into the local economy.

Infrastructure NSW, who are responsible for delivery of the project, and the Powerhouse Museum collaborated with award-winning architects Durbach Block Jaggers, Architectus, Tyrell Studio and Youssofzay + Hart to reimagine and renew the iconic 146-year-old cultural institution.

Key features of the new design include:

Conservation and restoration: Preserving the heritage-listed Power Station buildings for ongoing adaptive reuse by the Powerhouse Museum.
New and improved exhibition spaces: Designed to meet international museum standards for exhibitions across the applied arts and sciences, exhibition spaces will increase to 7,500sqm, (up from 6,850sqm)
Reorientation: Aligning the museum to face The Goods Line, enhancing connections with the Sydney CBD, including easier access to the Museum from major public transport options. The new entrance will reveal the heritage facades of the original power station built in 1899 and the 1902 Turbine Hall.
Activation of the Harris Street façade: Enhancing the museum’s contribution to the Ultimo streetscape, including subsidised workspaces for NSW practitioners across the applied arts and sciences, and a community meeting space.
Central circulation system: Establishing an intuitive and accessible circulation system to support a high-quality visitor experience.
Reimagined public domain: Delivering a 2,000sqm public space at the northern end of The Goods Line, a landscaped courtyard adjacent to the former Ultimo Post Office, and an internal courtyard accessible from Macarthur Street.

During the tender process, all three contractors advised that parts of the Wran and Galleria buildings’ internal steel structure are unsafe, with design of steel structures, load capability, fabrication and erection found to be non-compliant with the National Construction Code if retained. As such the internal steel structures will need to be disassembled and replaced to ensure the safety of construction workers on site and the long-term structural integrity of the buildings.

Following feedback, a modification to the development’s approval will be lodged with the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure next week which will include allowing for the dismantling and replacement of the Wran and Galleria building’s non-compliant internal steel structures, while continuing to maintain the heritage requirements of the built form.

These modifications are covered within the existing budget.

Site preparation works, approved under the State Significant Development Application, continue to be carried out with main works construction expected to take up to three years.

The 1899 Ultimo Tram Depot (The Harwood Building) will continue to be used for museum operations including conservation laboratories, workshops and staff offices.

Following the conclusion of the revitalisation, the Powerhouse Museum in Ultimo will continue to exhibit its iconic objects from the collection, including the Boulton & Watt Steam Engine, the Catalina flying boat Frigate Bird II and Locomotive Number 1.

For more information visit the Powerhouse Ultimo website.

Minister for Jobs and Tourism and Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“We are confident Richard Crookes Constructions, with their extensive experience and proven track record in delivering complex heritage revitalisations and renowned Sydney cultural institutions, is the perfect choice for this project.

“The Minns Labor Government committed to preserving and enhancing this iconic institution for future generations and confident this revitalisation will deliver the best and safest outcome for the museum and the passionate community of visitors who eagerly await its completion.

“Importantly the shape and scale of the iconic Wran and Galleria buildings will be safely replaced and future-proofed, so they can be enjoyed by visitors and the community for decades to come.

“Keeping the structures is not only unsafe and non-compliant, it would cost the taxpayer more and give a limited warranty on the buildings, which isn’t justifiable given the end product will look the same.”

Minister for the Arts and Minister for Music and Nighttime Economy John Graham said:

“As custodians of one of the largest and most exceptional collections of objects in Australia, the Powerhouse Museum plays an important role in bringing the arts, design, science and technology and their history together.

“That is why the Minns Labor Government is investing in the heritage revitalisation, to secure the future of the Powerhouse Museum in Ultimo, and make sure the museum is equipped with a range of exhibition spaces to meet international standards and showcase the Powerhouse Collection to its fullest potential.

“We always maintained we will preserve the Wran legacy with this project, and that is why some materials in the Wran and Galleria buildings will be replaced and rebuilt, to ensure a long future for these buildings.”