Month: June 2025

Sold-Out Sydney Derby Set to Showcase the Best of Netball

More than 10,000 passionate netball fans will pour into Ken Rosewall Arena on Sunday 22 June, to witness one of the most anticipated matchups of the Suncorp Super Netball season – the second NSW Derby of the year between the NSW Swifts and GIANTS Netball.

Fast becoming one of the standout events on the NSW sports calendar, the Round 12 clash has officially sold out, with all tickets snapped up weeks in advance. It’s yet another sign of the incredible momentum behind Australia’s No.1 female sports league, and the undeniable pulling power of elite women’s netball in NSW.

This Derby comes as netball continues to confirm its place as the leading female sport, following a record-breaking 2024 Suncorp Super Netball season that saw a 25% surge in national attendance. In 2025, Round 1 alone attracted a record 22,369 fans nationally, an 8% increase on the 2024 Round 1 figure, which had set the previous benchmark just a year earlier.

The NSW Derby has quickly grown into a marquee moment for women’s sport, and the early sellout is a powerful reflection of the league’s growing influence. From young aspiring athletes in the crowd to household names on court, this fixture shines a spotlight on the strength and reach of netball in New South Wales.

“The Sydney Derby is a true celebration of women’s sport and the strength of netball in New South Wales,” said Tracey Scott, CEO of Netball NSW.

“To see Ken Rosewall Arena sold out more than a week in advance is a testament to the passion of our fans and the incredible athletes who inspire them. It’s moments like this that show just how powerful our game is and continues to be.”

Distinguished parliamentarians and VIPs will be in attendance, adding a touch of prestige to the occasion as they join thousands of fans in celebrating what’s fast becoming a must-see event in the sporting calendar. Their presence highlights the significance of the match not only within the netball community but also at a broader cultural and national level.

Sixteen of the 18 previous NSW Derby clashes between the Swifts and GIANTS have been decided by single figures or ended in a draw, including three thrilling one-goal finishes.

Both teams come into the Derby with contrasting recent form. The GIANTS have claimed back-to-back wins and are gaining momentum heading into the business end of the season. The Swifts, meanwhile, are looking to bounce back after two consecutive losses but still sit on top of the Super Netball ladder thanks to their strong start to the year.

As the fans roll into Ken Rosewall Arena on Sunday afternoon, one thing is certain – netball in NSW is on the rise, and the Derby is its main event.

Australia imposes sanctions on Russian shadow fleet vessels

The Australian Government has imposed targeted sanctions on 60 vessels linked to Russia’s shadow fleet.

This is the first time Australia has imposed sanctions against the shadow fleet.

Russia uses these vessels to circumvent international sanctions and sustain its illegal and immoral war against Ukraine.

Operating under deceptive practices, including flag-hopping, disabling tracking systems, and operating with inadequate insurance, the shadow fleet enables the illicit trade of Russian oil and other sanctioned goods.

These sanctions reinforce Australia’s consistent commitment to ensuring Russia, and those enabling its illegal invasion of Ukraine, face consequences.

Alongside those of key international partners, including Canada, the United Kingdom and the European Union, these sanctions help starve the Russian war economy of oil revenue.

Australia has imposed over 1,400 sanctions in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. We will continue to take coordinated and decisive action to protect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and disrupt Russia’s ability to fund its aggression.

Australia once again calls on Russia to immediately end this war and withdraw from Ukrainian territory. We remain steadfast in our support for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine.

Supporting More Homes and Better Infrastructure for NSW

The Minns Labor Government is taking further steps to help address the state’s housing crisis and build a better NSW, with new Budget measures that make it easier to deliver more homes—alongside the infrastructure and services communities need.

As part of the 2025-26 Budget, the Government will:

  • extend tax concessions for build-to-rent (BTR) housing developments
  • release draft guidelines to speed up the delivery of homes and infrastructure through works-in-kind agreements with developers.

These reforms are about ensuring we are building the homes NSW needs—while continuing to deliver better essential services for communities across the state.

Extending tax concessions for build-to-rent developments

To give investors long-term certainty and encourage more rental housing supply, the 2025-26 Budget will extend key tax concessions for build-to-rent developments.

Under this change owners of eligible new build-to-rent developments will now be able to access a land tax concession of a 50 per cent reduction in assessed land value indefinitely—rather than the previous 2039 end date set by the former government.

Build-to-rent developments typically make their returns to investors through providing long-term and stable rental income.

This means that build-to-rent housing may offer longer-term lease options, better security for tenants, and more housing choice for people at different life stages.

It also means that the expiry of the tax concession in 2039 is a key factor impacting investment decisions today.

This measure will improve the feasibility of build-to-rent developments, helping to unlock a steady pipeline of secure, high-quality rental homes across NSW.

It’s part of a broader strategy to deliver housing that meets the needs of today’s renters—families, key workers, and young people alike.

Ensuring new housing comes with the infrastructure people need

The Minns Labor Government is making it easier for developers to build the housing we need, along with the infrastructure we need to go with it, with the release of proposed guidelines for works-in-kind.

A works-in-kind agreement allows a developer to dedicate land for public purposes or deliver an infrastructure project, instead of paying a Housing and Productivity Contribution.

For example, rather than paying the state government a monetary contribution for the government to build a state road or school, the developer can instead provide the land for the school or build the road themselves and then hand the infrastructure over to the public authority.

This will help speed up the delivery of homes, especially in cases where critical infrastructure is required to unlock more housing, providing works-in-kind means a project can get underway faster.

The draft guideline outlines how works-in-kind proposals are evaluated, prioritised, and managed under the Housing and Productivity Contribution scheme.

The Government is inviting feedback from industry before finalising the guidelines to ensure they achieve their intent of delivering more housing and infrastructure, more quickly.

The Housing and Productivity Contribution was introduced in October 2023 as a replacement to the former Government’s ad hoc State Infrastructure Contributions.

It helps fund the delivery of state infrastructure in high-growth areas of NSW like Greater Sydney, Central Coast, Illawarra-Shoalhaven, and the Lower Hunter.

The NSW Government is also preparing Infrastructure Opportunities Plans to identify and sequence the infrastructure required to support housing and industrial land targets.

The draft Works-in-kind Guideline is on exhibition for public feedback until 17 July 2025 on the Housing and Productivity Contribution Scheme Works-in-Kind Guideline web page.

Building more homes for NSW

The Minns Labor Government is pulling every lever available to address the housing crisis.

This is all part of the Minns Government’s plan to build a better NSW with more homes and services, so young people, families, and key workers across the state have a place to call home, in the communities they choose.

We know there’s much more to do, but we’re getting on with the job of building the homes NSW needs by:

  • undertaking the most extensive rezoning in the State’s history, through the Transport Oriented Development and Low and Mid Rise policies
  • rebalancing housing to areas better serviced by existing infrastructure, through the 5-year housing targets
  • establishing the Housing Delivery Authority, which provides a faster and more certain approvals pathway for major housing developments, with over 53,000 homes already declared State Significant
  • delivering 30,000 new homes on surplus government land, including 8,400 new social housing units in the biggest housing investment in the State’s history.

The draft Works-in-kind Guideline is on exhibition for public feedback until 17 July 2025 on the Housing and Productivity Contribution Scheme Works-in-Kind Guideline web page.

Premier of NSW Chris Minns said:

“You can’t build new homes without roads, parks, and schools to match, and the community shouldn’t have to wait for them.

“Whether it’s new tax incentives, planning reforms or fast-tracking infrastructure, we’re focused on making it faster and easier to build the homes and communities NSW needs.”

Treasurer of NSW Daniel Mookhey said:

“These measures will give industry the certainty they need to build more homes, faster.

“We are making sure we build the homes we need, along with the essential infrastructure we need to go with them.

“Extending the tax incentives for build-to-rent will make it easier for developers to build, and give renters more choice.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“Local infrastructure was an afterthought with the former Liberal-National Government. We’re doing things differently, making sure homes are delivered alongside parks, roads and schools.

“The Minns Government is delivering more homes and better choices for home buyers and renters across the state.

“Works-in-kind is an important part of the mix in our provision of infrastructure. The Works-in-kind Guideline provides a clear, consistent approach to when and how it can be used.” 

Minister marks State Heritage listing of Cooma Gaol while acknowledging its challenging past

Cooma Correctional Centre has been honoured with an official plaque to recognise its inclusion on the NSW State Heritage Register.

The plaque was unveiled today by Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong, who attended the Correctional Centre for a formal ceremony.

Corrective Services NSW Commissioner Gary McCahon also attended the event, which recognised the challenging past of Cooma Gaol, a correctional facility used exclusively between 1957 and 1984 to imprison people based on their gender identity or sexual orientation.

Over these decades, gay men, transwomen, and non-binary people were incarcerated at Cooma Gaol for the crime of homosexuality, a crime that remained illegal in NSW until it was decriminalised in 1984.

The Minns Government would like to reiterate its apology to the people convicted under discriminatory laws and held in custody for no crime other than expressing their identity.

The inclusion of Cooma Correctional Centre on the NSW State Heritage Register acknowledges the Gaol’s challenging history and will ensure the physical site is preserved for generations to come.

Today, as every day, we acknowledge the struggles and the resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong:

“The inclusion of Cooma Gaol on the State Heritage Register is important because it acknowledges and preserves the history of those who were unjustly treated, for generations to come.

“On behalf of the Minns Government I reiterate our apology to those who were incarcerated unjustly due to discriminatory laws for homosexual acts. 

“I am pleased to see Cooma Correctional Centre acknowledged by the NSW State Heritage Register for the unique and challenging role it played in our state’s history. 

“In the interests of not ignoring history lest we be doomed to repeat it, let us also be clear that the history of Cooma Gaol should serve as a stark warning of the perils of discrimination.”

Member for Monaro Steve Whan:

“Despite its challenging history, Cooma Gaol has been a prominent landmark for the Cooma township for generations, serving as a visible reminder of our heritage as one of the state’s original prison towns.

“I welcome the Cooma Gaol State Heritage listing as an important recognition of the Gaol’s historical significance, while noting that the current Cooma Correctional Centre will continue to operate as a modern correctional facility for the broader Cooma community.” 

Corrective Services NSW Commissioner Gary McMahon PSM:

“It’s a momentous occasion to see Cooma Correctional Centre acknowledged by the NSW State Heritage Register. 

“It’s a prison with a varied and at times dark past that must be protected for future generations.

“It is both distressing – and perhaps almost unbelievable – that such archaic attitudes could have existed as recently as 1984, when homosexuality was decriminalised in NSW.

“I am pleased to say that in 2025, it’s a past that’s long behind us.

“Discrimination and the persecution of others for their sexuality, race, religion or any other quality, has no place in society today.

“I’m honoured to see Cooma Correctional Centre receive recognition on the NSW State Heritage Register and look forward to seeing its history protected as it continues to thrive, as a valuable and dynamic part of the Snowy-Monaro region into the future.”

Cooma Gaol Historian and Journalist Patrick Abboud:

“The practices that led to inmates being incarcerated at Cooma Gaol, and the treatment they received while they were there, had lifelong impacts for all of those involved.

“Along with the Minns Government’s formal apology for the criminalisation of homosexual acts, the NSW State Heritage acknowledgement of Cooma Gaol as a place of incarceration for gay men, transwomen, and non-binary people is a step toward healing for those former inmates still living with past traumas, and the redemption of the memory of those we have lost.”

Anzac Memorial veteran artists in residence named

Two veteran artists have received $20,000 in NSW Government funding thanks to the Anzac Memorial Veteran Artist in Residence program.

The program offers contemporary veterans with established creative practices the opportunity to engage with the Memorial and the broader community through an artwork or project.

Thanks to support from the Veterans Benevolent Fund, for the first time two residencies have been funded with veterans Hugh Semple and Warrick Young today announced as the 2025 Veteran Artists in Residence, with each awarded $10,000.

Semple, an Army veteran of the Royal Australian Corps of Transport is a watercolour painter.

What started as a therapeutic outlet, became a passion and full-time career after Semple found refuge in art to heal and find balance after medically discharging from the Army.

Young will use the residence to assist with production of a film titled Echoes of Sacrifice, which aims to bring the Memorial’s symbolism to life through poetry, music, and archival imagery.

Young’s Army career began in 1983 with a mixture of full-time and part-time service including deployment on operations, including Iraq.

Launched in 2019, the Veteran Artist in Residence program supports current veterans in their development as artists and the use of the creative process in their healing journeys. The program also recognises the strong historic connection between art and military experience.

The use of art to depict and record Australia’s involvement in war and its impact has resulted in a vast collection of trench art, paintings, music and poetry whilst also serving as an important tool in the rehabilitation and recovery of veterans that have been affected through their military career.

More information is available on the Veteran Artist in Residence web page.

Minister for Veterans David Harris said:

“I am pleased to announce the successful recipients of this year’s Anzac Memorial Veteran Artist in Residence program.

“I want to congratulate Hugh and Warwick for presenting two amazing concepts that won them selection this year.

“Art is a powerful tool whether practised as a hobby or profession, its importance to veterans can be priceless as a form or rehabilitation or a vehicle for sharing their experiences with the broader community.

“I am glad that this year’s program has enabled two veterans to use their art to share their story or to honour service to our nation.”

Hugh Semple said:

“The artist in residency for me is a way to connect back with my military roots. I will be producing a series of watercolour paintings on veterans, and their new journey after service. I will get to surround myself with Anzac spirit on a daily basis.

“Like my own story in finding purpose, I want to show the passions that other veterans have to keep them moving positively in life outside defence. I hope through this series of paintings I can inspire other veterans to take a new direction after service, that benefits their existence and gives purpose to their lives.

“After discharging most veterans feel a loss of identity. Through art, I have rebuilt who I am and now have a lasting purpose in life. I started painting a year after my medical discharge to bring purpose to my life. I was going down a road of darkness and destructive behaviour, so I decided to do something meaningful and rewarding to bring myself on track.

“Throughout the last 4 years I have had continued interest in painting and now have made a business out of it. I am proud to now call myself an artist.”

Warwick Young said:

“I’m deeply honoured and grateful for the opportunity to be one of the veterans to feature in this program. Creating a film that reflects the meaning of sacrifice at the heart of the Anzac Memorial is not just a privilege, it’s part of my own healing, and I hope it resonates with others in the veteran community too.

“I’m genuinely excited to make this film alongside fellow veterans from the Screen Warrior Program. Together we can honour the sacrifices of those who came before us, and those still serving, in a way that feels deeply personal and connects audiences across the whole state of NSW.”

Future Jobs and Investment Authority model to secure jobs and economic opportunities in coal mining communities

The Minns Labor Government is partnering with coal-producing regions across NSW to deliver on its election commitment to establish the Future Jobs and Investment Authority.

The Authority will help guide the future economic development of the four coal mining regions – the Hunter, Central West, Illawarra, and North West – from coal production towards other economic opportunities and employment.

The 2025-26 NSW Budget will include $27.3 million over four years to fund the Authority, initially focussing on the Hunter and Central West regions.

This initiative will be backed by the Future Jobs and Investment Fund to unlock more than $100 million in funding held back under the previous Liberal-National Government’s Royalties for Rejuvenation scheme.

As part of its remit, the Future Jobs and Investment Authority will develop a framework to allow the funding to be spent on projects like infrastructure and post-mining land use planning, skills mapping, feasibility assessments and training programs. This will be done in concert with the Federal Government’s Net Zero Economy Authority.

The Minns Labor Government will also continue its existing commitment to deliver $22.5 million into the fund each year.

The model of the Future Jobs and Investment Authority follows the release of a proposed structure in mid-2024, and ongoing consultation with workers, communities and industry. The final Authority model integrates much of the feedback received by the government.

The Future Jobs and Investment Authority will include:

  • Establishing a coordinating Authority to be led by a Chief Executive Officer. The Authority will have a clear mandate to deliver tangible outcomes for coal-reliant regions.
  • Establishing four local Divisions in the Hunter, Illawarra, Central West and North West to support the Authority. This will ensure direct representation to the Authority and that all decisions are informed by local needs and priorities. Local Divisions will include representatives of industry, workers, local government and community groups to ensure local voices are guiding government action.
  • Assuring accountability and governance through an advisory board reporting to the Minister for Natural Resources. The advisory board will be chaired by an independent Chair/Advocate and membership will include the chairs of each Local Division.
  • Collaborating with the Net Zero Economy Authority and the Commonwealth Government to streamline projects and strengthen delivery.
  • Enshrining the Authority in legislation, providing long-term certainty for communities.

Currently, around 25,000 people are directly employed in coal mines. While coal mining will continue for decades to come this, highlights the importance of establishing the Authority to begin planning for a future beyond coal.

The Future Jobs and Investment Authority will prioritise:

  • Facilitating strategic land use planning, land prioritisation and activation, including land previously used for mining. This will enable new and emerging employment-generating industries.
  • Driving investment attraction activities to support the development of new industries in coal-producing communities.
  • Developing new initiatives to ensure workers are equipped with necessary training to create a stable and secure future for them, their families and their communities.
  • Undertaking detailed data collection and analysis to inform the timing of impacts on workers and the economy and drive a strong evidence-based approach to government action.
  • Leading effective consultation, collaboration and partnership with local communities, and sharing that engagement across NSW Government agencies, and all three levels of government.

While coal will remain an important regional employer and economic driver for decades, global demand is forecast to decrease in coming decades. Under current planning approvals, by 2040 all four of the state’s coal-fired power stations, and 32 of the state’s 39 coal mines will close.

More information about the Future Jobs and Investment Authority is available on the Future Jobs and Investment Authority web page.

The NSW Government will legislate these changes over the coming months.

Minister for the Illawarra & the South Coast Ryan Park:

“The Future Jobs & Investment Authority will play a key role in driving job creation in this region, including in the future energy sector. The Hunter has always been the engine room of NSW – now it’s time to position ourselves as a national leader in clean energy and advanced manufacturing as well.

“We need innovative, creative job opportunities, and the Authority opens up new possibilities, setting a clear pathway for growth. The Authority will work hand-in-hand with our local communities, industry and education providers to ensure our region is at the forefront of this transformation – not left behind by it.

“This is about putting the right structures in place to support our workers today while building a stronger, more diverse economy for tomorrow. It’s about future-proofing the Hunter, ensuring that we continue to be a place of opportunity, stability and prosperity for generations to come.”

Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos:

“Thank you to workers, communities and the broader industry for their feedback as we deliver the Future Jobs and Investment Authority, a key election commitment.

“Our Future Jobs and Investment Authority will help plan for a future for our regions beyond coal. It will be a strong authority to guide government decision making. Having its work report directly to the Minister, and supported by local divisions, means voices from each region will be heard.

“We’ll be looking to the Authority to leverage its local expertise to identify and shape projects that will unlock the potential for new industrial and employment opportunities.

“Coal mining will continue to support thousands of local jobs and underpin the state’s energy grid for many years to come. As the global demand for coal decreases, we want to ensure we partner with workers, communities and regional centres to plan for the future.”

Duty MLC for Lake Macquarie Emily Suvaal:

“As I walk through my community I see and speak with so many small businesses that rely on the mining industry to provide secure jobs and economic growth.

“Mining will continue to be a massive employer to so many in the Hunter for years to come, however we must be ready for the reliance on coal to decrease.

“The establishment of the Future Jobs and Investment Authority gives everyone in mining and the supply chain time to reskill and take advantage of the new wave of opportunities coming to the Hunter.”

NSW Budget: $156 million boost to get North West Sydney road projects shovel-ready

The Minns Labor Government is teaming up with the Albanese Labor Government to get critical road projects shovel-ready in North West Sydney, signalling a major boost for one of the country’s fastest-growing regions.

A joint investment of $156 million, announced as part of the 2025-26 NSW State Budget, this funding will accelerate planning and development of critical upgrades in the booming suburbs of Blacktown, Rooty Hill, Marsden Park, Schofields and Rouse Hill.

The funding will lay the groundwork for construction projects that will help ease congestion and improve travel times – making it easier for North West families to get where they need to be, safer and faster. 

Projects include:

  • $49 million in additional funding for planning upgrades and future duplication along the Richmond Road Corridor from the M7 to The Driftway in Richmond. This takes the total investment to $74 million for one of the region’s busiest and most congested arterials (NSW and Australian Government funded)
  • $30 million towards planning the duplication and future connection of Townson and Burdekin Roads in Schofields (NSW and Australian Government funded)
  • $27 million to plan the upgrade of Garfield Road West in Marsden Park (NSW and Australian Government funded), adding to the NSW Government’s existing commitment to widen Garfield Road East
  • $25 million for enabling works for the upgrade of Toongabbie Bridge (100 per cent Australian Government funded)
  • $10 million to plan for critical road infrastructure around the future Rouse Hill Hospital (with a further $10 million from the Australian Government committed), ensuring the precinct is well connected when the hospital opens. Works include:
    • widening Windsor Road between Mile End Road and Commercial Road to three lanes plus a bus lane in each direction
    • upgrading the Windsor Road and Commercial Road, Windsor Road and Mile End Road, and Commercial Road and Caddies Boulevard intersections
    • constructing a shared path on the eastern side of Windsor Road
    • delivering new and upgraded bus infrastructure with dedicated bus lanes along Windsor Road between the existing T-way and Mile End Road.
  • $3.5 million to plan for a new Francis Road rail overpass at Rooty Hill (100 per cent NSW Government funded)
  • $1.5 million for a major congestion pinch point intersection upgrade at Flushcombe and Bungarribee Roads in Blacktown (100 per cent NSW Government funded).

The North West Sydney growth area, which will be home to around 250,000 people when complete, is one of the fastest-growing parts of Australia, with new housing, schools and hospitals placing increased demand on the road network.

Despite this growth, the former Liberal-National Government focused on mega-projects and drew lines on maps in congested suburbs without providing funding.

The Minns Labor Government and Albanese Labor Government are committing significant funding this year to ensure the next round of construction can get underway – kickstarting critical planning for North West Sydney.

This joint investment of $156 million in new funding is part of a broader roads and transport investment in the 2025–26 Budget, which focuses on ‘must-have’ infrastructure in our suburbs and regions that support liveability and growth—not vanity mega-projects.

Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“The Minns Labor Government is building better communities and are investing to get critical road projects shovel-ready. 

“Roads are essential infrastructure for the growing communities of North West Sydney and that is why we are partnering with the Albanese Government to invest $156 million to kickstart planning for a series of major arterial road projects. 

“Unlike the previous government which focused on mega-projects and ignored the suburbs, we’re investing in ‘must haves’ – congestion busting improvements to roads that are supporting fast growing suburbs.

“This is about new and widened roads, new intersections, roundabouts and safety improvements – all supporting new homes, expanding suburbs and new facilities.

“The Minns Government is stepping up with a plan to build the roads the North West needs. These projects are critical to keeping pace with growth and ensuring our communities remain liveable.”

Acting Minister for Western Sydney Courtney Houssos said:

“For too long Western Sydney families have been stuck in congested roads which haven’t kept up with development. This investment reflects the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to getting the basics right.

“Western Sydney roads have been a priority for Deputy Premier Prue Car and the Minns Government, and this boost means hardworking parents in our growing North West suburbs can get home to their families sooner.

“Our 2025-26 Budget builds on the Minns Government’s plan to build a better NSW and a better Western Sydney—delivering more homes, stronger essential services, and the infrastructure our growing communities need to thrive.”

State Member for Riverstone Warren Kirby said:

“This funding is fantastic news for Riverstone and the broader North West. Upgrades to Richmond Road, Garfield Road West, Burdekin and Townson Roads will make a real difference to daily commutes and local connectivity.

“The Riverstone community has been left behind when it comes to infrastructure and progress on these projects is long overdue. It’s great to finally have governments investing in the major road improvements we need.”

State Member for Mount Druitt Edmond Atalla said:

“Rooty Hill families know how frustrating traffic congestion can be. This investment to plan the upgrade of the Francis Road rail overpass and other local roads shows the Minns Labor Government is listening to our community and delivering the infrastructure we need.”

State Member for Blacktown Stephen Bali said:

“This is a huge win for our community. Areas like Blacktown are growing rapidly, and the intersection of Flushcombe and Bungaribee Roads is a major pinch point. This package ensures we can start the process to deliver the infrastructure our growing area needs, that was neglected for so long under the previous government.”

State Member for Prospect Hugh McDermott said:

“After years of being overlooked by the previous government, it’s great to see Prospect and the broader North West receive this critical boost, including upgrading Toongabbie Bridge. This package will help our growing communities stay connected and keep families moving safely.”

Advancing Australia’s interests at the G7 Leaders’ meeting

Over the past two days, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has met with leaders from across the world at the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Alberta, Canada.

The Prime Minister participated with other G7 invited guests in a session on the future of global energy security.

Leaders discussed the need to diversify energy sources and strengthen critical minerals supply chains.

Australia endorsed the G7 Critical Minerals Action Plan, which increases cooperation to build standards-based markets, mobilise capital and promote innovation.

This opens up the prospect of further expansion of the Australian critical minerals and rare earths industry.

Leaders also discussed how innovation in emerging technologies like AI and quantum can support productivity and economic growth.

The Prime Minister joined G7 members in endorsing the Kananaskis Wildfire Charter, which aims to build a stronger and more coordinated global approach to preventing, fighting and recovering from bushfires.

As a nation, Australia knows the complete destruction bushfires can cause.

Across the world, bushfires are becoming more severe with climate change impacting their frequency and severity.

The Australian Government welcomes the global effort to fight what can be absolutely devastating events.

Australian and Canadian firefighters travel across seas regularly to provide support during our respective fire seasons, and just this month, Australia deployed a contingent of 97 personnel to Canada to assist in combating its recent wildfires.

Prime Minister Albanese thanked Prime Minister Mark Carney for inviting Australia to his hosting of the G7 this year.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“Our participation in the G7 Leaders’ Summit reinforces Australia as a key voice in global economic affairs.

“My Government is building on the foundation we have laid over the past three years for future sustainable growth, which makes participation in economic forums like the G7 all the more important.

“I look forward to capitalising on the outcomes of the Summit, including the cooperation outlined in the Critical Minerals Action Plan, which will deliver benefits to our nation and our region.

“I am pleased Australia has been able to help our Canadian friends battle the recent wildfires – Australia has not forgotten Canada’s assistance during our Black Summer bushfire response in 2019-20.”

Australia committing to security and defence partnership with the European Union

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese today met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa and agreed to start negotiations on a Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) with the EU at the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Alberta, Canada.

The Partnership will provide a framework for current and future cooperation including in areas such as defence industry, cyber and counter-terrorism. 

Existing SDPs the EU has with other countries include cooperation on cyber, countering hybrid threats, maritime security, non-proliferation and disarmament, space and economic security.

A Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) aims to strengthen cooperation on global security challenges.

It does not have military deployment obligations.

Discussions on an SDP with the EU and renewed engagement to conclude an Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement, demonstrate strong momentum in the Australia – Europe relationship.

Negotiation of an SDP will remain separate to efforts to conclude an Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement that we are focussed on taking forward in Australia’s national interest.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“I am pleased to announce we’re stepping up our cooperation with the European Union today.

“We see how deeply connected Europe’s security and the Indo-Pacific region have become.

“I very much welcome the EU’s offer for a Security and Defence Partnership and Australia will warmly take it up and commence work immediately.

“This will open the door to joint defence procurement opportunities and will benefit both our industries and our security.

“At a time of global uncertainty, it is our collective responsibility to work together to uphold peace, security and economic prosperity.

“That is what I will continue to do every day and that has been a key take out of our work here at the G7 today.”

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen:

“In a time of rising tensions and strategic competition, trusted partners must stand together.

“Europe and Australia’s enduring friendship enters a new chapter today.

“Recognising the shared security of Europe and the Indo-Pacific, we are launching talks on a Security and Defence Partnership.

“We’re also committed to advancing free trade negotiations—because economic security matters too.”

President of the European Council Antonio Costa:

“Australia is an important partner for the European Union.

“We share the same values and a strong commitment to multilateralism and the rules-based global order.

“Europe’s and the Indo-Pacific’s regions are connected.

“Opening negotiations on a Security and Defence Partnership opens new opportunities to further strengthen our cooperation.”

Greens call for bipartisan support to make housing a human right in the Victorian Charter

Today the Victorian Greens are calling for bipartisan support to make housing a human right in the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities (the Charter).

The Victorian Greens will introduce their Human Rights and Responsibilities Amendment (Right to Housing) Bill 2025 in the Victorian Parliament this week, which adds the right to adequate housing into the Charter.

Amending the Charter would mean that future legislation and regulations, Government departments, the police and the courts would all need to comply with and uphold the right to adequate housing. Under this Bill, making housing affordable, accessible, secure and habitable would become core to government decisions around housing.

The bill also specifies that housing should be structurally sound and located to appropriate public services and employment.

The Greens are calling on the Premier, Opposition and Cross Bench to support this bill.

The bill will be first read on Tuesday and second read on Wednesday in the Legislative Council.

Victorian Greens Housing Spokesperson, Gabrielle de Vietri:

“It’s time to fundamentally change the way we think about housing – not as a commodity but as a human right. This bill would do this.

“Today we are offering something all MPs across the political spectrum can agree on – that everyone has a right to a safe and affordable home.

“Anyone who votes down this bill will need a bloody good explanation for the more than 1 million Victorians in housing stress.

“Without a home, everything falls apart. You can’t access healthcare, education or work, you lose connections to family and community. Labor should look seriously at its responsibility to make sure Victorians have this basic human right protected now and into the future.”