Month: July 2025

The Minns Labor Government is partnering with the Ricky Stuart Foundation to deliver the John Fordham House in South Jerrabomberra, a new best practice accommodation home for people living with a disability.

$5.14 million is being invested as part of the Government’s ongoing work to build a better New South Wales, with greater opportunities, inclusion and understanding of peoples living with a disability.

The House will be made up of private living spaces with indoor and outdoor areas including a breakout room, kitchen, living, dining, courtyard and a carers office with live in facilities.

The home will include design features that ensure an accessible home including wider corridors, and will be completed with fittings, fixtures and finishes specifically designed to ensure safety.

Residents will be encouraged to engage in their local community and grow their networks by participating in local events, sports, social activities and by working locally.

The project will be led by the Ricky Stuart Foundation which has demonstrated experience in the design, development and delivery of disability accommodation and support projects, having constructed Ricky Stuart House in 2016 and Emma Ruby House in 2018, providing local families with access to state-of-the-art disability respite care and accommodation.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to making NSW a more inclusive and accessible place for people with disability. As part of this commitment, the Government last year announced the largest investment in accessible housing in the state’s history — a $5.1 billion package to deliver 8,400 new social homes, all of which will meet National accessibility standards.

The Ricky Stuart Foundation was created in 2011 by former Kangaroos and NSW Blues halfback and now Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart and his wife Kaylie.

Following their daughter Emma’s autism diagnosis at age 11, Ricky and Kaylie became aware of the lack of awareness, services and support for families in similar situations. Having experienced firsthand the challenges of raising a child with autism, Ricky and Kaylie knew more needed to be done to support local families.

The project has been named in honour of Ricky’s mentor and manager, the late John Fordham, who is remembered for his legacy of dedication across many charities including the establishment of the Head and Neck Foundation and work with the Cauliflower Club.

For more information, go to: www.rickystuart.org

Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“This is a fantastic initiative which will help improve quality of life and economic independence for people living with disability.

“The home will provide inclusive accommodation to help residents build skills, independence and social connection as well as much-needed peace of mind for families worried about safety and security for their loved ones.”

Minister for Disability Inclusion, Kate Washington said:

“Everyone deserves a place to call home — a home that supports independence, inclusion and connection. This project is a great example of how we can create spaces that truly reflect the needs of people with disability and help them thrive in their communities.

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to building a more inclusive NSW, where people with disability are supported not only to live well, but to belong.”

Local Member for Monaro, Steve Whan said:

This is such a fantastic project for South Jerrabomberra, and I know it will mean a lot to many local families. Everyone deserves to feel safe, supported and connected with their community, and that is exactly what John Fordham House will offer to those who access the facility.

I’ve seen the difference that the Ricky Stuart Foundation has made through its other accommodations, and I’m proud to see that kind of care and commitment coming to our region.

John Fordham House will give families peace of mind, knowing their loved ones have access to the right support in a caring space that has been designed with care and dignity at front of mind. I’m thrilled that the NSW Government is backing this important work.”

Chairperson and Founder of Ricky Stuart Foundation, Ricky Stuart said:

“Emma’s journey to independent living has taught us so much about what young people need to thrive. John Fordham House is built on that experience. It will give others the same opportunity, a safe and supportive home where they can grow, feel proud of who they are and be part of their local community.”

“The $5.14 million commitment from the NSW Government means we can get on with delivering the promise we made to local families. This is about more than building a home. We are creating a blueprint for supported living that puts dignity, inclusion and community at the centre. I’m proud we’re doing that right here in Queanbeyan.”

The Albanese and Minns Labor Governments are creating safer communities for women and children impacted by domestic and family violence by boosting access to an early intervention program which aims to build resilience in families and stop the cycle of abuse.

Under the National Partnership Agreement for Family, Domestric and Sexual Violence Responses 2021-30, stage two of the Safe and Strong Families program will be delivered in an additional 16 sites, with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) providing culturally safe services in ten locations across New South Wales.

Stage one rolled out in late 2024 with 11 ACCOs delivering the program in 10 priority locations.

Funded with $13 million under the National Partnership Agreement, Safe and Strong focuses on supporting both victim-survivors of domestic and family violence and their children as victims in their own right.

The program is a crucial entry point for victim-survivors to receive early family and domestic violence support, and recognises that children who experience family violence need tailored support.

Case workers help develop personal, family and community level strengths and capacity to increase individual and family safety. This includes counselling, education and skills training, Indigenous social participation, information/advice/referral, intake/assessment, material aid, mentoring/peer support, and supported playgroups.

Importantly, Aboriginal-led, trauma-informed and culturally safe strategies recognise the importance of culture, connection to Country and the role of men’s and women’s business in responding to and healing from family violence.

Service providers are encouraged to work with victim-survivors and their children for as long as required to achieve positive outcomes.

Since service commencement, stage one Safe and Strong providers have supported about 77 families and 200 individual clients.

Locations for delivery of Safe and Strong were selected using domestic violence crime and child protection data, to identify areas of the highest need.

Federal Minister for Social Services Tanya Plibersek said:

“The Albanese Labor Government wants Australia’s children to grow up safe and supported in their families, communities and culture.

“Early intervention programs are key in the fight against domestic and family violence, helping to stop violence at the start. And we know the best programs are those developed by community for community.

“The next stage of the Safe and Strong program builds on existing work to address the drivers of violence and provide tailored First Nations-driven solutions and supports to victim-survivors.

“Ending domestic and family violence is going to take all of us working together with frontline services and out whole community. That’s why we’ve doubled funding for frontline services to ensure families and children experiencing violence can access the supports they need.”

NSW Minister for Families and Communities, Kate Washington said:

“Children who experience violence in their homes carry that trauma with them and without the right support, it can shape the rest of their lives.

“That’s what this program is all about — stepping in early, wrapping the right supports around children and families at risk of, or experiencing, violence; so they can recover, rebuild and thrive.

“The NSW Government is investing in programs like Safe and Strong because we want to support families to stop the cycle of abuse.”

NSW Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said:

“The Minns Labor Government recognises the need to respond to the impacts of domestic and family violence on Aboriginal people.

“We know the best way to close the gap is by Aboriginal people shaping and driving outcomes for Aboriginal people.

“Having Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations run the Safe and Strong program it ensures that women and children escaping domestic violence can receive healing in a culturaly safe space and while feeling connected to country.”

NSW Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said:

“The NSW Government recognises the urgent need to do more to meet the needs of children and young people who experience domestic and family violence and break the cycle of intergenerational violence.

“Safe and Strong Families delivers just that with its child- and family-focused approach to providing early intervention and support services that treat children as victim-survivors in their own right.

“Women and children who are impacted by violence and abuse deserve to live free from violence and the fear of violence.”

General Manager of the Youth Family and First Nation Languages Service Division at Regional Enterprise Development Institute (REDI.E) Kevin Jones says:

“As an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation with a long-standing history of delivering vital services in Walgett, REDI.E is proud to have secured the Safe and Strong Families funding to strengthen our work addressing domestic and family violence in both community and school settings.

“This funding allows us to continue working in close partnership with the Department of Communities and Justice, local Aboriginal governance groups, schools, and the broader community to create a safer, stronger future for the families of Walgett.

“Importantly, this funding will also enhance the school-based support services REDI.E already provides—ensuring culturally responsive, early intervention and support continues to be accessible for those who need it most.”

Senior Program Manager at Anglicare Sydney Lee-Anne Page said:

“Anglicare is deeply committed to supporting families, particularly those impacted by domestic and family violence.

“The Safe and Strong funding provides a vital opportunity to enhance our services and deliver targeted, compassionate, holistic support.

“Through this initiative, we aim to create safer, stronger futures for children and families across the Cumberland community.”

Support:

If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero / 000.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, call the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 for free counselling and referrals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN.

Barangaroo, Darling Harbour and The Rocks are transforming into a Winter Wonderland bursting with free fun this July.

Whether you love music, art, dance or Christmas there’s something for everyone.  

Barangaroo, has already kicked off the activity hosting Nocturne, a free four-week concert seriesat thePier Pavilion on from 6pm every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night from 26 June to 19 July.

With no tickets required people of all ages can come along to enjoy a program of world-class music performed by talented Sydney musicians under the stars at a spectacular waterfront location.

Over in Darling Harbour, the Alpine Activity Zone is stirring up a flurry of activity including craft workshops, kids karaoke and an Amazing Arctic Race where teams can complete for a trophy!

Running from 10 – 13 July kids can enjoy snow globe making and sparkly slime all in the spirit of winter fun.

The Rocks areproviding Aussies with a taste of European holiday cheer through the Christmas in July Festival. *

Between 11 – 20 July, families, friends, and lovers of Christmas will have the opportunity to stroll down a snow lane to the European themed markets to savour traditional food or purchase charming, handcrafted goods.

Joining the fun at The Rocks from 17 – 20 July is the Bastille Festival. *

Bringing everything from French rosé to raclette, macarons and escargot to tempt festival goers’ tastebuds alongside a slew of free entertainment including live concerts, DJs, dance classes, and more.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“Our Harbourside precincts are the place to be this July for free winter fun.

“From outdoor concerts to Christmas markets, a French cabaret and kids’ holiday activities galore there’s something for everyone.

“Don’t let the cold weather dampen your spirits, rug up and come out to Barangaroo, Darling Harbour and The Rocks to enjoy great entertainment and activities without needing to open your wallet.”

To learn more about what’s happening all year round at:

• The Rocks visit https://therocks.com/whats-on
• Barangaroo visit https://www.barangaroo.com/whats-on
• Darling Harbour visit https://www.darlingharbour.com/whats-on

* a partnered event delivered by BBR Agency. 

With bumper snowfalls and school holiday crowds flooding the Snowy Mountains, the Minns Labor Government is urging drivers to be prepared before heading to the alpine region, warning that too many are arriving under-equipped for dangerous winter road conditions.

Fresh snow and a rush of holidaymakers have driven alpine visitation to new highs this week, prompting the Minns Government to remind travellers that excitement should stay on the slopes, not on the roads.

The stark reality of inadequate preparation has been seen in recent incidents across the alpine region. One vehicle, not equipped with snow chains, slid off an icy road and became stranded in hazardous conditions. Another driver, apparently not adjusting their speed for the conditions, ended up down an embankment after losing control on mountain roads.

These incidents serve as a sobering reminder that if you’re not adequately prepared for the road conditions, it is very easy to end up in trouble when travelling to the snow. What should be a memorable family holiday could become a dangerous situation requiring emergency response.

To help ensure safer roads, the Minns Government has ramped up snow-clearing operations and implemented network management strategies to handle the spike in demand and improve road safety.

As part of the response, motorists are being encouraged to sign up for Transport’s free SMS Alert Service via the Driving in Snow webpage. The alerts notify travellers when car parks are full or when key alpine roads like Kosciuszko Road or Alpine Way are temporarily closed due to hazardous conditions.

A National Parks pass or ski lift ticket does not guarantee road access during closures, meaning public transport or the Skitube may be the only way to reach the snowfields during peak days.

The Government’s popular Snowy Mountains Bus Service is experiencing record-breaking demand, with a 30% increase in passenger numbers compared to this time in 2024.

So far this year, more than 28,000 trips have been made on services connecting Cooma, Berridale, Jindabyne, Perisher, Thredbo, and Bullocks Flat.

More than 3,000 journeys were recorded during the first weekend of the NSW school holidays alone – a surge that has prompted additional peak services every 30 minutes between Jindabyne and Perisher to meet demand.

NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“It’s fantastic to see so many people enjoying our beautiful alpine region, but good snow doesn’t mean good driving conditions. We want the thrills to stay on the slopes, not on icy roads.

“The Minns Labor Government is continuing to invest in transport solutions that prioritise public safety and make it easier for families and visitors to enjoy NSW’s world-class winter destinations.

“The Snowy Mountains Bus Service is making a real difference, especially for people without four-wheel drives or experience fitting snow chains. And fewer cars on the road helps keep those key routes open for everyone.

“Our bus services are playing a crucial role in keeping roads safe and resorts accessible.

“My advice to drivers is to plan ahead, sign up for alerts, and consider public transport, so the only drama you face this snow season is picking between Perisher and Thredbo.”