Month: July 2025

Jewish Council Rejects Special Envoy’s antisemitism plan

The Jewish Council of Australia has today warned that the newly released Special Envoy’s Plan to Combat Antisemitism risks undermining Australia’s democratic freedoms, inflaming community divisions, and entrenching selective approaches to racism that serve political agendas. The report is riddled with misinformation and claims about nefarious funding sources for protests and universities that verge on conspiracy theory. The Council is especially concerned about the plan’s strong endorsement of the widely discredited IHRA definition of antisemitism, which has been used to silence legitimate criticism of Israel and Zionism.  The Council criticised the plan’s emphasis on surveillance, censorship, and punitive control over the funding of cultural and educational institutions: measures straight out of Trump’s authoritarian playbook. We caution that some of the reccommendations including new visa powers and judicial inquiries into student activity — risk censoring criticism of Israel, deepening racism, and failing to meaningfully address the root causes of antisemitism. The Council is calling on the government to: Ground its response in anti-racist principles that include tackling Islamophobia, anti-Palestinian racism, racism against First Nations people and all other forms of racism;
 Engage a broad spectrum of Jewish voices, including those critical of Israel, who have not been consulted in the development of this plan;
 Reject authoritarian proposals that erode civil liberties under the false guise of Jewish safety.
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Dr Max Kaiser,  Executive Officer, Jewish Council of Australia “This document reads more like a blueprint for silencing dissent rather than a strategy to build inclusion. The report’s vague language around ‘antisemitic narratives’ or ‘affiliations’ , coupled with its emphasis on the discredited IHRA definition of antisemitism, make the actions recommended dangerously unclear. Consistent with her past statements erroneously linking antisemitic attacks with Palestine solidarity protests, Segal seems fixated on driving a pro-Israel narrative and repressing legitimate criticism of Israel’s genocide in Gaza. 
 Antisemitism is real and must be taken seriously. But it does not exist in a vacuum. Any response that treats antisemitism as exceptional, while ignoring Islamophobia, anti-Palestinian racism, and other forms of hate, is doomed to fail.”

Netball NSW First Nations Team – The Waradas – Ready to Rise

Ten outstanding athletes have been selected to represent their state as members of the Netball NSW First Nations Team – the Waradas – to compete at the 2025 First Nations Netball Tournament.

Returning for the second year, the Netball NSW Waradas will showcase a formidable blend of experience and emerging talent, with eight players backing up from the 2024 tournament. Two exciting debutants-Lily-Louise Walker (Wayilwan & Wiradjuri) and Phoebe Hickson (Dunghutti/Wurundjeri)-will join the squad and bring fresh energy and ambition to the court.

Coach Colleen Mitchell, a proud Worimi woman, is thrilled with the calibre and cohesion of this year’s team.

“This netball group is strong, skilful and fiercely proud. The returning athletes have grown in confidence and leadership, and our two new players fit in seamlessly. I’m so excited to see what we can achieve together-we’re not just representing our culture, we will build on it with every pass, every game,” Mitchell said.

In the shooting circle, Dharawal goal shooter Charlotte Ryan will team up with Wiradjuri’s Jayda Grant (GA/WA) and Kamilaroi/Gamilaroi’s Mia Evans (GA/WA) to provide firepower up front.

Midcourt will be patrolled by Acacia Elers (WD/WA) Worimi/Awabakal, Ellie Stacey (WA/C) Wonnarua, Tahlia Robertson (C/WD) Whadjuk, and Lily-Louise Walker (C/WA) Wayilwan/Wiradjuri, providing speed, skill and composure through the middle.

In defence, Jaylah Boney (GK/GD) Ngemba/Barkandji, Alirah Watton (GD/GK) Gamilaroi, and Phoebe Hickson (GK/GD) Dunghutti/Wurundjeri will stand tall and strong to repel opposition attacks.

All ten athletes are proud graduates of the Netball NSW First Nations Emerging Talent Program-an emerging development initiative designed to support athletes from metropolitan, regional and First Nations communities. Through the program, players receive individual on court technical and tactical netball skills, while also building vital off-court foundations in areas such as women’s health, nutrition and high performance behaviours.

Now in its second year, the First Nations National Netball Tournament has grown into a five-day celebration of Indigenous excellence in netball, bringing together the most talented First Nations players from across the country in a full round-robin competition format.

Mardi Aplin, General Manager – Performance & Pathways at Netball NSW, said the tournament’s growth highlights its importance to the future of the sport.

“Launched in 2024, the tournament marked a historic milestone in Australian netball, offering a national platform to showcase Indigenous talent and accelerate the development of future stars. We’re proud to continue our commitment to this important program.”

That commitment is already yielding results. Following standout performances in 2024, three NSW athletes-Acacia Elers, Jayda Grant and Jaylah Boney-were selected for the national Black Swans team and went on to compete at the 2024 Pan Pacific Tournament.

Netball NSW will also send two talented First Nations umpires-Mark Munnich (A Badge) Yawuru/Gunggandji/Yued from Northern Suburbs Netball Association and Mackenzie Knox (B Badge) a proud Kamilaroi from Narrabri Netball Association -as part of its First Nations development pathway, supporting growth and representation both on and off the court.

As part of the overall cost of sending the team to the event, a $20,000 investment from Netball NSW partner FDC will ensure that every Netball NSW athlete is fully funded to compete. The funding covers costs associated with travel, accommodation, playing kit, and high-performance support.

The 2025 First Nations National Netball Tournament will take place from 20-24 August at Jubilee Park Stadium in Frankston, Victoria.

2025 Netball NSW First Nations Team – the Waradas

Jaylah Boney, Ngemba/Barkandji, Newcastle Netball Association
Acacia Elers, Worimi, Awabakal, Newcastle Netball Association
Mia Evans, Kamilaroi/Gamilaroi, Illawarra District Netball Association
Jayda Grant, Wiradjuri, Wyong District Netball Association
Phoebe Hickson, Dunghutti/Werunjeri, Penrith District Netball Association
Tahlia Robertson, Whadjuk, Sutherland Shire Netball Association
Charlotte Ryan, Dharawal, Randwick Netball Association
Ellie Stacey, Wonnarua, Newcastle Netball Association
Lily-Louise Walker, Wayilwan & Wiradjuri, Newcastle Netball Association
Alirah Watton, Gamilaroi, Dubbo Netball Association

Coach – Colleen Mitchell, Worimi, Ku-Ring-Gai Netball Association
Assistant Coach – Kellyann Huggins, Gomeroi, Maitland Netball Association.

Umpire – Mark Munnich, Yawuru/Gunggandji/Yued, Northern Suburbs Netball Association
Umpire – Mackenzie Knox, Kamilaroi, Narrabri Netball Association

Hunter Valley Police seize over $40,000 worth of cannabis growing from shed roof

Hunter Valley Police have seized over $40,000 worth of cannabis and other illicit substances growing from a shed roof in the state’s Hunter region.

In June 2025, officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District commenced an investigation into the cultivation and supply of cannabis in the Hunter Valley area.

Following extensive investigations, police executed a search warrant at a property on Aberdare Road, Aberdare, about 8.30am yesterday (Tuesday 8 July 2025).

During the search, police located and seized over 8kg of cannabis found growing from inside a shed ceiling, 48g of methylamphetamine, 1.2g of heroin and a taser.

The estimated street value of the cannabis seized is $45,000.

Following the search police arrested a 44-year-old man before taking him to Cessnock Police Station.

He was charged with possess prohibited drug (3), possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit (3), supply prohibited drug (2), possess prohibited plant and cultivate prohibited plant.

The man was refused bail to appear before Local Bail Division Court 2 today (9 July 2025).

National disaster declaration needed for SA algal bloom

Senator Sarah Hanson-Young, Greens Senator for South Australia and spokesperson for the Environment has written to the Prime Minister to urge for a national response to the devastating South Australian algae bloom.

“For months, the coastline in South Australia has been under attack by a toxic algal bloom. So far, most of the response has been led by the local community, without any formal government support.

“Just last week we learned that senior members of the federal government were not even aware of the disaster unfolding on our beaches. This is simply not good enough.

“I have written to the Prime Minister because South Australians cannot be left to deal with this environmental disaster on our own. 

“If there were dead fish washing up on Bondi Beach every day, there would be a national outcry and response. South Australians deserve the same support from our federal government that east coast states would demand.”

“We know that this has been caused by the climate crisis, just like the extreme weather events like fires and floods. The federal government has an important role to play when it comes to managing climate change events, climate mitigation and adaptation. 

“A declaration of a national disaster is important to ensure that there are significant resources available to conduct the science that is desperately needed and support the communities and industries that are bearing the brunt of this crisis.

“Our fishing and tourism industries are being decimated by this disaster. The scientists tell us that we could be facing another 18 months with this toxic algal bloom. To protect our important industries we need a proper support package.”

Complaint of police misconduct sent to LECC for Belmore arrests

Greens MP Sue Higginson has made a formal complaint to the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) alleging misconduct by police officers involved in the arrests in Belmore on 27 June 2025, and the invocation of emergency powers in arrest documents.

The extraordinary emergency powers designed to quell riots and other situations that give rise to a serious risk to public safety are purportedly to have been invoked in justifying the arrest of Hannah Thomas, where she was significantly injured by police, at a peaceful pro Palestine community assembly. The powers were introduced following the Cronulla Riots in 2005, and can only be used after an authorisation is given by an Assistant Commissioner or above of the NSW Police. When an officer exercises these powers after being authorised, any person given the direction must be informed that the direction is to prevent or control a public disorder.

Greens MP and Spokesperson for Justice Sue Higginson said “The appearance of these emergency powers on the arrest documents for Hannah Thomas is very revealing and deeply concerning, considering that an Assistant Commissioner or above must have authorised their use and that they must have believed that a large-scale public disorder was about to take place.”

“The other possibility for these emergency powers to be mentioned, is that the NSW Police are currently engaging in reverse engineering evidence to justify the assault of an innocent member of the community – something that we call corrupt.”

“At no point over the last 10 days have any of the Police, the Premier, or the Minister for Police referred to public disorder, let alone large-scale public disorder. What we have seen instead, is a series of statements from the Premier Chris Minns and Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden that are inconsistent with the evidence from the day, evidence clearly shows that police officers acting above the law.”

“There was no evidence whatsoever to form the basis to invoke the extraordinary police community control powers, the event was intended and was in fact a small lawful gathering of people protesting about SEC Plating and the genocide taking place in Gaza.”

“The LECC is responsible for investigating complaints of misconduct against police officers, and that’s why I have written to the Commissioner of the LECC today, making a complaint to them that certain police officers have engaged in serious misconduct in relation to these arrests.”

“It is the responsibility of the Commissioner for Police to notify the LECC if they suspect serious misconduct has occurred by a police officer, but the law allows for any person to make a formal complaint as well – I have taken this step today because the evidence here points to an active attempt to reverse engineer a justification for unlawful actions by the police.”

“The criminal and civil justice processes will continue for the survivors of this incident, but the evidence of serious misconduct by some officers in the NSW Police must be investigated independently by the LECC. Without accountability, the use of extraordinary emergency powers unlawfully is a significant step towards unjustified and unlawful punishment of legitimate and genuine peaceful protest, and will have a chilling effect on our constitutional right to political expression,” Ms Higginson said.

BACKGROUND:
public disorder means a riot or other civil disturbance that gives rise to a serious risk to public safety, whether at a single location or resulting from a series of incidents in the same or different locations.

An authorisation for the exercise in a public place of the special powers conferred by this Division may be given in accordance with this Division if the police officer giving the authorisation has reasonable grounds for believing that there is a large-scale public disorder  occurring or a threat of such a disorder occurring in the near future, and is satisfied that the exercise of those powers is reasonably necessary to prevent or control the public disorder.

An authorisation may be given by the Commissioner of Police or by a Deputy or Assistant Commissioner of Police. The power conferred by this section cannot be delegated.

Greens urge end to Robodebt, two years on from Royal Commission

The Greens have called on Labor to finally end Robodebt amid growing calls from welfare organisations to fully implement the recommendations from the 2023 Royal Commission.

Two years on from the Robodebt Royal Commission report, Labor have failed to fully implement the commissioner’s recommendations, and as a result, income support recipients continue to receive cruel and potentially unlawful debt notices and payment suspensions based on automatic Robodebt-style compliance.

The Greens call follows similar calls from the Australian Council of Social Services and from Economic Justice Australia, and comes ahead of an expected report from the Commonwealth Ombudsman into the so-called Targeted Compliance Framework.

Recommendations from the Royal Commission which the government have failed to implement include a statute of limitations on the recovery of old debts, establishing a duty of care for the Department, and automatically protecting people experiencing hardship from receiving compliance notices.

Greens spokesperson for Social Services, Senator Penny Allman-Payne:

“Robodebt lives on today. It’s been two years since the Royal Commission and still Labor have refused to act on the commission’s recommendations to protect income recipients.”

“Labor continues to aggressively target income support recipients using questionable and potentially unlawful automated debt collection practices that can see people lose access to income support payments that are already below the poverty line.”

“We know people are still being flogged with ridiculous debt notices for supposed issues dating back to the 1970s, and the government still has no protections in place to prevent individuals already experiencing severe hardship from being further punished.”

“Fully implementing these recommendations is the least that Labor could do to correct this cruel system which treats welfare recipients as suspects.”

“The Greens are calling on Labor to implement the Robodebt Royal Commission’s recommendations in full now, and we’ll continue to fight to restore the Commonwealth Employment Service and bring an end to the punitive mutual obligations system.”

From words to welding bays: TAFE NSW Tamworth celebrates culture and skills investment

TAFE NSW Tamworth is embracing NAIDOC Week 2025 with a dual investment in culture and skills, as the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to rebuilding TAFE NSW delivers both infrastructure upgrades and the long-awaited return of Aboriginal language training to the region.

After more than five years, the Certificate I in Aboriginal Languages for Everyday Use will be offered at TAFE NSW Tamworth, Quirindi, and Gunnedah, reconnecting local Aboriginal communities with language, identity, and intergenerational learning.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to supporting Aboriginal communities to reawaken and claim languages. Language means everything to communities who have kept their languages alive despite significant barriers, and this inclusion helps ensure they are preserved for the future.

At the same time, the Tamworth campus has undergone an $850,000 upgrade, including an expansion of the welding fabrication bays and significant toilet renovations to improve student amenities and inclusivity in trades training.

The welding upgrade, valued at around $350,000, will accommodate more students in high-demand trades, while the $500,000 toilet upgrade delivers code-compliant and inclusive facilities, including female amenities in a previously male-dominated training area.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said:

“The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its promise to rebuild TAFE NSW as a high-quality, inclusive and community-focused public education provider – right across regional NSW.

“This is Rebuilding TAFE in action. Upgrading infrastructure, restoring vital training, and making campuses more inclusive for every student.

“Through the new TAFE NSW Charter, we’re ensuring TAFE NSW remains a strong, publicly owned provider that meets the needs of its communities.

“Whether it’s expanding access to trade skills or reviving Aboriginal language training, we’re delivering on our commitment to make TAFE NSW a place where culture, opportunity and community come together.

The announcements reflect the 2025 NAIDOC Week theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy”, with the return of Aboriginal language training helping preserve and celebrate cultural identity, while the campus upgrades support inclusive, future-focused learning environments for all students.”

Tweed to host Minns Labor Government Community Cabinet

Premier Chris Minns and NSW Government Ministers will head to the Tweed in the state’s Northern Rivers for the Minns Labor Government’s next Community Cabinet.

Community Cabinet provides valuable insights into the diverse needs and opportunities for the different regions across NSW and connects communities with the state’s decision-makers.

The Premier and Ministers will engage with community members and organisations and host a community forum on Wednesday 30 July.

The community forum will include an opportunity for community members to ask questions to the NSW Premier and Cabinet Ministers and raise matters of importance in the Tweed region.

This will be the Minns Labor Government’s third Community Cabinet of 2025 and eighth since forming Government, as they continue work to build a better New South Wales informed by local voices.

Community Cabinets have also been held on the South Coast and the Central Coast as well as in Broken Hill, Orange, Riverstone, East Hills and Penrith.

Community Q&A Forum

The Premier, will be joined by NSW Ministers for a Community Q&A, giving members of the community an opportunity to directly engage with the NSW Government about local matters of importance.

WHERE: Twin Towns Clubs and Resorts, Level 5, 2 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads.

WHEN: 12:00pm-1:15pm, Wednesday 30 July 2025.

NOTE: Registration is required to attend this event.

Members of the community can register by visiting nsw.gov.au/communitycabinet or phoning, 02 9228 5188.

Media can register by emailing bess.graham@premier.nsw.gov.au

Registration is free and closes on Monday 28 July. Pre-registration is required as places are limited.

NSW Premier, Chris Minns said:

“The North Coast, including Tweed Heads have faced a difficult few years, from historic floods, to Cyclone Alfred as well as the threat of fire ants along the Queensland boarder – it is not an exaggeration to say this part of our state is home to some of the most resilient communities in our country.

“Community Cabinets are vital in our work to ensure we deliver solutions informed by local voices, I’m looking forward to hearing firsthand about the opportunities and challenges that are front of mind on the ground.

“I’ve made multiple visits to the region over the past two years, but coming for Community Cabinet is special because it’s not about one or two major issues of the day: it’s about hearing everything.

“Flood preparedness and recovery is high on our radar, and we want to know how that’s tracking, but we also want to ensure we have a deep understanding of all issues that and opportunities that affect the region.”

Minister for the North Coast, Janelle Saffin said:

“I’m pleased to be bringing Community Cabinet to the Tweed to continue strengthening the connection between the government and our passionate residents.

“This event is a chance for the Tweed community to meet with government leaders and help them better understand the challenges, benefits and way of life up here in Tweed.

“Our residents and businesses experience unique circumstances, particularly as a border community, and it’s important for government decisions to reflect and respect those experiences.

“I strongly encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity to meet with the Premier and Ministers and share their perspectives, ensuring their priorities are heard and recognised.”

Nominations open to celebrate women in local government

The NSW Government is encouraging nominations for the 2025 Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government, which recognise the achievements of talented and inspirational women in councils across NSW.

The 18th annual Awards will be presented on Thursday, 23 October during a ceremony at NSW Parliament House, co-hosted by Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig and Minister for Women Jodie Harrison.

The Awards celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of women working and serving in local government, along with successful council programs aimed at supporting female participation.

Nominations are now open for awards covering both metropolitan and rural/regional areas:

  • Alternative Pathways Award – a female staff member who is breaking down gender stereotypes
  • Champion of Change Award – a general manager or senior manager who has excelled in supporting and encouraging women’s participation at their council
  • Elected Representative Award – a female councillor who has advanced the position of female elected representatives
  • Employment Diversity Award –a council with a successful program that increases female representation in senior leadership or elected representative roles
  • Woman of Distinction Award – a woman who has demonstrated exceptional innovation, integrity and initiative, or who has a positive influence on others
  • Young Achiever’s Award – an outstanding female staff member (including trainees and apprentices) aged 25 and under
  • Councillor Lilliane Brady OAM Award – winner determined by the Minister for Local Government, to recognise and honour the dedication and tireless work of a female council staff member or elected representative (nominations not required)

Nominations close on Tuesday 19 August and can be made on the Office of Local Government website: https://www.olg.nsw.gov.au/our-minister/ministers-awards-for-women-in-local-government/

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said:

“One of the great joys of being Minister is visiting councils across NSW, meeting the many talented women dedicated to making their local community a better place to live and work. 

“These awards highlight their outstanding achievements, as well as showcase the innovative council programs that support the participation of women in local government.

“I encourage everyone working alongside talented and inspirational women to make a nomination and give them the recognition they deserve.”

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

“Women make exceptional contributions to councils across NSW and these awards are an opportunity to shine a spotlight on those achievements.

“Having worked and served in local government I know there are many wonderful women who contribute to their local community through their involvement in councils.

“It’s important to highlight women’s accomplishments and support female participation in councils to inspire the next generation of local government leaders.”

Lights a step closer as construction kicks off on Central Coast Highway with Tumbi road intersection upgrade

Safer, more reliable journeys are on the way for motorists who use the Central Coast Highway, with main construction works starting to upgrade the Central Coast Highway-Tumbi Road intersection.

The Albanese and Minns Labor governments are joining forces to deliver a $65.5 million upgrade that will significantly improve journeys for Central Coast motorists and the 26,000 vehicles using this stretch daily.

The transformation will slash travel times, improve safety, and boost the local economy with 125 construction jobs supported throughout the build.

This major investment will be split among the two governments, with the Albanese Government contributing $52.4 million, and the New South Wales Government investing $13.1 million.

Work has officially begun to replace the existing roundabout with modern traffic lights and expand the highway to two lanes in each direction, to the project boundary. This upgrade will address the notorious bottleneck and improve traffic flow and safety on the Central Coast Highway between Wamberal and Bateau Bay.

Key project features

The comprehensive upgrade includes:

  • Traffic lights replacing the roundabout
  • Highway widening to two lanes each way north of the intersection
  • Two right-turn lanes from Tumbi Road onto the highway
  • A right turn lane onto Tumbi Road from the Central Coast Highway southbound
  • Extended left-turn capacity into Tumbi Road
  • Upgraded footpaths and cycling infrastructure
  • Relocated bus stops for better passenger access, with two existing northbound bus stops moved to a common location north of the intersection

Timeline and consultation

Following extensive community consultation in 2021-2022 and preparatory works in 2023, Daracon Pty Ltd was awarded the construction contract in March 2025. The project is expected to be completed in 2027, weather permitting.

More information can be accessed here.

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

“Endless queues down Tumbi Road will soon be a thing of the past as the Australian Government and the NSW Government work together to upgrade the Tumbi Road intersection.

“This upgrade will make the intersection safer, reduce delays and improve traffic flow. Traffic lights will also give NSW traffic controllers the ability to make changes to the timing and sequencing of lights to maintain traffic flow even in the busiest holiday periods.”

Federal Member for Dobell Emma McBride:

“The Tumbi Road roundabout is a known bottleneck and I’m delighted to see work start to address this long-standing issue.

“Replacing the roundabout with traffic lights will help better manage traffic flows, reducing congestion and cutting travel times.

NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison:

“It’s fantastic to see work start to upgrade the Tumbi Road intersection, which is one of the most congested on the Central Coast Highway.

“This upgrade will improve journey times and reliability for the 26,000 motorists who use this section of road every day.

“This day has been a long time coming and I’m delighted to be part of a Labor government that is delivering for the people of the Central Coast.”

NSW Minister for the Central Coast David Harris:

“This upgrade will benefit all local road users, whether they are driving, walking, riding or using public transport.

“This work will make journeys safer and quicker, which is good news for residents, local businesses and transport operators.

“It’s good news for the local economy too, with the project to create about 125 jobs throughout the construction phase.”

State Member for The Entrance David Mehan:

“This is a critical upgrade for communities across the Central Coast because the Central Coast Highway is a key regional link.

“It is absolutely fantastic see this work getting underway.

“All road users can look forward to reduced congestion and more reliable journeys.”