Greens celebrate minimum age of criminal responsibility coming into effect this week

As of this week, the ACT has become the only state or territory in Australia to raise the age of criminal responsibility fully to fourteen, diverting Canberra’s children away from the harm of gaol towards critical support services.

This reform was introduced by Leader of the ACT Greens, Shane Rattenbury when he was Attorney General in 2023, and is a clear example of the change that has been achieved with Greens in the balance of power in the Assembly.

Leader of the ACT Greens, Shane Rattenbury:

“This is a momentous week for young people, advocates for change and the government because as of Tuesday, children under the age of fourteen are no longer being diverted away from the support they need to live a fulfilling life.

“All evidence shows that children come in contact with the criminal justice system because of challenging life circumstances such as complex trauma, poverty, neglect and unaddressed mental or physical health problems.

“The reality is, punishing kids for the hardship they’ve faced only causes more harm. Because of this, we know that prison is no place for a child. At times of need, young people deserve care, safety, and support, not a jail cell.

“This reform is another clear example of the ACT Parliament, with the Greens in the balance of power, leading the nation with the kind of bold, progressive change we need to create a fairer and more just society.

“In the coming days, the Greens will be closely examining government funding for support services to make sure young people get the help they need to get their lives back on track—and aren’t being left to fall through the cracks.

“So far, we’re glad to see that vital support services like the Safer Youth Response Service have been funded to expand to 24/7 support so that young people can be diverted away from the criminal justice system at all times.

“However, the Greens have heard some concerns from stakeholders, and
as a result will be investigating in the coming weeks throughout the estimates period, to ensure the government is properly funding essential services

Greens welcome the reinstatement Khaled Sabsabi and call for board to be held accountable

“This is a victory for the artistic and wider community that had the courage to stand up to the cowardly lobbying of sections of the right wing media, conservative politicians and others whose prejudice sought to tear down a great Australian artist.

“The reinstatement of artist Khaled Sabsabi and curator Michael Dagostino as Australia’s artistic team for the Venice Biennale is a win for freedom of artistic expression but it highlights just how much of a farce this whole situation has been.

“Today’s decision is a vindication for all those who stood up for Khaled in the artistic and wider community. We have been completely vindicated and those who had the courage to stand up for Khaled should be congratulated.

“This is the right end to a very sorry saga but it’s a terrible day for the board and CEO of Creative Australia who have disgraced themselves throughout this ordeal.

“It is clear that the leadership of Creative Australia needs a clean out in order to rebuild trust within the artistic community and the Australian public.”

New operator needed to drive Beresfield Golf Course into the future

City of Newcastle is looking to ensure Beresfield Golf Course remains a sustainable and successful community asset by appointing a new operator for the popular Council-owned facility.

With the current lease set to expire on 31 August, an Expressions of Interest (EOI) campaign aims to identify new proponents to manage the recreational facility, which features a 10-hole golf course, 18-hole footgolf course, 18-hole disc golf course and mini-golf.

City of Newcastle Executive Director Corporate Services David Clarke said Beresfield Golf Course is a valued public space that brings people together for active living and social connection.

“We want to identify a new operator with the vision and capability to leverage strong local community support for the facility,” Mr Clarke said.

“City of Newcastle works hard to ensure the things we want and need are nearby and easily accessible, so it’s important to retain this facility for the community.

“We showed our commitment to Beresfield Golf Course by providing grant funding in early 2024 to create the region’s first 18-hole disc golf course. 

“Not only does the facility provide a range of different sporting options, it’s also one of the few golf courses that is dog friendly.

“We’re open to considering different approaches and models for the operation of Beresfield Golf Course.

“To ensure the EOI results in a suitable outcome, we’ve engaged an external agent to manage the leasing campaign.

“City of Newcastle will assess the submissions based on criteria such as demonstrated financial capacity, expertise in operating similar facilities, staffing plans, and a five-year business plan.

“We hope to enter into an initial five-year lease agreement with the successful proponent, a time frame that was supported by the community as part of the public exhibition of the lease.”

The EOI campaign has already attracted plenty of interest.

EOI submissions must be lodged no later than 4pm on Thursday, 10 July 2025, with the lease to commence on 1 September.

Beresfield Golf Course is located midway between Newcastle and Maitland, just a short drive from the M1 Pacific Motorway. 

The 24-hectare site also includes a Pro Shop, amenities and change rooms, a club house, greenkeepers’ workshop, a barbecue and picnic area, as well as a large car park.

More details on the EOI process can be found at www.beresfieldgolfcourselease.com.au

NSW Government delivers cost of living relief with $250 washing machines

The Minns Labor Government has introduced a scheme to provide thousands of new, energy and water-efficient washing machines at a significantly discounted price for pensioners, veterans and social housing tenants. 

Up to 8,000 eligible households can get their hands on a brand-new front-loader washing machine for $250, thanks to a program to help low-income households with cost-of-living pressures, including water and energy bills.

Eligible applicants can trade-in their old water and energy inefficient top loader machine and receive a brand-new high-end Westinghouse 8kg front loader for $250. 

The NSW Government has teamed up with The Good Guys to provide the heavily discounted machines, with the fee covering delivery, installation and a two-year warranty as well as removal and recycling of their old appliance.

Applications are now open online for all Centrelink or Department of Veterans Affairs-issued concession card holders in NSW. 

We encourage households to act quickly to snap up their machine – but advise applicants to check first if their laundry space can house the Westinghouse model, which is 850mm high, 600mm wide and 660mm deep.

To apply and check if you are eligible, please visit: Washing Machine Exchange Program.

Minister for Water Rose Jackson said: 

“This could not come at a better time, we know people are struggling with cost-of-living pressures and high water and energy bills are a huge part of that.

“We’re not just talking about cost-of-living relief, we’re delivering it. This program will lower power bills, cut water use, and make life a little bit easier for thousands of people.

“These new washing machines are not only good news to help people save, they’re better for the environment too, saving an estimated 20,000 litres of water each year.”

Minister for Veterans David Harris said: 

“This is a fantastic initiative allowing veterans, pensioners and social housing tenants to get their hands on a great appliance valued at more than $650 for just $250, including installation and removal.

“Veterans served in defence of this great land, so the least we can do to assist in lowering their energy bills.

“This is just one of the ways the NSW Government is helping people every day with cost-of-living pressures.”

Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said:

“I encourage pensioners to apply for one of these new washing machines. At a highly discounted rate, this service will take your older machine away and replace it with a new and improved model. 

“Not only will you end up with a brand-new washing machine at less than half price, it could potentially lower your utility bills, too.”  

Biag Capasso, Managing Director, The Good Guys said:

“We’re delighted to be teaming up with the NSW Government to roll out these subsidised washing machines across the state to people who need them most. It’s one of many ways The Good Guys help families with their day-to-day needs. 

“This program will be in high demand which is why we have plenty of stock, and our delivery team is ready to help customers, in both regional and metro areas, by removing old top loaders and install the new Westinghouse machines.” 

Building Commission NSW blitzes Central West

Building Commission NSW visited the Central West in early June to conduct inspections on new residential properties as part of the agency’s continued commitment to monitor building work in regional NSW.

The Central West inspection blitz saw the NSW Building Commissioner James Sherrard and a team of inspectors visit 62 sites across Dubbo, Orange, Bathurst and Blayney.

15 inspectors split their time between general building work inspections, specialist trades like plumbing, electrical, gas and air conditioning, as well as Home Building Compensation Fund (HBCF) checks.

As a result of the compliance campaign Building Commission NSW has drafted 15 Rectification Orders for a range of defects detected during the four-day blitz.

Before these orders are finalised and made public, Building Commission NSW will consider written representations from the developer or principal contractor, as required by legislation.

The blitz also saw Building Commission NSW issue 18 penalty infringement notices (PINs) valued at $13,700 for issues related to builder and certifier’s signage, unlicenced work and supervision of trades.

In addition to the PINs, Building Commission NSW inspectors issued 57 written direction notices (WDNs) for specialist electrical work.

Building Commission NSW also used its time in the Central West to conduct three council meetings and four community “drop-in” sessions providing residents the opportunity to raise building-related issues and ask questions about the regulatory process.

In Orange, Building Commission NSW partnered with the Master Builders Association (MBA) at an evening industry event where 140 attendees shared insights about construction within the region.

The regional inspection program has seen inspectors visit the Mid-North Coast, Tweed and Riverina-Murray so far this year, to ensure residential buildings outside the metro postcodes are up to par.

Including the Central West blitz, Building Commission NSW has visited 223 residential building sites, expects to issue or has issued 58 orders for building defects, and issued 72 PINs, as part of this regional push.

Building Commission NSW also plans to visit other regional locations across the State to ensure local construction sectors are working to the highest possible level. 

Minister for Building Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“Building quality is one of the top priorities of the Minns Government.

“The NSW Government is committed to lifting standards in the residential construction industry across the entire state and that includes our regions.

“The Central West inspection blitz is part of an ongoing program to ensure that homeowners, no matter where they live, can have confidence in the quality of their homes.”

Minister for Western NSW Tara Moriarty said:

“Inspecting 62 sites across Dubbo, Orange, Bathurst and Blayney, Building Commission NSW is about ensuring regional communities are confident local builders and developers are all working in accordance with building standards and regulations.

“The Central West visit didn’t just focus on enforcement, with council meetings, community “drop-in” sessions and the well-attended industry event in Orange, Building Commission NSW listened to locals and heard directly from the sector about the challenges and opportunities in the region.

“That feedback is invaluable as the Minns Government shapes its future policy and regulatory approaches.”

Member for Orange Phil Donato MP said:

“Homeowners in the electorate of Orange deserve to be confident that their home is safe and sound when they move in.

“I’m pleased that Building Commission NSW is focused on ensuring building standards in the Central West, and I look forward to the Commission continuing its inspections right across the regions in order to protect hardworking homeowners.”

NSW Building Commissioner James Sherrard said:

“On this trip to the Central West, 30 Building Commission NSW staff travelled 822 kilometres to conduct compliance inspections, engage with local councils, communities and stakeholders.

“While inspections were just a small part of what our team did in the Central West, it was still very important to check in on the local industry and ensure the building work is of good quality.

“After almost 150 interactions with tradespeople on sites across Bathurst, Orange, Dubbo and Blayney, we were pleased with the level of compliance we saw.

“But the 57 written direction notices issued for electrical work alone speak to the importance of checking in, as there is still work to be done.

“Whether it’s the Central West or the coast, homeowners deserve confidence that their home is safe and sound when they move in.

“We will continue to visit the regions to make sure our standards are being met and if not, we’ll act.”

Minns Government delivers 3.5% pay rise for community services workers

Tens of thousands of frontline community services workers will receive a 3.5 per cent pay rise as part of the Minns Labor Government’s 2025-26 Budget.

The pay rise is the result of a Budget decision to provide $122 million of additional funding to Non-Government Organisations so they can pay the increase in the minimum wage for community services workers. It follows the Fair Work Commission’s annual minimum wage determination.

Those receiving the pay rise include crisis accommodation workers, counsellors, social workers, youth workers and legal officers working for organisations with relevant NSW government contracts.

A typical community service worker is $57.29 better of per week after this year’s minimum wage decision. In total, their wages are 202.22 higher after the Minns Government’s responses to Fair Work decisions in its first three budgets. Around 80 per cent of these workers are women.

The contracts relate to services delivered on behalf of Department of Communities and Justice, NSW Health, Department of Education, Department of Customer Service and the Rental Bond Board.

The increase follows the 2025-26 Budget’s record $1.2 billion investment in the state’s child protection system. The child protection package includes a 20 per cent increase in the foster carer allowance, as well as funding for more, better trained public sector caseworkers.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to getting real wages moving, having reached multi-year agreements with more than 60 per cent of the public sector workforce and delivering real wages growth for the first time since 2019-20, after abolishing the Coalition’s unfair wages cap.

Real wages:    

  • Have grown 1.2% under the Minns Government since March 2023.
  • Fell by 1.2% under the former Liberal Government.
  • Are expected to grow by an average of 0.4% per year over the coming four years to June 2029.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey:

“We are making sure crisis workers, counsellors and youth workers get the pay rise they deserve, while their employers can get on with grappling with some of our toughest social challenges.

“As real wages begin to grow again in NSW, this $122 million funding injection will make sure real wages grow for community service workers too.”

Minister for Families and Communities Kate Washington:

“This is about supporting the people who support our communities.

“These workers provide vital support to children, families, and vulnerable people – often in times of emergency and crisis.

“This pay rise is an important step in valuing that work, because communities thrive when our frontline staff are properly supported.”

Cara Varian, CEO of the NSW Council of Social Services:

“NCOSS welcomes the NSW Government’s decision to increase funding to reflect the rising costs of delivering essential social services for communities across NSW. 

“Reliable, sustained indexation is vital to ensure social services organisations can continue to support people and communities in need.

“We look forward to working with the NSW Government to build on this step by implementing their reforms, which will provide funding certainty for the social service sector across the state, such as an evidence-based approach to calculating indexation.” 

Angus McFarland, Australian Services Union NSW and ACT Secretary:

“These workers deserve a decent pay rise to keep up with cost of living and to support their own families.

“The 3.5 per cent boost to funding of NGOs in NSW is welcomed by the ASU as the union for these workers.

“This funding injection will mean that service providers can pass on the minimum wage increase for award workers without impacting services or jobs in the industry.

“It also provides the recognition that these workers deserve for their work supporting others in our community.”

Minns Labor Government turbocharges the delivery of new schools for Sydney’s fast-growing North West

Families in Sydney’s North West are set to benefit from three new public schools and two new public preschools in Box Hill and Gables, as the Minns Labor Government continues to deliver world-class education to one of the fastest growing suburbs in the state.

Today the NSW Government is beginning construction on a new primary school and preschool in Gables and Box Hill area, and revealing the designs for a new primary school, high school and public preschool in Box Hill, while also expanding access to a temporary school in the area.

Once complete, these three schools will cater for more than 3,000 local students in The Hills, with room to grow as the local community continues to expand.

Construction underway on a new public school and preschool in Gables

Construction has officially started on a brand new public primary school and public preschool in Gables. Located at 1 Pennant Way, the new school will cater for 1,000 students.

A public preschool will also be delivered on-site, providing quality, fee-free early learning for up to 120 children per week, and allowing families with kids in preschool and school to avoid the double drop off.

Both the public primary school and public preschool will open to students for Day 1, Term 1 2027.

Designs revealed of new Box Hill permanent schools and a new public preschool

Designs are also being revealed for new permanent public schools in Box Hill – including a public preschool, primary school, and high school – all three of which will open on Day 1, Term 1 2028.

All schools and preschool will be co-located on Terry Road, Box Hill, easing the pressure of drop-off and pick-up for local families.

When opened, both the new primary and high schools will cater for 1,000 students each, with the room for the high school to expand as the student cohort grows. A public preschool will also be delivered on-site, providing quality, fee-free early learning for up to 120 children per week.

Minns Government fast-tracks public education access in Box Hill

The Minns Labor Government is also expanding access to the temporary Box Hill Public School that opened to Kindergarten to Year 2 students on Day 1, Term 1 this year.

From Day 1, Term 3 this year, it will now welcome students from Years 3 to 6, providing a world class education to even more students while their permanent school is built.

This temporary school was built by the Minns Labor Government in a record 45 days.

An additional temporary high school is also being built on the same site as the temporary primary school.

From Day 1, Term 1 2026, the temporary Box Hill High School will open for Year 7 students, and the school will grow as more classes are added in subsequent years.

Record Investment in North West schools and preschools

Box Hill and Gables was identified by the Government’s Enrolment Growth Audit as one of the top 10 areas for student growth in the state.

The former Liberal National Government failed to deliver any public schools for this area over their 12 years in government, despite student enrolments growing from 119 in 2018, to 1,445 in 2023 – a 1,114 per cent increase.

These new public schools and preschools build on the Minns Labor Government’s major investment in school infrastructure across The Hills area, with seven new and upgraded schools delivering approximately 240 new permanent classrooms and providing capacity for 5,500 students.

The projects expanding student capacity and access to public schools in The Hills area include:

  • New primary school and public preschool in Gables
  • Major upgrade at Excelsior Public School
  • Major upgrade at Rouse Hill High School
  • New Box Hill Public School and public preschool
  • New Box Hill High School
  • Major upgrade at Matthew Pearce Public School
  • Major upgrade at Castle Hill Public School

These three schools are a part of the Minns Labor Government’s record $9 billion investment in public school infrastructure across NSW over the next four years. This includes a commitment to deliver 100 public preschools by 2027, with 51 to be built in Western Sydney.

Premier Chris Minns said:

“My father was a public school teacher so I know how important world class public education is, but it starts with having local public schools built in growing communities like this.

“Thousands of families moved into this area on the promise of new schools that were never delivered by the former government – we’re delivering those schools, with construction underway and doors set to open for thousands of local kids.

“This is all part of our plan to deliver a world class education for every child in NSW by delivering new and upgraded schools and fee-free preschools while investing in our teachers through a historic pay rise that has seen a 40 per cent drop in teacher vacancies since we were elected.”

Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning, and Acting Minister for Western Sydney Courtney Houssos said:

“The Minns Labor Government, with the strong advocacy of Deputy Premier Prue Car, is committed to rebuilding public education to provide local communities with free high-quality education.

“The Liberals and Nationals failed communities right across The Hills because they didn’t properly plan for essential infrastructure like schools and hospitals that families in these growing suburbs need.

“Every child deserves access to a great local public school, and these schools are being delivered as quickly as possible for the local community who have fought hard to have their educational needs met.” 

Federal Attorney-General and Member for Greenway, Michelle Rowland said:

“I’m proud to see the first sod turned on a new public school that will become a hub for the Gables community.

“This school is not just bricks and mortar—it’s an investment in the future of our children and something this community has waited years for.

“I’m thrilled to see this project forging ahead and I look forward to seeing the finished product that will benefit families in our growing community for generations to come.”

$200,000 up for grabs to engage seniors

The Minns Labor Government is building more inclusive communities for older people by partnering with community groups and councils to host activities and events that encourage seniors to remain active, engaged and healthy.

Applications are now open for the $200,000 NSW Seniors Festival Grant Program 2026, with funding of up to $5,000 and $10,000 available for events taking place during next year’s festival taking place from 2-15 March.

The theme for 2026 is ‘Live life in colour’, to encourage seniors to celebrate new adventures and embrace creativity, new connections and an active lifestyle.

The annual festival is the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, attracting more than 500,000 people across the state to attend free and low-cost activities and events focusing on art, sport, music, entertainment, technology, travel, health, wellbeing and recreation.

This year, 35 organisations hosted events across the state that were attended by about 17,000 older people, including bush dances, art retreats, fitness classes and high teas.

The grant program offers funding of $1,500 to $5,000 for community programs and activities, and up to $10,000 for local government hosted large-scale activities.

The Seniors Festival is the Minns Labor Government’s way to celebrate our state’s seniors and thank them for their continuing contributions to our local communities. Importantly, it is a key part of our actions to build inclusive, age-friendly communities for older people, so they can stay safe, active and healthy.

Applications close on Tuesday 12 August 2025. Applicants should visit the grants program website to see past recipients understand the types of events that receive funding.

Visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/seniors-festival-grants-program/nsw-seniors-festival-grant-program-2026 to apply. Regional applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.

Minister for Seniors, Jodie Harrison said:

“There are about 1.9 million people aged 60 and over in New South Wales – or about 23 per cent of the state’s population – and they are important members of our community who should be recognised and celebrated.

“Each year the NSW Seniors Festival brings joy and laughter to thousands of our seniors. These grants help ensure that the festival extends across the state, providing opportunities for all seniors to get involved, enjoy new experiences, continue learning, and stay active and connected.

“I strongly encourage local governments and community groups – especially those in our regional areas – to apply to host events and activities for a seniors audience at next year’s Festival.”

Minns Labor Government shuts down lifeline for small business owners

The Minns Labor Government has delivered another blow to the state’s small businesses in its recent Budget by axing funding for the highly successful Service NSW Business Connect program.
 
Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said small businesses are the engine room of our economy and the backbone of local communities.
 
“They’re run by mums and dads, and young entrepreneurs giving it a go.
 
“Cutting support like Business Connect doesn’t just hurt balance sheets; it hurts jobs, confidence, and the next generation of business owners.
 
“Government should be making it easier to succeed, not harder,” Mr Speakman said.
 
Shadow Minister for Small Business Tim James said the decision to defund the program was short-sighted and deeply damaging.
 
“The Minns Labor Government has turned its back on small businesses at a time when they are grappling with soaring costs, weak consumer confidence and economic uncertainty,” Mr James said. “NSW leads the nation in number of business insolvencies.”
 
Business Connect has supported thousands of small businesses across NSW by providing up to 8 hours of free, one-on-one tailored advice that assists businesses with strategic guidance, digital marketing, financial planning, business resilience and more.

“Business Connect has delivered real and tangible assistance to small businesses, but despite positive feedback from small business on the benefits, Labor has pulled out the axe.”
 
The program is now scheduled to end on 30 September 2025.
 
“These cuts will hurt already struggling small businesses. It’s not just a cut to advice, it’s a cut to confidence, innovation and jobs,” Mr James said. “It’s a cruel irony given Labor’s record spending and growing debt.”
 
The Liberal and National Opposition is calling on the Minns Labor Government to urgently reverse this decision and commit to continuing to fund Business Connect services.
 
“Small business owners deserve better than to be abandoned by the Minns Labor Government,” Mr James said.

Check before you travel as weather impacts continue

Travellers are advised to stay across updates from emergency services and check transport apps before setting off in coastal areas lashed by heavy rain and intense winds. 

Transport for NSW Coordinator-General Howard Collins said while the weather is easing back in many areas, it remains a dynamic and changing situation for our road and public transport and for the train network people should still avoid non-essential travel.

“We’re grateful people have listened to the advice to avoid non-essential travel today, and we’ve seen a significant drop in the number of vehicles on the road and passengers on the public transport network,” Mr Collins said. 

“This has helped us with our work to provide connections and services for frontliners and essential workers who had to be on the network today. 

“Trees brought down by the combination of drenching rain and very strong winds have had the greatest impact for roads and train services over the last two days.

“Our teams were prepared, and have responded quickly to deploy replacement bus services and clear road and train lines as needed. 

“Some of this work on our train line, including damage to wiring caused by trees coming down on the line near Dora Creek will take longer to repair, and replacement bus services will likely need to continue for this section of the line into tomorrow. 

“While rain has eased off for many areas – the return of strong southerly winds along the coast afternoon and this means we could see new impacts emerging. 

“Safety is always our top priority, and as rain continues for the Illawarra and South Coast we’re urging drivers to please take extra care, drive to the conditions and never drive through floodwaters.

“This evening, and even tomorrow morning, we’re asking people to and allow extra time to get to your destination, and check for updates before you set off.  

 “Public transport passengers can jump online and check the latest timetables and disruptions transportnsw.info/alerts, and drivers can check the Live Traffic app or or visit livetraffic.com.”

CURRENT NETWORK IMPACTS

Public Transport:

  • On the T1 Western Line buses continue to replace trains between Penrith and St Marys due to overhead wire repairs at Kingswood.  Passengers can also consider catching local bus routes 770, 774, 775 and 776 between Penrith and St Marys instead.  
  • On the Central Coast & Newcastle Line, buses continue to replace trains between Wyong and Fassifern due to overhead wiring repairs at Dora Creek.
  • On the South Coast Line, trains are running at a reduced speed due to the wet weather.
  • F1 Manly ferries resumed Wednesday morning between Manly and Circular Quay. Buses had been replacing services due to the heavy swell on Tuesday.
  • Several bus routes around Sydney and the regions diverting due to flooded local roads.

Roads:

  • Road closures are currently in place for Oxford Falls Road at Oxford Falls and Audley Weir at Royal National Park.
  • There is water over the road and drivers should travel with care along the Illawarra Highway at Burrawang and Nelson Bay Road at Anna Bay.

For the latest information: 

  • Road closure information and real-time traffic conditions, check livetraffic.com or visit the Live Traffic app
  • Transport disruptions, check travel alerts
  • Current warnings visit the NSW SES website www.ses.nsw.gov.auor follow on social media @NSWSES
  • Transport for NSW encourages anyone travelling to download the Hazards Near Me Latest weather and warnings at Bureau of Meteorology
  • App, the BoM Weather App and the Live Traffic NSW App
  • Call 132 500 for assistance from SES and in an emergency, always dial Triple Zero (000).