September 2025 – Page 6

Recognition of Palestine long overdue, but it will not end the genocide in Gaza

Today at the UN General Assembly, Australia finally joined the vast majority of the world in recognising a Palestinian state.

This step is a victory for the hundreds of thousands of Australians who have been pressuring the Government, but it will not end the genocide in Gaza. The Albanese Government must now sanction Israel for its criminal actions the same way it has sanctioned Russia for its criminal invasion of Ukraine.

The UN and a consensus of genocide scholars have all made it clear that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. Far from doing everything in its power to prevent the genocide, the Albanese Government has continued to engage in a two-way arms trade with Israel and failed to sanction the extremist Netanyahu Security Cabinet.

Senator David Shoebridge, Greens spokesperson on Foreign Affairs, said

“Statehood and the right to self-determination are fundamental rights of all people. Recognising this right of Palestinians is long overdue.

“In making this decision, Australia has gone from an international outlier with the United States and a handful of its client states, to the international mainstream. Recognising Palestine is complying with basic international principles, but it is not enough in the face of a genocide.

“It is no longer, and has never been, a choice between recognition and sanctions. There is an urgent legal and moral obligation now on the Albanese Government to do everything possible to end the genocide in Gaza.

“Today’s actions will not end the genocide, it will not stop the starvation or the occupation, material action is needed.

“It’s a brutal fact of this appalling genocide that Israeli F-35 fighter jets are being used in Gaza, and they can only operate with Australian-made parts.

“Whatever today’s votes, Australia is still purchasing billions in Israeli-made weapons, which have been tested on Palestinians in Gaza. This two-way arms trade must end and comprehensive sanctions need to be put on the Israeli Government.

“The Albanese Government should be using this time at the United Nations to work with other countries to build a global sanctions regime and work together to ensure there is a lasting and just peace.”

Pensioners will get smashed and lose care while Minister Rae hides

Older Australians will pay up to $50/hour for basic care at home under Labor’s aged care changes coming on November 1 according to reporting from the ABC based on Department of Health data.

Older Australians will be forced to forgo the care they need due to cost.

Minister for Aged Care Sam Rae and Minister for Health and Ageing Mark Butler reportedly declined to be interviewed in the ABC’s story and would not answer direct questions. The government has previously admitted 30% of full pensioners and 75% of part pensioners would pay more under Labor’s changes.

Labor have been desperate to hide the true impacts of their aged care policies. It took a Senate inquiry and weeks of pressure just to get straight answers on the true nature of the aged care waitlist, with over 200,000 older Australians waiting for care.

Those revelations eventually lead to the Government’s first defeat in the Senate as a successful push from the Greens, crossbench and opposition led to the urgent release of 20,000 home care packages.

Greens spokesperson for Older People, Senator Penny Allman-Payne:

“Under Labor’s Aged Care Act the worse your health, the more you’ll pay.”

“Labor have been keeping older people in the dark about these changes since they passed last year, but it’s becoming clearer by the day that these changes aren’t about improving care, only about propping up private providers profits.”

“The Greens tried to remove co-payments when the bill came through parliament last year and we were the only ones to oppose the new laws.”

“The Aged Care Minister Sam Rae needs to stop hiding, come clean about how much he expects older people will pay under the new system and how many people are going to miss out on care.”

“Older Australians should be able to access the care they need, not just the care they can afford.”

“Labor’s bleeding pensioners dry while giving tax-dodging corporations a pass.”

Communications Minister must urgently intervene to put safety first

Under the urgent carrier licence condition, the Communications Minister has the power to appoint an independent technical expert to oversee Optus’ Triple 0 capability. This only requires cabinet sign off, not parliamentary, which means that it could be done today.

Greens Communications spokesperson, Senator Sarah Hanson-Young:

“This is a catastrophic failure of Optus, and a devastating regulatory failure too.

“Optus have put profits before safety and our telecommunications regulations have failed to protect the community.

“We need better regulation and better oversight and that’s why I am calling on the Communications Minster today to immediately put in place independent oversight of Optus.

“The Communications Minister has the power to intervene and put in place an independent technical expert to oversee Optus’ delivery of Triple 0. Given how little public faith there is in Optus now, the Minister should take this issue to Cabinet for sign off immediately.

“How many more strikes does Optus need? The company clearly can’t be trusted to do the right thing on its own. We don’t need another review for the Minister to take immediate action, she has the power to act and can intervene today.

“This is a matter of life and death and at the end of the day, responsibility sits with the Government to ensure that this most essential service is delivered to Australians.

“People need to know that when they dial Triple 0 they will get an answer. This is an industry that is largely self-regulated and it’s time that ended. We need direct regulation of these essential serv

International visit

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will depart on Saturday 20 September to travel to the United States, United Kingdom and United Arab Emirates.

In the United States, the Prime Minister will lead Australia’s delegation at the United Nations General Assembly for High Level Week. He will have a range of bilateral meetings with some of our major international partners.

This visit will allow Australia to continue working with our international partners to address the growing economic and security challenges facing the world today and to take forward outcomes that benefit Australian people at home in their everyday lives.

During High Level Week, the Prime Minister will promote investment in Australia, particularly in renewable energy and manufacturing, share Australia’s world-leading experience in protecting children online, and highlight our practical action on climate change.

The Prime Minister will attend a major conference on the two state solution hosted by France and Saudi Arabia. Australia is a longstanding supporter of a two-state solution as the only pathway to a secure and prosperous future for Israelis and Palestinians alike.

Prime Minister Albanese will then travel to London and meet with United Kingdom Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and hold a series of other high level meetings. The United Kingdom is Australia’s second-largest source of foreign investment and our second-largest destination for outgoing investment.

The UK is also our 11th largest two-way trading partner – with $31 billion in goods and services trade in 2022-23 – as well as our 12th largest export destination and our 9th largest source of imports.

On the return to Australia, Prime Minister Albanese will stop in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and meet President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss Australia’s critical Free Trade Agreement with the UAE, the Australia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), coming into force.

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles will be Acting Prime Minister while Prime Minister Albanese is overseas.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“This visit is focussed on taking forward Australian’s national and economic interests at home.

“I will be promoting investment in Australia in line with our Future Made in Australia agenda, highlighting world leading steps Australia is taking to keep children safe online and delivering Australia’s new climate target to the United Nations in line with our Paris Agreement obligations.

“This will be an opportunity to meet with some of Australia’s major international partners to discuss trade and economic opportunities that help to create jobs and growth at home.

“During the visit I will address the United National General Assembly for the first time as Prime Minister as part of High Level week.

“Australia played a pivotal role in the founding of the United Nations – because we have always understood how important it is for middle powers as well as smaller nations to have their voices heard in the big challenges facing our world.

“Australia’s commitment to the United Nations and the multilateral system is enduring – our sovereignty and prosperity are strengthened through global institutions and rules.”

Swimming season returns with $2 entry trial at four inland pools

City of Newcastle will launch a trial of reduced entry fees for all visitors at four of its five inland pools when the new swimming season begins on Saturday.

Councillors voted in June to endorse the $2 trial at Beresfield, Mayfield, Stockton and Wallsend pools for the 2025/26 swimming season, a proposal supported by 95% of respondents who took part in community consultation.

Lambton Park War Memorial Swimming Centre is not included in the trial to reduce the risk of overcrowding at that facility, and with a waterslide, aquatic playground and four pools, its
$6 all-day entry fee ensures it remains the most affordable pool with similar facilities in the region.

Cr Peta Winney-Baartz, lifeguard Ethan Crisp, Cr Declan Clausen, lifeguard Tiarna Baxter and Cr Charlotte McCabe at Mayfield Pool ahead of its reopening on Saturday and the start of the $2 entry fee trial.Cr Declan Clausen, who proposed the $2 entry fee trial, said it’s important to provide equitable and affordable access to aquatic facilities across the city.

“Our inland swimming centres play a vital role in fostering community connection and promoting health and wellbeing,” Cr Clausen said.

“Combined with free access to Merewether and Newcastle Ocean Baths, we’re making sure everyone has a place to cool off this summer.”

Visitors to all five inland pools will enjoy upgraded facilities following more than $1 million of programmed maintenance and upgrades over the winter break.

Lambton reopened on 25 August following the installation of a new platform to increase accessibility, an extensive paint job which includes non-slip areas, as well as three new heat pumps.

Beresfield received an upgrade to the solar heating system, while Stockton families will enjoy new playground equipment, barbecues, picnic tables, shade structures and new accessible footpaths.

New roller shutters have been installed at Wallsend and Lambton to improve security, and lighting upgrades have been completed at Beresfield and Mayfield.

With the winter beach lifeguard schedule now completed, patrols return to all six Newcastle beaches from this Saturday, adding to the year-round patrols that also take place at Merewether and Newcastle Ocean Baths.

Executive Manager Community and Recreation Lynn Duffy said our lifeguards keep watch over more than one million swimmers and sunseekers each summer.

“City of Newcastle’s lifeguards receive extensive training and professional development to ensure they can keep the community safe,” Ms Duffy said.

“Our successful Trainee Beach Lifeguard Program is also back this summer, with applications now open.

“The program offers an exciting opportunity for four high school students, who are also members of a Hunter Surf Life Saving Club, to gain hands-on experience working alongside professional lifeguards.”

In preparation for the warmer weather, City of Newcastle has recently wrapped up its school based annual Water Safety Education Program, which has been delivered by lifeguards since 1966.

This year’s program covered 46 schools across the region, educating more than 12,000 students about dangerous conditions, how to swim safely and what to do if they get into difficult situations.

To learn more about the trainee lifeguard program go to City of Newcastle’s employment page.

For more information about lifeguard patrol hours visit our website.

Construction underway on new support unit at Moruya High School, with another $13 million in upgrades on the way

Construction has begun on Moruya High School’s brand new $7 million support unit, while another $13 million in upgrades is on the way for the school as part of the Minns Labor Government’s work to rebuild public education and ensure students in regional NSW have access to every opportunity to achieve their full potential.

The new support unit will contain seven permanent support classrooms with practical activities areas, breakout spaces, an outdoor play area, a covered outdoor learning area (COLA), accessible toilet and change rooms, laundry, kitchen, and staff room and a new access road with undercover drop-off area and car-parking facilities for the precinct.

Member for Bega Dr Michael Holland turned the first sod to mark the start of construction on the project, which is due for completion by Term 2 next year, replacing five demountables.

The new support unit will benefit and better support students with disabilities, ensuring all students have access to the same educational opportunities.

Moruya High School is also one of the 33 schools across NSW to receive a share of a $100 million investment from the NSW Government as part of the High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) partner schools program.

Under the program, Moruya High School will receive facility upgrades to accommodate increased enrolments, broaden educational opportunities and facilitate the delivery of tailored HPGE course offerings. The work will include:

Upgrades to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) classrooms, Technology and Applied Studies (TAS) classrooms and music room, performance area and sound studio.
Sports court upgrade including new court surface, fencing and line marking
Updating the science lab, library and administration buildings.
Installing air conditioning across the school.
Improvements to senior lockers, a new covered walkway and automated front gate.

These upgrades will provide state-of-the-art classrooms and facilities that promise to challenge all students to achieve their full potential.

In addition to the new support unit and HPGE upgrades at Moruya High School, families in the Bega area can look forward to improved public schools under the Minns Labor Government, including HPGE upgrades at Batemans Bay High School and a new school hall for Mogo Public School.

This work is part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to rebuild public education, with a record $2.1 billion in the 2025-26 Budget for new and upgraded schools in regional NSW.

Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos said:

“This much-needed support unit is a major investment in the future of public education for families in Moruya and provides local students with the state-of-the-art facilities they deserve.

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to delivering vital school upgrades our students need to thrive, whether through modern support classrooms or specialist facilities to deliver High Potential and Gifted opportunities. These upgrades are all about ensuring local students have access to every opportunity to achieve their full potential.

“Moruya High School is one of 33 schools across the state to benefit from our HPGE program delivering upgrades to facilitate high potential and gifted education opportunities in every public school.”

Member for Bega Dr Michael Holland said:

“I am delighted to see construction underway on the $7 million fit-for-purpose support unit at Moruya High School. This project represents a major investment in our community and a vital upgrade to support students with disabilities and additional needs.

“The new facility will replace five ageing demountables with a modern, purpose-built precinct featuring seven permanent classrooms, practical learning spaces, outdoor play areas, and improved accessibility. This will provide students with the safe and supportive environment they deserve.

“Every student should have the same opportunity to reach their potential. This support unit will not only enhance learning but also ensure that families in Moruya and across the region know their children are being given the best chance to thrive.”

Principal Moruya High School Mark English said:

“I am very excited to get this wonderful purpose-built facility that will provide outstanding opportunities for our staff to meet the needs of our students in a support setting.

“Building this support unit will provide equity for our students so they can prosper and grow to be the best they can be.

“I am thrilled to get the HPGE funding to upgrade our facilities to support our HPGE initiatives at Moruya High School. All of our students will have access to world class performance facilities and learning spaces so they can learn and develop in all domains of HPGE.”

Future of the new $2 billion Bankstown Hospital unveiled with first look at design

The community has been given its first look at the design for the state-of-the-art new Bankstown Hospital, part of a record investment to deliver enhanced healthcare and facilities for South-West Sydney communities.

While this is an important milestone, the Government has also made it clear we have work to do when it comes to health in Western Sydney.

The Minns Labor Government is investing $2 billion for the new Bankstown Hospital to help meet the future healthcare needs of our fast-growing and diverse community.

The concept designs showcase the new multi-storey building, which will house acute services including emergency, operating theatres and inpatient wards, enhancing access to healthcare services.

The design also features the hospital’s emergency department entry and main entry plaza, which will include green space and connect seamlessly with its Chapel Road location in Bankstown’s city centre, close to bus and train services and the future Sydney Metro.

The vibrant, city-shaping design ensures inpatient wards on the upper levels have maximum light and views, while the ground levels are well-connected to the nearby city.

The project is currently in the early planning stage, which has been informed by consultation with more than 1,000 staff, patients and community members through workshops, surveys and information sessions.

As part of the 2025-26 State Budget, the Minns Labor Government announced an additional $700 million for the new Bankstown Hospital, bringing the total investment to $2 billion, making it the largest single capital works investment in a public hospital in the state’s history.

Scope of the new Bankstown Hospital will be finalised through the planning process but is anticipated to include:

Emergency department
Operating theatres
Intensive care
Surgical and medical services
Health services for women and children including maternity
Mental health
Ambulatory care
Aged health
New multi-storey car park and on-ground parking
Other clinical services to be defined as planning progresses

In the coming months, further opportunities for staff and the community to provide feedback are planned to help inform the ongoing planning and design of the new hospital.

The NSW Government is also investing $100 million to relocate the TAFE NSW Bankstown campus to enable construction of the new hospital.

TAFE NSW will relocate most of its training delivery to the new Western Sydney University Tower, across the road from the existing Bankstown campus. This will ensure local staff and students can still access brand new facilities and bespoke teaching and learning spaces in the heart of the Bankstown CBD.

The 2025-26 NSW Budget includes $1.3 billion of additional funding to support the delivery of health facilities across Western Sydney including:

Additional State funding of $90 million to provide the full range of maternity and birthing services as part of the new Rouse Hill Hospital, with a further $120 million announced by the Commonwealth Government towards new the Rouse Hill Hospital development;
$120 million for additional beds for Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals
$492 million to develop a Statewide Pathology Hub on the Westmead campus;
$40.1 million to fit out level 13 of the new Paediatric Services Building at Westmead in partnership with the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation.
$22.3 million to establish a new paediatric hospice at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead.

Other projects in the Western Sydney region include upgrades at Nepean, Liverpool, Canterbury, Fairfield, Camden and Campbelltown hospitals. The new Bankstown Hospital is being delivered by South Western Sydney Local Health District and Health Infrastructure.

For more information on the New Bankstown Hospital and to provide feedback visit: http://nsw.gov.au/newbankstownhospital

Premier Chris Minns:

“We know that Western Sydney hospitals have been under significant pressure, and while this investment is a major step forward, there’s still more work to do to ensure patients and staff get the facilities and support they deserve.”

“This is the largest single capital works investment in a public hospital in NSW’s history. It’s a clear demonstration of our commitment to Western Sydney — but it’s also just part of the work we have ahead of us.

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“We still have a lot of work to do, but we’re getting on with the job to deliver this world-class health facility, tailored to address the future health care needs of the growing Bankstown community.

“Staff and community consultation is an essential part of the planning and design process and I’m so grateful for our hard-working health staff and clinicians who’ve already provided valuable input.”

Jihad Dib, Member for Bankstown:

“Located in the heart of the Bankstown CBD, near the university and close to transport, including the future Sydney Metro, the new Bankstown Hospital will provide job opportunities and the highest level of care for our community.”

Kylie Wilkinson, Member for East Hills:

“We’re building this brand new health care facility in Bankstown from the ground up, ensuring its design reflects the needs of our community.”

Member for Auburn Lynda Voltz:

“The new Bankstown Hospital will transform healthcare for South-West communities by providing contemporary healthcare services and facilities, while also helping to attract and retain staff through modern, purpose-built health infrastructure.”

Have your say on safety and reliability projects in planning for Mount Ousley

Consultation is now open and Transport for NSW is seeking feedback from road users and the community on their experiences travelling along and accessing the M1 Princes Motorway between Picton Road and the base of Mount Ousley.

The Albanese and Minns governments have jointly committed $10 million towards planning for options to improve the safety and reliability of this five-kilometre section of the M1 Princes Motorway.

Site investigations will be carried out in coming months and will be used in conjunction with community feedback to inform planning and development of upgrade options.

Early investigations may include Aboriginal heritage and cultural investigations, biodiversity and environmental studies, traffic studies, surveys, and utility and geotechnical investigations.

Transport for NSW will use data gathered from early investigations and feedback received from the community to develop a number of options.

Transport will continue to keep the community informed as updates on the project are available. Transport will collate and consider the feedback received during the have your say consultation period and prepare a summary outlining what we heard by early 2026.

Feedback can be provided up until 11.59pm on Monday 20 October 2025 by visiting www.transport.nsw.gov.au/mtousleysri

Funding for delivery of improvements will be sought after the planning is complete.

Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park:

“The Albanese and Minns governments are committed to improving the safety, reliability and resilience of the road corridor connecting the Illawarra region and Greater Metropolitan Sydney via the M1 Princes Motorway and Picton Road / Hume Motorway.

“With both the construction of the Mount Ousley interchange and planning for the Picton Road upgrade well underway, we are looking at what improvements can be made to the five-kilometre stretch of the M1 Princes Motorway in between.

“Community feedback will play a vital role in the development of options to improve this stretch of road and we encourage all road users and local residents to share their experiences.”

Member for Wollongong Paul Scully:

“Mount Ousley and Picton Road play crucial roles in passenger and freight movements in and out of the Illawarra.

“Over the coming years freight movements will grow and so too will the number of people travelling from south-west Sydney to the Illawarra for jobs and recreation so it is important that we understand motorists experiences when planning future upgrades.

“Over the coming months site investigations will take place to understand the existing site conditions and this will be coupled with feedback from the community to better inform the development of upgrade options.”

Member for Cunningham Alison Byrnes:

“We are working hard across all levels of government to ensure that our road corridors are safer and more reliable.

“As part of this, it is vital that the community’s voice is heard so that the changes we make see the best outcome for community.

“We have been listening to that feedback already as part of the Mount Ousley Interchange project, and I am pleased that the Australian and NSW governments are actively listening to the community for the ongoing work that needs to be done throughout this corridor.

“Thank you to everyone who has contributed to our work so far, and I look forward to continuing to work constructively across government and community to modernise our roads and make them safer for the future.”

International Trade Delegation visiting the Hunter

The Minns Labor Government is continuing work to strengthen regional economies in NSW with 17 high ranking international trade delegates undertaking a three-day tour of the Hunter region, starting today.

The Hunter region is showcasing its leading advanced manufacturing and clean economy technologies businesses for the visitors to experience first-hand the trade opportunities available.

The NSW Government has invited delegates from Canada, China, Germany, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Denmark, New Zealand, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom to tour prominent businesses and industrial sites.

The Trade Mission will be introduced to leading industries and emerging innovative businesses including:

Australia’s first hardware accelerator and industry prototyping lab, The Melt who are leading the way for clean technology and advanced manufacturing in the Hunter
Recyclable solar innovator, Kardinia Energy who have developed silicon free printed solar panels that were used for British rock band Coldplay’s world tour
Cutting edge technology and pioneering micro-emulsion flow batteries at Allegro Energy
Visit regional leaders at the AGL Hunter Energy Hub and BHP Mt Arthur on regional transition planning and reskilling.

The region is also home to a range of advanced manufacturing capabilities, including med-tech, energy as well as heavy engineering and is supported by a skilled workforce and strong industry-academic collaboration such as the Newcastle Institute for Energy & Resources.

Delegates will also immerse themselves in the unique offerings of the Murrook Cultural Centre and will engage with two of the region’s leading Aboriginal businesses, Blackrock Industries and Native Botanical Brewery.

The Minns Labor Government continues to deliver policies that support trade and investment opportunities with the aim of ensuring Australia’s position as a global leader in advanced manufacturing.

These efforts align with the Government’s NSW Industry Policy, which puts net zero and local manufacturing at the forefront of Government policy decisions, and the 10-year NSW Trade and Investment Strategy 2035, which aims to see our exports grow by $100 billion and attract $25 billion in investment to NSW.

These actions are all part of the Minns Labor Government’s clear strategy to support local businesses across the state who are ready to take their products and services to the world.

Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“The Hunter Region is a hub of opportunity, offering enormous potential across established and emerging industries like advanced manufacturing that can be showcased to global investors.

“This Trade Mission is an excellent opportunity for us to roll out the welcome mat and let our local industry show off their and investment opportunities.

Experiencing the Hunter Region firsthand offers a deep appreciation of its economic potential. It’s exciting to see the Consuls-General engaging directly with the region’s innovators and industries, gaining valuable insight that simply can’t be captured from afar.

“This Trade Mission is shining a spotlight on regional NSW, connecting global investors with local innovation to unlock new opportunities, boost job creation, and accelerate economic growth across our communities.

Minister for Hunter, Yasmin Catley said:

“The Hunter is home to some of the most skilled workers and innovative businesses in the country. Investment in advanced manufacturing and clean energy is creating real opportunities for local families and future proofing our economy.

“The Hunter has always been a region that gets things done. With new investment flowing into clean energy and advanced manufacturing, we’re creating jobs, boosting local businesses, and building a future for generations to come.

“We are leading the way in sustainable industry and now our achievements are on the global stage.”

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“We know NSW is a powerhouse for innovation, and the Minns’ Labor Government is excited to see even more innovation in the Hunter’s advanced manufacturing and clean energy sectors.

“Inbound trade missions like this are about unlocking new partnerships, delivering on the NSW Trade and Investment Strategy, and showcasing the Hunter’s world-class capabilities.

“The Minns Labor Government has worked hard to strengthen our international partnerships and build a platform for greater investment in NSW, which is all part of our plan support local businesses and local jobs, while helping boost productivity.

“The Hunter is proving that regional NSW can be a global leader in clean energy and advanced manufacturing. This Trade Mission is about connecting that potential with international markets ready to invest in sustainable innovation.”

Case study: Director and Chief Operations Officer, The Melt, Brett Thomas

Brett Thomas is Director and Chief Operations Officer of The Melt, an accelerator and hardware prototyping hub based at The Melt Modern Manufacturing Centre in Muswellbrook.

This hub offers startup accelerator programs, design and prototyping services, equipment and tools, and technical specialists to help Australia’s brightest hardware startups commercialise their products.

They also provide tertiary integrated learning and STEM student programs, industry micro-credentialing and early-stage startup investment through their own funds and investor networks.

The Melt has played a key role in supporting Hunter-based companies such as Allegro Energy and MGA Thermal, providing technical expertise, business support and capital from their earliest days. These companies are now recognised as leaders in clean energy innovation, demonstrating the Hunter region’s capacity to deliver world-first technologies.

Brett says NSW Government support is critical to attracting and retaining trade and investment while driving innovation. The Melt itself has been a direct recipient of government support, enabling it to create, build, scale, connect, innovate and invest in the future of Australian hardware technology startups.

The Melt’s broader mission is to champion regional NSW during the transition to clean energy through advanced manufacturing.

It has established partnerships across the Hunter, New England and the South West Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) and is exploring the creation of Mobile Innovation Labs to extend its services into regional, rural and remote communities. These ‘Mobile Melts’ would act as a funnel for the main Melt Hubs, with a long-term vision to establish hubs in every NSW REZ and major innovation centre.

Director and Chief Operations Officer, The Melt, Brett Thomas said:

“This Trade Mission provides an opportunity for delegates to witness the world-first innovation occurring within the Hunter region and it’s a chance to reiterate that innovation doesn’t just take place in the metro areas.

“The Melt has a long-term commitment to its program alumni, portfolio companies, partners and supporters. Showcasing The Melt and the businesses we’ve supported, such as Allegro Energy and MGA Thermal, to international audiences will help open doors to new markets, partners, distributors and investors.

“The Hunter is the heartland of energy production and generation in NSW and as the globe embraces energy transition, there is an incredible opportunity for economic diversification and development.

“NSW government investment in domestic manufacturing, the push towards renewables and net zero targets and the faster, more affordable path to establishing hardware startups all highlight the importance of The Melt’s role in capitalising on the opportunities for the Hunter.”

Reducing e-bike fire risk on NSW rail network

Train passengers and staff will be less at risk from lithium-ion battery fires as a result of a ban on converted e-bikes on the NSW rail network.

Converted e-bikes are defined as regular pedal bikes that have been fitted with batteries and motors. These have higher risk of electrical failure due and fire risk due to DIY installations, inadequate wiring and use of second-hand batteries and incompatible or poor-quality components.

Other e-bikes, shared e-bikes and mobility devices will not be impacted, however Transport for NSW will continue to monitor all e-micromobility incidents closely. The decision will not apply to travel on concourses, lifts, escalators, or bike storage facilities outside of the fare gates. Riders passing through community access gates will not be impacted.

The growing popularity of e-bikes has meant a greater prevalence on our train network. Due to the risk of e-bike lithium-ion batteries igniting, and the additional risk posed by poorly made and modified devices, it will be illegal to take a converted e-bike on Sydney Trains, NSW Trainlink and Metro services from 1 November.

Carriage of a restricted converted e-bike would carry a penalty notice offence of $400 with a maximum penalty of 10 penalty units ($1,110). This is comparable to the existing offence for carrying a petrol-powered device on a train or railway premises. Ahead of the ban coming into effect, passengers are being asked not to bring any converted e-bikes on these services.

The move comes after extensive consultation with the rail and fire authorities, unions, e-bike users, delivery services, shared scheme operators and passengers. That engagement included a Transport for NSW Have Your Say consultation that received around 3000 responses, and a ministerial reference group with key stakeholders. We thank all parties who took part in the consultation.

Transport has been monitoring the risk of lithium-ion fires after two recent e-bike fires at Liverpool Station in August, Blacktown Station in April (which involved a converted e-bike) and on a Melbourne suburban train in March. So far this year Fire and Rescue NSW have reported 77 e-micromobility related lithium-ion battery fires.

To support the ban of converted e-bikes on trains, Transport will provide additional training for staff, conduct hotspot blitzes, and increase public messaging about the fire risk of modified devices.

To improve standards across all e-bikes, the NSW and Victorian Transport Ministers have written a joint letter to the Commonwealth Government requesting their support in strengthening Australia’s approach to the safety of e-devices, to ensure that all devices imported, sold and used in Australia are safe and fit for purpose.

The NSW Government recognises the increasingly important role e-micromobility devices will play in the future of public transport, including the ability to mode shift and complete the ‘last mile’ between metro and train stations and destinations. In order to safely integrate e-bikes the government is currently drafting legislation to better regulate shared devices.

Minster for Transport John Graham said:

“We take the safety of our rail passengers and staff very seriously which is why we are taking the highest risk e-bikes out of train carriages.

“The overwhelming message from the consultation was that banning all e-bikes from trains would go too far. Taking out the highest risk e-bikes is a sensible and balanced step, but we will watch this space very closely and take further action if necessary.

“E-bikes are becoming more popular and playing an increasing role in our transport network. Our aim is to allow people to enjoy their advantages whilst keeping everyone safe.

“It’s a timely reminder ahead of Christmas – if you’re thinking of getting an e-bike, take a look at the Fair Trading website and look for a quality bike, to make sure you’re investing in safety.”

Transport for NSW Secretary Josh Murray said:

“Electronic devices have transformed the way we live, work, and commute – but without boundaries, some have also introduced new risks and the potential to disrupt our safe rail operations.

“This isn’t a matter of jumping at shadows. Our safety experts have been monitoring this emerging situation very closely, and we’re taking a sensible approach in consultation with our rail and transport operators.

“We urge people to purchase good quality e-bikes that comply with minimum product safety standards and avoid any modification to their bike.

“Put simply, the idea of blocked aisles, confined spaces and battery fires from risky devices don’t mix.”