Month: November 2025

Canberra’s War Parties team up to vote against an AUKUS inquiry

The Albanese Labor Government joined with the Coalition today to vote against an inquiry into AUKUS.

Labor’s vote for secrecy follows both the UK and the US undertaking reviews into the AUKUS agreement, and ignores the chronic supply and logistical issues with the nuclear submarine programs in each AUKUS country.

The Inquiry proposed by the Greens would have allowed a Senate committee to take for public submissions on all aspects of the AUKUS deal, including environmental impacts, defence impacts, costs, and independence.

Senator David Shoebridge, Greens spokesperson on Defence and Foreign Affairs, said:

“AUKUS is a $375 billion nuclear-powered raid on Australia’s public wealth.”

“The fact that the Albanese Government have voted for secrecy in this multi-decade, multi-hundred-billion-dollar gamble shows contempt for transparency and the very real concerns of the Australian public.

“The Albanese Government has already begun handing over the first $10 billion to the US and UK as part of AUKUS, without any binding agreement to either get submarines or a refund when it all unravels.

“The US is producing barely half the number of submarines needed to make AUKUS viable, and the UK’s nuclear program is in meltdown.

“Ignoring these critical supply failures in our AUKUS partners is not a credible defence strategy. But instead of a hard-headed review the Albanese Government’s response is to close its eyes and wait for the next photo op.

“Polling from the Australia Institute shows that Australians want a more independent foreign policy, not to align ourselves closely with US President Trump.

“Only 8% of people strongly agree with Defence Minister Richard Marles when he talks of our “shared values” with the United States.

“AUKUS is a limitless drain on our public funds that makes Australia less safe and even more dependent on Washington.

”Today’s vote shows how out of touch the Canberra national security bubble is from ordinary Australians who don’t like Donald Trump, don’t want war with China and want their Parliament to fund Medicare and public schools before nuclear submarines.”

Read the full inquiry terms of reference here.

Australians deserve to see themselves on screen

Greens spokesperson for arts and communications, Senator Sarah Hanson-Young:

“The Greens have long campaigned for local content quotas on streaming platforms to support Australian stories on our screen. Big tech companies like Netflix and Amazon who make massive profits from Australians should be required to have Australian content and give something back to the Australian economy.

“A country that invests in its community and democracy, invests in its own cultural assets and story tellers.

“We will look carefully at the detail of the bill and reserve our position until we know it is strong enough to ensure a strong future for our screen industry, including children’s content.

“Australians deserve to see themselves and their communities reflected on their screens. Telling our own stories helps us makes sense of who we are here at home and around the world.

“Generations of Australians grew up on a diet of Australian shows like Playschool, Round the Twist, and Bluey. The next generation of Aussie kids deserve better than American junk.”

Have your say and help us shape the future of transport for powerhouse region

The Minns Labor Government is calling on communities of the Central West and Orana to help shape the region’s transport future.

The Government has today released the draft Central West and Orana Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan (SRITP) for public consultation.

The Central West and Orana is a growth powerhouse for regional NSW, supporting jobs, industry and innovation across the state. The draft plan outlines a long-term vision for safer, more reliable and better-connected transport to support that growth.

Developed in close consultation with communities, all levels of government, industry stakeholders and community representatives, the draft plan identifies more than 60 practical initiatives to inform future planning, including:

  • Changes and upgrades to public and active transport for smaller and ageing communities
  • More frequent and reliable transport services
  • Safer, more resilient roads and freight corridors
  • Targeted upgrades to services, roads and the broader network to ensure people are better connected to jobs, education, health and services
  • Better use of existing infrastructure to improve safety and travel times.

The plan also recognises the region’s shifting demographics. By 2041 the population is expected to grow by more than 11 per cent to 323,000, and the number of residents aged over 65 is projected to grow as well.

The draft plan, supporting materials and details of local drop-in sessions where you can speak with the team are available at www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/sritp/central-west-and-orana.

Submissions close midnight on Sunday 14 December, and can be made via the Have Your Say webpage,  by emailing engage.sritps@transport.nsw.gov.au or by writing to us at Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plans, C/O Strategic Transport Planning Branch, Locked Bag 928, North Sydney NSW 2059

Copies of the plan will soon be available at local libraries too.

Community feedback will help refine the final plan, due for release in 2026.

The Central West and Orana SRITP is one of nine regional transport plans being developed as part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to plan for the future by strengthening safety, reliability and connectivity for communities across regional NSW.

Minister for Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison said:

“The Central West and Orana is powering NSW. From agriculture and mining to health, education and renewable energy. 

“The region is expected to grow by more than 11 per cent by 2041 and we’re delivering on our commitment to plan for that growth.

“We want to ensure everything that keeps us connected and moving keeps pace with the needs of local communities, businesses, industries and visitors.

“I am pleased to now be calling on the people within the Central West and Orana region, businesses and industry to have their say.

“This plan is about listening to the people who live, work and travel in the Central West and Orana and needs to consider how government can deliver better services for them.

“We want to hear directly from the people who use the roads, buses, rail lines and active transport options every day. Your feedback will help develop a long-term blueprint to help shape a transport network that supports a stronger, safer and better-connected future for this region.”

Minister for Regional NSW and Minister for Western NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“The Central West and Orana sits at the heart of our state. It’s where regional industry, innovation and opportunity meet.

“This plan will inform future plans, ensuring our transport network keeps up with growth and continues to connect people to the jobs, services and opportunities that make this part of NSW such a great place to live.

“From our freight corridors to our local roads, the SRITP takes a long-term, practical view of how we can make travel safer and easier for everyone.

“We know this region has unique challenges – vast distances, ageing populations and a growing economy – and that’s why local feedback is so important. I encourage everyone to have their say.”

Member for Orange, Phil Donato said:

“Having the necessary transport infrastructure and services to meet the needs of our growing region is essential.

“I welcome the Minns Government’s initiative to invite locals to have their say in the planning for transport infrastructure upgrades and transport services for our region, and I encourage everyone to visit the online link and have their say.

“Last year Minister Aitchison facilitated a similar ‘have your say’ public platform regarding Orange Passenger Rail. Based on the Minister’s initiative – and the input of locals – there’s already been progress in planning for improved rail services to meet the needs our community.”

Minns Government on track for another record year of public housing builds

The Minns Labor Government has delivered 243 new public and affordable homes over the past three months in New South Wales, with another major redevelopment now underway in Western Sydney as work continues to address the states housing and affordability crisis.

It follows the largest net increase in government-built public and community homes in over a decade, with 1,711 new social, community, and affordable homes delivered in FY2024-25, the first year of the $6.6 billion Building Homes for NSW program.

This brings the total to 1,954 new homes built in just 15 months, putting NSW on track for another record-breaking year of public housing completions and means almost 3000 more people now have a safe place to call home.

This is in sharp contrast to the previous Liberal National Government, who oversaw a net reduction in public housing when in government taking the states supply from 110,805 in 2014 to 95,765 in 2023.

Between 2017 and 2021 while 2,257 social homes were delivered, that paled in comparison to the 3,269 they sold off.

Major Villawood Redevelopment Underway

Continuing this work construction is now underway on a 1.5 hectare site in Villawood, transforming a long-vacant block on Kamira Avenue into a vibrant mixed housing community featuring around 360 homes, plus green space, retail and commercial areas.

Under the former Liberal National Government, this site would have been downsized to just 55 social homes, reducing overall supply.

The Minns Government’s plan restores and expands the area with all 145 units built in Stage 1 dedicated to social housing. 

Construction has also started on two smaller nearby neighbourhood-scale projects that will deliver an additional 16 new homes in Villawood.

While this progress is historic, the Government recognises there is more work ahead to rebuild the public housing system and restore supply after a decade of cuts and neglect.

Last year, the Minns Labor Government announced the largest investment in housing in the state’s history, through the $6.6 billion Building Homes for New South Wales package. This included:

$5.1 billion to deliver over 8,400 new social homes, at least 50% of which will be prioritised for victim survivors of domestic and family violence.

A world leading presale guarantee to fast track construction and increase housing supply.

The largest planning reforms in a generation, establishing the Housing Delivery Authority and prioritising well-located homes near public transport.

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said:

“Every one of these homes means a family off the waitlist and into a place they can finally call their own. For too long, people have been stuck waiting while properties sat vacant or plans went backwards. We’re changing that by getting on with building homes that people need.

“Almost 250 homes in a quarter and almost 2,000 in 15 months. We’re not just talking about numbers on a spreadsheet; we’re talking about real homes that are life-changing for those in need.

“We’re building homes at a scale NSW hasn’t seen before. It’s real progress but it’s not job done, we’re only just getting started. 

“This redevelopment in Villawood is about more than just bricks and mortar, it’s about building a stronger, more inclusive community. By delivering a mix of diverse housing, we’re creating opportunities for people from all walks of life to live, grow, and thrive together.

“We’ve said time and time again that for people to grow and thrive, we need to deliver high-quality homes alongside transport, close to shops, schools and local services. This project ticks all those boxes.”

Member for FairfieldDr David Saliba said:

“It’s fantastic to see work finally underway on this site after it sat vacant for so many years. This redevelopment is a welcome and long-overdue transformation that will bring new life, new homes, and new opportunities to the Villawood community.”

“This redevelopment will help families have access to safe, secure, and modern housing.”

New Recovery Support panel launched to accelerate help for communities after disasters

The Minns Labor Government is streamlining and accelerating the roll out of essential equipment – including temporary shelters, generators and clean water systems – to support communities in their recovery when disaster strikes.

A Disaster Recovery Standing Panel will be created to list trusted suppliers who can rapidly deliver essential goods and services to local communities in the aftermath of floods, bushfires, storms and other weather events.

The Panel will help speed up and coordinate the procurement of resources, assisting communities in their recovery by ensuring critical equipment is ready wherever needed.

The NSW Reconstruction Authority is inviting expressions of interest (EOIs) from capable suppliers to join the Disaster Recovery Standing Panel. Local small businesses are encouraged to put forward applications.

The first phase is focused on equipment hire, including temporary shelters, fencing, generators, lighting, portable bathrooms and water purification equipment.

Businesses successful in joining the Disaster Recovery Standing Panel will have the opportunity to be part of a network that is ready to help when communities need support most.

To apply, businesses must have a valid ABN and be registered as a supplier on the buy.nsw platform.

Applications for the EOI opened on 29 October and close on 21 November and can be submitted directly via the Opportunities Hub on buy.nsw.gov.au.

Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said:

“Disasters can strike without warning – but the Disaster Recovery Standing Panel will help make sure we’re a step ahead.

“We have learned from past disasters that getting critical resources on the ground quickly is essential for communities to begin their recovery.

“This initiative offers businesses, including local small businesses, a meaningful opportunity to play a key role in disaster recovery and contribute to creating more resilient communities across NSW.”

NSW Reconstruction Acting Head of Preparedness and Recovery Ashlee Abbott said:

“Every minute counts when disaster strikes. This proactive approach means we’ll no longer be chasing suppliers after the fact – the equipment and capability will already be ready to go.

“This approach connects trusted suppliers directly with the communities that need them most.

“It ensures we can tap into local capability quickly, while giving businesses the chance to be part of the recovery effort.”

Minns Labor Government seals the deal for safer, smoother journeys on Rangari Road

The Minns Labor Government is getting on with the job of delivering better roads for the bush, today announcing $9 million to seal the final stretch of Rangari Road in the Narrabri Shire.

The funding, from the NSW Government’s Rural and Regional Roads Fund, will allow Narrabri Shire Council to seal the last 9.6 kilometres of the road, the missing link that connects the Tamworth, Gunnedah and Narrabri local government areas.

Once complete, Rangari Road will be fully sealed for the first time, improving safety, reducing maintenance, and providing a smoother, more reliable route for locals, farmers, freight operators and emergency services.

The upgrade will cut dust, improve traction and reduce potholes, making travel safer and easier year-round, particularly in wet weather when unsealed roads can become impassable.

The $9 million investment brings total government funding for Rangari Road improvements to more than $30 million, completing a vital regional transport corridor and supporting economic growth across Western NSW.

Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said:

“We’re getting on with the job of delivering better roads for regional communities.

“This funding will seal the final stretch of Rangari Road, making a real difference for locals, freight and emergency services who rely on it every day.

“The Minns Labor Government is backing the bush by building safer, stronger connections right across NSW.”

Independent Member for Barwon, Roy Butler said:

“This has been a long time coming for our community.

“Rangari Road is a key route for farmers, workers and families and sealing this last section means safer travel, less maintenance and better reliability for everyone.

“I’m pleased to have worked with Minister Aitchison to secure this investment and I will be encouraging Council to get moving, to ensure safer roads for Barwon.

School infrastructure projects booming in Sydney’s South West

One of the largest school building delivery programs in the history of South West Sydney’s growth region is taking off with major work now underway to deliver new and upgraded schools and preschools across the Camden and Leppington electorates.

Ahead of a community cabinet meeting, Premier Chris Minns, Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos, and the Member for Camden Sally Quinnell met with Gregory Hills Public School students who will attend the new Gledswood Hills High School once it opens.

The new permanent Gledswood Hills High School will feature 51 classrooms, specialist workshops for science, technology and the arts, a multipurpose hall, library, canteen, administration facilities, a covered outdoor learning area, sports courts and playing fields and will open on Day 1 Term 1 2027, catering for up to 1,000 students.

To ensure local students could continue their education close to home during construction, the Minns Government opened a temporary Gledswood Hills High School on the Gregory Hills Public School site this year for Year 7 students. Year 8 students will join them in 2026 while work continues on the new permanent site.

With construction on the new permanent high school having commenced in September, ground works are now underway, and slab pours for several buildings are expected in the coming weeks.

For 12 years, Gledswood Hills and Gregory Hills were neglected by the former Liberal National Government with local parents having to fight for the new schools they desperately needed.

The permanent Gledswood Hills High School is one of 12 education projects underway in Camden and neighbouring Leppington. Projects being delivered include:

  • Austral Public School upgrade – Construction is underway on Stage 1 of the project, delivering a new building with 20 classrooms and three support classrooms.
  • Dalmeny Public School upgrade – Work will soon begin on a new 16-classroom building.
  • Eagle Vale High School upgrade – Early works are complete, including new sports facilities. Construction tendering is underway to build a new multipurpose hall.
  • Emerald Hills new primary school and public preschool – Planning and design work is progressing for a 550-student school and 60-student preschool.
  • Greenway Park Public School upgrade and new preschool – Construction begins this month on eight new classrooms and a 60-student preschool.
  • New high school for Leppington and Denham Court – Major construction is underway on a new 1,000-student high school.
  • Leppington Public School upgrade and new preschool – Construction is underway on Stage 1 of the project, delivering a new building with 20 classrooms and three support classrooms. Work on the 60-student preschool will begin soon.

The Minns Labor Government is also building an additional three new public preschools in the region offering 280 places per week for the area’s youngest learners. The public preschools will be co-located at Eschol Park Public School, Kearns Public School and Robert Townson Public School.

These school projects will deliver 190 new classrooms, providing capacity for almost 4,300 additional students in the area. More than 60 demountable buildings will be removed as part of this work, freeing up valuable play space for students.

The number of students in Gledswood Hills and Gregory Hills alone grew by almost 150 per cent between 2018 and 2023, while Leppington was identified as being in the top 10 fastest growth areas for enrolments in the state, with the number of students tripling in the same period.

This is all part of the Minns Labor Government’s record $3.9 billion investment to deliver new and upgraded schools in Western Sydney as the government gets more teachers in front of classrooms by reducing teacher vacancies by 61 per cent, halving the number of merged and cancelled classes in NSW.

Premier Chris Minns said:

“South West Sydney is one of the fastest growing parts of Australia, and it is essential that we build the infrastructure to keep up with that growth.

“I remember meeting parents in this community when I was Opposition Leader and I want to congratulate these families, teachers and community members who advocated tirelessly to ensure local kids will have a quality, permanent high school.”

Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos said:

“Our government has listened to the parents and families of Camden and Leppington, whose pleas for new schools and upgrades were disregarded by the Liberals and Nationals.

“Under the leadership of Deputy Premier and Education Minister Prue Car we are building these new and upgraded schools where they are needed most and delivering on Labor’s commitments to local parents.”

Member for Camden Sally Quinnell said:

“I’m pleased that construction on the permanent Gledswood Hills High School is in full swing and our community is excited for the opportunities the new school will bring for our students.

“The new facilities, which I was proud to campaign for alongside local parents, will provide students with a supportive and innovative learning environment for years to come.”

Gledswood Hills High School Principal Belinda Giudice said:

“Our community is thrilled to see the new permanent Gledswood Hills High School taking shape.

“From specialist classrooms to the outdoor environments where students can learn and grow, our school will provide students with every chance to thrive academically and socially.”

Gregory Hills Public School Principal Alison Rourke said:

“We are thrilled to be the temporary home of Gledswood Hills High School as the foundations on the permanent campus take shape.

“Students are still benefitting from our own recent upgrade, which provided new facilities to enhance their learning and opportunities for growth and success now and into the future.”

Construction starts on $200 million Bathurst Hospital Redevelopment

The Minns Labor Government has today marked the start of construction on the $200 million Bathurst Hospital Redevelopment, a major milestone in delivering enhanced health services for Bathurst and surrounding communities.

The $200 million redevelopment will provide patients, staff and carers with access to modern health facilities and expanded healthcare services to meet the future health needs of the communities in the Central West of NSW.

The redevelopment will include:

  • An expanded Emergency Department
  • Expanded Maternity services, including Special Care Nursery
  • A new modern non-acute mental health inpatient unit (Panorama Clinic)
  • Improved inpatient, outpatient and community health services
  • Operating theatres
  • Expanded cardiology services
  • A new paediatrics zone
  • New main entry and cafe

More than 70 additional car parking spaces are planned to be delivered onsite and in surrounding streets, including 46 additional parking spaces at key locations on the hospital campus providing a boost to the existing 306 car spaces for staff, patients and visitors. This will support improved access to the new hospital main entry on Mitre Street and the existing hospital entry on Howick Street. 

The hospital design has been informed by extensive feedback and consultation with health professionals, staff, patients and Aboriginal community representatives.

During construction of the Bathurst Hospital Redevelopment, a strong focus will be placed on engaging local tradespeople, suppliers, and subcontractors. This will help maximise the economic benefits of the project within the region and ensure the local community has a stake in the hospital’s future.

Local trades and suppliers are being invited to attend information sessions facilitated by main works contractor, Icon SI (Aust) Pty Ltd, which will provide details on pre-qualification requirements, how to register interest in subcontracting opportunities and upcoming work packages. Supporting the local economy, Icon is partnering with Lipman, which has a local Bathurst office, to deliver the hospital redevelopment.

The information sessions will be held:

  • Wednesday 19 November 2025, 3.30pm-5.30pm, Lipman office, 4 Lombard Drive, Robin Hill
  • Thursday 20 November 2025, 3.00pm-5.00pm, Redevelopment Project Office, Bathurst Hospital campus, corner of Mitre and Durham Streets

Construction is expected to be completed in 2028.

Businesses and tradespeople can also visit the project website or contact the project team to register their interest via email HI-Bathurst@health.nsw.gov.au

For the latest news and information about the project visit: www.nsw.gov.au/bathurst-hospital-redevelopment

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park:

“The start of construction means we are one step closer delivering a high-quality health facility that will serve the Bathurst and surrounding communities for generations to come.

“The $200 million investment will ensure the local community has better access to world class health care closer to home.”

Labor Spokesperson for Bathurst, Stephen Lawrence:

“The $200 million Bathurst Hospital Redevelopment will transform the delivery of healthcare for the community of Bathurst, improve patient outcomes, and support the valuable work of our dedicated health care staff in a state-of-the-art health facility, and I look forward to seeing this exciting project come to fruition.

“It’s fantastic to see local trades and businesses being given the chance to play a key role in the hospital’s redevelopment, which will create hundreds of jobs throughout construction and beyond, supporting the local economy and workforce.”

NSW Government investing $13.5 million into community reserves

The Minns Labor Government is delivering better communities across NSW with a major boost to the 2025–26 Crown Reserves Improvement Fund.

Funding has increased to $13.5 million, more than $2 million higher than last year to support upgrades and maintenance across the state’s Crown land reserves.

In a move to help deliver more local projects, the Minns Labor Government has also halved the minimum general grant amount to $50,000, making it easier for Crown land managers to apply for smaller, high-impact projects that make a big difference to their communities.

The Crown Reserves Improvement Fund supports repairs, maintenance, and upgrades that strengthen the local economies and enhance the cultural, sporting and recreational life of NSW.

Grant applications are open until 5:00 pm AEDT on 5 December 2025, with funding available for projects up to $1 million.

The Annual Grant Round covers three categories: general maintenance and improvement projects, pest management, and weed management projects.

Further information is available at Reserve Manager Website or on 1300 886 235 (option 5) or via email at reservefunding@crownland.nsw.gov.au.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to building better communities across NSW and the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund keeps public reserves safe, vibrant and accessible.

“Investing in Crown reserves helps to support local industry and enrich the cultural, sporting and recreational life of our communities across the state.”

Labor’s $5.4 million toll review stuck in the starting gates

Today while many are watching the race that stops the nation, the Minns Labor Government’s toll review is still stuck in the starting gates and taxpayers are the ones left footing the bill.
 
News reports today have revealed that Allan Fels and David Cousins are each being paid $165,000 for ongoing work tied to Labor’s toll review, even though their report was handed down more than a year ago. That’s about $900 a day of taxpayers’ money for a review that has delivered no change to tolls and no relief for drivers.
 
The Minns Labor Government’s toll reform has turned into a multi-million-dollar circus:

  • $5.4 million wasted on a review with no outcome
  • $1.7 million paid in consulting fees
  • $145,000 on five-star hotels and business-class flights
  • $2.75 million for new lawyers
  • New tolls being explored on the M5 West, M5 East, Harbour Bridge, Harbour Tunnel and Eastern Distributor
  • Toll hikes already applied to the Harbour Bridge and Tunnel and two-way tolling to come
  • Drivers warned some tolls could increase up to nine times higher

Before the election, Labor promised no new tolls and fairness for drivers. After almost 1,000 days, they have delivered nothing The toll cap expires in 57 days, and there is still no replacement, no plan and no delivery.
 
Every minister and department has had a turn in the saddle including, Jo Haylen, John Graham, Premier’s Department Secretary Simon Draper, teams in Treasury, Transport for NSW and the Premier’s Department, and after three Labor budgets, drivers are left clueless as to what is happening.
 
Premier Chris Minns should know better than anyone how the system works. As the senior staffer to former Labor Roads Minister Carl Scully, he helped design Sydney’s toll network in the first place. He built the track, and now he cannot find the finish line.
 
Getting across the line clearly is not Labor’s thing. We saw that with their Rosehill thought bubble, and now again with a toll review that has gone nowhere while consultants keep collecting prize money for a race that never ran.
 
Opposition Leader Mark Speakman said Labor’s toll review has become the slowest race in Australia.
 
“After almost 1,000 days, the only thing across the finish line is the bill. The consultants are galloping away with millions while drivers are left eating dust,” Mr Speakman said.
 
Shadow Minister for Transport and Roads Natalie Ward said Labor’s toll review is still stuck at the barriers.
 
“Labor promised fairness for motorists, but has delivered higher tolls, more lawyers and more consultants. The only sure bet this Melbourne Cup Day is that under Labor, taxpayers always lose,” Ms Ward said.