Month: November 2025

Doli incapax reforms are welcome, but Minns still refusing to fix youth justice crisis

The Minns Labor Government has announced that it will legislate the existing doli incapax presumption, introduce new mandatory considerations for courts, and expand access to diversionary options for some children. The package follows an independent review commissioned earlier this year.

Greens MP and spokesperson for Justice, Sue Higginson, has welcomed the NSW Government’s long-overdue decision to legislate the doli incapax test, but says today’s announcement fails to address the evidence and fails to deliver the urgent change needed to keep children and communities safe.

Greens MP and Justice Spokesperson Sue Higginson said:

“Legislating the existing doli incapax presumption is welcome, but the Minns Labor Government has once again stopped short of the single reform that all experts, First Nations leaders and the United Nations have been demanding for decades. We must raise the age of criminal responsibility to 14. Anything less leaves NSW trapped in a cycle of political panic and child harm,”

“The Government is telling the public these changes will keep communities safe, but the evidence shows the opposite. Children aged 10 to 13 do not have the cognitive capacity to understand criminal intent and early contact with the criminal legal system dramatically increases the likelihood of future offending. The review the Government commissioned confirmed this, yet the Government continues to ignore it,”

“The Attorney General and Premier are trying to present today’s announcement as a bold move, but codifying an existing common law presumption does not address the real crisis. What we needed was a commitment to keep children out of prisons, invest in community-led supports and finally stop criminalising the youngest and most vulnerable,”

“First Nations children are already massively overrepresented in the youth justice system and they will continue to be harmed by a Government that refuses to listen to Aboriginal peak bodies calling for an Aboriginal led response. We cannot keep repeating the mistakes that experts and communities have been warning about for decades,”

“The limited diversion reforms are only a partial fix. Children should not need to navigate criminal charges to access support. The Government has missed the opportunity to shift to a true public health model that prevents offending rather than punishing it,”

“NSW cannot claim to be serious about youth crime while it locks up ten year olds. The evidence is clear. Raising the age keeps communities safer. It keeps children safer. It is consistent with international law. The Government’s refusal to act on the full issue is a failure of leadership and a failure of courage,” Ms Higginson said.

First Nations deaths in custody risks will increase during worst year on record thanks to Minns Government Bill, say experts

First Nations peak bodies, University Law Schools and legal experts have been critical of the Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong for progressing laws that will worsen the risks of deaths in custody following the NSW State Coroner’s rare statement criticizing the worst year for First Nations deaths in custody on record.

In an open letter,First Nations peak bodies, and law experts warned that “Incarcerated people subjected to discipline proceedings, who are locked in solitary confinement, fined, and deprived of basic privileges like phone calls and visits with loved ones, are at increased risk of acute and ongoing mental and physical harm, and even dying in custody, if these laws pass.”

The reforms in question, which are set to pass the NSW Legislative Council today, change the standard of proof for correctional centre offences so findings of guilt can be made on the lesser standard of “the balance of probabilities” rather than “beyond reasonable doubt”. They follow a damning NSW Ombudsman investigation that exposed a shocking culture of lawlessness within Corrective Services.

Greens MP, spokesperson for Justice and solicitor Sue Higginson said:

“First Nations peak bodies and legal experts are incredibly concerned at the Minns Government’s attempt to let our prison system off the hook after the Ombudsman exposed serious maladministration and law-breaking in the inmate discipline system to the detriment of at risk vulnerable inmates,”

“We know the inmate discipline system is used, often unlawfully, to place inmates in solitary confinement, to impose some of the harshest removals of privileges in the developed world, and to fine inmates,”

“The only person the Corrections Minister has consulted with on this Bill, other than the Premier it would seem, is the leadership of the prison guard’s union, he has clearly snubbed legal experts and First Nations peak bodies even though these laws fly in the face of the advice of the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody,”

“It’s shocking that the Minns Labor Government introduced a Bill that will increase the risk of First Nations deaths in custody during the same week the Coroner released a statement saying we were in the worst year for First Nations deaths in custody on record,”

“The Minns Labor Government is ignoring the Ombudsman, who explicitly warned against watering down these standards. The Parliament’s own Legislative Review Committee has warned these laws may contravene international law, by increasing the likelihood of solitary confinement and by denying incarcerated people the presumption of innocence,”

“NSW Labor needs to take the deaths in custody crisis seriously, and that means sitting down with First Nations people and experts to hold our prison system accountable for lawlessness and harm. This Bill does the exact opposite, it endorses more punishment against at risk vulnerable First Nations people in law,” Ms Higginson said.

Newcastle Museum invites adults to rediscover creativity through new workshop series

City of Newcastle has launched a new hands-on program designed to spark curiosity, creativity and connection at Newcastle Museum.

Led by resident artist and educator Ken O’Regan, the Make N Do workshops encourage participants to get their creative juices flowing with guided and open-ended activities inspired by history, science and the Museum’s current exhibitions.

Local artist Ken O’Regan guides participants through creative activities during the Make N Do workshops at Newcastle MuseumLocal artist Ken O’Regan guides participants through creative activities during the Make N Do workshops at Newcastle Museum

City of Newcastle Director of Museum, Archive, Libraries and Learning Julie Baird said Make N Do is part of the Museum’s commitment to offering creative, inclusive spaces that foster community connection.

“Make N Do gives adults permission to create for the sake of creativity,” Ms Baird.

“It invites people to step away from their screens, slow down and explore the joy of making something with our hands.

“When we make, we shift our focus, calm the mind and open new neural pathways. It’s not about skill level or perfection, it’s about curiosity, experimentation and connection.

“Our programs at Newcastle Museum are always well-received and highly valued by the community. We know hands-on workshops like this bring people together in meaningful ways and provide a fun, welcoming space for adults to explore their creativity.”

The workshop series kicked off on Thursday 13 November, and will run each Thursday until 4 December, taking inspiration from the Model Newcastle exhibition.

Participants at the first session were invited to design and build miniature homes or imaginative structures using everyday recyclable materials. 

Following the first four weeks, Make N Do will continue as an ongoing series in 2026, while group bookings and tailored workshops for community and disability support groups are also available on request.

The free workshops run from 2pm to 4pm on each Thursday, with all materials provided. Bookings are essential via the Museum’s website. For group or accessibility enquiries, contact Newcastle Museum via enquiries@newcastlemuseum.com.au or 4974 1400.

Minns Labor Government introduces legislation to support coal-producing communities

The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to secure the future of NSW’s coal-producing communities by introducing legislation to establish the Future Jobs and Investment Authority.

The statutory authority will partner with all levels of government, industry and the community to unlock investment opportunities and facilitate new opportunities for jobs.

Around 90% of NSW coal is shipped to nearly 30 countries, and demand for our high-quality product remains strong. With around 40 mines in operation across the Hunter, Illawarra, Central West and North West, coal is NSW’s number one export.

The coal industry delivers $2.7 billion each year through economic activity and royalties that flow back to the people of NSW – while supporting thousands of regional jobs.

The legislation has been drafted following extensive consultation with industry bodies, mine operators, unions, universities, business groups, local councils, local advocacy and community groups across all four regions.

Local Divisions will be established in each coal-producing region, ensuring decisions reflect local priorities and community voices.

The Bill gives the Authority powers and functions to:

  • attract investment to create new jobs and industries
  • facilitate post mining land use for productive purposes
  • lead genuine community engagement through the four Local Divisions
  • report on mine closures to keep communities informed
  • provide workforce support.

New regulatory requirements will require coal mine operators begin planning to support their workers for the future.

Coal mine operators will be required to provide at least 3 years’ notice prior to closure. This is a similar requirement to the existing provisions for coal-fired power stations. Notification will also require coal mine operators to share information with the government on how they intend to support their workforce in the lead up to and following closure of the mine. These features are crucial to guarantee workers are placed at the heart of the decision-making process.

These new obligations will give the authority a better understanding of the timeline of mine closures, helping government, unions and communities prepare.

Failure to report or prepare workforce plans will be enforced by the authority, including through financial penalties.

To reinforce transparency and accountability, the legislation mandates that the authority report annually to the NSW Parliament. This key feature is designed to demonstrate the authority’s progress and performance. A further statutory review will be undertaken after 3 years of the legislation commencing to ensure the authority remains agile and responsive to the expected shifts in the coal sector.

Further targeted consultation will take place on the finalisation of regulations to support the objectives of the authority once the legislation passes the Parliament. The Future Jobs and Investment Authority is backed by a $27.3 million investment across four years to support its establishment and operations. In addition, the Future Jobs and Investment Fund will unlock more than $110 million to fund projects supported by the authority.

More information about the Future Jobs and Investment Authority is available at www.nsw.gov.au/fjia.

Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos said:

“Our coal regions have powered NSW for generations. Now, we’re investing in their future by helping workers gain new skills and seize opportunities in a growing, diversified economy.

“Coal mine workers are the backbone of regional coal communities. The authority ensures their needs are front and centre as we build a stronger future for coal-producing communities.

“Thank you to everyone who was part of our consultation process, and for your valuable input as we deliver this important election commitment. Getting this framework right is critical to ensuring coal regions have the support they need into the future

“The authority will drive investment and create new opportunities, supporting new jobs and industries that will sustain regional communities.”

Trainees across Western NSW step into next stage of healthcare careers

Twenty-nine trainees from across Western NSW Local Health District have proudly marked the completion of their studies at a graduation ceremony in Dubbo, stepping into the next stage of their careers in healthcare.

Seventeen trainees, including seven Aboriginal trainees, graduated from the Adult Traineeships program, which offers opportunities to earn a qualification while gaining hands-on experience in a range of different disciplines, including Health Service Assistance.

A dozen Year 11 and 12 students also completed their School-Based Apprenticeship and Traineeship (SBAT) studies, including seven Aboriginal trainees funded by the NSW Government’s Elsa Dixon Aboriginal Employment Grant.

Delivered in partnership with the Department of Education, the SBAT program provides students the chance to earn an industry-recognised qualification, working 100 days of paid work experience over two years while studying as part of their Higher School Certificate.

Trainees graduated with qualifications in a range of disciplines, including Human Resources Management, Cookery, Dental Assisting and Business Administration, which have all been offered for the first time this year.

For more information on WNSWLHD’s scholarship, traineeship, and cadetship programs visit the WNSWLHD website.

Regional Health Minister Ryan Park:

“I never fail to be impressed by all the trainees across our health system. No matter your age or background, completing study while also working takes incredible dedication and drive, not to mention excellent time management.

“I wholeheartedly congratulate all 29 trainees from Western NSW who have graduated this year, and I’m thrilled to see so many completing studies in disciplines offered for the very first time in 2025.

“These programs provide wonderful opportunities for people in our regional communities to kick-start their careers, whether that be by moving directly into employment, undertaking further training or heading to university.”

Labor Spokesperson for Dubbo Stephen Lawrence

“I offer my sincere congratulations to all of Western NSW Local Health District’s graduates and wish them all the very best. These qualifications will open up a great number of opportunities for these graduates, and they should all be very proud of themselves.

“These courses and programs don’t just help to create industry-ready graduates, they also provide pathways into early entry at university. I’m certain as their careers develop, they will have a huge impact on their communities.”

WNSWLHD Executive Director of People and Culture Sandra Duff:

“We’re so delighted to be able to offer this kind of opportunity to people in our communities. This year’s group of graduates are from all corners of the District have different backgrounds and bring an incredible range of life experience.

“We have graduates from major centres like Bathurst, Orange and Dubbo, but importantly well over half of this year’s group are from smaller towns in regions like Dunedoo, Walgett, Molong, Nyngan and Goodooga.

“Along with our senior school students we also have graduates of all ages in our Adult Traineeship program. Their dedication and commitment has been incredible, we can’t congratulate them enough.

“I’m also really thrilled to see the vast majority of our graduates have either indicated they would like to continue working in our Local Health District or have already been directly appointed to roles. Several are also now planning to further their studies, many at university, primarily in nursing.”

New Patient Extrication Vessels boost NSW Ambulance flood rescue capability

Communities impacted by floods are set to benefit from an additional boost to the NSW Ambulance flood rescue fleet, with eight new patient extrication vessels being rolled out for use across the state.

The seven-metre aluminium utility boats, with bow-loader for patient access can hold up to seven people, giving NSW Ambulance greater capability to deliver care to patients in areas impacted by floods. 

The vessels come complete with twin 60 horsepower outboard engines for rapid response in hazardous environments.

The benefits of these larger boats include patient rescue from isolated areas, on-water rescue and ability to transport specialised clinicians, such as doctors and extended care paramedics, to communities that are isolated due to floods.

Supplies and medical equipment can also be transported by the vessels, which were built in Yamba on the NSW north coast.

Over the coming months, Special Operations Unit paramedics will continue specialised training to operate the new boats,  which will be progressively rolled out to regional heavy rescue stations across the state including Tamworth, Rutherford, Cowra, Wagga Wagga and Bomaderry as well as at the Special Operation Team locations of Point Clare and Sydney.

The eight new vessels are designed to be a statewide asset in emergency responses and will be deployed to areas of need as required.

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“NSW Ambulance continues to enhance its capabilities to deliver urgent health care to patients in need, no matter where they are located.

“Specialised equipment such as these new rescue boats allow NSW Ambulance paramedics to respond to patients quickly as well as transport vital equipment and specialised staff to remote areas to provide much needed care.”

NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan:

“These new vessels will be invaluable when communities are cut off by flood waters, as we will have greater access to patients, bringing them highly trained health professionals and medical supplies.

“These assets also increase our capability to transport paramedics, doctors and nurses to remote towns that have been impacted by floods to keep our communities safe and cared for.”

Minns Labor Government giving police, courts greater powers to combat Nazism and racial hatred

The Minns Labor Government is introducing amendments into the NSW Parliament cracking down on public displays of Nazi ideology by giving police and courts greater powers to hold extremists who express these abhorrent views to account.

The Crimes Act 1900 will be amended to ban conduct which indicates support for Nazi ideology by invoking imagery or characteristics associated with Nazism without reasonable excuse and in public. This includes conduct such as Nazi chants or slogans.

While Nazi symbols are already banned in NSW, the disgraceful rally outside the Parliament earlier this month highlighted the need to strengthen current laws.

These measures further protect the community from vile Nazism which has no place in New South Wales.

Under the reforms being introduced into NSW Parliament today, someone who engages in this conduct will face up to a year’s imprisonment or a maximum fine of $11,000.

Stronger penalties – up to two years’ imprisonment or a $22,000 fine – will apply to someone who commits this offence near a synagogue, Jewish school or the Sydney Jewish Museum.

The Crimes and Summary Offences Amendment Bill 2025 will also introduce new powers allowing police to order a perpetrator the take down of a suspected Nazi symbol.

Refusing to follow this direction without reasonable excuse will become an offence punishable by a maximum fine of $2,200 or up to three months’ imprisonment.

The Bill will elevate the seriousness of new and existing offences relating to Nazi conduct and Nazi symbols. This means perpetrators will be able to be tried on indictment at the District Court.

It also means NSW Police will be able to order someone to reveal their identity, if the information is reasonably suspected to aid an investigation for an alleged Nazi symbol or Nazi conduct offence.

The amendments will also clarify that people can be charged with these offences even if a public assembly is authorised, putting this beyond any doubt. This includes the offence of inciting racial hatred.  

The Government will refer these amendments for consideration by the Legislative Assembly Committee on Law and Safety. This will give Parliament the time to carefully consider these important matters.

The Government will also remove the three-year sunset clause on the offence of inciting racial hatred to ensure ongoing community protection. We opposed the introduction of the sunset clause which was supported by the Coalition and the Greens earlier this year. These reforms build on ongoing work by the Minns Labor Government to protect the community against racial hatred including making it an offence to: 

  • Intentionally and publicly incite racial hatred
  • Harass, intimidate, threaten, block or hinder someone entering or leaving a place of worship
  • Display a Nazi symbol on or near a synagogue, Jewish school or Sydney Jewish Museum
     

The Government has also expanded the aggravating factor for offences motivated by racial hatred or prejudice.

Attorney General Michael Daley said:

“The deplorable stunt we saw outside NSW Parliament has no place in our society. Nobody should be subject to this vile hatred because of their background or faith.

“We are giving police and the courts additional powers to hold Nazi extremists to account for their abhorrent views.

“These tough new laws are complemented by the suite of legislation the Government has already put in place to protect against racial vilification and hatred.”

Strata overhaul reaches final milestone as fourth reform bill is introduced to NSW Parliament

More than 1.2 million people who live in strata homes across the state are set to benefit from another suite of reforms being introduced to NSW Parliament in the final stage of the Minns Labor Government’s ambitious program to modernise strata laws.

The new legislation is the Minns Labor Government’s fourth strata reform package since March 2023 and finalises the legislative response to the recommendations made in a 2021 statutory review of strata laws, following inaction by the former government.

The Strata Schemes Legislation Amendment (Miscellaneous) Bill 2025 forms part of the Government’s holistic approach to addressing the housing challenge and will ensure that the State’s strata laws give people the confidence to live and invest in strata.

Reforms in the Bill include:

  • Allowing compliance action taken by NSW Fair Trading against an owners corporation to be proactively published so prospective buyers can know if there are any issues with repairs and maintenance in the building,
  • Giving owners the right to install electric vehicle charging stations on their own lot without fear of unreasonable objection from their strata committee,
  • Better protect owners corporations with embedded network supply agreements, such as for electricity, so they are not charged unfair infrastructure costs if they terminate an agreement,
  • Removing unnecessary red tape for two-lot schemes such as duplexes, which make up more than 30 per cent of strata schemes, so they no longer need to form committees, hold meetings and submit annual reports to NSW Fair Trading,
  • Setting fair limits on when an owners corporation can charge strata residents a bond or fee, for example bonds for access keys or swipe cards that are exorbitantly higher than the replacement cost will no longer be allowed,
  • Allowing the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal to terminate an owners corporation’s agreement with a building manager if they breach their duties.

This Bill follows three earlier tranches of strata reforms, which include:

  • Increased penalties for strata managing agents who don’t disclose conflicts of interest or kickbacks to owners,
  • Requiring payment plans to be offered to owners in financial hardship before debt recovery action can be taken and prohibiting blanket rules to refuse payment plan requests,
  • A world-first in strata regulation by allowing NSW Fair Trading to issue compliance notices and enter enforceable undertakings with owners corporations that do not meet their duties to maintain and repair common property. This will ensure serious maintenance issues and defects can be fixed without expensive and time-consuming litigation through the courts or tribunal,
  • Protections for owners from bill shock by requiring developers to have initial levy estimates in new strata buildings to be independently certified, including increased penalties for non-compliance,
  • Banning strata managing agents from taking a commission on insurance products when they don’t play a role in finding the best deal for owners,
  • Introducing itemised insurance quotes so owners know exactly how much is going to agents and brokers in commissions and fees,
  • Making it easier for owners to do minor renovations,
  • Removing barriers to the uptake of sustainability measures such as solar panels and electric vehicle charging by prohibiting bylaws that block the infrastructure due to external appearance,
  • Ensuring goods and services are obtained at competitive prices, by requiring owners corporations to get a second quote when the bill for work will be over $30,000. 

This Bill also follows NSW Fair Trading’s recent steps to make it easier for people living in strata to find the right strata manager, and to better understand the strata insurance broker fees they are paying. The Strata Managing Agent Engagement Planner on the NSW Strata Hub helps people assess their current and prospective strata management fees by giving like-for-like comparisons on costs and services from different strata managing agents.

NSW Fair Trading has also this week released a report by John Trowbridge OAM which examines insurance broker fees and commissions on strata insurance. The Benchmarking Strata Insurance Broker Pricing report sets out the typical prices strata insurance brokers charge for their services and gives consumers an understanding of what they may reasonably be expected to be charged by insurance brokers arranging insurances.

Feedback from key stakeholders has informed the final Bill to ensure it will deliver intended benefits and meet the evolving needs of strata residents, owners, industry and the broader community. For more information on strata law changes, please visit: www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/fair-trading/news/changes-to-strata-laws

Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“If we want more people living in higher-density developments, then we need to make the experience of strata living as attractive as possible.

“Effective and transparent strata management is a significant part of this Government’s plan to improve housing quality in New South Wales, and we are delivering on it. 

“This final suite of legislative changes in response to the statutory review into strata laws is a key milestone for NSW.

“This ensures our laws are up to date for what is expected when living in multi-dwelling complexes.”

Strata and Property Services Commissioner Angus Abadee said:

“While this has been a huge uplift in the rights for residents and responsibilities for owners corporations, it is not the end of the journey for modernising strata living.

“Work will continue to ensure the benefits of the Government’s strata reform agenda are not only realised but sustained through fair, transparent, and responsive regulation.

“These changes ensure we have the right rules for strata – backed up with more support from NSW Fair Trading to ensure strata living is fair for all.”

Backing buskers: delivering a soundtrack to Sydney’s harbour precincts

The Minns Labor Government is increasing busking locations across The Rocks, Darling Harbour and Barangaroo by nearly two thirds.

Our harbour precincts already host 22 existing busking locations. As part of our ongoing vibrancy reforms we’re turning up the volume, working with the busking community to deliver 16 new locations. 

The additional locations include:

  • Four spots in Barangaroo, bringing busking to Barangaroo for the first time
  • Seven additional spots in The Rocks
  • Five additional spots in Darling Harbour

The Rocks, Darling Harbour and Barangaroo attract millions of tourists and locals every month, making them the perfect place to platform talented street performers.

The additional busking locations are now available and have been selected based on existing suitability assessments and engagement with the busking community to make sure they meet their needs.

This builds on the Minns Labor Governments on-going vibrancy agenda which has recently seen event caps lifted and red tape around entertainment, outdoor dining and events slashed.

For more information visit:  The Rocks, Darling Harbour or Barangaroo.

Minister for the Music and Night-time Economy John Graham said:

“We want more busking on our streets, not less. That’s why we’re unlocking new places for buskers to play – and new places for people to enjoy their performances.

“Welcoming more music into the streets of Sydney’s harbour precincts makes sense. Busking brings our city streets alive, buskers surprise and entertain locals and visitors alike.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“We are backing in Sydney’s busking community, boosting arts and culture and bringing back fun.

“The Rocks, Darling Harbour and Barangaroo are hubs of activity which welcome millions of locals and visitors, expanding the busking activity here will bring a soundtrack to our streets as people explore the city.

“This is another example of the Minns Labor Government unlocking opportunities which support Sydney to be a bustling and vibrant city.”

Busker Roshani Sriyani Everett said:
“I’ve spent years busking around The Rocks and Circular Quay, and some of my favourite memories were made there — playing by the water, connecting with people from all over the world, and feeling the city come alive around me.

“Busking gave me a stage when I had no stage, and I’ll always be grateful for the way those streets supported my music and helped me grow.

“I fully support the introduction of new busking spots in the Barangaroo precinct. Live music brings a place to life, creates real connection, and gives artists a chance to grow while adding colour and energy to the community.”

NSW Government strengthens guardrails around digital safety in workplaces

Modern workplaces are evolving, with digital work systems offering enormous potential to boost efficiency and unlock creativity, drive productivity, innovation, and job opportunities.

However, guardrails are required around the safety of these tools’ use in workplaces. That is why the Minns Labor Government is introducing legislation to safeguard the wellbeing of workers.  

The proposed reforms to Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws clarifies the responsibility around the use of digital work systems.  A Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) will be required to ensure these important tools do not lead to unsafe workloads, unreasonable performance tracking, excessive surveillance or discriminatory work allocation.   

This clarifies and adds to the existing workplace safety duties under the Work Health and Safety Act (2011) that require employers to provide safe workplaces. By embracing technology responsibly, NSW is setting the standard for workplaces that are innovative, productive, and safe for everyone. 

The Minns Labor Government has also committed to continuing to work with other jurisdictions through the SafeWork Australia process on how digital systems can be kept safe at work.  This Bill provides for a review provision if model WHS laws are developed by SafeWork Australia which address the same subject matter to ensure alignment with model laws.

The Bill responds to relevant recommendations of the Select Committee on the Impact of Technological and Other Change on the Future of Work and Workers in NSW (reported in 2022) regarding the rise of digital systems and their real impacts on worker psychosocial health. The committee received 53 submissions and held seven public hearings. The committee also conducted a site visit to the Amazon Distribution Centre.

This reform follows the Minns Labor Government’s broader packages aimed at creating better, safer workplaces, which prevent injuries before they occur, support injured workers to recover faster, and ensure the workers compensation scheme remains sustainable for business. These reforms include: 

  • Establishing SafeWork NSW as a standalone regulator, including 20 new psychosocial focused inspectors targeting psychosocial harm to identify risks early.
  • A new Psychosocial Advisory Service that will provide advice to businesses and workers on how to manage psychosocial safety in the workplace
  • A $344 million Workplace Mental Health package, strengthening mental health support and injury prevention strategies in NSW workplaces. 

Minister for Industrial Relations Sophie Cotsis said:

“As digital systems become more common in workplaces, the Minns Labor Government is making sure that these systems help businesses without undermining the health and safety of workers. 

“This is about protecting workers’ mental health, preventing harm before it occurs, and giving everyone confidence that workplace technology is used responsibly.

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to strengthening a culture of prevention, early intervention, recovery, and effective return to work through a series of reforms. If a system tracks you, times you, and pushes you beyond safe limits – it’s not innovation, its exploitation.

“These include major reforms to SafeWork NSW, including investing in more inspectors to focus on psychosocial harm prevention.”