Month: March 2026

The Minns Labor Government is supporting councils and councillors across NSW to work more closely with Aboriginal people, organisations and communities to help close the gap with the launch of a new toolkit developed in partnership with Local Government NSW and the Coalition of Aboriginal Peak Organisations (CAPO).

The NSW Closing the Gap Toolkit for Local Government includes practical examples and case studies from across NSW, templates for planning and policy making and a self-assessment tool to guide councils on their progress.

The toolkit is a key initiative that came out of the NSW Closing the Gap Partnership Agreement, which was signed by the NSW Government, NSW CAPO and Local Government NSW in February 2024.

Local councils are often the closest level of government to Aboriginal communities, particularly in regional and remote areas. This means councils are well positioned to work in partnership with Aboriginal organisations to support local Aboriginal-led Closing the Gap initiatives and deliver benefits to the community.

The new toolkit includes guidance for how councils can align their strategic operational planning with each of the Closing the Gap Priority Reforms, with case studies from across NSW including Tamworth Regional, Orange City and Inner West Councils.

As a case in point, in 2025, Tamworth Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (TACCO) and Tamworth Regional Council signed Australia’s first formal Closing the Gap partnership between an Aboriginal community-controlled organisation and a local council.

The development of such partnerships aligns with ‘Priority Reform 1, ‘formal partnership and shared decision making’, from the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.

Councils can also use a new self-assessment tool to determine their areas of strength and opportunities for improvement in how they work with Aboriginal communities and organisations in their region.

The toolkit is now available to download: https://lgnsw.org.au/Public/Public/Policy/Closing-the-Gap-Toolkit/close-the-gap.aspx

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said:

“The NSW Government is committed to working in partnership with Aboriginal people to Close the Gap.

“When Aboriginal voices are at the centre of decision-making, solutions are more effective, locally relevant, and the evidence shows it leads to better outcomes.

“All levels of government – local, state and federal – must work together, in genuine partnership with Aboriginal people and communities to make real change.

“This toolkit is about ensuring every council — regardless of size — can play their part in Closing the Gap in partnership with Aboriginal communities.”
Local Government NSW President, Mayor Darcy Byrne said:

“Across NSW, councils continue to do some extraordinary work with their local Aboriginal communities. I am proud of the local government sector in NSW for leading by example in our concerted effort at Closing the Gap.

“This toolkit gives councils practical ways to continue to strengthen how we plan, partner and deliver with Aboriginal communities. By working in genuine partnership, we can build trust, support shared decision making and achieve better outcomes for everyone.

“This toolkit strengthens the way councils work alongside Aboriginal communities, supporting more meaningful and effective collaboration. Councils understand that when decisions are shaped locally, the results are better for everyone. “

NSW CAPO Co-Chair Cr Charles Lynch said:

“Closing the Gap is a shared responsibility across all levels of government. Under the National Agreement, decisions that affect Aboriginal people need to be made through formal partnership and shared decision-making.

“Local government plays a critical role in communities across NSW, particularly in regional and remote areas.

“We welcome this commitment from LGNSW and the development of this toolkit as a practical step to support councils to work in partnership with Aboriginal communities and organisations, and deliver on their commitments under the National Agreement.

“We look forward to working alongside LGNSW to strengthen local partnerships and ensure that Closing the Gap is implemented in a way that delivers tangible outcomes on the ground.”

As thousands of students across NSW have commenced the academic year this week at university, TAFE and other vocational education, NSW Fair Trading is reminding renters to keep their rental rights in mind before they sign on the dotted line.

With more than 431,000 students enrolled across NSW universities, and a further 218,465 enrolled in TAFE, many young people will be moving out of home for the first time. This monumental life change makes it crucial for students and other first-time renters to understand their protections and obligations before signing a lease. 

Students entering into leases should understand their rights and responsibilities in NSW, including:

• Always have a written lease agreement: A written agreement outlines key terms, such as rent amounts, how often you pay rent, bond requirements, and other responsibilities. The landlord must give you a copy of the signed lease agreement – that includes their full contact details and, if there is agent, the contact details of the agent.
• Know how a rental bond works: A bond cannot be more than four weeks’ rent and is fully refundable at the end of the tenancy, provided there is no unpaid rent or damage. Landlords and agents must lodge all bonds with NSW Fair Trading.
• Understand landlord responsibilities: Landlords have several legal responsibilities they must meet under a tenancy agreement, including providing and maintaining the property in a safe, liveable condition and completing necessary repairs.
• Know your rights when it comes to evictions: Landlords and agents must have valid grounds to evict a renter and must follow the correct legal process. No-grounds evictions are now banned in NSW.
• Where to seek support: If students are unsure about their rights or responsibilities, they can contact NSW Fair Trading for information and guidance on rental matters, including bonds, rent, and repairs. NSW Fair Trading can also assist renters and their landlord or agent in resolving disputes about their tenancy agreement.
• Where to seek legal assistance: To find your nearest Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service, visit www.tenants.org.au or call 1800 251 101.

Students should also be aware of the landmark rental reforms introduced by the Minns Labor Government, which have created new protections for renters.

These changes include:

• Limiting rental increases to once a year.
• Giving renters security by banning no-grounds evictions.
• Saving renters money by mandating fee-free ways to pay their rent.
• Banning solicited rent bidding so renters can’t be coerced into offering higher rent to secure a place to live.
• Funding the NSW Rental Taskforce to protect renters by enforcing the new laws.
• Delivering the free Rent Check website so people can be sure what they’re asking to pay in rent is fair.

For more information on your rights as a renter, please visit the NSW Fair Trading website.

For more information on sharing a rental property, please visit the NSW Fair Trading website.

Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“Students deserve stability and certainty when securing a home, and the Minns Labor Government’s landmark rental reforms help ensure they get exactly that.

“This Government has banned no-grounds evictions, funded crucial tools and delivered tangible policies to help renters save money – and we want everyone to know about it.

“Renters deserve to enjoy the full extent of these changes, especially if they’re entering into their first lease.   

“That’s why we’re making it easier to understand your rights, manage costs, and feel secure in your living arrangements.”

NSW Rental Commissioner Trina Jones said:

“Renting as a student has long been a rite of passage for young people, but understanding rental rights and obligations early helps prevent disputes and ensures a safe, fair living arrangement.

“Starting tertiary study is an exciting milestone, and for many students it’s the first time living out of home. We want young renters to feel confident, informed, and protected when securing accommodation.

“We encourage all students to take the time to read their rental agreements, ask questions, and never sign anything they don’t fully understand. Students are encouraged to contact NSW Fair Trading to report breaches of rental laws.”

The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its election commitment to employ an extra 1,000 apprentices across NSW Government agencies, with 71 new apprentices and trainees kicking off their careers at Transport for NSW worksites this month.

From filling potholes to rebuilding flood‑damaged roads, planning major works and maintaining heavy vehicles, the new Roads Maintenance and Resilience recruits will join and support frontline teams strengthening the state’s transport network.

Following group inductions in Wollongong, Newcastle and Dubbo, the new recruits will soon get their hands on the tools.

They join an existing group of 92 apprentices and trainees progressing through the program from previous intakes.

More than just a foot in the door, the program offers the chance to make a real impact on the daily lives of people who rely on the roads, bridges and connections these teams help maintain.

Participants have the opportunity to earn and learn on the job while developing practical skills in their chosen field from civil construction and bridge maintenance to heavy diesel mechanics, business, finance and project management.

They walk away with a nationally recognised qualification while contributing to essential work that keeps communities safe and connected.

This year’s intake reflects the Minns Government’s focus on growing skilled jobs across regional NSW, with almost 90 per cent of new positions based outside Sydney. These entry‑level roles are helping build a strong pipeline of skilled workers ready to support the future transport needs of the state.

This investment is part of the Minns Labor Government’s record $3.4 billion in TAFE NSW and skills funding in the 2025-26 Budget which includes:

• $40.2 million over two years towards fee free apprenticeships and traineeships
• $13.8 million Construction Workforce Package
• $121 million to repair TAFE NSW campuses across the state
• $78 million to continue converting eligible teachers from casual to permanent roles.

Find out more about the Transport for NSW Apprentice and Trainee Program

Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison, said:

“We are getting more apprentices on the tools to repair and maintain NSW roads.

“These 71 new apprentices and trainees are proof that the Minns Labor Government is backing local jobs while strengthening the roads our communities rely on every day.

“From filling potholes and repairing flood damage to maintaining bridges and heavy vehicles, these recruits are making a real contribution from day one.

“With almost 90 per cent of roles based in regional NSW, we are building a strong pipeline of skilled workers who will keep our transport network safe, reliable and resilient into the future.”

Acting Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, David Harris, said:

“This program shows how the Minns Labor Government is working to deliver on its commitment to create an extra 1,000 apprenticeships and traineeships across NSW Government agencies to grow the skilled workforce our state needs.

“Through on the job training as apprentices and trainees, these recruits are earning while they learn and gaining skills that set them up for great, long-term careers.

“We are creating real pathways into meaningful work, particularly in regional communities, so local people can build their futures close to home.”

Member for Wallsend, Sonia Hornery, said:

“It is fantastic to see new apprentices and trainees starting their careers here in our region, including at the Waratah Depot.

“These young workers are gaining practical skills on live projects while helping maintain the roads and bridges our local community depends on.

“This investment strengthens our local workforce and ensures we have the capability to deliver the infrastructure our growing communities need.”

Deputy Secretary, Road Maintenance and Resilience, Transport for NSW, Matt Fuller said:

“This program gives people real skills, real experience and a recognised qualification—while boosting the capability of our workforce across NSW.

“As they build their skills on live sites, they’re helping lift the resilience of our transport network and supporting the teams who keep NSW moving.”

Maddi Ormsby, Bridge construction & Maintenance Apprentice said:

“The Bridge Construction and Maintenance apprenticeship really appealed to me because it meant I’d get to do hands on work outdoors.

“There’s such a great mix of bridges we look after—everything from concrete and timber structures to heritage ones. We don’t just maintain them; we get the chance to build them too, and we work across all sorts of locations.

“I’ve only been in the job a few weeks, and I’ve already had the opportunity to travel and work in Singleton, Muswellbrook, Dunmore and Dungog.”

Harrison Hudson, Operational Management Systems Trainee said:

“The traineeship was appealing since the location was much closer to home than my previous job, and it felt like a great opportunity to learn new things, give back to my community, and grow my career.

“I knew that once you get started at Transport, a traineeship can possibly open the door to future opportunities down the track.

“I’m really enjoying it so far. The people I have met at Transport are welcoming and friendly, which made it easy to settle in, and everyone has been so helpful and supportive.”

Blayney and surrounding communities are benefitting from new and enhanced aged care and hospital services, with the first stage of the Blayney Multipurpose Service commissioned recently and residents moved in.

Stage 1 includes a new residential aged care wing featuring single rooms with private bathrooms, additional inpatient beds and chair-based services with space for future expansion.

A comprehensive, coordinated relocation prior to opening ensured a smooth transition for staff and health services, as well as for aged-care residents who are enjoying more contemporary, comfortable and home-like rooms and facilities.

Aged-care residents and their families were invited to tour the new areas of the facility prior to moving in and the opening, following a Community Walkthrough which welcomed more than 100 people.

The next phase of the project will now focus on demolition of the existing buildings and construction of the facility’s new HealthOne, reception, entry, waiting room, staff area and ambulatory zone. Construction is expected to be complete in 2027.

The Blayney Multipurpose Service (MPS) redevelopment is being delivered in stages to ensure the community can continue to access the same level of clinical services, including those in the existing facility, without impact while construction is undertaken.

The Blayney MPS redevelopment is being delivered by Health Infrastructure and Western NSW Local Health District, in partnership with Taylor Construction Group.

For more information on the project, visit the Blayney Multipurpose Service Redevelopment website.

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park

“This is a significant milestone for this project and the community. It brings the people of Blayney and its surrounding areas closer to having the new and modern Multipurpose Service they need and deserve.

“The opening of the first stage of the redevelopment strengthens local health services significantly, and ensures residents can access care close to home in a modern, purpose-built facility.

“The Minns Government is delivering the health services regional communities need and deserve.”

Labor Spokesperson for Bathurst Stephen Lawrence

“It’s fantastic to see the first stage of the Blayney MPS redevelopment open for aged care residents and patients. This an exciting step and a proud moment for the health service and the whole community.

“The new areas of the MPS are impressive and will help the dedicated staff continue delivering the exceptional care they’re known for. I’m excited to see the project continue to progress, and to see the finished product when complete.”

Blayney Health Service Manager Kathleen Hillier

“It has been really exciting the see our aged care residents moving into their new rooms and enjoying a new level of comfort, we worked incredibly hard to make sure the new aged care wing felt far more like home.

“Staff, aged care residents and their families were all involved in the planning and design of this stage of work, which was important to make sure the new facility was tailored to their needs now and as years go on.

“Our community can expect to see plenty of activity on the next phase of works soon, but I know even this initial stage will make a huge difference to the experiences of not just our aged care residents, but also our staff, patients and families as well.”

Communities across NSW will receive a boost for emergency health care as more regional paramedics are recruited and a new class of paramedic interns and emergency call takers is inducted into their roles.

500 Regional Paramedics

An additional 125 paramedics will begin working across regional NSW in coming months as part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to deliver 500 additional paramedics to regional, rural and remote areas.

These paramedics are the third group to join NSW Ambulance as part of the regional 500, joining 250 others who are already on the road.

Paramedics have already started in Grafton, and more will start in Gunnedah, Tea Gardens, and Tweed Heeds from Saturday, 28 February 2026. Additional locations will be announced in coming months.

NSW Ambulance has been consulting with staff and the Health Services Union about the proposed locations with consultation ongoing.

The additional paramedics will help optimise response times and patient outcomes as well as provide support to existing paramedics who continue to provide world-class emergency and mobile healthcare across regional NSW.

The Minns Government will continue to roll out the additional 500 paramedics for regional NSW next year, with future locations determined through NSW Ambulance’s evidence based, best practice service and workforce planning as well as consultation with staff and the Health Services Union.

In 2024, Ballina, Bathurst, Broken Hill, Goulburn, Kangaroo Valley, Lismore, Lithgow, Mudgee, Parkes, Port Macquarie, South West Rocks and Tottenham received additional paramedics as part of the first tranche of the regional 500 program.

As part of the second tranche in 2025, Albury, Blayney, Deniliquin, Dubbo, Moree, Orange, Tamworth South, Temora, Wagga Wagga, Yamba and Young received additional paramedics.

The Minns Labor Government is also investing $10 million into health worker housing for paramedics in regional NSW as part of the $200.1 million Key Health Worker Accommodation program.

Paramedic Interns and Emergency Call Takers

NSW Ambulance has also welcomed 118 new paramedic interns and 26 trainee emergency medical call takers, who were officially inducted in a ceremony at the State Operations Centre in Sydney Olympic Park today.

Following a successful 2025 which saw more than 1,000 paramedic interns and emergency medical call takers join the workforce, 2026 is starting off strong by delivering a significant boost to frontline healthcare services across the state.

These latest recruits bring a diverse range of skills and experiences to NSW Ambulance, including paramedic intern Tomas Scone, a former Australian Defence Force infantry soldier, and trainee emergency medical call taker Jillian Suggate, who formerly worked with the NSW Reconstruction Authority and disaster relief initiatives overseas.

The paramedic interns will now commence the on-road phase of their 12-month internship, working at locations across NSW before transitioning into permanent roles in both metropolitan and regional communities.

The trainee emergency medical call takers will be posted to the Sydney, Northern and Western control centres.

Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park: 

“This boost to the paramedic workforce ensures patients right across NSW continue to receive the highest quality emergency medical care, regardless of where they live.

“We are rebuilding our emergency health services by investing in our paramedics. Our commitment to recruit 500 regional paramedics is already helping deliver world-class emergency care to regional and rural communities.

“We know how critical timely healthcare is, and these new roles will help improve outcomes for patients and their families.”

Gerard Hayes AM, Secretary, HSU NSW:

“These additional paramedics are welcome news not only for our regional communities, but also the existing NSW Ambulance staff who are critically important to these areas outside our cities.”

“By investing in more paramedics, the Minns Labor Government is also investing in the wellbeing of our crews on the ground, allowing them to continue doing amazing, life saving work to the highest standard.”

NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan: 

“This latest group of paramedics represents another important step in building a stronger, more resilient emergency care network across regional NSW.

“Our clinicians do an incredible job, at times under challenging circumstances, and these additional resources will provide vital support and help reduce pressure on existing staff.

“As demand for services grows, we remain committed to delivering world-class emergency and mobile healthcare for every community we serve.”

paramedic intern Tomas Scone: 

“I was proud to serve my country, but I knew that becoming a paramedic was my real calling.

“My future aspiration is to utilise my army training and become a special operations team paramedic.”

trainee emergency medical call taker Jillian Suggate:

“Working in disaster relief helping ravaged communities was incredibly rewarding, strengthening my passion for emergency management.

“I thrive under pressure and I am looking forward to being part of a dynamic team with NSW Ambulance.”

The Public Service Association of NSW (PSA) says the Minns Government’s announcement of sweeping foster care reforms, designed to rebuild accountability and transparency across a system supporting more than 13,500 vulnerable children, is a long overdue reset after years of outsourcing failures under the Permanency Support Program.

The union, which represents child protection caseworkers in the Department of Communities and Justice, said the changes recognise what frontline staff have been warning for years: when responsibility is fragmented, children fall through the cracks.

For nearly a decade, caseworkers have operated inside a system where legal responsibility remained with government while service delivery was increasingly outsourced to non-government providers.

A three-year evaluation found the model failed its core objectives, even as funding to providers climbed to around $1 billion annually and the services delivered to children declined.

The PSA said the shift to strengthen oversight, wind down existing contracts and return decision-making authority to government agencies is essential to protecting children and restoring public confidence.

The reforms will also elevate the role of foster carers, expand recruitment, strengthen performance monitoring of providers and invest further in Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations so Aboriginal children can remain connected to kin, culture and community wherever possible.

The union said frontline workers understand the stakes better than anyone.

For years our union has been campaigning on behalf of our members in regard to the dysfunctional child protection system they were left managing by the former government,” said Troy Wright, PSA Assistant General Secretary.

Crucially last year in the Budget the Government committed funds to increase their salaries to a level that would address the workforce retention crisis, but the reforms announced today are the final missing piece.

The out-of-home care system in New South Wales has been subject to more bad reviews than a Bollywood musical and more report card fails than Bart Simpson.

“It offered poor outcomes and even worse value for the taxpayer.

“Non-Government Organisations were virtually being given open-ended cheques with no responsibilities, and when they couldn’t do the work because it was too difficult, the care of children was thrown back on a resource-starved public sector.

This will ensure the decision-making is placed with the Minister, Government and Department with the legal responsibility for children in care, and that accountability is placed on the service who accept the funding to provide it.”