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NSW Budget: $156 million boost to get North West Sydney road projects shovel-ready

The Minns Labor Government is teaming up with the Albanese Labor Government to get critical road projects shovel-ready in North West Sydney, signalling a major boost for one of the country’s fastest-growing regions.

A joint investment of $156 million, announced as part of the 2025-26 NSW State Budget, this funding will accelerate planning and development of critical upgrades in the booming suburbs of Blacktown, Rooty Hill, Marsden Park, Schofields and Rouse Hill.

The funding will lay the groundwork for construction projects that will help ease congestion and improve travel times – making it easier for North West families to get where they need to be, safer and faster.

Projects include:

$49 million in additional funding for planning upgrades and future duplication along the Richmond Road Corridor from the M7 to The Driftway in Richmond. This takes the total investment to $74 million for one of the region’s busiest and most congested arterials (NSW and Australian Government funded)
$30 million towards planning the duplication and future connection of Townson and Burdekin Roads in Schofields (NSW and Australian Government funded)
$27 million to plan the upgrade of Garfield Road West in Marsden Park (NSW and Australian Government funded), adding to the NSW Government’s existing commitment to widen Garfield Road East
$25 million for enabling works for the upgrade of Toongabbie Bridge (100 per cent Australian Government funded)
$10 million to plan for critical road infrastructure around the future Rouse Hill Hospital (with a further $10 million from the Australian Government committed), ensuring the precinct is well connected when the hospital opens. Works include:
- widening Windsor Road between Mile End Road and Commercial Road to three lanes plus a bus lane in each direction
- upgrading the Windsor Road and Commercial Road, Windsor Road and Mile End Road, and Commercial Road and Caddies Boulevard intersections
- constructing a shared path on the eastern side of Windsor Road
- delivering new and upgraded bus infrastructure with dedicated bus lanes along Windsor Road between the existing T-way and Mile End Road.
$3.5 million to plan for a new Francis Road rail overpass at Rooty Hill (100 per cent NSW Government funded)
$1.5 million for a major congestion pinch point intersection upgrade at Flushcombe and Bungarribee Roads in Blacktown (100 per cent NSW Government funded).

The North West Sydney growth area, which will be home to around 250,000 people when complete, is one of the fastest-growing parts of Australia, with new housing, schools and hospitals placing increased demand on the road network.

Despite this growth, the former Liberal-National Government focused on mega-projects and drew lines on maps in congested suburbs without providing funding.

The Minns Labor Government and Albanese Labor Government are committing significant funding this year to ensure the next round of construction can get underway – kickstarting critical planning for North West Sydney.

This joint investment of $156 million in new funding is part of a broader roads and transport investment in the 2025–26 Budget, which focuses on ‘must-have’ infrastructure in our suburbs and regions that support liveability and growth—not vanity mega-projects.

Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“The Minns Labor Government is building better communities and are investing to get critical road projects shovel-ready.

“Roads are essential infrastructure for the growing communities of North West Sydney and that is why we are partnering with the Albanese Government to invest $156 million to kickstart planning for a series of major arterial road projects.

“Unlike the previous government which focused on mega-projects and ignored the suburbs, we’re investing in ‘must haves’ – congestion busting improvements to roads that are supporting fast growing suburbs.

“This is about new and widened roads, new intersections, roundabouts and safety improvements – all supporting new homes, expanding suburbs and new facilities.

“The Minns Government is stepping up with a plan to build the roads the North West needs. These projects are critical to keeping pace with growth and ensuring our communities remain liveable.”

Acting Minister for Western Sydney Courtney Houssos said:

“For too long Western Sydney families have been stuck in congested roads which haven’t kept up with development. This investment reflects the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to getting the basics right.

“Western Sydney roads have been a priority for Deputy Premier Prue Car and the Minns Government, and this boost means hardworking parents in our growing North West suburbs can get home to their families sooner.

“Our 2025-26 Budget builds on the Minns Government’s plan to build a better NSW and a better Western Sydney—delivering more homes, stronger essential services, and the infrastructure our growing communities need to thrive.”

State Member for Riverstone Warren Kirby said:

“This funding is fantastic news for Riverstone and the broader North West. Upgrades to Richmond Road, Garfield Road West, Burdekin and Townson Roads will make a real difference to daily commutes and local connectivity.

“The Riverstone community has been left behind when it comes to infrastructure and progress on these projects is long overdue. It’s great to finally have governments investing in the major road improvements we need.”

State Member for Mount Druitt Edmond Atalla said:

“Rooty Hill families know how frustrating traffic congestion can be. This investment to plan the upgrade of the Francis Road rail overpass and other local roads shows the Minns Labor Government is listening to our community and delivering the infrastructure we need.”

State Member for Blacktown Stephen Bali said:

“This is a huge win for our community. Areas like Blacktown are growing rapidly, and the intersection of Flushcombe and Bungaribee Roads is a major pinch point. This package ensures we can start the process to deliver the infrastructure our growing area needs, that was neglected for so long under the previous government.”

State Member for Prospect Hugh McDermott said:

“After years of being overlooked by the previous government, it’s great to see Prospect and the broader North West receive this critical boost, including upgrading Toongabbie Bridge. This package will help our growing communities stay connected and keep families moving safely.”

Advancing Australia’s interests at the G7 Leaders’ meeting

Over the past two days, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has met with leaders from across the world at the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Alberta, Canada.

The Prime Minister participated with other G7 invited guests in a session on the future of global energy security.

Leaders discussed the need to diversify energy sources and strengthen critical minerals supply chains.

Australia endorsed the G7 Critical Minerals Action Plan, which increases cooperation to build standards-based markets, mobilise capital and promote innovation.

This opens up the prospect of further expansion of the Australian critical minerals and rare earths industry.

Leaders also discussed how innovation in emerging technologies like AI and quantum can support productivity and economic growth.

The Prime Minister joined G7 members in endorsing the Kananaskis Wildfire Charter, which aims to build a stronger and more coordinated global approach to preventing, fighting and recovering from bushfires.

As a nation, Australia knows the complete destruction bushfires can cause.

Across the world, bushfires are becoming more severe with climate change impacting their frequency and severity.

The Australian Government welcomes the global effort to fight what can be absolutely devastating events.

Australian and Canadian firefighters travel across seas regularly to provide support during our respective fire seasons, and just this month, Australia deployed a contingent of 97 personnel to Canada to assist in combating its recent wildfires.

Prime Minister Albanese thanked Prime Minister Mark Carney for inviting Australia to his hosting of the G7 this year.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“Our participation in the G7 Leaders’ Summit reinforces Australia as a key voice in global economic affairs.

“My Government is building on the foundation we have laid over the past three years for future sustainable growth, which makes participation in economic forums like the G7 all the more important.

“I look forward to capitalising on the outcomes of the Summit, including the cooperation outlined in the Critical Minerals Action Plan, which will deliver benefits to our nation and our region.

“I am pleased Australia has been able to help our Canadian friends battle the recent wildfires – Australia has not forgotten Canada’s assistance during our Black Summer bushfire response in 2019-20.”

Australia committing to security and defence partnership with the European Union

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese today met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa and agreed to start negotiations on a Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) with the EU at the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Alberta, Canada.

The Partnership will provide a framework for current and future cooperation including in areas such as defence industry, cyber and counter-terrorism.

Existing SDPs the EU has with other countries include cooperation on cyber, countering hybrid threats, maritime security, non-proliferation and disarmament, space and economic security.

A Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) aims to strengthen cooperation on global security challenges.

It does not have military deployment obligations.

Discussions on an SDP with the EU and renewed engagement to conclude an Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement, demonstrate strong momentum in the Australia – Europe relationship.

Negotiation of an SDP will remain separate to efforts to conclude an Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement that we are focussed on taking forward in Australia’s national interest.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“I am pleased to announce we’re stepping up our cooperation with the European Union today.

“We see how deeply connected Europe’s security and the Indo-Pacific region have become.

“I very much welcome the EU’s offer for a Security and Defence Partnership and Australia will warmly take it up and commence work immediately.

“This will open the door to joint defence procurement opportunities and will benefit both our industries and our security.

“At a time of global uncertainty, it is our collective responsibility to work together to uphold peace, security and economic prosperity.

“That is what I will continue to do every day and that has been a key take out of our work here at the G7 today.”

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen:

“In a time of rising tensions and strategic competition, trusted partners must stand together.

“Europe and Australia’s enduring friendship enters a new chapter today.

“Recognising the shared security of Europe and the Indo-Pacific, we are launching talks on a Security and Defence Partnership.

“We’re also committed to advancing free trade negotiations—because economic security matters too.”

President of the European Council Antonio Costa:

“Australia is an important partner for the European Union.

“We share the same values and a strong commitment to multilateralism and the rules-based global order.

“Europe’s and the Indo-Pacific’s regions are connected.

“Opening negotiations on a Security and Defence Partnership opens new opportunities to further strengthen our cooperation.”

Greens call for bipartisan support to make housing a human right in the Victorian Charter

Today the Victorian Greens are calling for bipartisan support to make housing a human right in the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities (the Charter).

The Victorian Greens will introduce their Human Rights and Responsibilities Amendment (Right to Housing) Bill 2025 in the Victorian Parliament this week, which adds the right to adequate housing into the Charter.

Amending the Charter would mean that future legislation and regulations, Government departments, the police and the courts would all need to comply with and uphold the right to adequate housing. Under this Bill, making housing affordable, accessible, secure and habitable would become core to government decisions around housing.

The bill also specifies that housing should be structurally sound and located to appropriate public services and employment.

The Greens are calling on the Premier, Opposition and Cross Bench to support this bill.

The bill will be first read on Tuesday and second read on Wednesday in the Legislative Council.

Victorian Greens Housing Spokesperson, Gabrielle de Vietri:

“It’s time to fundamentally change the way we think about housing – not as a commodity but as a human right. This bill would do this.

“Today we are offering something all MPs across the political spectrum can agree on – that everyone has a right to a safe and affordable home.

“Anyone who votes down this bill will need a bloody good explanation for the more than 1 million Victorians in housing stress.

“Without a home, everything falls apart. You can’t access healthcare, education or work, you lose connections to family and community. Labor should look seriously at its responsibility to make sure Victorians have this basic human right protected now and into the future.”

Greens Call for Reforms to Allow GPs to Diagnose and Prescribe Treatment for ADHD

The Victorian Greens are calling on the Victorian Labor Government to implement reforms that would allow GPs to diagnose and prescribe medication to treat ADHD, improving access and affordability for thousands of Victorians.

A Grattan Institute report released this week found that around 1 million Australians are delaying or skipping specialist appointments due to high cost and lack of availability. Psychiatrists are at the top of the list, charging fees that are inaccessible to many Victorians, especially those on lower incomes.

To make matters worse, there are no public ADHD diagnostic services provided by Victorian health services for adults over 25. Most patients have to pay over $1000 for a private diagnostic assessment, some up to $2000.

In 2023, the Greens-initiated Federal Senate inquiry into the availability of ADHD treatment and support services in 2023 highlighted the urgent need for reforms to improve access and affordability of care.

According to the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, up to 480,000 children and adults living with ADHD in Victoria are unable to access diagnosis and treatment due the high out of pocket cost and lack of appointment availability.

GPs already play an important role in supporting patients who have ADHD, and are well-placed to take on the roles of assessment and prescribing. This would ensure that people have greater access to potentially life-changing care, and in a more holistic context.

These changes would bring the state in line with similar reforms in NSW, QLD, and WA.

The Greens are urging the Victorian Labor Government to act to ensure people are receiving the care they deserve, regardless of where they live or what they earn.

Dr Sarah Mansfield MP, Victorian Greens Spokesperson for Mental Health:

“GPs already provide important care supporting people living with ADHD, and are well-placed to have an expanded role in diagnosis and prescribing.

“The high demand and low availability of psychiatrists, especially in regional Victoria, means that many people living with ADHD are getting left behind. Access to care shouldn’t depend on your postcode or income.

“Expanding the role of GPs would provide more accessible support to help people living with ADHD thrive and free up specialist psychiatric appointments to provide other care.”

“The Greens will continue to advocate for immediate and meaningful changes to improve the lives of people with ADHD.”

Greens Urge Federal Government to Rethink NDIS Pricing Changes Amid Widespread Sector Concern

The Australian Greens are calling on the Albanese Government and the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) to engage in urgent and meaningful consultation with health professionals and disability support providers following growing concerns over the changes in the NDIS Annual Pricing Review 2024-25.

The changes would see a reduction in the hourly rate for some allied health professionals, a continuation of multi-year price freezes for others, and a reduction in travel rates for all allied health professionals.

The reforms, set to take effect from 1 July 2025, would revise the Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits (PAPL) for the 2025–26 financial year. Concerns have been raised by physiotherapists, podiatrists, dieticians, speech pathologists, psychologists, support coordinators, plan managers and occupational therapists.

The Greens have raised serious concerns about the impact of the changes on service access, particularly in rural, regional and remote communities, and for participants who rely on in-home, face-to-face supports.

Senator Jordon Steele-John, Australian Greens spokesperson for Disability Inclusion and the NDIS.

“I am hearing loud and clear from providers across the country – these changes would affect the quality and accessibility of services for NDIS participants.

“With the sector already under enormous pressure from the cost-of-living crisis, a reduction in hourly rates could mean professionals leaving the sector altogether and some organisations being forced to shut their doors.

“Disabled people are being squeezed on all sides. These changes are being proposed at the same time that many are being removed from the NDIS or having their supports cut, with no foundational support system in place to catch them.

“The Greens are calling on the Federal Government to ensure that any changes to NDIS pricing do not undermine access to essential services and supports.

“These decisions cannot be made in a vacuum. We need a transparent, respectful, and evidence-based approach that puts the needs of disabled people first and supports our hardworking allied health professionals and disability support providers.”

Greens not giving up on Rent Relief Fund

The ACT Greens say there’s no sense in scrapping the Rent Relief Fund when its cost to the budget is so small, and its positive impact in the community so large.

“Our job in the balance of power is to push back against the government when we think they’re making the wrong call,” said Shane Rattenbury, ACT Greens Leader.

“With 17 organisations sharing their fears about what will happen if the Rent Relief Fund is cut, this is one of those times when we think the government is making the wrong call.”

Mr Rattenbury was the Minister who established the Rent Relief Fund in 2023, and ensured funding continued in last year’s budget. Labor has now confirmed they intend to scrap it, in their first budget as a minority government next week.

“This critical support helps families and individuals in Canberra who might otherwise become homeless. It’s a terrible place to make savings in the budget,” Mr Rattenbury said.

“We’ve got a public housing waiting list in the ACT that barely moves because there aren’t enough properties, so if people lose their rental, where are they meant to go?

“The government only needs $1.7 million to keep this Fund going. If they need help finding that money, they can look to their own $3.8 million levy on Short Term Rentals that the Greens supported earlier this year, or they can pick up the proposal the Greens have given them to raise an extra $107 million by better taxing big corporations.”

Since its re-establishment in April 2023, the Rent Relief Fund has delivered over 1400 grants, equating to two grants per day, to households in need.

“This small spend has such a big impact. The Greens aren’t ready to give up on the Rent Relief Fund, so we’ll keep working with the community to get Labor to change their minds,” Mr Rattenbury said.

Earlier this month the Greens proposed a new tax rate for the largest corporations operating in the ACT, to keep paying for essential supports including the Rent Relief Fund.

Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday 17 June 2025

Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 17 June 2025. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.

Lord Mayoral Minutes

Star Hotel heritage listing nomination

A Lord Mayoral Minute was unanimously supported that City of Newcastle write to the Heritage Council in support of the Star Hotel’s inclusion on the State Heritage Register.

Delegation to Ube

An amended Lord Mayoral Minute was unanimously supported noting that Ube City has invited the Lord Mayor of Newcastle to lead a delegation of up to 10 to visit Ube for the 45-year celebration of the sister city relationship. The members of the delegation will be finalised in accordance with City of Newcastle’s Ube Sister City Policy.

Call for support for landslip affected residents

A Lord Mayoral Minute was unanimously supported that City of Newcastle write to the Minister for Recovery asking that the NSW Reconstruction Authority immediately take on the role of leading the recovery phase of the landslip in New Lambton, which for some residents may be long-term.

Acknowledging King’s birthday honours

A Lord Mayoral Minute was unanimously supported acknowledging and congratulating the Novocastrians who received a King’s birthday honour in 2025.

Ordinary business

Proposal for $2 inland swimming pool entry fee trial

Council voted to endorse an amended motion to implement a $2 pool entry fee trial at Beresfield, Mayfield, Stockton and Wallsend inland swimming pools for the 2025/26 swimming season. Lambton Pool will be actively considered for inclusion in any future expansion of the trial, or in the event that a permanent $2 fee structure is adopted, subject to further advice on risk management, safety, operational capacity and financial considerations.

Interest on overdue rates & charges for 2025/26

Council voted to adopt the maximum rate specified by the Minister for Local Government on interest on overdue rates and charges for the period 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026. All interest is waived for ratepayers who, on the basis of financial hardship, enter into an agreement to pay outstanding rates over an agreed period of time.

Adoption of Delivering Newcastle 2040 & making of the Rates & Charges

Council unanimously voted to adopt the 2025/2026 Delivering Newcastle 2040, the 2025/2026 Fees and Charges Register, the Resourcing Newcastle 2040 and make the Rates and Charges for the period 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026. Delivering Newcastle 2040 proposes a record Budget for 2025/2026 including a capital works program of $154.5 million, which is forecast to achieve a $300,000 net operating surplus.

Adoption of Council policies

Council unanimously voted to approve the amended Donations Program Policy and place both the Mobile Food Vending (Local Approvals) Policy and Outdoor Dining Policy on public exhibition for a period of 28 days.

Executive Monthly Performance Report

Council unanimously voted to receive the Executive Monthly Performance Report for May 2025.

Tender report – tree works services

Council voted to accept a tender for tree pruning, tree and stump removal and tree root grinding on public lands, roads and footways.

Notices of Motion

Surfest 40th anniversary

Council unanimously supported an amended notice of motion recognising and celebrating the 40th anniversary of Surfest in 2026. Council will commemorate the milestone by commissioning a mural depicting Surfest to be delivered at Merewether Beach, with engagement via the Public Art Standing Committee. Council will also support and collaborate with the Surfest committee to host an event at City Hall celebrating Surfest and its success over 40 years, to coincide with the final challenger series event in 2026.

Protection and adaptive reuse of community facilities at 48 Mordue Parade Jesmond

Council supported a notice of motion endorsing City of Newcastle staff to work with internal stakeholders to identify and recommend the optimal future use of the building at 48 Mordue Parade, Jesmond. This was formerly occupied by Heaton Birmingham Garden Bowling Club building, which has ceased trading. The land is designated as community land and the building and contents have been acquired by City of Newcastle. Council supports the adaptive reuse of this facility to deliver on the social needs of the Jesmond community.

World Environment Day

Council unanimously supported an amended notice of motion that recognised World Environment Day was celebrated on 5 June and noted the work being done by City of Newcastle including through its Newcastle Environment Strategy.

Public lighting strategy

Council unanimously supported an amended notice of motion that City of Newcastle commits to developing a comprehensive Public Lighting Strategy and supports continued funding for projects within City of Newcastle’s Delivery Program that continue to integrate lighting outcomes across existing and future public space and infrastructure programs.

Calling for Newcastle investment from the Housing Australia Future Fund

Council laid the notice of motion on the table.

SIX The Musical

Council unanimously supported a notice of motion noting the success of the global phenomenon SIX the Musical at the Civic Theatre from 10 April to 4 May, which delivered an estimated economic impact for overnight visitors of $1.199 million and $2.293 million combining local and out of area visitors.

Tackling anti-social behaviour in Wallsend

Council unanimously supported an amended notice of motion that Council writes to the Member for Wallsend and Minister for Police offering to engage in constructive discussions to identify the best strategy to combat anti-social activity in Wallsend and increase police patrols in the area during high-risk times.

$1 million funding boost to support new life for Lambton Park cafe

A renovation of a former café site at one of the city’s most popular parks will kick off later this year as City of Newcastle breathes new life into the historic Lambton Park building.

Constructed in the 1940s as a baby health centre, the building will be modernised into an accessible café designed to become a hub for social connection and inclusion.

Lambton Park cafe project City of Newcastle’s Executive Director of Corporate Services David Clarke, Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery and Chair of City of Newcastle’s Infrastructure Strategic Advisory Committee, Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz outside the former baby health centre, which will be transformed this year by City of Newcastle into a new café.

A development application for the upgrade was given the green light in March, with the project now receiving a $1 million boost through the NSW Government’s Crown Reserves Improvement Fund.

City of Newcastle’s Executive Director of Corporate Services David Clarke said the project will enhance the community’s use and enjoyment of the popular Lambton Park precinct.

“We are committed to delivering a range of projects that nurture connected, inclusive communities,” Mr Clarke said.

“We thank the NSW Government for its significant investment into this project, which will help City of Newcastle deliver the first major adaptive reuse of this historic building since it’s construction more than 80 years ago.

“The café upgrades will not only enhance the use of the building as an accessible and inclusive space but also encourage use of the wider park area and amenities.”

NSW Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the NSW Government was committed to delivering much needed upgrades to communities across the state.

“The grant to improve Lambton Park is part of $11 million that is being offered by the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund statewide to support community-focused projects,” Mr Kamper said.

“The NSW Government is focused on building better communities and these projects will keep our public reserves safe and healthy and support industry and the cultural, sporting and recreational life of communities to benefit many thousands of people.”

Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery said the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund provides grants to maintain and upgrade reserves and community facilities on Crown land.

“Lambton Park is an important space for our community and this funding from City of Newcastle and the NSW Government will enable the community to continue to use this historic site,” Ms Hornery said.

“The Tea Rooms were a fantastic addition to the Elder Street commercial area and I’m looking forward to seeing what the new café site will bring to the Lambton community.”

An artist’s impression of the façade of the new café.

The upgrade will include the installation of a new commercial kitchen, accessible bathroom facilities and the reconfiguration of the building into a more attractive and accessible open plan design.

Bi-fold doors from the café space will open onto a new rear deck extension overlooking the nearby children’s playground, which will provide accessible ramp access for parents with prams and people with mobility issues.

A preferred tenderer for the construction of the project is expected to be confirmed mid this year, with work on the upgrade to begin in the final quarter of 2025.

Chair of City of Newcastle’s Infrastructure Strategic Advisory Committee, Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz, said the project will breathe new life into a currently unused building.

“Lambton Park is a cherished community hub offering a range of active and passive recreational opportunities that are popular with local residents and visitors,” Cr Winney-Baartz said.

“This building has long been a space for social connection, from its original use as a baby health clinic to its reinvention as tea rooms in 2017.

“We look forward to its revitalisation as a cafe, which will complement the surrounding community facilities and contribute to the role Lambton Park plays in meeting the recreational and social needs of our local residents.”

Newcastle Museum exhibition highlights history of German-speakers in the Hunter

Margarete Ritchie was just three years old when she and her family left Austria in 1955 to make a new life on the other side of the world.

Their journey across the Red Sea and Indian Ocean to Australia is just one of the stories woven into the rich tapestry of memory in Newcastle Museum’s new exhibition, Heimat in the Hunter, which opens to the public tomorrow.

Hedy Fairbairn, Associate Professor Julie McIntyre, Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge, Julie Baird, Dr Sacha Davis, Tim Crakanthorp and Dr Jaime Hunt take a look at the new Heimat in the Hunter exhibition, which opens at Newcastle Museum tomorrow.

Developed in partnership with the University of Newcastle and drawing on the academic research of Dr Sacha Davis, Dr Jaime Hunt and Associate Professor Julie McIntyre, the free exhibition reveals the history and experiences of German-speakers in the Hunter region.

German is the tenth most common language other than English spoken in Newcastle and the Hunter.

Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said exhibitions such as Heimat in the Hunter offer a valuable insight into the history of our city.

“It is important to share and preserve stories of the communities and residents who have made Newcastle what it is today,” Cr Kerridge said.

“I commend the work of Newcastle Museum and the University of Newcastle on this wonderful exhibition, which will hopefully promote better understanding of the city’s many migrant community experiences.”

City of Newcastle’s Director of Museum, Archive, Libraries and Learning, Julie Baird, said partnerships between Newcastle Museum and research institutions like the University of Newcastle offer new ways to connect the public with contemporary historical research.

“This is a history not just of German-speaking migrants, but of courage, creativity and connection, where objects become anchors for memory, cultural continuity and the migrant experience,” Ms Baird said.

“Heimat in the Hunter brings together humble objects, images and interviews that reveal extraordinary stories and the importance of home and connecting world events to our shared local stories.”

The exhibition showcases items from the Museum’s collection as well as treasured family heirlooms generously loaned by members of the community.

Margarete’s story is brought to life through the remarkable travel album created by her father, Franz Ranzenbacher, which is filled with descriptions and photographs of their journey as well as a hand-drawn map of their migration route.

Travelling with her mother, father and eight-year-old sister, Margarete set off from Genoa aboard the MS Aurelia and sailed through the Suez Canal to Columbo in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), before docking in Fremantle and then finally Sydney, where they caught a train to the Greta Migrant Camp.

“I am quite honoured to have my parent’s quest to make a good home for their family in Australia, far from the turmoil in Europe in the early to mid-1950s, included in this exhibition,” Mrs Ritchie said.

A beautiful wool dinner suit tailored by Franz Schwaller helps tell the story of Viennese migrant Ernst Baumwald, who left war-torn Europe in 1939 to make a new life in Newcastle.

With strict limitations on what he could bring with him, Ernst arrived in Australia with little more than some clothing, a collection of German-language engineering books and his precious slide rule, which are among the items loaned to the exhibition by his daughter Hedy Fairbairn.

“Ernst was a civil engineer and spent the larger part of his working life at Newcastle’s State Dockyard. He was responsible for the design of the turntable on the Southern Hemisphere’s first drive-on-drive-off passenger ship, Princess of Tasmania,” Mrs Fairbairn said.

“Two vital items came with him from Vienna: his technical books/manuals and his slide rule. He relied on those books all his working life. Every calculation and computation for his design work was made with that slide rule. Later in life he purchased a pocket calculator, but the slide rule was never truly replaced.”

University of Newcastle Discipline Lead for History, Dr. Sacha Davis, said German-speaking migrants form an important element in the rich history of the Newcastle and Hunter region.

“Their experiences on the one hand are individual and specific, and on the other hand speak to the story of migration to the region more broadly. Yet German-speaking migration to the region has frequently been overlooked,” Dr Davis said.

“The great strength of this exhibition has been the passionate and generous involvement of the community in the telling of these stories.”

Visitors to the exhibition are also encouraged to share their stories via a QR code as part of the University of Newcastle’s current research project, German as a Heritage Language and Culture in Newcastle and the Hunter Valley, led by Dr Hunt.

This exhibition has been supported by the NSW Government, through Create NSW, the University of Newcastle Copley Bequest Pilot Research Fund, and the Australian Linguistic Society.

Heimat in the Hunter opens on Tuesday 17 June and will be on display until Sunday 21 September.