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Building Commission NSW undertakes Tweed compliance blitz on licencing, signage, and electrical work

Building Commission NSW has conducted a building compliance blitz in the Tweed in an effort to crack down on unlicenced construction work, non-compliant electrical work, and other compliance issues.

The blitz forms part of Building Commission NSW’s commitment to ensuring developers and contractors are meeting their obligations and are not skirting licencing and signage responsibilities.

The February operation saw inspectors visit 33 construction sites in three days, covering an 800km area from Tweed Heads to Ballina, and extending west to areas like Casino and Kyogle.

Inspectors engaged with 140 tradespersons across a range of disciplines, focusing on licence checks, supervision requirements, and specialist installations in the electrical and plumbing space.

As a result of the blitz, Building Commission NSW identified 38 offences, with the majority relating to incorrect signage (18), as well as unlicenced work and unlicenced contracting (15).

Of the 38 offences, 21 penalty infringement notices (PINs) totalling $16,320 were issued, thirteen trader education notices were issued, and four matters referred for further investigation.

Inspectors often use their discretion to provide education notices for minor infringements, which promotes compliance and prevent future offences, especially for apprentice tradespeople.

Five sites with significant safety issues were also referred to SafeWork NSW for further investigation.

Building Commission NSW is conducting a wide-ranging regional compliance campaign to ensure construction projects across NSW are completed to the highest standards by qualified individuals.

Inspectors are travelling across the state to ensure a range of sites meet the required standards and remind the industry that Building Commission NSW will hold builders to account for bad practices.

So far, the regional compliance campaign has seen more than 140 building sites inspected in the Tweed, Mid North Coast, as well as the Riverina Murray regions.

Minister for Building Anoulack Chanthivong:

“Building quality is one of the top priorities of the Minns Labor Government.

“Building Commission NSW is making it clear that no matter where you are in New South Wales, we’re keeping a close eye on licencing, supervision, and specialist electrical work across the state.

“This Tweed compliance blitz demonstrates our commitment to ensuring all builders and tradesmen, regardless of location, are held accountable to meet their legal obligations.

“Regional communities deserve the same level of oversight and protection as those in metropolitan areas, and Building Commission NSW will continue to inspect regional sites to ensure their compliance.”

Building Commission NSW Commissioner James Sherrard:

“The results of this compliance campaign is a reminder to the Tweed building industry that Building Commission NSW is enforcing signage, licencing, and supervision rules right across the state.

“The number of offences related to unlicenced contracting and non-compliant signage shows that there is certainly room for improvement in the Tweed region.

“Building Commission NSW will return to the Tweed in the future, to ensure the issues we identified during this blitz are addressed, and that these types of compliance issues don’t continue.”

Western Sydney attracting global leaders in advanced manufacturing

The Minns Government is positioning Western Sydney at the forefront of advanced manufacturing with a new collaboration between the Bradfield Development Authority and leading Japanese automation company OMRON.

Under the agreement, the Bradfield Development Authority’s Advanced Manufacturing Readiness Facility (AMRF) will work with OMRON’s global network of Proof of Concept Centres to promote innovation, technology exchange, and productivity improvements across Western Sydney’s growing manufacturing sector.

OMRON is a global leader in industrial automation with a strong track record of supporting manufacturing innovation through robotics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed at Bradfield City Centre, marks another major step in the Minns Government’s vision to build Australia’s first city in 100 years, a city powered by high-tech industries and underpinned by a world-class advanced manufacturing ecosystem.

The AMRF, located in the heart of Bradfield City Centre, provides cutting-edge equipment, training, and expertise to support enterprises to innovate, scale and adopt new manufacturing technologies. The collaboration with OMRON will support shared research, technology demonstration, and industry upskilling.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said:

“Western Sydney is already a powerhouse of economic growth, and partnerships are critical in accelerating the region’s transformation into a hub for advanced manufacturing.

“Our continued focus on the growth and development of Bradfield means more high-quality, highly-skilled jobs for Western Sydney residents, in their own backyard.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“This partnership demonstrates how Bradfield is already becoming a magnet for global innovation, investment and opportunity.

“By connecting local industry with international leaders like OMRON, we’re helping Western Sydney businesses compete and thrive in a global market.”

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“OMRON’s involvement with the Advanced Manufacturing Readiness Facility is the NSW Industry Policy in action and will see Western Sydney businesses gain access to cutting-edge automation technology, global best practice, and new opportunities to scale their ideas.

“We’re proud to support initiatives that not only accelerate advanced manufacturing but also reinforce NSW as a leader in technological capability and industrial transformation.”

Managing Director of OMRON Australia Henry Zhou said:

“We are thrilled to collaborate with the Bradfield Development Authority to advance Western Sydney’s emerging advanced manufacturing sector.”

Company President of OMRON’s Industrial Automation Motohiro Yamanishi division:

“This initiative strengthens the long-standing Australia–Japan economic partnership and reinforces the close business relationship between Japanese industry and the NSW Government.”

G’day, WA! Newcastle Airport to welcome first direct flights from Perth

Under the Minns Labor Government, the Aviation Attraction Fund will welcome direct flights from Perth to Newcastle for the first time, connecting the west coast capital with NSW’s second biggest city.

In September 2025, Qantas will launch a new route between Perth and Newcastle that will facilitate much easier travel between the coastal cities and provide a significant boost to both the Hunter and Mid-North Coast visitor and business economy.

Backed by the NSW Government’s Aviation Attraction Fund (AAF), the new service comes at a transformational time for Newcastle Airport, which is preparing to open its new terminal later this year. Once complete, the expanded terminal will unlock opportunities for the region, welcoming more visitors and turbocharging local tourism and trade.

Along with the new Perth route, the upgraded terminal will allow for ongoing international flights into Newcastle for the first time. The NSW Government is working with Newcastle Airport to secure new international routes through the AAF.

The new route also links Newcastle to Perth Airport’s network of airlines and destinations, which currently includes direct daily flights from London Heathrow and Paris, and seasonal direct flights from Rome. Visitors from these destinations will soon be able to access one-stop trips to Newcastle.

With three flights a week between Newcastle and Perth, this direct connection also means easier getaways for residents of Newcastle and the Hunter and Mid-North Coast, giving them easier access to holidays, family and friends on the west coast.

The announcement is part of the NSW Government’s broader strategy to grow the state’s aviation capacity. It follows recent international flight wins for Sydney Airport, including new services from Istanbul (Turkish Airlines) and Shanghai (Juneyao Air), also secured through the Destinations NSW managed Aviation Attraction Fund.

Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley said:

“We’re opening the door for more people to discover our beautiful region – while also giving Hunter locals greater access to everything Western Australia and the world has to offer.

“Whether it’s wine, beaches, food or events – we have so much to offer. More flights mean more tourism and that’s a win for local operators and the wider economy.

“This new connection is another step forward in making the Hunter not just a great place to visit, but an even better place to live – and we’re excited to see where it leads.”

Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said:

“The Minns Labor Government is proud to have worked with Newcastle Airport and Qantas to secure this new route that will boost the region’s economy and unlock a new connection with Western Australia.

“This is the last piece in the domestic puzzle – Newcastle will soon have direct flights from all major Australian population centres.

“These are exciting times for the visitor economy in Newcastle, the Hunter and the Mid-North Coast, and I look forward to working with Newcastle Airport to secure further new routes.”

Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said:

“This is a game-changer for our region. Connecting Port Stephens and the Hunter directly to Perth opens up incredible opportunities for local tourism, business and jobs.”

“We’ve long known our region is worth visiting – now it’s easier than ever for people from across the country, and the world, to experience it for themselves.”

“With connecting flights from London, Paris and Rome now within reach, this is a powerful example of what we can achieve when we back our regions by investing in great local infrastructure.”

Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said: 

“This new route gives travellers direct access to both ends of the country and beyond. It’s a major win for the region’s global footprint helping us to be the airport our region deserves. It connects Newcastle and the Greater Hunter directly with WA’s resources sector, creating enormous potential for business travel and Fly In Fly Out operations. It also brings loved ones together and unlocks international one-stop connections via Perth to cities like London, Paris, Johannesburg and seasonal to Rome.”

QantasLink CEO Rachel Yangoyan said:

“QantasLink is proud to the first airline to offer a direct air link between Newcastle and Perth. 

“These flights will boost connectivity for Newcastle residents and mean they no longer have to drive to and from Sydney when they want to travel to Perth. We know many customers, particularly those working in the mining and resources sector, are having to do that today. 

“We’d like to thank Newcastle Airport and the NSW Government for helping make the new route possible.”  

Rosehill vote respected but it’s another bungled thought bubble from Chris Minns

The NSW Opposition acknowledges and respects the decision of Australian Turf Club (ATC) members to vote against the sale of Rosehill Gardens Racecourse. Their democratic voice has been heard – and while the racecourse will remain, the housing crisis facing young people, families and future generations continues to grow.

The parliamentary inquiry last year into the Rosehill proposal exposed serious failings in the way the Minns Labor Government managed this process. The inquiry found:

  • The Premier’s office misleadingly described a key meeting as a “meet and greet” despite it involving a long-time associate and discussion of the proposal.
  • The Premier and Government breached the Unsolicited Proposals guidelines by championing and announcing the proposal before it had even cleared the first stage of the unsolicited proposals process.
  • Communication with stakeholders, including ATC members and the public, was poorly handled.
  • There remains uncertainty about the financial viability of the proposal.

So far the Government’s housing delivery record is poor, hitting long term lows for approvals and commencements of new homes.

We know the only way to address the housing crisis is through scale, ambition and follow-through. We remain absolutely committed to housing supply, housing choice, and housing opportunity – but we won’t support chaos, secrecy or spin dressed up as policy.

Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said we respect the decision of the ATC members – but the real issue remains. 

“The housing crisis hasn’t been solved,” Mr Speakman said. 

Shadow Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Scott Farlow said the inquiry showed what happens when process is ignored, and transparency is tossed aside. 

“The Government had a plan finished for Camellia / Rosehill that they iced for 18 months while they chased this mirage,” Mr Farlow said.

The NSW Opposition stands ready to work constructively on solutions that deliver more homes, backed by infrastructure and public trust – because fixing the housing crisis means everyone has to be at the table.

Changes to ADHD treatment pathways in NSW welcomed

The Opposition has today offered its support for the Government’s changes to the way people with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can access treatment in NSW.

These changes will enable GPs to provide ongoing ADHD prescriptions for children and adults who are on stables doses of medication, without the need of a formal arrangement. A smaller number of GPs will be enabled to diagnose and initiate medication where appropriate. 

Under the Minns Labor Government our mental health system is in crisis and families know it has never been harder or more expensive to access mental health support. 

These changes recognise the expense and length of time it can take for children and adults to receive a diagnosis as well as prescription medication for ADHD, particularly in regional NSW. 

A timely ADHD diagnosis for a child can mean the world of difference to their development and mental health. 

Given the nature of these changes and the prescribed medications involved, the Opposition will be seeking assurances around what professional training and what evaluations and ongoing clinical oversight will be undertaken to ensure the changes are meeting their intended outcomes.

Appeal to locate teen missing from Hunter Valley

Police are appealing for assistance to locate a teenage boy missing from the state’s north.

Richard Wilder, aged 16, was last seen on Marika Street, Lochinvar, about 11am on Sunday 18 May 2025.

When he could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District were contacted on Monday (26 May 2025) and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Richard is described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, about 150cm-155cm tall, of medium build with light brown hair.

Police and family have concerns for his welfare due to his age.

He was last wearing a white Nike hoodie.

He is known to frequent the Newcastle areas.

Rider dies after motorbike crash – Wyee

A man has died after a single-vehicle crash in the state’s Lake Macquarie area.

About 8.45am this morning (Thursday 29 May 2025), emergency services were called to Gorokan Road, Wyee, following reports an off-road motorbike had crashed on the bank of Mannering Creek, near a footbridge.

Officers from Lake Macquarie Police District attended and found the rider of the motorbike – a man believed to be aged in his 20s – unresponsive in the water.

The man could not be revived and was declared dead at the scene.

Police established a crime scene and seized the motorbike for forensic examination and commenced an investigation into the circumstances of the crash.

A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

GREENS PUSH FOR INQUIRY AND URGENT ACTION TO REVERSE $2.4 BILLION SCHOOL FUNDING CUT 

The Victorian Greens are pushing for a parliamentary inquiry and have distributed an open letter calling on Premier Jacinta Allan to reverse her government’s $2.4 billion cut to public schools, as part of a two-pronged campaign to ensure every Victorian child gets the education they deserve. 

This week the Greens have distributed an Open Letter to the Premier demanding the immediate reinstatement of funding to meet the Gonski Schooling Resource Standard (SRS) by 2028, not 2031 as Labor quietly decided and concealed. 

The Victorian Greens are also pushing for a parliamentary inquiry to examine the consequences of effectively cutting $2.4 billion from public school funding, with the cumulative impact, including lost federal contributions nearing $3 billion and entrenching Victoria as the lowest funder of public schools in the country. 

The Greens will move in the Upper House on Wednesday, for the Legislative Council Legal and Social Issues Committee to inquire and consider the impact of the delay of Gonski funding for Victorian students, teachers and schools, with the inquiry set to report by April 2026. 

The Victorian Greens say an inquiry is essential, as Victoria already has the lowest-funded public schools in the country, Labor’s decision to delay Gonski funding will only make things worse and has jeopardised millions in additional funding from the Commonwealth. 

Victorian Greens Education spokesperson, Dr Tim Read: 

“Victorians deserve to know the consequences of this quiet decision made by the Premier and concealed in Budget papers that essentially rips $2.4 billion from our already underfunded schools and puts millions in Commonwealth support at risk. 

“This is critical funding. Teachers are burning out, schools are under pressure, children don’t have access to the support they need – and this decision means that a child starting prep today won’t get full funding until Grade Six. 

“The Premier has serious questions to answer. In the so-called Education State, why is Victoria stepping back while every other state steps up?”

LABOR QUIETLY CUTS SOLAR BATTERY NO INTEREST LOAN SCHEME

The Victorian Greens have urged the Labor Government to reverse their decision to quietly axe the state’s no-interest solar battery loan program, warning the move will lock out low-income households from accessing cheaper, renewable energy.

The $8,800 interest-free loan scheme, designed to help households install battery storage, will officially end on 30 June. But today, Solar Victoria confirmed it is no longer taking new applications – effectively shutting down the program early. The cut coincides with a funding reduction of nearly 12% to Solar Victoria in last week’s State Budget.

The new federal $4,500 battery rebate is a welcome step, but leaves many Victorians in the lurch: with good-quality battery systems still costing over $13,000, lower-income households lack viable options to transition to cheaper, renewable energy without a loan program.

The Greens say that there was no reason to cancel the largely cost-neutral loan scheme, which should coincide with the federal rebates and could be expanded to help renters, apartment dwellers, and social housing residents – groups who continue to face barriers to accessing cheaper, renewable energy.

While any cost-of-living relief for low-income households is welcome, Labor’s $100 energy bill payment mainly benefits fossil fuel-powered energy companies and pales in comparison to the long-term savings and energy independence that solar batteries offer.

Victorian Greens spokesperson for coal transition, Dr Tim Read:

“Labor’s decision means people who would benefit most from cheaper, cleaner energy remain locked out by the cost of batteries.

“This was a sensible, low-risk scheme that let people take control of their energy bills and reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.

“Helping more people electrify their homes is one of the most effective ways to reduce energy bills and reduce emissions, we should be scaling this up, not winding it down.”

Media Release: Whistleblower guilty plea means Australia criminalises courage

 Today’s guilty plea by whistleblower Richard Boyle is a damning indictment of Australia’s broken whistleblower protection laws. Richard told the truth about appalling practices inside the ATO that unfairly ruined lives and ruined businesses. Today as the Labor government forces a criminal conviction on him, the Greens join with millions of Australians to thank him for his courage and to offer urgent bipartisan support to fix these broken laws.

Greens Senator for NSW and Justice Spokesperson David Shoebridge:

“Today ATO whistleblower Richard Boyle has been forced to plead guilty to four criminal charges and the end result is that Australia has now criminalised courage.

“Richard Boyle exposed ATO thuggery and saved countless taxpayers from abuse and for that this government rewarded him with a criminal conviction. This is a national disgrace.

“The message that is sent with this is crystal clear, if you dare to expose government wrongdoing, then the government will destroy you.

“Richard Boyle put his career and his freedom on the line to stop people’s lives being smashed by unethical practices in the ATO. He should get a medal for that, not a conviction.

“What has happened to Richard, and to other high profile whistleblowers like David McBride, proves that our whistleblower laws are dangerous for whistleblowers.

“This is the moment to act, with a new Parliament and new gross injustice.

“The Greens again invite Labor to join with us and use the guaranteed majority in both Houses of Parliament to urgently pass whistleblower reforms so that they do their job and protect truth telling.”