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Free essential skills training for regional and rural women

The Minns Labor Government is empowering regional and rural women with essential skills in first aid, and mental health and crisis support through free training with St John Ambulance.

Coordinated by the Rural Women’s Network, the government has provided $90,000 in funding to deliver approximately 30 free workshops tailored for women across 15 regional locations.

The ‘Rural Women’s Network Skills Roadshow’ program will run workshops for up to 450 women across regional New South Wales from May until November 2025.

The program aims to be accessible and includes skills to respond effectively in emergency situations, recognise mental health issues, recognise situations where people may be in imminent crisis, provide appropriate interventions and learn where to direct people for further support.

Recent St John Ambulance statistics highlight the need to increase first aid and mental health knowledge:

In New South Wales, 33% of adults have never trained in first aid (the highest proportion of any state/territory in Australia) and only 37% have done training in the last three years.

Women are less likely to be confident providing first aid (44% of women are confident) compared to men (57% of men are confident).

87% of Australians would be more willing to provide help to a person with a mental health issue if they were taught how.

Workshop participants will receive a nationally accredited certification once they have completed their training.

To find out more about the roadshow and register for a course near you visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/women-nsw/rural-womens-network/rwn-events/rural-womens-network-skills-roadshow-2025.

Minister for Regional New South Wales Tara Moriarity said:

“It’s so important to equip rural and regional women with the first aid skills that they need to be a crucial first responder during an emergency because it can literally be the difference between life and death.

“It’s not just about physical injuries either, this program helps develop the skills to identify and respond to someone experiencing a mental health problem or crisis, until professional help is available.”

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

“For the first time women across regional and rural NSW – from Ballina to Broken Hill to Bega – will have access to free first aid and mental health training thanks to this program.

“The New South Wales Government is making it easy for women to access this life-saving training to bridge an important gap, particularly for women who would have otherwise missed out due to cost or travel. We’re not only giving them essential skills but building resilience in regional communities.

“Thank you to St Johns Ambulance for partnering with us to deliver this exciting program, which will deliver 30 workshops right across New South Wales.

“For women living in regional or rural NSW, I encourage you to register for one or both courses nearest to you to help keep your family, workplace and community safe.”

Easter heat brings water safety warning

Beachgoers are urged to take care this long weekend as lifesavers prepare for hot weather and hazardous surf over what could be the last busy weekend of the season.

Warm conditions are forecast across the state, with sunny days and temperatures likely to hit the mid-to-high 20s all Easter weekend.

Lifesavers will be on high alert with long weekends and public holidays traditionally bringing heightened risks for swimmers.

A Hazardous Surf Warning is also in place across the state, amplifying the importance of taking safety seriously.

This Easter long weekend also coincides with the middle of school holidays.

Flags will come down across NSW for volunteer lifesavers on Sunday 27 April at the end of the Anzac Day long weekend.

To find your nearest patrolled beach, visit www.beachsafe.org.au or download the Beachsafe app.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:

“We’ve had a busy summer period on our beaches across NSW, and with warm weather forecast for this Easter weekend, we’re anticipating big crowds along the coast.

“There are more than 20,000 volunteer lifesavers and lifeguards across the state, and I want to thank them for their contribution this holiday weekend and right across the summer.

“Remember – don’t swim at unpatrolled locations, look for the red and yellow flags, and understand your limits when entering the ocean.

“Stay vigilant, follow the guidance of our lifesavers and enjoy our stunning NSW beaches safely this Easter.”

Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce said:

“Our volunteers will be out in force this Easter weekend and our Rescue Services teams are conducting roving patrols using jetskis and drones. We’re throwing everything we can at keeping people safe.

“We strongly advise people to head to a patrolled location and, particularly this long weekend where a lot of people will be celebrating the Easter holiday, remember that drugs, alcohol, and water do not mix.”

Appeal to locate man missing from Mereweather

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

Charles Lowry, aged 24, was last seen at Mereweather about 11:30am on Wednesday (16 April 2025).

When he was unable to be located or contacted, officers attached to Newcastle City Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Police and family hold concerns for Charles’ welfare as his disappearance is out of character.

He is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 170cm-175cm tall, of medium build, with a fair complexion and light brown hair.

He was last seen wearing green shorts, a white shirt, brown hoodie and runners.

Anyone with information on Charles’ whereabouts is urged to call Newcastle Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

The Greens will finish the job of making IVF accessible to all who need it

The Greens would make IVF more affordable for all by doubling the Medicare rebates, and removing the remaining discrimination against gay male couples accessing subsidised IVF treatment through altruistic surrogacy.

Last week, the Government made welcome changes to permit single and gay women to access subsidised IVF by updating the definition of infertility. But by excluding altruistic surrogacy, Labor’s changes mean male same-sex partners still miss out.

The Greens plan will fix that and make IVF more affordable and accessible for everyone.

Larissa Waters, Greens Leader in the Senate and Spokesperson on Women

“It’s time Medicare rebates stopped discriminating against gay couples, and supported all Australians who want to use IVF services by making it more affordable.

“The Greens are once again ready to take bold action to help people while the major parties tinker around the edges.

“For years the medical definition of infertility excluded LGBTIQA+ people from claiming Medicare rebates for IVF leaving the queer community to pay more for IVF.

“We welcome Labor expanding the definition to include single or gay women, but male same-sex partners and those without someone who can carry their baby still miss out.

“Altruistic surrogacy is legal nationwide, however the government neglected it in the new definition.

“This leaves gay male intended parents without Medicare support for IVF, because they can not carry the pregnancy themselves, even though the treatment is identical to other infertility cases.

“Right now, those needing IVF due to genetics, sexuality, or injury are forced to pay $16,000–$18,000 per cycle – three times what parents on Medicare support pay. Cost should not prohibit a future family.

“Both the Greens initiated Universal Access to Reproductive Healthcare Inquiry and the Medicare Review Taskforce have recommended expanding Medicare rebates for IVF services.

“Medicare rebates for IVF need to be offered to those who need it, so that everyone can have access to safe and affordable reproductive healthcare.

Stephen Bates, spokesperson on LGBTQIA+

“When it comes to altruistic surrogacy, same-sex couples are still unable to access the same support as their heterosexual peers. The costs for LGBTIQA+ couples are astronomical and this financial barrier is stopping them from starting a family.

“We urge Labor to work with the Greens to fully implement the recommendations of the Inquiry and Taskforce, to cover LGBTIQA+ families under Medicare.”

Labor’s pokies slowdown slashes machine reduction rate by over 40%

Shane Rattenbury, Leader of the ACT Greens:

“Today’s announcement by Labor isn’t action, it’s delay disguised as progress.

“It is now six months since the election, and all we have is an announcement that a tender will take place sometime in the future–we have no actual tender, no chair of the inquiry, and no detailed terms of reference.

“Labor has not announced anything new today.

“Given that at the end of last term, all parties agreed that a review was needed, and we are now six months along from the election, it begs the question of what the delay is?

“The fact is Labor’s approach slows poker machine reductions by a staggering 40% as compared to the pace achieved by the Greens over the last seven years.

“When the Greens were in the driving seat of gambling reform, machines were being pulled out faster — now, under Labor, progress is slowing dramatically.

Council endorses milestone community vision

City of Newcastle is looking to the future with a long-term framework that will guide Newcastle’s development over the next decade.

Councillors voted last night to endorse the Community Strategic Plan known as Newcastle 2040, a shared vision reflecting the aspirations of the local community.

Newcastle 2040 guides decision-making across key areas and supports the city’s continued growth, ensuring all council projects and initiatives contribute to a liveable, sustainable, inclusive global city.

Following the election of the new Council term last September, the review invited community feedback on the draft plan with public consultation closing in January 2025.

Overall, there was strong community support for the Newcastle 2040 vision endorsed by council in 2022.

Since its endorsement in 2022 City of Newcastle has delivered a range of projects and improvements that enhance livability and inclusivity such as local centre upgrades, improved safety for pedestrians and cyclists, and investments in sporting facilities and stormwater drainage.

Almost 6,000 pieces of feedback have shaped Newcastle 2040 to date, including face-to-face conversations, workshops, surveys, online feedback, advisory committees and stakeholder engagement.

City of Newcastle will continue to engage with the community throughout the life of the plan to ensure Newcastle 2040 aligns with the evolving needs and priorities of the city.

For more information on Newcastle 2040 visit https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/newcastle2040

Community input needed to protect and enhance Newcastle’s cultural heart

A new lawn area and event screen in Wheeler Place, better pedestrian and cycling connections, and more green spaces are being proposed under a concept plan for Newcastle’s historic Civic Precinct.

An artists impression of potential future upgrades for Wheeler Place that could form part of the Civic Public Domain Plan.City of Newcastle is inviting residents to provide feedback on the draft Civic Public Domain Plan, which will shape the future of an area that includes key streets such as King, Darby, Auckland, Merewether and Hunter, along with important spaces such as Civic Park.

The plan aims to preserve the character of the precinct while improving safety, accessibility and amenity, to create an environment where arts, culture, recreation, and events can thrive.

The intent is to ensure consistency in outcomes, regardless of whether new infrastructure is delivered by City of Newcastle, or by the private sector as part of future developments.

Civic Public Domain Plan site map Public Domain Plan site mapCity of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath said plans for the area will guide future development with a focus on increasing connectivity between important cultural institutions, while supporting the broader renewal of Newcastle’s city centre.

“This precinct has been the focus of significant change during the past 10 years, with major developments helping to shape the character of a key destination for residents, students, and visitors,” Mr Bath said.

“The Public Domain Plan will solidify the Civic Precinct as our arts and cultural hub, and elevate Newcastle’s reputation as a destination for creativity and cultural expression, with increased opportunities for public art, events and activations.

“It’s designed to make the area between Civic Park and Honeysuckle more suitable for walking, riding, and using mobility devices, while also adding more green spaces to make the area more enjoyable and keep the city cooler during hot weather.

“Tree planting will also enhance and protect views of valued heritage items, such as the historic relationships between Newcastle City Hall, Civic Park, Wheeler Place and Christie Place.

“We now need community feedback to help inform key features of the final plan, which will ensure a considered and coordinated approach to future works within the city. All of these features will be reviewed and endorsed by key stakeholder groups, the community, and City of Newcastle.”

An artists impression of potential future upgrades for Civic Park that could form part of the Civic Public Domain Plan.Newcastle RSL Sub-branch President Peter Griffiths said as a stakeholder with a long connection to Civic Park, the RSL is keen to be involved in the process.

“The RSL wants to ensure the precinct continues to honour the men and women who have served in the Australian Defence Forces,” Mr Griffiths said.

“It currently features the WW1/WW2 War Memorial, Vietnam and National Service Memorial, the Folded Wings RAAF Memorial and the Memorial Grove, which includes the Legacy tree.

“We’re proud to work with City of Newcastle on this Public Domain plan which acknowledges the fact memorials in Civic Park will continue to be armed service related.”

The draft Public Domain Plan is designed to create a seamless and engaging experience for visitors moving between the Newcastle Art Gallery and other nearby cultural institutions such as City Hall, Newcastle Library, Newcastle Museum and the Civic Theatre.

It includes proposed designs for new pedestrian crossings, new and upgraded plazas, as well as footpath and cycleway improvements.

Traffic upgrades to Auckland Street and Darby Street intersections are also proposed, as well as improvements to Christie Park, and acknowledgements of First Nations history and early European settlements.

The draft Civic Public Domain Plan is open for feedback via City of Newcastle’s website until 20 May 2025.

Community members can also join interactive “walkshop” events through the precinct on 2 and 3 May or visit City of Newcastle staff at the Olive Tree Markets in Civic Park on 3 May.

To find out more visit haveyoursay.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/civicpdp

Council update: Ordinary Council Meeting (items adjourned from 25 March) – Tuesday 15 April 2025

Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council Meeting (items adjourned from 25 March) of Tuesday 15 April. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.

Ordinary business

Newcastle 2040 Review

Council voted unanimously to endorse the revised Community Strategic Plan Newcastle 2040, which provides the basis for the ongoing alignment of the City of Newcastle’s decision-making processes, strategies, and activities with the vision of the Newcastle community.

City of Newcastle Advisory Committee annual reports

Council voted unanimously to receive City of Newcastle’s Advisory Committee Annual Reports for 2024.

Tabling of Petition – off-leash dog area for small to medium dogs – Newcastle East

Council noted the tabling of a petition to establish an off-leash area for small to medium dogs in Newcastle East.

Executive Monthly Performance Report

Council received the Executive Monthly Performance Report for February 2025.

Notices of Motion

Bequest from the estate of the late Anne Powell to New Lambton Community Centre

Council unanimously supported a notice of motion to acknowledge and celebrate the bequest of almost $64,000 from the Estate of the late Anne Geraldine Powell to the New Lambton Community Centre to benefit community groups that utilise the centre.

Relocating the Wickham Return and Earn

Council unanimously supported a notice of motion to write to TOMRA Cleanaway, the NSW Environment Protection Authority and the State Member for Newcastle, reiterating ongoing issues with the location of the Wickham Return and Earn facility and request that it is relocated to a more suitable location.

Notice of Motion to receive a petition: Petition against the introduction of permit parking scheme – George, Mary, Power, Phoebe and Morgan Streets, Islington

Council unanimously supported a notice of motion to receive a petition from 115 Islington residents against the proposed introduction of a Permit Parking Scheme in George, Mary, Power, Phoebe and Morgan Streets, Islington.

Council noted the petition was generated in relation to a matter that was under an open public consultation process. This consultation process has now been completed and over 98% of submissions noted an objection to it. Given the results of the consultation, it has been resolved the proposal will not progress and there will be no changes to the on-street parking regulations in this area.

Protecting the integrity of the Hunter Estuary in Newcastle

Council unanimously supported a notice of motion to seek an update on behalf of the community of the actions underway to mitigate and redress the impacts from development on, and rehabilitation of, our wetlands ecosystem in Newcastle, particularly in Minmi and Fletcher. Council requests a briefing with representatives from the NSW Local Land Services, NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, and Council officers.

New Hawkesbury Fire Control Centre on track to boost local emergency response

The NSW Government has worked with Hawkesbury City Council to secure a location for the Hawkesbury Fire Control Centre, with site designs now being finalised.

The NSW Government is committed to the safety and resilience of the Hawkesbury region, with work progressing for the Fire Control Centre which will be located in Wilberforce.

Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib, and Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman, visited the site of the new facility, to be built at the corner of Kurmond and McKinnons Roads in Wilberforce.

The new NSW Rural Fire Service Fire Control Centre will also include a co-located Emergency Operations Centre and NSW State Emergency Service unit base, forming the broader Hawkesbury Emergency Services Precinct.

The $16.5 million project is part of the NSW Government’s ongoing investment in critical infrastructure for regional and outer-metropolitan communities.

This purpose-built centre will bring together emergency management experts, enable faster coordination, and enhance frontline capabilities in the region.

Construction of the new Fire Control Centre will begin after the completion of the approvals and tender process, ultimately delivering a centre serving the community for decades to come.

NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:

“This new Fire Control Centre will provide the tools, infrastructure, and technology needed to coordinate emergency operations and protect lives and property in a region hit by a number of natural disasters in recent years.

“Most importantly, it reflects our government’s unwavering commitment to supporting the volunteers and professionals who work around the clock to keep our communities safe.”

Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman said:

“I’m pleased that my 2022 election commitment of $1.1 million to the Hawkesbury SES and $300,000 for the NSW RFS Hawkesbury Control Centre will contribute to making this important precinct a reality.

“Hawkesbury residents have endured multiple devastating bushfires and floods in recent years.

“This precinct will be a hub for preparation and resilience—ensuring our emergency services are ready to act quickly, effectively, and safely when the next emergency hits.

“And individual brigades are each making good use of their $50,000 grant, also part of my 2022 election commitments, to support the important work they do.”

NSW Rural Fire Service Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie said:

“This project represents a critical investment in the region’s emergency response capabilities, and a strong show of support for the dedicated volunteers and emergency service personnel who protect the community.

“Our members give their all to serve the community, and this facility will ensure they have the best possible environment to do so.”

Work begins on Penrith Stadium redevelopment

The Minns Labor Government has begun construction on the $309 million redevelopment of Penrith Stadium.

The precinct will transform into a modern venue for sport, recreation with community space and entertainment including concerts, offering a superior experience for visitors and players.

The project, led by John Holland Group, is expected to generate around 500 jobs during construction and a further 650 jobs during operation delivering significant benefits for the Western Sydney economy.

This stadium redevelopment has been long awaited by the local community. After being promised by the former Government for more than 5 years, the Minns Labor Government has designed, acquired planning approval and begun construction within 2 years.

The multipurpose venue is set to attract new sporting events to Penrith while continuing to support the growth of rugby league, union and football in Western Sydney.

Beyond sporting events, the stadium will be able to host up to 10 concerts every year with a capacity of 30,000, and smaller spaces will be available for private events such as meetings, conferences, and catered functions.

The training field adjacent to the stadium will also be remodelled to create quality open community spaces with multipurpose courts, child-friendly areas and improved landscaping.

The NSW Government has worked with award-winning architects Populous and Tyrrell Studio to ensure Penrith Stadium will be one of Australia’s premium suburban stadiums.

Selected after a competitive tender process, John Holland has extensive experience delivering large and complex construction projects, and the NSW Government is confident they will deliver an excellent outcome for Western Sydney.

The project is expected to be ready for operations in 2027. To find out more, visit the Penrith Stadium website.

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

“We are thrilled to see work begin on the redevelopment of Penrith Stadium as we bring to life our vision for a modern stadium and entertainment precinct that will serve as a major Western Sydney attraction for years to come.

“With a new stadium and community facilities, the stadium will have fans cheering on better views, seating and amenity as they cheer on their favourite teams.

“What’s more, this precinct won’t just be for sports fans but for the whole community, with year-round access to public facilities including the playing field and multipurpose courts.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said:

“It’s an exciting day for Western Sydney as we kick off construction on the new Penrith Stadium, the proud home of our mighty Panthers.

“This project will create hundreds of jobs during construction, and provide ongoing job opportunities right here in the heart of Penrith for our local community, boosting local businesses on event days.

“I look forward to being back in the stands cheering on the Panthers in this newly upgraded, world-class stadium, right here in the heart of Penrith.

Minister for Lands and Property and Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:

“Since its opening in 1967, Penrith Stadium has become a cornerstone of the local community, fostering a deep sense of pride and unity among fans and residents alike.

“Breaking ground on the redevelopment of Penrith Stadium marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter as we transform the venue into a modern sporting venue and entertainment precinct.

“Penrith is a thriving hub in Greater Western Sydney, and we are proud to invest in this community’s future by delivering an upgraded multipurpose facility that will be universally accessible, safe and inclusive for all users.”