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First look inside the $440 million Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital

Construction of the new Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital building is nearing completion, marking a significant milestone in the delivery of expanded healthcare services for the region.

Communities across the Shoalhaven region are one step closer to a new, modern and purpose-built hospital, with construction of the centrepiece building for the $440 million Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital now substantially complete.

The substantial completion of the new seven storey Acute Services Building marks a significant milestone, bringing the region closer to a modern health facility that will support the healthcare needs of the Shoalhaven community for generations to come.

The Acute Services Building will house a range of new and expanded services and facilities, becoming a health hub for the region and supporting the growing local population.

With the new building undergoing final testing, construction is now focused on finishing the remaining external works of the redevelopment, including the link bridge connection to the existing hospital building, main entry, as well as the installation of artwork and landscaping.

The new building is expected to open to patients later in 2026, following the completion of operational commissioning activities, led by Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District.

The operational commissioning phase is integral to ensure the building is safe and ready for patients, staff and visitors. It includes equipment testing, delivery of furniture and fixtures, training teams, performing clinical scenarios, and checking emergency systems.

Once operational, the new Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital will provide the majority of emergency, critical care, acute, sub-acute and non-admitted health services locally, reducing the need to transfer patients to Wollongong and Sydney.

The new acute services building will directly connect to the existing hospital via a new linkway, and includes:

a new emergency department and emergency short-stay unit
new intensive care unit
medical wards
a dedicated acute mental health unit
double the number of operating theatres, endoscopy and procedure rooms
a dedicated cardiology inpatient unit, coronary care unit and cardiac catheterisation laboratory
new medical imaging unit, including MRI and CT machines
a new rooftop helipad

Once services move into the new Acute Services Building, the project focus will turn to the refurbishment of the existing hospital, with works expected to be complete in 2027.

The redevelopment has provided a significant boost to the local economy during construction, with close to 70 per cent of the workforce based locally. It is estimated that the project has supported around 800 direct jobs, and hundreds of indirect jobs over the life of the project.

Consultation with staff, patients and the community has been a key part of planning and design for the redevelopment, ensuring the new hospital meets the unique health needs of the Shoalhaven region.

Staff, patients, and the community will be kept informed, with an opening date for the new building to be announced shortly.

Labor is making the long-term investments into recruiting more staff and building more hospitals to better meet the growing health needs of our community and relieve pressure on our health system.

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“We are delivering more hospitals, more beds, and more health staff for the growing communities in the Illawarra.

“This is an important milestone for the hospital. We can’t wait to see the new building open its doors to patients later this year.

“The Shoalhaven Hospital Redevelopment is part of more than $1 billion in health infrastructure investment across the Illawarra Shoalhaven region, including Shellharbour, Wollongong and Milton Ulladulla.”

Member for South Coast Liza Butler:

“This is a proud and significant milestone for the Shoalhaven community, bringing us closer to the opening of the modern hospital our growing region needs and deserves.

“The new Acute Services Building will transform healthcare on the South Coast, delivering expanded emergency, intensive care, surgical, cardiac, mental health, and medical imaging services closer to home. Importantly, it will mean fewer patients and families having to travel to Wollongong or Sydney for essential care.

“I thank the hospital staff, patients, and community members whose experience and input have helped shape this redevelopment, as well as the hundreds of local workers who have contributed to its construction.

“This $440 million investment is about ensuring our community has access to high-quality healthcare now and for generations to come, and I look forward to welcoming patients, staff, and visitors into the new building later this year.”

Member for Kiama Katelin McInerney:

“This once in a generation investment in the Shoalhaven will mean that residents in the Kiam Electorate will have a better access to healthcare closer to home.

“I’m looking forward to seeing our expanded emergency department and intensive care unit open this year to meet the demands of our growing community.

“More mental health places, increased surgical and allied health capacity will result less time travelling for local patients.

“Importantly we are also investing the extra staff and investing $21 million in building and securing housing for our growing hospital workforce, and paying them what they are worth so we can attract and keep them in our regional hospitals.”

Labor union demands Australian flag be changed, voice still in Labor’s sights

Labor’s more excitable fellow travellers have still not accepted the decisive result of the voice to Parliament referendum.

Linda Burney, the former Indigenous Australians minister who failed to deliver the voice for Anthony Albanese, will reportedly be awarded life membership in Labor at its national conference this week. She told the media she had no regrets pushing the voice to Parliament and said she hoped it would be revisited in the near future.

“I think [the referendum result] was a devastating outcome…but I have faith this issue will not go away,” she said. “If not a voice, then proper recognition of the whole story of this country in our Constitution would be most welcome.”

Burney doesn’t understand our Constitution. It’s not a document that “recognises stories”. It’s a document which effectively lays out the rules for parliaments governing Australia, and it already recognises every Australian indigenous or otherwise, by making no distinction between them.

But even Burney’s refusal to accept her own spectacular failure was eclipsed by the Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU), which released a ‘blueprint’ ahead of the conference demanding the removal of “symbols of oppression, like the Union Jack on our flag and offensive colonial statues” from public life.

Racial division has always been part of Labor’s DNA. One people, one country under one flag – the current Australian flag – is part of One Nation’s DNA. Hiding our history doesn’t change it. Treating people differently based on race doesn’t unite Australia. The people have spoken, and they’ve rejected this division. One Nation will always oppose an indigenous voice in Parliament or changes to our national flag.

Labor must scrap carbon tax to make WA oil refinery a reality

The Coalition has welcomed plans to examine a new oil refinery in Karratha, but warned Labor must scrap its carbon taxes for the project to succeed.

Leader of the Opposition Angus Taylor said the $4 million pre-feasibility study into Perdaman’s proposal was welcome, but was not a fuel security strategy.

“Labor cannot promise a new refinery while its carbon tax is set to cost Australia’s last two refineries in Brisbane and Geelong $165 million by 2030,” Mr Taylor said.

“Unless Labor scraps these taxes, a new refinery will remain a pipe dream.

“The Coalition will axe Labor’s carbon taxes, scrap net zero, extend fuel security support, lift fuel stocks to 60 days, unlock more Australian oil and gas, and fast-track nationally significant projects including the Taroom Trough and Browse Basin.”

Leader of The Nationals Matt Canavan said Australia needs to “drill, baby drill” rather than tax our resources sector more, with the current two oil refineries expected pay more than $100 million dollars in carbon tax on some estimates by the end of the decade.

“I would love to see a new refinery and more oil and diesel, but in a cost-of-living crisis, and now a fuel crisis, why on earth would Labor continue to impose a carbon tax?” Senator Canavan said.

“A future Coalition government will scrap carbon taxes and we will scrap net zero. We have sovereignty of our resources and we can use what we have, right here in Australia, to create jobs and create our own energy supply. We can also invest in biofuels and coal-to-liquids technology.”

Shadow Minister for Energy Dan Tehan said Labor’s own policies were standing in the way of the fuel security Australia urgently needs.

“Labor cannot claim to support a new refinery while its carbon tax is making Australian refining less competitive and pushing up costs,” Mr Tehan said.

“Real fuel security means backing Australian production, protecting Australian jobs and ensuring families and businesses are not left exposed to overseas supply shocks.”

It comes as Mr Taylor and Mr Canavan tour the Stanwell Power Station with member for Flynn Colin Boyce. Mr Canavan said the coal-fired electricity generator was crucial and the Prime Minister should meet with the Queensland Premier also, to explore improving resources.

“The Queensland Premier has done a fantastic job with the state’s resources and the Prime Minister should focus on our national interest to develop our oil and gas reserves,” Senator Canavan said.

Member for Flynn Colin Boyce said under Labor, gas prices are up 41 per cent and electricity by 37 per cent.

“We must put all options on the table to lower the cost of fuel, gas and electricity – which is why today’s visit to Stanwell Power Station is so important,” Mr Boyce said.

Ordinary Council Meeting 28 July

Following is a summary of resolutions from the Ordinary Council meeting of Tuesday 28 July. NB: it is not a full record of resolutions.

Lord Mayoral Minutes

Acknowledging the contribution of the late Sue Prosser

A Lord Mayoral Minute was unanimously endorsed that extends Council’s greatest sympathy to Sue’s husband Rick Prosser, their children, friends and family, and to the Soul Hub community for the loss of Newcastle’s ‘mother of soul’.

Councillors’ commitment to financial sustainability in the face of increasing cost pressures, a funding system requiring reform, and increasing cost shifting

A Lord Mayoral Minute was unanimously endorsed that Council seeks to fully understand the impacts of the current local government funding system including cost shifting on City of Newcastle’s finances now, and the projected impacts in coming years, by commissioning independent advice to identify, describe and quantify the impacts where possible.

Ordinary business

Adoption of Cultural Plan 2026-2036

Council voted unanimously to endorse City of Newcastle’s Cultural Plan 2026–2036, which provides Newcastle with a clear, coordinated, and long-term approach to culture.

Accessibility and safety upgrades to pedestrian footpaths and roads Islington

Council voted unanimously to receive the petition titled “Petition for Accessibility and Safety Upgrades to Pedestrian Footpaths and Roads in Islington” and refer it to the Chief Executive Officer for consideration.

Notices of Motion

Adopting an area wide approach to current and future parking needs

Council supported an amended notice of motion to consider a review of current and future parking needs through a systematic analysis of current parking supply and access including the role of signage, traffic flow and redirection in accessing existing parking. City of Newcastle will write to the State Members for Newcastle, Wallsend and Charlestown advocating for the implementation of improved public transport servicing across Newcastle.

Free period products in city buildings

Council unanimously supported an amended notice of motion for an initial 12-month pilot of free period products in a selection of City of Newcastle buildings. City of Newcastle will write to the State Members for Newcastle, Wallsend and Charlestown, asking that they advocate to the NSW Government for leadership and investment to ensure a coordinated, equitable, and sustainable response to period poverty.

Climate compensation to protect ratepayers

Council supported an amended notice of motion that the Lord Mayor write to the Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy and the Federal Member for Newcastle calling on the Australian Government and Parliament to establish a Climate Compensation Fund to support communities, households and local governments in meeting the costs of climate adaptation, resilience and disaster recovery.

Congratulating Hunter Wildlife Rescue on a successful flying fox rescue station

Council unanimously supported a notice of motion acknowledging the work Hunter Wildlife Rescue volunteers do, rescuing and caring for injured animals across the Hunter and congratulates them on the release of 70 flying foxes for the 2025/2026 season. Council also acknowledges the important role Blackbutt Reserve plays as a final release location for rescued flying foxes.

Beaumont Street, Hamilton SBR precinct community safety audit

Council unanimously supported an amended notice of motion that City of Newcastle requests the CEO provide a report to Councillors, which considers advice in the Hamilton Community Safety Audit report, identifying which of the recommendations can be delivered within current City of Newcastle policy and project delivery frameworks, including timeframes for delivery.

Briefing request on State Housing Policy

Council unanimously supported an amended notice of motion that the Lord Mayor write to Minister Paul Scully as the lead responsible Minister for the Department of Planning, Housing to obtain a comprehensive briefing pack delivering a clear understanding of the NSW Government’s social and affordable housing targets, how they are to be delivered, and their applicability in Newcastle. If this is not acceptable, would there be a preference to attend a public briefing.

Reducing gambling harm

Council supported an amended notice of motion that City of Newcastle writes via the Lord Mayor to the Premier of NSW and the Minister for Gaming and Racing expressing support for the Wesley Mission campaign and outlining the impacts of gambling harm in Newcastle and the need for balanced, evidence-based reforms that reduce harm while recognising the role of registered clubs in supporting community outcomes.

Late item – train manufacturing

Council unanimously supported a late notice of motion to formally welcome the NSW Labor Government’s $12 billion commitment to return train manufacturing to the Hunter and writes to the Premier of NSW, the Minister for Transport, the Minister for the Hunter and all Hunter State MP’S reaffirming City of Newcastle’s commitment to work collaboratively with neighbouring councils, industry and the NSW Government to ensure this project delivers the greatest possible economic benefit for the entire Hunter region.

Clean-up of former Truegain site in Maitland now complete

The Minns Labor Government has delivered a cleaner and safer future for the Lower Hunter community with clean-up works at the former Truegain waste oil processing plant in Rutherford now complete.

The Truegain site was one of the most contaminated pieces of land in the Hunter.

The site has undergone a two-stage remediation process over the past few years, led by Property and Development NSW’s Waste Assets Management Corporation (WAMC) and backed by $19 million in NSW Government funding.

Stage 1 involved the removal of more than 11,000 tonnes of industrial liquid waste, sludge, and above-ground infrastructure, including over 400 storage tanks and intermediate bulk containers, from the site. This phase was completed in late 2023.

The recently completed Stage 2 involved the removal of approximately 15,000 tonnes of contaminated soil from the 1.2-hectare site. It also included the removal of hydrocarbon impacted concrete slabs and the excavation of underground infrastructure including a 50,000-litre underground tank.

Now remediation works are complete, the site is suitable for commercial or industrial use.

The former waste oil processing plant was abandoned in 2016 when Truegain lost its trade waste permit, had its environment protection licence suspended and entered liquidation.

For more information visit the Truegain site remediation webpage.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“With the completion of remediation work, what was once a blight on the local landscape has been transformed into a space that can be used to benefit the entire Maitland community.

“Since the site became the Government’s responsibility, we have made cleaning up this site our priority. We want to ensure future generations are not left with the legacy of gross environmental mismanagement.

“Property and Development NSW have done a good job of remediating this site. The agency is also remediating other sites across the Hunter, including the former Waratah Gasworks in Newcastle.”

Member for Maitland Jenny Aitchison said:

“The remediation of the former Truegain site is a huge relief to our community. Thanks to Property and Development NSW, one of the most polluted sites in the Lower Hunter is now cleaned up, bolstering safety and amenity for the Rutherford community.

“Everyone deserves to live in safe and clean environment, which is why the Minns Government prioritised this project.”

Local resident Ramona Cocco said:

“I’d like to thank everyone involved in cleaning this site up. It was a mammoth undertaking.

“It is so nice to know that we, as a community, can finally move on and this site can be reused in a way that’s beneficial to us all.”

Preferred option identified for northbound Sheahan Bridge replacement

A new bridge on the existing alignment has been identified as the preferred option for replacing the ageing northbound Sheahan Bridge, pending further design and environmental assessment.

Planning work to replace the ageing northbound Sheahan Bridge on the Hume Highway at Gundagai has taken a step forward, with building a new bridge in the same location identified as the preferred option following detailed investigations.

The Albanese Government has committed $16 million, with the Minns Government contributing $4 million towards planning and investigations to replace the northbound bridge. The replacement would safely accommodate larger, more productive freight vehicles along Australia’s busiest road freight corridor while improving safety, reliability and travel efficiency for everyone using the highway.

Investigations found replacing the bridge on its existing alignment provides the best overall outcome balancing freight efficiency, construction impacts as well as environmental and community considerations. It also addresses the maintenance challenges associated with the ageing northbound bridge.

Built in 1977, the northbound Sheahan Bridge was designed and built to the standards of the time and cannot accommodate larger freight vehicles. By comparison, the southbound bridge, which opened in 2009, was built to modern standards and can accommodate these vehicles.

Allowing larger, more productive freight vehicles such as A-doubles and B-triples to use both bridges would mean more freight could be moved with fewer trucks, improved freight efficiency and traffic flow, and more reliable journeys for all road users.

A range of options were assessed by Transport for NSW to determine the safest, most efficient and best value long-term solution

Transport for NSW will now progress the concept design and environmental assessment, with the community invited to have their say in mid-2027.

More information about the preferred option can be found at Transport for NSW Sheahan Bridge Upgrade

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King:

“The Hume is the busiest freight corridor in the country, and it is essential it remains safe and reliable so we can keep goods moving.

“An upgraded bridge over the Murrumbidgee River will be able to accommodate longer trucks, as they move goods from Sydney and Canberra, down to Melbourne and onwards to Adelaide”.

NSW Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison:

“The Sheahan Bridge has served motorists for decades, and it’s time to plan for its next chapter so it continues to support the people that rely on it.

“Having a long-term plan for the northbound bridge is a crucial investment in the future of one of NSW’s busiest transport links, ensuring it continues to meet the needs of motorists for generations to come.

“This preferred option is about making sure the Sheahan Bridge remains a reliable gateway on the Hume Highway, supporting regional communities, strengthening freight, and improving the overall experience for motorists.”

NSW Labor Spokesperson for Cootamundra, Stephen Lawrence:

“Delivering a new Sheahan Bridge is a sensible next step to better support larger freight vehicles on the Hume Highway.

“This new build, made alongside the Albanese Federal Government, would reduce the number of freight vehicles on this crucial link, while maintaining freight capacity to Sydney from the NSW southwest.”

Historic power station site set for major jobs transformation

The site of one of the state’s oldest coal-fired power stations is set to be transformed into a major new jobs, housing and recreation precinct which can support up to 3,500 new jobs and around 1,200 new homes.

The rezoning proposal for the former Wallerawang Power Station site will help drive the Lithgow region’s economic evolution and future growth.

The Minns Labor Government is doing the work the former government failed to do, to enable this prime land just 10km from Lithgow and adjacent to Lake Wallace to transform into an industrial hub and vibrant lakeside community.

The State Assessed Rezoning Proposal prepared by site owner Greenspot, covers approximately 620 hectares, which is more than double the size of Sydney CBD.

Key features of the proposal which is now on exhibition include:

a new employment precinct with industrial and commercial land
building heights between two and five storeys in designated areas
more than 100 hectares of protected environmental conservation land and open space
a tourism and recreation precinct adjoining Lake Wallace, connected to new walking and cycling trails through surrounding bushland.

The rezoning follows significant work undertaken by Greenspot to decommission and remediate the former power station site between 2021 and 2023 and supports the Lithgow region’s shift to new industries, following the closure of coal-fired power generation.

Developed in close collaboration with Lithgow City Council, NSW Government agencies and the site owner, the proposal was declared a State Assessed Rezoning Proposal due to its strategic significance, enabling a coordinated assessment process.

The proposal is on public exhibition until 5 pm, Tuesday 25 August 2026.

A community drop-in session will be held from 4 pm to 7 pm on Thursday, 6 August in the Scanlon room at the Black Gold Motel, 121 Main St, Wallerawang, giving interested community members the chance to speak directly with the project team.

For information and to have your say, visit NSW Planning.

This rezoning builds on the release of masterplans and rezoning proposals for the Mt Arthur Coal Mine and Macquarie Coal Complex which are set to unlock more than 7,000 jobs in the Hunter as part of major post-mining land transformations.

The Minns Labor Government is working with industry and councils to plan a secure jobs future as areas across the state evolve from coal to major industrial hubs.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“The Wallerawang Power Station helped power New South Wales and the Lithgow community from 1957 to 2014. Now we’re giving this historic site the new future it deserves as an industrial hub and vibrant lakeside community.

“This proposal is an investment in the future of Lithgow region, which could enable thousands of new local jobs, homes and great open space.

“The Minns Labor Government is making sure regional communities have the support and investment they need to attract new industries and investment, creating a clear pipeline of opportunities for future generations.”

Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos said:

“Mining has long been a source of economic prosperity for NSW. As mines close, the government is committed to ensuring sites are rehabilitated safely, and the land is put to new industries that generate economic benefits and well paid jobs for the local communities.

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to exploring new opportunities for post-mine land use which promotes new industries and encourages economic diversification.

”Sites like Wallerawang have supported jobs for generations. Our government is committed to ensuring sites like Wallerawang continue to provide employment opportunities for local communities.”

Mayor of Lithgow City Council Cassandra Coleman said:

“As Lithgow continues to power New South Wales this century the transformation of the former Wallerawang Power Station site will drive the next stage of new industry for our community.”

“The many community development opportunities and business opportunities this proposal provides again shows that Lithgow continues to be recognised as a critical regional hub”.

Have your say and help us shape the future of Transport in the Riverina Murray

People who live, work or visit the Riverina and Murray are being invited to help shape the region’s transport future, with the Minns Labor Government today releasing a draft 20-year blueprint for roads, public transport and freight.

The draft Riverina Murray Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan sets out a long-term vision for the region, identifying 51 potential short, medium and long-term initiatives designed to improve safety, connectivity and transport choice while supporting future population growth and changing community needs.

For the first time in more than a decade, Riverina and Murray communities can help shape a single integrated transport plan for their region.

The draft Plan has been informed by more than 550 pieces of community feedback and over 20 written submissions. Developed in consultation with local councils, Members of Parliament and community groups, it builds on previous planning work and is now being released for broader community feedback.

The Riverina Murray SRTIP is one of nine plans being developed across regional NSW as part of the Minns Government’s commitment to improving transport infrastructure and services across the state.

Key directions of the draft Plan include:

improving access to jobs, education, healthcare, recreation and Country for Aboriginal communities
enhancing access to local, regional, metropolitan and cross-border destinations
upgrading transport networks and improving services to support future growth
improving freight efficiency and productivity
creating a safer and more resilient road network.

The Minns Government is now calling on the community to have their say.

Community members can view the draft SRITP and provide feedback until 11:59pm Friday 11 September by visiting https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/sritp/riverina-murray. A community survey has been designed to make it easy to provide feedback on key themes and initiatives proposed in the plan.

More detailed submissions are also welcome and can be sent to engage.sritps@transport.nsw.gov.au or posted to PO Box 484, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650.

During the consultation period, Transport for NSW representatives will visit communities across the Riverina and Murray at a series of pop-up sessions to answer questions and hear directly from locals.

Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison:

“The people who know the Riverina and Murray best should be able to help shape its transport future, and that’s exactly what this draft Plan is designed to do.

“This is about using local knowledge to make it easier for people to get to work, school, healthcare and see family, while strengthening freight links that keep our economy moving.

“We’ve listened to hundreds of people already, and now we’re inviting everyone across the Riverina and Murray to have their say before the plan is finalised.”

Labor Spokesperson for Murray, Bob Nanva MLC:

“This is an excellent opportunity for locals in Riverina and Murray to have a say in how transport is planned and built to better service their daily lives.

“As communities change and grow, it is important that connectivity grows with them and for them, to ensure that their transport needs remain accessible.”

Wests Tigers fans one step closer to new Leichhardt Oval

Leichhardt Oval is set for its biggest transformation in decades, with the Minns Labor Government approving a major redevelopment that will secure the future of one of Sydney’s great suburban sporting venues.

The project is jointly funded with $20 million from the Albanese Labor Government, $10 million from the Minns Labor Government and $10 million from Inner West Council.

A rugby league stronghold since the 1930s and home of the Wests Tigers, Leichhardt Oval known by locals as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’, will be transformed with new grandstands, modern facilities and improved amenity for players and fans, while continuing to serve as a hub for grassroots sport in Sydney’s Inner West.

The redevelopment, delivered by Inner West Council will keep Leichhardt Oval firmly in the mix as a venue for men’s and women’s NRL and A-League fixtures, while giving local clubs, pathways programs and the next generation of athletes a facility to match their ambition.

Key upgrades include:

Renovation of the historic western grandstand with new seating
Modern hospitality and media facilities
Four NRL compliant female friendly change rooms
A new northern grandstand
Replacement of seating in the lower bowl

Construction is expected to kick off following the 2026 NRL season, with the upgraded ground on track for completion ahead of the 2028 season kick off.

The project is expected to generate approximately 130 construction jobs.

For more information, including full project details, visit the NSW Planning Portal.

Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese said:

“This is exactly the kind of investment that keeps community sport strong.

“Leichhardt Oval has been part of the fabric of Sydney’s Inner West for generations and this funding means it stays that way for generations to come.”

Federal Minister for Sport, Anika Wells said:

“Leichardt Oval has a rich history and is full of memories for so many people.

“This investment secures the future of Leichardt Oval and makes it a better place for everyone, from the grassroots to the elite level of men’s and women’s sport.”

NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully said:

“We listened to what people told us during the community exhibition and the result is a design that upgrades the facilities but keeps fans close to the action which is always the best way to watch footy.

“This approval means work can kick off to deliver a facility that respects the history of this ground, scoring points for fans and players alike with modernised facilities.”

NSW Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper said:

“We’re backing Leichhardt Oval so it can continue to be one of Australia’s great suburban sporting grounds.

“From packed hill crowds to unforgettable moments, Leichhardt Oval has earned its place in the hearts of fans, but it’s also a thriving community asset and a venue where women’s and grassroot sport continue to flourish.

Federal Member for Sydney, Tanya Plibersek said:

“Leichhardt Oval is one of Sydney’s most loved sporting grounds, and these upgrades will make sure it continues to be for years to come.

“This project that means so much to the people of the Inner West. I am excited to see work kick off soon.”

State Member for Summer Hill, Jo Haylen said:

“This is a huge win for the Inner West.

“Local clubs, junior athletes and Tigers fans have waited a long time for a ground that matches their passion, and now they are getting it.”

Inner West Mayor, Darcy Byrne said:

“Today is an important and memorable day for the Inner West following the NSW Government’s formal approval of the Leichhardt Oval renovation.

“Better than a red-letter day, this is a black-and-gold day for West Tigers fans – their spiritual home has been saved.

“The oval renovation is bigger than the Tigers and after a long community fight, we can ensure the venue will be safe with better seating and facilities for all sports, including major women’s sporting events.”

Australia and Singapore sign landmark Protocol on Economic Resilience and Essential Supplies

Australia and Singapore have signed a new Protocol on Economic Resilience and Essential Supplies under the Singapore-Australia Free Trade Agreement, strengthening cooperation on energy security, critical supply chains and trade.

The Agreement delivers on the commitment made by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on 10 April 2026 to bolster the security of essential supplies, including petrol, and to keep trade flowing during periods of disruption.

Singapore is Australia’s largest fuel supplier, providing 55 per cent of Australia’s petrol, 15 per cent of its diesel and 23 per cent of its aviation fuel. With Australia importing around 90 per cent of its fuel needs, the agreement will support both countries’ economic resilience.

The Protocol also establishes the Australia-Singapore Economic Resilience Dialogue, creating a dedicated mechanism to advance practical cooperation on shared challenges.

The Agreement was signed at the Singapore-Australia Joint Ministerial Committee (SAJMC) hosted in Adelaide today by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong, and Minister for Trade and Tourism, Don Farrell.

Marking 30 years of cooperation, the SAJMC was first established in 1996 by then Prime Ministers Keating and Goh Chok Tong. Today’s discussions demonstrate the tangible value of Australia’s relationship with Singapore, a trusted regional partner with whom we work closely to advance our shared prosperity and security.

The SAJMC follows a series of high-level engagements in recent months, including the conclusion of negotiations on the Protocol by Minister Wong and Minister Farrell in April, and the 2026 Shangri-La Dialogue in May attended by the Deputy Prime Minister Marles.

Today, Ministers also agreed to further enhance our defence ties, witnessing the signing of the Australia-Singapore Industrial Base Resiliency Arrangement.

This agreement builds on the enhanced Memorandum of Understanding on defence cooperation announced in October 2025, by strengthening cooperation between our defence industries and improving the resilience of our supply chains.

More information on the Singapore-Australia Free Trade Agreement is available at: Singapore-Australia Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA) | Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles:

“Australia’s long-standing friendship and partnership with Singapore is underscored by a deep strategic trust.”

“Our militaries have a long history of working together in our region, in support of the security and resilience of the Indo-Pacific.”

“Today we are growing our already strong defence partnership even further by strengthening cooperation between our defence forces and our defence industries.”

Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong:

“Australia and Singapore have built one of the region’s closest and most trusted partnerships, underpinned by practical cooperation across trade, defence, energy security and economic resilience.”

“At a time of increasing global uncertainty, the Protocol will help ensure Australia and Singapore can respond together to disruptions and maintain access to the supplies our economies depend on.”

“Australia and Singapore’s prosperity and security are closely linked. Together, we remain committed to strengthening the rules and institutions that support an open, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.”

Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell:

“Singapore is one of Australia’s closest trade and investment partners.”

“The signing of this Protocol is an important step to ensure Australia has what it needs to keep moving in the face of global supply chain disruptions.”

“The Protocol builds on the success of our free trade agreement and reinforces both countries’ support for open, free and fair trade.”