Hospitality roadshow arrives in Canterbury Bankstown

Hospitality venue operators in Canterbury Bankstown can access regulatory guidance, business support and industry updates through the NSW Government’s Hospitality and Racing Regulatory Roadshow.

The NSW Government’s Hospitality and Racing Regulatory Roadshow is hitting Canterbury Bankstown today with a renewed focus to enable on-the-ground support for local venues through the Hospitality Concierge.

Now in its fourth year, the Roadshow will be held at the Canterbury Leagues Club from 9.30am-12.30pm.

The event that brings venue operators, licensees, industry representatives and community leaders together with senior executives from Liquor & Gaming NSW and the Office of Responsible Gambling for information sessions about licensing, compliance, upcoming policy developments and industry support.

Attendees will hear about key regulatory developments, emerging hospitality and gaming trends, and practical initiatives to support compliance, safety and business growth.

Also in attendance is the Hospitality Concierge, the Government’s dedicated, tailored support service for licensed venue operators, helping them understand regulatory requirements, access government support and make the most of new opportunities.

Other support services showcased at the session include:

  • guidance on licensing and compliance requirements,
  • advice on incentives supporting live music and extended trading,
  • insights into the Liquor & Gaming NSW 2026 Regulatory Priorities, and
  • connections to local Liquor Accords and industry support services.

Information stalls will give operators the opportunity to connect directly with teams across Hospitality and Racing and GambleAware service providers.

Following the Regulatory Roadshow, there is an opportunity to join the in-person ClubGRANTS session at 1.00pm covering key insights from the 2025 round, eligibility and assessment tips, reporting requirements, and preparing your 2026 return, followed by a Q&A session.

The Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner will also be hosting an interactive session on Special Entertainment Precincts at 1.00pm, highlighting opportunities for businesses to operate more flexibly and support a vibrant night-time economy.

As part of the visit, senior leaders from Hospitality and Racing will also meet with local councils, Aboriginal networks and community stakeholders to discuss local priorities and strengthen partnerships around alcohol-related harm minimisation, gambling harm reduction and venue sustainability.

The Canterbury Bankstown Roadshow follows successful visits to Griffith and Moree earlier this year, and Bega Valley, Broken Hill, Albury, the Central Coast and Ballina during 2025. Additional Roadshow events are planned for Deniliquin and Queanbeyan later this year.

For event details and to register visit Canterbury Bankstown Regulatory Roadshow.

To find out how the Hospitality Concierge can help your licensed business visit Contact the Hospitality Concierge.

To register or find information about the ClubGRANTS session visit ClubGRANTS Scheme Information Session for Registered Clubs Canterbury Bankstown.

For information about the Special Entertainment Precincts session visit Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner Special Entertainment Precincts information session. 

Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said:

“It’s wonderful to bring the Regulatory Roadshow to the vibrant hospitality area that is Canterbury Bankstown.

“The Roadshow reflects the NSW Government’s commitment to working closely with the hospitality sector and ensuring venue operators have access to the broad range of support, information and services available to them.

“Hospitality businesses play a key role in local economies and communities like those in Canterbury Bankstown, including helping shape the character and identity of these places.

“By bringing government agencies, industry experts and local stakeholders together, the Roadshow helps strengthen relationships and supports a more vibrant and sustainable hospitality sector.”

Member for Canterbury Sophie Cotsis said:

“Canterbury is a wonderful multicultural hub that’s bursting with amazing eateries and venue-packed entertainment strips making it the perfect location for the Regulatory Roadshow.  

“The Roadshow is a fantastic opportunity for local venue operators to get face-to-face with industry experts to source all the information and support that’s on offer to help run their businesses even better.

“I encourage local venue operators to make the most of the great opportunity to not only soak up all the invaluable information on offer at the Roadshow but to also feedback with ideas and ways things could be done better.” 

Australia’s first Blue Plaque Trail commemorates the 1965 Freedom Ride

Australia’s first Blue Plaque Trail has been unveiled to commemorate the 1965 Freedom Ride, a landmark civil rights journey that played an instrumental role in raising awareness of racial injustice and building momentum for reconciliation action in Australia.

Warning: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this media release contains the name of a person who has passed away.

In February 1965, a group of 30 students led by Dr Charles Perkins, travelled for two weeks by bus through regional NSW. Called the ‘Freedom Ride’, the journey brought national attention to discriminatory laws, practices and segregation, and pushed for greater equality and recognition for Aboriginal people.

Six newly unveiled Blue Plaques now mark significant locations along the original route, creating a Trail that invites visitors to retrace the journey and discover the stories, people and events that contributed to lasting social change.

Through interactive QR codes at each location, visitors can uncover the stories behind the 1965 Freedom Ride, ensuring the legacy of those who travelled the route in pursuit of equality continues to educate and inspire.

The new plaques join two existing Blue Plaques on the Trail, located at the Wayside Chapel on Gadigal Land in Sydney and Freedom Ride Memorial Park on Gomeroi Country in Walgett.

The Trail includes new plaques at:

  • Dubbo, Wiradjuri Country: Former Fire Station
  • Gulargambone, Weilwan Country: Two Eight Two Eight Information Centre
  • Moree, Kamilaroi Country: War Memorial Hall
  • Boggabilla, Bigambul and Gamilaraay Country: Leonard Victor Waters Memorial Park
  • Bowraville, Gumbaynggirr Country: Bowraville Theatre
  • Kempsey, Dunghutti Country: McElhone Swimming Complex

The Trail’s route was developed with the input of more than 100 community members and organisations, who helped identify the towns and significant locations to be recognised with Blue Plaques.

The 1965 Freedom Ride Blue Plaque Trail has been established by Heritage NSW.

For more information visit: environment.nsw.gov.au/blue-plaques

Minister for Heritage Penny Sharpe said:

“The 1965 Freedom Ride is one of the most significant civil rights events in our state’s history.

“NSW was profoundly changed because Aboriginal people and their allies spoke up against discrimination, and the Freedom Ride helped bring those injustices into the open.

“It’s never been more important to recognise the shoulders we stand on and the people who fought for change.”

Treasurer Daniel Moohkey said:

“Australia’s first Blue Plaque Trail means the public can follow in the footsteps of a movement that shaped NSW and our nation.

“The Freedom Ride will be visible, accessible and remembered from town to town, for generations to come.

“This trail connects visitors to places where important conversations about equality and justice unfolded.”

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said:

“The NSW Government is committed to reconciliation and working in partnership with Aboriginal communities and organisations to close the gap and improve the lives and opportunities for Aboriginal people living in NSW.

“The Blue Plaques Trail acknowledges the courage, resilience and strength of the original Freedom Riders and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples who, now and in the past, have led the way for racial equality in Australia.”

Garry Williams, Freedom Rider said:

“The late Charles Perkins and I, as the first Aboriginal students at Sydney University, were joined on the bus by about 30 other members of Student Action For Aborigines (SAFA).

“I am pleased that Australia’s first Blue Plaques Trail will commemorate the 1965 Freedom Ride that Sydney University students undertook to highlight the blatant discrimination and social injustice suffered by Aboriginal people in the towns and cities of NSW.

“I know that Aboriginal people in these towns are looking forward to seeing the Freedom Ride commemorated in this way.

“It is fitting that plaques along the trail will include Moree and Kempsey, where we demonstrated against the exclusion of Aboriginal children from swimming pools, Walgett, where we demonstrated against the exclusion of Aboriginal ex-servicemen from the RSL club, and Bowraville, in my home country, where we broke the colour bar in the local hotel.

I was able to join the bus in Bowraville and Kempsey. Following the Freedom Ride, I saw, in Sydney, an influx of young Aboriginal people from those areas who were now inspired by the actions of the Freedom Riders, and were more confident to come to the city.”

Charles Perkins Jr, Grandson of Charles Perkins said:

“The legacy of Dr. Charles Perkins and the Freedom Riders cannot be understated. Their revolutionary spirit lives on within every Australian, Indigenous or not.

“That momentous action to directly confront the racial discrimination and segregation in New South Wales gave courage and hope to Aboriginal people across Australia. It inspires us, as his direct family, to continue on in his spirit regardless of the obstacles that Aboriginal Australians still face.

“We are honoured that this history can be physically etched into the country where it took place. Undoubtedly, the recognition of the NSW Government through the fantastic Blue Plaques Program can give a small peace to the members of communities that the Freedom Ride inspired.”

Minns Labor Government backs NSW exporters to unlock new global opportunities

The Minns Labor Government is strengthening support for businesses in New South Wales to expand into international markets, launching a renewed suite of export programs designed to help local companies grow, create jobs and reach more customers around the world.

Exporting can be a game changer for local businesses – unlocking new customers, creating new revenue opportunities and building resilience through market diversification.  

The programs support the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to growing the state’s international trade performance and ensuring NSW businesses are well positioned to capture opportunities across Asia, North America, Europe, the United Kingdom and the Middle East. They also seek to build momentum on Australia’s recent Free Trade Agreements with the European Union and the United Arab Emirates.  

To help businesses seize these opportunities, the NSW Government is delivering targeted support at every phase of the export journey, from helping early stage businesses lay the groundworks to export, through to connecting established businesses with new customers, partners and buyers in international markets.

Export Capability Building Program (ECBP)

The refreshed Export Capability Building Program will deliver 13 workshops throughout 2026-27, providing businesses with structured guidance to assess export readiness, develop market entry strategies and build practical exporting skills.  

Communities of Practice (CoP) for Exporters  

Complementing this, a new Communities of Practice for Exporters will connect experienced exporters with businesses looking to expand internationally, creating industry-focused networks across agrifood, digital technology, and life sciences and healthcare.  

Over four sessions, the program aims to connect more than 100 businesses through peer learning, mentoring and the sharing of market insights.

2026/27 Going Global Export Program (GGEP) and Going Global Trade Missions (GGTM)

Over 30 Going Global Export Programs and Going Global Trade Missions are planned for 2026/27, giving NSW businesses the opportunity to travel to key overseas markets, participate in international trade shows, meet prospective buyers and build valuable business connections.

Delivered by Investment NSW and in partnership with the Australian Government through Austrade’s Accessing New Markets Initiative, the programs are designed to help businesses expand their global footprint and turn export opportunities into commercial outcomes.

GGEPs support small and medium-sized businesses to enter new markets or diversify their export footprint through tailored market insights, expert advice and international business connections.

GGTMs support experienced and high-growth exporters to accelerate expansion into priority markets and pursue new commercial opportunities overseas.

The GGEPs and GGTMs will target key markets across Southeast Asia, North Asia, China, India, North America, UK, Europe and the Middle East, with opportunities spanning sectors including agrifood, digital technology, life sciences and healthcare, clean energy, manufacturing and mining equipment, technology and services (METS).

Together, these three initiatives support the NSW Trade and Investment Strategy, and align with the priorities of the NSW Industry Policy, helping businesses expand and diversify exports while driving economic growth across the state.  

One business already benefiting from the NSW Government’s export support is Apollo Engineering, a Tamworth-based manufacturer of cleaning equipment for heavy machinery in the mining and transport industries.

After participating in an ECBP workshop in 2023, Apollo took part in a GGEP that connected the company with distributors in Indonesia. The business subsequently secured new distribution agreements, generating export sales and creating a strong pipeline for future growth.

Other businesses supported include:

Biointelect – NSW life sciences company that, with NSW Government support, expanded into the United States and Republic of Korea, building international partnerships and growing exports.

PowerStack  – Wollongong-based clean energy technology company that secured export sales in the Middle East and expanded into global markets with support from the NSW Government.

Renovatio – Sydney health and wellness business that has grown into a multi-million-dollar exporter, expanding into the United States through major retail and distribution partnerships while creating demand for Australian-grown produce.

For more information on how the NSW Government is supporting businesses to export visit www.nsw.gov.au/business-and-economy/export-from-nsw.  

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“NSW businesses have world-class products, services and expertise, and the Minns Labor Government wants to see more of them competing – and winning – on the global stage.

“Strong exports create local jobs, drive investment in NSW and strengthen our economy, which is why we’re investing in practical support to help businesses expand into new international markets.

“The NSW Export Support Program 2026-27 delivers on our NSW Trade and Investment Strategy and complements the NSW Industry Policy by helping businesses reach new customers, enter new markets and grow their global footprint.

“In a rapidly changing global trading environment, diversifying export markets has never been more important. These programs will give NSW businesses the confidence, skills and connections they need to seize new opportunities and grow.”

Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said:

“PowerStack is a great example of the innovation and manufacturing capability we have here in the Illawarra.

“The NSW Government’s export support programs are helping businesses like PowerStack access new markets, grow their customer base and create new opportunities for local jobs.

“It’s fantastic to see an Illawarra company exporting world-leading clean energy technology and showcasing our region’s expertise on the global stage.”

Business Sydney Executive Director Paul Nicolaou said:

“NSW businesses have enormous potential to grow through exports, but success in international markets requires the right connections, insights and support.

“The NSW Export Support Program 2026-27 will help more businesses take advantage of global opportunities and strengthen New South Wales’ position as Australia’s leading trading state.

“We look forward to continuing to work with government and industry to support NSW businesses to grow their global footprint and strengthen the state’s trade performance.”

PowerStack Energy Chief Executive Officer Michael Bragg said:  

“There are numerous global markets that are a natural fit for our technology, particularly in regions where rapidly deployable, off-grid energy solutions are in high demand.

“Support from the Investment NSW has helped us access new markets and showcase our technology to key customers and stakeholders. The guidance they provided has proven invaluable in navigating entry to these markets.

“That has been critical in helping us grow our export pipeline and position the business for further expansion globally.”

Renovatio Founder Dr Vincent Candrawinata said:  

“Expanding into global markets has been a key driver of our business growth, allowing us to showcase Australian grown apples and patented technology in our innovative health supplement, healthy pantry and skincare range to the world.

“The incredible connections, guidance and support provided through Investment NSW programs have been instrumental in helping us scale into the US market.

“It’s enabled us to grow our operations at home while increasing demand for Australian-grown produce.”

Apollo Engineering Managing Director Dave Errington said:  

“Exporting has opened up entirely new growth opportunities for our business and allowed us to take Australian-made manufacturing to global markets.

“The support we received helped us build the right connections on the ground in Indonesia and navigate the complexity of entering a new market.

“It’s enabled us to scale with confidence and continue growing our international footprint from regional NSW.”

Biointelect Chief Executive Officer Leah Goodman said:  

“Support from Investment NSW has been an important element in enabling our business growth into international markets and connecting with the right partners, particularly in the United States and Asia.” 

NSW Liberals and Nationals guarantee frontline jobs in AI race

A Sloane Liberal and Nationals Government will guarantee frontline workers are not replaced by artificial intelligence, while also harnessing new technology to lift productivity, deliver better government services, cut waste and strengthen the NSW economy.
 
After the 2027 election, the NSW Liberals and Nationals will appoint a dedicated Minister for Artificial Intelligence to lead the responsible adoption of AI across government and drive productivity improvements throughout the public sector.
 
A NSW Jobs Guarantee and AI Efficiency Act would also dictate the responsible use of artificial intelligence across government protecting key workers including nurses, police officers, paramedics, and teachers.
 
Key parts of the legislation include:

  • No frontline worker will lose their job to AI.
  • Government agencies will be required to identify practical ways AI can improve services and reduce unnecessary waste.
  • All significant government decisions involving AI will retain human oversight and be subject to strong privacy, governance and independent auditing requirements.

Leader of the Opposition Kellie Sloane said the NSW Liberals and Nationals have a plan to capture the productivity benefits of AI without abandoning frontline workers and public trust.


“Our frontline workers are the backbone of NSW and under a government I lead AI will be used to support them, not replace them,” Ms Sloane said.
 
“There is a huge opportunity through the use of AI to lift productivity across government by reducing paperwork, speeding up decision making and giving frontline workers more time to do what the community relies on them for.”
 
“A dedicated Minister for Artificial Intelligence will be responsible for driving this reform, measuring productivity gains and ensuring they translate into a government that works harder for people in NSW.”
 
The NSW Liberals and Nationals will also establish a NSW AI Solutions Fund, bringing government, universities and technology sector together to support public interest projects.
 
Shadow Minister for Digital, Artificial Intelligence and Investment James Griffin said the fund would help finance projects in areas which include disaster response, traffic congestion and future infrastructure planning.
 
“NSW should be leading the Asia-Pacific region in responsible use of AI, attracting investment and creating jobs while also ensuring a benefit to the community,” Mr Griffin said.
 
“We want to bring together government, universities and industry to solve real problems, from improving disaster response to better congestion management on our roads to get people home quicker.”
 
“At a time when people feel like they’re working harder than ever, NSW cannot afford to ignore technology that ensures government is also working as hard as possible for them.”
 
The legislation builds on the work done by the former Liberal and Nationals Government in creating Service NSW, the NSW Data Analytics Centre, Australia’s first Data Sharing Act in 2015, and the NSW Government Data Strategy in 2021.

New data raises fresh concerns about NSW skills pipeline

Concerns have grown about the State’s ability to meet future workforce demand, with the latest National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) data showing New South Wales’ skills pipeline continues to weaken with falling qualification enrolments.
 
Shadow Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Justin Clancy said businesses across New South Wales continue to warn they cannot find the skilled workers they need, and the latest data suggesting the pipeline is moving in the wrong direction.
 
“Everywhere you look, employers are telling us they need more skilled workers. The latest NCVER figures suggest we’re producing fewer of them,” Mr Clancy said.
 
“The warning signs have been there for some time, so this latest NCVER data should be sounding alarm bells for the Minns Labor Government.”
 
“Apprenticeship and traineeship commencements in New South Wales have fallen from 65,265 in 2022 to 39,630 in 2025, a decline of almost 40 per cent. The number of apprentices and trainees in training has also fallen by almost 25 per cent.”
 
“Alongside falling apprenticeship commencements, qualification enrolments are now declining at a time when employers across New South Wales continue to report persistent skills shortages.”
 
Mr Clancy said the latest figures showed there was an increasing disconnect between what the Minns Government said about skills and what was actually happening on the ground.
 
“When apprenticeship commencements are down and the number of apprentices in training are down, the Minns Government must explain how their policies are delivering the outcomes New South Wales needs,” Mr Clancy said.
 
“Businesses don’t need more announcements. They need more qualified workers on their books.” 
 
Mr Clancy said the Liberals and Nationals are committed to rebuilding the skills pipeline by strengthening apprenticeships, backing employers and ensuring training better reflected the needs of industry.
 
“We need to make it easier for employers to take on apprentices, strengthen career advice in schools and ensure training better reflects the needs of industry.”
 
“Right now, the evidence suggests we are falling short. That’s not good enough for students, employers or the future of New South Wales.”

Anytime anywhere knife wanding to protect the community

NSW Police will have the power to conduct knife wanding searches in any public place and at any time under a commonsense reform proposed by the NSW Liberals and Nationals.
 
The NSW Opposition will move amendments to the Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Amendment (Knife Scanning) Bill 2026 when Parliament resumes in August to better protect the community.
 
The law changes follow an inquest into the Westfield Bondi Junction attack in which six people were killed and a recommendation by NSW State Coroner Magistrate Teresa O’Sullivan to assess whether knife scanning operations should be allowed at crowded places without the need for a declaration.
 
Leader of the Opposition Kellie Sloane said knife scanning should occur wherever police have reasonable concerns.
 
“The clumsy process of requiring a senior police officer to make a declaration every 24 hours setting out where and when knife wanding would take place is a waste of police time and undermines the effectiveness of our officers,” Ms Sloane said.
 
“Our anytime, anywhere policy is exactly the kind of commonsense tool we need to equip our police with so they are empowered to protect the community from knife crimes.”
 
Acting Shadow Attorney General Susan Carter said the Minns Labor Government is creating new loopholes in its current Bill.
 
“The Minns Labor Government’s approach is reckless and absurd in narrowing the scope of police wanding operations on public transport to just the first two stations either side of a declared public transport area,” Ms Carter said.
 
“A knife carrier who tried to avoid wanding at a Parramatta station platform and jumped on an express to Central would be successful unless a police officer succeeded not only in jumping on the same train but wanding the offender within the 150 seconds it would take to pass Granville.”
 
Shadow Minister for Police and Counter Terrorism Anthony Roberts said a handheld wand is a simple and minimally intrusive tool that can help police detect a weapon before it is used.
 
“Knife crime can happen anywhere, anytime, and police need the flexibility to respond wherever the risk emerges,” Mr Roberts said.
 
“Our police officers make difficult operational decisions every day. They should be trusted to determine when and where knife wanding is needed to keep people safe.”
 
The amendments would retain existing safeguards governing the use of knife-scanning powers, including requirements for police to explain the search and identify themselves.

Statement on leadership of the ACTU

Working families are in a stronger financial position today than they would otherwise be because of the tireless advocacy and strong leadership of Sally McManus and Michele O’Neil.

Sally and Michele secured incredible successes for working people in their eight years together leading Australia’s union movement – the first all-female leadership team in the Australian Council of Trade Unions’ 99-year history. 

It is fitting that Sally and Michele announce they’re stepping down from their respective positions at a time when there have been significant wage increases in critical and long-undervalued sectors, the gender pay gap is at a record low and union membership is growing for the first time in decades.

The announcement also comes mere days after Sally and Michele’s valued contributions at the 50th Australian Labor Party National Conference, a gathering which strongly backed working families to earn more and keep more of what they earn.

Personally, I will miss the friendship and support these two giants of the labour movement have offered me over many years, but especially since I became Labor Leader in 2019 and then Prime Minister is 2022. 

I wish both Sally and Michele all the very best in wherever their next paths lead and look forward to working with the new leadership team of the ACTU once they’re in place.

First step announced to develop potential new oil refinery for Australia

The Albanese and Cook Labor Governments have announced they will kick off investigations into building a new oil refinery in Western Australia. The project is proposed by Perdaman, and would help strengthen energy security in Australia.

The Prime Minister and Premier travelled to Karratha to announce they will conduct a jointly funded $4 million pre-feasibility study for a new large-scale oil refinery, which would be built by Perdaman.

This refinery would create thousands of jobs, boost the local economy and help to secure Australia’s fuel security, particularly diesel for regional communities in WA.

The Perdaman facility could be the first new large-scale petrol refinery built in Australia since the 1960s, creating a major boost to local jobs and manufacturing as part of the Cook Labor Government’s Made in WA plan and the Albanese Labor Government’s Future Made in Australia plan.

Australia currently has two refineries, in Brisbane, Queensland and Geelong, Victoria, after four refineries closed under the former Coalition Government.

This is the first agreement to be signed as part of the Albanese Government’s $10 million support for feasibility studies into new or expanded fuel refining capabilities, building on work with current refinery operators to retain current refining capability in the decade beyond 2030.

The study is part of the $15 billion Federal Government package to secure Australia’s fuel security now and ensure our energy sovereignty into the future. This package includes: 

  • $7.5 billion for the establishment of a Fuel and Fertiliser Security Facility to increase supply and storage of fuel and fertiliser.
  • $3.2 billion to establish a Government-owned Australian Fuel Security Reserve of around a billion litres focussed on diesel and jet fuel.
  • A 10-day uplift to the Minimum Stockholding Obligation for petrol, diesel and jet fuel.
  • $3.3 billion to reduce the fuel excise and slash the Heavy Vehicle Road User Charge for four months to help with the cost of living.
  • $1 billion in interest free loans through the National Reconstruction Fund’s Economic Resilience Program, to provide cashflow relief to manufacturing and logistics businesses in critical supply chains.

The announcement was made by the Prime Minister and Premier while visiting Perdaman’s Project Ceres in Karratha, which will produce around 2.3 million tonnes of urea each year, when fully operational.

Project Ceres is supported by Government loans of around $475 million for the project and supporting infrastructure. It is estimated that the project will create 2,500 jobs during construction, 200 ongoing jobs when it is up and running and estimated to deliver $8.5 billion in public benefit.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“The longer war in the Middle East goes on the greater the impact on Australia will be, and my Government will continue to do everything we can to shield Australia from the worst effects – and set us up for the future.

“My Government’s working to advance Australia’s interests – not just in this crisis but going forward as well to ensure we can meet future challenges.”

Premier of Western Australia Roger Cook:

“My government’s steady and experienced leadership has helped make Western Australia’s economy the strongest in the nation.

“It has allowed us to put WA first and prioritise getting fuel in bowsers during the war in Iran. 

“Now, as part of my government’s Made in WA plan, I am proud to join the Albanese Labor Government to support Perdaman’s efforts to rebuild our State’s capacity to produce and distribute its own fuel.

“This includes diesel to support the regional communities which drive WA’s economy and which have been most at risk amid this conflict.

“While many Western Australians remain anxious about our State’s fuel security, we are doing everything it can to address these concerns by working with the Commonwealth to provide steady and experienced leadership and continue delivering our Made in WA plan.”

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen:

“At a time when overseas conflicts demonstrate the fragility of energy supply chains, investing in further onshore sovereign fuel refining capability is a sensible and prudent response to secure our energy security.

“Our Government will continue to work hard to ensure fuel supply remains secure now, while working with all states and territories to build a more sovereign and secure energy system for our country for decades to come.”

Western Australian Energy Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:

 “The Cook Labor Government’s nation-leading response to the fuel crisis has shored up supply and kept WA moving.

“A fuel refinery in the west will build further resilience into our energy system, keeping our $90 billion mining industry running and securing our economy against future shocks.

“I’m pleased that the Albanese Government is listening and delivering for Western Australians.”

AAMI Crash Index: Pennant Hills Road in Carlingford named Sydney’s worst crash hotspot

Pennant Hills Road in Carlingford has overtaken the Hume Highway in Liverpool as Sydney’s worst crash hotspot in the 2026 AAMI Crash Index. o Nose-to-tail remains Sydney’s most common crash type, followed by failure to give way and stationary object collisions o AAMI Driver Rewards data shows Sydney drivers recorded the lowest overall driving score of Australia’s major capital cities, with braking and acceleration identified as the biggest opportunities for improvement. Pennant Hills Road in Carlingford has been named Sydney’s worst crash hotspot, according to the 2026 AAMI Crash Index, knocking Hume Highway in Liverpool out of Sydney’s top spot. The latest AAMI Crash Index analysed more than 394,000 motor insurance claims lodged across Australia between 1 January and 31 December 2025, including almost 88,500 claims in Sydney. Rather than simply identifying just one particularly dangerous road, the Crash Index data paints a broader picture of Sydney’s crash problem, with the city’s worst hotspots sharing similar characteristics – major arterial roads, traffic lights, busy intersections, shopping precincts and high volumes of turning traffic. Sydney’s Top Five Crash Hotspots Rank Crash Hotspot Worst Intersection 1. Pennant Hills Road, Carlingford Pennant Hills Road & North Rocks Road Most Common Crash Type 2. Nose to tail Hume Highway, Liverpool Hume Highway & Cumberland Highway 3. Nose to tail Epping Road, North Ryde Epping Road & Wicks Road 4. Nose to tail Windsor Road, Baulkham Hills Windsor Road & Cook Street 5. Nose to tail Victoria Road, West Ryde Victoria Road & Adelaide Street The driving habits behind Sydney’s crashes Nose to tail While the AAMI Crash Index reveals where Sydney drivers are crashing, data from thousands of motorists using the AAMI Driver Rewards (ADR) technology via the AAMI App provides insights into how they’re driving… and where they can improve. The driving behaviour insights are based on Australians using ADR and provide a unique view of real-world driving habits across Sydney. Drivers are provided with a driving score (out of 100) across five key behaviours – speeding, distraction, acceleration, braking and cornering. The good news is Sydney drivers are generally doing the right thing when it comes to speed, recording an impressive average speeding score of 95.2 out of a possible 100. Phone distraction also performed strongly, with an average score of 88.1. However, braking was Sydney drivers’ lowest scoring behaviour at 74.3, followed by acceleration at 75.3 and cornering at 76.6. Sydney also recorded the lowest overall driving score of Australia’s major capital cities at 80.2, suggesting local motorists could benefit from anticipating traffic conditions earlier, leaving a bigger gap, taking extra care at intersections and driving more smoothly in stop-start traffic. When combined with AAMI’s claims data, a clear picture emerges – Sydney’s biggest crash problem isn’t excessive speed, it’s everyday driving behaviours like failing to give way, braking late, following too closely and reacting too slowly in busy traffic. Quotes attributable to AAMI Motor Prevention Manager, Mary Kennedy “Along Pennant Hills Road in Carlingford, the intersection with North Rocks Road stood out as the most dangerous, Ms Kennedy said.” “Pennant Hills Road in Carlingford may have taken out Sydney’s unwanted crash crown, but the bigger story is what the top hotspots have in common. “These are busy arterial roads with traffic lights, major intersections, shopping precincts and constant turning movements, where even a momentary lapse in concentration can lead to a crash. “What’s interesting in Sydney is that nose to tail crashes are the city’s most common crash type. That tells us intersections, turning movements and decision-making under pressure are a real challenge for Sydney drivers. “The vast majority of claims we’re seeing aren’t high-speed collisions. They’re everyday bingles like failing to give way, nose to tail crashes and reversing into another vehicle or hitting a parked car, which means they’re also some of the most preventable. “Afternoons remain Sydney’s peak prang time, when school pick-ups, commuters, shoppers and heavier traffic volumes all converge. It’s a timely reminder to slow down mentally as much as physically, stay patient and expect the unexpected. “What’s particularly interesting is how closely our driving behaviour data aligns with our claims data. Sydney drivers score exceptionally well when it comes to managing their speed but braking and acceleration are where we see the greatest opportunity for improvements. “That tells us Sydney doesn’t necessarily have a speeding problem – it has a gap, give-way and concentration problem. Leaving yourself an extra second or two to react, taking extra care at intersections and remaining focused when behind the wheel can make all the difference between getting home safely and ending up in a crash. “The AAMI Crash Index isn’t about naming and shaming crash hotspots or drivers. It’s about giving Australians practical insights into where crashes happen, and how we can make small changes to keep ourselves – and everyone else on the road – safer.” 2026 AAMI Crash Index: Sydney by the numbers Total claims analysed: #1 crash hotspot: 88,400+ Pennant Hills Road, Carlingford Most common crash types: 1. Nose-to-tail (32%) 2. Failure to give way (28%) 3. Collision with a stationary object (18%) Peak prang time: Worst day for crashes: Afternoons (1pm – 4:30pm) Wednesday Biggest offenders: • Drivers aged 65+ Top vehicle makes involved in crashes: • Male drivers 1. Toyota 2. Mazda 3. Hyundai 4. Honda 5. Kia Most common vehicle colours involved in crashes: 1. White 2. Grey 3. Silver [ENDS] Notes to Editor Claims data collected from AAI Limited trading as AAMI. Data sourced from motor insurance claims from AAI Limited’s portfolio of brands from 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025. AAI Limited trading as AAMI. Data from AAMI App, 50,123 ADR participants in Australia aged 18+ (1 January 2025 – 31 December 2025).

Structural work complete as construction progresses on redevelopment of Gillieston Public School

Construction of the multi-million-dollar redevelopment of Gillieston Public School is well progressed, with NSW Premier Chris Minns and Member for Maitland Jenny Aitchison visiting the site today to see how the new permanent buildings are taking shape.
When it opens on Day 1 Term 1, 2027, students will be learning in state-of-the-art permanent classrooms after decades in demountables, which multiplied across the site for years as the former Liberal National government failed to address long-standing enrolment growth.
The redevelopment of the school will deliver 32 new modern classrooms, three support classrooms, a new library and a new hall with a canteen, new outdoor spaces and upgraded sports facilities as well as an outside of school hours (OOSH) care facilities.
The new permanent buildings will cater for over 730 students, replacing 20 demountable classrooms, which had become a fixture in which the majority of students were learning under the Liberals and Nationals.
It will also include a new public preschool, one of 100 new public preschools the Minns Labor Government is delivering across NSW by 2027.
The onsite public preschool will have capacity for up to 120 children per week as part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to expand access to public early learning.
Structural works for the main three-storey school building have been completed, and the internal fit out is progressing well. The steel framework for the hall is in place, and internal fit out for the preschool is almost complete.
The delivery of new classrooms is being matched with more teachers in our schools, with teacher vacancies across   public schools in Maitland by   falling by 73   per cent under this government.
This follows the Minns Labor Government’s move to abolish the Liberals and Nationals’ wages cap, delivering NSW teachers the biggest pay rise in a generation.
The Minns Labor Government is prioritising investment in new and upgraded public schools in Maitland, with recent growth rates indicating the region will exceed the projected population trajectory of 144,500 residents by 2041.
In addition to the Gillieston Public School redevelopment, the education infrastructure pipeline for Maitland includes:
· Thornton Public School upgrade
· New public primary school in Chisholm with co-located public early learning
· Relocation and expansion of Maitland Grossmann High School
· New public preschool at Tenambit Public School
In the broader Hunter region, the Minns Labor Government is also building the new and upgraded schools growing communities need, including a new public primary school in Huntlee and a new high school in Medowie. 
The projects are part of a record $9.2 billion investment by the NSW Government in school infrastructure through the 2026-27 Budget, which includes $2.3 billion for new and upgraded schools across regional NSW. 
NSW Premier Chris Minns said:
“We’re removing the demountables that took over Gillieston Public School by investing in the schools, early learning facilities and teachers that that fast-growing communities in Maitland urgently need.
“It’s fantastic to see construction progressing well on this project, which will next year welcome local students and preschoolers for the first time into the state-of-the-art classrooms they deserve.
“We aren’t just building the schools that communities need, we’re also making sure that they have teachers in them by driving down teacher vacancies.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said:
“Maitland is the fastest-growing part of NSW outside of Western Sydney, and the Minns Labor Government is ensuring young families who move here to build their lives have access to a world-class, local public school.
“For years and years the Liberals and Nationals thought it was good enough to leave the majority of students at Gillieston Public School learning inside ageing demountables.
“Labor believes students deserve to learn and grow in high-quality, permanent classrooms and that’s exactly what we are delivering for families in Gillieston.”
Member for Maitland Jenny Aitchison said:
“It’s incredibly exciting to see the new and improved Gillieston Public School coming together right in front of us. This is an investment in Gillieston’s future and a promise delivered for local families, who have been advocating for these upgrades for years.
“With 35 modern classrooms and a brand-new preschool, this redevelopment will transform education in Gillieston, giving local students access to the high-quality facilities they deserve.”
Gillieston Public School Principal Lauren Fernando said:
“Our school community has experienced significant growth, and we are incredibly excited to see this project continue to take shape. The new facilities will build on the strong learning environment already established at Gillieston Public School and provide contemporary spaces that will support our students, staff and community well into the future.
“These new learning spaces will provide our teachers with flexible and engaging environments that support high-quality teaching and help every student to learn and grow.
“We are delighted by the progress that has been made and look forward to welcoming our students, families and staff into the new facilities in 2027.”