Category: Australian News

The Albanese Labor Government is building Australia’s future today, announcing $50 million to boost housing and deliver community infrastructure projects in Cairns and Far North Queensland.

Almost $25 million has been allocated through the Housing Support Program package to boost social housing supply across the region.  

This funding will support the delivery of increased social housing supply through the construction of enabling infrastructure and community amenities such as roads, stormwater drainage, earthworks and connection to utilities.

Five housing projects have been allocated funding across the Far North Queensland region:   

• $6.5 million to facilitate two new residential expansion areas in the north and south of Pormpuraaw.
• $1.6 million to help turn 14 lots into 34 lots in Napranum.
• $9.9 million to deliver 32 fully serviced lots in the remote indigenous community of Seisia.
• $5.1 million to support a 20-lot social housing development in Bamaga.
• $1.8 million to improve access and provide essential trunk infrastructure to the social housing development in New Mapoon.

Seven projects will share in almost $25 million of Growing Regions Program, which provides funding of between $500,000 and $15 million to local government entities and incorporated not-for-profit organisations for community infrastructure projects.

The seven successful projects, which went through a competitive, merit-based assessment process:

• $4 million for the Cairns Community and Multicultural Centre.
• $2 million to upgrade the PCYC Cairns facilities.
• $5 million to upgrade the Redlynch Community Sporting Precinct.
• $2.65 million for Stage 2 of the Cultural Knowledge Centre in Dixie for the Olkola People.
• $1.96 million for streetscape beautification and shared cycle and pedestrian paths in Mapoon.
• $7.49 million for a new council administration and community hub for Wujal Wujal.
• $1.84 million for a Digital Services Centre in Hope Vale.

The Housing Support Program is one of a range of measures designed to help achieve the ambitious national target of building 1.2 million new, well-located homes over the next 5 years. For more information, visit: Housing Support Program.

The Growing Regions Program delivers investment in infrastructure across Australia’s regional, rural and remote areas. For more information, visit: Growing Regions Program.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“My Government is building Australia’s future, today announcing more than $50 million will be allocated to infrastructure projects across Far North Queensland.

“These projects mean more houses for more Cairns locals and better community facilities to bring them together.

“We want to see more social housing and more quality community led infrastructure where people need it most.”

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

“From Pormpuraaw to Cairns, we’re boosting homes and connecting communities by building the infrastructure they deserve.

“Whether cultural or community centres, sports facilities or town centres, we want to make our regions even better places to live, work and play – and that’s what we’re investing in here in Far North Queensland.

“This builds on our significant investment in Cairns through projects such as the Cairns Water Security, CQ University and Cairns Marine Project, and of course, the $7.2 billion we announced yesterday to fix the Bruce Highway.”

Senator for Queensland Nita Green: 

“I am so proud to be part of a Government that cares about and invests in the communities of Far North Queensland.

“The investment announced today shows that our Government is listening to the needs of our region and is delivering them.”

The Greens have announced a new policy to shift to 50 cent fares for all public transport across Victoria as part of their plan for Prahran, to tackle cost of living ahead of the upcoming by-election.

Under the Greens plan, there would be an initial six month trial of 50 cent fares in Victoria, where all transport across metropolitan Melbourne and regional towns across the state will be only 50 cents as a combined cost of living and climate change measure.

50 cent fares will provide immediate cost-of-living relief by saving people $50 a week, as well as cutting climate pollution.

The estimated cost of the six month trial is $339 million, which the Greens propose can be funded by an increase to the existing online gambling levy and the introduction of a bank levy. A reduction in fare evasion and increased patronage will also reduce the cost of the policy.

The Greens say the policy is needed because people are struggling with the cost of living, and public transport fares are too expensive. The cost of this trial would be comparable to the Government’s school saving bonus – demonstrating it is realistic and affordable.

Last year the Queensland government successfully implemented 50 cent fares after a strong campaign from the Greens. After running a hugely popular trial, the change has now become permanent with tripartisan support, and has saved Queenslanders more than $110 million.

Current patronage on Victorian public transport has still not returned to pre-COVID levels and the Greens say the success of 50c fares in Queensland shows why it’s needed in Victoria.

The Greens will also be pushing for an acceleration of the integration of iPhone use to tap on and off and increased investment in public transport for more frequent services.

Quotes attributable to Acting Leader of the Victorian Greens, Sarah Mansfield:

“Under the Greens’ plan, people would be able to get to work, the bush or the beach for 50 cents.”

“The Greens’ plan would put $50 a week back into people’s pockets.”

“We know people are doing it really tough right now and getting around our city is too expensive.”

“People in Prahran want bold, positive ideas that make their lives better – that’s what the Greens plan for 50c public transport will do.”

“In Queensland public transport fares cost only 50c – there’s no reason we can’t have the same here in Victoria.”

Quotes attributable to Greens candidate for Prahran and environmental engineer, Angelica Di Camillo:

“People in Prahran love public transport but it’s expensive, and in a cost of living crisis, cutting fares to 50 cents will make a massive difference for our community who rely on public transport everyday.”

“We also need to bring public transport to the 21st century. It’s 2025 and people should be able to tap onto public transport with their phone like you can in other cities across the world.”

“If Queensland can have 50c public transport fares – why can’t we?”

Queenslanders deserve a long term plan for essential infrastructure, and the Albanese Government is delivering that certainty as we build Australia’s future.

The Albanese Government will provide an additional $7.2 billion to upgrade and fix the Bruce Highway in Queensland, to bring it up to a minimum three-star safety rating.

This historic funding is the single largest investment ever into the Bruce Highway, and brings the Australian Government’s total outlay for the 1,673 km road to more than $17 billion.

The Department of Transport and Main Roads has estimated $9 billion will achieve a minimum of three out of five-star safety rating for the entirety of the Bruce.

In recognition of the Bruce Highway’s national importance, unique challenges and dire safety record, we are committing to funding 80 per cent of that $9 billion.

Key stakeholders, including RACQ, Queensland Farmers Federation (QFF), Queensland Trucking Association (QTA), and Queensland Tourism Industry Council along with everyday Queenslanders have called for more investment and a long-term plan to fix the Bruce.

While Peter Dutton is yet to commit a dollar to the iconic Highway, the Albanese Government has prioritised fixing this key transport corridor since coming to office.

The Bruce Highway has an average Fatal and Serious Injury (FSI) crash rate three to five times higher than any major highway in New South Wales and Victoria.

As the major north-south corridor which connects Brisbane to the regional centres of Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Mackay, Townsville and Cairns, the Bruce is critical to the movement of passengers, freight and tourists across the state – supporting around 62 per cent of the population in Queensland.

The new safety package will fast-track critical projects along the whole corridor, and will initially focus on priority sections north of Gympie that have been identified by stakeholders due to their higher than average crash rates.

Priority sections include Maryborough to Benaraby, Rockhampton to St Lawrence, Bowen to Townsville and Ingham to Innisfail.

Projects within the package may include installing safety barriers, wide centre lines and audio tactile line marking; constructing wider shoulders; increasing run off areas, overtaking lanes and rest areas; and improving intersections, signage, and sight lines.

There will also be a focus on resealing and rehabilitating road surfaces for resilience to “Build Back Better”, thereby mitigating damage from increasing weather events. 

The identification and prioritisation of projects funded under the package will be informed in consultation with the Queensland Government and the Bruce Highway Advisory Council, with works commencing in 2025.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“I’ve driven the Bruce Highway many times, and I know the critical role it plays for Queenslanders, tourists and freight.

“Today’s announcement takes the total investment in the Bruce Highway to more than $17 billion.

“Queensland deserves a long-term plan, and that is what my Government is delivering.

“We’re getting on with building a better future for all Australians.”

Treasurer Jim Chalmers:

“We backed the Bruce with billions in the Budget and now we are investing billions more in the Highway that means so much to our regional and national economies.

“As a Queenslander I know how important the Bruce is to our state, from the south east corner to the tropical far north and everywhere in between.

“This is all about transporting people, goods and opportunities and linking and strengthening local communities and economies right around regional Queensland.

“As Treasurer and as a Queenslander I’m especially proud of the billions we’ve found to back the Bruce.”

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

 “Almost half the Bruce has a 2 star safety rating and that’s not good enough. This historic investment answers the call of Queenslanders to bring the Bruce up to a 3 star safety rating so Australians stop losing their loved ones on this road. 

“We are providing a significant and long-term commitment to fixing the Bruce, and I call on the Queensland Government to partner with us to get this done.”

The following is the joint statement released by the Secretary of State of the United States of America and the Foreign Ministers of Australia, India, and Japan.  The Quad is a diplomatic network of four countries committed to supporting a free and open, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific that is inclusive and resilient.

Twenty years ago, in response to the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, Australia, India, Japan, and the United States came together in service to the people of our region for the first time as the grouping now known as the Quad.  The tsunami was one of the worst disasters in history, claiming the lives of nearly a quarter million people and displacing 1.7 million across 14 countries.  Together our four countries contributed over 40,000 emergency responders, working with other partners across the Indo-Pacific region to support millions of people affected by the catastrophe.  We honor the memories of those no longer with us and recognize the survivors and the families of those who were lost.

Our foundational commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief remains strong.  We continue to work side-by-side to prepare for and respond quickly and effectively to disasters across the region.  In 2024, our four countries collectively supported disaster preparedness and life-saving relief efforts across the Indo-Pacific, and we continue to build on those efforts to identify new ways to respond rapidly to humanitarian crises and disasters.

What began as an emergency response to a catastrophe has grown into a full-fledged partnership delivering positive outcomes for the people of our region.  Quad countries now work together and with partners across the Indo-Pacific to address complex challenges, from fighting climate change, cancer, and pandemics, to bolstering quality infrastructure, maritime domain awareness, STEM education, counter-terrorism efforts, critical and emerging technologies, and cyber security.  Since 2021, the Leaders of our four nations have met annually to drive the Quad’s positive contributions across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific.

As four partners, we share a vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific that is peaceful, stable, and prosperous, underpinned by effective regional institutions.  We reaffirm our unwavering support for ASEAN’s centrality and unity as well as mainstreaming and implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific.  We respect Pacific-led regional architecture, foremost the Pacific Islands Forum.  We are also steadfast in our support for the Indian Ocean Rim Association, the region’s premier organization.

The Quad is committed to working together in responding to the future needs of the region.

The Albanese Labor Government is activating financial support for Victorians directly affected by bushfires burning in and around the Grampians National Park and Macedon Ranges – through the Disaster Recovery Allowance.

The Disaster Recovery Allowance provides up to 13 weeks of income support for workers and sole traders who have experienced loss of income as a result of recent bushfires in the Rural City of Ararat, Shire of Macedon Ranges, Shire of Northern Grampians and Shire of Southern Grampians.

It is available to people who work or live in a declared Local Government Area, who have lost some or all of their income as a direct result of the disaster, and will earn less than the average Australian weekly income in the 13 weeks after this income loss.

Applications for the Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA) will open on 30 December 2024 from 2pm AEDT.

Members of the community are encouraged to seek information regarding eligibility and how to claim on the Services Australia website.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“At the worst of times we always see the best of the Australian spirit.

“Neighbours helping each other out, communities coming together, firefighters and first responders protecting lives and livelihoods.

“That’s exactly what we’ve seen with these recent bushfires in Victoria.

“We want to make sure people in these communities can get back on their feet as quickly as possible, which is why we’re rolling out this support.”

the Minister for Government Services Bill Shorten:

“Supporting communities and workers impacted by a natural disaster is what Services Australia is geared to do.

“People should check their eligibility for the Disaster Recovery Allowance on the Services Australia website at servicesaustalia.gov.au/disastersupport.

“The easiest way to make a claim is online through myGov. If people need help to claim, they can call the Australian Government Emergency Information Line on 180 22 66.

“There may be some disruption at Services Australia service centres in affected areas over coming days. We encourage people to access services online or over the phone where possible.”

the Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister:

“The bushfires in the Grampians and Macedon Ranges have impacted the livelihoods of a number of workers, especially tourism operators during what would normally be the peak season.

“Our Government is moving quickly to activate this financial assistance so those whose incomes have been disrupted are supported in the immediate recovery phase.

“It’s critical that locals and those travelling in the area remain prepared to act in an emergency and listen to the advice from local emergency services.”

Today I announce appointments of five highly qualified individuals to lead Australian posts in Addis Ababa, Brunei, Dhaka, Jakarta and Nauru.

Our diplomats are the driver of Australia’s engagement with the world and these appointments strengthen Australia’s diplomatic capability and its prosecution of our national interests around the globe.

I am pleased to announce the following appointments:

• Dr Peter Hunter as Australia’s Ambassador to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.
• Mr Michael Hoy as Australia’s High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam.
• Ms Susan Ryle as Australia’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh.
• Mr Rod Brazier as Australia’s Ambassador to Indonesia.
• Mr Matthew Barclay as Australia’s High Commissioner to the Republic of Nauru.

I thank the outgoing high commissioners and ambassadors for their contributions to advancing Australia’s national interests.

The Australian Government is making representations to the Russian Government.

We urge the Russian Government to fully adhere to its obligations under international humanitarian law, including with respect to prisoners of war.

Our immediate priority is understanding where Mr Jenkins is and confirming his wellbeing.

We are providing consular support to Mr Jenkins’ family.

I reiterate the Government’s clear advice to all Australians – do not travel to Ukraine.

I want to wish every Australian a very merry Christmas.

For so many, this can be a chance for a well-earned break, spending time with family and catching up with friends, and creating beautiful new memories with those that we love.

For Christians, of course, this is a holy celebration.

For all of us, it is a season of generosity and kindness.

I want to say thank you to our medical workers and emergency personnel, our charity and hospitality workers and those serving in the Australian Defence Force here and overseas – everyone who has given up their Christmas to help others in our community.

You do so much to make this time of celebration and reflection possible.

Of course, the festive season isn’t easy for everyone, such as for the people of Darwin, who, for this year, I’ll be spending time with, commemorating 50 years since Cyclone Tracy devastated Australia’s most northern capital.

I do want to wish everyone the very best and a peaceful and joyful

The Australian Government will provide an additional $5 million in practical humanitarian assistance to the people of Vanuatu, following Tuesday’s tragic earthquake.

This support builds on the Australian Government’s initial $2 million package and will assist the next phase of the Vanuatu Government’s emergency response.

It includes $2.5 million for medical care for those injured, and to supply water, sanitation and hygiene products and services.

Assistance will also be directed to NGOs through the Australian Humanitarian Partnership (AHP) consortium to address the distinct needs of vulnerable community members and to the Australian Red Cross, who in partnership with the Vanuatu Red Cross will deliver services and supplies including shelter, first aid and non-food items.

An Australian Medical Assistance Team (AUSMAT), with 16 members will depart tomorrow. They will continue to support local health services to address critical injuries. The team has been drawn from across Australia, and we thank them for their contribution, especially over Christmas.

The 64-member Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART), which has been assisting with search and rescue efforts, and the six-person AUSMAT team that were deployed on Wednesday will return to Australia tomorrow.

The Royal Australian Air Force will conduct two further flights to Port Vila today. Commercial flights are now resuming.

Australians should be proud of the emergency rescue and medical teams that deployed less than 24 hours after the earthquake. We are grateful to all of those involved in Australia’s response for their work.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is continuing to provide consular assistance where needed to Australians present in the affected region.

Australians in need of emergency consular assistance should contact the Australian Government 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre (+61 2 6261 3305 from overseas or 1300 555 135 in Australia).

Senator Mehreen Faruqi, Deputy Leader of the Australian Greens and spokesperson for Higher Education, has reacted to Labor’s replacement of Ministerial Direction 107 with Ministerial Direction 111. 

Senator Mehreen Faruqi:

“Finally, the worst of MD107 which was throttling the tertiary education sector, is gone but Labor is using the same flawed international student caps that were thoroughly rejected by the Senate and the sector for their new MD111. This shows that the heart of the issue remains unchanged.

“This might be a small reprieve for a sector that has been crushed for too long, but implementing international student caps by stealth through a ministerial direction is sneaky and does not tackle the issues universities face.

“Labor continues to dog whistle and blame international students and migrants for the housing crisis they did not cause. The Albanese government should be ashamed of competing with Dutton’s Coalition in the terrible race to see who wins on punching down on migrants the hardest.”