Category: Newcastle News

The Minns Labor Government is encouraging businesses across the Hunter to attend the NSW Government’s ASEAN Market Update in Newcastle on Thursday, 27 August to explore export opportunities in Southeast Asia and hear from market experts and successful NSW exporters.
 
The free event is part of the Government’s plan to grow the state’s economy, support local jobs and help more NSW businesses expand into high-growth international markets.
 
Local businesses will come together to learn about key market trends, sector-specific opportunities and real-world exporter experiences in one of the world’s most dynamic regions, covering markets including Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.
 
Southeast Asia is expected to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2040, fuelled by rising incomes, industrialisation, urbanisation and digital adoption, creating significant opportunities for NSW exporters.
 
The Hunter is home to world-class businesses with strengths across advanced manufacturing, food and beverage, clean technology, mining equipment, technology and services, and professional services, making the region well placed to capitalise on growing demand across Southeast Asia.
 
Attendees will receive practical market intelligence and hear case studies from Hunter businesses already exporting to the region, including:
 
· Macka’s Australian Black Angus: a Hunter-based family-owned premium Black Angus beef producer supplying domestic and international markets
· Anditi: a Newcastle technology company specialising in geospatial analytics, spatial data and AI-driven insights.
· Tamburlaine Organic Wines: one of Australia’s largest organic wine producers, with vineyards in the Hunter Valley and Orange regions.
· Banlaw: a Gateshead-based company in the City of Lake Macquarie, specialising in fuel and fluid management technology for the mining and industrial sectors.
Supporting more businesses to diversify, increase exports and create local jobs is a key priority in the NSW Trade and Investment Strategy 2035: https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/investment-nsw/resources/nsw-trade-and-investment-strategy, which is delivering a stronger and more coordinated approach to trade promotion and export growth.
 
Last month, the Minns Labor Government announced a renewed suite of export support programs to help NSW businesses enter new markets, build export capability and connect with customers overseas.
 
The renewed support includes refreshed export capability workshops, new Communities of Practice for Exporters and 30 Going Global Export Programs and Trade Missions planned for 2026–27 to help NSW businesses build export skills, connect with buyers and pursue new international opportunities.
 
The ASEAN Market Update series is being successfully rolled out across NSW, including in Western Sydney, the Illawarra, Northern Rivers and Riverina regions. Register for the Newcastle event here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/asean-growth-asean-market-update-for-newcastle-and-hunter-businesses-tickets-1994261249080.
 
For more information on how the NSW Government supports businesses to export, visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/business-and-economy/export-from-nsw
 
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said:
 
“The Hunter has always been a region that makes things, builds things and sells its expertise well beyond its own backyard, and that is exactly the kind of practical capability Southeast Asian markets are looking for.
 
“From advanced manufacturing and clean technology, to food and beverage, innovation and professional services, Hunter businesses have the skills, products and know-how to compete on the international stage.
 
“Bringing this event to Newcastle means local businesses can get the advice and connections they need here in the region, so more Hunter companies can explore new customers, new partnerships and new growth opportunities across Southeast Asia.”
 
Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said:
 
“The Minns Labor Government is focused on growing our economy, creating jobs and helping NSW businesses reach more customers around the world.
 
“Southeast Asia is one of the fastest growing regions in the global economy, and we want businesses in the Hunter and across NSW winning a bigger share of that growth.
 
“We’re backing businesses with practical support, stronger trade engagement and a renewed export program because we know that when local businesses grow, they create jobs and drive investment in our communities.
 
“The ASEAN Market Update in Newcastle will help Hunter businesses build the connections and confidence they need to take the next step into these high-growth markets.”
 
Anditi Managing Director Peter Jamieson said:
 
“Our team has recently worked alongside international partners in Vietnam, using advanced data and AI technologies to help identify high-risk school zones and improve road safety outcomes. Experiences like this demonstrate the appetite across Southeast Asia for Australian expertise and innovation.
 
“Many businesses in the Hunter already have world-class capabilities. The challenge is often understanding where the opportunities are and how to access them. That’s where programs and events like this can make a real difference.
 
“Exporting doesn’t need to be limited to large companies. There are opportunities for businesses of different sizes and sectors, and Southeast Asia is a market that should be firmly on the radar for companies looking to grow.”

Newcastle motorists are set to benefit from a safer, more resilient Old Maitland Road, with work now underway on a major road upgrade.

The Albanese and Minns Labor Governments are investing almost $4 million through the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package, which is jointly funded under the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) , to support the City of Newcastle’s upgrade of Old Maitland Road.

The package supports councils across northern NSW to rebuild transport infrastructure damaged by the February and March 2022 floods while improving resilience to future disasters.

The project will upgrade a 360-metre section of Old Maitland Road between Galleghan Street and Hexham Park. Works include stronger road pavements, improved drainage, resurfacing, paved shoulders and improved access for on-street parking and cyclists, helping the road better withstand future extreme weather.

The upgraded road will address existing drainage issues that cause water to pond along the road edge, reducing damage to the pavement and shoulders. Improved drainage and stronger construction will help minimise future damage during severe weather, reducing maintenance needs and disruption for the community.

Early works are already underway with major construction starting in September 2026. The upgrade is scheduled for completion by the end of the year.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain:

“The Australian Government is committed to helping communities recover from natural disasters while ensuring infrastructure is rebuilt stronger and more resilient for the future.

“This investment in Old Maitland Road at Hexham will not only improve safety for motorists, cyclists and local residents, it will help this important transport link better withstand the impacts of future flooding and severe weather.

“Through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, we are working with the NSW Government and local councils, reducing future disruption and helping communities stay connected when they need it most.”

NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison:

“Many regional communities face flooding as a regular reality, which makes building infrastructure that can withstand future storms critical.

This betterment package means roads and other transport assets may be able to stay open longer during a disaster and open again sooner after the disaster has passed, allowing vital food, medical supplies and other essentials to be moved and hastening recovery for local communities.”

NSW Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin:

We are committed to supporting local councils so they can build back better, smarter, and stronger after severe weather events.

By investing in the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package, we are giving City of Newcastle the support it needs to deliver upgraded infrastructure that will stand up to future floods and keep the community moving.

Old Maitland Road is a vital connection for Newcastle residents and a key emergency detour route for the Pacific Highway. Making this road more resilient means safer daily commutes, less disruption during severe weather, and faster recovery for local families and businesses.”

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon:

“Hexham is one of Newcastle’s most important transport gateways, and Novocastrians know just how disruptive flooding and road damage can be. This investment will make Old Maitland Road safer, more reliable and better able to withstand future severe weather events.

“This project builds on the Albanese Labor Government’s significant investment in Newcastle’s transport network – from the Newcastle Inner City Bypass and the Hexham Straight widening to the M1 to Raymond Terrace extension – ensuring the Hexham corridor remains a safer, more resilient and more reliable route for local families, businesses and freight operators.”

NSW Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp:

Novocastrians know all too well the stress and disruption that severe weather causes along this corridor.

This $4 million investment into Old Maitland Road isn’t just about laying down fresh asphalt – it’s about giving our community a safer, more reliable link that won’t wash out when the next heavy rain hits.

Whether you’re commuting, doing the school run, or relying on this route during an emergency, these upgrades will deliver real peace of mind for local families and drivers.”

City of Newcastle Executive Director City Infrastructure David Witherdin:

The project would improve the resilience of a priority section of Old Maitland Road.

“This stage of work will help make this section of Old Maitland Road more resilient and better able to withstand flood events in the future.

“That means less damage and maintenance being required at a time when our crews are also responding to our wider road network following natural disaster impacts.”

Chair of City of Newcastle’s Infrastructure Strategic Advisory Committee Cr Peta Winney-Baartz:

“Natural disasters place enormous pressure on local communities, which is why it is so important that all levels of government work together to fund infrastructure projects that strengthen resilience and support recovery.

“We welcome the support of the Australian and NSW governments in partnering with City of Newcastle to deliver these vital upgrades.”

A Council-led program that will help cut household power bills in Newcastle, Maitland and Lake Macquarie by more than $760,000 per year has reopened with more incentives to make the switch.

More than 360 people are already on the waiting list for the second round of Solar Neighbourhoods, a program that makes purchasing quality solar and batteries simpler and more affordable.

The program was introduced as a joint initiative of the three neighbouring councils in 2025, generating almost $5 million in community investment in renewable energy through the installation of 158 solar systems and 167 home batteries. 

Liveable Cities Strategic Advisory Committee Chair, Councillor Joel Pringle said Solar Neighbourhoods makes it easy to install renewable energy at a time when households are struggling with cost-of-living pressures.

“Solar Neighbourhoods makes it easier and more affordable for households to slash their energy bills by installing solar and batteries, by addressing cost, complexity and trust,” Cr Pringle said.

“A key priority in our Newcastle Environment Strategy is to support the transition of the Newcastle LGA to net zero emissions by 2040 through an accelerated uptake of solar and batteries.

“Round one of the program showed that you can achieve annual energy savings of almost $3,800 per household, per year. If you missed out then, you can now sign up for Round 2.

“Old solar systems removed for upgrades under the scheme are recycled at City of Newcastle’s Summerhill Waste Management Centre at no cost to households. The projected emission reductions are equivalent to removing 741 cars from the road each year.”

Solar Neighbourhoods was recognised at the NSW Local Government Excellence Awards in June for setting a new standard in environmental leadership.

City of Newcastle’s Executive Manager Environment & Sustainability Marnie Kikken said the 2026 program is designed to reach more people in the community.

“Rooftop solar and batteries allow households and businesses to generate and consume their own renewable electricity, significantly reducing their power bills,” Ms Kikken said.

“Round two of the Solar Neighbourhoods program has been expanded to include small-to-medium businesses and landlords, and we’ve also added extra-large packages for households with higher energy needs.

“We still have a $1,250 program discount per household, which delivered more than $250,000 in direct savings for participants last year, and we’ve updated the products offered to include different types of solar panels and Tesla EV chargers.

“We are also in discussions with the NSW Government about the potential for a new battery rebate pilot program, targeting low-income households, social housing and rental properties.”

Lake Macquarie City Council Manager Community Partnerships Matt Holloway said local government continues to lead the way on sustainability with this collaborative program.

“The success of the inaugural Solar Neighbourhoods program demonstrates that our community is eager to embrace practical, sustainable solutions that reduce household energy costs while lowering emissions,” Mr Holloway said.

“With more than 200 local households signing up in the first year, we’re excited to help even more residents and businesses take advantage of clean energy in round two.”

Maitland City Council Executive Manager City Futures, Gunika Singh said Solar Neighbourhoods was proof councils could show leadership and help shape community involvement in environmental sustainability.

“To us, success looks like a community where our residents and businessowners have the information they need to consider sustainability in their decision making,” Ms Singh said.

Round two of Solar Neighbourhoods is now open and will close on 20 December 2026, providing access to quality solar, batteries and electric vehicle chargers from program partner 1KOMMA5 Australia and their network of local installers.

The NSW Government’s Home Energy Saver Program allows eligible households to access fee-free and interest-free loans of up to $15,000 to purchase products, such as solar, batteries and EV chargers. 

Nine of the 12 Solar Neighbourhoods packages are priced under $15,000.

Participants must sign a contract by 31 October to access 2026 pricing and maximise the available government rebates.

To be part of this year’s Solar Neighbourhoods program head to the website for more information: https://solarneighbourhoods.com.au/

A man has been charged after two people were allegedly threatened by a person armed with a knife at Horseshoe Beach earlier this week.

Officers attached to Newcastle City Police District were called to the scene after reports that two men had been confronted in the car park by an armed man about 5.15pm last Wednesday (12 August 2026).

The men backed off and, a short time later, police arrested a 40-year-old man nearby after checks revealed he was wanted on an outstanding warrant.

A knife was seized at the scene and sent for further examination.

The man, from Bar Beach, was taken to Newcastle Police Station where he was charged with an outstanding warrant for the offences of stalk/intimidate intend fear physical etc harm (DV), custody of knife in public place (subsequent offence), and fail to appear in accordance with bail acknowledgment.

He was refused bail and appeared in Bail Division Local Court 2 yesterday (14 August 2026), where he was again refused bail to appear in Maitland Local Court next Wednesday (19 August 2026).

Following further inquiries, the 40-year-old man has now been charged with armed with intent to commit indictable offence intimidation, and use knife in public place – cause person to fear for their safety, in relation to the incident at Horseshoe Beach.

He remains in custody and is due to appear in Newcastle Local Court next Thursday (20 August 2026).

The new-look Hamilton Station Park will host the popular Hawker Street Markets for the first time this September following the completion of a $290,000 upgrade by City of Newcastle.

Visitors were welcomed back to the park today following a range of improvements including new accessible seating, landscaping work, a weather-proof purpose-built donation cupboard and a community notice board.

Councillors Paige Johnson and Joel Pringle join Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp, BIA Chair Kasey Pollard and local Indigenous artist, Koan Cashman in the new-look Hamilton Station Park.The project, which was shaped by community feedback and developed in collaboration with NSW Police, was supported by an $80,000 NSW Government Community Building Partnership grant.

Ward Two Councillors said they’re excited to see the park become a more welcoming space.

“This project was designed to improve the park’s functionality, accessibility and safety,” Cr Jenny Barrie said.

“The key elements will enable the park to be activated more often. We’ve improved the electrical supply to allow for the installation of a security light and colour-changeable ambient lighting on the bollards in the garden.

“Upgrades to water connections have provided the community with a drinking bubbler, tap and a dog bowl.”

Councillor Paige Johnson said accessibility improvements were also a key factor in the project that will support the use of the space for the whole community.

“These works have delivered the installation of a new kerb ramp, upgrades to pathways, as well as accessible modular seating with handrails,” Cr Johnson said.

“The landscaping has opened up the park area, while a surface garden beneath the iconic Moreton Bay fig will protect the tree’s root system. An accessible all-weather gravel pathway around the fig and through the park has improved access for pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchair users and prams.

“The gravel features a permeable surface made from 100% recycled material, which allows water to drain through quickly. The same material was used for the hard stand area, which provides a solid surface suitable for food trucks at community events.”

Councillor Joel Pringle said visitors to the park will also be greeted by new visual elements.

“The Welcome to Place sign will invite people to learn about the historical and ongoing relationship our Traditional Custodians have with this space and its surrounds,” Cr Pringle said.

“First Nations people gathered here for thousands of years and we want the park to continue to be a place for all people to enjoy. The sign incorporates artwork specifically created for this space by local Indigenous artist, Koan Cashman.

“On the other side of the sign will be a community notice board, with information about community support services and local activities promoted by the Hamilton Business Improvement Association.

“The new weather-proof, purpose-built donation cupboard has been positioned in a well-lit, visible location at the front of the park to improve safety for those in need and people who donate.”

Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said Hamilton is a wonderful and vibrant community, and now it has a park that reflects that.

“When passengers come off the train they walk straight into Hamilton Station Park, so it is important the park is open and welcoming for residents and visitors alike,” Mr Crakanthorp said.

“The goal behind this project was to make Hamilton a safer and more welcoming place for all and I am so excited to see this revamped park be transformed into a Hawker Market next month.”

Hamilton’s Business Improvement Association (BIA) Chair Kasey Pollard said the BIA is extremely happy to see Hamilton Station Park renewed.

“This space acts as a gateway to Beaumont Street for many people travelling to the area by train,” Ms Pollard said.

“The upgrade provides a much better first impression to the Hamilton business precinct and we expect the surrounding businesses to find this beneficial for trade with improved visitation.

“The BIA is also looking forward to hosting the Hawker Markets in the park on September 12. This larger park footprint should improve the event experience for everyone involved.”

The Hawker Markets will see the park lit up with neon signs promoting a range of street food, outdoor dining and sweet treats, with plenty of family friendly fun on offer including face painting, live music and roving entertainment.

After years of campaigning for a permanent solution for dredging Swansea Channel, a new purpose-built dredge has arrived on Lake Macquarie and is preparing to get to work.

The Turkulliko is undergoing its final water trials ahead of its first major mission: removing around 83,000 cubic metres of sand from two of the channel’s most persistent problem areas.

It marks a major milestone in the delivery of a long-term strategy to maintain safe and reliable access to Lake Macquarie.

The critical fix is the result of a $10 million investment by the Federal Government through its Priority Community Infrastructure Program, which also includes upgrades to the Blacksmiths boat ramp.

The Minns Labor Government has contributed an additional $6 million to support the operation of the new system for the next five years, managed through Transport for NSW Maritime, establishing an ongoing dredging capability for Swansea Channel.

The purpose-built dredger has the ability to remove more than 1,000 cubic metres of sand a day, with material pumped by pipeline to Nine Mile Beach, south of Belmont Golf Club.

Its first major campaign will focus on the Dog Leg and Drop Over, establishing a navigational channel approximately 60 metres wide and three metres deep.

The dredge has been given the Awabakal name Turkulliko, meaning “to drag along” or “to draw”.

Commissioning is expected to be completed by the end of August, with dredging planned to begin afterwards in September.

Minister for the Hunter and Member for Swansea, Yasmin Catley said:

“This is a huge win for boaties and the Lake Macquarie community.

“We have fought for years for a permanent solution to Swansea Channel. Now the dredge is here, it’s on the water and it’s about to get to work.

“Swansea Channel is the gateway between our lake and the ocean. Keeping it open and safe matters to boaties, local businesses and our entire visitor economy.

“We’ve had dredging campaigns before. What we haven’t had is a dedicated, long-term solution to keep on top of the problem. That’s what changes today.

“This community campaigned hard for this. I was proud to stand with locals at Swansea Yacht Club and fight for it, and I’m even prouder to see it being delivered.”

Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison said:

“After years of advocacy, seeing a dredge on Lake Macquarie marks the start of a long-term approach to keeping Swansea Channel open and accessible.

“Having a dedicated dredge gives Transport for NSW the ability to manage sand build-up over the long term, rather than simply responding when navigation becomes difficult.

“For the thousands of boats using Swansea Channel each year, this is about creating a safer, deeper and more dependable passage into and out of Lake Macquarie.”

Visitors will have the chance to try their hand at the global combat robotics craze when the Hunter Science Festival returns to Newcastle Museum this month for National Science Week. 

The free, family-friendly festival will take over the Museum and surrounding grounds on Sunday 23 August, bringing together scientists, educators and innovators for a full day of interactive discovery across 40 stalls. 

The Pretty Amazing Jono will add a touch of magic to the Hunter Science Festival celebrations on the outdoor stage in Museum Park.

City of Newcastle’s Director of Museum, Archive, Libraries and Learning, Julie Baird, said the festival continues to grow as a highlight of the region’s National Science Week celebrations. 

“Hunter Science Festival is all about making science accessible, engaging and fun for our community,” Ms Baird said. 

“From hands-on experiments to live stage shows and the chance to meet real scientists, this event is designed to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of innovators.

“Now in its fifth year, the festival has grown significantly, attracting 7,000 visitors in 2025. We’re excited to expand the program even further in 2026 with more exhibitors, more activities and a new outdoor stage.” 

The festival is supported by a $20,000 National Science Week grant from the Australian Government.

The Bubble Laboratory will amaze and delight audiences in their debut appearance at the Hunter Science Festival.

This year’s program will feature a full day of professional science entertainment on the new stage, where visitors can bring a picnic and relax on the lawn while enjoying science magic from The Pretty Amazing Jono, explosive demonstrations from Fizzics Education and bubble theatre from The Bubble Laboratory. 

Festivalgoers can also try their hand at combat robotics, using remote controlled, palm-sized 3D-printed battle robots in a purpose-built perspex arena. 

Lake Macquarie City Council Fab Lab Lead Claire Chaikin-Bryan said the festival is an exciting opportunity to introduce the community to the world of robotics. 

“We love being part of Hunter Science Festival because it sparks conversations with kids and families about creativity and what they can make themselves,” Ms Chaikin-Bryan said. 

“This year, we’re excited to bring Hunter Combat Robotics to the festival for the first time. Visitors will be able to see combat robots up close, take a turn at driving them and discover how design, electronics and engineering come together through hands-on making.” 

Visitors can also meet a robot dog from Fizzics Education and a humanoid robot from the University of Newcastle’s NUbots team. 

Beyond robotics, the festival offers a wide range of interactive experiences, including building and racing solar-powered mini electric vehicles, holding a real shark egg, using a radio telescope and exploring rocks, fossils and dinosaur displays. 

The popular HMRI Poo Palace will also return, offering a unique walk-through journey of the digestive system, while visitors can also enjoy a range of science-themed treats including cupcakes from award-winning local baker KT Bakes Cakes.

City of Newcastle teams will be on-site throughout the festival, with activities including climbing aboard a garbage truck, collecting native seeds to take home and learning about sustainability, climate change and local wildlife. 

The festival was developed in collaboration with the Hunter Innovation and Science Hub (HISH) and showcases a range of organisations such as the Newcastle Astronomical Society, Australian Native Bee Association and the University of Newcastle’s SMART Program. 

HISH President Peter Melling said its free bushcraft boat building activity, one of 10 HISH exhibits at this year’s festival, offered a hands-on learning experience.

“Thanks to a community grant from Port Authority of NSW, we are able to offer local kids the opportunity to explore the science behind boat building,” Mr Melling said.

“Using locally sourced, 100% biodegradable materials, participants can design, build and test their own model boats – not only gaining an understanding of engineering and the mechanics of buoyancy, but also learning about the important role our waterways play in the Newcastle community.”

Newcastle Museum will host a range of other events to celebrate National Science Week, which runs from 15 to 23 August 2026.

Explore the fascinating hidden world of glow-in-the-dark fungi on Monday 17 August with Glenrock Ghost Fungus Tours founder and award-winning physics researcher Karen Livesey, or listen to Dr Karelle Siellez explain how the cosmos communicates its most violent events as part of the national Marie Curie Lecture Tour on 21 August.

For more information about the Hunter Science Festival and other Science Week events visit newcastlemuseum.com.au/exhibitions-events/events

More than 1,000 Hunter jobs are secure, after the Albanese and the Minns Labor Governments have jointly contributed $2.5 billion to secure the future of aluminium smelting in the region.

The joint investment will deliver a long-term renewable energy solution for the Tomago Aluminium smelter that supports commercially sustainable operations beyond 2028 and accelerates decarbonisation of more than 10 per cent of NSW’s electricity grid, supporting and securing the future of one of the state’s most important industrial assets.

Tomago Aluminium has agreed to invest at least $1.1 billion in the facility as part of the deal. This includes $100 million to drive further decarbonisation activities at the smelter and undertake an innovative demand-response program to support the NSW grid. This demand-response program aims to position the Tomago smelter as the international leader in electricity demand response and flexibility services.

As part of the agreement, the NSW Government’s contribution is capped at $1.225 billion over 10 years from 2029, supporting the long-term future of Tomago and thousands of Hunter jobs.

As a result, Tomago Aluminium will continue operating beyond the expiry of its current electricity supply contract on 31 December 2028, providing certainty for workers, local businesses and the future of the Hunter region.

Tomago Aluminium is Australia’s largest single electricity user. Securing a long-term renewable energy pathway for the smelter is critical to preserving nationally significant industrial capability and strengthens Australia’s ability to supply the growing global market for low-emissions aluminium.

The joint investment will underpin nearly 3 gigawatts of new renewable generation and firming capacity, strengthening the state’s electricity system and supporting long-term energy affordability and reliability for New South Wales.

Australia is one of only a handful of countries with an end-to-end aluminium supply chain, spanning bauxite mining, alumina refining, aluminium smelting through to advanced manufacturing.

As a major value-added export, aluminium supports jobs, investment and industrial capability while playing a critical role in clean energy technologies, advanced manufacturing and national infrastructure.

The arrangements also ensure revenue comes back to the federal government when aluminium prices are high. This means all Australians will benefit from maintaining domestic aluminium capability and sovereignty, with the added benefit of a monetary return on investment from our governments’ contributions should aluminium prices rise.

This joint investment from the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments will secure 1,000 direct jobs at Tomago aluminium and 5,000 indirect jobs across the Hunter region, supporting a stronger and more resilient industrial future for New South Wales and Australia.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

“In December last year I stood in the rain at Tomago and told the workers ‘we have your back’.

“Today, alongside the NSW Government, we deliver on that promise.

“This site isn’t just important for Newcastle and the Hunter, it’s a critical asset for the country and our manufacturing future.

“I’m proud of the work we’ve done with the company, with the Minns Labor Government, with local members and with the workers here on site to secure Tomago’s future beyond 2028.”

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns

“This is a good day for the Hunter. This agreement secures more than 1,000 jobs at Tomago and thousands more that rely on the smelter, and gives the region certainty about its future.

“I want to thank the Prime Minister and the Commonwealth Government. We’ve worked closely together to get to this point and deliver an agreement that to find a way through and secure the future of Tomago.

“The Hunter has powered NSW and helped build this country for generations. This agreement is about making sure it remains an industrial and manufacturing powerhouse for generations to come.

“This is part of our bigger plan for the Hunter, securing the good jobs and industries that are here today, while investing $12 billion to bring train manufacturing back to the Hunter and create good, secure jobs for decades to come.”

Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres

“Australia’s end to end aluminium industry – from bauxite to complex aluminium finished products – is critical for Australia’s national resilience. Tomago is Australia’s largest and youngest smelter and is crucial to Australia’s industrial future.

”Keeping this capability here in Australia matters. It makes our economy stronger, drives new electricity projects and maintains thousands of good quality blue collar and engineering jobs right here in the Hunter.

“The Albanese Government is delivering a Future Made in the Hunter: good regional jobs, more industrial and energy investment and stronger regional economies.”

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen

“Tomago Aluminium has made it clear: to remain competitive and secure its future the smelter needs a reliable and affordable supply of renewable energy, with ageing coal-fired power options being prohibitively expensive.

“We’re fighting for the regions and bringing more renewables online faster – so we can deliver the modern and affordable energy grid Australian’s deserve and industry needs.”

NSW Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe

“This investment secures more than 1,000 local jobs and connects key manufacturing to a long-term pathway to run on renewable energy.

“It shows we can protect the industries and workers that power the Hunter while building a cleaner energy future in NSW.”

NSW Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley

“Hunter workers and their families deserve certainty, and we have delivered it.

“Securing Tomago means securing jobs, skills and the future of our region.

“We said these jobs are worth fighting for and today that fight has delivered.

“The Hunter builds things and it powers our state. We have the skills, the workers and the industrial muscle, and I am incredibly proud to be part of a government that is willing to back the Hunter and everything we have to offer.”

Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson

“Hunter workers have helped make Tomago Aluminium one of Australia’s most important manufacturing assets, and today’s announcement provides certainty for the people, families and businesses who depend on it. 

“As demand for aluminium continues to grow worldwide, with forecasts suggesting we’ll need around 40 percent more of it in the future, it is critical that Australia remains a producer and manufacturer of this essential material.

“We’re protecting local jobs, supporting local industry and ensuring the Hunter remains a manufacturing powerhouse for decades to come.”

Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington

“This is a massive investment in local families and our local economy. Tomago Aluminium is one of the largest employers in Port Stephens, and securing its future has been an absolute priority for me and the Minns Labor Government.”

A man will face court today after being charged following an investigation into multiple alleged break and enters in the state’s north earlier this year.

Officers attached to Tuggerah Lakes Police District and Lake Macquarie Police District commenced investigations into reports of multiple break and enters in the Central Coast and Lake Macquarie regions between May 2026 and June 2026.

Police were told eight locations in Tuggerah, Charmhaven, Ourimbah and Cooranbong were broken into with items including firearms, ammunition, cars, cash and collectable trading cards allegedly stolen.

Following extensive inquiries, about 7.40am yesterday (Wednesday 12 August 2026), officers executed a search warrant at a property on South Tacoma Road, Tacoma South.

During the search, police located and seized a number of items believed to have been used in the alleged incidents, including a rifle scope and slingshot.

Small amounts of methylamphetamine and buprenorphine were also located and seized for forensic examination.

Following the search, a 32-year-old man was arrested at the property and taken to Wyong Police Station where he was charged with:
Break and enter house steal value less than or equal to $60,000 (five counts)
Aggravated break and enter dwelling in company steal less than or equal to $60,000
Receive property theft serious indictable offence less than or equal to $5,000
Take and drive conveyance without consent of owner
Participate criminal group contribute criminal activity
Possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit
Possess unauthorised firearm
Possess prohibited drug (two counts)

Police will allege in court the man had also hidden a firearm in bushland near Mardi, which had been stolen from a Cooranbong property in June 2026.

He was refused bail to appear before Bail Division Local Court 6 today (Thursday 13 August 2026).

Seekers of the supernatural are being given a rare chance to go behind the scenes at the Civic Theatre in September and call out the spirits that supposedly haunt the historic venue.

Three Paranormal Investigation Nights will be held for the first time in the theatre’s history, using special equipment to record and measure unexplained activity in areas rarely accessed by the public.

Civic Theatre Executive Manager Leonie Wallace, Lord Mayor Gavin Morris and Cr Jenny Barrie go behind the scenes and use some of the special equipment that will be part of the Paranormal Investigation Nights, accompanied by Renata Daniel and Anne Rzechowicz from Newcastle Ghost Tours. Executive Manager Leonie Wallace said the tours will let visitors see the Civic Theatre in a whole new light.

“The Civic Theatre is almost 100 years old and has long been surrounded by rumour and speculation regarding the spirits of former staff and patrons,” Ms Wallace said.

“Probably the most famous is our supposedly friendly ghost, nicknamed Joe, who has been said to brush past staff every now and again. As the story goes, he warned a former Deputy Lord Mayor about the 1989 earthquake on the main stage.

“We’re thrilled to be working with well-known local operators Newcastle Ghost Tours to provide this unique experience and are curious to see who or what people discover along the way.”

Tickets for the Paranormal Investigation Nights will go on sale tomorrow, with sessions on 28,29 and 30 September.

Each experience will run for two-and-a-half hours, kicking off with a short historical introduction by a Civic Theatre guide before being led by Newcastle Ghost Tours.

CEO of the award-winning local business, Renata Daniel, said the Civic Theatre is one of the Hunter’s most requested locations for paranormal nights.

“The history of the Civic Theatre and the range of stories about ghost sightings make it a premium location for these types of tours,” Ms Daniel said.

“The entire experience is fully escorted and gives the guests the chance to become paranormal investigators. During the tour you call out to the spirits said to inhabit the theatre to see who responds.

“We’ll use equipment such as a spirit box, which is an electronic sweep-frequency radio to attempt real-time communication with ghosts, as well as a trip wire, an electronic sensor device used to detect invisible energy changes or movement.

“These tours will be suitable for first timers, the curious and the experienced seekers of the supernatural.”

The theatre is also expanding its popular series of Behind the Curtain backstage tours after the first two sessions launched earlier this year were fully booked within hours of going on sale.

Seven additional tours on 28, 29 and 30 September will go on sale tomorrow including one wheelchair accessible session.

The idea for the Behind the Curtain tours was developed by the Civic Theatre as part of City of Newcastle’s Product Mentoring Development Program, which helps to develop and promote new tourism products to attract more visitors from outside the region.

Lord Mayor Gavin Morris said both tours will provide visitors with new opportunities to experience the Civic Theatre beyond attending a performance.

“This is your chance to see the theatre from a different perspective,” Cr Morris said.

“We know artists love performing at the Civic Theatre and now you can see what they see behind the curtain.

“The tours will explore areas within the Theatre not usually accessible to the community including behind the stage and in the dressing rooms, giving participants a sneak peek behind the scenes while learning more about the iconic building’s history.”

Community and Culture Strategic Advisory Committee Chair, Cr Jenny Barrie said these tours are the perfect way to celebrate one of Newcastle’s most iconic buildings.

“Newcastle is a city of storytellers and those stories come to life at the Civic Theatre,” Cr Barrie said.

“Giving people more reasons to visit not only connects them with Newcastle’s arts scene but also contributes to our broader cultural economy.”

For more information visit the Civic Theatre website or visit the Ticket Office.