Category: NSW News

The Minns Labor Government has lost the plot. The RTBU is running the show, the train network is in freefall, and commuters are being treated like collateral damage.
 
Premier – pick up the phone, call your ally Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and admit what everyone in NSW already knows—you haven’t got a clue how to fix the mess you created by your unaffordable promises to union bosses before the election. Ask him to send in Murray Watt, the federal Workplace Relations Minister, and see if he has the spine to pull the handbrake on this rolling disaster.
 
Because this is no longer just a state issue—this is a full-blown Labor catastrophe, and the federal government has the power to stop it by invoking section 431 of the Fair Work Act. But what do we hear from Anthony Albanese and Murray Watt? Silence.
 
They could fix this today, but they won’t. Because Labor is Labor. Whether it’s in Sydney or Canberra, the unions pull the strings, and Chris Minns, Anthony Albanese and Murray Watt are all too weak to cut them.
 
Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said Chris Minns has lost control, and he knows it.
 
“Chris Minns has two choices—call in Murray Watt or keep pretending he’s in charge while Sydney grinds to a halt,” Mr Speakman said.
 
And what about Murray Watt? He’s ghosting New South Wales.
 
The only time we see Murray Watt act is when it suits Canberra’s politics, but when it comes to protecting NSW’s economy, he’s nowhere to be found. He and Anthony Albanese have left Chris Minns to flounder like a deer in the headlights—too scared to fix the problem, too scared to be attached to it.
 
Shadow Minister for Transport and Roads Natalie Ward said Chris Minns has one job—keep NSW moving and he’s failed.
 
“If he won’t stand up to the RTBU, then let’s see if his ally Anthony Albanese has any backbone. Because right now, NSW has no Premier—just a union sheep in a suit,” Ms Ward said.
 
Shadow Minister for Industrial Relations and Transport Damien Tudehope said Chris Minns isn’t running NSW—the RTBU is.
 
“He’s too scared to stand up to them, too scared to ask Canberra for help, and too scared to admit he’s failed. If he had any guts, he’d be on the phone to Anthony Albanese.”
 
What’s it going to be, Premier?
 
Are you going to keep fumbling through this crisis like a bad episode of “Yes, Minister,” or are you going to call your ally and ask for help?
 
NSW deserves better than this circus.

The Minns Labor Government has changed the law to make it easier to convict prison staff who have sexual relationships with inmates.

Under the change, all sexual relationships between prison staff and inmates will be illegal, with staff facing criminal liability, including a potential prison sentence.

The Crimes (Administration of Sentences) Act 1999 passed the NSW Parliament last nightand removes a requirement to prove that a sexual relationship between a member of staff and an inmate poses a risk to the safety and security of the prison.

The strengthening of the misconduct offence was recommended by the Special Commission of Inquiry into Offending by Former Officer Wayne Astill at Dillwynia Correctional Centre.

The inquiry found multiple failings in the management and culture at Dillwynia Correctional Centre and across the Corrective Services NSW system.

The Minns Labor Government accepted all 31 recommendations of the Inquiry, in full or in principle, as a commitment to lifting standards and restoring confidence in our prisons and improving safety for both staff and inmates.

The change is one of a number of amendments introduced in the Crimes (Administration of Sentences) Amendment Bill 2024 to strengthen processes, enhance transparency, and improve Corrective Services NSW’s operations.

The Government is rebuilding trust in the NSW corrective services system through:

• Installing hundreds of new CCTV cameras and a network-wide capacity to store and access footage for at least 90 days so that serious matters can be reviewed.
• Establishing a new Sexual Misconduct Reporting Line and new advocacy service to ensure inmates can voice concerns.
• All uniformed staff at Dillwynia Correctional Centre who work with inmates now have body-worn cameras.
• Mandatory training for all new Corrective Services staff working in female correctional centres.
• Corrective Services NSW has been elevated to a stand-alone agency directly accountable to the Minister and the Government.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong:

“Corrective Services staff engaging in sexual conduct with inmates is utterly unacceptable and a total abuse of authority, which is why it is now a crime in any circumstance.

“Such behaviour indicates a deplorable abuse of the staff’s position and a breach of their duty of care to the inmate.

“While the majority of our Corrective Services staff do the right thing, for those that don’t, the days of receiving a slap on the wrist are over.

“We have provided $30 million for priority reforms so far in response to the Astill Inquiry, including setting up a sexual misconduct line to provide a free and confidential avenue for inmates to report illegal behaviour.

“We’ve also increased the number of CCTV cameras in our prisons and boosted our capacity to store and access footage for at least 90 days, to enable serious matters to be reviewed more effectively.” 

Legislation improving the way strata communities operate passed the NSW Parliament last night.

The reforms will help owners repair and maintain common property, support the uptake of sustainability and accessibility infrastructure, and give owners more options to pay levies when facing financial stress. 

This legislation is the Minns Labor Government’s third tranche of strata law reforms and builds on changes which came into effect on 3 February 2025, requiring strata managers in NSW to provide significantly more The reforms will help owners repair and maintain common property, support the uptake of sustainability and accessibility infrastructure, and give owners more options to pay levies when facing financial stress.

The laws will:

• Protect owners corporations from unfair contract terms such as limits on a strata managing agent’s liability.
• Encourage the uptake of sustainable infrastructure such as solar panels and electric vehicle charging by prohibiting bylaws that block the infrastructure due to external appearance.
• Protect owners from bill shock by requiring developers to have initial levy estimates to be independently certified, including increased penalties for non-compliance.
• Make it easier to terminate strata managing agents and building manager agreements if they carry on a business that is contrary to the law.
• Prescribe training requirements for strata committee members to help them perform their roles.
• Allow Fair Trading to enter into enforceable undertakings with owners corporations that do not meet their duties to maintain and repair common property.
• Help owners in financial hardship by requiring owners corporations to offer a payment plan before taking debt recovery action and prohibiting blanket rules to refuse payment plans.
• Make it easier to install accessibility infrastructure in common areas by lowering the voting threshold for approval from 75% to a majority vote.

This legislation is the Minns Labor Government’s third tranche of strata law reforms and builds on   changes which came into effect on 3 February 2025, requiring strata managers in NSW to provide significantly more detailed information to owners’ corporations about their services and relationships, to increase transparency and accountability within the strata sector.

Strata managers must now disclose any connections with suppliers and developers, provide detailed breakdowns of insurance quotes including commissions and broker fees, and report in real time if any new connections or interests arise.

The NSW Government’s reforms will be enforced by a dedicated Strata and Property Services Taskforce within NSW Fair Trading, backed by an $8.4 million investment. 

Consumer confidence in strata is vital to the government’s housing agenda, and the Taskforce will be focussed on high impact initiatives to support the 1.2 million people living in strata across NSW.

The Taskforce will strengthen compliance and enforcement, dispute resolution, and regulatory reform within the strata sector, with a focus on raising professional standards and delivering better outcomes for consumers.

For more information, visit the NSW Fair Trading website here: https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-property/strata-and-community-living

Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong:

“The family home is often the biggest financial investment most of us will make – when it is in a strata community the Minns Labor Government is making sure that there are protections in place to help owners make informed decisions on the future of the property.

“Repairs to common property are the obligation of the owners’ corporation, and these reforms help to ensure the hard-earned money of individual owners invested in the property will prevent it from being run down, become a safety risk or cause greater damage through neglect.

“These changes will make buying into strata more transparent and improve the building owners experience when they receive the keys from the developer.”

Fair Trading Commissioner Natasha Mann:

“The number of strata schemes in New South Wales has grown from around 70,000 at the end of 2015 to more than 87,000 – creating a greater need for targeted, proactive regulation to ensure practitioners and businesses in the property industry are properly trained and supervised.

“The Strata and Property Services Taskforce is improving the NSW Government’s oversight of real estate and strata managing agents by bringing together new and existing specialist staff across Fair Trading to uplift its enforcement of NSW strata and property laws – restoring consumer confidence and lifting standards across the sector.” 

A significant heritage building in the historic Lock Up complex in the heart of Newcastle has been given a face-lift thanks to a $70,000 grant from the NSW Government.

Number 88, located on Hunter Street, is one of the oldest buildings in the city. The historic, stone and painted masonry structure was first constructed in 1861 and served as a telegraph office, gaining a second storey in 1879.

New flooring was installed, replacing damaged carpet. As workers removed carpet tiles they discovered the original cedar staircase remained intact. The staircase was sanded, resealed and now takes pride of place as a central, period feature in the building. 

Unoccupied since 2018 due to building deterioration and the COVID, the repairs have assisted the Newcastle Historic Reserve Land Manager to secure a new long-term tenant, which will help the reserve to fund maintenance and improvements in the future.

Buildings 74, 88 and 90 Hunter Street form a suite of three historic stone and painted masonry buildings. Building 74 was constructed in 1873 and was Newcastle’s original post office. Number 90 was a police station built in 1861 and closed in 1982.

Building number 90 is known locally as ‘The Lock-Up’ and was originally built to support the Newcastle police station and was used from 1861 until its closure in 1982. The building has been re-imagined as an award-winning contemporary art space that showcases local, national and international artists. An artist in residency program invites artists to respond to the building’s history.  The Lock-Up’s padded cell is acknowledged as one of the best preserved in Australia.

Crown Lands in the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure funded the upgrade work through its Crown Reserves Improvement Fund (CRIF).

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:  

“The NSW Government is focused on building better communities, which is why we are committed to helping maintain these three beautiful heritage buildings in the heart of Newcastle’s CBD.

“Our statewide investments in Crown reserves help ensure they can continue to serve their communities for many years to come.”

Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said:

“This is fantastic news. These buildings have become an integral hub for our local artists and are an iconic piece of Newcastle’s history dating all the way back to the 19th century.

“It is vital we continue to care for these buildings, which reflect important parts of our history here in Newcastle. I am very pleased Crown Lands has continued to fund this important maintenance work that will ensure our heritage buildings remain intact for future generations.”

Newcastle Historic Reserve Land Manager Chairperson Gillean Shaw said: 

“We are grateful to Crown Lands for their continued support in helping to protect these three historic buildings. This particular round of funding has helped upgrade number 88, keeping it consistent with its grand, mid 19th century character. 

“Number 88 had been without a commercial tenant since 2018, due to the building’s deterioration over recent years. As a direct result of these upgrades, NHRLM have attracted a long-term tenant, which will bring in a new revenue stream, allowing the land manager to continue to fund important maintenance to preserve these significant buildings for future generations.”

The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its election commitment to tackle pest and weed infestations between neighbouring public and private lands across the state through its $10 million investment in new or expanded, on the ground, biosecurity projects.

The Good Neighbours Program, led by Local Land Services, will undertake 21 initial projects in priority areas across NSW.

The initiative is part of the Government’s $945 million commitment to addressing biosecurity threats to the state’s $20 billion primary industries sector.

The Good Neighbours projects will target pest animals and problem weeds, including feral deer, feral pigs, tropical soda apple and hudson pear.

Improved on-ground outcomes will be achieved through coordinated pest animal and weed control programs, as well as capacity-building workshops, training and education for landholders and land managers.

The 21 projects will be delivered in partnership with respective public land managers including Forestry Corporation, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and local councils.

The Good Neighbours Program highlights the importance of public and private land managers working together to prevent the spread of pests and weeds and protect the NSW economy, environment and community.

Pest animals and weeds impact more than 70 per cent of the state’s threatened species and endangered ecological communities, posing a significant agricultural threat.

The Good Neighbours Program brings together a range of stakeholders and agencies to combat the issue and educate landholders and land managers about their shared general biosecurity duty under the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015 to control pests and weeds on their properties.

The program will run until mid-2026, with additional projects to be funded. Visit nsw.gov.au/good-neighbours to learn more.

Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty said:

“Effective pest and weed management are critical to supporting agricultural productivity and biodiversity in NSW, and it’s best achieved by working as a united front.”

“The Good Neighbours program demonstrates the NSW Government’s commitment to protecting our natural environment and agricultural industry by focusing our resources on areas where we can work together to achieve the best results.

“As the saying goes, everybody needs good neighbours. Biosecurity is a shared responsibility, and we all have a part to play.”

Local Land Services Project Manager Good Neighbours Program, Dale Kirby said:

“When it comes to coordinated pest animal and weed control programs, many hands make light work.”

“We can achieve far better outcomes when private and public landholders work together, with expert advice and support from Local Land Services, to reduce impacts and limit the spread of pests and weeds across the landscape.”

MEDIA: Michael Salmon | Minister Moriarty | 0417495018

Good Neighbours projects

• Cane Toad Program (North Coast) – Joint efforts between the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Local Land Services, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Forestry Corporation of NSW, Landcare and private landholders to control cane toads on the North Coast.
• Chinese Violet Program (North Coast) – This program is based in the Tweed Shire, where Rous County Council is targeting Chinese violet on the fringes of the Heritage Wollumbin National Park and Jerusalem National Park.
• Job’s Tears Eradication Program (North Coast) – Led by Rous County Council, Landcare and landholders, this program aims to eradicate Job’s tears from creek lines in the Kyogle and Lismore shires.
• Tropical Soda Apple Eradication (TSA) Program (North Coast) – This program targets Tropical soda apple across the Lismore, Kyogle, Ballina, Byron, Richmond Valley and Tweed local government areas, led by Rous County Council, community groups and landholders.
• Far South Coast Coastal Weeds Program (South East) – Tackling weeds such as coastal bitou bush and sea spurge on the Far South Coast between Tuross and Wonboyn, led by Far South Coast Landcare, local councils, Local Land Services and the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
• Hudson Pear Control Program – Kinchega National Park (Western) – Combating Hudson Pear in the middle reaches of Stephens Creek to the west of Kinchega National Park, led by the managers of Kars and Eureka stations, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Castlereagh Macquarie County Council and Local Land Services.
• Jumping Cholla Control Program (Western) – Targeting Jumping cholla in the Living Desert State Park and nearby Limestone and Nine Mile stations in the Broken Hill area, with the help of the station owners, Broken Hill City Council, Castlereagh Macquarie County Council and Local Land Services.
• Parthenium Weed Eradication (North West)  Management and control of Parthenium weed across two Travelling Stock Reserves (TSR) at Croppa Creek, led by North West Local Land Services and supported by local councils, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, TSR users, landholders and Traditional Owners.
• Mt Stuart Boxing Glove Control Program (Western) – Tackling the spread of Boxing glove cactus in Tibooburra, south of the Sturt National Park, in partnership with the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Mt Stuart Station neighbours, Castlereagh Macquarie County Council, Crown Lands and Local Land Services.
• North Coast Branch Pig Control Program (North Coast and Northern Tablelands) – Feral pig control led by the North Coast branch of the National Parks and Wildlife Service across 12 reserves from western Richmond River to the coast, from Ballina in the north to Hat Head in the south.
• Orange Hawkweed Eradication Program (South East) – A collaboration between Snowy Monaro Council, Snowy Valleys Council, Local Land Services, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and private landholders targeting Hawkweed in the Kosciuszko National Park and surrounding private land.
• Strategic Weed Management and Control – Blackberry and St John’s Wort (Central West) – Coordinated control of priority weeds within Goobang National Park, led by Parkes Shire Council, Macquarie and Lachlan Valley Weeds Committee, Central West and Central Tablelands regional weeds committees and neighbouring landholders.
• Wild Horse Cross Tenure Eradication Program (North Coast) – Wild horse control focused on the Barcoongere area, south of Grafton, in conjunction with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, National Parks and Wildlife Service and landholders.
• Bathurst Joint Weed Program (Central Tablelands) – Working with the Forestry Corporation of NSW and private landholders to control weeds such as broom, gorse and Chilean needle grass between state forest and private land in Bathurst.
• Bathurst Pest Program – Feral Pig Management Program (Central Tablelands) – Support for a feral pig baiting program involving the Forestry Corporation of NSW, Crown Lands and neighbouring land managers.
• Feral deer control – Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area (Central Tablelands, Hunter, Greater Sydney and South East) – Coordinated efforts between the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Local Land Services, the Invasive Species Council, Crown Lands and public land managers to reduce the impacts of feral deer.
• Forestry Pest Management Neighbour’s Program (Western, Central West, Central Tablelands, North West, Riverina and Murray) – Targeting feral pig populations on properties with state forest boundaries in the Western NSW region, led by the Forestry Corporation of NSW and state forest neighbours.
• Koala Habitat Restoration (North Coast) – Protecting and restoring koala habitat in the Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie areas in conjunction with private landholders, Local Aboriginal Land Councils, Landcare groups, National Parks and Wildlife Service, and the Australian Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
• North Coast Feral Deer Management Program (North Coast) – An existing feral deer coordinated control program based in the Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie areas involving local councils, Forestry Corporation of NSW, National Parks and Wildlife Service and private landholders.
• Red Cestrum Management and Control (North Coast) – This program is focused on controlling Red cestrum infestations on the Dorrigo Plateau, led by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Forestry Corporation of NSW, Bellingen Shire Council and private landholders.
• Tamworth Peri Urban Pest Species Project (North West) – Targeting feral goats, pigs and deer within the Tamworth Local Government Area, supported by Tamworth Regional Council, Crown Lands and private landholders.

The Minns Labor Government has launched the latest round of the NSW Social Cohesion Grants for Local Government designed to enhance councils’ ability to prevent and respond to hate.

The program strengthens local government capability to foster connection and belonging within and between communities, as well as build trust in local institutions.

Applications for the latest round of grants are now open, with local councils across NSW to share in $500,000 for projects that strengthen social cohesion and deliver stronger and more resilient communities.

Councils may apply for between $50,000 and $150,000 to address a social cohesion challenge in their community, with the current round focused on preventing and responding to the prevalence of hate.

Projects should aim to address the impacts of hate, polarisation and the localised impacts from global crises and events that councils are experiencing.

In previous rounds, the NSW Social Cohesion Grants for Local Government program has funded projects to build community cohesion in high density residential neighbourhoods, support community centre activations in areas impacted by bushfire, and intercultural community leadership programs.

Applications are open until 11:59pm on Friday 28 March and can be made on the grant webpage.

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said:

“The impact of recent hateful events has been felt across the state.

“Local governments are at the heart of their communities, and these grants will help councils create meaningful initiatives that foster inclusion and support communities to feel connected.

“Our strength lies in our unity, our respect for one another and our shared commitment to making NSW a safe and welcoming place for all.”

Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said:

“This funding will assist with projects to help build community cohesion.

“By supporting Social Cohesion Grants for Local Government, we are investing in the future of our state.

“These grants will contribute towards protecting our society and supporting the true spirit of our multicultural state.”

The Minns Labor Government is continuing work to build better regional communities by undertaking vital upgrades to the XPT rail fleet which services Grafton and other regional centres across the state.

The XPT fleet has reached an impressive 40-plus years in service and work is underway to ensure the fleet continues to provide passengers with a safe and comfortable service until the next generation Regional Rail Fleet is ready to be introduced into passenger service.

The NSW Government has committed $40.3 million over five years for the XPT Life Extension Project.

The upgrades of the XPT fleet, to be carried out locally in NSW by Sydney Trains, include:

• extensive mechanical work to improve service reliability
• new carpeting and refurbished seats
• maintenance to improve operation of the air-conditioning and toilets
• repaint and refurbishment of the power cars.

These upgrades follow the former Liberal Nationals Government’s failure to deliver a single new regional train after their announcement of the new fleet more than a decade ago. Like the New Intercity Fleet, which the Minns Government is now successfully rolling out on the Central Coast line, the former Liberal National Government oversaw the new Regional Rail Fleet ballooning in cost and missing deadline after deadline. As a direct consequence of this mismanagement, regional passengers have been forced to travel on the old XPTs for years longer than necessary.

To allow for these essential upgrades of the XPT fleet, NSW TrainLink will operate two out of the six daily rail services between Grafton and Sydney with premium coaches for approximately 12 months from mid-March 2025. The remaining four daily rail services will continue to operate with XPT trains.

NSW TrainLink is going through a public tender process to secure a coach provider to provide premium wheelchair accessible vehicles for this service.

This will provide travelers from Grafton the opportunity to choose between premium quality coach services or rail options, depending on their time of travel.

The community will be updated before the two new coach services start with details about the timetable.

Ticket prices will be the same as the rail service and bookings will continue as usual through the NSW TrainLink booking website or by calling 13 22 32.

This investment in upgrading the rail fleet is part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to rebuild and renew our regional transport and roads, ensuring communities across our regions have access to safe and connected infrastructure and services. This ongoing work includes:

• Delivering more than $300 million to regional councils across the state to accelerate the repair of roads and transport infrastructure damaged by natural disasters
• Investing a record close to $250 million in upgrades to make our regional roads safer
• Releasing Draft Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plans for the Hunter and South East and Tablelands, and commencing development on plans for other regions of NSW, to provide a vision for regional initiatives in the short to long term.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison:

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to building a better transport system for regional NSW including the network of NSW TrainLink trains and coaches.

“To ensure passengers can continue to travel safely, comfortably and reliably in the longer term, over $40 million in essential upgrades are getting underway on the ageing XPT fleet now.

“The Liberals and Nationals sat back for 12 years and ran the XPT fleet into the ground while leaving communities at risk of losing services.  We’re fixing the mess and investing to improve services.”

Labor spokesperson for Clarence Emily Suvaal:

“Passengers who use two of the six daily NSW TrainLink Grafton services – which will be replaced by coaches while work on the XPTs is carried out – can look forward to a timetabled service on a premium, airconditioned, wheelchair-accessible vehicle during the upgrade. The trains will return to service at the completion of the upgrade process.

“The other four daily North Coast train services which service Grafton will continue as rail services, so travelers can choose the time of day and mode of transport that best suits their needs.”

The Minns Government is providing Aboriginal businesses and organisations with business investment, skills development and training opportunities that will help them attract new customers, expand their operations and plan and prepare for the future.

A total of 42 Aboriginal businesses and organisations will receive a share of $5.6 million to invest in business mentoring and coaching, upskilling and training, the development of strategic business plans and governance frameworks and purchasing assets to expand operations.

The Aboriginal business sector in regional NSW is growing and access to training, development, and investment is vital for the success of both Aboriginal organisations and communities.

Dharra Jerky and Secret Harvest in Dubbo, Booma Food Group in Cessnock, Binjang Tea in Wellington, Deniliquin’s Barka Treats, and Native Botanical Brewery and Dream Builders on Country in the Central Coast are among the businesses who will boost production and pursue larger market opportunities through this funding.

The NSW Government is dedicated to closing the gap by removing barriers that hinder access to business training, mentoring and capital investment for Aboriginal people in regional NSW.

These growth opportunities have been made possible by $1.29 million from the NSW Government’s Regional Aboriginal Partnerships Program Round 2 and $4.33 million from the Regional Development Trust’s Aboriginal Economic Development Package.

According to a 2022 NSW Treasury report there are some 737 NSW Indigenous businesses registered with the Aboriginal procurement organisation, Supply Nation, the most of any state or territory.

Median annual revenue for these businesses is $303,000, with each employing a median full-time equivalent staff of 3.8.

Minister for Regional New South Wales Tara Moriarty said:

“Aboriginal businesses and organisations in regional NSW have a unique connection to land, culture and community, with traditional knowledge and cultural practices integrated into their businesses.

“Not only do Aboriginal businesses and organisations contribute to the regional local economies, but they also contribute to environmental sustainability and cultural development in regional communities.

“Getting the best training and resources into these regions is the first step in bridging skills gaps, supporting sustainable growth and creating jobs.”

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said:

“The Minns Government is strongly committed to closing the gap by supporting Aboriginal-owned businesses and organisations to continue to grow and develop.

“NSW is unique in having a specific Closing the Gap Priority Reform – reform number 5 – focused on bolstering Aboriginal business growth and economic prosperity.

“By giving regional Aboriginal communities the tools they need we can help boost local economies now and into the future, promoting long term success.

“Thriving Aboriginal businesses are both the result and the source of thriving and empowered Aboriginal communities, with both sides of the coin key to closing the gap.”

CEO of the NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce Deb Barwick said:

“Access to tailored mentoring, training and business development opportunities will allow Aboriginal businesses to strengthen their operations and expand their reach.

“Supporting the growth of Aboriginal businesses in regional NSW drives economic development and creates lasting, meaningful opportunities for local communities.

“This funding ensures Aboriginal businesses are equipped with the tools to build their capacity, improve governance and unlock their full potential.”

Aboriginal business Dharra Jerky founder Hayden Williams said:

“I started making jerky as a hobby about six years ago and I have been proud to watch it begin to bloom into something much bigger.

“This support is giving me a great opportunity to upgrade my equipment so I can take my small business to the next level.”

Proponent	Project name	Location
Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation	Governance Enhancement Initiative for Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation	Bellingen Shire Council
Gathangga Wakulda Aboriginal Corporation	Growing Atanga Wakulda	Port Macquarie-hastings Council
Djiyagan Dhanbaan Incorporation	Nyiirun Djiyagan Wakulda, Women’s Festival	Port Macquarie-hastings Council
Walhallow Local Aboriginal Land Council	Walhallow Aboriginal Cultural Tourism Business Capacity Building	Liverpool Plains Shire Council
Barka Treats	Dog Food Production Enhancement	Edward River Council
Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council	Bunyah LALC Guulabaa Cafe Enterprise Equipment	Port Macquarie-hastings Council
Binjang Tea	Binjang Tea Capacity Building: Fostering Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Business Growth	Dubbo Regional Council
Native Botanical Brewery	Native Botanical Brewery’s “Pops Country” Initiative: Cultivating Indigenous Heritage from Bush to Brewery	Central Coast Council
BS Ellis and ML Ellis	Business diversification and capacity uplift	Eurobodalla Shire Council
Strong Movement	The Athlete Performance and Conditioning Enhancement Program	Tamworth Regional Council
LORE AUSTRALIA PTY LTD	Develop a business plan to grow and expand LORE Australia	Bellingen Shire Council
Bugalwan Indigenous Corporation	Ma Banyahr	Central Coast Council
Strong Spirit Services Ltd	Strong Spirit Cultural Pathways Program	Port Macquarie-hastings Council
Aboriginal Advancement Alliance Trading As Acadiam	Buzz Bus Activating Communities Road Trip – engaging, aligning and pathways to local jobs	Cessnock City Council
Mingaan Wiradjuri Aboriginal Corporation	Mingaan Wiradjuri Aboriginal Corporation Website upgrade with booking platform	Lithgow City Council
Bangguri Gadhu Cultural Tours	Bermagui Survival Day	Bega Valley Shire Council
Bara Barang Corporation Ltd	Dream Builders On Country : Raspberry Fields Business Planning	Central Coast Council
Dharra Jerky	Expanding Indigenous-Owned Dharra Jerky: Strengthening Manufacturing, Retail, and Wholesale Operations for Regional Growth	Dubbo Regional Council
Red Chief Local Aboriginal Land Council	Red Chief Aboriginal Cultural Tourism Business Planning Initiative	Gunnedah Shire Council
Integr8y	Integr8y – Building Capacity for Aboriginal Business Growth through Tender and Grant Writing Expertise: A Strategic Approach to Securing Contracts and Economic Empowerment	Tamworth Regional Council
Brennan Cultural Enterprise Pty Ltd T/A Waagayamba Consultants	Igniting Growth: Empowering Aboriginal Businesses with Virtual Support and Mentoring	Clarence Valley Council
Mara-Mara Community Incorporated	Renovations To Mara-Mara Community Incorporated	Tamworth Regional Council
JA Berry & DJ Carney t/as Cafe2823	Cafe2823 Courtyard & Function Area	Narromine Shire Council
Euraba Paper Aboriginal Corporation	Euraba Paper Company upgrade project	Moree Plains Shire Council
Tranby Aboriginal Co-operative Limited	Community Capacity Development Project: Building Governance and Enterprise Development opportunities	Mid North Coast and North Western LALC regions
Secret Harvest Pty Ltd	Skin Care Manufacturing	Dubbo Regional Council
Twofold Aboriginal Corporation	Twofold Solar Energy System – Off Grid Solar System to supply campground and other buildings on site	Bega Valley Shire Council
Unkya Local Aboriginal Land Council	Gumbaynggirr Keeping Place – Completion & Activation Project	Nambucca Valley Council
Jaanymili Bawrrungga Aboriginal Corporation	Gumbaynggirr Native Seedling Enterprise: Cultivating Growth and Sustainability	Nambucca Valley Council
Native Botanical Brewery	Native Botanical Brewery Expansion Wambelong Creek Coffee “Bush to Brewery” initiative	Central Coast Council
Awabakal Local Aboriginal Land Council	Winjirra Events	Lake Macquarie City Council
Booma Food Group Pty Ltd	Booma Food Biz Growth	Cessnock City Council
Waminda South Coast Women’s Health & Wellbeing Aboriginal Corporation	Sustaining our Blak Cede Enterprise	Shoalhaven City Council
More Cultural Rehabs Less Jails	Yindyamarra Landcare	Dubbo Regional Council
Gari Yala Pty Ltd T/As Chocolate On Purpose	Ngunggilanha Native Garden & Chocolate Nexus: Reclaiming Culture, Activating Wisdom, Empowering Community	Wingecarribee Shire Council
Grafton Ngerrie Local Aboriginal Land Council	Grafton Ngerrie Nursery Enterprise: Cultivating Economic Growth and Cultural Prosperity	Clarence Valley Council
Home Of Recovery	Home of Recovery Up Lift	Dubbo Regional Council
Gadhungal Marring	Native nursery, mentorship program and managment tools	Shoalhaven City Council
Aralumbin Pty Ltd	Project “Bush to You” brings bush foods to every plate, bridging the gap and collectively educating Australia.	Tweed Shire Council
Yurruga Indigenous Corporation	Yurruga Sustainable Solar Project Uplift and Expansion	Dubbo Regional Council
Bega Local Aboriginal Land Council	Building resilience and sustainability and focusing on circularity through a cultural lens	Bega Valley Shire Council
Wiradjuri Condobolin Corporation Limited	Galari Horticulture – Green hou

The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its election commitment to tackle pest and weed infestations between neighbouring public and private lands across the state through its $10 million investment in new or expanded, on the ground, biosecurity projects.

The Good Neighbours Program, led by Local Land Services, will undertake 21 initial projects in priority areas across NSW.

The initiative is part of the Government’s $945 million commitment to addressing biosecurity threats to the state’s $20 billion primary industries sector.

The Good Neighbours projects will target pest animals and problem weeds, including feral deer, feral pigs, tropical soda apple and hudson pear.

Improved on-ground outcomes will be achieved through coordinated pest animal and weed control programs, as well as capacity-building workshops, training and education for landholders and land managers.

The 21 projects will be delivered in partnership with respective public land managers including Forestry Corporation, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and local councils.

The Good Neighbours Program highlights the importance of public and private land managers working together to prevent the spread of pests and weeds and protect the NSW economy, environment and community.

Pest animals and weeds impact more than 70 per cent of the state’s threatened species and endangered ecological communities, posing a significant agricultural threat.

The Good Neighbours Program brings together a range of stakeholders and agencies to combat the issue and educate landholders and land managers about their shared general biosecurity duty under the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015 to control pests and weeds on their properties.

The program will run until mid-2026, with additional projects to be funded. Visit nsw.gov.au/good-neighbours to learn more.

Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty said:

“Effective pest and weed management are critical to supporting agricultural productivity and biodiversity in NSW, and it’s best achieved by working as a united front.”

“The Good Neighbours program demonstrates the NSW Government’s commitment to protecting our natural environment and agricultural industry by focusing our resources on areas where we can work together to achieve the best results.

“As the saying goes, everybody needs good neighbours. Biosecurity is a shared responsibility, and we all have a part to play.”

Local Land Services Project Manager Good Neighbours Program, Dale Kirby said:

“When it comes to coordinated pest animal and weed control programs, many hands make light work.”

“We can achieve far better outcomes when private and public landholders work together, with expert advice and support from Local Land Services, to reduce impacts and limit the spread of pests and weeds across the landscape.”

MEDIA: Michael Salmon | Minister Moriarty | 0417495018

Good Neighbours projects

• Cane Toad Program (North Coast) – Joint efforts between the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Local Land Services, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Forestry Corporation of NSW, Landcare and private landholders to control cane toads on the North Coast.
• Chinese Violet Program (North Coast) – This program is based in the Tweed Shire, where Rous County Council is targeting Chinese violet on the fringes of the Heritage Wollumbin National Park and Jerusalem National Park.
• Job’s Tears Eradication Program (North Coast) – Led by Rous County Council, Landcare and landholders, this program aims to eradicate Job’s tears from creek lines in the Kyogle and Lismore shires.
• Tropical Soda Apple Eradication (TSA) Program (North Coast) – This program targets Tropical soda apple across the Lismore, Kyogle, Ballina, Byron, Richmond Valley and Tweed local government areas, led by Rous County Council, community groups and landholders.
• Far South Coast Coastal Weeds Program (South East) – Tackling weeds such as coastal bitou bush and sea spurge on the Far South Coast between Tuross and Wonboyn, led by Far South Coast Landcare, local councils, Local Land Services and the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
• Hudson Pear Control Program – Kinchega National Park (Western) – Combating Hudson Pear in the middle reaches of Stephens Creek to the west of Kinchega National Park, led by the managers of Kars and Eureka stations, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Castlereagh Macquarie County Council and Local Land Services.
• Jumping Cholla Control Program (Western) – Targeting Jumping cholla in the Living Desert State Park and nearby Limestone and Nine Mile stations in the Broken Hill area, with the help of the station owners, Broken Hill City Council, Castlereagh Macquarie County Council and Local Land Services.
• Parthenium Weed Eradication (North West)  Management and control of Parthenium weed across two Travelling Stock Reserves (TSR) at Croppa Creek, led by North West Local Land Services and supported by local councils, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, TSR users, landholders and Traditional Owners.
• Mt Stuart Boxing Glove Control Program (Western) – Tackling the spread of Boxing glove cactus in Tibooburra, south of the Sturt National Park, in partnership with the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Mt Stuart Station neighbours, Castlereagh Macquarie County Council, Crown Lands and Local Land Services.
• North Coast Branch Pig Control Program (North Coast and Northern Tablelands) – Feral pig control led by the North Coast branch of the National Parks and Wildlife Service across 12 reserves from western Richmond River to the coast, from Ballina in the north to Hat Head in the south.
• Orange Hawkweed Eradication Program (South East) – A collaboration between Snowy Monaro Council, Snowy Valleys Council, Local Land Services, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and private landholders targeting Hawkweed in the Kosciuszko National Park and surrounding private land.
• Strategic Weed Management and Control – Blackberry and St John’s Wort (Central West) – Coordinated control of priority weeds within Goobang National Park, led by Parkes Shire Council, Macquarie and Lachlan Valley Weeds Committee, Central West and Central Tablelands regional weeds committees and neighbouring landholders.
• Wild Horse Cross Tenure Eradication Program (North Coast) – Wild horse control focused on the Barcoongere area, south of Grafton, in conjunction with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, National Parks and Wildlife Service and landholders.
• Bathurst Joint Weed Program (Central Tablelands) – Working with the Forestry Corporation of NSW and private landholders to control weeds such as broom, gorse and Chilean needle grass between state forest and private land in Bathurst.
• Bathurst Pest Program – Feral Pig Management Program (Central Tablelands) – Support for a feral pig baiting program involving the Forestry Corporation of NSW, Crown Lands and neighbouring land managers.
• Feral deer control – Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area (Central Tablelands, Hunter, Greater Sydney and South East) – Coordinated efforts between the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Local Land Services, the Invasive Species Council, Crown Lands and public land managers to reduce the impacts of feral deer.
• Forestry Pest Management Neighbour’s Program (Western, Central West, Central Tablelands, North West, Riverina and Murray) – Targeting feral pig populations on properties with state forest boundaries in the Western NSW region, led by the Forestry Corporation of NSW and state forest neighbours.
• Koala Habitat Restoration (North Coast) – Protecting and restoring koala habitat in the Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie areas in conjunction with private landholders, Local Aboriginal Land Councils, Landcare groups, National Parks and Wildlife Service, and the Australian Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
• North Coast Feral Deer Management Program (North Coast) – An existing feral deer coordinated control program based in the Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie areas involving local councils, Forestry Corporation of NSW, National Parks and Wildlife Service and private landholders.
• Red Cestrum Management and Control (North Coast) – This program is focused on controlling Red cestrum infestations on the Dorrigo Plateau, led by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Forestry Corporation of NSW, Bellingen Shire Council and private landholders.
• Tamworth Peri Urban Pest Species Project (North West) – Targeting feral goats, pigs and deer within the Tamworth Local Government Area, supported by Tamworth Regional Council, Crown Lands and private landholders.

The Minns Labor Government is slashing red tape to get more homes built faster across the state, unveiling a clear blueprint to speed up approvals and ensure new properties are connected and ready to turn on the tap sooner.

The Housing Approval Reform Action Plan is a joint initiative between the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), Sydney Water, and WaterNSW to streamline approvals and accelerate the delivery of critical infrastructure.

After more than a decade of underinvestment and stalled approvals, the NSW Government is taking action, establishing a cross-government team to fast-track water and wastewater infrastructure, ensuring developments stay on track and homes are delivered sooner.

Every new home requires essential infrastructure. From providing drinking water and wastewater management to handling stormwater, a robust water cycle management plan is a key factor in assessing land use and development proposals in NSW.

Government agencies evaluate a wide range of potential impacts on water quality, including stormwater management, erosion and sediment control during construction and wastewater disposal.

Beyond accelerating housing construction, the plan will focus on protecting, enhancing, and restoring waterways and water sources to ensure long-term sustainability.

The Housing Approval Reform Action Plan streamlines housing delivery and eases system pressure through clear actions, including:

• Expanding risk-based triaging for all referrals to ensure homes that are ready can be connected without delay.
• Streamlining the removal of groundwater process on building sites to ensure construction can commence quickly and safety.
• Revising key performance indicators to mitigate inefficiencies.
• Support developers and Water Servicing Coordinators in getting their applications right from
  the start.
• Facilitating early engagement for smoother applications.

Following an industry forum in August 2024, these reforms were shaped with key stakeholders and construction industry leaders, who highlighted real-world obstacles slowing housing development, to break down barriers and get more homes built faster.

This action plan strengthens the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to building a better NSW, including:

• $2.2 billion infrastructure investment to fund more housing, critical infrastructure and better planning for housing.
• Over $250 million to continue the overhaul of the planning system and planning reforms.
• The development of the NSW Pattern Book and accelerated planning pathway for those who use the pre-approved patterns.
• $5.1 billion to build 8,400 new public homes, the largest investment in social and affordable housing.
• Creation of Housing Delivery Authority that recently announced plans to fast-track the delivery of 6,400 new homes.

To learn more, please visit: https://water.dpie.nsw.gov.au/our-work/plans-and-strategies/housing-approval-reform-action-plan/

Minister for Housing and Water Rose Jackson said:

“Drinking water, wastewater and stormwater might not be front of mind, but they’re make-or-break for getting homes built and ready to live in.

“We’re cutting red tape, speeding up approvals, and pulling every lever we’ve got to get more homes on the ground faster—because NSW can’t afford delays.

“This plan is about fixing the system. The entire NSW water sector has come together with developers to find solutions that actually work and get things moving.

“These are practical changes that will slash approval timeframes and address industry concerns—while still doing the right thing by our water sources and environment.”

NSW Executive Director of the Property Council of Australia Katie Stevenson said:

“When applications for apartment buildings get the stamp of approval from planning, there are often further strings attached where significant excavations need additional sign-off from water authorities and this adds costly further delays to the delivery of new housing.

“Today’s announcement effectively declares 2025 as a year of cultural change for the three water authorities involved in the pre-construction approval of new housing – it is the sort of leadership we need to align all aspects of the government’s activities toward the resolution of the housing crisis.

“We appreciate the priorities outlined in the action plan, along with the specific activities and timelines it includes, which have been created through extensive consultation with the industry.”