Category: NSW News

Far West NSW communities have access to a safer, more resilient and smoother Pooncarie Road following completion of historic $48.8 million Australian and NSW Government-funded sealing projects.

The Australian Government invested $31.7 million and the NSW Government contributed $17.1 million to the projects, which were delivered by Wentworth Shire Council and Central Darling Shire Council between 2021 and 2024.

Before the projects were delivered, an 87.5-kilometre stretch of Pooncarie Road between Menindee and Pooncarie had a dirt surface that meant motorists had to deal with a less safe surface, slower travel times and regular road closures after heavy rainfall leaving some communities cut off for weeks at a time.

The sealing projects completed in recent months have led to easier access to essential services communities rely on, while also boosting freight efficiency and improving access to tourism opportunities, including for visitors to the popular Menindee Lakes.

More than 75 people worked on the sealing projects which also provided a boost to local employment.

Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“These important road sealing projects have involved many people in the local community and I’m pleased to hear all the hard work that has gone into it has paid off.

“This has been a big job and a joint effort – and one which the Australian Government has been proud to invest in.

“I’m particularly pleased to see that as a result of these projects, all vehicles, including caravans, can now enjoy year-round access to the mighty Menindee Lakes and Mungo National Park.”

NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison:

“The full sealing of Pooncarie Road has cut travel times by around 90 minutes between Menindee and Wentworth.

“Previously some vehicles had to do 20 km/h along parts of the dirt road and it could be impassable when there was wet weather.

“It’s great to hear reports of increased tourism numbers to Menindee and Pooncarie since the sealing took place.

“The NSW Government is proud to have invested in such significant projects in the state’s Far West. These projects have delivered major safety, economic and social benefits to some of our important outback communities.”

Senator for NSW Deborah O’Neill:

“The previous deficiencies of this route were acutely felt by communities who use Pooncarie Road.

“Completing this upgrade is huge news for everyone who relies on what is one of the region’s major arterial routes.

“Pooncarie Road now more safely and reliably provides vital connections to emergency and health services, schools, and employment opportunities.”

State Member for Barwon Roy Butler:

“This project has been a real game changer for local communities with motorists now able to travel on a reliable road surface that’s much safer and resilient to wet weather.

“Improved access for tourists, locals and freight services will benefit these Far West communities including the western pastoralists who are operating sheep, goat and cattle industries in the area.”

State Member for Murray Helen Dalton:

“These projects are a good example of all three levels of government working together to make this long overdue sealing a reality.

“I’m happy more of our communities are benefiting from better roads.”

Member of the NSW Legislative Council Stephen Lawrence:

“Our investments in a better Pooncarie Road will benefit current and future generations for many years to come.

“Rural and regional communities rely on roads for so much of their well-being and I am pleased to see these improvements to Far West roads being delivered.”

Wentworth Shire Mayor Daniel Linklater:

“This is a transformative milestone for our region.

“The sealing of Pooncarie Road, connecting Pooncarie to Menindee, is a game-changer for tourism, road users, and local economies.

“Reliable year-round access makes travelling safer and more enjoyable while opening up new opportunities for local businesses, with Pooncarie already seeing travellers arriving earlier than ever before.

“I commend both Wentworth Shire Council and Central Darling Shire Council working together to deliver this vital upgrade.

“The improved connectivity benefits communities across both shires, strengthens regional ties, supports freight and supply chains, and draws more visitors to iconic destinations.

“We are proud to have partnered with the Australian and NSW governments on these major projects. I look forward to seeing the lasting economic and social benefits these projects will bring to our communities and beyond.”

Central Darling Shire Council General Manager Greg Hill:

“Central Darling Shire Council appreciates the funding support from the Australian and NSW governments because the road desperately needed to be sealed for road safety reasons.

“Now we can keep the road open during wet conditions, benefiting both residents and tourists.

“This is a significant achievement. I would like to congratulate everyone involved in these projects over the last three years including our Shire Services Director, and the project manager for council, Reece Wilson, and his team.

“These are major projects for not only our shire but also the Far West region. The benefits will be long lasting. We also expect to see more tourists visiting the area now that the road is sealed.”

A year after launching the state’s first arts, culture and creative industries policy, the NSW Government has made a range of key Board and Trust appointments to drive implementation of the policy and grow the creative industries in NSW. The appointments recognise the role the NSW Cultural Institutions play in supporting the arts and creative industries.

Released in December 2023 the Creative Communities policy commits to a whole-of-government approach to sustainably grow the creative industries – to advocate for, invest in and enable the creative and cultural ecosystem across the state to realise its potential.

Collectively, the state’s Cultural Institutions reach across all disciplines within the creative industries, engaging almost 19 million visitors annually through their doors, and supporting over 2,500 direct jobs.

New appointments are:

• Michael Rose AM, Chairman of the Committee for Sydney and Greater Sydney Parklands Authority appointed as President of the Art Gallery of NSW Board of Trustees.
• The Hon. Peter Collins,former Minister for the Arts, and former Treasurer, appointed to the Art Gallery of NSW Board of Trustees
• Emile Sherman,Academy Award winning producer, appointed to the Art Gallery of NSW Board of Trustees
• Dr Cathy Foley AO PSM,Australia’s Chief Scientist, appointed to the Australian Museum Trust
• The Hon. David Borger,former Minister for Education and Minister for Transport,appointed as Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences Trust President
• Linda Scott, former City of Sydney Deputy Lord Mayor, appointedas Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences Trustee
• Professor Barney Glover AO, Commissioner of Jobs and Skills and former Western Sydney University Vice-Chancellor, appointed as Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences Trustee
• The Hon. Bob Carr, former NSW Premier, NSW Minister for the Arts and former Minister for Foreign Affairs, appointed as Chair of the Museums of History NSW
• The Hon. Rob Stokes,formerMinister for Cities, Minister for Education, Minister for Planning and Public Spacesappointed to the Museums of History NSW board
• The Hon. Bob Debus AM, former Minister Assisting the Minister for Arts, appointed as Library Council President
• Professor Jennifer Barrett, University of SydneyPro Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous (Academic) appointed to the State Library of NSW Library Council
• Troy Bramston, senior columnist with The Australian newspaper, appointed to the State Library of NSW Library Council

Minister for Arts John Graham said: 

“I wish to thank each of the outgoing trustees and presidents. The government and the people of NSW are fortunate that you have generously volunteered your time, your expertise, your networks and your passion.

“In particular, I would like to acknowledge the work of the outgoing chairs and presidents – David Gonski, Peter Collins, George Souris and Mary O’Kane. As an incoming Minister I have relied upon each of you for your advice. Your contributions are a gift of public service to support culture.

“A year after the launch of Creative Communities, the NSW Arts, Culture and Creative Industries policy, I am pleased to have an opportunity to appoint a number of new chairs and boards of key state institutions. I look forward to working with them to implement the policy and grow the creative industries in NSW.”

Incoming chair of the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Michael Rose said:

“The Art Gallery of New South Wales plays an important role in the cultural and creative life of Sydney. Its influence and significance have strengthened under David Gonski’s leadership.

“I am honoured to be appointed to succeed David as President of the Board of Trustees and I am looking forward to working with the trustees and the Art Gallery’s executive team as the Art Gallery continues its extraordinary work and extends its invitation to even wider audiences across Sydney, Australia and the world.”

Outgoing chair of the Art Gallery of New South Wales, David Gonski said:

“The Art Gallery of New South Wales is in my view the beating cultural heart of Sydney. Every director, president, trustee, staff member and artist who has, over the Art Gallery’s more than 150-year history, walked its floors has contributed to the evolution of this beloved and vital institution. It has been a privilege to witness the Art Gallery’s transformation into a truly world class art museum enriching Sydney’s cultural life and positioning itself to continue to serve the people of New South Wales for generations to come.”

Incoming chair of the Museums of History NSW, Bob Carr said:

“My affection for and fascination with history is well known. I spoke last week at my first board meeting about elevating history in NSW, engaging with the public about history. Not about any single enforced narrative, but on the basis that history is many stories and they jostle with one another.

Outgoing chair of the Museums of History NSW, Mary O’Kane said:

“It has been my privilege to chair the board of Museums of History NSW, the State’s first cultural institution dedicated to the preservation and appreciation of our history. Museums of History NSW has an important role in making history accessible, through our archives, heritage properties and collections.

“Bob Carr is the perfect appointment for MHNSW. I wish him and the Board well in their continued work in enhancing opportunities for people to understand and participate in the history of NSW.” 

Incoming chair of the State Library of New South Wales, Bob Debus said:

“I cherish the great cultural institutions of our state and it’s a particular honour to be moving to this position at the State Library. I think libraries are getting more important, not less, as the technological revolution continues.”

Outgoing chair of the State Library of New South Wales, George Souris said

“The Library’s reputation and its position in the CBD of Sydney makes it a magnet for scholars, researchers and students alike, and its regular exhibitions offer the people of NSW and tourists something that always astounds the visitor by the unexpected extent of the treasures held,”

“I applaud the appointment of former Arts Minister Bob Debus; he is the perfect appointment to continue to enhance the standing and place making of this greatly loved public institution,”

Incoming President of the Powerhouse Museum Trust, David Borger said:

“After serving on the Powerhouse Museum Trust for the past six years, I’m thrilled to be taking on the role of President. The Powerhouse Museum is Australia’s largest museum group and occupies a special place in the cultural landscape of NSW. Over the new few years, we will open Powerhouse Parramatta, the state’s first cultural institution in Western Sydney which will engage audiences of all ages with spectacular exhibitions across the applied arts and sciences. This iconic new museum will transform Parramatta’s CBD and attract visitors from overseas and interstate to Western Sydney. We will also reopen the much-loved Powerhouse Ultimo after a heritage revitalization, reorienting the museum’s entrance to enliven the local area and attract a new generation of visitors.”

Outgoing President of the Powerhouse Museum Trust, the Hon. Peter Collins AM KC said

“The Powerhouse Museum Trust President is entrusted with guiding the nation’s leading applied arts and sciences museum, and it has been my great honor and privilege to serve in this role for the past four years as this 143-year-old institution undergoes an unprecedented renewal. The Powerhouse is a beloved institution, and it will be a transformative presence in Western Sydney when the visionary new museum Powerhouse Parramatta opens. I’m pleased to hand over the baton as Trust President to my fellow Trustee David Borger who I know will do a wonderful job guiding the museum in the lead-up to opening Powerhouse Parramatta and reopening Powerhouse Ultimo.”

Background

The NSW Cultural Institutions are the: Art Gallery of New South Wales, Australian Museum, Museum of Applied Arts and Applied Sciences (the Powerhouse Museum), Museums of History NSW, State Library of NSW, Sydney Opera House.

Destination NSW has also seen a refresh of their board.

Below is a summary of recent new or renewed appointments:

Institution	New or renewed appointments
Art Gallery of New South Wales	Michael Rose AM (Chair)The Hon. Peter CollinsEmile ShermanSally Herman OAMCaroline RothwellParis Neilson
Australian Museum	Dr Cathy FoleyJosephine Sukkar AMProfessor Larissa Behrendt AO
Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (known as the Powerhouse Museum)	The Hon. David Borger OAM (Chair)Linda ScottProfessor Barney GloverBeau NeilsonProfessor Robynne Quiggin
Museums of History NSW	The Hon. Bob Carr (Chair)Penelope Seidler AMThe Hon. Rob Stokes
State Library of NSW	The Hon. Bob Debus (Chair)Troy BramstonProfessor Jenny BarrettRobert Cameron AO
Sydney Opera House	David Campbell OAM
Destination NSW	Andrew McEvoyThe Hon. Jodi McKay

More electric trucks will be rolling out onto Sydney streets within weeks, following the completion of Janus Electric’s first solar-powered Charge and Change Station at the Moorebank Intermodal Precinct.

The cutting-edge facility gives electric trucks, produced by Janus Electric on the Central Coast, the ability to swap the 2 metre by 1.2 metre batteries for fully charged batteries, and head off on their run.

The quick swap takes just four minutes – less time than it takes to refuel. A truck with a single trailer can generally travel between 300 to 400km on a single battery, with battery swapping stations strategically located, to keep trucks on the move.

It’s the first facility of its kind to be built at an intermodal terminal where freight is swapped between roads and rail. There are eight other Charge and Change stations across Australia, with more on the way.

Janus Electric’s battery-swapping technology allows for the batteries to be powered by rooftop solar energy, minimising wait times for drivers and ready to be picked up by the next electric truck to visit the Charge and Change Station.

The investment in the new facility follows the NSW Government’s introduction of the Towards Net Zero Emissions Freight Policy which outlines Government and industry actions that will reduce the carbon footprint of heavy vehicles and rail freight.

A key step in delivering the policy, extra-mass provisions for access to state roads, means electric trucks – like trucks from Janus Electric – can be used across the state without sacrificing cargo quantities.

New modelling shows freight transport and logistics contributed an estimated $74.3 billion to NSW in 2022-23, with the sector predicted to grow to an estimated $131.5 billion by 2060-61.

The freight transport and logistics sector provides more than 330,000 full time jobs, a number which could grow as high as 565,000 by 2060-61.

As the freight sector continues to grow, the NSW Government will keep working with industry to ensure it embraces new technology to continue growing sustainably.

Minister for Transport, Jo Haylen said:

“Freight demand is projected to rise by 34 per cent across NSW from 2021 to 2061. We’re going to need more capacity, not less, which is why we’re working on a plan with the freight industry to get us to net zero.

“Many freight operators are natural innovators and are already investing in low emission technologies.

“The NSW Government’s Zero Emissions Freight Policy means that the government is supporting industry and helping them invest in new and exciting technologies across the state and at key freight centres like Moorebank.”

Janus Electric CEO Lex Forsyth said:

“Launching this solar-powered Charge and Change Station is a crucial step towards a cleaner, greener future for Australia’s transport sector.

“Janus Electric is at the forefront of electric vehicle innovation in Australia, offering cutting-edge solutions to help reduce carbon emissions in the heavy transport industry. Our Charge and Change Stations enable quick battery swaps for electric trucks, providing a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional refuelling methods.”

Simon Carter, Head of ESG for the Precinct’s developer, ESR Australia & NZ said:

“We are thrilled to support the launch of the Janus Electric Charge and Change Station at Moorebank Intermodal Precinct, a transformative step for Australia’s heavy vehicle transport sector.

“By facilitating battery swapping technology for electric trucks, we’re serving net zero ambitions and setting a new standard in sustainable freight transport.”

The $110.2 million Cowra Hospital Redevelopment has reached a major milestone, with the structure of the building now complete.

The ‘topping out’ of the new hospital is the latest construction milestone for the redevelopment, which will significantly enhance access to healthcare for the Cowra community.

When complete, the new hospital building will provide a modern and purpose-built health facility for the region and will include:

• An emergency department
• A general medical and surgery inpatient ward
• A peri-operative service
•  A maternity unit with a dedicated nursery
• Ambulatory care
• A dental clinic
• Renal dialysis
• Oncology
• Community Health and Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol services
• The hospital’s first CT Scanner

The latest milestone coincides with the release of a new artist’s impression showcasing the façade of the new hospital building, which has been designed to reflect the Cowra landscape.

Feedback from staff and the community has informed the new hospital’s two-level design, which will provide enhanced views of the district, as well as improved access and onsite parking and new landscaped areas.

Construction of the new hospital is providing a boost to the local economy with the engagement of 25 local businesses and well as the direct employment of a number of local contractors.

With structural works now complete, work will progress on the internal fit-out, services installation and exterior works.

Health services are continuing to operate during construction, with the new hospital on track for completion in 2025.

The project is being delivered by Health Infrastructure and Western NSW Local Health District in partnership with Richard Crookes Constructions.

For more information on the project, visit Cowra Hospital redevelopment.

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park:

“The topping out of the new hospital building is a major milestone in the delivery of a new health facility, which will enhance healthcare services for Cowra and the surrounding regions and increase capacity to better meet the current and future health needs of the local community.

“Our rural and regional communities, including the community of Cowra, deserve high quality contemporary and accessible health care, closer to home and this new hospital, due for completion next year will support staff, patients and the community now and into the future.”

Labor Spokesperson for Cootamundra, Stephen Lawrence MLC:

“The new hospital has been designed in close collaboration with staff and clinicians to create a welcoming and supportive environment for patients, visitors and staff.

“Construction of the new hospital building is also providing a welcome boost to the Cowra economy, supporting many local businesses and the direct employment of contractors.”

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New South Wales shone at the Australian Training Awards held in Canberra on Friday night, taking out some of the top awards of 2024.

Representatives from the state won the Trainee of the Year Award (Winner), Excellence in Language, Literacy and Numeracy Practice Award (Winner), Australian School-Based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year Award (Runner-up), Vocational Student of the Year Award (Runner-up), the Australian Apprenticeships Employer Award (Gold) and School Pathways to VET Award (Bronze).

Excellence in vocational education and training (VET) was everywhere to be seen during the 30^th year of the Australian Training Awards.

The VET sector came together at a gala night at the National Convention Centre in the capital to recognise apprentices, trainees, VET students, teachers, practitioners, employers and training providers from around Australia.

Dedication, commitment and achievement in VET were in the spotlight and celebrated at Australia’s premier training awards, attended by the winners, finalists, state and territory training ministers and representatives from the VET sector.

The NSW winners and finalists joined fellow achievers from all Australian states and territories to become ambassadors and role models for our great VET sector.

NSW 2024 Australian Training Award winners:

2024 Trainee of the Year Award (Winner) – Lachlan Carey

Lachlan pursued his passion to help others by completing a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care with Atkinson Training and Development. Bringing his fun, nurturing and patient nature to every interaction during his traineeship at A Magical Time Children’s Centre, Lachlan was immediately adored by the children in his care.

Excellence in Language, Literacy and Numeracy Practice Award (Winner) – Gemma Beall

Gemma is an energetic, creative and innovative vocational educator with more than 16 years’ experience delivering adult literacy and numeracy initiatives. Championing educational equity, opportunity and best practice, Gemma works with industry to incorporate language, literacy and numeracy training in the workplace. Gemma is the Team Leader Literacy (Sydney Region) at TAFE NSW. 

Australian School-Based Apprentice or Trainee of Year Award (Runner-up) – Dascha Harrison

Dascha, a Year 12 student at Newcastle High School, is undertaking a school-based traineeship to help her prepare for her career in child and adolescent psychiatry. Completing a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance at TAFE NSW, Dascha is employed at Hunter New England Health. Dascha is not only shining in her traineeship, she is also excelling in the classroom, on the sports field and in her part-time job.

Vocational Student of the Year Award (Runner-up) – Samantha Zannes

Knowing the importance of early intervention and tailored education for students with additional needs, Samatha pursued a vocational pathway to become an early childhood teacher. Samantha completed a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at ECTARC Training Services and is employed at Jenny’s Kindergarten and Early Learning Bathurst. Samantha says her VET pathway was the perfect avenue to success.

Australian Apprenticeships Employer Award (Gold) – Essential Energy

Essential Energy operates and maintains one of Australia’s largest electricity distribution networks and is committed to creating genuine career pathways across regional, rural and remote NSW. Essential Energy has trained 1,391 apprentices since 2001, with 92% completing their qualification and 64% staying with the company.  Essential Energy said recruiting and training locally was the key to their success.

School Pathways to VET Award (Bronze) – CathWest Innovation College

CathWest’s Pathways to Infrastructure program is a collaborative school-based traineeship designed to address skill shortages in the construction industry. CathWest students complete a Certificate II in Civil Construction, delivered by the Health and Safety Advisory Service, while undertaking paid employment at CPB Contractors and working towards their higher school certificate.

For more information on 2024 Australian Training Awards and the winners visit the Australian Training Awards website.

Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles:

“It is fantastic to get the chance to come together and celebrate the students, trainees, apprentices, teachers, trainers, providers, employers and advocates that make up our tertiary education system.

“The Australian Training Awards are about recognising the dedication and achievements of people in the VET sector and how VET plays a future-shifting role for so many individuals and the communities they live and work in.

“The Albanese Labor Government is committed to VET, including through our contribution of $12.6 billion over five years to the National Skills Agreement and 508,000 national enrolments for Free TAFE, including more than 231,000 people in New South Wales, in the first 18 months.” 

“Looking at the finalists this year, it is clear the VET touches every corner of this country; with representatives from metro, regional and rural communities from all states and territories.

“Congratulations to the winners, runners-up and finalists.”

NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan:

“I’m thrilled to see NSW shine at the 2024 Australian Training Awards, with Lachlan Carey and Gemma Bell leading the way as winners in their respective categories. Their achievements reflect the dedication, innovation, and skill within our state’s VET sector.

“While NSW took home several top awards, I also want to commend our runners up, including Dascha Harrison and Samantha Zannes, who both achieved incredible positions in highly competitive categories. Indeed, I am very proud of all our NSW winners who have represented our state so well.

“NSW’s success is a testament to the strength and diversity of our VET sector. From apprentices to educators and employers, these achievements highlight the critical role vocational training plays in equipping people with the skills to excel in their careers and contribute to our economy.

“Investing in vocational education and training is investing in the future of NSW. The Minns Labor Government is proud to be supporting this vital sector, after 12 years of Liberal-National neglect. We are not only creating opportunities for individuals, but also building a stronger, more resilient economy for our state.”

The inconvenient detour around a landslip at Naughtons Gap Road near Casino is now a thing of the past, following the completion of a $15.8 million disaster recovery project, funded by the Albanese and Minns Governments.

The project to repair the road to a more resilient standard was jointly funded through Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements; and is the first Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package (RRTRP) project started and completed.

In March 2021 a landslip brought on by heavy rain forced the closure of Naughtons Gap Road. Damage to the road was compounded by the severe weather events to hit the North Coast in February and March 2022.

The road remained closed until 6 December 2024 when Richmond Valley Council completed a major restoration and resilience project.

The Council used material recovered from the landslip on other projects, saving the council and the project $2.4 million in disposal fees.

The betterment project included the construction of catch fencing to contain future falling debris, the implementation of a soldier pile wall, as well as ground anchors, extensive earthworks, drainage and pavement reconstruction, with a focus on ensuring stability amidst ongoing landslip movements.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Jenny McAllister:

“The 2022 floods had an enduring impact on the Northern Rivers.

“We’re rebuilding roads to a more resilient standard for families to stay connected and safe.

“We’re working with the NSW Government to help communities recover from and prepare for future natural disasters.”

NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully:

“The NSW government is committed to making sure we do all we can to fortify the road and mitigate against future natural disasters and keep communities safe.

“This road is critical to the livelihoods of the residents who can now return to normalcy and feel assured about access in the future.”

NSW Minister for Regional Transport & Roads, Jenny Aitchison:

“We know that for every dollar invested in risk mitigation or betterment projects, up to $10 is saved in recovery, so the Naughtons Gap Road resilience project was an investment well worth making.

“Naughtons Gap Road stretches from Bentley to Casino, connecting key residential, commercial and industrial areas.

“The road has been closed since the March 2021 rain event when it initially cracked, and then further damage occurred from the landslip during the 2022 flood events.

“However, not only has the road been restored to full service, but additional betterment funding has also helped to strengthen the rebuilt section from future flooding and landslip events.

“This project provides an excellent example of what can be done when all levels of government work together.”

NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery, Janelle Saffin:

“Richmond Valley Council deserves commendation for recognising the value of the new disaster recovery program and acting quickly on it.

“They have achieved value for money and, most importantly, have improved access for the roughly 1000 motorists who were using this road each day before the March 2021 landslip.

“Other councils are following in their footsteps and are also showing their commitment to making life better for their residents.”

Richmond Valley Mayor, Robert Mustow:

“The opening marks an exciting milestone not only for Richmond Valley, but the whole Northern Rivers region, as the long-anticipated Naughtons Gap Road officially reopened to traffic.

“This essential infrastructure project, completed after two years of geotechnical investigations, planning, design and construction, was delivered at an efficient rate, despite recent heavy rain.

“We recognise this road closure has been an inconvenience to residents and businesses, and we thank them for their patience and understanding while this important work was undertaken.

“On behalf of our community I’d like to thank the Australian and NSW governments for the funding support which has enabled this project to be completed.”

The transformation of Blackwattle Bay has hit another major milestone with three highly experienced developers shortlisted to renew the 3.6-hectare parcel of Government-owned land, currently home to the Sydney Fish Market, into a vibrant mixed-use precinct.

After significant interest from industry, three developers have been shortlisted following an Expression of Interest process to partner with the NSW Government:

• Lendlease Development Pty Ltd
• Mirvac Office Developments Pty Ltd
• Stockland Urban Development Sub 2C Pty Ltd

These developers are all highly regarded urban renewal specialists with extensive experience in delivering housing, world-class public spaces, as well as active retail and commercial precincts.  

A change to the planning controls is being sought to enable a more flexible land use mix that responds to the need for more homes, without changing the building heights or gross floor area.

Shortlisted developers will be invited to submit a request for proposal in early 2025.

Under the proposed planning controls, renewal of the existing Sydney Fish Market site will deliver up to 1,100 new homes within walking distance of Sydney’s CBD, light rail and the future Pyrmont Metro Station.

This opportunity forms part of the broader urban renewal of Blackwattle Bay precinct bookended by the new Sydney Fish Market and a new harbourfront park at Bank Street.

The Blackwattle Bay precinct will see world-class public spaces delivered as a priority, including a new 1.1-hectare park at Bank Street and a new foreshore promenade, completing the missing link in the 15-kilometre continuous harbourside walk between Woolloomooloo and Rozelle Bay. 

Find out more about Blackwattle Bay

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“This is a major milestone for the project and a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform Blackwattle Bay into a lively world-class waterfront precinct alongside Sydney’s harbour, for all to enjoy.

“We are confident one of the shortlisted developers will deliver a vibrant new precinct including a new waterfront promenade and more open space alongside new homes and jobs.  

“Blackwattle Bay is now set to boost housing supply, while unlocking the potential of the area and creating thousands of jobs to support a thriving 24-hour economy. 

“Blackwattle Bay is in a prime location on the doorstep of the soon-to-be completed new Sydney Fish Market and will complete the last piece of the puzzle in the 15-kilometre harbourside walk from Woolloomooloo and Rozelle Bay.”

The Minns Labor Government is continuing to invest in meaningful action to prevent domestic and family violence across the state, including providing funding to proven prevention programs like Next Level in Coffs Harbour.

The NSW Government has provided a $250,000 grant to Anglicare North Coast to continue their domestic and family violence program for migrant and refugee communities, Next Level, in the Coffs Harbour region.

We recognise the unique needs of migrants and refugees whose domestic, family and sexual violence experiences can be further impacted by other factors, such as social and institutional barriers that inhibit access to services and systems that are available.

The funding provided by the NSW Government means new and existing participants can access the program. It also enables transition pathways to local and culturally safe support so that work to improve the safety of women and children and prevent domestic and family violence in multicultural communities can be maintained.

The Next Level program has already achieved positive outcomes for local families, women and children from multicultural backgrounds by providing holistic, in-language and culturally appropriate responses to domestic, family and sexual violence.

In the past year, 150 men and women from migrant and refugee backgrounds have participated in Next Level group work, as well as individual case management and counselling. The program has improved participants’ safety and wellbeing by advancing gender equality and promoting respectful relationships.

It has also proven effective in engaging with migrant and refugee men to have difficult conversations about their abusive behaviours. Through strong community connections, it has been able to intervene early and contribute to preventing and reducing violence against women and children from migrant and refugee backgrounds.

Anglicare’s program had previously been funded by the Federal government.

Funding by the NSW Government will ensure Next Level is funded to November 2025. It is part of the government’s ongoing work to create a safer New South Wales, by addressing domestic and family violence in a comprehensive way from primary prevention, earlier intervention to crisis responses and recovery.

To address the unique needs of victim survivors from multicultural backgrounds, the government has also invested $4.4 million in the NSW Multicultural Centre for Women’s and Family Safety.

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said:

“The NSW Government is continuing to work on building a safer New South Wales. We are taking a whole of government and whole of community approach to achieve the shared vision of ending gender-based violence.

“The Next Level program has demonstrated that it is effective in engaging with multicultural communities in the Coffs Harbour area, and implementing culturally safe strategies that prevent domestic and family violence in the community.

“That is why the NSW Government has stepped in to fund this program to ensure participants are fully supported to live safe and free from violence.”

Labor spokesperson for Coffs Harbour Cameron Murphy MLC said:

“I welcome the NSW Government’s significant support for the Next Level program.

“The program is vital for Coffs Harbour as it provides culturally appropriate support for migrants as we all work towards safe and respectful relationships in our community.”

CEO of Anglicare North Coast Mark McNamara said:

“Most of our program participants have experienced major trauma and loss, left their country, their homes and communities, to save their lives and search for a better way of life.

“Anglicare North Coast has seen the impact Next Level has had on local refugee and migrant communities, particularly their attitudes towards family relationships and gender-based violence.

“We have seen men in our group program openly embrace behaviour change strategies and gender equality, including advocating in their communities for family safety and respectful relationships.

“We have identified women at risk of experiencing domestic and family violence, and provided culturally safe support and individual counselling to prevent violence and abuse.

“I would like to thank the loyalty and professionalism shown by our program participants, staff and partners who kept the faith since the program was defunded in June 2024.

“This funding from the NSW Government will ensure we can continue to support our participants for the next year as they build their new lives in Coffs Harbour free from violence.”

Support services:

If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero / 000.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, call the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 for free counselling and referrals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN on 13 92 76.

The Minns Labor Government is continuing work to ensure regional communities thrive, with $50 million in grants becoming available for initiatives that promote regional economic development and support employment creation and retention.

Businesses, consortiums, local governments, associations, Aboriginal corporations, not for profits and other eligible applicants are encouraged to apply for a share of the $50 million Community Investment Program, delivered by the NSW Government’s $400 million Regional Development Trust.

Grants of between $500,000 and $5 million will be available for infrastructure projects and capital investments to create jobs and economic opportunities.

Between $250,000 and $1 million will be available for regional programs to improve service delivery and community connection and capacity building.

This is the second round of funding to be released from the NSW Government’s $400 million Regional Development Trust, this targeted investment has been guided by the Regional Development Advisory Council and informed by several roundtables with rural communities hosted by the Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty.

Projects funded under this round will align with the Regional Development Trust’s key focus areas of:

• Sustainable regional industries
• Aboriginal economic development and enterprise
• Community connection and capacity building
• Improving regional service delivery

This funding follows the NSW Government recently passing an update to the Regional Development Act, to ensure it reflects the needs of modern rural and regional NSW, expanding investment opportunities and enshrining integrity in the system.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development will host community information sessions, inviting eligible applicants to learn about the program, how to apply, and what projects and initiatives are eligible for targeted investment.

Applications open today, 6 December 2024, and close at 5pm on Thursday, 20 February 2024.

For more information: nsw.gov.au/regionaldevelopmenttrust

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“This latest initiative under the Regional Development Trust makes more funding available for regional and rural communities and will build on the Minns Labor Government’s positive track record in providing strategic investment for local projects that deliver real change in a timely manner.

“I have listened to people and businesses from around regional NSW, and so we are responding accordingly with a funding program that enables applicants to apply for investment for projects that are ready to go.

“I encourage businesses, consortiums and organisations to apply for this funding if you have a good idea on how to expand economic activity in a community or region.

“This funding will kick-start productive projects and initiatives across regional NSW, supporting the creation of needed infrastructure, new economies and also supporting the attraction of key workers to the regions.”