Category: NSW News

People who live, work or visit the Riverina and Murray are being invited to help shape the region’s transport future, with the Minns Labor Government today releasing a draft 20-year blueprint for roads, public transport and freight.

The draft Riverina Murray Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan sets out a long-term vision for the region, identifying 51 potential short, medium and long-term initiatives designed to improve safety, connectivity and transport choice while supporting future population growth and changing community needs.

For the first time in more than a decade, Riverina and Murray communities can help shape a single integrated transport plan for their region.

The draft Plan has been informed by more than 550 pieces of community feedback and over 20 written submissions. Developed in consultation with local councils, Members of Parliament and community groups, it builds on previous planning work and is now being released for broader community feedback.

The Riverina Murray SRTIP is one of nine plans being developed across regional NSW as part of the Minns Government’s commitment to improving transport infrastructure and services across the state.

Key directions of the draft Plan include:

• improving access to jobs, education, healthcare, recreation and Country for Aboriginal communities
• enhancing access to local, regional, metropolitan and cross-border destinations
• upgrading transport networks and improving services to support future growth
• improving freight efficiency and productivity
• creating a safer and more resilient road network.

The Minns Government is now calling on the community to have their say.

Community members can view the draft SRITP and provide feedback until 11:59pm Friday 11 September by visiting https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/sritp/riverina-murray. A community survey has been designed to make it easy to provide feedback on key themes and initiatives proposed in the plan.

More detailed submissions are also welcome and can be sent to engage.sritps@transport.nsw.gov.au or posted to PO Box 484, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650.

During the consultation period, Transport for NSW representatives will visit communities across the Riverina and Murray at a series of pop-up sessions to answer questions and hear directly from locals.

Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison:

“The people who know the Riverina and Murray best should be able to help shape its transport future, and that’s exactly what this draft Plan is designed to do.

“This is about using local knowledge to make it easier for people to get to work, school, healthcare and see family, while strengthening freight links that keep our economy moving.

“We’ve listened to hundreds of people already, and now we’re inviting everyone across the Riverina and Murray to have their say before the plan is finalised.”

Labor Spokesperson for Murray, Bob Nanva MLC:

“This is an excellent opportunity for locals in Riverina and Murray to have a say in how transport is planned and built to better service their daily lives.

“As communities change and grow, it is important that connectivity grows with them and for them, to ensure that their transport needs remain accessible.”

Leichhardt Oval is set for its biggest transformation in decades, with the Minns Labor Government approving a major redevelopment that will secure the future of one of Sydney’s great suburban sporting venues.

The project is jointly funded with $20 million from the Albanese Labor Government, $10 million from the Minns Labor Government and $10 million from Inner West Council.

A rugby league stronghold since the 1930s and home of the Wests Tigers, Leichhardt Oval known by locals as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’, will be transformed with new grandstands, modern facilities and improved amenity for players and fans, while continuing to serve as a hub for grassroots sport in Sydney’s Inner West.

The redevelopment, delivered by Inner West Council will keep Leichhardt Oval firmly in the mix as a venue for men’s and women’s NRL and A-League fixtures, while giving local clubs, pathways programs and the next generation of athletes a facility to match their ambition.

Key upgrades include:

• Renovation of the historic western grandstand with new seating
• Modern hospitality and media facilities
• Four NRL compliant female friendly change rooms
• A new northern grandstand
• Replacement of seating in the lower bowl

Construction is expected to kick off following the 2026 NRL season, with the upgraded ground on track for completion ahead of the 2028 season kick off.  

The project is expected to generate approximately 130 construction jobs.

For more information, including full project details, visit the NSW Planning Portal.  

Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese said:

“This is exactly the kind of investment that keeps community sport strong.  

“Leichhardt Oval has been part of the fabric of Sydney’s Inner West for generations and this funding means it stays that way for generations to come.”

Federal Minister for Sport, Anika Wells said:

“Leichardt Oval has a rich history and is full of memories for so many people.  

“This investment secures the future of Leichardt Oval and makes it a better place for everyone, from the grassroots to the elite level of men’s and women’s sport.”  

NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully said:

“We listened to what people told us during the community exhibition and the result is a design that upgrades the facilities but keeps fans close to the action which is always the best way to watch footy.

“This approval means work can kick off to deliver a facility that respects the history of this ground, scoring points for fans and players alike with modernised facilities.”

NSW Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper said:

“We’re backing Leichhardt Oval so it can continue to be one of Australia’s great suburban sporting grounds.

“From packed hill crowds to unforgettable moments, Leichhardt Oval has earned its place in the hearts of fans, but it’s also a thriving community asset and a venue where women’s and grassroot sport continue to flourish.

Federal Member for Sydney, Tanya Plibersek said:

“Leichhardt Oval is one of Sydney’s most loved sporting grounds, and these upgrades will make sure it continues to be for years to come.  

“This project that means so much to the people of the Inner West. I am excited to see work kick off soon.”

State Member for Summer Hill, Jo Haylen said:

“This is a huge win for the Inner West.  

“Local clubs, junior athletes and Tigers fans have waited a long time for a ground that matches their passion, and now they are getting it.”

Inner West Mayor, Darcy Byrne said:  

“Today is an important and memorable day for the Inner West following the NSW Government’s formal approval of the Leichhardt Oval renovation.  

“Better than a red-letter day, this is a black-and-gold day for West Tigers fans – their spiritual home has been saved.  

“The oval renovation is bigger than the Tigers and after a long community fight, we can ensure the venue will be safe with better seating and facilities for all sports, including major women’s sporting events.” 

From today pensioners and senior public transport users will no longer have to carry their physical Gold Opal card to access $2.50 capped daily fares or their weekly fare cap, with the Opal 2.0 upgrades now allowing them to tap on with their bank card, phone or smart watch.

Passengers can still use their physical cards if they choose, but can now access the new digital option by opening a Transport Connect account online, adding their Seniors or Pensioner Concession card details and linking it to a credit or debit card.

Impacting up to 800,000 public transport users, this Opal upgrade brings senior passengers into line with other concession passengers, who started accessing these upgrades from mid-April when the rollout began with students, apprentices and job seekers.

Over the past three months, almost 8,000 concession holders have signed up, with Transport for NSW modelling predicting between 30-40 per cent of seniors and pensioners will switch to contactless payments over time.

This upgrade is the first stage of the rollout of Opal 2.0, an overhaul of the NSW public transport ticketing system, which will display real-time information on public transport services including screens on buses for the first time, real-time bus tracking and patronage, a new improved Opal app, improved integrated event ticketing technology and digital Opal cards that can be added to your device.

Opal 2.0 will also see 25,000 new Opal readers installed across rail, metro, bus, light rail and ferries, replacing the familiar machines passengers have “tapped on” to for more than a decade and have now reached their end of life.

With Opal 2.0 contracts now signed, detailed design of the new Opal ticketing and bus technology systems is progressing.

The Minns Labor Government is helping families with the cost of transport to help ease some of the pressure on household budgets.

The weekly toll cap has been lowered to $50 for 12 months and toll admin fees – which cost motorists $60 million last year – have been scrapped.

We’ve also taken $100 off the cost of rego for privately owned vehicles.

Opal fare increases have also been frozen for the next 12 months to help people with the cost of public transport.

Minister for Transport John Graham said:

“This is a great win for hundreds of thousands of Gold Opal travellers who can now access their travel discounts with a swipe of their phone.

“Just because someone’s over 60, it doesn’t mean they don’t embrace new technology. Now concession holders of all ages can access cheap transport fares without having to carry their physical Opal card.

“We also know many of our Gold Opal card holders love using the physical card – and we want to assure them that it isn’t going anywhere.

“Our senior public transport passengers are our biggest group of concession holders by far, so it’s great we’ve been able extend this new technology to them.”

Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said:

“Public transport is a vital service for seniors, helping them to independently travel in a way that is safe, affordable, and accessible.

“This is about making it easier for them to tap on and tap off like everyone else but still be able to access their seniors concession fares of $2.50 a day, and pay no more than $17.50 per week.

“With more Gold Opal passengers using the network than ever before, this exciting upgrade means they now can enjoy the convenience of contactless payments using their bank card, phone, or smart watch and keep their cheap fares.

“I’d encourage seniors to sign up, or ask family or friends to help you, so that even if you don’t have your physical card, you won’t have to forego your discount.”

Transport for NSW Secretary Josh Murray said:

“This is another step forward in the evolution of Opal, delivering advanced contactless payment options and discounts for one of our most important passenger groups.

“It means 970,000 passengers including tertiary and TAFE students, trainees and apprentices and now seniors and pensioners can now tap into the ease of Contactless Concessions and ditch their physical Opal card if that suits them.

“We know seniors and pensioners are enthusiastic patrons of the Opal network and while everyone retains the choice to stick with a physical plastic Opal card, we expect this group to be the latest to switch to digital payments in strong numbers.”

Retired insurance professional Chris Grant said:

“I find myself leaving the house with my wallet less and less these days, and paying for things using the credit card on my phone more and more.

“I even forgot to take my wallet and my Gold Opal card with me the last time I travelled on public transport, which meant I had to pay full fare, so I’ll definitely be using this contactless option from now on.”

Retired medical researcher Cate Green said:

“One day I saw a young woman tap an Opal reader with her smart watch and thought: ‘I’d like to do that!

“I spoke to the stationmaster because I’ve got a smart watch too and he told me I couldn’t do so with a Gold Opal card, which was disappointing – so I’m really happy that I can do that now.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other support services showcased at the session include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said:

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

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

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

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

Member for Canterbury Sophie Cotsis said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Trail includes new plaques at:

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

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

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

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

Minister for Heritage Penny Sharpe said:

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

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

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

Treasurer Daniel Moohkey said:

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

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

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

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said:

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

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

Garry Williams, Freedom Rider said:

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

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

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

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

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

Charles Perkins Jr, Grandson of Charles Perkins said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Export Capability Building Program (ECBP)

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

Communities of Practice (CoP) for Exporters  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other businesses supported include:

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

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

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

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

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said:

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

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

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

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

Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said:

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

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

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

Business Sydney Executive Director Paul Nicolaou said:

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

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

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

PowerStack Energy Chief Executive Officer Michael Bragg said:  

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

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

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

Renovatio Founder Dr Vincent Candrawinata said:  

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

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

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

Apollo Engineering Managing Director Dave Errington said:  

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

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

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

Biointelect Chief Executive Officer Leah Goodman said:  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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