Category: NSW News

The historic Grafton Rowing Club Boatshed is once again a sparkling centrepiece on the banks of the Clarence River with the restoration of the 143-year-old building officially open as part of the city’s annual regatta.

Grafton Rowing Club was awarded $3.76 million from the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund, which is jointly funded by the Albanese and Minns Government through the Disaster Recovery Fund Arrangements. A co-contribution was also provided from the Grafton Rowing Club for the restoration.

The redevelopment features a covered public viewing deck with an adjoining café and function room, complete with kitchenette and bathroom facilities.

The café and deck complement the new waterfront footpath and adjoining Memorial Park, creating a vibrant and welcoming space for the community.

The stunning river views can be captured from the multi-purpose function room, while upgrades to the lower-level Rowers Boathouse and new flood-mitigation measures enhance both functionality and resilience.

The new upper-level facilities have been designed outside the 1-in-100-year flood zone, ensuring long-term flood protection and usability.

Other resilience works include the levelling of floors to allow easier cleaning after a flood and installation of a new flexible boat racking system which allow boats to be stored during moderate flood events.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain:

“This restored boatshed shows how disaster recovery funding can help protect local heritage while giving the community a stronger, more resilient space to come together on the Clarence River.

“By pairing modern floor mitigation measures with new community facilities, this project supports Grafton’s recovery in a way that keeps people safe while enhancing daily life along the waterfront.

“Investments like this ensure that recovery delivers long term benefits, with infrastructure that preserves local history, boosts recreation and stands up to future natural disasters.”

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty:

“Grafton Rowing Club, established in 1882, has a proud history and continues to play an integral role within the Grafton community.

“The redevelopment of the historic Boatshed has delivered modern rowing facilities, a covered public viewing deck, café and multi-purpose function room, all offering exceptional views of the Clarence River.

“These enhancements support rowing and other sporting events while providing a versatile community space for gatherings, meetings and celebrations.

“The restoration reinforces the club’s ongoing commitment to the community and ensures this historic site remains a vibrant social and sporting landmark for generations to come.”

Minister for NSW North Coast Janelle Saffin:

“We are building back better where we can to help create more resilient communities.

“Facilities like this Boatshed are critical for bringing communities together and creating recreational opportunities. It’s great to see it restored better than ever.”

Rowing Australia Sport Development Manager Ron Batt:

“Rowing Australia is fully committed to fostering and enhancing the sport of rowing across the nation and we believe that the new Boatshed will not only benefit the Grafton Rowing Club, but also the broader rowing community in Australia.

“Rowing Australia fully support the concept of the Grafton Rowing Club becoming a regional rowing centre of excellence, a place where athletes from all background can thrive and achieve their full potential in rowing”.

Grafton Rowing Club President Michael Collins:

“Grafton Rowing Club is very grateful to the Australian and NSW Governments for supporting this incredible initiative.

“We are proud to partner with the government in supporting the Grafton community, building resilience and positive engagement in response to our recent natural disasters.

“The club is proud of its rowing heritage and continues to enhance the sport of rowing for both beginners and the elite, of all ages and with any experience. We offer weekly school sport rowing, learn-to-row programs, social rowing and full-scale competitive rowing.

“We are thrilled to open our new facility, to support and enrich the locals and visitors alike, as well as broadening the opportunities of all rowing enthusiasts in the area”.

Flood-affected homeowners across the Central West are encouraged to apply for the Resilient Homes Program before 31 March 2026, in time for the full closure by end of June 2027.

This is the last opportunity for eligible residents to access support that can help them rebuild stronger and better protect their homes against future floods.

Eligible homeowners may receive up to $100,000 to raise, rebuild or relocate homes or up to $50,000 to retrofit properties using flood-resilient materials. An additional $20,000 may be available to help cover upfront planning and consultant costs.

Since the Program launched in late 2024, more than 300 homeowners across Cabonne, Forbes, Lachlan, Parkes and Euabalong have applied for assistance. To date, 243 tailored home assessments have been completed, 11 voluntary buyback offers have been issued in the highest-risk areas, and a number of homeowners have received reimbursement for resilient works already undertaken.

Dedicated support is available through the Resilient Homes Program’s Customer Engagement Team, which can assist with eligibility advice, grant applications, next steps following assessment reports received and guidance on planning and construction. Homeowners can also speak directly with staff, experts and builders at upcoming expos, information sessions and community pop-ups or via phone on 1800 844 085.

Residents can also visit the program office at 45 Broad Street, Eugowra on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

The Resilient Homes Program is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments as part of the $100 million Central West Recovery and Resilience Package.

More information on how to apply can be found via https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/nsw-reconstruction-authority/our-work/resilient-homes-program

NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said:

“This community has been through so much and I understand just how long the road back has felt for so many families.

“This Program has already helped hundreds strengthen their homes and reduce the impact of future floods.

“As we enter this final application stage, I want to make sure every remaining eligible homeowner has the chance to access the support they need to move forward with confidence.

“This is about giving people choices and helping families protect what matters most. If you haven’t applied yet, please reach out, we are here to help.”

Member for Orange Phil Donato MP said:

“The Resilient Homes Program has been a vitally important component in the government’s suite of recovery and resilience measures, following the devastating 2022 Central West Flood event.

“This program is now reaching maturity, with flood-impacted residents starting to receive the funded resilience measures.

“For those flood-impacted home owners who have not yet made an application for support measures offered through the Resilient Homes Program, I would urge them to do so before the deadline on  31^st March 2026.

“I want to acknowledge the NSW Government and the NSW Reconstruction Authority for their support in the ongoing recovery of our flood impacted communities.”

NSW Reconstruction Authority Director, Central West, Orana and Far West Ken Harrison said:

“We know this has been a long and often difficult journey for many people. Our priority is making sure homeowners have the information and support they need to complete their applications and, where eligible, begin works or settlement.

“The sooner people check in with us, the sooner we can help them move forward.”

The State’s reputation as a global tech hub was confirmed today with the announcement from OpenAI that NSW will be home to the Asia Pacific’s first OpenAI for Countries initiative with a $7 billion data centre in Sydney.

The Minns Labor Government is working hard to cement NSW as the nation’s capital for innovation and the state’s status as a globally attractive investment destination. NSW is already a leader in data centres and technology infrastructure and the state is going from strength to strength.

Data centres are critical infrastructure to support NSW’s booming digital economy so the Minns Labor Government welcomes the proposal from OpenAI and data centre provider NEXTDC to establish the $7 billion data centre facility in Eastern Creek.

This announcement comes only days after OpenAI officially opened their first Australian office in Sydney.

NSW is also one of the top jurisdictions in the world for number of data centres with over 90 already in operation and another 20 under assessment.

These opportunities for supporting innovative businesses through skills development, local innovation and AI adoption are key examples of the NSW Industry Policy, NSW Innovation Blueprint and NSW Trade and Investment Strategy in action.

Together, these developments deliver on the NSW Government’s commitment to supporting AI infrastructure that is responsible and supports workers across the state.

Crucially, they will provide significant economic opportunities, strengthen STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) development pathways and accelerate job growth across key sectors including manufacturing.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said:

“Sydney is Australia’s digital capital, backed by world-class talent and strong government investment – and OpenAI’s arrival here takes that even further.

“In the years ahead, thousands of businesses will run smarter, be more competitive and innovative because some of the world’s most advanced tech is calling New South Wales home.

“Big private investments like this today are how we create jobs and grow the economy tomorrow.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Acting Minister for Innovation,Science and Technology, Paul Scully said:

“That OpenAI has chosen NSW as the first base in Asia Pacific cements the state as a global technology player.

“NSW is establishing itself as one of the top jurisdictions in the world for data centres. That’s due to our reputation as a sophisticated tech and financial hub, our drive to increase renewable energy and our skilled workforce which we know attracts these investments and makes them truly sustainable.”

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:

“As a government, NSW is leading the way on the responsible use of AI to harness its potential for good.

“Through our updated AI Assessment Framework and the new Office for AI, we are positioning NSW for a brighter future when it comes to the safe and ethical use of technology to improve public services and support our public sector workforce.”

Minister for Finance Courtney Houssos said:

“This announcement is a testament to the ambitious, forward-looking approach the Minns Labor Government is taking to secure international investment in NSW.

“We want to attract major investment to NSW and we want to see innovation, including AI, used to improve productivity across all industries.”

The NSW Government is issuing a final call for homeowners to apply for support under the Resilient Homes Program, which offers eligible residents the opportunity to have their homes voluntarily bought back or receive funding to repair and strengthen properties against future flooding.

This final round ensures affected households have access to measures that prioritises safety, recovery and long-term resilience.

Buyback applications will close on 31 December 2025. Applications for grants for resilient repairs will close on 31 March 2026, with the Program in its entirety wrapping up by end of June 2027.

Since the program commenced in 2022, more than 1,300 homeowners have been contacted to progress buybacks, with over 930 offers issued, 844 accepted and 732 homes settled to date. All buyback settlements are expected to be completed by June 2026, with relocations to be finalised by the end of 2026.

The Northern Rivers Resilient Homes is the largest climate adaptation program of its kind in Australia. The program is about removing residents from the highest-risk areas while laying the foundation for future land use planning, ensuring high-risk areas are managed more sustainably and that communities are safer in the face of future floods.

Eligible homeowners may receive:

• Up to $100,000 to raise, rebuild or relocate their home
• Up to $50,000 to retrofit their home with flood-resilient materials
• An additional $20,000 to help cover upfront planning and consultant costs

Eligibility settings, for resilient measures grants, have also recently been updated for key areas of Mullumbimby, Tumbulgum, South Lismore, Woodburn, Coraki, Broadwater, Wardell and Murwillumbah. The removal of the previous floor-level requirement for some homes means more homeowners who were severely impacted in 2022 floods may be eligible for support.

Dedicated support is available through the Resilient Homes Program’s Customer Engagement Team, who can assist with eligibility advice, grant applications, next steps following assessment reports and guidance on planning and construction. Homeowners can also speak directly with staff, experts and builders at upcoming expos, information sessions and community pop-ups or via phone on 1800 844 085.

The Resilient Homes Program is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments.

More information on how to apply can be found via https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/nsw-reconstruction-authority/our-work/resilient-homes-program

NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said:

“We’ve come a long way since the floods, and we’ve done it together.

“I know these decisions haven’t been easy. People are weighing up not just finances, but memories, connections and the place they call home.

“This final stage of the program is about making sure every family has the support they need to choose what’s best for them.

“Our community deserves the chance to rebuild safely and with the peace of mind that comes from knowing their future will be stronger.”

NSW Reconstruction Authority Acting Head Adaptation, Mitigation and Reconstruction Kristie Clarke said:

“The Resilient Homes Program has already made a real difference for hundreds of households, helping people progress Buybacks, home assessments and resilience works.

“Our priority is ensuring homeowners have the information and support they need to complete their applications and begin works, giving them the best opportunity to protect their homes and families.”

The Minns Labor Government is continuing its work to rebuild public education across NSW, with construction underway on the much-needed new high school, public school, and public preschool for Wilton.

The new schools will ensure families in this rapidly-growing suburb have access to a world-class public education from preschool to Year 12 after more than a decade of poor planning and broken promises under the Liberals and Nationals.

The new high school is the first high school to be built in Wilton and only the second public high school for Wollondilly, despite the region experiencing substantial housing growth in recent years and a corresponding increase in student numbers.

The new high school will be built in stages, with a three-storey building comprising 12 classrooms opening on Day 1 Term 1 2027, along with a modern library, full-sized sports field, and a sports court.

Additional buildings with modern permanent classrooms, a school hall, vocational education facilities, and two more sports courts will open on Day 1 Term 1 2028, with the school having capacity for 1,000 students.

High school students in Wilton must currently travel up to 16 kilometres to attend Picton High School, which needed new walls installed after the Liberals and Nationals botched an upgrade in 2021 and installed new classrooms without walls at the school.

The public primary school will feature 27 modern permanent classrooms, a library, school hall, and a covered outdoor learning area. The public school will have capacity for 550 students and the co-located public preschool will cater for 120 children per week.

The Minns Labor Government is continuing its work to rebuild public education, delivering a record $9 billion in school infrastructure.

Every new public primary school is being delivered with a co-located public preschool, as part of the Government’s commitment to deliver 100 new public preschools by 2027.

The investment doubles the number of public preschools in the state, the largest expansion of early learning in NSW history.

Once complete up to 9,000 children will benefit from access to fee-free, quality early education in their community, prioritised in areas of the highest need based on a rigorous selection process.

The Minns Labor Government’s work to deliver universal preschool access across the state is in sharp contrast to the Liberals and Nationals, who failed to build a single public preschool during their 12 years in government.

In addition to building new schools where they are needed, the Minns Labor Government’s work to rebuild public education includes ensuring each NSW classroom has a qualified teacher.

Since March 2023, the Minns Labor Government has reduced teacher vacancies by 61 per cent across the state, leading to the number of cancelled classes in NSW nearly halving.

Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos said:  

“The Minns Labor Government is delivering new schools for growing communities across NSW.

“Wilton’s new public preschool, public school, and high school ensure local families will have access to a world-class public education from preschool through to Year 12, close to home.

“The Deputy Premier worked hard to progress these projects, with strong advocacy from the local member, Judy Hannan.”

Independent Member for Wollondilly Judy Hannan MP said:  

“It’s fantastic to see construction begin on these much-needed schools for Wilton, it’s been a long time since the Wollondilly Shire received brand-new infrastructure.

“I’d like to thank the Deputy Premier, Prue Car, for working with me to deliver these schools for my community.

“The Minns Labor Government’s investment means every child in Wilton can access a world-class public education, close to home.”

Wilton new high school principal Hala Ramadan said:

“As foundation principal, my goal is to establish a school culture while acknowledging and honouring the rich cultural heritage of the area.

“Together, we will build a school that not only delivers outstanding academic outcomes, but also prepares young people to lead purposeful, fulfilling lives, grounded in respect, inclusion and shared responsibility.”

Wilton new primary school principal Karen Sellick said:

“It’s a rare and exciting opportunity to establish a new primary school from the ground up.

“I look forward to building an educational setting of excellence, equity and inclusion, together with Hala Ramadan and the Wilton community, to empower all children to reach their potential.”

The Minns Labor Government has unlocked the latest eco-tourism holiday offering with a new $1.9 million campground at Belmont Wetlands in the Lake Macquarie region, giving visitors the option to stay overnight at this iconic destination.   

One hundred campsites nestled close to the sand dunes will be available. Visitors will be able to pitch a tent or pull up their camper trailer beneath the stars and use facilities including two new BBQs, covered seating areas, hot and cold showers and an accessible bathroom. 

A new underground water system has also been installed to service the campground’s water needs and support emergency services in the event of a bushfire. 

An additional $910,000 has been invested to upgrade the reserve’s entrance road and carpark provided by the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund. These upgrades will increase parking capacity, reduce traffic congestion and encourage more people to visit the reserve. Work is planned to commence early 2026. 

Belmont Wetlands was acquired by the NSW Government from BHP in 2002 after sand mining ceased. The beautiful Crown reserve stretches over 554 hectares of bushland, sand dunes and wetlands, providing a haven for walking, bird watching, cycling, surfing, fishing, camping, horse riding and four-wheel driving. 

The wetlands are less than two hours’ drive from Sydney and just over half-an-hour from Newcastle. It makes it the perfect weekend getaway for families and intrepid travellers looking to spend a night camping out in one of NSW’s most diverse natural reserves. 

Minister for Lands and Property, and Tourism Steve Kamper said: 

“The new and upgraded Belmont Wetlands Campground is set to become one of the Hunter region’s standout eco-tourism drawcards. A place that celebrates the natural beauty of NSW and actively boosts local jobs, small businesses, and the visitor economy.”

“With more travellers seeking nature-based experiences, this revitalised campground will encourage longer stays, greater local spending, and stronger support for cafés, shops, tour operators, and accommodation providers right across the region.”

“The Minns Labor Government is focused on building better communities and backing our regions.”

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

“Belmont Wetlands is one of our region’s natural treasures, and these new campgrounds will make it even more accessible for locals and visitors who want to experience it up close.” 

“These new facilities mean families, school groups and travellers can stay overnight at a really affordable price, surrounded by some of the most spectacular coastline and bushland in the state.” 

“The campground will also help create a sustainable future for the park, supporting the incredible volunteers who work so hard to protect this beautiful piece of coastal paradise.” 

Belmont Wetlands Administrator, Nicole Dunn said: 

“The campground offers families a safe, welcoming place to reconnect with nature and each other. It’s the perfect spot to experience the joy of camping, whether it’s a weekend adventure, a first family trip, or a chance for locals to try out their new camping gear close to home.  

“Revenue from the campground will be reinvested to maintain and improve park infrastructure, support conservation efforts, and protect the park’s unique natural environment.” 

In a slam dunk for regional sport, Taree now boasts a state-of-the-art basketball facility with the expansion of the Iron Arena now complete.

The Albanese and Minns Governments have provided $12,979,285 to the Taree Basketball Association from the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund under the jointly funded Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

This significant investment has transformed the former Saxby Stadium into the larger Iron Arena, featuring two new multi-purpose courts suitable for basketball, futsal and other indoor sports.

The spectator experience will be enhanced through upgrades to the seating arrangements, creating a show court capable of hosting major sporting and entertainment events.

This revitalised venue is not only a hub for athletic excellence but also a vital space for promoting health, wellbeing and community connection.

Taree Basketball Association has ambitious plans to host an international team visiting for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

The Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund supports bushfire impacted regions by funding projects that strengthen community resilience and reduce the impact of future natural disasters.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain:

“The expanded Iron Arena shows how disaster recovery funding can deliver lasting community assets that help regions like Manning rebuild stronger, healthier and more connected.

“By transforming the stadium into a modern multi-sport venue, we are supporting Taree’s recovery with facilities that bring people together and create new opportunities for local sport and events.

“Investments like this ensure that recovery is not just about replacing what was lost but also giving communities the chance to grow, thrive and look to the future with confidence.”

Federal Senator for NSW Deborah O’Neill:

“Whether you’re learning to shoot your first hoop, playing at the Olympic level, or coming along to watch a great game, the Iron Arena is a place the whole community can enjoy.”

“This arena shows what can be delivered for regional communities when all levels of government work together.”

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty:

“This is an incredible achievement for Taree and the wider Manning region, a project that shows just how powerful sport can be in bringing people together and building stronger communities.

“The Iron Arena is now a world-class facility that will inspire the next generation of athletes, from kids picking up a basketball for the first time to elite players training for international competition.

“Sport continues to play a powerful role in Taree’s recovery from multiple natural disasters, including this year’s devastating floods.

“As the community rebuilds, sport is helping to restore confidence, create opportunities and bring people together in shared purpose and pride.”

NSW Minister for North Coast Janelle Saffin:

“We are building back better, where we can, to ensure our vital community facilities are more resilient to future disasters.”

“We are investing in our communities too by ensuring they have the recreational facilities they need to stay connected, active and thrive.”

Iron Arena project advocate Steve Atkins:

“The opening of Iron Arena marks a significant step toward achieving our core goals of enhancing health and wellness within our community.

“By encouraging greater participation in sports, we aim to uplift community spirit and strengthen our shared ambition to improve local circumstances.

“In the long term, I am confident this facility will boost the local economy through sports tourism and event-driven growth.”

Wollongong families can look forward to more fee-free early learning as shovels hit the ground on new Public Preschools for Hayes Park Public School and Berkeley West Public School.

The co-located preschools will offer a high-quality play-based early learning program, support childrens’ transition into kindergarten and schooling, as well as ease pick up and drop off for parents with older students at the same school.

In addition to state-of-the-art learning areas, each new preschool will include staff facilities, a kitchen, toilet facilities and landscaped outdoor areas.

Both new public preschools will be open for the first term of the school year in 2027, and will each accommodate up to 80 children per week.

The delivery of both preschools has been fast tracked thanks to the Minns Labor Government’s planning changes which last year scrapped the need for development applications for the construction of new public schools and preschools.

These are among six public preschools that the Minns Labor Government is delivering in the Illawarra by 2027, including Cringila and Lake Heights public schools in the Wollongong electorate, as part of the NSW Government’s $769 million commitment to build 100 new public preschools.

The investment doubles the number of public preschools in NSW, the largest expansion of public early learning in NSW’s history.

Once complete more than 9,000 children will benefit from access to fee-free, high quality early education in their local community. Of the 100 new public preschools, 51 are in metropolitan Sydney and 49 in regional NSW, prioritised in areas of highest need based on an independent selection process.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said:

“It’s great to see work under way to deliver new public preschools for both Hayes Park Public and Berkeley West Public.

“Once complete these preschools will provide fee-free early learning for 160 children, helping hundreds of families each year to access education to give their children the best possible start in life.

“The construction of these preschools are in addition to preschools being delivered at Cringila and Lake Heights public schools.

“These fee free public preschools are a huge boost to local public education and will give our littlest learners a lifelong boost to their education.”

Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos said: 

“The Minns Labor Government is delighted to be kicking off construction on these new public preschools, marking a historic expansion in access to early learning for families across NSW.

“For far too long, families in Western Sydney and Regional NSW had limited access to quality early childhood education, especially public early childhood education. Despite being in government for 12 years, the Liberals and Nationals failed to deliver for them.

“The Minns Labor Government, with the leadership of Deputy Premier Prue Car, made this historic commitment because we strongly believe all children should have access to high-quality early education, no matter their postcode.” 

Berkeley West Public School Principal Andrew Attard said:

“At Berkeley West, we’re incredibly proud to be part of this important investment in early learning. Our new preschool will give local children the very best start—right here on Country.

“This facility is not just about early education; it’s about honouring place, nurturing belonging, and building strong foundations for future learning and wellbeing.”

Hayes Park Public School Principal Lisa Matthes said:

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our families across the Dapto and Kanahooka region to access high quality early learning for their children.

“With the public preschool on school grounds, it will help smooth children’s transition to kindergarten.

“We are very excited about being able to welcome our youngest learners, supporting the beginning of their school journey at our new public preschool.”

As e-bikes surge in popularity across NSW, particularly among teenagers, the NSW Government is introducing measures to improve safety and reduce risk for families.

With around 600,000 households now owning an e-bike, and many more expected to buy one this Christmas, parents are being urged to check that any new device is safe, compliant and appropriate for young riders.

The Government will move to reduce the maximum legal power output of e-bikes in NSW to 250 watts, bringing the state back into line with all other Australian jurisdictions.

This reverses a previous regulatory change that increased the power limit to 500 watts, which has contributed to a wave of high-powered bikes that can be unsafe for children and difficult for parents and police to identify.

The change is aimed at keeping kids safer on roads, bike paths and local streets by reducing access to devices that behave more like electric motorbikes than pedal-assisted bicycles.

The NSW Government is also reviewing the definition of an e-bike in road rules to close loopholes that allow motorcycle-level devices to be sold and ridden as though they are bicycles.

These state changes complement national action. The Commonwealth Government has now committed to reinstating import requirements that ensure e-bikes sold in Australia meet the European safety and quality standard, EN 15194.

This will help keep low-quality, easily modified and dangerous devices out of the country.

The updated rules are expected to take effect within months and will be done in consultation with retailers and the community to ensure a fair transition.

Parents buying an e-bike this Christmas are encouraged to look for:

• A clear EN 15194 sticker or certification
• A motor output of no more than 250 watts
• A reputable brand with proper safety documentation
• A model that has not been modified, “chipped,” or had its speed limiter removed

The Government is also urging parents to talk to their kids about responsible riding: wearing a helmet, not carrying passengers, sticking to bike paths and roads where permitted, and never modifying a device to go faster.

These changes form part of a broader effort to improve safety around e-devices, including new laws introduced to regulate shared e-bike schemes, clean up footpath clutter and ensure shared scheme operators meet strict safety standards.

Minister for Transport John Graham said:

“E-bikes are fantastic for getting kids outside, active and independent but they need to be safe.

“We’re seeing devices on the market that are far too powerful, too easy to modify and too hard for parents to assess.

“This is about making sure the bike your teenager rides behaves like a bike, not a motorbike.

“Our message to parents is simple: check the sticker, check the wattage, and have a conversation with your kids about staying safe.”

Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said:

“Nothing matters more than keeping our kids safe. As more young people jump on e-bikes, we need to make sure every device on our roads and footpaths is safe, legal and fit for purpose.

“Right now we’re seeing too many powerful, modified devices that put riders and everyone around them at risk. These changes are about preventing serious injuries before they happen.

“Road safety is a shared responsibility. Government is tightening standards and cleaning up unsafe behaviour, but we need retailers, parents and riders to help keep our communities safe.”

The Minns Labor Government is getting on with making Western Sydney’s roads safer, awarding a contract to develop a design solution for a notorious section of the M4 Motorway.

The M4 Motorway Coleman Street to Church Street Project will focus on the busy 2.5 kilometre eastbound stretch of the motorway before the tolled section of the motorway at Parramatta.

Transport for NSW has awarded Arup the contract to commence early concept design development for the project to identify safety improvement solutions for this section.

This is being investigated in response to an increase in crashes at the Church Street off ramp following the opening of the M4 Widening Project (Stage 1A of WestConnex).

The Church Street off-ramp is the last exit before the start of eastbound tolling and provides access to the toll-free route along Parramatta Road.

Reviews into this section of road have identified an increase in traffic volumes and safety incidents on approach to the Church Street off-ramp.

Between the review period of 2017 and 2022, there were 307 crashes between Coleman Street and Church Street with 244 of these – or 80 per cent – occurring on the eastbound lanes.

Of these, 45 were serious crashes with four fatalities recorded.

A series of interim measures have been put in place since 2017 along the project area in response to the severity of crashes.

These include the upgrade of the Church Street off-ramp in December 2019 and the upgrade of the Woodville Road, Parramatta Road and Church Street intersection in November 2022.

Additional work has also been carried out on the M4 Motorway on-ramp at Church Street.

This included Smart Motorway ramp metering which was activated in July 2023 to control the flow of traffic entering the motorway from Woodville Road, Church Street and Parramatta Road via the Church Street on-ramp.

Further updates on the M4 Motorway Coleman Street to Church Street Project and community consultation opportunities will be announced as the project progresses next year.

Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said: 

“Our priority is making sure every driver gets home safely.

“This work is about fixing a problem that has been getting worse for years. The Minns Labor Government is taking action now because we refuse to ignore the clear safety risks on this critical section of the motorway.

“We’ve already delivered interim safety measures, but what’s needed now is a long-term, evidence-based solution. By progressing this design work, we are putting safety at the heart of our decision-making and charting a path to reduce crashes, improve traffic flow and future-proof this part of the network.”

Acting Minister for Western Sydney, Courtney Houssos said:

“For too long, this section of the M4 has been a source of frustration and risk for motorists and this milestone marks an inportant step toward a safer, more efficient motorway for Western Sydney.

“The former Liberal National government failed to provide the roads and infrastructure needed to keep up with rapidly growing communities, leaving local families in the lurch for over a decade.

“Today’s announcement is another example of how the Minns Labor Government is building better roads for Western Sydney.”

Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis said:

“I welcome the development of a design solution for the M4 Motorway between Coleman and Church Streets to make the M4 safer for everyone who uses it.

“By tackling the area between Coleman and Church Streets, we are working on a solution to protect lives and improve traffic flow on one of Sydney’s busiest motorways.

“The aim of the M4 Motorway between Coleman Street and Church Street Project is to design a solution that reduces crashes and congestion to make the commute safer for everyone along this busy stretch of the motorway.

“Safer exits, better traffic flow, and fewer delays will benefit families, workers and businesses across the west.”