Category: NSW News

The $164 million Jervis Bay Road intersection upgrade will soon reach a major milestone, with the new western roundabout set to open to traffic early next month.

The milestone follows the opening of the new flyover bridge in June and will see motorists begin using the western roundabout and northbound on and off ramps, while restoring the northbound right-turn into Jervis Bay Road that was temporarily closed during construction.

Like the eastern roundabout, the western roundabout will initially open in a smaller configuration, allowing motorists to benefit from the upgrade sooner while work continues on the broader upgrade.

Once complete, the upgraded intersection will make it safer and easier for locals, visitors and freight operators to travel between the Princes Highway and Jervis Bay Road, reducing congestion and delays at one of the South Coast’s busiest intersections.

The project is on track for completion in early 2027, six months ahead of schedule. Work will continue on a new multi-modal transport hub, which includes bus bays, kiss and ride spaces, bike racks and parking spaces.

The $164 million upgrade is jointly funded by the Albanese Labor Government with $100 million and the Minns Labor Government with $64 million.

To prepare for the opening, work will take place over two nights on Sunday 8 and Wednesday 11 November, between 6pm and 7am.

Jervis Bay Road will be temporarily closed between 9pm and 5am on these nights, with detours in place via the Princes Highway, Island Point Road and The Wool Road for motorists travelling to Vincentia, Huskisson and surrounding villages.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

“The Albanese Labor Government is investing in the infrastructure regional communities need, making everyday journeys safer, improving freight connections and supporting growing local economies.

“With the western roundabout about to open, we’re another step closer to delivering a safer, more reliable Princes Highway for the thousands of motorists who use it every day.

“Working with the Minns Labor Government, we’re delivering this important upgrade six month ahead of schedule, meaning South Coast communities will see the benefits sooner.”

NSW Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park:

“People across the South Coast know just how frustrating this intersection can be, particularly during the busy holiday periods when thousands of visitors make their way to our beautiful region.

“This is a major investment in the future of the South Coast, improving connections between our communities and making it easier for visitors to support local businesses.

“It’s fantastic to see another major milestone reached as we move closer to delivering the upgraded intersection our community deserves.”

NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison:

“The Minns Labor Government is getting on with the job of delivering the road infrastructure our regional communities need, and this $164 million upgrade is another example of that commitment.

“With the flyover bridge already open and the western roundabout about to welcome traffic, motorists can see the real progress being made at this busy intersection.

“Once complete, the upgrade will take pressure off this notorious pinch point, improve safety and deliver more reliable journeys for locals, tourists and freight operators.”

Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips:

“I’ve heard from so many locals over the years about the frustration of navigating this intersection, particularly during peak holiday periods.

“That’s why I’ve fought hard for this upgrade, and it’s great to see the Albanese and Minns Labor governments delivering the improvements our community has been calling for.

“Opening the western roundabout is another big step towards making it safer and easier for families, workers and visitors to get where they need to go.”

State Member for South Coast Liza Butler:

“For people living in Huskisson, Vincentia and the surrounding Bay and Basin communities, this intersection is a vital connection to work, school, shops and essential services.

“The opening of the western roundabout will restore an important turning movement and bring us closer to a much safer and more efficient journey for local motorists.

“I know construction has caused disruptions, and I want to thank our community for their patience as we deliver an upgrade that will make a real difference for years to come.”

State Member for Kiama Katelin McInerney:

“Our South Coast communities deserve roads that are safe, reliable and able to keep pace with the growing number of people who live in and visit our region.

“This upgrade will make a real difference for motorists travelling along the Princes Highway, particularly during the busy summer months when traffic volumes increase.

“It’s exciting to see this project progressing towards completion ahead of schedule, and I thank the workers who are helping deliver this important infrastructure for our region.”

The Minns Labor Government is delivering greater transparency for homebuyers and more clarity for real estate agents with the commencement of new underquoting laws this month.

Underquoting occurs when a property is advertised at a price below an agent’s reasonable estimate of its selling price. It can waste buyers’ time and money and create a false impression about what a property is worth.

From 17 November, real estate agents will be required to comply with the first tranche of reforms to restore confidence in the property market. This includes:

• Adding a selling price or price range in residential property advertisements – the days of “price on inquiry” will be over.
• Making sure buyers know accurate pricing by requiring online ads to be updated within one business day if a displayed price no longer complies with the law. For example, if the estimated selling price is revised, a written offer is rejected because it’s too low or the property is passed in at auction.
• Using the three most comparable sales when setting or revising an estimated selling price.
• Keeping detailed records showing how an estimated selling price was determined.
• Increasing penalties for underquoting up to $110,000 or three times an agent’s commission, whichever is greater.
• Retaining agency agreements electronically.

The reforms build on changes introduced earlier this year, which:

• Doubled penalties for businesses that engage in dummy bidding to $110,000.
• Strengthened NSW Fair Trading’s enforcement and disciplinary powers.

From 8 February 2027, agents will also be required to prepare a Statement of Information which explains how an estimated selling price was determined, including details of comparable sales used to support the price guide.

The Statement of Information will need to be available alongside online advertising and at property inspections, giving buyers access to more information before making one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.

With around 150,000 property transactions taking place each year in NSW, these reforms will help buyers better understand whether a property is within their budget.

These laws, their regulations and their timing have been developed following extensive consultation with industry stakeholders.

This is all part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to create a fairer, more transparent property market for everyone.

Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions people make, and we know how overwhelming it can. Buyers deserve clear and reliable information when deciding what they can afford, so that they’re not wasting their time or their hard-earned money.

“That’s why the Minns Labor Government has delivered important reforms to put the hammer down on underquoting and stop homebuyers being taken for a ride.

“Together with the tougher penalties and the regulator’s increased powers, we’re confident these reforms will make a real difference in people’s lives and create a fairer property market.”

The Minns Labor Government today announces that the new Armed Response Command (ARC) has commenced operations, delivering a permanent, highly trained policing capability to rapidly respond to serious threats and help keep our communities safe.

ARC officially becomes operational today (Sunday 1 November 2026), following months of intensive recruitment, specialist training and a final week of operational readiness exercises.

Backed by a $94.3 million investment, ARC was established following the devastating terrorist attack at Bondi last December, which reinforced the need for a permanent and dedicated capability to identify and respond to serious threats and incidents.

ARC will provide a high-visibility, intelligence-led specialist command with rifle capability, rapid response vehicles and highly trained officers to respond to high-risk incidents and identified threats.

From today, the community can expect to see ARC officers deployed across Sydney, conducting high-visibility patrols at priority locations, major events, crowded public spaces, sporting venues and places of worship.

Officers will travel in purpose-built vehicles fitted with secure firearm storage and carry specialist equipment, including locally made Australian Combat Assault Rifles (ACARs).

At the centre of the new Command is the dedicated ARC Operations Centre, a 24/7 intelligence room supporting officers on the ground with real-time information, threat assessments and deployment coordination.

ARC will initially operate alongside Operation Shelter, which was established in October 2023 in response to heightened community tensions, including a rise in antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents.

As ARC assumes greater operational responsibility, Operation Shelter will gradually scale down while maintaining a coordinated and visible police presence.

At full strength, ARC will comprise 250 police officers and 28 civilian intelligence analysts and support staff.

Officers have undergone intensive, specialist training over the past six months ahead of today’s official launch. Training has included rifle proficiency, active armed offender response, advanced driver training and tactical medical care.

The establishment of ARC forms part of the Minns Labor Government’s broader work to strengthen community safety and social cohesion across NSW.

Other major reforms by the NSW Government to improve public safety and protect the community include:

• Reducing the number of guns in circulation through tougher firearms laws, stricter licensing requirements and participation in the National Gun Buyback Scheme.
• Passing major legislative reforms to crack down on serious and organised crime.
• Introducing new offences prohibiting the public display of terrorist organisation symbols.
• Taking further action to address hateful speech, intimidation and division in the community.
• Strengthening the NSW Police Multicultural Liaison Officer program with funding for an additional 30 officers.
• Investing in police retention and recruitment.

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley said:

“From today, NSW has a permanent, highly trained Armed Response Command ready to respond to serious threats, around the clock.

“This is about backing our police with the capability they need to detect threats early and respond rapidly when the community needs them.

“These officers have undergone intensive specialist training and are equipped with purpose-built vehicles, specialist equipment and the support of a 24 hour live operations centre.

“NSW Police are better equipped than ever to keep the people of NSW safe and this Government will continue backing them with the resources they need to do their job.”

ARC Commander, Detective Superintendent Andrew Evans said:

“Today marks a significant milestone for policing in NSW. After months of planning, recruitment and intensive training, the Armed Response Command will now deliver a permanent capability designed to prevent serious threats and respond quickly when lives are at risk.

“The ARC Operations Centre is a dedicated nerve centre bringing together intelligence, technology and frontline policing to help us identify emerging threats and rapidly deploy our officers where they are needed most.

“I want to reassure the community that this command has been built from the ground up with one overriding purpose – preserving life.

“The tragic events at Bondi demonstrated the devastating consequences when an alleged armed offender attacks innocent people. Since that time, we have looked at international best practice and strengthened our capabilities to prevent another tragedy.

“ARC ensures we have highly trained officers in the right places, with the right equipment, ready to act when seconds matter.”

Seven years after the site was first purchased, Powerhouse Parramatta is counting down the last seven days before its doors open to the public next Saturday, November 7, 2026.

This weekend, Powerhouse Parramatta teams will put their training and detailed preparation into practice, with 3,000 staff, builders, family and friends invited in to help the team put the museum through its paces, testing the new museum building, exhibitions and visitor experience before opening next weekend.

The last of the more than 3,000 objects, including the F1 Rocket, Apollo boilerplate, and Space X debris have been installed. Final testing of audio visuals and interactives, the install of labels, signage and wayfinding are also nearing completion.

Guest services hosts have completed their training, ready to welcome the more than 22,000 visitors registered across next weekend’s opening events. While Western Sydney food producers are working with Simon Sandall and his team to make sure the cafe and restaurant will be ready for opening weekend.

Powerhouse Parramatta will open seven days a week, and during the opening festival, stay open until 9pm from Thursday to Sunday. Monday to Wednesday the museum will open 10am to 5pm.

Sixty-five percent of the opening program events are free, and all people under sixteen years old will receive free entry for all exhibitions.

Tickets are still available for festival events across the opening weekend, and each includes entry to the museum and 4 of its 5 opening exhibitions.

Registration for any of the events during the festival opening and more information is available here.

Task Eternal

• Visitors will adventure through flight and space, admire aviation achievements, explore engineering masterpieces and consider life off earth – and speculate on just how space debris can be 15,000 km off track and turn up in Snowy Monaro region of NSW.
• At the top of the 12-metre tower, visitors are invited to step into James Turrell’s extraordinary installation, Shangri La (Over The Hump). The immersive installation tests the viewers perceptions as the horizon shifts and disappears – echoing the disorienting and transcendent conditions associated with flight and the vastness of space.
• The boilerplate is one of the largest pieces of space hardware of the Apollo era, a major loan from the National Air and Space Museum (NASA).
• Locals can visit the Burramattagal Boomerang, an object created in Parramatta, held by the British Museum in London and returning to Country in Parramatta for this exhibition.

The Mall

• Ubiquitous yet understudied, shopping malls are deeply embedded in our collective urban memory. The Mall explores different parts of Western Sydney’s own history and how the world has been shaped by innovations in our own backyard.
• Visitors will discover familiar or universal items such as the iPhone and cash registers to unlikely or unexpected objects, such as Parra Mall sign and a pair of jeans worn by Steve Jobs. Or iconic Australian brands that speak to youth and identity including Mambo, Hot Tuna, Song for the Mute, Passport and Hard Yakka.
• The Mall will surprise and spark conversations about shared experiences, memories, or things that have become objects of curiosity.

The Dark

• Children and carers alike are invited to leave their phones in their pockets and as they step into a magical, dreamlike otherworld filled with glow in the dark objects, crystal caves, mysterious objects that make sounds, and places in their imaginations.
• Curious eyes will find the smallest and first collected Powerhouse object on display in the Museum in The Dark, a pea specimen from 1882.
• This dynamic and inspiring exhibition has been made specifically for children 4 – 12, but will engage those much older.

Overflow:

• A stunning reflection on water with views of the Parramatta River. Acclaimed filmmaker and Kamilaroi man Ivan Sen documented seven communities across NSW as they care for water country.
• Overflow is grounded in the living principles of Water Country, working with seven Aboriginal organisations to consider the importance and care of salt and freshwater systems throughout NSW.

The Turning:

• British born Es Devlin’s labyrinth of mirrors and light-filled maze will amaze visitors.
• Devlin has designed large-scale shows for artists including Beyonce; Adele; Dr Dre, Kendrick Lamar and Eminem’s 2022 Superbowl performance; and U2’s iconic Sphere experience. Devlin’s works have exhibited at London’s Tate Museum and Design Museum.

Key facts

• More than 400 museum staff have worked over the past three years developing and delivering the five opening exhibitions.
• Across the opening exhibitions there are 3,000 objects on display, including 1,600 from the Powerhouse’s own collection.
• The biggest item is the 8400-kilogram F1 rocket in Task Eternal, the smallest object is the first item from the museum’s own collection – a pea specimen from 1882.
• Powerhouse Parramatta has been delivered on budget and exceeded its $75 million philanthropy target.
• The total $915 million project budget includes:
  • $144 million – Parramatta site, purchased in April 2019
  • $44 million – new Castle Hill storage facility, opened in March 2024
  • $66.9 million – collection digitisation project, completed in 2024
  • $660.1 million – delivery of Powerhouse Parramatta [includes: Architects fees, base build, fit out, exhibition costs, landscaping, public art], opening November 2026

Minister for the Arts, John Graham said:

“When the doors are opened next weekend, this will be a huge boost to access arts and culture across the city, particularly in Western Sydney. We know the demand is there – fifty per cent of the opening weekend registrations are from Western Sydney.

“The final countdown is on and I think it’s safe to say the community of all ages and interests will be delighted.

“I would like to thank the countless teams who have been involved over the past seven years, from the design and planning, construction, curatorial, collection, community collaborations, installation teams – and so many more. It is a huge collective achievement, and one that we will all enjoy.”

Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis said:

“I can’t wait to see the smiles and wonder on children’s faces as they explore the magical place called The Dark. As the doors of the Powerhouse open, visitors will be transported into other worlds – to space, back in time to Roselands Fountain, or into their imaginations.

“Once the word is out, Powerhouse Parramatta will become a must see for every visitor to Sydney and Western Sydney.”

Parliamentary Secretary for the Arts and Member for Granville, Julia Finn said:

“We know there is a lot of excitement for the opening. So many people have been involved over such a long time in getting us here – the opening will be a great celebration for the people of Western Sydney.”

Interim Chief Executive, Abbie Galvin said:

“Powerhouse Parramatta is the testament to the ambition, vision, dedication and hard work of a lot of people over a very long time. We are in the final stretch and the team are facing this final week of preparation with their trademark steadfast professionalism, calm and care.”

Director of Program Clare Holland said:

“The To Do list is getting shorter! All the teams are focused on making sure every part is perfect for opening. I love watching people’s faces as they see parts of the building, or exhibitions for the first time. I know we’re all looking forward to opening the doors next week so everyone can enjoy Powerhouse Parramatta.”

New South Wales will request the Commonwealth, state, and territory governments consider moving back to handwritten writing tests for students in Years 5, 7, and 9, after recent NAPLAN results reinforced a national decline in writing.

The Minns Labor Government’s push for NAPLAN writing tests to return to pen and paper from 2028 will be on the agenda when national Education Ministers meet on Monday, 2 November.

Currently, Year 3 students complete their writing test on paper, while older students sit the test on a computer.

The Minns Labor Government is leading a renewed national focus on handwriting as concerns grow that the prolonged use of technology in schools is having a negative impact on student learning.

Teachers, principals, and parents have already shared their concerns that online testing in primary school does not reflect the fact that most classroom learning takes place offline.

The Minns Labor Government is taking action to address these concerns and ensure an entire generation of students does not miss out on essential educational foundations.

This includes the introduction of limits on the amount of time students spend on screens in NSW public schools, helping curb excessive screen use, improve attention, and lift educational outcomes.

New guidelines recommend a minimum of one hour a day of learning using pen and paper, reflecting strong evidence of the benefits of writing by hand and reading from paper.

These policies build on and complement actions already taken by the Minns Labor Government to reduce reliance on technology and limit distractions, beginning with the ban on mobile phones in 2023 and recent restrictions on take-home assessments for HSC students to combat the use of AI.

The NSW government’s own research fund assessing the impact of screen use on learning found that only around one-third of parents of primary-school aged children indicated that the benefits of using technology outweigh the disadvantages.

Schools that have already adopted a digital-free approach to learning are seeing the benefits flow through to better educational outcomes.

Deputy Premier of New South Wales and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said:

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to ensuring New South Wales students build strong foundational writing skills that will set them up for long-term success.

“The evidence from our classrooms points clearly to the ongoing value of handwriting and its importance for student development and engaging a different way of learning.

“We’re listening to teachers and families who want a sensible, balanced approach to technology use in schools.”

Riverina business Gundagai Lamb has been crowned NSW Exporter of the Year, taking out the top honour at this year’s NSW Export Awards.

Founded by the Barton family, whose involvement in the Australian meat industry spans more than a century, Gundagai Lamb has built a reputation for quality and innovation, exporting its products to global markets while supporting jobs and economic activity in regional NSW.

The business led a strong field of winners at the 2026 NSW Export Awards, which showcase the NSW businesses driving economic growth, creating jobs and taking the state’s products, services and expertise to customers around the world.

Now in its 64th year, the NSW Export Awards recognise the achievements and resilience of NSW exporters, with this year’s program spanning 13 national categories and three NSW categories.

Winners in the national categories progress as finalists for the Australian Export Awards to be held in Canberra on 18 November 2026.

Other winners included RBK Nutraceuticals, which took out the Western Sydney Exporter category. The manufacturer has been producing health and wellness supplements since 1996 and supplies retailers in more than a dozen countries.

Flavourtech won the Regional Exporter category. Established in 1987, the company specialises in aroma recovery, extraction and evaporation technology for the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries and exports to more than 60 countries.

Newcastle-based Pitcrew AI won in the Resources and Energy category for its autonomous heavy-vehicle inspection technology. Its system uses thermal imaging, computer vision and AI to detect potential tyre problems, helping improve safety and reduce downtime. The technology is deployed across Australia, North America, South America, Africa and Asia.

Their success comes as the Minns Labor Government expands support for exporters through a renewed suite of programs being delivered in 2026-27.

For more information about this year’s NSW Export Award winners visit: https://export.org.au/nsw-export-awards.

For more information about the NSW Government’s support for exporters visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/business-and-economy/export-from-nsw.

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“Congratulations to Gundagai Lamb on being named NSW Exporter of the Year, and all of the excellent finalists who have won awards.

“The Minns Labor Government is focused on growing the economy the right way, by backing businesses to expand, invest and create jobs.

“The businesses recognised in these awards are proof that NSW can compete with anyone in the world when we support innovation, ambition and entrepreneurship.

“From the Riverina to Newcastle and Western Sydney, these exporters are putting NSW on the map and driving economic growth in communities across our state.”

Export Council of Australia Chair Dianne Tipping said:

“As Chair of the Export Council, I have the privilege of seeing the dedication and determination that sits behind successful export businesses.

“The organisations recognised through this year’s NSW Export Awards have demonstrated not only excellence in international markets, but the resilience, adaptability and leadership required to succeed in an increasingly complex global environment.

“Their achievements are helping strengthen NSW’s reputation around the world and will undoubtedly inspire other businesses to pursue their own export ambitions.”

Gundagai Lamb CEO Will Barton said:

“We are a family-owned and operated business from Gundagai, proudly exporting our lamb to major cities around the world.

“Gundagai Lamb has never stood still, constantly innovating to change how lamb is measured and valued, ensuring it earns its place on tables across the globe.

“The Export Awards are an opportunity to tell our story beyond the farm gate, showcasing how innovation, quality and a commitment to excellence have helped us build markets and relationships around the world.”

RBK Nutraceuticals Managing Director David Mumford said:

“We really appreciate the strong and ongoing support we receive from Investment NSW, particularly the opportunities to participate in major international trade exhibitions and programs.

“With the challenges all exporters are facing, this support makes a real difference, helping RBK build valuable business relationships, develop new markets and continue growing internationally.”

Flavourtech CEO Leon Skaliotis said:

“For more than a decade, the NSW Export Awards have provided Flavourtech with a platform to tell our story and celebrate the success of regional NSW manufacturing.

“They have allowed us to demonstrate that innovative food and beverage technology developed, engineered and produced in regional NSW can compete on the world stage and earn the trust of customers in more than 60 countries.”

Pitcrew AI CEO Tim Snell said:

“The NSW Export Awards provide an opportunity to tell our story.

“What began with a small team in the NSW Hunter developing solutions to reduce heat-related failures in tyres, brakes and bearings has grown into an export success, helping improve safety and reliability for heavy vehicle fleets on five continents.”

After years of planning and construction, combined with endless patience from commuters, the final touches are being put on Southwest Metro with passenger services from Bankstown beginning tomorrow morning.

More than two years since the heavy rail line closed, there is now less than 24-hours until the historic first passenger service departs Bankstown Station at 4.31am, marking the start of the fully integrated metro service along the 66-kilometre M1 North West and Bankstown Line.

The Southwest Metro is a world first engineering achievement in retrofitting a 130-year-old heritage heavy rail line with fully automated driverless metro technology.

It sets a global precedent by integrating modern screen doors and custom mechanical gap fillers across a legacy corridor, combined with highly complex curved platforms.

Train enthusiasts and members of the local community are expected to turn out in force in the early hours of the morning to be among the first passengers on the new Southwest Metro.

With the major transformation of all 10 stations between Sydenham and Bankstown complete, and the project receiving approval from the independent Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator to commence passenger services, crews have been focused on the finer details to make sure the trains, stations and surrounding precincts are looking their best for opening day.

This includes preparation of Train Set 29, which will carry the first metro passengers on the Southwest line on opening day. It is the same train set that carried the first passengers from Sydenham on opening day on 19 August 2024.

Ahead of its next journey, the six-car train is today getting the opening day treatment.

That starts with a trip to the automatic train cleaner, a drive-through washing facility similar to a large automated car wash, that will use automated brushes and cleaning systems to remove dirt, dust and grime. Crews will then complete additional cleaning of the doors and front window, before beginning a deep clean of the train’s interior including the seats, walls and floors.

The decal stickers and onboard maps will be updated to show the metro now travelling through the Southwest stations to Bankstown.

The last stop for Train Set 29 is a full mechanical check. The team will inspect the wheels, suspension, brakes, doors, air conditioning and passenger information and communication systems to make sure it’s ready to welcome the first passengers on board at Bankstown.

Across the Southwest corridor more than 200 hours of deep cleaning has been completed alongside removing temporary fencing and installing new wayfinding signage and updated maps.

More than 6300 workers have delivered the transformation of the historic 130-year old railway line, bringing the stations up to modern metro standards while retaining important heritage features.

Upgrades include refurbished station buildings, resurfaced platforms, upgraded toilets, more than 2,000 new wayfinding signs, 790 CCTV cameras,145 passenger information displays, 360 platform screen doors and 170 mechanical gap fillers.

All Southwest stations are now accessible by lift, with five new lifts installed at Wiley Park, Dulwich Hill, Hurlstone Park, Punchbowl and Canterbury Stations.

New and improved public spaces along the corridor include shared paths, landscaping, seating and plazas designed to provide safer and more welcoming connections between stations and surrounding communities.

The MetroWay shared path, that will run the length of the corridor, is currently in procurement and will revolutionise active transport for local communities.

From tomorrow, Southwest communities will be directly connected into the existing M1 North West and Bankstown Line with faster, more reliable and more frequent services, including:

• Marrickville to Gadigal: 12 minutes – saving 12 minutes
• Bankstown to Central: 28 minutes – saving 6 minutes
• Campsie to Macquarie University: 44 minutes – saving 17 minutes
• Lakemba to Victoria Cross: 37 minutes – saving 24 minutes

Transport Minister John Graham said:

“The people of southwest Sydney have been incredibly patient throughout this process, and that patience is about to be rewarded. Tomorrow morning, your new Metro hits the track.

“There is an enormous amount of work that goes into preparing a new Metro line for passengers, right down to the smallest details, and today this train is getting the royal treatment before its historic journey.

“It is very fitting that Train Set 29, which carried the first passengers on the opening day service from Sydenham in 2024, will once again carry the first passengers through southwest Sydney.”

Member for Summer Hill, Jo Haylen said:

“Inner westies are so excited to say goodbye to the pink buses and say hello to the new Metro as we count down the final hours until opening.

“Our stations have had the ultimate makeover, and they’ve never looked better. They have new lifts, new signs and freshly cleaned platforms, with the heritage charm still front and centre.

“A huge thank you to the thousands of workers who brought this 130-year-old line into the 21st century, and to locals for their understanding along the way.

“Southwest Metro will transform how we get around our city and we can’t wait to get on board tomorrow.”

Member for East Hills, Kylie Wilkinson MP said:

“I want to thank Premier Chris Minns, Minister for Transport John Graham and the thousands of workers who have worked tirelessly to get the Southwest Metro ready for passengers. I also want to thank my community for their patience throughout the work to deliver this new service. It’s almost time to get on board, enjoy the journey, and celebrate a new chapter for public transport in southwest Sydney.”

Member for Canterbury Sophie Cotsis said:

“In less than 24 hours, the lives of people in the inner south-west are going to change – for the first time ever, they’ll be able to travel directly to northern Sydney.

“This new line opens up so many opportunities for people across the inner south-west providing direct access to places of work and education, and it means that people from Northern Sydney can now come straight down to the inner-west and experience the diverse range of food and experiences on offer.

“It’s taken a lot of work to get to this point, and I want to thank everyone for their patience – from the commuters who have endured the pink buses for the past two years to the business owners and staff who are about to have people from right across Sydney on their doorstep.”

Member for Strathfield, Jason Yat-sen Li said:

“This is a huge win for our local communities. The Southwest Metro will make it easier for people to get to work, study and visit family, and it will unlock better connections across the Inner West.

“More frequent trains, simpler transfers at Campsie and Sydenham, and upgraded station precincts mean safer, more convenient journeys for commuters and other users. I’m proud this project delivers real, everyday improvements for local residents.”

Member for Bankstown Jihad Dib said:

“Members of my community are telling me what a massive difference the Metro will make to small businesses in the area and they’re getting ready for the benefits that it will bring. I’d urge people across Sydney to come and enjoy all that the Bankstown community has to offer.”

Sydney Metro Chief Executive Camilla Drover said:

“It’s Metro eve, and there’s a real sense of pride across the project. After years of planning, construction and testing, we’re just one sleep away from opening this transformational railway for Sydney.

“We can’t wait to welcome our inner and southwest community members on board and thank them for the patience and support they’ve shown as we delivered this city-shaping project.

“We’re expecting thousands of journeys on day one and will be closely monitoring the network as customers experience their new metro services. Our staff will be on hand across stations and trains to help passengers and answer any questions along the way.”

The Minns Labor Government is officially opening the upgraded Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital today as part of its $440 million redevelopment, delivering expanded, world-class facilities for the Illawarra and South Coast community.

The modern and purpose-built acute services building is the centrepiece of the redevelopment and is now serving the Shoalhaven.

The new seven-storey building will include an expanded emergency department, double the number of operating theatres and procedure rooms, along with a new rooftop helipad.

The major upgrade will transform healthcare for the growing region for decades to come, allowing Shoalhaven and South Coast communities access to treatment closer to home.

The new acute services building includes:

• a new emergency department and emergency short-stay unit
• a new intensive care unit
• medical wards
• a dedicated acute mental health unit
• double the number of operating theatres, endoscopy and procedure rooms
• a dedicated cardiology inpatient unit, coronary care unit and cardiac catheterisation laboratory
• a new medical imaging unit, including MRI and CT machines
• a new rooftop helipad

The new building connects directly to the existing hospital via a new linkway.

Services from the new and expanded emergency department commenced at 8am yesterday.

The Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital will also be home to one of the most advanced hospital pharmacies in NSW, with the installation of a pharmacy dispensing robot – the first of its kind in a regional NSW hospital.

Working alongside pharmacy teams, this technology supports medications being stored, selected and supplied with greater accuracy and efficiency, freeing up clinicians to spend more time on direct patient care.

Over the coming months, the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District will continue the staged transition of services into the new building, including the psychiatric emergency care centre, acute and non-acute mental health services and new cardiology services.

Following the transition of services into the acute services building, the next phase of the redevelopment will focus on refurbishing existing hospital facilities.

The official opening follows years of planning and construction and comes as Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital celebrates 75 years of caring for the local community.

The redevelopment forms part of the more than $1 billion investment from the Minns Labor Government towards health infrastructure across the Illawarra & South Coast region, including:

• $828.9 million for the new Shellharbour Hospital.
• $330.0 million for the Eurobodalla Regional Hospital redevelopment.
• $220.0 million for the Wollongong Hospital and Health Precinct.

Recruitment and retention of health staff for the new facilities have also been supported with the Government’s $200 million Key Health Worker Accommodation Program, which saw the purchase of nine townhouses in Bomaderry last year.

The former Liberal government devastated the health system, creating a wages cap, higher wait times and planned to privatise six of NSW’s public hospitals, including Shellharbour. The Minns Government is delivering more staff, more beds and more hospitals for the Illawarra and South Coast – and will continue to protect them from privatisation.

Investment in the South Coast

The Minns Labor Government has a strong record of delivering essential infrastructure on the South Coast, without privatising public assets.

After more than a decade of neglect under the former government, this Government is upgrading schools, hospitals and delivering critical road and transport projects the region needs.

A re-elected Minns Labor Government will deliver the largest single Illawarra rail investment in generations, committing $6.8 billion to the South Coast Rail Plan, including to electrify the Kiama to Bomaderry service.

The NSW Government is also delivering on our commitment to deliver Calderwood Public School and extend the Tripoli Way, a project neglected by the former government, which will ease congestion through Albion Park and Calderwood.

Major upgrades to Ulladulla High School and Milton Primary School are also ahead of schedule, and nine new fee-free public preschools are under construction.

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

“We are delivering a world-class hospital for the Shoalhaven and recruiting more health workers across the South Coast.

“More procedures will be performed locally, and more people will receive care locally.

“We’ve made real progress rebuilding essential services across the Illawarra and South Coast, but we know there is more to do.

“We promised to redevelop the Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital and we have.

“And that’s how you know we will deliver on our promise to electrify the Kiama to Bomaderry train service.”

Minister for Health and Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park said:

“These new facilities at Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital will be an absolute game changer for health access in the region, I’m absolutely thrilled to see the Acute Services Building now officially open for patients.

“With emergency care through to cardiology, critical care and medical imaging, this redevelopment has been shaped to meet the needs of this growing community now and into the future.

“Investment in recruitment and health worker accommodation has played a critical role in this project, it’s excellent to see the 120 additional health staff starting with us this week.

“For too long, our region was neglected by the Coalition. The Minns Government is delivering more hospitals, more beds, more staff and more services, it’s a very exciting day for the South Coast.”

Member for the South Coast Liza Butler said:

“This is an incredibly proud moment for our community. The opening of the new Acute Services Building means local families can access more of the care they need close to home, with modern facilities that will serve the Shoalhaven for generations to come.

“From the expanded emergency department to dedicated cardiac services and new medical imaging facilities, this investment will make a real difference to patients and their families, while giving our hardworking hospital staff the facilities they deserve.

“I make no apologies for fighting for better health services for the South Coast. Seeing the doors open on this $440 million redevelopment is a significant milestone, and I will continue advocating for the services our growing community needs.

“Thank you to our dedicated hospital staff, the construction teams and everyone who has helped bring this redevelopment to life. As Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital celebrates 75 years of caring for our community, we are opening a wonderful new chapter in its history.”

Member for Kiama Katelin McInerney said:

“Our community has waited a long time for this moment, this historic uplift means fewer patients transferred to Wollongong and Sydney, and more families getting vital care closer to home, surrounded by the people they love.

“I am so proud to be part of a government that is not only delivering significantly expanded services at Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital, but is also investing in the staff we need and key worker housing for them; with 48 additional nurses hired since the start of the year, 20 more on the way, new clinicians and doctors coming on board, and barriers to recruitment coming down through the first Key Health Worker Accommodation Program townhouses in Bomaderry and the $35 million Bomaderry Built to Rent partnership with Landcom delivering 60 homes for our essential workers.”

The Minns Labor Government is bringing back the popular Rural Women’s Network Skills Roadshow, with an investment of $60,000 for eight more regional locations to host the free workshops.

Delivered in partnership with St John Ambulance NSW, nearly 400 regional, rural and remote women have taken part in the training since it began in 2025.

The free accredited mental health and first aid training will return to communities across the state in late 2026 and to June 2027.

The sixteen workshops aim to help women build practical skills to assist their families, workplaces and communities.

The next round of the Roadshow is expected to reach up to 240 women with dates for the 2026 Roadshow confirmed for:

• Forster – 6 and 7 November 2026
• Nowra – 13 and 14 November 2026
• Armidale – 27 and 28 November 2026.

Dates for the 2027 locations will be announced as they are confirmed:

• Tweed Heads
• Queanbeyan
• Grafton
• Gunnedah
• Orange.

The workshops are accessible and include skills to respond effectively in emergency situations, recognise mental health issues, spot situations where people may be in imminent crisis, provide appropriate interventions and learn where to direct people for further support.

This is part of the Minns Labor Government’s ongoing effort to expand opportunities for regional, rural and remote women to build skills, strengthen connections and increase participation. It includes free regional wellbeing workshops in partnership with Rural Adversity Mental Health Program, the Investing in Women Grants program and the Rural Women’s Gathering.

The Rural Women’s Network Skills Roadshow includes a full-day workshop for both First Aid and Mental Health in each location.

Registrations will open today for Forster, Nowra and Armidale.

To find out more and register go to nsw.gov.au/rwn-roadshow.

Minister for Regional New South Wales Tara Moriarity said:

“Knowing first aid can literally be the difference between life and death, and in regional and rural communities, where help can be further away, women are often the first on the scene.

“Nearly 400 women have already taken part, and it’s great to see this training heading to even more communities, including Forster, Nowra and Armidale.

“It’s not just about physical injuries either. This program gives women the skills to recognise and respond to someone experiencing a mental health problem or crisis, until professional help is available.”

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

“Women in regional and rural communities play an important role in supporting the people around them.

“This training gives women practical skills and recognised qualifications that can help them respond when someone needs support whether it is during an emergency or if they are experiencing mental health challenges.

“By bringing free training directly to communities, the Minns Labor Government is making it easier for women to access opportunities that may not otherwise be available close to home.”

St John Ambulance NSW Acting CEO, Vanessa Lorford-Smith, said:

“With nearly 400 women taking part since the Roadshow began, it’s clear there is a real appetite for this training in regional and rural NSW. Taking the program to eight communities across the state means even more women will gain the First Aid and Mental Health skills to step in when it matters most.

“This continued investment reflects a shared commitment to equipping regional and rural women with practical, recognised skills thar benefit not only them, but their wider communities.

“When women feel confident and prepared, whether at home, at work or in their local community, the whole region is stronger and better.”