Category: NSW News

Rural firefighters in NSW are responding faster and safer as a result of new technology which is helping detect fires earlier, improve situational awareness and strengthen communications in remote areas.

AI-powered camera systems, thermal-imaging drones and expanded satellite connectivity are transforming how emergency services detect, assess and manage bush fires – giving crews earlier warnings, clearer intelligence and better on-ground coordination.

In the past year alone, high-definition cameras have detected nearly 4,000 fires – giving agencies critical early warnings and helping crews make faster and more informed decisions.

The cameras have played a key role in a range of recent incidents across the state, including the early detection of fires prior to Triple Zero (000) calls in the Riverina late last year.

The drone capability of the RFS also continues to be expanded, with more than 50 trained pilots now positioned across the state.

Equipped with thermal imaging, drones provide live vision of firegrounds and help identify hot spots after a main fire has passed. They can be rapidly deployed to emerging incidents or areas of concern, giving crews clearer, real-time picture of conditions and improving safety for firefighters on the ground.

This bush fire season has marked a major step forward in modernising frontline communications, building on recommendations from the NSW Bushfire Inquiry to strengthen the RFS fleet.

Vehicles are being upgraded with enhanced connectivity, including an on-going roll-out of satellite-enabled systems (Vehicle as a Node technology) and thousands of trucks equipped with Mobile Data Terminals to improve crews’ communication, connectivity and safety in remote and disaster-impacted areas. 

Since the season began on 1 October, the RFS has responded to more than 8,750 bush and grass fires, as broad areas of the state continue to experience drying conditions.

The Minns Labor Government is investing over $2.2 billion in emergency services, uplifting capability and boosting resources across NSW.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:

“Every minute matters when a fire starts. This upgraded technology helps fire crews arrive better informed and better prepared to tackle the fire and keep communities safe, especially in remote areas.

“These improvements are helping create a more connected fireground where technology supports the people making critical decisions in rapidly changing conditions.

“We’ve responded to all 76 recommendations of the NSW Bushfire Inquiry report and we’re investing in technology that supports volunteers to stay ahead of increasingly challenging fire conditions.”

Commissioner of the RFS Trent Curtin said:

“When fighting bush fires, the value of early detection and accurate situational awareness cannot be overstated.

“The ability to access real-time imagery, particularly in remote and high-risk areas, helps us build a clearer picture of fire behaviour and conditions as incidents unfold.

“Projects like these ensure the RFS can continue to adapt and evolve in support of our volunteers and the communities they protect.”

The NSW Opposition is renewing its calls for the Minns Government to implement QR codes in taxis, following shocking new data showing more than one in four women have experienced inappropriate behaviour in rideshares and taxis.

The figures expose a serious safety failure, with many incidents still going unreported, leaving women without confidence in the system and a real solution for accountability and safety required to be implemented.
 
The Opposition’s proposal announced in 2024 and backed by the NSW Taxi Council would see unique QR Codes placed into taxis to enable customers to choose to pay via the meter or the QR Code.
 
The QR Code would be linked to the driver, the vehicle, and the customer to balance the security of payment for drivers with a passenger’s priority of paying the correct fare and having a safe journey.
 
The Opposition said the government’s slow response to behaviour issues falls well short of what is needed to protect passengers.
 
Shadow Minister for Transport Natalie Ward said the government is once again reacting too late.
 
“This is a simple, practical reform that would give women more control and confidence every time they use a ride-share or taxi service.

“More than one in four women experiencing inappropriate conduct is a disgrace, and the government’s response is far too weak, it is all talk and no accountability,” Ms Ward said.
 
“Government can’t be in every cab, every time — but a QR code can. Training modules won’t stop bad behaviour in the moment. Real accountability will.”
 
Shadow Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Sexual Assault Natasha Maclaren-Jones said stronger safeguards are urgently needed.

“Women deserve to feel safe, not vulnerable, when travelling and especially at night,” Mrs Maclaren-Jones said.

“If the Minns Government is serious about women’s safety, it should adopt solutions that actually protect passengers in real time, not after something goes wrong.”
 
Shadow Minister for Women Felicity Wilson said the figures show the current approach is failing and that strong action is needed.
 
“Women should not have to weigh up their safety every time they take a taxi or rideshare. This is exactly the kind of simple technology that can restore confidence and improve safety.”
 
“When over one in four women experience inappropriate behaviour, you know the problem is culture and accountability. QR codes in taxis will provide confidence to women – who just want a safe, reliable trip home.”

The Opposition said QR codes would provide real-time trip verification, improve fare transparency, and create a clear record to support complaints and investigations.

Almost 40 years since the Tangara trains were built in Newcastle, the work to extend their life is coming back to the Hunter, with the Minns Labor Government establishing two new production lines at the rail facility in Cardiff.

This investment will create around 100 new jobs and 20 apprenticeships in the Hunter, rebuilding the train manufacturing workforce after the former Liberal-National Government ended passenger train manufacturing in the region in 2013 and prioritised overseas manufacturers. 

The $447 million Tangara Life Extension program will extend the life of 55 eight-carriage trains by over a decade by replacing internal cladding, the computer operating system, installing more accessible emergency help points, emergency door release, passenger visual displays, upgrades to the passenger address system and CCTV.

The two new production lines in the Hunter, in addition to the existing three lines at Auburn and Flemington, will increase the pace of train upgrades from 12 per year to 20. This increased capacity means more upgraded Tangara trains will be on the network sooner.

The 100 new jobs and 20 apprenticeships in the Hunter brings the total number of jobs on the Tangara Life Extension program to 320. 200 people including apprentices are already working on the program at Auburn and Flemington.

This investment in local skills will help develop the workforce that will build the new Tangara fleet in NSW, which will begin procurement by 2027 and meet the 50 per cent local manufacturing target as part of the Future Fleet Program.

The life extension program is part of the Government’s focus on improving rail reliability in response to the Independent Rail Review.

The Tangaras are some of the oldest rolling stocks and refurbished carriages will help to reduce maintenance faults. 

To date, four Tangara trains are undergoing upgrades with the first train now in the network undergoing dynamic testing activities before it re-enters service on the network.

Minister for Transport John Graham said:

“I lived in Newcastle when it was a proud train building city. We’re now bringing train manufacturing jobs back to the Hunter, the home of the original Tangara fleet.

“The former government sent Hunter jobs offshore because of their obsession with buying trains overseas. Anywhere but NSW, that was their policy on transport manufacturing jobs.

“This investment accelerates the life extension of our Tangara fleet while creating real jobs and skills development in the Hunter region.

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said:

“The people of Newcastle built these trains more than 35 years ago, and it’s only right that the Hunter is once again at the heart of this work. We’re truly a proud train manufacturing town.

“But this is about more than upgrading trains. It’s about creating secure jobs, training apprentices and giving local families confidence that opportunity exists right here in our region.

“We’re backing Hunter workers and making sure the skills and industries that built this region continue to thrive into the future.”

Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said:

“Almost 40 years after the Tangara trains were first built in Newcastle, it is fantastic to see this work returning to the Hunter.

“This is what rebuilding public transport capability in NSW looks like – more skilled jobs in the Hunter, more apprenticeships and more work being done here at home.

“After years of offshoring and neglect, we are rebuilding the workforce and capability NSW needs for the future.”

Minister for Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement Courtney Houssos said:

“This is a key step as we rebuild our domestic manufacturing capability and turn around 12 years of offshoring by the previous Liberal-National Government.

“We know that for every one job in manufacturing there are a further 3.5 in the supply chain, and that’s why we want our procurement dollars creating jobs here in NSW.

“We want to better leverage our precious procurement dollars through projects like this so we can maximise our support for workers and industries here in NSW, not on the other side of the world.”

Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery said: 

“The two lines to be added to this facility are also adding new jobs and apprenticeships, offering great opportunities for locals. 

“There will be cost savings associated with the acceleration of the program of work and by opening up these additional lines, the project will be finished sooner than previously forecast. 

“That means the benefits of this initiative will be felt far beyond Wallsend.” 

Sydney Trains Chief Executive Matt Longland said:

“The Tangara Life Extension Program is the most comprehensive refurbishment of its kind ever undertaken by Sydney Trains.

“Our teams in Sydney and soon, in the Hunter are carrying out critical system upgrades, modernising on‑board technologies and improving safety and accessibility features to bring these trains in line with contemporary standards.”

The Minns Labor Government is investing more than $4 million in Aboriginal-led research projects which aim to reduce heart disease and improve heart health outcomes for Aboriginal communities across NSW.

Nine Aboriginal researchers have been awarded funding for three-year research projects under the NSW Government’s Aboriginal Heart Health Grant program.

Among the successful recipients is Belinda Field and her team at the Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Services based on the Central Coast, who will work in close consultation with Darkinjung Community members to develop the Walk Strong Project.

The $750,000 grant will support Ms Field and her team to address the disproportionately high rates of peripheral artery disease among Aboriginal people through a culturally responsive, community-led heart disease education and exercise program.

Other grant recipients are located in Sydney and regional areas across the state, including Mardi, Kempsey, Newcastle, Griffith and Bathurst.

Cardiovascular disease includes many different conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels and disproportionately affects Aboriginal people at a rate 2.4 times higher than non-Indigenous Australians.

The disease also develops, on average, more than 10 years earlier in Aboriginal people. Despite improvements in health outcomes, coronary heart disease remains the leading cause of death for Aboriginal people.

Research consultation and co-design will ensure the funded projects and outcomes are grounded in the knowledge and lived experience of Aboriginal communities and are aligned with Aboriginal cultural values, community priorities and local strengths.

The grants are being delivered through two funding streams. One stream provides up to $750,000 to support the development of new cardiovascular interventions which were identified through extensive consultation with local communities.

A second stream offers up to $250,000 for early-stage developmental research projects, where consultation with Aboriginal communities will be undertaken to determine and identify needs, better understand causes, and gather local community input on potential solutions.

The other successful grant recipients and research projects are:

• Dr Juanita Sherwood – Building a culturally relevant Model of Care for Cardiovascular Health
• Professor Tony Dreise – Healthy Mouth, Healthy Heart: Co-designed action research project to improve integrated First Nations care models between heart and oral health
• Amy Thompson – Re-imagining F.A.S.T: Community-led co-design of a culturally responsive early warning stroke message, to improve stroke outcomes
• Lisa Curry – Marrambidya Murrayalalinya: Sound as a Cultural Determinant of Health for Aboriginal People
• Cassia Lindsay – Elders in Wellness: A culturally grounded healthy ageing journey
• Mandy Debenham – Caring for Country’s Hearts: A Collaborative Approach to Cardiac Health
• Yeena Thompson – CIRCLE: Aboriginal Community-led initiative for Research on Cardiovascular Health Lived Experiences
• Dr Liesa Clague – “Getting at the heart of it”: Aboriginal community-led participatory action research using storytelling yarning.

The grants are part of the NSW Government’s Cardiovascular Research Capacity Program, a $150 million investment over 10 years, which aims to improve the cardiovascular health of people in NSW.

For more information visit: https://medicalresearch.nsw.gov.au/grants/aboriginal-heart-health

Minister for Medical Research and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said:

“Heart disease continues to have a disproportionate impact on Aboriginal communities and I am proud to be part of a Government that is making this major investment in targeted research funding to support Aboriginal-led solutions to close this unacceptable gap.

“We know that Aboriginal communities understand their own health needs better than anyone and Aboriginal-led research is essential to ensure heart health intiatives to prevent disease, improve care and help save lives of Aboriginal peoples.

“Through this investment we are creating long-term foundations for healthier futures across Aboriginal communities in NSW.

”I know first-hand that Belinda Field and her team at the Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Services do fantastic work on the Central Coast in partrnership with Darkinjung, and are an excellent example of what this funding can achieve to improve the health and day-to-day lives of mob.”

Proud Wiradjuri woman and CEO at Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Services Belinda Field said::

“This NSW Government investment puts Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Services at the forefront of elevating community knowledge and self-determination. 

“It will assist to drive Aboriginal cultural distinctiveness into research by embedding our ways of deep listening and two-way knowledge sharing to achieve greater outcomes for those affected by heart disease in our community here in Darkinjung country.”

Strategy and Operations Manager at Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Services Paul Hussein said:

“The prevention and management of foot disease is a key priority for people in our community here in Darkinjung country, and the research project will utilise Aboriginal-led design and community participatory action research to develop and evaluate a community-led exercise and education program for people living with Peripheral Artery Disease.”

NSW Energy Minister Penny Sharpe has written to the chief executives of the major fuel companies to seek information to inform NSW’s response to fuel distribution challenges arising from the conflict in the Middle East.

While the Federal Government has confirmed that fuel deliveries to Australia continue to arrive as planned, NSW and other states are experiencing localised shortages and distribution issues in the face of increased demand.

The NSW Government is seeking historical information on storage and stocks, as well as sales and orders. We are also requesting information on future orders and forecasts.

This information will be used to form a more complete view on what is happening in the market and how the Government can work with the fuel industry and end customers to maintain economic activity through a period of uncertainty.

Right now, fuel supplies are arriving in NSW as expected and supply remains secure, but we are continuing to plan for all scenarios.

To support national coordination, the NSW Government has designated the Secretary of the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Anthony Lean as the state’s fuel coordinator. Mr Lean is working with with Anthea Harris, who has been appointed as the Commonwealth’s Fuel Supply Taskforce Coordinator.

The NSW Government’s message remains that people should only buy as much fuel as they need.

Motorists are encouraged to download the NSW FuelCheck app or visit the FuelCheck website for daily information on fuel prices as an indication of the availability across the state.

Minister for Energy, Penny Sharpe said:

“We are continuing to monitor the impacts the Middle East conflict is having on NSW fuel distribution.

“We are planning for all possible scenarios, noting the unpredictable nature of the overseas conflict and the potential for the fuel situation to deteriorate.

“As part of NSW’s preparations, I have written to the major fuel companies seeking information about historical and future fuel orders.

“This will help us deal with emerging distribution issues and plan for future interventions, should they become necessary.”

Communities in New England are benefiting from a boost to frontline emergency care, with an additional 16 paramedics now on the road in Gunnedah.

These additional paramedics are based at Gunnedah Ambulance Station and are delivering emergency and out-of-hospital care across the New England Zone as part of NSW Ambulance’s highly mobile workforce.

This increase in clinical staffing forms part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to deliver 500 additional paramedics to rural and regional areas.

This marks the third intake of paramedics under the regional 500 initiative, following 125 paramedics who commenced in regional NSW last year and another 125 who began work in 2024.

Under this initiative, an additional 44 paramedics have now commenced work in the New England Zone.

The Minns Government will continue to roll out the additional 500 paramedics for regional NSW next year, with future locations determined through NSW Ambulance’s evidence based, best practice service, and workforce planning, as well as consultation with staff and the Health Services Union.

Minister for Health, Ryan Park: 

“The Minns Government is strengthening emergency health services in regional communities by adding more paramedics to the frontline.

“After 12 years of neglect by the Coalition, we are focused on rebuilding the health workforce that keeps our essential services running.

“These extra 16 paramedics in Gunnedah are helping to ensure the local community receives optimal, high-quality care when they need it most.”

Labor Spokesperson for Tamworth Anthony D’Adam: 

“Having 16 new paramedics join the team at Gunnedah is making a real difference for patients across the New England Zone.

“This investment reflects our commitment to improving access to emergency healthcare for rural and regional communities by expanding our workforce.”

NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan: 

“Expanding our paramedic workforce at Gunnedah enhances our capacity to respond to emergencies and provide greater support to teams across regional NSW.

“With demand for ambulance services continuing to grow, these additional resources help us continue to deliver a high level of care for the community.”

The Minns Labor Government has fast-tracked a statewide fuel compliance blitz to strengthen fuel price transparency and protect motorists from misleading pricing.

At a time when families are feeling every dollar, the Minns Labor Government is stepping in to ensure fuel retailers do the right thing and that motorists are not misled when filling up. When it comes to the cost-of-living, this Government is clear: transparency, accountability and fairness matter.

FuelCheck is the NSW Government’s real-time fuel price transparency tool and provides motorists with instant access to prices from around 2,400 service stations across the state. It puts power back in the hands of consumers by exposing price hikes, ending guesswork at the bowser and driving greater competition across the market.

The tool has seen a rise in downloads, from 25,000 in February 2026, to almost one million downloads in March 2026.  To date, the FuelCheck app has also had 6.1 million visits from returning customers. This is a substantial increase from the 2.7 million total customer count recorded in February. The app allows consumers to compare prices, track price cycles, save favourite stations and receive price-drop alerts before filling up.

At the NSW Fuel Security Roundtable, retailers agreed to use FuelCheck to inform the Government when they have run out of fuel. FuelCheck will then hide these retailers from the platform so customers have certainty there is availability from providers on the app.

Under NSW law, fuel retailers must:

• Register with FuelCheck and report price changes in real time
• Ensure displayed prices match the price charged at the bowser

Retailers who break the rules face serious consequences, including on-the-spot fine of $1,100, or Court penalties of up to $22,000 for individuals and $110,000 for corporations.

NSW Fair Trading is currently conducting unannounced inspections of fuel retailers across metropolitan and regional area. Inspectors have already carried out over 190 service station inspections across the state, issuing 13 penalty infringement notices.

NSW Fair Trading continues to work closely with the ACCC, including by sharing data, to uphold strong consumer protection standards.

Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading, Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“With fuel prices putting real pressure on households in NSW, the Minns Labor Government is stepping up to make sure motorists aren’t being ripped off at the bowser.

“This compliance blitz sends a clear message: misleading motorists will not be tolerated.

“We’re using every tool available, including FuelCheck and tough enforcement, to back motorists and support families when it matters most.”

NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Natasha Mann said:

“It’s the law for fuel retailers to register and correctly report their prices through FuelCheck, so motorists can have confidence.

“NSW Fair Trading is significantly increasing its compliance activity to make sure motorists get accurate price information every time they fill up.

“If consumers see a price mismatch between FuelCheck and the bowser, they should report it via the app or website to NSW Fair Trading.”

The upgraded Tumut Aerodrome will open tomorrow, marking an important investment that delivers major improvements to strengthen community safety and support future aeronautical events.

Snowy Valleys Council was awarded $12.5 million from the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund delivered under the jointly funded Australian and NSW Governments Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

The upgrades include major improvements to drainage, runway infrastructure, lighting and control systems and fencing, all aimed at supporting safer and more reliable aviation operations year‑round.

These upgrades will help the aerodrome operate more consistently in challenging weather conditions while meeting modern aviation standards.

A key feature of the project is the installation of precision path indicators, a system of lights on the side of the runway, that provides clearer guidance for pilots and supports safer landings.

This will enhance fire‑fighting capability and improve access for air ambulance services.

Together, these upgrades will improve the region’s liveability and resilience of the region by ensuring aircraft can support emergency responses when the community needs it most.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain:

“The Australian Government is proud of what it has been able to achieve under this program, delivering impactful support to many communities in the Snowy Valleys who will now be able to utilise these upgrades.

“It is important that emergency support is operating in the safest conditions possible so that they can fully focus on doing what they do for our country.

“We will continue working closely with the NSW Government to deliver projects like this so that communities are safer when disasters hit.”

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty:

“The opening of the upgraded Tumut Aerodrome is a proud moment for this community and for the Minns Labor Government.

“These improvements will give local residents confidence that support will reach them quickly in an emergency, whether it’s during a bushfire or when someone needs urgent medical care.

“This project builds the connection this region has to the services it relies on and is an investment in the wellbeing and security of the people of Tumut and the Snowy Valleys.”

Senator Deborah O’Neill, Senator for NSW, Labor spokesperson for Riverina:

“This is critical infrastructure that supports the Tumut community and surrounding areas.

“It enhances the ability of emergency services to respond when we need them most.

“Our government is investing in essential infrastructure for all Australians, wherever we live.”

State MP for Wagga Wagga, Dr Joe McGirr

“This project is a strong example of what targeted investment can deliver for regional communities.

“The upgraded aerodrome gives people across the Snowy Valleys greater confidence that vital services can reach them quickly, especially in emergencies.

“I am proud to see this funding making a real and lasting difference to the safety and wellbeing of local families.”

Mayor of Snowy Valleys Council Julia Ham:

“We are deeply grateful for the support and the investment from the Australian and NSW Governments that made these upgrades possible.

“This project gives our community real comfort, knowing the aerodrome is better prepared for emergencies and ready to support us in our hardest moments.

“It strengthens our sense of safety and reassurance and it means people here can feel more confident that help will reach us when we need it most.”

A revised Orchard Hills Stage 1 rezoning proposal is now on public exhibition following changes based on extensive community and stakeholder feedback.

The updated rezoning plan will cover 155 hectares of the 350 hectares previously exhibited and will unlock up to 5,700 new homes and 2,100 jobs near the future metro station.

It focuses on development around the new Orchard Hills Metro Station, supporting future transport links to Bradfield, Western Sydney International Airport, and St Marys.

The revised proposal concentrates development in the town centre and near the Metro station. It reduces potential property acquisitions through updated street designs and removes “The Vines” estate from the rezoning.

This rezoning will leverage major investments in the Western Sydney Airport line of the Sydney Metro to unlock more well-located homes in an area of high demand in Western Sydney.

Key features of the revised Stage 1 proposal include:

• Building heights of between 2 and 25 storeys.
• 23 hectares of new retail, commercial and employment space.
• Almost 20 hectares of open spaces, including parks, sporting fields, and civic spaces.
• A new town centre around the Orchard Hills Metro Station that will provide shops, services, and vibrant public spaces and entertainment options.
• Improved transport links including roads, cycleways and walkways
• Space for a multi-purpose community hub (at least 2,400sqm) that could include creative spaces and a library.
• Protection of the natural environment and waterways.

The NSW Government is leading this rezoning under the State Significant Rezoning Policy, given the strategic location of Orchard Hills, near Penrith CBD, St Marys, Western Sydney Aerotropolis, Bradfield and the new Western Sydney International Airport.

The original 2024 Rezoning Proposal and Structure Plan was exhibited for 14 weeks between October 2024 and February 2025 and received 716 submissions.

The revised Stage 1 proposal is now on exhibition until Friday, 1 May 2026. The community is also invited to register for a drop-in information session. For more information and to have your say, visit NSW Planning.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“We’ve listened carefully to the community’s feedback on the original proposal and this updated plan delivers housing and jobs for Orchard Hills while protecting the area’s waterways and biodiversity.

“The Stage 1 Orchard Hills Rezoning Proposal is a major milestone for Western Sydney, which will pave the way for a vibrant, urban community around the future Metro Station.

“The proposal will enable the delivery of approximately 5,700 new homes and 2,100 jobs, supported by a new town centre with shops, services, entertainment, and public spaces.”

Prison facilities dating back to the late 1800s at Goulburn, along with ageing facilities at Silverwater Women’s Correctional Centre, will be retired under changes designed to make conditions safer for inmates and Corrective Services NSW staff and improve coordination across a modern, statewide correctional system.

These changes form part of a broader investment in the correctional system, with the Minns Labor Government planning to bring more beds online and frontline staffing positions into public hands than ever before, including the ability, if required, to scale up in other prisons around the state.

Correctional services will continue to operate from Goulburn and Silverwater. The changes impact outdated wings and units, some of which date back more than a century and no longer meet modern safety standards.

The changes announced today will ensure all affected staff are presented with opportunities for redeployment to equivalent positions within Corrective Services NSW (CSNSW), and there are also incentives for those who may wish to relocate.

The changes respond to recommendations previously made by the Inspector of Custodial Services to retire these Victorian-era wings at Goulburn, and feedback provided regarding the state of the facilities at Silverwater.

Goulburn Correctional Centre’s maximum-security accommodation wings opened in 1884 and are among the oldest custodial infrastructure still in use in NSW.

Their age makes them difficult to maintain and operate consistently with the requirements of modern correctional environment.

Silverwater Women’s Correctional Centre was built in 1969 and has been criticised for its dilapidated accommodation cells that contain ligature points.

It currently houses two specialist units – the Mental Health Screening Unit and Mum Shirl Unit – which will be moved to Dillwynia Correctional Centre and expanded.

Silverwater Women’s Correctional Centre will continue to operate as an intake and reception centre for processing women into custody.

These changes will come into effect operationally by the end of September 2026.

Although periods of transition can be challenging, this Government is committed to retaining all staff and supporting people while they navigate these changes.

They are a positive step towards better work environments for staff and more safe and modern beds for inmates.

CSNSW and the Minister will continue to work with the Public Services Association as these changes are implemented.

This is part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to create safer communities and build stronger workforces, including:

• Bringing Junee and Parklea prisons back into public hands, after a decade of Liberal-National privatisation
• Lifting the Liberal National’s wages cap
• Prioritising the removal of litagure points
• Investing $30 million in priority reforms across the system, including critical upgrades

Minister for Corrections, Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“Community safety is this Government’s top priority. It is for this reason that we are retiring these Victorian era facilities and investing in modern, secure and fit-for-purpose correctional centres.

“As inmate numbers rise, we are ensuring our staff have the safest possible workplaces and that those in custody are housed in facilities that meet contemporary standards.

“These changes strengthen our system and keep the community and staff safe.”

Commissioner of Corrective Services NSW, Gary McCahon PSM said:

“We’re committed to ensuring our correctional facilities are in the best condition and have the functional capabilities to meet our high operational standards – and part of that is taking some of the state’s oldest beds offline.

“After reviewing prisons around the state, we decided these reforms to our prison infrastructure are necessary to bring the system in-line with our focus on operating safe, secure and humane prisons that provide better working conditions for our officers too.

“Crucially, these changes will allow us to move high-needs female inmates from Silverwater Women’s to modern accommodation units at Dillwynia Correctional Centre – ensuring our most at-risk women are in specialised, up-to-date facilities.”