Category: NSW News

The extraordinary NSW duo, melanoma treatment pioneers Professors Richard Scolyer AO and Georgina Long AO have taken out top honours in the 2024 Australian of the Year awards at the national ceremony in Canberra.

The NSW Premier has commended the extraordinary work of the life-saving professors for their trailblazing contributions to our state and the nation.

The Sydneysiders’ enduring partnership has saved thousands of lives from melanoma, often referred to as Australia’s national cancer.

Professors Scolyer and Long are the co-medical directors of Melanoma Institute Australia, are sought-after media commentators and advocates for sun-safe behaviour and melanoma prevention.

Less than a decade ago, advanced melanoma was fatal – but thanks to the pair’s immunotherapy approach, which activates a patient’s own immune system, it has become a curable disease.

Last June, when Professor Scolyer, 57, was diagnosed with incurable grade-4 brain cancer, he and Professor Long, 53, developed a series of world-first treatments based on their melanoma breakthroughs.

Professor Scolyer became the world’s first brain cancer patient to have pre-surgery combination immunotherapy.

By undertaking an experimental treatment with the risk including the potential of shortening his life, he has advanced the understanding of brain cancer and is benefiting future patients.

This week, Professor Scolyer proudly announced his “brilliant news” that his eight-month brain scan showed no recurrence of the cancer.

For more information visit australianoftheyear.org.au

NSW Premier Chris Minns said:

“On behalf of the NSW Government and the entire state I want to congratulate Professors Richard Scolyer AO and Georgina Long AO on becoming the 2024 Australians of the Year. We are so proud of them.”

“The true spirit of being an Australian is helping others. This pair’s legacy is not only etched in the archives of scientific history but also in the hearts of those whose lives you have touched and transformed.

“These two Sydney trailblazers, armed with brilliance and a passion for making a difference, have turned the once-dire prognosis of advanced melanoma into a story of triumph.

“Their research has not only saved lives but painted a vibrant canvas of hope for countless individuals and their families.

“Congratulations to all the NSW Australians of the Year, for their incredible contributions to make our state and our nation a better place.”

Australia Day is a day to count our blessings. We share a stable, peaceful, democratic, culturally rich and diverse, prosperous, free and beautiful country – I think the luckiest country in the world.
 
When we see the turmoil around the world, we have a daily reminder about just how lucky we are to call ourselves Australians – not in hubris but in gratitude for our good fortune and for those in our history on whose shoulders we rest. We often take our freedoms for granted, but they were hard fought for and it’s our joint responsibility to protect and enhance them.
 
While Australia Day is a day to count our blessings, it’s also the occasion to engage in a constructive reminder about what needs to improve. In particular, we still have a long way to go to in reconciliation and closing the gap of Indigenous disadvantage.
 
Australia is a remarkable fusion of three strands.
 
There is our Indigenous strand – the world’s oldest living civilisation, the ancient custodians of our vast continent, whose ancestors go back 65,000 years.
 
There is our British strand – the structures of government and civic society, the rule of law, scientific and technological advancement, language and literature, faiths and creeds, which came with the early settlers and evolved locally.
 
And there is our multicultural strand – waves of arrivals on our shores who have enriched Australian society in the arts, sciences, sport, education, business, public life and so many other ways.
 
My greatest enjoyment on Australia Day is seeing, at citizenship ceremonies, our newest citizens make the choice to declare their allegiance to Australia and our core democratic values.
 
How ever you spend it – whether in a quintessentially laid back Australian way at the beach or at a BBQ, or in a more serious way – let’s reflect, respect and celebrate.
 
Happy Australia Day!

Communities across NSW are benefitting from a major boost to the state’s medical workforce – with more than 1000 medical graduate interns starting work in NSW public hospitals this month.

Minister for Health Ryan Park today met with some of the more than 120 new junior doctors working across hospitals in south-western Sydney.

Interns are medical graduates who have completed their medical degree and are required to complete a supervised year of practice in order to become independent practitioners.

The interns will work with and learn from NSW Health’s experienced and highly skilled medical staff in one of the world’s best health systems.

The new doctors starting their internship will be entering a training program with networked hospitals throughout the state, providing formal and on-the-job training.

They receive 2-year contracts to rotate between metropolitan, regional and rural hospitals to ensure the diversity of their experience.

They also rotate across different specialties during the intern year, including surgery, medicine and emergency medicine.

The NSW Government is undertaking an ambitious plan to rebuild the state’s health workforce, including through:

• implementing safe staffing levels of nurses and midwives beginning in our emergency departments
• saving 1112 temporary nurses by making them permanent
• abolishing the wages cap and delivering record pay increases for nurses, paramedics and other health workers as well as salary packaging
• beginning to roll out 500 additional paramedics in regional, rural and remote communities
• doubling the health worker study subsidies.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said:

“I wish these new junior doctors all the very best for a long and rewarding career in the NSW public health system.

“NSW employs more than 170,000 people in public hospitals across the state – making us the largest health system in Australia and a very attractive choice for young doctors looking to train in a diverse range of clinical settings.

“From doctors, to nurses, paramedics and allied health professionals – we are rebuilding an engaged, capable and supported workforce.

“When we boost and support our health workforce, we will see improved health outcomes, it’s as simple as that.”

The Minister for Transport has announced an ambitious policy reform program to address the key issues facing the freight industry in NSW.

The program will deliver prioritised and practical policy reform focused on the key current and emerging challenges facing the NSW freight task.

It will be led by Transport for NSW under the leadership of an Independent Advisory Panel of eminent experts all who have deep experience in the freight and logistics sector reporting to the Minister who will assist in the development of a new freight strategy for the State. 

The panel will consist of:

• Kerry Schott AO
• Lucio Di Bartolomeo
• Hermione Parsons

This policy reform will focus on the different parts of the supply chain, with ports, rail, road and intermodal facilities all considered as part of a coordinated supply chain to determine the right policy framework to optimise safety, sustainability and productivity.

A more productive freight sector makes it easier for businesses to operate and can also deliver lower retail prices for customers right across NSW.

Immediate priorities for the panel will include consideration of the determination of compensation to be paid by the Port of Newcastle for increasing container operations as part of NSW port policy.

The panel will also review and consult with industry on the recommendations made by Mr Ed Willett’s review of the port regulatory framework and the regulation of the movement of containers at Port Botany.

The program will identify short, medium and long-term actions for Government to support the ongoing improvement of freight transport across NSW.

The freight task in NSW is a complex and evolving with a need to respond to advances in technology and a move toward net zero emissions, the ongoing development of major infrastructure, the changing ports landscape, national harmonisation policies and global trade fluctuations.

The Freight Reform Program will deliver a comprehensive strategic reform agenda to optimise freight transport to benefit NSW communities.

There will be comprehensive stakeholder consultation undertaken as part of this program. It is intended that the first phase will follow release of a Discussion Paper and is expected to occur in in the first quarter of next year. 

Find out more about freight reform

Transport Minister Jo Haylen said:

“Safe, sustainable, and productive freight transport is critical to support the people, businesses and industries of NSW. A more productive freight sector can deliver reduced costs for businesses and lower retail prices for ordinary people right across NSW.”

“Our freight network is still too disjointed and inefficient with policy and infrastructure bottlenecks right across the supply chain.

“I am pleased to be able to announce the beginning of this significant reform agenda to inform government policy and provide an evidence-based action plan that will optimise the freight transport network in NSW.

“The appointment of the Independent Advisory Panel will work with my department and provide independent and expert advice on the Program. 

“I have confidence that with their diverse expertise in their fields, the Panel is well placed to lead us through this significant reform in freight transport policy.”

Refunds are on the rise for people who cop a dodgy taxi fare, with data showing a jump in calls and cashback for passengers since the NSW Government made it mandatory for Taxi Fare Hotline stickers to be displayed in and on all vehicles.

The government mandate came into effect in September 2023, making it easier for passengers to report complaints.

This has resulted in a significant surge in Hotline usage, with 679 calls and 874 sticker QR code scans in the months of November-January, compared with 473 and 97 for the same period in the previous year.

In the past five months, 528 refunds have been issued by taxi companies – making up more than half of all refunds issued since the hotline was introduced in November 2022.

An estimated 1 million people are expected to catch taxi and ride share services, known as point to point (P2P) trips, in Sydney this long weekend.

Public holidays and major events traditionally see a spike in opportunistic behaviour from a small minority of taxi drivers who break the rules. Hotspots include the Airport and Sydney CBD.

The P2P Transport Commissioner’s team of on-street Authorised Officers will be out in force this long weekend, conducting plain clothes and highly visible operations to make sure taxi and rideshare drivers are doing the right thing.

All passengers are encouraged to use simple tips to make sure they have a safe and positive experience getting to and from their destinations:

• Always match registration details to your booking.
• Check the driver’s name and photo.
• Never accept a ride from someone who approaches you on the street or at the airport claiming to be a driver.
• Let a friend or family member know you are on your way or consider sharing your location with them.
• Always wait for your ride in a well-lit area.

In the 2022-23 financial year in NSW:

• More than 68 million P2P trips, a return to pre-pandemic levels
• 6541 taxi licenses
• P2P transport compliance team conducted around 5500 checks of taxis and ride share vehicles
• 2300 complaints passed onto taxi companies, with 90 per cent resolved
• 570 fare-related fines issued to drivers by on street Authorised Officers
• 30,000 taxi hotline stickers issued.

Since the Taxi Fare Hotline launched in November 2022 to December 2023:

• 892 refunds issued
• 53 drivers suspended
• 33 drivers fired.

Read the Point to Point Transport Commissioner’s Annual Review 2022-23 

Passengers can report complaints and issues by calling the 24-hour Hotline on 1800 500 410

Transport Minister Jo Haylen said:

“No matter where and how you’re traveling around this long weekend, we want every ride to be a safe ride.

“Public transport is a great, cheap option – but for those taking a taxi or ride share service, there will be Authorised Officers out on the streets to keep you safe and ensure drivers are doing the right thing.

“We know people feel like they’re paying more for everything right now – and the last thing we want is to see passengers get taken for a ride by dodgy drivers.

“If you’ve been ripped off, you deserve that money back in your pocket. That’s why our government mandated Taxi Hotline stickers being displayed and increased the fine for those caught doing the wrong thing from $300 to $1000.”

Point to Point Transport Commissioner Anthony Wing said:

“There are more than 15,000 taxi drivers in NSW and I want to thank the majority of them who do the right thing.

“Over this long weekend my message to the minority of drivers doing illegal activity is – you’re on notice. I have more officers out conducting compliance operations than ever before.

“This long weekend, and every day, I want everyone to receive a fair fare. The Hotline allows passengers to talk to our helpful staff and report any issue, which is passed on directly to the taxi company.

“Fare compliance rorts to watch out for include not using the meter, overcharging, or refusing a passenger if they don’t agree to a fixed fare or because the trip is too short.”

A new preschool on the site of the Eugowra Showground was officially opened today by NSW Premier Chris Minns, Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib and Member for Orange Phil Donato.

Funded by the NSW Government and managed by Cabonne Shire Council, the new facility features a modular classroom with space for almost 50 children, 15 full-time teachers as well as storage space, play facilities and an office.

Replacing the original facility in Nanima Street, which was lost in the floods, today’s opening represents another significant milestone for the community of 700 as they continue their journey towards recovery.

Although temporary, until a new permanent site is established, the opening of the preschool gives families the support they need to return to work and local children a safe space to play, learn and enjoy.

NSW Premier Chris Minns, said:

“We’re focused on supporting communities recover from natural disasters and I’m so pleased to be standing here today to see something a lot of us take for granted.

“I’ve said this before, access to early education is so important for children and families because it establishes lifelong learning practices and it’s the key to getting parents back into the workforce.

“Today, we’re not only seeing that, but we’re also seeing a community take another step towards getting back on their feet.”

Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib said:

“Supporting communities like Eugowra recover from disaster and build back stronger are key priorities for the NSW Government.

“Opening the preschool today is another sign that we are in this for the long-haul.

“I’d also like to acknowledge the work of the local member Phil Donato in advocating for support for his community.”

Member for Orange, Phil Donato said:

“The opening of the preschool is a key milestone as the community continues to deal with the devastating 2022 floods.

“The community will benefit from having the temporary preschool in place and we will push for a permanent facility to be built and opened as soon as possible.”

Recreational fishers are encouraged to avoid the heat from a fine or prosecution by following the rules fishing this summer.

A recreational fishing licence is required when fishing in NSW waters, both freshwater and saltwater, even if you only fish occasionally.

If you are fishing in NSW and aged 18 years and over, you need to be able to show your licence card or licence fee receipt to a Fisheries Officer upon request.

Exemptions do apply for Aboriginal persons, pensioners and when fishing on a charter boat.

The current rules and regulations can be found through the FishSmart app or by downloading the freshwater and saltwater fishing guides from the DPI website. 

Responsible fishers can also assist DPI in reporting anyone not following the rules, by making a report to the Fishers Watch phoneline.

The public is encouraged to report illegal or suspect illegal fishing activity to the Fishers Watch Phoneline on 1800 043 536 or alternatively report it online via the submission form at dpi.nsw.gov.au

Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty said:

“By following the recreational fishing rules, anglers are doing their part to ensure the sustainability of NSW’s world-class fisheries resources.

“As we enjoy fishing over summer, all recreational fishers must make themselves aware of the rules, including bag and size limits, fishing closures and the location of sanctuary zones in Marine Parks.

“Fisheries Officers will be continuing to conduct covert patrols and covert operations over the coming months to ensure fishers are following the rules, and anglers who break the rules may face a range of sanctions including fines and court action.”

Attorney General Michael Daley today announced the appointment of 2 highly respected barristers, Grant Brady SC and David Barrow SC, to the District Court.

Mr Brady has been a legal practitioner since 1990 and was admitted to the NSW Bar in 2000 becoming Senior Counsel in 2015. He has appeared in numerous District Court and Supreme Court trials in NSW and other Australian jurisdictions. He has appeared in the Court of Criminal Appeal as well as appearing as Counsel Assisting for the Independent Commission Against Corruption and in the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.

Mr Brady has also coached advocacy for the past 20 years all around Australia as well as in England, South Africa, Hong Kong, Singapore and India.

Mr Barrow comes to the bench after an esteemed career with Legal Aid. He was recently appointed as a Senior Counsel and has extensive court experience that includes appearing in criminal trials and sentence proceedings in the Local, District and Supreme jurisdictions.

In the Coroners Court, he has appeared as Counsel Assisting the Coroner and represented family members and interested parties. Mr Barrow has also appeared as junior counsel in the High Court and appeared in numerous matters before the Court of Criminal Appeal.

The 2 appointments will support the expansion of the Child Sexual Offence Evidence Program to all District Court locations in NSW. A third judge will be appointed in due course.

The program provides crucial support to child complainants and child prosecution witnesses in sexual offence proceedings. It allows them to have their evidence pre-recorded, with the recording later played in court. This approach aims to reduce the stress and trauma experienced by these children and enables them to complete their evidence at an early stage of the trial. It is expected that more than 140 extra pre-recorded evidence hearings will take place each year.

Grant Brady SC will be sworn in at a ceremonial sitting at 9am on Friday 9 February 2024.

David Barrow SC will be sworn in at 9am on Monday 12 February 2024.

Quotes attributable to the NSW Attorney General Michael Daley:

“I would like to congratulate Mr Brady and Mr Barrow on their appointments to the District Court.

“They are highly credentialed, and their deep experience will be extremely valuable to the Court. I would like to thank them for agreeing to join the bench.”

The NSW Government has today unveiled the draft plans for the new Penrith Stadium, which will transform the precinct into a modern venue for sporting and entertainment.

The NSW Labor Government committed $309 million to the redevelopment of Penrith Stadium as part of the 2023 election. Today marks the first step in delivering on that promise.

The significant stadium upgrade has been designed to improve the game day experience for fans and players and is set to attract visitors from far and wide, creating a superior venue for sports events, live music and entertainment.

The redevelopment will include a new western grandstand and a significantly redeveloped eastern grandstand increasing the ground capacity to 25,000. Grandstands have been reconfigured to maximise seating with premium views between the try lines to be steeper to bring fans closer to the action.

In a win for fans, more food and beverage outlets and amenities will reduce wait times on game days and improve customer experience, as will new scoreboards, sound systems and upgraded lighting.

New player facilities including 4 new change rooms will help grow female representation in rugby league and other sporting codes.

The hills at the northern and southern end of the playing field will be retained, reflecting feedback from over 3000 fans, families and community members. Additionally, the training field to the west of the stadium will be remodelled to create a stadium precinct with quality open space for outdoor community, sporting and entertainment events.

The project will be a boost for Western Sydney and will support local jobs during construction and once it is operating.

The community has been actively involved in shaping the stadium design, which will be placed on exhibition for public comment in coming months, as part of a State Significant Development Application process.

To find out more visit the Penrith Stadium redevelopment project page on the Infrastructure NSW website.

To facilitate the redevelopment, the stadium is expected to close after the 2024 NRL season, and re-open in 2026. Construction timeframes are subject to planning and procurement processes.

Venues NSW will operate the stadium once completed. Venues NSW have a strong track record in successfully operating similar venues across NSW, including Accor Stadium, the SCG, Allianz Stadium, McDonald Jones Stadium, WIN Stadium and CommBank Stadium.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said:

“I am delighted to see the upgraded Penrith Stadium brought to life in these exciting new designs.

“This is a very welcome upgrade to a stadium that has been well loved by the passionate Western Sydney community.

“I cannot wait to see the seats filled as fans come roaring in to enjoy Panthers’ games in the upgraded stadium.”

Minister for Sport and Minister for Small Business Steve Kamper said:

“When complete, Penrith Stadium will be a first-class sporting and entertainment venue for everyone to enjoy.

“The upgraded stadium will be the new beating heart of Penrith, attracting visitors from far and wide, providing a boost to the local economy and building upon the already strong entertainment and sporting culture in Western Sydney. 

“Whilst this stadium will be purpose-built to host women’s and men’s NRL games, it will also cater for rugby union, soccer, live music and other entertainment events.”

Member for Penrith Karen McKeown said:

“I’d like to thank the 3000 fans and families who provided their input to the design process, and I – along with every fan of Western Sydney sport – am so excited to see that the iconic hills at either end of the ground have been saved.

“As Penrith continues to grow, the new Penrith Stadium precinct will be an active hub that the whole community can enjoy.”

Ryde and surrounding communities are a step closer to accessing an enhanced range of health services with the building contractor for the $479 million Ryde Hospital Redevelopment appointed.

The NSW Government investment will deliver a world-class health facility to meet the future health needs of the growing community.

AW Edwards has been appointed the building contractor for the project. Construction is expected to start in mid-2024 and will include the demolition of old buildings, construction of new hospital buildings and refurbishment of existing hospital spaces.

The NSW Government will work closely with the contractor to minimise construction impacts and ensure the hospital remains open throughout the redevelopment.

NSW Health will ensure staff, patients and the community continue to be informed as works progress.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said:

“I am really pleased the Ryde Hospital Redevelopment is moving ahead and will transform healthcare for the local community, providing the growing community the latest facilities and models of care.”

“This project will expand capacity at the hospital, delivering more adult overnight beds, plus it’ll feature a brand-new ED, ICU, operating theatres, a custom-built ambulatory care centre and a paediatric short stay unit.”

“This is a major redevelopment which will provide new and enhanced services within a modern, contemporary facility to ensure patients continue to receive the best possible care.”

Get more information on the Ryde Hospital Redevelopment