Category: NSW News

Expectant parents in Canterbury will soon have access to enhanced and expanded antenatal facilities, with the early works now approved for the Canterbury Hospital Redevelopment.

The Minns Labor Government’s $350 million investment in the Canterbury Hospital Redevelopment will deliver the largest upgrade to the hospital in more than 26 years, helping to meet the current and future healthcare needs of the growing community.

The Coalition failed to deliver or properly fund major health facilities around NSW, leaving parts of the state missing entire hospitals and health systems under severe pressure. The Minns Labor Government is fixing this by delivering more hospitals and more beds to meet the health needs of growing communities.

The early works phase of the Canterbury Hospital Redevelopment will prepare the site for main works construction, and includes the expansion and refurbishment of the existing antenatal department. This will more than double the size of the current antenatal unit and provide families in Canterbury with access to enhanced facilities and care sooner, well ahead of the major works to deliver the broader hospital redevelopment.

The expanded antenatal department will feature new patient areas, including additional ultrasound and consultation rooms. The antenatal department expansion is scheduled for completion in 2027, with the service opening to the community the same year.

Following a competitive tender process, TCQ Construction has been engaged to deliver the early works package.

The scope for the Canterbury Hospital Redevelopment is expected to include:

• a new expanded and enhanced Intensive Care Unit
• new purpose-built adult inpatient accommodation
• expanded and enhanced Emergency Department
• additional surgical theatres
• expanded and enhanced antenatal facilities
• additional ambulatory and outpatient care capacity
• new and enhanced facilities to support clinical education, workforce training, and research
• new Diagnostic Services Unit to support diagnosis and medical condition management
• enhancements to hospital support services, including pathology and pharmacy
• improved accessibility to the campus, including internal access, outdoor spaces, landscaping and wayfinding.

Construction timeframes for the main works will be confirmed as planning progresses and the community will continue to be updated.

The Minns Labor Government is making record investments to deliver more hospitals, more beds and save the health services the Coalition jeopardised.

The 2025-26 NSW Budget included $12.4 billion to deliver 32 new or upgraded hospitals, including:

• $910 million for the new Rouse Hill Hospital – which the Liberals promised and failed to deliver at three elections – and which will include an emergency department as well as birthing services;
• $2 billion for the new Bankstown Hospital – which the Liberals promised in 2019 and failed to deliver;
• $550 million for the Fairfield Hospital Redevelopment;
• $350 million for the Canterbury Hospital Redevelopment;
• $120 million for additional beds for Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospital; and
• $330 million to open the New Eurobodalla Hospital at level 4.

For more information on the Canterbury Hospital Redevelopment and to speak with the team, visit https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/canterbury-hospital-redevelopment

Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“The Minns Labor Government is getting on with the job to deliver the Canterbury Hospital Redevelopment, and we’re pleased that families will be able to access upgraded antenatal facilities ahead of the wider redevelopment being completed.

“The expansion and refurbishment of the hospital’s antenatal department will provide more purpose-built spaces for expectant parents to receive crucial check-ups and support in preparation for birth.

“The Coalition’s failure to deliver on major hospital projects left parts of the state without whole hospitals, health systems under pressure, and jeopardised health services for local communities.

“The Minns Labor Government is making record investments to deliver more hospitals, more beds and more staff, to deliver better outcomes for patients.” 

Member for Canterbury Sophie Cotsis:

“I’m delighted to see the progress of the Canterbury Hospital Redevelopment and the positive impact the upgraded antenatal facilities will have for our local families and our hardworking health staff.

“We’re grateful to the community and staff who’ve taken time to share valuable feedback during the planning and design of this project to help shape our fabulous new hospital redevelopment.

“More than 1,000 people recently took part in consultation to inform early works planning, highlighting the strong interest in this significant redevelopment that will serve our community now and into the future.” 

Member for Summer Hill Jo Haylen:

“I’m so proud to see the Canterbury Hospital Redevelopment taking shape, these upgraded antenatal facilities are going to make a real difference for local families and for the incredible staff who care for them every day.

This project has been shaped by the people who know this hospital best. We’ve listened to our community and our frontline health workers right through the planning and design to make this hospital work for our community. 

These upgrades will make sure that our community has access to world-class healthcare close to home for generations to come”

Member for Jason Yat-Sen Li:

‘Families in Canterbury deserve the very best start in life, and that begins with access to world-class healthcare close to home.

‘The expansion of Canterbury Hospital’s antenatal facilities is a major step forward for our community, ensuring expectant parents have the support, space and care they need during such a crucial time. These new facilities will mean a very much more comfortable experience for families.

‘This investment is about putting people first and making sure that every parent and every newborn gets the care they deserve. I’m proud to see our government delivering on its promise to strengthen local health services and invest in the future of our community.’

Sydney Local Health District Chief Executive Deb Willcox:

“Expanding and upgrading Canterbury Hospital’s antenatal services in advance of the main works will make a meaningful difference for expectant mothers and their families.

“This will allow our maternity teams to provide antenatal care that is more comfortable, timely and tailored to each woman’s specific needs. We’re proud to deliver improvements that support a better experience for families as the broader Hospital redevelopment progresses.”

The Minns Labor Government is kicking off vital work today to secure the future of the heritage listed Cooreei Bridge over the Williams River east of Dungog.

The Minns Labor Government is investing $7.3 million to rehabilitate this historic landmark on Stroud Hill Road – preserving a critical road link and preserving an iconic piece of the region’s history for generations to come.

Cooreei Bridge, which is listed on the NSW State Heritage Register, is the first Henry Harvey Dare-type timber bridge built in NSW and one of only 15 historic bridges built in the Hunter before 1905.

The project involves replacing the bridge’s dilapidated timber abutments with concrete, giving the bridge the strength it needs into the future.

Preparation work started in late 2025, with the project expected to take around 16 months to complete, weather permitting.

While most of the work will be carried out underneath the span, the bridge will need to be temporarily closed at times to allow replacement of the abutments and reconnection of the bridge to Stroud Hill Road.

Transport for NSW will try to limit closures to minimise disruption to the community and will be notified in advance.

During the closures, all motorists will be detoured via Alison Road, Clarence Town Road, Mary Street and Dowling Street, which adds around 30 minutes to journeys.

Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley:

“Cooreei Bridge is part of the Hunter’s story, and we’re making sure it has a future.

“This $7.3 million investment protects a critical local link while preserving one of the region’s most important heritage bridges.

“The Minns Labor Government will strengthen the bridge, keep the community connected and ensure this landmark can serve Dungog for generations to come.”

Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison:

“This project is a major investment in both local infrastructure and the preservation of a unique piece of the region’s heritage.

“We know how important connectivity is for the Dungog community. As the last stop on the Hunter train line and a key crossing over the Williams River, I’m proud to announce the start of this important rehabilitation work which will ensure this iconic timber truss bridge is fit for purpose for many years to come.”

Labor Spokesperson for Upper Hunter, Emily Suvaal:

“It’s great to see this important project underway.

“Projects like this show you don’t have to choose between preserving our history and delivering safe, “reliable infrastructure – you can and should do both.

“By strengthening Cooreei Bridge while protecting its heritage, we’re making sure this local connection remains open and dependable for the community now and into the future.”

New Aboriginal-led Digital Inclusion Hubs will soon be rolled out across NSW, helping to close the digital divide and connect communities to essential services. 

The pilot will support community-led spaces designed to meet the needs of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. 

Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) have been invited to apply for funding to establish and deliver these hubs, which will help people get online, build digital skills and stay connected to essential services.

Eligible ACCOs can apply for grants of up to $250,000 over 18 months to deliver services like digital skills training, targeted learning programs, access to devices, and connectivity support. 

This NSW Government investment comes as the Australian Digital Inclusion Index shows Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people score 10.5 points lower than non-Indigenous Australians when it comes to getting online, affording internet and devices and using digital services confidently. 

This gap widens further in regional and remote areas to 16.5 points lower, dropping to 22.8 points for very remote areas. 

More than 40 per cent of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are considered to be digitally excluded or highly excluded – almost double the rate of the entire nation. 

Funding will be delivered through the Closing the Gap initiative in partnership with BlaQ Aboriginal Corporation, ensuring programs are shaped by community priorities.

By addressing digital exclusion at a local level, this initiative advances the NSW Digital Inclusion Strategy’s key aim to make digital services accessible, inclusive, safe and connected for everyone in NSW. It also directly supports Closing the Gap Socio-Economic Outcome 17. 

Applications are open to eligible ACCOs in NSW until 15 May via SmartyGrants. More information is available at: https://digitalinclusionhubs.smartygrants.com.au/digitalinclusion

Customer Service and Digital Government Minister, Jihad Dib said:

“Digital inclusion is a necessity for daily life, whether it’s accessing essential services, pursuing education, or staying connected with family, culture and community.

“Access to the digital world shouldn’t depend on where you live or your background. These hubs will give Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities the tools, skills and support to connect and participate online.

“This is about backing community-led solutions. Aboriginal organisations know what works for their communities, and these hubs will be designed and delivered by them, for them.

“The hubs embody the vision of the NSW Digital Inclusion Strategy, giving everyone the confidence and access to use digital services.” 

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, David Harris said:

“Supporting Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations is how we make real, practical progress in improving peoples’ day-to-day lives.

“The Digital Inclusion Hubs are about more than technology, they’re about self-determination, opportunity and ensuring communities can fully participate in today’s digital society.

“By backing Aboriginal-led, community-driven solutions, we ensure Closing the Gap outcomes truly reflect local priorities and needs.”

Managing Director of Telco Authority, Kylie De Courteney said:

“The NSW Digital Inclusion Strategy is about ensuring people can participate fully in a digital society, and that starts with confidence, access and trust. By working in partnership with Aboriginal-led organisations, we’re supporting solutions that are community-owned, sustainable and responsive to real digital needs.

“Digital Inclusion Hubs help remove barriers that place communities at risk of digital exclusion, supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to connect with essential services, education and opportunities in ways that are practical, relevant and sustainable.

“These hubs can help communities build confidence using digital tools, access online services and create pathways to education and employment, all in ways that work locally.” 

Drivers in Sydney’s South face further delays after the Minns Labor Government confirmed the M6 contractor has missed the 1 May default notice deadline and can’t say when construction will resume. 
 
Shadow Minister for Roads Mark Coure said the Government’s update from Minister Jenny Aitchison offered confirmation of failure but no path forward. 
 
“The $3.1 billion project has stalled again and as a result families, tradies and other commuters face more delays,” Mr Coure said. 
 
“Today’s statement confirms what many feared, the deadline has come and gone, and the Government still doesn’t have control of this project,” he said. 
 
“Drivers have no answers as to what happens next and that’s just not good enough.” 
 
Mr Coure said the Minister’s silence in the weeks leading up to the deadline, followed by a statement with no concrete next steps, exposed the Government’s inability to manage the project. 
 
“Minister Aitchison made a lot of noise about bringing the contractor to heel, only to go missing when it counts,” he said. 
 
“This project has been stuck in limbo for more than two years, and people in Southern Sydney are tired of excuses and more delays,” he said. 
 
“Drivers have been waiting for far too long for this road. They deserve clear answers, not radio silence from this government.” 
 
Mr Coure called on Labor to outline the next steps, including whether legal action will be pursued and when construction will properly resume. 
 
“The Minns Labor Government cannot keep kicking the can down the road and hoping that this problem will resolve itself, we need decisive action and a clear plan for how they intend to fix this mess.” 

The Minns Labor Government is marking another milestone on the Warringah Freeway Upgrade, with a series of traffic switches taking place this weekend including a local dedicated southbound bus lane that will mean safer and more efficient journeys for thousands of commuters travelling into the Sydney CBD.

The 2.2km bus lane, running from just south of the Miller Street overpass uninterrupted into the city, is a major step forward in improving traffic flow on one of Australia’s busiest transport corridors.

It will cut travel times for bus commuters coming from the North Shore, reduce congestion and improve safety for 250,000 motorists who use the Warringah Freeway each day.  

The uninterrupted bus lane means bus drivers no longer need to navigate two merges with general traffic to merge from left to right to access the bus lane from the north. Cars and other vehicles will also no longer be able to cross the bus lane between Falcon Street and the Cahill Expressway.

The Falcon Street/Military Road southbound bus onramp which has been temporarily shared with general traffic since it opened in November 2025, will also now operate as a bus only lane. This will ensure a smoother journey for thousands of commuters coming from Mosman to the CBD.

These changes will deliver faster and more reliable travel times for buses between the Gore Hill Freeway and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, particularly during the morning and afternoon peak periods.

In addition to the new bus lane, new traffic changes coming into place from 6:00am on Saturday, 2 May will play a major role in unscrambling traffic along the freeway, removing unnecessary merges and lane changes.

Drivers are being encouraged to familiarise themselves with the changes ahead of making their journey to help reduce congestion and ensure a smooth and safe transition.

Transport for NSW has worked to ensure the community is aware of changed traffic conditions through the roll out of digital signage, email updates,  letterbox drops and Live Traffic updates. Transport for NSW is also working with map providers, such as Google Maps and Apple Maps to ensure maps are up to date.

The major traffic switches include:

• The Falcon Street/Military Road southbound on ramp will retain access to the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Harbour Tunnel. There will be no access to the Cahill Expressway and Alfred Street off ramp.   
• Drivers can reach the Cahill Expressway via Miller Street or Mount Street, and access North Sydney and Kirribilli via Miller Street and the Pacific Highway. Drivers may consider using Sydney Harbour Tunnel, which has a similar destination to the Cahill Expressway.
• The Ernest Street southbound on ramp will become a dedicated access point for the Sydney Harbour Tunnel only. Access to the Sydney Harbour Bridge will continue via Brook Street, Miller Street, Falcon Street, and Mount Street on ramps.
• The ‘slip lane’ connecting the southbound Sydney Harbour Tunnel lanes to the Sydney Harbour Bridge – located just south of the Ridge Street shared user bridge – will close permanently. Motorists will no longer be able to cross from the inner freeway lanes to the outer lanes to avoid entering the Sydney Harbour Tunnel.
• Drivers travelling from further north, including the Gore Hill Freeway and Lane Cove Tunnel, will need to select either the Sydney Harbour Bridge or Sydney Harbour Tunnel lanes around 1km earlier in their journey. The final decision point is located just after the Miller Street overpass, adjacent to the Western Harbour Tunnel portal.
• Over-height (greater than 4.4 metres) and dangerous goods vehicles must keep left before reaching the Miller Street bridge, as these vehicles cannot use the Sydney Harbour Tunnel. They must not use Ernest Street on-ramp and must use Falcon Street or Miller Street on ramps to join the freeway for Sydney Harbour Bridge and Cahill Expressway.
• The reversible lane south of Miller Street will continue to operate during the weekday morning peak, approximately 5:30am to 9:30am, providing an additional southbound lane to the Sydney Harbour Bridge. This lane can be accessed from the right most lane just after Miller Street and is supported by digital signage.

For the latest traffic updates or to plan your journey, call 132 701, visit livetraffic.com, or download the Live Traffic NSW app.

For driver animation videos and further information go to: Warringah Freeway Upgrade

Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison, said:

“This is a major step forward as we continue the phased opening of the Warringah Freeway Upgrade.

“These changes will simplify this key corridor, delivering safer journeys for the 250,000 motorists who use this corridor daily.

“These changes remove cars from the entire stretch of the southbound bus lane, eliminating the weaving movements that slowed buses down, delivering a smoother, safer, more efficient journey for the 150,000 bus passengers who travel along the Warringah Freeway.

“But I want to be clear, these changes will mean the journey will look a little different for drivers, particularly around how they access the bridge, the tunnel and the city.

“Some familiar routes will no longer be available, and motorists will need to plan ahead and choose their route earlier than they may be used to.

“That’s why we’re asking all drivers to pay close attention to signage, allow extra travel time, and be patient as everyone adapts to the new layout.

“Our focus is on getting more people where they need to go, safely and efficiently, and this is an important step in making that happen.”

Transport for NSW Coordinator General, Howard Collins, said:

“Any driver who will be using the Warringah Freeway city bound after the weekend may face changes to their journey. It is critical drivers understand the changes, which is why we have released a series of practical driver-view animations and moving maps to show motorists the changes.

“Drivers will need to make earlier decisions about whether they’re heading for the bridge or the tunnel and some who use Ernest Street and Falcon Street/Military Road will have access to the bridge or tunnel changed with the final decision point now just after the Miller Street overpass.

“It is particularly important that overheight trucks, or trucks carrying dangerous goods, do not get into lanes for the Sydney Harbour Tunnel.

“Overheight truck drivers must not use Ernest St southbound on-ramp which will only allow access to the Sydney Harbour Tunnel. For those travelling from further north, they must stay in the left lanes after West Street to head towards the bridge and avoid travelling to the tunnel.

“Road users know their regular journeys unconsciously, but we urge them to break internal mapping habits and get to know their journey ahead of time. This will help reduce last minute lane changes and congestion.

“Some GPS apps and devices, may take some time to update.

“Tolls are the same whether you’re crossing the harbour via Sydney Harbour Tunnel, Sydney Harbour Bridge or Cahill Expressway. So, if you do accidentally end up crossing the wrong way, this won’t change for you.

“We know that the changes may take some getting used to but we’re asking drivers to plan ahead, be patient as they adjust to the new layout and take extra care while travelling through the area.”

Preparations are already underway for future severe weather events as a busy storm season comes to an end, with State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers responding to more than 23,000 calls and 1,500 flood related incidents.  

With the weather outlook predicted to be relatively stable for the coming months, including below average rainfall forecast for May, preparations continue to ensure NSW remains ready for storms and rainy weather.

Storm seasons traditionally extend between September to April when the frequency of severe thunderstorms, strong winds and heavy rainfall increases.

As weather seasons become less predictable, the Minns Labor Government has urged communities to always be prepared for unsettled weather.

In readiness, disaster response and recovery operations across the state are being bolstered as the SES delivers 11 new specialised High Clearance Vehicles (HCV), a combined investment of more than $11 million.

The addition of these new High Clearance Vehicles brings the total number in the NSW SES to 20, more than doubling the fleet of vehicles available to help volunteers access isolated communities and perform critical rescues during flooding.

This boost to the fleet is part of the NSW Government’s ongoing investment in the NSW SES, providing volunteers with the equipment they need to keep communities safe.

Today the new vehicles were at Revesby Beach for final preparations before being dispatched to their new homes across the State. This financial year, the Government has delivered 131 new fleet assets to the SES including 44 new vehicles, 23 vessels and 64 trailers.

High Clearance Vehicles are designed to operate in extreme off-road conditions and through floodwaters up to 1.2 metres deep, enabling SES crews to complete rescues, deliver essential supplies and support other emergency services in remote and hard-to-reach locations.

As one of the most advanced flood operations vehicles in Australia, the new vehicles enhance crew protection and safety for rescued persons with a fitted canopy and side seating, while protecting equipment in harsh environments with sealed and pressurised underbody storage. They also increase operational safety and visibility with a significantly upgraded scene lighting package.

Some of the new vehicles also have the capability to carry and load heavy supplies or equipment using an integrated crane, which will strengthen resupply and recovery missions.

This storm season, NSW SES responded to more than 1,500 flood-related incidents, with many requiring vehicles that can get through deep water and reach people in remote or cut-off areas.

The HCV vehicles are being delivered to multiple flood and storm hotspots across the state including Broken Hill, Coffs Harbour, Dubbo, Forbes, Goulburn, Ku-ring-gai, Mid North Coast, Moruya, Murwillumbah, Tamworth and Wagga Wagga, and can be deployed out of area during severe weather events.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:

“I would like to thank our NSW SES volunteers for their dedicated efforts this storm season, and the community for heeding the advice of emergency services.

“The work doesn’t end here for the SES and this multimillion-dollar investment by the Government ensures volunteers are equipped with purpose-built fleet to keep communities safe all year round.

“These 11 new high clearance vehicles will make a significant difference to communities across NSW and by placing them in key locations we can pre-deploy them or respond quickly during storms to bring rapid help when people need it most.

“I know they will make a real difference protecting communities and supporting our volunteers.”

NSW SES Commissioner Mike Wassing AFSM said:

“This investment brings our total number of High Clearance Vehicles to 20 and represents a significant step forward in our flood and disaster response capability.”

“We’ve worked closely with our volunteers and technical experts to ensure these designs meet the realities of field operations and the unique challenges we face here in NSW.

“Whether it’s wading through more than a metre of floodwater, navigating fire trails, or delivering supplies to residents cut off by floodwaters, this new fleet means that help will arrive faster when communities need it most.”

Thanks, Anna, what a privilege to be here, following the Prime Minister with so many distinguished speakers and guests. Thanks, Simon and your team from this beautiful airport.

Can I also acknowledge the traditional owners, the Dharug people, and thank the Telegraph for hosting such an important discussion about the future of Western Sydney.

I’m very proud to stand here in Western Sydney and see a sea change in this community, both in the built environment and in how Western Sydney is perceived by Australia, Australians and people from around the world.

And that is, as a thriving, energetic and optimistic community of hard working families and entrepreneurs with the belief that whatever life throws up at them, no matter how hard and how difficult, they’ll beat it and be stronger for the experience.

For the first time in generations, we’re seeing new developments, housing developments and opportunities in Western Sydney communities that perhaps would never have been contemplated 30 or 40 years ago.

The numbers are staggering. For example, my government is spending in Western Sydney on infrastructure a whopping $30 billion over our forward estimates.

I’ve got no doubt that this would not have happened without a concerted and persistent campaign from The Daily Telegraph focusing, in particular, on Western Sydney, that began with their landmark ‘Fair Go for the West’ campaign, which I think was launched in 2014.

That focus and repeated follow ups in the paper and online has seen governments of both political persuasions have their feet held to the fire when it comes to making sure that communities are both liveable and have access to world class infrastructure.

Not a second class set of a future for this beautiful part of the world.

Because these suburbs are not just places where families travel from but live in. With access to jobs, schools, hospitals and amenities like parks, all while being able to access the rest of our beautiful city.

I’m proud to say that our government has been able to write the next chapter in this book, and I’d humbly say, it’s a long read.

Where we meet today, a magnificent new international airport.

Three brand new metro lines that feed into Western Sydney communities, with an additional 25 metro stations, connecting Parramatta to the City, the Northwest to the Southwest, and opening up this brand new airport to the rest of Sydney.

$7 billion for better roads at 15th avenue to this airport at Mamre Road, Henry Lawson Drive, Home Bush Bay Drive, Richmond Road and Garfield Road.

A new Riverside theatre and a new arts centre for Campbelltown, and as of today, a fully completed Powerhouse Museum, one of the biggest museums in the entire world, ready to welcome 2 million visitors to Parramatta.

I have to say, though, that sleek infrastructure, which looks amazing on a pamphlet, spectacular on a digital artist’s impression and eye catching on a media release, is only part of the infrastructure story for Western Sydney, and it’s the glossy part.

What’s been neglected in Western Sydney communities for too long is the elementary infrastructure that provides the must have services every community needs.

The schools, the hospitals, the essential suburban roads that make life bearable and provide the services that a suburb of families desperately need.

If you get on the Sydney Metro heading northwest, and you ride it to the end of the line, you hit the suburb called Tallawong.

Tallawong is a Dharug word, and it means apple gum tree. And until recently, when you were there, that’s all you saw apple gum trees.

Now that’s all about to change, and a decade on, when the area has been rezoned for thousands of residential homes, it’s a completely transformed community.

Now I’m not going to knock that decision, we needed to do it.

And in a city like Sydney, the second most expensive city on Earth, young families jumped at the prospect of moving into these beautiful new communities.

When they paid their deposit, Tallawong was still a paddock on the edge of town.

A school was promised, but unfortunately, never delivered.

And when the change of government occurred in 2023 the kids of Tallawong were learning into mountains that were located in playgrounds of the neighbouring school in Riverstone.

But I’m happy to say, thanks to the tenacity of the Parents and Friends Committee at the school and the enterprising persistence of the Deputy Premier and the Minister for Education – and can I also say, a proud Westie, Prue Car – Tallawong Public School finally opened its gates last week.

I was there on the first day with Prue, the first day on a new term. And let me tell you, I’ve never seen kids so happy to turn up to school on the first day after a holiday.

And I think the reason for that was that a permanent school facility had finally taken place.

Tallawong is not just a housing development, it’s a community.

And now they’re going to be the first generation to build in that community.

We believe that should have happened far sooner.

Last week, many of you may have seen that the ICAC published a report into school infrastructure, and it found that public servants have been directed to change population data with the effect, and I quote, “of diverting funds away from the northwest and southwest of Sydney and those educational corridors.”

It wasn’t just Tallawong. It was Gregory Hills, Melonba, Nirimba Fields, new suburbs all across the southwest and the northwest of Sydney, where the population has grown – get this – by 500%.

But the truth is, the infrastructure didn’t follow. Now we’re talking about the must haves, the basic expectations of life in a civilised, wealthy society like ours in Australia.

In 2021, 6000 people lived in Box Hill. When the new housing developments are complete, there will be 42,000.

Recently, a young woman who lived in Box Hill named Mikayla told me her story.

As many young people do, Mikayla had moved into the suburb after happily falling pregnant.

One night, at four o’clock in the morning, she began giving birth. And because she lived in Box Hill, and because there was no maternity ward nearby, she had to drive to Westmead, along old Windsor Road, which could take up to an hour even early in the morning.

Now it was close, but she got there. And in the end of a terrifying drive, she arrived at Westmead, and Mikayla had a little baby daughter.

A nearby hospital at Rouse Hill had been promised – get this – for 12 years.

And I’m pleased to announce that we’ve cut the red tape, allocated the money, and Rouse Hill Hospital is finally under construction.

And with the support of the federal government, the Albanese government, it will include a full maternity ward so that new mums don’t have the same experiences as Mikayla on that traumatising drive for what is essential care for every community.

I think it’s important that we remember these stories when we talk about the future of Western Sydney.

If you don’t have a school to send your kids to, if you’re worried about giving birth on the side of a road, if you’re sitting in traffic all morning along Fifteenth Avenue, then those plans, the plans for a city like this, have a massive hole in them.

We’re currently delivering the biggest infrastructure program over a four-year period in the history of New South Wales for Western Sydney.

It means eight brand new high schools and seven brand new public primary schools built from scratch just in those growth corridors alone.

That includes a new high school in Jordan Springs, which topped out just yesterday.

It includes 49 new public preschools, six of which will be in Campbelltown, five in Liverpool, five in Leppington. 90% of them are currently under construction.

And I’ve met a lot of the builders, most of whom are from Western Sydney, that are hard at work building those new public preschools, and they’re doing an incredible job.

When it comes to healthcare, it’s a new hospital in Rouse Hill, a new hospital in Bankstown, 10 other major hospital upgrades, including big developments in Canterbury and Fairfield.

Plus, 1100 nurses, 300 doctors and 73 paramedics to staff these beautiful new hospitals.

These are the essentials, but you need to provide the funds, and they need to be done just right.

We’re battling difficult times for families right now, the Middle East conflict, rising inflation, rising interest rates, increases to the family budget as a result of fuel escalating, all put massive pressure on Western Sydney families.

And that’s particularly tough for what is statistically a young community with lots of families in there.

I think it’s important to inject a note of reality or caution when it comes to spending also.

Governments, both here and around the world, are battling higher borrowing costs alongside eye watering debt accumulated partly through the pandemic and partly in the run up to the last state election.

As a result, we need to be somewhat wary of undoubtedly well meaning, but sometimes naive promises made about new projects without identifying how they’ll be built and how they’ll be paid for.

You’ve probably heard that familiar refrain, you can’t afford not to do it, or sure, it’s a large sum, but in the end, it’ll actually save you money.

Now that’s all well and good, and sometimes those arguments do make sense, but we do need to ask the question, is this code for bending accounting rules and worrying about the costs later on?

Because that’s how your state, your budget, your government gets into serious trouble.

Money borrowed must be paid back, and whilst everyone wants to hand over life changing infrastructure to the next generation, we can’t, at the same time, hand over a mortgage that cannot be paid off by young Australians who live in Western Sydney and other parts of the state.

It would be the worst inheritance of all.

So where does that leave us. Not with blanket opposition to new builds, or an end to the infrastructure pipeline that’s critical for Sydney’s growth and the enabling infrastructure that enables new houses to be built.

What it means is that when a new infrastructure idea is advocated, the question on everybody’s lips should be, look, it sounds great, but tell me how we’re going to pay for it.

You’re not being a killjoy or a party pooper when you ask these fundamental questions.

It’s essential in ensuring that infrastructure is sustainable and that there is a long term plan for deliverable projects that will continue to drive not just Western Sydney’s economy, but Australia’s economy.

For me, I’m determined to lead a government that has a reputation for delivering what it promises.

To be frank, that’s particularly important for a state Labor government and a Labor Premier with many having memories, particularly in Western Sydney, of phantom projects that were announced but never delivered.

The public’s entitled to know that if it’s promised, it is coming, and the truth is, we don’t have a choice.

We have to deliver.

Because if we break our promises, if we encourage people to move to new suburbs, if we ask them to make the biggest investment in their lives on a town or a suburb or a community and then yank the rug out from underneath them, they’ll lose faith in a growing city.

And they’ll lose faith in governments of all political persuasions.

You’d have also seen that we’ve consciously made a decision to build more houses closer to the city, so all that wasn’t being piled in the Western Sydney suburbs.

Now that’s obviously annoyed some people, often they live closer to the city.

But we did it to give these communities, particularly in Western Sydney, a chance to breathe. A chance to establish themselves, and most importantly, a chance to catch up on much needed infrastructure.

We need to go beyond the idea that these suburbs are just places to commute from, to leave, as if they’re satellites orbiting around a much bigger central city.

Today, we’ve seen the Powerhouse Museum at Parramatta officially finished construction.

For young kids growing up, that museum will say you can live in Parramatta, you can live in Western Sydney, and you don’t have to travel into the city or to other cities to see amazing exhibitions.

Last week, on the first day of Tallawong primary, one of the parents said that his child was so excited she’d started dreaming about the new school.

It’s hard to dream about a demountable classroom on a basketball court, and the truth is we need to do better.

We can help our kids dream big, particularly kids here in Western Sydney.

We can give them the best start in life.

We can give them a chance to write their own chapter in the history of the best city on Earth.

Thanks so much.

The Minns Labor Government today announced a major construction milestone at Powerhouse Parramatta, with the museum now having reached completion and exhibition fit outs now well and truly underway ahead of opening later this year.

After more than four years of work, Powerhouse Parramatta has emerged as Western Sydney’s first state cultural institution and the largest museum ever built in New South Wales set to drive jobs, tourism and a huge economic boost in Western Sydney.

Construction has already delivered strong economic benefits, with over 4,000 workers contributing to over 2.7 million hours of work, three-quarters of which were from Western Sydney.

Local businesses also played a major role, with more than $329 million in contracts going directly to Western Sydney businesses.

The impressive internal spaces of the museum are now complete, revealing the scale and ambition of Powerhouse’s visitor experience which is expected to attract millions of visitors to Western Sydney every year.

Powerhouse Parramatta features seven expansive exhibition spaces including one of the largest exhibition spaces in Australia and will host major international and Australian exhibitions alongside a demonstration kitchen, and a rooftop terrace and garden with sweeping views across Parramatta.

With more than 18,000 square metres of public and exhibition space, Powerhouse Parramatta will offer unparalleled access to the museum’s collection alongside important objects and stories from across Australia and around the world. 

Powerhouse Parramatta will feature the Lang Walker Family Academy, 60 bed accommodation for NSW regional and Western Sydney school students to undertake immersive STEM programs, with over 10,000 NSW public school students to participate in the program each year.

Work is now focused on installing exhibitions across the museum, as well as completing final public domain areas, with Powerhouse Parramatta expected to open later this year. Task Eternal, one of the most ambitious aerospace exhibitions ever staged in the world, is one of five major exhibitions that will open when Powerhouse Parramatta first opens its doors.

Once open, Powerhouse Parramatta will be a major new cultural destination for NSW and is expected to welcome two million national and international visitors each year.

Powerhouse Parramatta is the first public building in Australia and the first project in Western Sydney to be assessed as a 6 Star Designed project under the Green Building Council of Australia’s new Green Star Buildings assessment tool.

The Powerhouse Parramatta was a project funded under the former Liberal Government and delivered by the Minns Labor Government.

For more information about the project, visit: https://powerhouseparramatta.insw.com

Minister for the Arts John Graham said:

“Powerhouse Parramatta is the largest cultural project delivered in NSW since the Sydney Opera House and the first major state cultural institution built in Western Sydney.

“With the building now finished, the focus turns to bringing exhibitions to life and preparing to welcome visitors into this extraordinary new cultural home for Western Sydney.”

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“Reaching completion at Powerhouse Parramatta is a huge milestone and a proud moment for Western Sydney.

“This project has already delivered thousands of jobs and backed local businesses, and now we’re one step closer to opening the doors to a world-class cultural destination that will inspire future generations and drive tourism and economic growth for years to come.”

Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis said:

“The people of Parramatta are watching the Powerhouse drawing closer and closer to completion.

“When it opens later this year it will truly change our city. The ambition of this museum matches the ambition of the people of Parramatta, and I can’t wait to see it.”

CEO Construction Lendlease Stephanie Graham said:

“The completion of building works at Powerhouse Parramatta marks a significant milestone, an iconic addition to Western Sydney and a world-class cultural destination.

“Through strong partnerships and local capability, not only have we brought this landmark to life, but exceeded our targets for local employment, diversity and community impact to create a place that will inspire future generations.”

David Borger, Powerhouse Trust President said:

“Powerhouse Parramatta will be transformative for Western Sydney. 

“We are proud and excited to be working towards opening this internationally important new museum, that will showcase the innovation of NSW and Australia and become embedded into the identity of Western Sydney.”

Ms Kalina Koloff has been appointed as the state’s new Small Business Commissioner.

With more than 20 years’ experience spanning the public, private and not-for-profit sectors, Ms Koloff brings a wealth of expertise in strategy, stakeholder engagement and economic resilience to the position. Her background is uniquely suited to the role – she is an experienced small business owner and most recently served as the NSW Cross-Border Commissioner.

As Small Business Commissioner, Ms Koloff will lead a dedicated team tasked with improving the economic and regulatory environment for the state’s small business sector. Established under the NSW Small Business Commissioner Act 2013, the Commission serves as a vital advocate, ensuring the interests of small businesses are represented at the highest levels of government.

Ms Koloff’s distinguished career includes leading major recovery programs following the Black Summer bushfires and negotiating landmark cross-border agreements between NSW and neighbouring states and territories. She has also owned and operated several small business enterprises across the professional services, consulting and hospitality industries.

Ms Koloff will formally commence her term on 25 May 2026. Ms Catherine Ellis, who has served as Acting Small Business Commissioner during the recruitment process, will remain in the role until Ms Koloff starts.

To find out more about the role of the NSW Small Business Commission, go to smallbusiness.nsw.gov.au

Minister for Small Business Janelle Saffin said:

“I am delighted to welcome Kalina Koloff as the new NSW Small Business Commissioner. Her extensive experience in both the public sector and as a business owner ensures she has the perspective needed to champion our state’s small business community.

“Ms Koloff’s proven track record in business and working across all levels of government will be an incredible asset as we continue striving to reduce red tape and foster a more resilient business environment.

“I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to Ms Catherine Ellis for her dedicated service as Acting Commissioner. Her leadership has provided vital stability and support for our small businesses throughout this transition period.”

Incoming Small Business Commissioner Kalina Koloff said:

“I am looking forward to connecting with the breadth of small businesses across NSW and to working with them to highlight key challenges and resolve long-standing issues.

“Small business is at the heart of the NSW economy and I am committed to supporting them to do what they do best, even in difficult and uncertain times.”

The Minns Labor Government will today welcome 349 new probationary constables into the NSW Police Force, with Class 368 attesting at the Goulburn Police Academy.

The record-breaking class is the largest to join the NSW Police Force in more than 13 years, highlighting the Government’s commitment to rebuilding and boosting frontline resources across the state.

Today’s ceremony recognises that our newest officers have officially completed their eight months of training through the Constable Education Program and will now begin 12 months of on-the-job training as probationary constables.

Class 368 will be deployed to Police Area Commands and Police Districts across NSW, including:

• Central Metropolitan Region – 89
• South West Metropolitan Region – 72
• North West Metropolitan Region – 66
• Northern Region – 62
• Southern Region – 31
• Western Region – 29

The class includes 90 women, 20 First Nations recruits, and officers born in 20 different countries – reflecting the communities they will now serve.

This attestation builds on the previous record-breaking Class 366, which saw 314 recruits sworn in last August – then the largest class in more than a decade.

The milestone is further evidence that the Minns Labor Government’s police recruitment reforms are gaining momentum, including paid study for recruits, a once-in-a-generation pay rise, the Be a Cop In Your Hometown program and the Professional Mobility Program.

It also comes as the first intake of cadets trainees prepare to start in our police stations next Monday under the NSW Police Force Cadet Traineeship Program.

The 12-month pilot program gives school leavers and young adults hands-on experience in policing, with cadet trainees rotating through general duties, detectives unit, crime prevention and Police Transport Command.

Cadet trainees will gain early exposure to policing culture, values and expectations, complete a Certificate III in Business and be supported to apply for further study and training at the Police Academy.

The first cadet trainee pilot program will operate in The Hills Police Area Command and Sutherland Shire Police Area Command.

The Minns Labor Government’s work to rebuild the NSW Police Force includes:

• Delivering a once-in-a-generation pay rise for police officers
• Paying recruits to train at the Goulburn Police Academy
• Establishing the ‘Be a Cop In Your Hometown’ program
• Establishing the Professional Mobility Program to attract experienced officers from interstate and New Zealand
• Establishing the Cadet Traineeship Program to create a new early pathway into policing
• Establishing the Health, Safety and Wellbeing Command to support officers across their careers

NSW Premier, Chris Minns said:

“Today, 349 new probationary constables join the NSW Police Force – the largest class in more than a decade.

“For every community, this means a stronger police force, fit for the job today and into the future.

“You can’t make the job of a cop safe, you just need good, brave people willing to step up.”

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

“To every officer attesting today, and every family standing behind them: thank you. NSW backs you, NSW is grateful, and we wish you a long, safe and rewarding career.

“Every one of these 349 officers represents more support for the frontline and more protection for communities right across the state – and each of them have chosen duty, service and the responsibility of keeping NSW safe.

“The Minns Government is proud to be rebuilding the NSW Police Force. For too long, the former government failed to invest properly in our police. They capped wages, let recruitment slide and left the Force under pressure – and we know thousands of experienced officers left because it.

“There is more to do, but the momentum is real – the last class broke a 13-year record, and this class has broken it again.”

NSW Police Force Commissioner, Mal Lanyon said:

“It is my privilege today to welcome part of a new generation of officers who will shape the future of the NSW Police Force,” Commissioner Lanyon said.

“Each recruit has already shown discipline, courage and commitment to becoming a police officer and I’m confident in their ability to serve the communities they have been placed in.

“I am proud to welcome the recruits to a career that will demand a lot of them but one that will make an impact.”