Category: NSW News

Netball NSW is proud to announce the athletes selected in the 2025 Regional Emerging Talent Team, part of the broader Emerging Talent Program that identifies and supports the next generation of netball stars across Regional, Metro, and First Nations pathways.

Twelve athletes from across New South Wales have been named in this year’s Regional Team, recognised for their skill, dedication, and potential to progress to Netball NSW’s underage 17/U and 19/U State Teams.
Recognising the tyranny of distance, additional travel and accommodation costs, and the commitment required from regional families, Netball NSW is deeply committed to breaking down barriers and nurturing talent from across the state.

“This program gives our regional athletes the opportunity to step into a high-performance environment and see what’s required at the next level,” said Mardi Aplin, General Manager – Performance and Pathways at Netball NSW.

“By bringing them into Sydney for training, we’re able to provide the same quality of coaching, education, and support as their metro counterparts-ensuring an even playing field and a clear pathway to future success.”

Throughout the five-week program, the regional athletes train as part of a 36-athlete performance cohort, coming together for a mix of on-court sessions and off-court education. These sessions are led by Netball NSW’s top coaches and performance staff and are designed to expose athletes to the intensity, preparation, and mindset required at the elite level.

Regional athletes receive targeted support tailored to their specific needs and challenges. This includes training in performance analysis, helping them learn how to review and self-assess their own games at home; education in nutrition and recovery strategies, especially relevant for those who travel long distances to train and compete; access to physiotherapy and injury-prevention resources; and structured workshops in high-performance behaviours designed to build habits for success both on and off the court.

Bringing regional athletes to Sydney ensures they are immersed in a true high-performance training environment, while still being able to connect with teammates and coaches from their home areas.

“While they wear different colours during the tri-series tournament, all Emerging Talent athletes train and grow together,” said Aplin. “It’s not just about skills on the court, it’s about building the confidence, resilience, and behaviours needed to thrive in our sport.”

Athletes in the Regional Emerging Talent Team were identified through a range of talent ID platforms, including Senior State Titles, Regional Academies of Sport, and previous state trials.

The program not only supports athletes but also contributes to long-term talent identification for Netball NSW’s state teams, ensuring that regional athletes are front and centre as selectors look toward future state and national squads.

“We know that talent is everywhere – and this program is about making sure opportunity is too.”

2025 Netball NSW Regional Squad

ATHLETE FULL NAME NETBALL ASSOCIATION 1ST 2ND
Ava Francisco Dubbo GD WD
Chloe Eyles Charlestown GA GS
Emma McCallum Lakeside C WD
Eve Power Newcastle GD WD
Gemma Humphery Illawarra District GA GS
Isabella Christian Illawarra District WD C
Jade Stringer Lakeside GA WA
Molly Brownell Maitland GS GA
Molly Stephen Wagga Wagga WA C
Paiton Cook Newcastle WA C
Skye Hutchison Barellan & District GK
Sophie Lockyer Illawarra District GK GD

Head Coach: Linda Macleod, Dubbo Netball Association
Assistant Coach: Charli Wright, Armidale Netball Association
Apprentice Coach: Alex McNeil, Illawarra Netball Association

The new AUKUS defence agreement made public today between the United Kingdom and Australia cannot hide the core failings of AUKUS. With AUKUS under threat from the US review, this agreement is a step back into the 20th century and further distances us from our neighbours. It makes clear the need for an inquiry into AUKUS.

The detail in the treaty makes clear that Australia is at the bottom rung of AUKUS, with the UK making all critical decisions on the design of the yet-to-be-built AUKUS nuclear submarines, and Australia once again funnelling money and little more.

The 50-year deal has little new detail and is largely a virtue signal to the US seeking the Trump administration’s support for the failing AUKUS deal.

The UK defence budget and industry are in disarray. Since 1972 the UK has made it clear it does not have a meaningful role in defence matters “East of Suez” and the decades since its economic and military reach has only diminished.

This deal also makes clear that Australia will be responsible for high, low and intermediate nuclear waste from UK submarines in Australia, with the limited exception of spent nuclear fuel. The deal will also see Australia “waive all claims for liability” on the transfer of AUKUS nuclear submarines.

Senator David Shoebridge, Greens spokesperson on Defence and Foreign Affairs, said:

“The Albanese Government has already committed to giving the UK a $5 billion down payment on AUKUS. Of course, the UK is committed to AUKUS; they have found a sucker in Australia.

“With this latest round of AUKUS the Albanese Government is making it clear they would rather handcuff Australia to an erratic bully in the US and a dying empire in the UK than work with our neighbours to have a peaceful and stable region.

“Signing Australia up to a 50-year agreement with the UK like this is an expensive distraction for Australia’s defence and security planners. Think of the message being sent to our region as we invite the UK back, half a century after our neighbours finally saw them sail away.

“These decisions are seemingly being made on the fly and just highlight the urgent need for inquiry into the AUKUS to pull Australia back from this reckless and expensive nuclear folly.”

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The Minns Labor Government has today announced more than $930,000 of funding to improve and promote recreational fishing across the North Coast region ensuring money from the Recreational Fishing Trusts is spent on the ground supporting local anglers.

The funding is part of the Minns Government’s plans to build fishing opportunities across the state and ensure that fishing remains accessible, sustainable, and enjoyable for generations to come.

The North Coast fishing community will see the benefits of new fishing infrastructure, with some $310,000 of grants awarded towards the construction of facilities including:

• $280,000 for new accessible fishing platforms at Tumbulgum Village and Terranora Creek
• $11,987 for a new fish cleaning table and shelter at Wooli Terrace Boat Ramp

Young people and students on the North Coast will soon be able to learn important life skills and enjoy the benefits of casting a line, with $36,000 funding approved for:

• $7,510 to establish new fishing sessions for Banora Point High School students
• $7,500 for fishing for wellbeing primary school programs at Tweed Heads, Tweed Heads South and Cudgen Public Schools
• $4,000 for resources for the new “Coastal Explorers” initiative for learning support classes at Maclean High School
• $8,300 for Sawtell Public School recreational fishing for sport each week
• $9,600 for Byron Youth Service Inc’s ‘Tight Lines’ fishing and mentoring program

A further $586,000 over the next two years has also been allocated to the community partnership between OzFish and Landcare NSW to improve 40 waterways across the North Coast and the state.

The funding, from the NSW Recreational Fishing Trust, demonstrates how licence fees are invested to boost recreational fishing in NSW, through new fishing infrastructure and programs to promote the well-being benefits of getting outside and casting a line.

The North Coast grants are part of some $2.4 million in funding to be allocated in the latest round of grants.

These grants are in addition to the NSW Government’s Get Hooked program which allows primary and secondary schools to incorporate recreational fishing subjects in their curriculum.

In 2024/25, more than 415,000 recreational fishing licences were issued, with all revenue raised reinvested into programs and projects that support and grow recreational fishing activity and the environment for vibrant fish habitats.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“The NSW Government is proud to support projects that promote and build recreational fishing opportunities across the state and ensure that fishing remains accessible, sustainable, and enjoyable for generations to come.

“These grants are about making sure money from the Recreational Fishing Trust is funnelled back to on-the-ground activities and is supporting the fishers who are out wetting a line.

“Whether it’s a new fish cleaning tables or accessible fishing platforms for people with disabilities, these infrastructure projects make a real difference to ensuring people of all ages and abilities can enjoy recreational fishing.

“It’s great to see programs funded through the Recreational Fishing Trust are helping young people experience the health, social, and emotional benefits of fishing.

“As someone who understands the joy and relaxation fishing brings, I’m thrilled to see licence fees being invested back to fund so many great ideas.

Minister for Recovery, Small Business and the North Coast, Janelle Saffin said:

“Spending time by the water is something many in our region treasure — so it’s great to see funding towards projects that will improve recreational fishing on the North Coast and help our local community get the most out of our stunning waterways.

“By investing in better fishing facilities from Tweed to Port Macquarie, these Recreational Fishing Trust Fund grants will make fishing more enjoyable for everyone, from families to seasoned locals.”

“There is no doubt that recreational fishing can have a powerful impact on well-being and these grants will help more North Coast youth experience those benefits in the short term and for years to come.”

The Albanese and Minns Labor Governments are working together to deliver better, safer and more resilient road infrastructure in Western Sydney, with work now underway on two transformative projects in the Hawkesbury region: the Pitt Town Bypass, and the commencement of enabling works for the new Richmond Bridge.

These projects, totaling over $600 million in investment, will improve flood resilience, reduce congestion and boost safety for local residents and visitors to the region.

Pitt Town Bypass

Major works are set to begin on the long-awaited Pitt Town Bypass, a $100 million NSW Government project set to improve travel times and safety in the region.

The 950-metre bypass will link Pitt Town Road and Cattai Road with two new roundabouts and a new bridge across Hortons Creek. It will divert traffic, including heavy vehicles, away from the village centre, easing congestion and improving access for emergency services.

Abergeldie Complex Infrastructure has been awarded the contract and will soon begin geotechnical and survey work ahead of full construction from August 1, 2026. The bypass is due to open to traffic by the end of 2026.

Road Upgrades ahead of a New Richmond Bridge

Shovels are in the ground as work begins on the first stage of road upgrades in the Hawkesbury that will eventually connect to the New Richmond Bridge.

The $515 million project, funded by the Albanese and Minns Governments, will see two new roundabouts be built along The Driftway at Londonderry and Blacktown Roads, improving safety and traffic flow during flood evacuations.

The upgrade at Londonderry Road will include a new roundabout and an additional southbound lane to support emergency evacuations. A new roundabout and new bridge across Rickabys Creek will also be delivered at Blacktown Road, improving safety and flood resilience.

Government is preparing to release the Stage 2 Determination Report, responding to community feedback. Stage 2 includes construction of a new four-lane bridge over the Hawkesbury River, around 10 metres higher than the existing bridge, providing significant flood immunity and improved access during extreme weather.

Construction on Stage 2 is expected to begin in 2026.

Thanks to community feedback, extra funding has been committed by the Albanese Government towards a future stage of the New Richmond Bridge project, to support delivery of a bypass to Londonderry and key North Richmond intersection upgrades.

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

“The Albanese Government is proud to be working with the Minns Government to deliver key road upgrades near Richmond. Once complete, stages one and two of this project will improve flood resilience, safety, and connectivity across the Hawkesbury.

“We’ve listened to community feedback and responded with additional investment to deliver additional key upgrades for road connections are delivered alongside the New Richmond Bridge.

“We’re building infrastructure that locals can rely on, day in, day out, rain or shine.”

NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison:

“These two projects show the Minns Labor Government is serious about building a safer and more resilient road network across North Western Sydney. We’re reducing congestion, improving flood evacuation routes, and delivering the infrastructure that communities like Pitt Town and Richmond need and deserve.

“The New Richmond Bridge will transform access across the Hawkesbury, while the Pitt Town Bypass will take pressure off local roads and make it easier for emergency services to do their job. These are practical upgrades that will have a lasting legacy.”

Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman:

“These two projects will make a real difference for the people of Hawkesbury. Whether it’s easing the pressure on Pitt Town or building a safer, flood-resilient connection across the river to North Richmond, this is about delivering infrastructure that keeps our communities connected, even in times of crisis.”

“I’m proud to be part of a Government that is working alongside the Minns Government to deliver what locals and I have long called for.”

Disability service providers are calling for urgent action to reform NSW’s failing workers compensation system, with some fearing they are just a claim away from closing their doors on some of the state’s most vulnerable people.

The NSW Government will today convene a roundtable at the request of providers to hear from more than twenty organisations who report that soaring premiums and delayed action are forcing them to make tough choices about the communities they serve.

One provider in Western Sydney says an 800 per cent hike in premiums over the past five years is threatening its ability to continue disability and aged care services.

Others report having to divert funds from their disability support programs to pay premiums, and in one case, a provider has relocated part of its office to a family home to save on costs.

The sector is imploring the NSW Government to take urgent action to address the rise in psychological injuries and create a sustainable system.

Disability service providers will today meet with Premier Chris Minns, Treasurer Daniel Mookhey and Industrial Relations Minister Sophie Cotsis to voice their concerns about any further delay on reform.

The Minns Labor Government’s workers compensation reform package passed the Legislative Assembly in early June, before being delayed by the Liberal Party which has teamed up with Mark Latham and the Greens to block progress.

Analysis by icare shows co-authored amendments by Shadow Treasurer Damien Tudehope and Mark Latham would cut off almost all victims of harassment, bullying and vicarious trauma from support, and still deliver higher premiums to NSW businesses.

Every day that Mr Tudehope and Mr Latham continue to block reform, the workers compensation system deteriorates further.

• Just 50 per cent of workers with a psychological injury can return to work within a year, compared to 95 per cent of workers with a physical injury.
• The private sector scheme is going backwards by $6 million per day. It is soon expected to hold only 80 cents in assets for every dollar it will have to pay in claims.
• Absent reform, 340,000 NSW businesses will have to pay a 36 per cent increase in premiums over the next three years even if they have no claims against them.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said:

“Providers who care for some of our most vulnerable citizens are telling us they can’t keep going under the strain of this broken system.

“Every day that reform is delayed – the system is only deteriorating further.

“The proposals put forward by the Liberal Party and Mark Latham would leave these providers paying higher premiums.

“The sooner we enact reform, the sooner we can get on with preventing psychological injuries in the workplace, rather than simply compensating for injuries which could have been avoided.”

Minister for Industrial Relations Sophie Cotsis said:

“The Minns Labor Government recognises the challenges faced by NGOs and disability service providers, many of whom are grappling with rising workers compensation premiums while operating under fixed funding models.

“We are actively engaging with these sectors to ensure their voices are heard, and to work toward a fairer, more sustainable system that supports both workers and essential community services.

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to strengthening a culture of prevention, early intervention, and effective return to work through a series of reforms.”

Philip Petrie, CEO Allevia said:

“Rising insurance premiums are a major threat to our ability to stay open and we are always just a claim away from shutting up shop forever.”

Heather Hollingworth, CEO BCD said:

“BCD, a disability and aged care services provider has faced an 800 per cent increase in workers compensation premiums over the past five years, threatening its viability.

“Despite minimal claims and strong safety practices, BCD urges urgent reform to ensure fairer premiums and protect essential community services.”

Jo Kernot, CEO Anowah Community Living Ltd said:

“We’re not asking for exemptions—we’re asking for fairness. This system, as it stands, will cost NSW its most trusted disability providers.

“Without urgent reform, this system will collapse essential services.”

Jake Ferretti, CEO Genovation said:

“We’ve had to host our admin team from our family home just to stay afloat.

“If reform doesn’t happen, it’s not just services at risk – it’s the people, staff, and families who rely on us.”

A major milestone has been reached in the first project announced as part of the $100 million Northern Rivers Resilient Lands Program. 

The NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) has finalised the purchase of 72 hectares of flood-free land from Southern Cross University which allows the development of more than 400 new housing lots to be kick started, helping to address the housing shortage in the Northern Rivers and supporting flood-affected communities.

The site, in East Lismore, is being developed for new land and homes in partnership with Landcom, the NSW Government’s land and property developer.

A diverse range of land sizes will be made available to cater for housing options that will make up the development, including residential lots for new builds and land suitable for relocating existing homes from flood-affected areas.

Landcom will invest $60 million to develop the site and RA is contributing up to $15 million for the land and funding for enabling infrastructure, including new roads, power, water and sewerage connections.

RA’s contribution also ensures that participants in the Commonwealth and State-funded Resilient Homes Program will have priority access to purchase new land and housing before it is offered to the broader market. This will be offered at prices that reflect the local market.

Consultation between Landcom, Lismore City Council and RA is underway to progress a masterplan for the site and to make sure new housing and community infrastructure is delivered as quickly as possible.

In addition, Landcom is close to starting construction on Build to Rent housing on the site with 50 apartments will be unlocked, with at least 20 per cent set aside for affordable housing.

This development is a key part of the Government’s $100 million Resilient Lands Program, with other housing and land developments started or planned for Goonellebah, North Lismore, Mullumbimby and Murwillumbah along with planning support for a range of priority projects across all Local Government Areas in the Northern Rivers.

The $880 million Northern Rivers Resilient Homes Program and the $100 million Resilient Lands Program are the largest projects of their kind in Australia, announced in response to the 2022 flood disasters in the Northern Rivers.

The NSW Government’s Resilient Lands Program is facilitating development and working with Councils, landowners and government agencies to unlock land for up to 4300 homes on flood safe land in the region.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“The finalisation of this purchase and development of the land is a key part of a range of projects under the Resilient Lands Program that will provide safe, suitable places for people to move off the floodplain and into their forever homes.

“Importantly participants of the Resilient Homes Program will be given first access to secure new land and housing under the project.

“Northern Rivers residents are facing major housing challenges and this large-scale land purchase will make way for the development of many new homes, the relocation of existing homes and a significant proportion of Build to Rent properties.

“This project is another example of the Minns Labor Government delivering more homes and better choices for home buyers and renters across the state.”

Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said:

“The Southern Cross University site opens up a significant area for homes in areas outside the probable maximum flood level in Lismore.

“This development allows us to build a safe and resilient community close to home and in easy reach of the town centre.

“A sincere thank you to Southern Cross University, an integral part of the Lismore community, for working with us to unlock this significant tract of land.”

NSW Reconstruction Authority CEO Mal Lanyon said:

“The RA has been working closely with Southern Cross University and Landcom to acquire and progress development of the site. The RA and Landcom will focus on fast-tracking the project and get groundwork underway.

“This development is a key component of the Resilient Lands Strategy. The purchase of this land is a demonstration of the work to secure a brighter future for Lismore and the Northern Rivers in response to one of the nation’s worst ever flood disasters.

“The NSW Reconstruction Authority is committed to helping people move from flood-prone land to areas free from flood risk.”

Landcom CEO Alexander Wendler said:

“The impact of the floods continues to be felt in Lismore and is exacerbated by the current housing crisis. We recognise this hardship and are stepping up provide more housing opportunities to accommodate the needs of the local community.

“Landcom is making homes happen. This project will unlock housing to suit a range of needs with diverse, sustainable and affordable options.’

Parramatta is now connected into the Metro tunnels which will link millions of passengers to the Sydney CBD in a smooth, 20-minute underground trip in the future.

After 17-months of grinding through solid rock from Sydney Olympic Park two tunnel boring machines (TBMs) have arrived at the Parramatta station box.

This marks 90 per cent completion of all tunnelling on the Sydney Metro West project and comes after a double breakthrough at Pyrmont at the eastern end of the line.

Sydney Metro West will transform the Parramatta city centre into a vibrant precinct, with the station anchoring a mixed-use development over the equivalent of two city blocks.

The new Metro station is close to Light Rail services and will link directly to the new Civic Link, a 450-metre-long pedestrian spine connecting the metro precinct to the future Powerhouse Parramatta.

The TBMs have chewed through 200 metres of Sydney sandstone every week since early 2024, excavating 1.25 million tonnes of rock – enough to fill the Olympic pool at Sydney Olympic Park 204 times over.

Appropriately, it was TBM Betty, named after Australian “Golden Girl” Olympic champion sprinter Betty Cuthbert, that reached the finish line into Parramatta first and is already on its way towards Westmead.

TBM Dorothy, named after human rights activist Dorothy Buckland-Fuller, broke through into the station box just before 10am on Thursday last week and will receive some maintenance before pushing on to Westmead to complete the western end of the line by the end of the year.

They have installed more than 48,000 precast concrete segments – each weighing up to 4 tonnes – to line the tunnels. That is the equivalent weight of:

• Three and a half Sydney Harbour Bridges
• 317 Airbus A380s
• 34,500 African elephants

Six of the nine station boxes for the Sydney Metro West project have been excavated and lined: The Bays, Five Dock, Burwood North, North Strathfield Sydney Olympic Park and Westmead. Work continues at Parramatta, Pyrmont and the Hunter Street station in the city which will link pedestrians to Martin Place Station on the M1 metro line.

Sydney Metro West has a target open date of 2032.

Housing is the largest cost most people are facing and the NSW Government is getting more homes built near public transport, improving affordability, reducing building and infrastructure costs and building a better NSW.

For more information about the project, visit sydneymetro.info/west/project-overview.

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

“This station breakthrough is a huge step towards the delivery of Sydney Metro West.

“When it’s up and running Metro West will be a gamechanger for commuters making it significantly easier to travel between Sydney’s west and Sydney’s CBD.

“Metro West will double rail capacity, it’ll link new communities, support the growth of housing and jobs in Western Sydney.”

Minister for Transport John Graham said:

“The route from Sydney to Parramatta has always been one of the most important transport connections and a 20-minute underground metro trip will bring these two centres so much closer together.

“Metro is a city-shaping transport project, and we look forward to the jobs and economic boost for Sydney’s west that this line will provide.

“These TBMs have delivered a rock-solid performance, working around the clock for 17 months to reach Parramatta and now it is time for them to finish the job to Westmead.”

Creatives in Western Sydney will have greater opportunities to build careers and share their unique stories with the world, through the first Western Sydney arts strategy in over 25 years.

Backed by a $5 million funding boost the Government is launching the Plan for Western Sydney Arts, Culture and Creative Industries 2025 – 2028, which aims tounlock the full potential of one of Australia’s fastest growing, dynamic and diverse creative communities.

To achieve that objective the plan lays out a strategy with six priorities:

• Unlock investment equity: repairing historic underfunding through transparent, proportional funding aligned with the region’s scale, population and cultural vitality.
• First Nations First:  placing First Nations arts, culture, creative practice and leadership as central to Western Sydney’s cultural future.
• Grow creative careers: supporting the creative workforce through direct funding and strengthening collaboration with education providers, government and creative industries.
• Strengthen creative ecosystems: supporting artists, groups and organisations to develop and present new work, connect with peers and communities.
• Showcase Western Sydney: growing local, national and international audiences by investing in programming, platforms and partnerships.
• Unlock spaces for culture: working with local and state government, cultural institutions, and infrastructure agencies to unlock and develop new creative spaces.

The plan is backed by an initial first year investment of $5 million, which includes:

• $2.15 million for a Strategic Partnerships Fund — supporting co-funded initiatives with arts and cultural organisations, councils, universities, philanthropists and business.
• $2 million to scope and deliver a major Western Sydney arts festival.
• $500,000 in new First Nations arts grants (up to $100,000 per project).
• $350,000 to strengthen the Western Sydney Arts Alliance and deliver a micro-grants program to Western Sydney creatives.

This new investment builds on ongoing investments including the delivery of Powerhouse Parramatta, $380 million of cultural infrastructure investments in Western Sydney arts centres, and Create NSW Arts and Cultural Funding Program investment of $3.9 million per annum in Western Sydney arts organisations.

These commitments build on the NSW Government’s 10-year Creative Communities policy and delivers on its promise to make arts and culture accessible, visible and celebrated across the state — not just in the Sydney CBD.

The plan was developed with the Western Sydney Arts Alliance and a working group of local Western Sydney arts experts, chaired by Julia Finn the Parliamentary Secretary for the Arts.

Minister for the Arts John Graham said:

“Most of Sydney’s major arts institutions are a stone’s throw from the eastern harbour. Western Sydney creatives deserve better, and this a practical plan to start addressing that imbalance.

“No government has delivered a dedicated arts strategy for Western Sydney since Bob Carr in 1999. Once again, this incredibly important area will have a road map.

“A poet in Bankstown or a painter from Penrith should have the same chance of success as someone from the eastern half of the city.

“With the arrival of the new airport, Powerhouse Parramatta and big investments in local arts centres – Western Sydney has a very exciting chapter ahead of it. Its artistic and cultural life will be a big part of that story, but we have to back the local creatives and the communities that nurture them.”

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

“Western Sydney is home to more than 2.6 million people – and some of the most exciting creative talent in the country – yet for too long, artists in the region have faced barriers to funding, visibility and opportunity.

“The release of this arts and cultural plan for Western Sydney is the first step to addressing these issues.

“With its Indigenous and the rich migrant history, there is no place in the world like Western Sydney. These creative communities are full of amazing talent and their voices deserve to be heard.

“The accompanying $5 million fund will address the historic inequity in funding allocation to Western Sydney arts, culture and creative industries, providing opportunities for the many benefits to flow into the community and facilitating sustainable sector growth.”

The Western Sydney Arts Alliance said:

“The Western Sydney Plan Working Group welcomes the release of the Plan for Western Sydney Arts, Culture and Creative Industries and the opportunity to have contributed to its development. This landmark strategy acknowledges the systemic inequities long faced by artists and organisations in our region and affirms the vital role of the small-to-medium sector in shaping Western Sydney’s cultural identity.

“Placing First Nations artists, next generation creatives, D/deaf and disabled artists and culturally diverse communities at its centre, the Plan invests in actions that elevate local voices and stories. It recognises the arts as a powerful force for connection, cultural cohesion and economic contribution – locally, nationally and globally.

“We also welcome the recognition of the Western Sydney Arts Alliance as a lead partner in the Plan’s delivery and, as a sector, look forward to working with government, industry and community to realise its vision.”

The Minns Labor Government is continuing to support local organisations by providing savings on workers compensation premiums at a special event in Nowra.

The forum will provide local business, NGOs and industry with practical advice, resources and insights all geared towards helping better manage their premiums.

Small businesses are the lifeblood of the NSW economy, contributing over $535 billion every year.

The Shoalhaven region has almost 8,200 local businesses that employ around 50,000 people. The forum has been organised to listen and provide support to local business owners to access information about premium discounts and incentives for their workers.

The forum includes information on how premiums are calculated, what business owners can do to support their staff’s wellbeing and providing advice on return-to-work strategies.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to reforming icare which involves a sustainable scheme, ensuring injured workers are at the centre of care and helping support business who pay the premiums.

The Government recently introduced changes to workers compensation. The package passed the Legislative Assembly in early June, before being delayed by the Liberal Party, the Greens and Mr Latham.

Every day reform is delayed the workers compensation system deteriorates further.

• Just 50 per cent of workers with a psychological injury can return to work within a year, compared to 95 per cent of workers with a physical injury.
• The private sector scheme is going backwards by $6 million per day. It is soon expected to hold only 80 cents in assets for every dollar it will have to pay in claims.
• Absent reform, 340,000 NSW businesses will have to pay a 36 per cent increase in premiums over the next three years even if they have no claims against them. 

The Minns Labor government is committed to the expansion of this type of engagement in line with its reforms.

Employers in NSW can register for future events online or immediately access a range of free, easy-to-use tools from icare’s Small Business Hub.

For more information about upcoming icare outreach events, visit the website.

Minister for Industrial Relations Sophie Cotsis said:

“After recently visiting Shoalhaven with the hardworking Member for the South Coast Liza Butler, I’m pleased to return to Nowra for this important forum. Icare experts will be in attendance to provide important advice, tips, tools and useful information which may help reduce Workers Compensation premiums.

“There will be several experts at the forum including SafeWork NSW officials, icare underwriters and icare specialist support staff.

“Helping local employers support their workers to stay safe, return to work quickly and get home safely at the end of every day not only safeguards workers’ health, but saves them money.

“The NSW Government has introduced legislation to reform the Workers Compensation System and our Workplace Health and Safety system to improve the prevention and treatment of psychological injuries which occur at work. 

“The government is also funding acomplementary Workplace Mental Health package with $344 million in new funding to support mental health in the workplace, including new SafeWork NSW Inspector positions and wraparound psychological support services for people navigating the claims process.”

Member for the South Coast Liza Butler said:

“Small businesses are the lifeblood of our region, and it is important that we support them to find ways to not only keep workers safe, but what they can do to reduce their Workers Compensation premiums.

“I wish to sincerely thank the local business community for their collaboration and assistance to put this event together. Their commitment to finding smarter, more efficient ways to operate is what keeps the Shoalhaven economy moving.

“I also thank Minister Cotsis for taking the time to meet directly with South Coast businesses—it means a lot to see real support on the ground to help address both the challenges and the opportunities our region faces.”

President Shoalhaven Business Chamber John Lamont said:

“Events like this in Nowra are crucial for equipping local business owners with practical tools, expert advice, and cost-saving strategies that make a real difference.

“With over 8,000 businesses in the Shoalhaven region, we’re committed to ensuring they have every opportunity to grow and thrive.

“I’d like to thank Minister Cotsis for her strong advocacy and continued support for South Coast businesses.”

icare Medium Employer Engagement Team & Mobile Engagement Team Manager Adam O’Leary said:

“At icare, we want to help local business owners understand the impact their unique claims history and other risk factors have on the premium they pay, and that there are savings and incentives that are often available to them.

“The calculations behind icare’s premiums are risk-based, and businesses with strong safety performance are usually rewarded with discounted premiums. Our talk is packed full of top tips for local businesses looking to build safety and to help their injured workers get back to work faster.”

A new pedestrian and cyclist bridge honouring the memory of local student Luke Bowen has officially opened in Coffs Harbour today, marking a major milestone in the delivery of the city’s long-awaited bypass.

Spanning eight lanes of traffic, the Luke Bowen Pedestrian Bridge is the first major piece of infrastructure to be completed as part of the Coffs Harbour Bypass.

This state-of-the-art pedestrian bridge replaces the older and shorter bridge of the same name, and now provides a safer, more accessible connection across the highway, including direct access to a new bus interchange being built near Kororo Public School.

The bridge stands as both a vital piece of infrastructure and a deeply meaningful tribute – a place of remembrance for Luke, and a commitment to a safer future for all members of the community.

The Coffs Harbour Bypass is a $2.2 billion project jointly funded by the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments.

Once complete, the bypass will remove thousands of vehicles from the city centre, improve traffic flow and significantly reduce travel times.

Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King said:

“The 14kilometre Coffs Bypass will transform Coffs Harbour for the better, bypassing the town centre and allowing interstate traffic to flow freely. The stunning new pedestrian bridge will ensure people can move safely and easily over the new highway.

“The bridge also honours the memory of Luke Bowen, a young life lost too soon. The Coffs Harbour community has shown such strength and unity in carrying Luke’s name forward and this bridge stands as a testament to that spirit.”

NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“For the people of Coffs Harbour, the bypass represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape their city, to reclaim their streets, reduce congestion, and create a more peaceful, accessible place to live.

“The Luke Bowen Bridge is the first step in that journey, and it sets the tone for everything that will follow.

“It is especially moving to see the community come together to honour Luke’s memory in such a lasting way. It’s a reminder that behind every piece of infrastructure are people, families and stories that matter.

“The bridge was installed with only a few hours of highway closure, and the older structure removed just as efficiently. This shows the outstanding coordination and care that’s gone into this project.”

Jeff Bowen and Vicki Banks, parents of the late Luke Bowen said:

“Our family is honoured that the new pedestrian bridge will serve as a lasting legacy to Luke.

“It is a deeply moving tribute that reflects the care and strength of the community he loved so much.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Transport for NSW and Kororo Public School.”