Category: NSW News

Residents in Urbenville, Muli Muli, and Woodenbong in northern New South Wales have access to safer and more reliable drinking water with a critical $3.5 million infrastructure project to expand the Urbenville Water Treatment Plant now complete.

The upgrade was made possible through $1.42 million from the Australian Government’s National Water Grid Fund, $2 million from the NSW Government’s Drought Fund and $100,000 from Tenterfield Shire and Kyogle Councils.

The landmark project will improve water quality and boost drought resilience across the three villages while increasing the plant’s service capacity, ensuring first-rate drinking water continues to flow well into the future.

Despite being built in 2010, the original plant was in desperate need of an upgrade with the original technology struggling to manage the increasingly variable raw water quality.

As part of the overhaul, two new clarifier lagoons have been built that will pre-treat the raw water sourced from Tooloom Creek, giving existing filters a leg up to keep producing high-quality drinking water even during low-quality periods.

A new bore and storage tanks have been brought online, providing a valuable back-up supply and lifeline for residents during drought conditions.

The existing jetty offtake structure has also been upgraded, and new cages have been installed to protect the pumps from excess river debris which can build up during wet weather.

The completion is the crowning milestone of the 3-year project, which will now support around 700 people across the region, locking in reliable and high-quality drinking water and helping residents weather a future drought.

This also marks the final project to complete construction under the National Water Grid’s NSW Connections package – which has seen 3 critical projects in Walcha, West Wyalong and now Urbenville delivered in NSW thanks to over $30 million in joint funding.

Acting Federal Minister for Water, Catherine King said:

“Everyone deserves clean and reliable drinking water, no matter where they live.

“This project has future-proofed water security for local residents and I’m incredibly pleased to see these critical upgrades now complete.

“Locals in Urbenville, Muli Muli and Woodenbong are now in the best possible position ahead of the next dry spell for the region.

“This is a win for these communities and a win for New South Wales.”

NSW Minister for Water Rose Jackson said:

“This upgrade to the Urbenville Water Treatment Plant is a gamechanger for the area, and another example of all levels of government coming together to achieve big things for the people of NSW.

“The last drought hit people in the region incredibly hard, which is why it was so important to get their water infrastructure upgraded and working to modern-day standards.

“It’s a fantastic result and will mean safe and secure water for generations to come.”

NSW Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said:

“This is great example of what can happen when all three levels of government work together to make people’s everyday lives better.

“We haven’t just delivered the clean water that these communities deserve, we’ve also delivered an upgrade to make Tenterfield and Kyogle Shires more resilient during future droughts. 

“I’d like to thank the Federal and State governments for working together with our local Shire Councils to get this project up and running.”

Mayor of Tenterfield Shire Council Bronwyn Petrie said:

“This is a landmark day for Urbenville, Muli Muli, and Woodenbong.

“It has been three years in the making, and we’ve had our fair share of setbacks, but we are now able to cut the ribbon on this incredible water treatment upgrade and deliver a secure water future for these communities.

“Thanks to crucial investments from the Australian and NSW Governments, the co-funding from Councils and a lot of hard work and collaboration, we have now crossed the finish line.”

Mayor of Kyogle Council Danielle Mulholland said:

“This is a great result for these villages. Clean and reliable water is essential to everyone, and more than 400 people across Muli Muli and Woodenbong alone will now reap the benefits of these upgrades.

“We are grateful to all levels of Government who contributed to this exceptional project and supported this fantastic outcome for our community.” 

From September, general practitioners in NSW will be able to resupply ADHD medication to their patients, marking the first phase of landmark reforms by the Minns Labor Government to make ADHD care cheaper and accessible.

To support the rollout, the Minns Labor Government is today inviting GPs to express their interest in undertaking the required training by completing an EOI form on the NSW Health website.

These reforms will ease pressure on families who currently face long waits and high out-of-pocket costs to access life changing ADHD care.

Once training is completed, GPs will be able to manage resupply prescriptions without needing a formal arrangement with a psychiatrist or paediatrician. This means faster access to care and fewer financial barriers for families.

For the first time, thousands of people will be able to have their ADHD medication resupplied by their regular doctor.

Currently, most people seeking ADHD care must navigate a costly and overloaded specialist system, experiencing long wait times and high fees which could delay treatment and cause harm, particularly for children. These delays can have a significant impact on their development, such as poorer academic progress, employment opportunities and mental health.

That’s why the initial rollout will prioritise children on stable doses of medication to ensure early and consistent access to care.

By the end of the year, further training to enable GPs to diagnose and initiate medication will begin.

NSW Health is paying for GPs to complete this training and access to resources so as many people as possible can benefit from these changes.

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“The beginning of this training is a welcome milestone because it means people, especially children, with ADHD are one step closer to having their condition managed by a GP.

“These reforms will have a positive impact on patients both in terms of saving them time and money while accessing care that they need, but we also know the flow on effects will be huge.”

Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson:

“Since our announcement last month, we’ve seen an overwhelming outpouring of support for these reforms. From women, parents, teachers and people with ADHD who know just how broken the old system was.

“Women, especially those who were undiagnosed as children, often face stigma and financial barriers when they finally seek support for ADHD. Giving GPs the ability to resupply is a simple, practical step that will make a real difference.

“We are building a system where ADHD care is based on need, not income. No more waiting lists just to refill your script. No more reaching for your credit card to access essential healthcare.

“These reforms are about fairness. Your ability to get help for ADHD shouldn’t depend on how much money you have or whether you can afford a specialist appointment.”

NSW Health Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant:

“NSW Health is proud to have worked on these reforms that create another avenue for patients to receive the care they need.

“We look forward to supporting doctors who make the decision to complete this training.”

RACGP NSW & ACT Chair Dr Rebekah Hoffman

“The new training program empowers GPs to expand their scope and ensure more equitable access to ADHD treatment across NSW, particularly for children and families in regional and rural areas.

“GPs are experts in long-term, holistic, complex and chronic care. This reform recognises our role and strengthens the continuity of care for people living with ADHD.

“We welcome the government’s commitment to upskilling and supporting GPs, and we look forward to seeing these changes improve lives from September. No longer should ADHD be stigmatised, doing this brings it into mainstream care, and ensures all patients will be able to access the care they need”

The NSW Opposition has slammed the Minns Government’s inaction on problem gambling, after the 2025-26 budget revealed a drastic increase in gaming machine revenue.
 
The budget papers project $2.6b will be brought in from the pokies tax on clubs and hotels across the state in 2025-26, with that figure forecast to rise to more than $3b by 2028-29.
 
Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said when a government relies on gambling losses to prop up its budget, it’s not just lazy, it’s wrong.
 
“The Minns Labor Government promised to tackle problem gambling, but instead they’re banking on it growing, with gaming machine revenue set to soar by 31 per cent since 2023-24,” Mr Speakman said.
 
“Every dollar made from someone’s addiction is a dollar taken from their family, their future, their wellbeing.
 
“Seven months on, there’s still no response to the Independent Panel’s roadmap for reform, just silence and a growing dependence on pokies revenue.
 
This budget proves Labor isn’t serious about reform—it’s addicted to the revenue, and the community is paying the price.”
 
Shadow Minister for Gaming and Racing Kevin Anderson said Labor would rather cash in than address the issue.
 
“The Minns Labor Government talks a big game when it comes to problem gambling and harm minimisation, but this budget demonstrates that it’s all talk, and no action from Labor,” Mr Anderson said.
 
“What we’re seeing here is a 31 per cent increase in gaming machine revenue over five years since 2023-24, and much or most of that revenue is coming from the pockets of problem gamblers.
 
“The situation is worsening in NSW, which is extremely concerning, and these ongoing significant increases sadly suggest the Government has no plans to fix things.”
 
There are also questions around why the Government still hasn’t responded to the Independent Panel on Gaming Reform’s ‘Roadmap for Gaming Reform report, seven months after it was released.
 
“Labor’s delayed response to the report is leaving the community, and the industry in the dark about the future of gaming in NSW,” Mr Anderson said.
 
“There’s mounting evidence Labor’s gaming policies are failing, yet there’s nothing in this budget that shows a commitment to address the report’s recommendations.
 
“Despite an election commitment to tackle problem gambling, the Minns Government has demonstrated very little willingness or interest to uphold that promise.”

From Gunnedah to Goulburn, Kiama to Ku-ring-gai, Mudgee to Manly and Penrith to Port Stephens—240 teams from every corner of NSW, the largest number on record, are gearing up for the biggest weekend on the junior netball calendar. 

The 2025 HART Junior State Titles, taking place this weekend from 5–7 July, promises three action-packed days of elite junior competition, community spirit and netball magic. With more than 2,500 young athletes set to take the court, the event stands as a true celebration of grassroots sport and the Netball NSW pathway. 

“Since its inception in 1969, the Junior State Titles has grown into one of the premier development pathways for emerging netball talent. This year, the 14U age category is at full capacity with a record breaking 82 teams competing along with 21 teams in the 14U Championship Division,” Stacy Harding, General Manager Competitions said. 

The tournament is occurring at two venues – Baulkham Hills Shire Netball Association, which will host the 12U, 13U, and 14U Championship and Division 2 teams, along with the 14U Male Championship (Sunday/Monday only) and Penrith District Netball Association, which will welcome Division 3 and 4 teams in the 12U, 13U and 14U age groups.  

Thanks to the generous support of HART, naming rights partner since 2019 and Penrith City Council, the event is set to be bigger and better than ever. Their contribution helps Netball NSW deliver a first-class experience for players, officials, families and fans alike. 

The atmosphere at the Junior State Titles is second to none. From the vibrant opening ceremony to decorated tents, the courtside excitement is where talent and teamwork shine. 

All eyes will be on the likes of Randwick, the reigning 13U Championship winners, as they aim to go back-to-back in the 14U division. Meanwhile, Manly Warringah, who dominated the 12U Championship in 2024, will look to continue their winning ways in the 13U bracket. 

But it’s not just about what happens on the court. Off-court fun includes special appearances from NSW Swifts and GIANTS Netball players, team mascots Sporty and GIA, giveaways from HomeWorld, chill-out time at the GIANTS Zone, and the chance to grab exclusive Junior State Titles merchandise from Valour. 

The countdown is on. The stage is set. Let the 2025 HART Junior State Titles begin! 

The Minns Labor Government has introduced a scheme to provide thousands of new, energy and water-efficient washing machines at a significantly discounted price for pensioners, veterans and social housing tenants. 

Up to 8,000 eligible households can get their hands on a brand-new front-loader washing machine for $250, thanks to a program to help low-income households with cost-of-living pressures, including water and energy bills.

Eligible applicants can trade-in their old water and energy inefficient top loader machine and receive a brand-new high-end Westinghouse 8kg front loader for $250. 

The NSW Government has teamed up with The Good Guys to provide the heavily discounted machines, with the fee covering delivery, installation and a two-year warranty as well as removal and recycling of their old appliance.

Applications are now open online for all Centrelink or Department of Veterans Affairs-issued concession card holders in NSW. 

We encourage households to act quickly to snap up their machine – but advise applicants to check first if their laundry space can house the Westinghouse model, which is 850mm high, 600mm wide and 660mm deep.

To apply and check if you are eligible, please visit: Washing Machine Exchange Program.

Minister for Water Rose Jackson said: 

“This could not come at a better time, we know people are struggling with cost-of-living pressures and high water and energy bills are a huge part of that.

“We’re not just talking about cost-of-living relief, we’re delivering it. This program will lower power bills, cut water use, and make life a little bit easier for thousands of people.

“These new washing machines are not only good news to help people save, they’re better for the environment too, saving an estimated 20,000 litres of water each year.”

Minister for Veterans David Harris said: 

“This is a fantastic initiative allowing veterans, pensioners and social housing tenants to get their hands on a great appliance valued at more than $650 for just $250, including installation and removal.

“Veterans served in defence of this great land, so the least we can do to assist in lowering their energy bills.

“This is just one of the ways the NSW Government is helping people every day with cost-of-living pressures.”

Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said:

“I encourage pensioners to apply for one of these new washing machines. At a highly discounted rate, this service will take your older machine away and replace it with a new and improved model. 

“Not only will you end up with a brand-new washing machine at less than half price, it could potentially lower your utility bills, too.”  

Biag Capasso, Managing Director, The Good Guys said:

“We’re delighted to be teaming up with the NSW Government to roll out these subsidised washing machines across the state to people who need them most. It’s one of many ways The Good Guys help families with their day-to-day needs. 

“This program will be in high demand which is why we have plenty of stock, and our delivery team is ready to help customers, in both regional and metro areas, by removing old top loaders and install the new Westinghouse machines.” 

Building Commission NSW visited the Central West in early June to conduct inspections on new residential properties as part of the agency’s continued commitment to monitor building work in regional NSW.

The Central West inspection blitz saw the NSW Building Commissioner James Sherrard and a team of inspectors visit 62 sites across Dubbo, Orange, Bathurst and Blayney.

15 inspectors split their time between general building work inspections, specialist trades like plumbing, electrical, gas and air conditioning, as well as Home Building Compensation Fund (HBCF) checks.

As a result of the compliance campaign Building Commission NSW has drafted 15 Rectification Orders for a range of defects detected during the four-day blitz.

Before these orders are finalised and made public, Building Commission NSW will consider written representations from the developer or principal contractor, as required by legislation.

The blitz also saw Building Commission NSW issue 18 penalty infringement notices (PINs) valued at $13,700 for issues related to builder and certifier’s signage, unlicenced work and supervision of trades.

In addition to the PINs, Building Commission NSW inspectors issued 57 written direction notices (WDNs) for specialist electrical work.

Building Commission NSW also used its time in the Central West to conduct three council meetings and four community “drop-in” sessions providing residents the opportunity to raise building-related issues and ask questions about the regulatory process.

In Orange, Building Commission NSW partnered with the Master Builders Association (MBA) at an evening industry event where 140 attendees shared insights about construction within the region.

The regional inspection program has seen inspectors visit the Mid-North Coast, Tweed and Riverina-Murray so far this year, to ensure residential buildings outside the metro postcodes are up to par.

Including the Central West blitz, Building Commission NSW has visited 223 residential building sites, expects to issue or has issued 58 orders for building defects, and issued 72 PINs, as part of this regional push.

Building Commission NSW also plans to visit other regional locations across the State to ensure local construction sectors are working to the highest possible level. 

Minister for Building Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“Building quality is one of the top priorities of the Minns Government.

“The NSW Government is committed to lifting standards in the residential construction industry across the entire state and that includes our regions.

“The Central West inspection blitz is part of an ongoing program to ensure that homeowners, no matter where they live, can have confidence in the quality of their homes.”

Minister for Western NSW Tara Moriarty said:

“Inspecting 62 sites across Dubbo, Orange, Bathurst and Blayney, Building Commission NSW is about ensuring regional communities are confident local builders and developers are all working in accordance with building standards and regulations.

“The Central West visit didn’t just focus on enforcement, with council meetings, community “drop-in” sessions and the well-attended industry event in Orange, Building Commission NSW listened to locals and heard directly from the sector about the challenges and opportunities in the region.

“That feedback is invaluable as the Minns Government shapes its future policy and regulatory approaches.”

Member for Orange Phil Donato MP said:

“Homeowners in the electorate of Orange deserve to be confident that their home is safe and sound when they move in.

“I’m pleased that Building Commission NSW is focused on ensuring building standards in the Central West, and I look forward to the Commission continuing its inspections right across the regions in order to protect hardworking homeowners.”

NSW Building Commissioner James Sherrard said:

“On this trip to the Central West, 30 Building Commission NSW staff travelled 822 kilometres to conduct compliance inspections, engage with local councils, communities and stakeholders.

“While inspections were just a small part of what our team did in the Central West, it was still very important to check in on the local industry and ensure the building work is of good quality.

“After almost 150 interactions with tradespeople on sites across Bathurst, Orange, Dubbo and Blayney, we were pleased with the level of compliance we saw.

“But the 57 written direction notices issued for electrical work alone speak to the importance of checking in, as there is still work to be done.

“Whether it’s the Central West or the coast, homeowners deserve confidence that their home is safe and sound when they move in.

“We will continue to visit the regions to make sure our standards are being met and if not, we’ll act.”

Families in Sydney’s North West are set to benefit from three new public schools and two new public preschools in Box Hill and Gables, as the Minns Labor Government continues to deliver world-class education to one of the fastest growing suburbs in the state.

Today the NSW Government is beginning construction on a new primary school and preschool in Gables and Box Hill area, and revealing the designs for a new primary school, high school and public preschool in Box Hill, while also expanding access to a temporary school in the area.

Once complete, these three schools will cater for more than 3,000 local students in The Hills, with room to grow as the local community continues to expand.

Construction underway on a new public school and preschool in Gables

Construction has officially started on a brand new public primary school and public preschool in Gables. Located at 1 Pennant Way, the new school will cater for 1,000 students.

A public preschool will also be delivered on-site, providing quality, fee-free early learning for up to 120 children per week, and allowing families with kids in preschool and school to avoid the double drop off.

Both the public primary school and public preschool will open to students for Day 1, Term 1 2027.

Designs revealed of new Box Hill permanent schools and a new public preschool

Designs are also being revealed for new permanent public schools in Box Hill – including a public preschool, primary school, and high school – all three of which will open on Day 1, Term 1 2028.

All schools and preschool will be co-located on Terry Road, Box Hill, easing the pressure of drop-off and pick-up for local families.

When opened, both the new primary and high schools will cater for 1,000 students each, with the room for the high school to expand as the student cohort grows. A public preschool will also be delivered on-site, providing quality, fee-free early learning for up to 120 children per week.

Minns Government fast-tracks public education access in Box Hill

The Minns Labor Government is also expanding access to the temporary Box Hill Public School that opened to Kindergarten to Year 2 students on Day 1, Term 1 this year.

From Day 1, Term 3 this year, it will now welcome students from Years 3 to 6, providing a world class education to even more students while their permanent school is built.

This temporary school was built by the Minns Labor Government in a record 45 days.

An additional temporary high school is also being built on the same site as the temporary primary school.

From Day 1, Term 1 2026, the temporary Box Hill High School will open for Year 7 students, and the school will grow as more classes are added in subsequent years.

Record Investment in North West schools and preschools

Box Hill and Gables was identified by the Government’s Enrolment Growth Audit as one of the top 10 areas for student growth in the state.

The former Liberal National Government failed to deliver any public schools for this area over their 12 years in government, despite student enrolments growing from 119 in 2018, to 1,445 in 2023 – a 1,114 per cent increase.

These new public schools and preschools build on the Minns Labor Government’s major investment in school infrastructure across The Hills area, with seven new and upgraded schools delivering approximately 240 new permanent classrooms and providing capacity for 5,500 students.

The projects expanding student capacity and access to public schools in The Hills area include:

• New primary school and public preschool in Gables
• Major upgrade at Excelsior Public School
• Major upgrade at Rouse Hill High School
• New Box Hill Public School and public preschool
• New Box Hill High School
• Major upgrade at Matthew Pearce Public School
• Major upgrade at Castle Hill Public School

These three schools are a part of the Minns Labor Government’s record $9 billion investment in public school infrastructure across NSW over the next four years. This includes a commitment to deliver 100 public preschools by 2027, with 51 to be built in Western Sydney.

Premier Chris Minns said:

“My father was a public school teacher so I know how important world class public education is, but it starts with having local public schools built in growing communities like this.

“Thousands of families moved into this area on the promise of new schools that were never delivered by the former government – we’re delivering those schools, with construction underway and doors set to open for thousands of local kids.

“This is all part of our plan to deliver a world class education for every child in NSW by delivering new and upgraded schools and fee-free preschools while investing in our teachers through a historic pay rise that has seen a 40 per cent drop in teacher vacancies since we were elected.”

Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning, and Acting Minister for Western Sydney Courtney Houssos said:

“The Minns Labor Government, with the strong advocacy of Deputy Premier Prue Car, is committed to rebuilding public education to provide local communities with free high-quality education.

“The Liberals and Nationals failed communities right across The Hills because they didn’t properly plan for essential infrastructure like schools and hospitals that families in these growing suburbs need.

“Every child deserves access to a great local public school, and these schools are being delivered as quickly as possible for the local community who have fought hard to have their educational needs met.” 

Federal Attorney-General and Member for Greenway, Michelle Rowland said:

“I’m proud to see the first sod turned on a new public school that will become a hub for the Gables community.

“This school is not just bricks and mortar—it’s an investment in the future of our children and something this community has waited years for.

“I’m thrilled to see this project forging ahead and I look forward to seeing the finished product that will benefit families in our growing community for generations to come.”

The Minns Labor Government is building more inclusive communities for older people by partnering with community groups and councils to host activities and events that encourage seniors to remain active, engaged and healthy.

Applications are now open for the $200,000 NSW Seniors Festival Grant Program 2026, with funding of up to $5,000 and $10,000 available for events taking place during next year’s festival taking place from 2-15 March.

The theme for 2026 is ‘Live life in colour’, to encourage seniors to celebrate new adventures and embrace creativity, new connections and an active lifestyle.

The annual festival is the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, attracting more than 500,000 people across the state to attend free and low-cost activities and events focusing on art, sport, music, entertainment, technology, travel, health, wellbeing and recreation.

This year, 35 organisations hosted events across the state that were attended by about 17,000 older people, including bush dances, art retreats, fitness classes and high teas.

The grant program offers funding of $1,500 to $5,000 for community programs and activities, and up to $10,000 for local government hosted large-scale activities.

The Seniors Festival is the Minns Labor Government’s way to celebrate our state’s seniors and thank them for their continuing contributions to our local communities. Importantly, it is a key part of our actions to build inclusive, age-friendly communities for older people, so they can stay safe, active and healthy.

Applications close on Tuesday 12 August 2025. Applicants should visit the grants program website to see past recipients understand the types of events that receive funding.

Visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/seniors-festival-grants-program/nsw-seniors-festival-grant-program-2026 to apply. Regional applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.

Minister for Seniors, Jodie Harrison said:

“There are about 1.9 million people aged 60 and over in New South Wales – or about 23 per cent of the state’s population – and they are important members of our community who should be recognised and celebrated.

“Each year the NSW Seniors Festival brings joy and laughter to thousands of our seniors. These grants help ensure that the festival extends across the state, providing opportunities for all seniors to get involved, enjoy new experiences, continue learning, and stay active and connected.

“I strongly encourage local governments and community groups – especially those in our regional areas – to apply to host events and activities for a seniors audience at next year’s Festival.”

The Minns Labor Government has delivered another blow to the state’s small businesses in its recent Budget by axing funding for the highly successful Service NSW Business Connect program.
 
Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said small businesses are the engine room of our economy and the backbone of local communities.
 
“They’re run by mums and dads, and young entrepreneurs giving it a go.
 
“Cutting support like Business Connect doesn’t just hurt balance sheets; it hurts jobs, confidence, and the next generation of business owners.
 
“Government should be making it easier to succeed, not harder,” Mr Speakman said.
 
Shadow Minister for Small Business Tim James said the decision to defund the program was short-sighted and deeply damaging.
 
“The Minns Labor Government has turned its back on small businesses at a time when they are grappling with soaring costs, weak consumer confidence and economic uncertainty,” Mr James said. “NSW leads the nation in number of business insolvencies.”
 
Business Connect has supported thousands of small businesses across NSW by providing up to 8 hours of free, one-on-one tailored advice that assists businesses with strategic guidance, digital marketing, financial planning, business resilience and more.

“Business Connect has delivered real and tangible assistance to small businesses, but despite positive feedback from small business on the benefits, Labor has pulled out the axe.”
 
The program is now scheduled to end on 30 September 2025.
 
“These cuts will hurt already struggling small businesses. It’s not just a cut to advice, it’s a cut to confidence, innovation and jobs,” Mr James said. “It’s a cruel irony given Labor’s record spending and growing debt.”
 
The Liberal and National Opposition is calling on the Minns Labor Government to urgently reverse this decision and commit to continuing to fund Business Connect services.
 
“Small business owners deserve better than to be abandoned by the Minns Labor Government,” Mr James said.