Category: NSW News

The Minns Labor Government has renewed its commitment to protect workers from dust diseases with its new $2.5 million state-of-the -art Lung Health Mobile Clinic which is providing lung health checks to thousands of people across New South Wales.

The new lung bus is currently in Tweed Heads to provide lung screening checks. These lung health checks can be lifesaving by ensuring early detection and treatment of dust diseases like asbestosis, silicosis and mesothelioma.

The lung bus program provides free lung screening checks to more than 5,000 workers annually in regional NSW.

The icare Lung Bus is travelling the length and breadth of the state, including visits to Newcastle, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Taree, Tuncurry, Spears Point, Gosford, Nowra, Shellharbour, Port Kembla, Bathurst, Dubbo, Broken Hill, Wagga Wagga, Griffith and Tamworth.

The new mobile clinic features several innovations including:

• Digital chest X-ray technology, providing precise and reliable first instance imaging.
• Enhanced spirometry (lung function) testing equipment to evaluate breathing capacity and respiratory performance.
• Digital monitoring systems to streamline diagnostics and care.
• A backup power supply to ensure uninterrupted operation in remote locations.
• Greater accessibility and comfort, with larger clinical space designed to support both staff and clients.

The brand-new Lung Bus continues the legacy of the state’s original mobile service which served the community for nearly 16 years.

That Bus travelled more than 700,000km (more than 17 times around the world), screening more than 53,000 people, and visiting over 300 destinations across NSW.

This is one of many measures to protect workers from dust diseases, including those caused by silica and asbestos.

The Minns Labor Government has established a new Expert Taskforce to oversee and help address silica related health risks for workers in tunnelling projects

The Minns Labor Government has established a new Expert Taskforce to help address silica related health risks in tunnelling projects, following revelations of rising silicosis cases in tunnelling leading up to 2023 and led the campaign for the national ban on engineered stone which started last year.

The NSW Government is funding a team of dedicated silica safety inspectors to ensure businesses are complying with its strengthened laws.

Workers can also arrange a free lung screening at icare’s Sydney CBD clinic, or with local providers regionally when the lung bus is not in that part of the state. To book a free lung health check, contact icare on 1800 550 027.

Whilst lung bus bookings are at capacity, for more information on lung health checks or to arrange a screening, visit the icare website.

More information on the full list of Lung Bus destinations can be found on the icare website.

Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said:

“The new Mobile Clinic underscores the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to removing barriers like cost and location, ensuring workers across NSW have access to the critical support and care they need to safeguard their health.

“Along with enforcement of the recent ban on engineered stone, the new Lung Bus demonstrates our commitment to improve outcomes for workers exposed to hazardous dust across NSW.”

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:

“I welcome the $2.5 million investment into the new icare Lung Bus which will provide thousands of health checks for people living in regional NSW.

“Our regional communities remain front and centre when it comes to ensuring early detection and treatment of dust diseases like asbestosis, silicosis, and mesothelioma.”

Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said:

“It’s great that the icare Lung Bus is a service that comes right to our doorstep here on the North Coast so people don’t have to travel to see specialists in big cities if they want to get a check-up.

“These health checks can save lives. Diagnosing and treating dust-related diseases earlier gives people the best possible chance.”

Member for Tweed Geoff Provest said:

“I welcome the new Lung Health Mobile Clinic to Tweed Heads.

“It’s important workers who may have been exposed to dust related diseases are screened early and often.

“The new iCare Lung Bus helps provide important screening services directly to the areas where it is needed most.”

Icare Group Executive of General Insurance and Care, Britt Coombe said:

“A lung health check could save your life.

“Early detection is critical to effective treatment, and we’re here to make sure every worker, no matter where they live, has access to world-class care.”

Grafton and surrounding communities are being given a look at the latest designs for the Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment with new artist impressions showcasing the new hospital building and improved access to the facility.

The NSW Government is investing $263.8 million in the Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment to provide new and enhanced health services for the region.

The design for the redevelopment will integrate new and existing facilities on the campus to preserve the identity and history of the hospital. It will deliver a new three-storey building, including a new Emergency Department, Emergency Short Stay, Medical Imaging and MRI, and inpatient unit.

The Day Surgery and Operating Suite will also be expanded, which will provide additional operating theatres, increasing overall capacity.

The new building will provide a space for maternity services to be relocated in the future, as well as identifying zones for potential further development.

A new inpatient building, located on the north-east side of the campus, will be seamlessly integrated into the existing hospital via a new hospital street at the current public main entrance. This will connect to a lobby in the new building to enhance access.

The redevelopment will improve access to the hospital for patients, visitors and staff including public access to the hospital from Arthur Street, with a turning circle drop-off zone for visitors, and access to existing on-street parking spaces.

Staff and service-related access remains on Crown Street, with the new services yard positioned at the northern end of the campus to support operational needs.

The landscaping design will create a welcoming space for patients, visitors and staff, incorporating culturally inclusive elements that reflect the local region. This includes a ceremonial area outside the existing Aboriginal Health Unit, native plantings, winding pathways to symbolise the Clarence River, and a welcoming forecourt. 

Valuable feedback and input from staff, stakeholders and the community will continue to help shape the redevelopment.

The Grafton community is invited to learn more about the redevelopment at pop-up sessions at Grafton Shoppingworld on:

Tuesday, 13 May, 3:00pm-5:00pm

Wednesday, 14 May, 9:00am-11:00am

Construction timeframes will be confirmed once planning has been finalised, and a main works builder is appointed. 

As part of early works for the project, construction is progressing to refurbish two administration blocks within the minimum-security section of the old Grafton Gaol to provide contemporary administration, office and training support facilities for hospital staff.

Clinical services will remain on the existing Grafton Base Hospital site.

For more information, visit the project website: hinfra.health.nsw.gov.au/projects/project-search/grafton-base-hospital-redevelopment

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park:

“The Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment will deliver modern treatment spaces to support contemporary models of care and improve capacity. 

“We are excited to share more about this important project with the Grafton community at a series of upcoming information sessions.

“Planning for the redevelopment has been carried out in close consultation with clinical staff, ensuring a strong focus on delivering on identified clinical priorities.”

Government Spokesperson for Clarence, Emily Suvaal MLC:

“I’m really proud to be part of a government which is investing in regional healthcare.

“The redevelopment project at Grafton will ensure the facility remains fit for purpose to treat patients for many years to come, and it also ensures it will be a welcome place for our hardworking staff to come to work.”

The Minns Labor Government will today introduce legislation to the NSW Parliament significantly reforming the state’s victims registers to ensure victim-survivors of serious crimes receive a mandatory notification about their right to sign up as a registered victim-survivor, to receive critical information about an offender.

The three NSW victims registers include the Corrective Services NSW Victims Register, Youth Justice Victims Register, and Specialist Victims Register for victims of forensic patients.

Those who opt-in to the registers will receive timely, accurate and trauma-informed updates regarding the perpetrator’s progress through the custodial system. 

This may include details about the offender’s location, sentence, parole eligibility, and any changes that may affect the victim’s safety and well-being. 

Registered victim-survivors also have the right to make a submission about an offender’s parole where relevant.

Over several months, Corrective Services NSW has hosted consultation meetings with victim-survivors, victim advocates, and victim support services to ensure these changes reflect the views of the people the registers serve.

Eligible victims of serious offenders will receive a mandatory notification letting them know about the relevant register and their eligibility to opt-in.

If victim-survivors do not want to make a decision at the time, they will have the option to be contacted at a later date to discuss the benefits of registration and decide whether they would like to be registered.

Generally, the serious offenders that will cause a mandatory notification about the victims registers to be sent to a victim-survivor or family member will be:

• an offender who has committed murder
• an offender who is serving a sentence of life imprisonment
• an offender who is serving one or more sentences, totalling a minimum of 12 years in custody, for offences such as attempted murder, serious sexual assault, abduction and aggravated robbery.

Family members of the victim will be notified if the victim is deceased, incapacitated or under the age of 18.

Ensuring victim-survivors continue to have the choice to register is considered to strike the appropriate balance between ensuring that victim-survivors are aware of their right to be on the register, while importantly maintaining victims’ choice and avoiding re-traumatisation.

The Minns Labor Government acknowledges the severe impacts for people directly or indirectly exposed to crime.

A person who has experienced personal violence can suffer long-lasting trauma and the feeling that their safety and security are under threat.

It is for this reason that the Minns Labor Government has begun these important reforms to the three victims registers to bolster support for victim-survivors of serious crimes.

Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong:

“These reforms are about ensuring that victim-survivors of serious crimes know about the victims registers and have a clear opportunity to sign up and benefit from being registered.

“We have listened to the voices of victim-survivors, and we are responding to their call to improve the system, whilst balancing the critical need to avoid re-traumatising those victim-survivors who do not wish to be re-exposed to the heinous crimes of their offenders.

“Signing up to the victims registers will allow victim-survivors to receive vital information and a choice to engage in fundamental legal processes that will have a direct impact on their lives – things like opposing the perpetrator’s parole and being informed if they are going to be released from prison.

“No-one chooses to become the victim of a violent crime, and that is why the Minns Labor Government is doing everything within our power to support and empower victim-survivors in the aftermath of a crime.

“Eligible victim-survivors of serious offenders deserve the choice to be on the victims registers and be given the knowledge and agency to engage with the justice system, ensuring no-one is left behind.”

Attorney General Michael Daley:

“Community safety is at the heart of this reform allowing victim-survivors to be aware of, and to opt-in to receive important updates about an offender’s sentencing and parole.

“This is important to help victim-survivors engage in the legal process in a way that is empowering and promotes recovery.”

Corrective Services NSW Commissioner Gary McCahon PSM:

“Corrective Services NSW works tirelessly to support victim-survivors through the CSNSW Victims Register. 

“Our highly trained, trauma-informed staff have seen first-hand the impact that good communication can have on the healing process.

“From the moment an offender enters custody, we keep registered victim-survivors up-to-date on all significant information.

“We can also assist victim-survivors to have their voices heard when important decisions are being made regarding an offender’s release.

“Our aim is to give victim-survivors back some of the power they lose when they are exposed to crime.

“A person who has experienced personal violence can suffer long-lasting trauma and the feeling that their safety and security are under threat.

“Knowing that information will be made available at key milestones, particularly around the timing of release to the community, can provide reassurance to those victim-survivors who wish to receive such information and help them to better plan for their safety.”

Victims Advocate Howard Brown OAM:

“These reforms will ensure that victim-survivors of serious crimes will now have knowledge and information about the victims registers, and the opportunity to sign up to them if they choose to.

“The victims registers are able to provide the kind of information that victim-survivors may feel that they need to be able to take back control of their lives, sometimes many years after a serious crime has been committed against them.

“Maximising free and full access to such a vital resource like the victims registers is a major step toward healing for victim-survivors.”

The Minns Labor Government today announced a $400,000 investment in women’s football as a benefit of NSW hosting of 11 games at next year’s AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™.

The NSW Football Legacy Program features five initiatives that will aim to develop the women’s game at all levels and leave a lasting legacy from NSW hosting games at the tournament, including the Final at Stadium Australia on 21 March.
Initiatives delivered under the Program include:

• Women in Leadership Program: empower women in football to have stronger confidence and a positive influence on the sport, build a network of advocates and prepare them to take on or advance their leadership positions.
• Body Image and Well Being Program: educate and build confidence in young female representative footballers (National Premier League) aged 13 – 18 years in relation to body image and wellbeing.
• Flexible Football Initiative: remove barriers to entry to grassroots football through flexible football format options for women
• Coach and Referee Mentor Program: create role models within football to improve and increase the number of suitably qualified and experienced female coaches and referees.
• First Nations Football: Provide pathway opportunities to first nations footballers aged 14 -16 years and coaches within high performance environments.

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:

“Women’s sport has seen tremendous growth and success in recent years, including the unforgettable performances of the Matildas at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™.

“The Minns Labor Government wants to ensure that the momentum from that tournament and NSW’s hosting of 11 games at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ leaves a lasting legacy for women’s football in NSW at all levels.

“The initiatives delivered through the NSW Football Legacy Program will ensure football is a safe, inclusive and supportive environment for women and girls to play the World Game.

“Importantly, the Program will play a vital role in enabling young female footballers to develop a better understanding of the challenges that can stop them playing, like body image, resilience and confidence.

“The NSW Football Legacy Program is a key outcome of the NSW Government’s women’s sport strategy; Play Her Way which aims to enable more women and girls to play and stay involved in sport.”

Football NSW CEO John Tsatsimas said:

“Football NSW has experienced unprecedented growth in female football and we are delighted with the NSW Government’s continued commitment to our game.

“The initiatives being supported, including the Empower Her body image and wellbeing program, will help to ensure that football is an accessible, safe and enjoyable sport for women and girls across the state.

“We look forward to seeing the impact of these new and expanded programs over the coming years as Football NSW continues towards the goal of gender parity in our game.”

Northern NSW Football (NNSWF) CEO Peter Haynes said:

“Northern NSW Football is thrilled to receive this contribution from the NSW government, which will have a lasting impact on women and girls’ football in our region.

“This support will allow NNSWF to further enhance its Women in Football Leadership program, Coach and Referee Mentor Programs and First Nations Football activities.

“Investments in women’s football like this make a real difference to our football community and we appreciate the NSW government’s commitment to football in northern NSW.”

Football Australia General Manager – Women’s Football Carlee Millikin said:

“Football Australia welcomes the NSW Government’s commitment of an additional $400,000 to the NSW Football Legacy Program.

“In 2024, we saw participation of women and girls in New South Wales soar up 9 per cent on 2023 levels. It’s a powerful sign that the legacy of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 is still being felt, and it’s only just the beginning.

“With New South Wales set to host the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in 2026, we have another incredible opportunity to elevate the game even further—igniting passion, driving participation, and inspiring the next generation of footballers.

“This ongoing investment means we can keep building on the momentum, expanding our leadership pathways and unlocking new opportunities across every level of the game.

“We’re excited to continue this journey with the NSW Government, Football NSW, Northern NSW Football, and the entire football community—because together, we’re creating a future where football truly belongs to everyone.”

The Minns Labor Government investing more than $6.9 million to develop a new refuge for victim-survivors of domestic and family violence in Wingecarribee.

The new Core and Cluster refuge will be delivered by Hume Community Housing (Hume). With a development site now acquired, the refuge is expected to be completed in 2026.

The project will include six self-contained units that enable independent living, family and pet-friendly common areas, and private spaces for residents to receive on-site support.

The refuge will be a critical addition to the local service system supporting women and children leaving violence.

It will be located in a peaceful area that is also close to public transport and other amenities, ensuring women and children have easy access to schools, shops, and essential support services.

Hume has more than 30 years’ experience delivering affordable and social housing across NSW, and already provides social, affordable, and specialist disability housing for more than 9,000 people.

The NSW Government has invested $426.6 million over four years in the Core and Cluster program, which provides women and childing fleeing violent situations with crisis accommodation and on-site counselling, legal assistance, education, and employment support.

Once completed, the 49 Core and Cluster projects will support more than an additional 2,900 victim-survivors of domestic violence each year.

This is part of the Minns Labor Government’s whole of government, whole of community response to domestic and family violence in the state. With an additional $245.6 million in last year’s budget, the government is working to boost crisis response, reform bail laws and hold perpetrators accountable, as well as intervene earlier so violence doesn’t escalate and roll out the state’s first dedicated Primary Prevention Strategy.

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said:

“Domestic and family violence is a major cause of homelessness in New South Wales – that’s why we are committed to delivering more housing solutions for women and children escaping violent and abusive situations.

“We want victim-survivors to know they will have a safe place to stay when they leave an abusive relationship.

“More than just a roof over their head, these new refuges also ensure women and their children have the support they need to heal and rebuild their lives.”

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said:

“There is an urgent need for housing across the state, especially for women and children fleeing domestic and family violence.

“Through the Core and Cluster program, the New South Wales Government will deliver 49 new refuges for victim-survivors of domestic violence – many in regional and rural parts of the state – including one here in the Wingecarribee LGA.

“The design of these projects means residents will not only have the privacy of independent living areas but also have access to on-site support, so they can recover from the trauma they’ve experienced and learn to live free from violence and the fear of violence.”

Labor spokesperson for Goulburn Bob Nanva MLC said:

“There is nothing as important as having access to a safe and secure home. These refuges will not only provide shelter, they will provide a sense of peace and hope for families in need.”

Brad Braithwaite, CEO of Hume Community Housing said:

“Domestic and family violence is the leading cause of homelessness for women and children. If we are going to address domestic violence we must invest in housing, Mr Braithwaite said.

“Access to safe housing should never be the reason why a woman or child stays in a violent, abusive home. Hume is proud to be partnering with the NSW Government and Women’s Community Shelters to deliver and asset manage this independent living refuge and core facility.

“At Hume we believe everyone should have access to a safe, secure and affordable home.”

The Minns Labor Government’s rebuild of Willyama High School is one step closer with work to demolish the school’s old buildings set to begin, marking a significant milestone in the delivery of a state-of-the-art campus for the Broken Hill community.

The Minns Labor Government committed to fully rebuild Willyama High School last year after a severe mould outbreak was discovered during the school holidays, and an independent hygienist determined the school could not be remediated without the risk of reoccurrence.

Early works to begin the demolition began this week, with full removal of the old school expected to be completed by October this year. This includes site establishment, disconnection of water and electrical services, the removal of hazardous materials, followed by demolition.

Demolition works, while essential for retaining play and open space at the school, will not impact the timeline of works on the new school. During the demolition process, work on finalising the school design will continue. Feedback from more than 100 face-to-face community information sessions is helping to shape the rebuild design to ensure the needs of the staff and students are met.

This includes the installation of air conditioning in all buildings, including the hall, as well as exploring opportunities for more staff spaces beyond the standard provision.

Catering for 730 students, the new Willyama High School will feature core facilities including a new hall and library, as well as 30 general and specialist classrooms (including four science classrooms), four support classrooms, two modern science labs, learning commons, multipurpose spaces.

A commercial kitchen will also be built to support VET courses as well as a new, fully equipped wood and metal workshop.

The draft master plan, which was shared with the community in March, has been designed to allow for future expansion, offering flexibility to meet the needs of potential future population growth.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to rebuilding public education across NSW, and has invested a record $8.9 billion for new and upgraded schools across the state – including an historic $1.4 billion for schools in regional areas.

Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said:

“The start of the demolition process is a significant milestone for students, teachers and families from Willyama High School and the Broken Hill community.

“As Broken Hill farewells the old Willyama High School, I give them my word that we will rebuild a fantastic and modern school that this community will value for generations to come.

“We deeply appreciate the patience, resilience, and understanding shown by students, families, and staff through what has been a challenging time.

“I strongly believe we have the opportunity to deliver a new school that will inspire confidence in the future of Broken Hill and showcase the exceptional public education that your local area delivers.”

Minister for Western New South Wales Tara Moriarty said:

“While this may be a bittersweet goodbye to a well-known community building, the families of Broken Hill can rest assured the Minns Labor Government is on track to rebuild the new Willyama High School.

“The new Willyama High School will deliver for the families of Broken Hill, who have shown great resilience during this difficult time.”

Member for Barwon Roy Butler said:

“I am pleased to see the NSW Government making rapid progress on delivering this important school rebuild for our Broken Hill community.

“With ongoing community input informing decisions, the new Willyama High School will be a significant improvement on the old school. A modern facility that reflects the current and future needs of students and staff. I look forward to seeing construction begin.”

The only reason the NSW Premier has now taken any action on the Eddie Obeid corruption cash is because the media exposed it weeks ago.
 
Weeks ago, when headlines broke that a convicted former Labor minister was allowed to keep $30 million in corrupt gains, we called immediately for legislation, but the Police Minister instead only offered a comment that she was appalled, and nothing could be done. The Premier yet again has had to clean up after his inept Police Minister.
 
The Minns Labor Government only acted once it was caught standing still. It’s a small target government and token stunts are all they have to offer.
 
Eddie Obeid, Ian Macdonald and Joe Tripodi weren’t outliers – they were at the heart of the last Labor Government.
 
We need an end to the weak, reactive culture of NSW Labor.
 
The public has had enough of slick media management and fake tough talk.

The Minns Labor Government is continuing to drive awareness about coercive control with new tailored campaigns for multicultural audiences, older people and people with disability.

Coercive control is domestic abuse and can cause serious harm.

It is a pattern of behaviour when someone repeatedly hurts, scares or isolates another person to control them. It can include physical violence and sexual abuse – but it doesn’t have to.

In NSW, it is a criminal offence when a person uses coercive control towards a current or former intimate partner.

Campaign expands to 5 new languages

Launching today, the multicultural campaign builds on the success of the previous year and uses the image of a spider’s web to reflect how coercive control traps victim-survivors over time with a pattern of behaviours designed to isolate, dominate and control them.

The campaign was developed in consultation with multicultural communities and will be translated into an additional five languages – Korean, Assyrian, Farsi, Punjabi and Tagalog – building on existing campaign materials in Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese and Arabic released last year.

It will be seen and heard on social media, in newspapers, on the radio and in discreet locations like public bathrooms and women’s only cultural spaces.

Results from the earlier campaign showed a broad social media approach was effective in connecting with harder-to-reach audiences. Importantly, tailored material for each language group meant local organisations could promote the campaign across their own channels, increasing reach.

The first in-language campaign also achieved impact, reaching more than 664,000 members of Mandarin- and Cantonese-speaking communities via Chinese apps, and more than 245,000 members of the Vietnamese- and Arabic-speaking communities on social media apps.

Campaign for seniors, people with disability

The campaign for older people and people with disability will commence Sunday 18 May with a focus on regional areas.

Advertisements in almost all regional news publications in New South Wales and on social media will feature real people who are older or who have disability, with information to promote an understanding of coercive controlling behaviours.

The scenarios depicted in the campaign will demonstrate what coercive control looks like so that people in the community can recognise what coercive control is, especially if they’re experiencing it or know someone who is.

Both campaigns aim to educate and empower victim-survivors to recognise the signs and seek help and provide practical information on where to go for culturally appropriate or relevant support.

The first coercive control awareness campaign was launched last year with extensive input and support from a wide range of stakeholders and communities.

More than 3 in 4 people who saw the campaign reported taking positive action such as reflecting on their own relationships and visiting the coercive control website for more information.

To find out more about coercive control, visit the NSW Government’s coercive control website. 

Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said:

“Coercive control doesn’t always look the same, but its impact is always serious.

“For people with disability, coercive control can be difficult to recognise and escape – especially if they rely on the person using coercive behaviours for daily support.

“That’s why these campaigns are so important—so everyone can recognise the signs, know it’s not okay, and understand where they can go for help.”

Attorney General Michael Daley said:

“Coercive control is an insidious pattern of behaviour used by perpetrators of domestic violence to isolate and control victim-survivors.

“It is a crime for someone to use coercive control against a current or former partner.

“This awareness campaign is important to show people how to recognise the signs of coercive control and where to go for help.”

Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said:

“Everyone deserves the right to resources that help them recognise and understand that coercive control is a criminal offence. The NSW Government is continuing to work hard so that everyone has the same access to information – regardless of their linguistic preference.

“We need to make sure everyone understands that coercive control in intimate partner relationships is against the law.” 

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said:

“Coercive control can manifest in many ways and it’s difficult to recognise because it can look different in different relationships and different communities.

“But it is abuse and can cause significant harm to someone, so it’s vital that we reach as many people as possible and build awareness and understanding of coercive control in the community.

“We want people to know that coercive control in intimate partner relationships is a criminal offence, it is against the law, and perpetrators will be held to account.”

Support:

If you’re in immediate danger, call Triple Zero [000] and ask for Police.

If you or someone you know is experiencing coercive control, call 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or visit 1800 RESPECT (Languages) for support and information. Available 24 hours, 7 days a week. 

If you are worried about your behaviour, call the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491. Available 24 hours, 7 days a week. This is a free, confidential and anonymous service.

If you need an interpreter, call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 and ask them to contact the service you would like to speak to.

The Minns Labor Government is backing Aussie musicians by incentivising the biggest international musical touring acts to add a home-grown support act to their bill when they perform at NSW’s largest venues.

The effect will be a reduced venue hire fee at Accor Stadium, Allianz Stadium, CommBank Stadium, McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle Entertainment Centre, the Sydney Cricket Ground and WIN Stadium and Entertainment Centre, along with Sydney Opera House in return for choosing a local act to open the show.

Australian music is facing its biggest challenge up against streaming services that favour American content and the decline of the local live scene that eroded venues during the lockouts then the COVID era.

Under the former Coalition government, NSW lost more than half its music venues. with just 133 registered across the state in March 2023. The Minns Labor Government is reviving the live music scene and has since grown the number to 435 through extending trading for venues that host local artists, but there is a need to get acts back on to the biggest stage to ensure Australia can continue to export our best talent to the world.

The NSW Government is the first in Australia to adopt ‘Michael’s Rule’, named after the late artist manager Michael McMartin OAM whose passion was to see Aussie talent included on the stadium tours that take bands and solo artists to a whole new level and audience.

Oasis will tour Australia in October and November and have asked Australia’s Ball Park Music to open for them while Dua Lipa gave Kita Alexander invaluable exposure as her support act during her tour of Australia and New Zealand.

Supporting the biggest tours is a proven pathway to success. Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers is now opening for Pearl Jam on a US stadium tour after doing so on their Australian tour. The Preatures, who supported Harry Styles, were able to book a 40-date regional tour as result.

Hoodoo Gurus, who were managed by Michael McMartin, saw their career take off after supporting Lou Reed in the 1980’s, while Cold Chisel opened for Foreigner in the 1970s. In the 1990s, You Am I played Australia shows with Soundgarden before touring the US with them, and the 2007 Daft Punk tour was crucial to the Presets and their Apocalypso album.

The incentive will see the NSW Government reduce the venue hire fee by $20,000 for each eligible show across the Venues NSW network, and a $5,000 reduction at Sydney Opera House.

To be eligible, at least one Australian artist must be included as a support act on an international artist’s headline tour. The Australian artist must appear on the same stage as the international artist and be announced at the same time as the tour.

The incentive will be available for an initial two-year period starting May 5.

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

“The Hoodoo Gurus got their first big break after they performed with Lou Reed in 1984.

“We want more Australian musicians to have that opportunity, performing on the biggest stages in NSW alongside the best international artists.

“Giving Aussie artists their first big break in front of thousands of locals will help them get high rotation on playlists and increase their chances of becoming the next big act.”

Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy John Graham said:

“There were just three Australian albums in the ARIA top 100 charts in 2024. This represents a crisis for Australian music.

“The rise of streaming is flooding our market with American music and creating a roadblock for NSW artists trying to break through. By adopting Michael’s Rule we will get more local acts on to the big stage.

“While local shows are suffering, fans are still paying the big money for big international acts. Michael’s Rule will help our local artists capture that attention.

“We want Australian artists to benefit from international touring revenue so they can build their own careers and take our music to the world. Successful bands and artists at the top of the industry are an important part for the overall scene in NSW which supports 14,000 jobs and adds $5.5 billion to the state economy.”

Minister for Sport and Minister for Jobs & Tourism Steve Kamper said:

“We are bringing the entertainment back to Sydney, last year we lifted the concert cap and now we have promoters currently holding enough dates for Allianz Stadium to fulfill the recently expanded concert cap. We want to see those dates locked in.

“To make the most of this uplift in entertainment, we want to see homegrown artists given the opportunity to grow their fanbase and the domestic music industry. The flow on effects of Michael’s Rule will be huge not only for the artists, but for the pubs and clubs around NSW which will be packed with the new fans of our homegrown artists.”

Head of Sound NSW Emily Collins said:

“Australian artists are fighting an uphill battle with streaming services and social media algorithms when it comes to having their music be discovered by new audiences.

“This Australian-first policy is one small way the NSW Government can throw its weight behind home-grown talent, and give them a platform with high exposure and a unique opportunity to supercharge their career. It’s also a great way to start introducing music-loving locals to some of our amazing talent and build lifelong fans, right here at home.”

Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers said:

“We are so happy to hear the news that the NSW Government are taking these steps to support Michael’s Rule. We received the news at the airport on our way to Nashville to support Pearl Jam so we are proof that having Australian artists on international tours at home really does impact careers. Hopefully other states will join the call!”

Ball Park Music said:

“There’s no denying the benefit of a big support slot. The opportunity to play your music live in front of a new audience is the best marketing we have as artists, the chance to showcase what we’re all about in the most real and authentic fashion.

“In our career to date, we’ve had – and continue to get – great support slots where we’ve seen a direct growth in our audience that often translates to a boost in our number of long-term fans, none of which would have discovered us without that exposure.

Any initiative that can help amplify Australian talent, increase exposure, and aid in building a long term and engaged audience is a massive step in the right direction.”

The Minns Labor Government’s Transport Oriented Development Program (TOD) is unlocking more homes and supporting localised housing solutions around North Wollongong, Cockle Creek and St Marys station.

Wollongong City Council, Penrith City Council and Lake Macquarie Council have all delivered plans to the NSW Government that will supersede the number of homes created under the TOD controls, including dedicated affordable housing, close to public transport and jobs across the three sites.

Hundreds of new jobs will be created to build the new housing, along with local services, vital infrastructure, and public domain upgrades to each of the precincts to support an increase in density.

The TOD program changes planning controls within 400 metres of 37 trains stations across Greater Sydney, the Central Coast, Illawarra-Shoalhaven and Hunter regions.

The TOD program was designed to deliver well-located homes, within walking distance of transport hubs. By building homes close to infrastructure, shops and jobs the Minns Government is building better communities.

Councils were given the opportunity to do their own local planning work and go above and beyond the TOD planning controls, however if councils missed their deadline, the TOD controls would be implemented.

Strategic planning work for each of the three sites will continue as the Minns Government looks to leverage government-owned land at Cockle Creek and St Marys.

The NSW Government will now work with each of the councils and the Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC) to progress strategic planning work.

To date, of the 37 sites, 28 have been adopted, with the final six to be finalised by early July 2025. There have been 34 development applications submitted across the Transport Oriented Development sites.

This is all part of the Minns Government’s plan to build a better NSW with more homes and services, so young people, families and key local workers have somewhere to live and in the communities they choose.

The proposals for these three precincts include:

North Wollongong (5,310 expected new dwellings)

Wollongong City Council has submitted an alternative site boundary that would avoid most flood-constrained land but deliver more dwellings as the TOD settings.

North Wollongong will now be transformed with capacity for new homes through amendments to the Local Environmental Plan (LEP) over the coming months.

Council has proposed amendments to the boundary of the precinct to avoid the most flood constrained land and ensure new high density residential development can be realised.

The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) is working with Council to make sure heritage values are maintained and affordable housing is delivered as part of redevelopment in this precinct.

St Marys (9,300 expected new homes and 8,360 new jobs)

Penrith City Council has produced a detailed master plan for the broader St Marys town centre, which includes the TOD area, that aims to facilitate around 9,300 new homes and more than 8,360 new jobs in St Marys by 2041.

Council had been working on the master plan and consulting with community for some time, and formed an agreement with the NSW Government to continue this process. They will now continue to work closely with government to deliver the masterplan. Delivery is planned to commence in the coming months, following finalisation of the implementation mechanisms.

Council’s masterplan exceeds the NSW Government’s TOD SEPP dwelling targets and will also support light industries through a consolidated commercial core with co-working and creative hubs. A small portion of residential land is also proposed to be rezoned for future public open space.

Cockle Creek (1,200 expected new homes)

Lake Macquarie Council have been working with the NSW Government on long-term plans for the Cockle Creek TOD, including the site owned by the Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC) at Munibung Rd, Boolaroo.

HCCDC will shortly finalise a proposal to rezone the site, which falls partly within the TOD area for Cockle Creek. The proposal will include up to 1,200 new homes for the area.

HCCDC, Lake Macquarie Council and the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure will work together to finalise the proposed rezoning over the coming months.

For more information visit the transport Oriented Development Program web page.

Minister for Western Sydney and Member for Londonderry Prue Car:

“Penrith City Council has put forward a locally-led plan for the future of St Marys.

“This plan is about both housing and jobs, creating more opportunities for residents to work and live locally.

“We’re also making sure that the infrastructure growing communities need is delivered.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said:

“Over the next 15 years, the TOD SEPP program is estimated to deliver more than 170,000 new homes in mid-rise dwellings to create vibrant communities close to transport, services and jobs.

“These three sites have been strategically chosen to support increased density in well-positioned locations and we are already seeing strong interest in renewing these areas and adding density so that these well-located suburbs can be home to more families in the future.

“Each of these precincts now has an ideal opportunity to reshape and reimagine their communities with new modern public domain upgrades and increased patronage for local businesses.”

Lord Mayor of Wollongong City Council Councillor Tania Brown said:

“This project doesn’t just bring housing, it brings jobs, investment, and more customers for our local businesses. It’s a positive step forward for the North Wollongong community.

“We know Wollongong is growing, and it’s important we have the right types of housing in the right places. This plan means we can proactively and thoughtfully manage that growth while balancing the CBD lifestyle, access to transport links and managing flood risk.”

Mayor of Penrith City Council Todd Carney:

“Penrith City Council is proud to lead the way in delivering smart, sustainable growth for our region. Our plan for St Marys puts community needs front and centre, with around 9,300 new homes and more than 8,360 new jobs in St Marys by 2041.

“We’ve led a place-based, evidence-based process that is going to transform St Marys, and it’s shaping up to be something really special.

“Our ability to deliver a comprehensive plan within the government’s timeframe shows the strength of Council’s vision and commitment to Penrith’s future.

“We look forward to the government making the plans in the short term so we can get on and deliver.”

Mayor of Lake Macquarie Council Adam Shultz said:

“We’ve been working closely with the Minns Government to make sure Cockle Creek is a well-planned, future-ready neighbourhood that delivers new homes without compromising what makes our city great.

“It’s exciting to see this project moving forward. With HCCDC and the NSW Government on board, we’re one step closer to transforming underused land into a thriving new part of our city.”