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This year’s Vivid Sydney food program is anticipated to be its biggest yet, showcasing an expanded lineup that celebrates the very best of NSW produce, growers and culinary talent.

With a strong focus on produce-led events, the program will shine a spotlight on the state’s exceptional ingredients and the people who bring them to life.

A standout event is The Long Table Dinner: NSW Icons of Land & Sea, a Vivid Sydney first, which will take over the historic Strand Arcade for one night only, showcasing NSW’s exceptional regional food and wine producers.

On 30 May 2026, guests will be invited to dine after hours inside the Strand Arcade, which will be transformed into an intimate, atmospheric long table setting.

Set beneath the heritage balconies and ornate detailing of one of Sydney’s most treasured buildings, the dinner will offer a rare opportunity to experience the Strand Arcade behind closed doors.

It will celebrate the richness, diversity and innovation of the state’s food and wine producers, championing provenance and craftsmanship at every turn.

Curated and hosted by acclaimed chef, restaurateur and cookbook author Nino Zoccali from The Restaurant Pendolino, the evening will pay homage to iconic NSW ingredients through a bespoke multi-course menu. 

Each dish will highlight world-leading producers from across the state, including select winners and nominees of the Royal Agricultural Society’s President’s Medal.

Guided by broadcaster Simon Marnie, the immersive dinner will blend culture, storytelling and fine dining in a way only a Vivid Food event can deliver.

From 22 May to 13 June 2026, Vivid Sydney will transform the city across 23 unforgettable nights. The program will be unveiled on 11 March, giving audiences even more to explore across light, music, food and minds.

Vivid Sydney is owned, managed and produced by the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW.

Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said:

“Culinary tourism is central to the NSW visitor experience, and Vivid Sydney once again celebrates the best our state has to offer.  

“This year’s Vivid Food program is anticipated to be the largest yet. Celebrating NSW’s most iconic food and wine producers, with a long‑table dining experience in a Vivid Sydney first in the historic Strand Arcade will be truly unforgettable.

“NSW Icons of Land and Sea will showcase the strength of this sector and the important role it plays in powering our state’s visitor economy.”

Festival Director Brett Sheehy AO said:

“This year’s Vivid Food program explores the connection between food and memory, how every dish holds a story and every flavour carries the spirit of where it came from.

“With the unbeatable ingredients of the winning produce from the Royal Agricultural Society, legendary chef Nino Zoccali, stories of NSW’s culinary culture, and one of the most gorgeous arcades in the world, this event promises to be an unforgettable highlight of Vivid Sydney 2026. Please join us!”

Chef Nino Zoccali from The Restaurant Pendolino said:

“The Restaurant Pendolino is thrilled to be part of Vivid Sydney, showcasing the exceptional food and wine of NSW within one of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks, the Strand Arcade. In collaboration with the Royal Agricultural Society’s Fine Food Show, the event will spotlight the very best world class produce and wines the state has to offer.”

Business Sydney Executive Director Paul Nicolaou said:

“Vivid Sydney is a powerful celebration of the creativity, culture and community that make Sydney so special.

“By opening our city’s iconic buildings for unique winter experiences – including this year’s NSW Icons: Land of Land & Sea at the historic Strand Arcade – the festival brings a renewed vibrancy to the Harbour City, invites everyone to connect with these treasured places in inspiring new ways, and reinforces Sydney’s position as a global destination for arts, innovation and immersive storytelling.”

President of the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW, John Bennett said:

“The Royal Agriculture Society of NSW is honoured to collaborate with The Restaurant Pendolino for this year’s Vivid Sydney festival, offering guests an unforgettable food and wine experience that celebrates Sydney Royal’s award-winning producers and one of the city’s most accomplished chefs.”

The Minns Labor Government is abandoning thousands of children at risk because the state’s child protection system is collapsing under the weight of chronic understaffing.
 
Recent media reports show that that tens of thousands of children assessed as ‘at risk‑of‑significant‑harm’ (ROSH) have not received timely intervention, or intervention at all.
 
Shadow Minister for Families and Communities, Natasha Maclaren-Jones, said that this data shows that the Minns Labor Government is failing vulnerable children because it is struggling to retain experienced caseworkers and meet statutory response times and responsibilities.
 
“The Minister responsible for protecting vulnerable children is presiding over a system where capacity, not risk, determines whether a child is seen,” Mrs Maclaren-Jones said.
 
“Our child protection caseworkers are doing their best under impossible circumstances and chronic understaffing, they should never have to choose which children get help and which do not.”
 
“With a vacancy rate of 14% in some areas and chronic understaffing, the Minns Labor Government is effectively abandoning thousands of children at risk with no home visit, no assessment and no follow‑up.”
 
Independent audits have shown thousands of ROSH reports remain unallocated, meaning no action is taken to assess or support vulnerable children.
 
The Government has been given repeated warnings from frontline workers and no action has been taken.
 
“Caseworkers are being set up to fail, and the Minister is doing nothing,” Mrs Maclaren-Jones said.
 
“They are being asked to make life‑and‑death decisions in a system the NSW Ombudsman has called ‘inefficient, ineffective, and unsustainable’.”
 
The NSW Liberals and Nationals are calling for a parliamentary inquiry to examine the under‑resourcing of the child protection system.
 
“There must be a parliamentary inquiry into the under‑resourcing of the child protection system, including the backlog of unallocated ROSH reports and the government’s compliance with statutory obligations,” Mrs Mclaren-Jones said.

The Minns Labor Government is supporting councils and councillors across NSW to work more closely with Aboriginal people, organisations and communities to help close the gap with the launch of a new toolkit developed in partnership with Local Government NSW and the Coalition of Aboriginal Peak Organisations (CAPO).

The NSW Closing the Gap Toolkit for Local Government includes practical examples and case studies from across NSW, templates for planning and policy making and a self-assessment tool to guide councils on their progress.

The toolkit is a key initiative that came out of the NSW Closing the Gap Partnership Agreement, which was signed by the NSW Government, NSW CAPO and Local Government NSW in February 2024.

Local councils are often the closest level of government to Aboriginal communities, particularly in regional and remote areas. This means councils are well positioned to work in partnership with Aboriginal organisations to support local Aboriginal-led Closing the Gap initiatives and deliver benefits to the community.

The new toolkit includes guidance for how councils can align their strategic operational planning with each of the Closing the Gap Priority Reforms, with case studies from across NSW including Tamworth Regional, Orange City and Inner West Councils.

As a case in point, in 2025, Tamworth Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (TACCO) and Tamworth Regional Council signed Australia’s first formal Closing the Gap partnership between an Aboriginal community-controlled organisation and a local council.

The development of such partnerships aligns with ‘Priority Reform 1, ‘formal partnership and shared decision making’, from the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.

Councils can also use a new self-assessment tool to determine their areas of strength and opportunities for improvement in how they work with Aboriginal communities and organisations in their region.

The toolkit is now available to download: https://lgnsw.org.au/Public/Public/Policy/Closing-the-Gap-Toolkit/close-the-gap.aspx

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said:

“The NSW Government is committed to working in partnership with Aboriginal people to Close the Gap.

“When Aboriginal voices are at the centre of decision-making, solutions are more effective, locally relevant, and the evidence shows it leads to better outcomes.

“All levels of government – local, state and federal – must work together, in genuine partnership with Aboriginal people and communities to make real change.

“This toolkit is about ensuring every council — regardless of size — can play their part in Closing the Gap in partnership with Aboriginal communities.”
Local Government NSW President, Mayor Darcy Byrne said:

“Across NSW, councils continue to do some extraordinary work with their local Aboriginal communities. I am proud of the local government sector in NSW for leading by example in our concerted effort at Closing the Gap.

“This toolkit gives councils practical ways to continue to strengthen how we plan, partner and deliver with Aboriginal communities. By working in genuine partnership, we can build trust, support shared decision making and achieve better outcomes for everyone.

“This toolkit strengthens the way councils work alongside Aboriginal communities, supporting more meaningful and effective collaboration. Councils understand that when decisions are shaped locally, the results are better for everyone. “

NSW CAPO Co-Chair Cr Charles Lynch said:

“Closing the Gap is a shared responsibility across all levels of government. Under the National Agreement, decisions that affect Aboriginal people need to be made through formal partnership and shared decision-making.

“Local government plays a critical role in communities across NSW, particularly in regional and remote areas.

“We welcome this commitment from LGNSW and the development of this toolkit as a practical step to support councils to work in partnership with Aboriginal communities and organisations, and deliver on their commitments under the National Agreement.

“We look forward to working alongside LGNSW to strengthen local partnerships and ensure that Closing the Gap is implemented in a way that delivers tangible outcomes on the ground.”

As thousands of students across NSW have commenced the academic year this week at university, TAFE and other vocational education, NSW Fair Trading is reminding renters to keep their rental rights in mind before they sign on the dotted line.

With more than 431,000 students enrolled across NSW universities, and a further 218,465 enrolled in TAFE, many young people will be moving out of home for the first time. This monumental life change makes it crucial for students and other first-time renters to understand their protections and obligations before signing a lease. 

Students entering into leases should understand their rights and responsibilities in NSW, including:

• Always have a written lease agreement: A written agreement outlines key terms, such as rent amounts, how often you pay rent, bond requirements, and other responsibilities. The landlord must give you a copy of the signed lease agreement – that includes their full contact details and, if there is agent, the contact details of the agent.
• Know how a rental bond works: A bond cannot be more than four weeks’ rent and is fully refundable at the end of the tenancy, provided there is no unpaid rent or damage. Landlords and agents must lodge all bonds with NSW Fair Trading.
• Understand landlord responsibilities: Landlords have several legal responsibilities they must meet under a tenancy agreement, including providing and maintaining the property in a safe, liveable condition and completing necessary repairs.
• Know your rights when it comes to evictions: Landlords and agents must have valid grounds to evict a renter and must follow the correct legal process. No-grounds evictions are now banned in NSW.
• Where to seek support: If students are unsure about their rights or responsibilities, they can contact NSW Fair Trading for information and guidance on rental matters, including bonds, rent, and repairs. NSW Fair Trading can also assist renters and their landlord or agent in resolving disputes about their tenancy agreement.
• Where to seek legal assistance: To find your nearest Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service, visit www.tenants.org.au or call 1800 251 101.

Students should also be aware of the landmark rental reforms introduced by the Minns Labor Government, which have created new protections for renters.

These changes include:

• Limiting rental increases to once a year.
• Giving renters security by banning no-grounds evictions.
• Saving renters money by mandating fee-free ways to pay their rent.
• Banning solicited rent bidding so renters can’t be coerced into offering higher rent to secure a place to live.
• Funding the NSW Rental Taskforce to protect renters by enforcing the new laws.
• Delivering the free Rent Check website so people can be sure what they’re asking to pay in rent is fair.

For more information on your rights as a renter, please visit the NSW Fair Trading website.

For more information on sharing a rental property, please visit the NSW Fair Trading website.

Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“Students deserve stability and certainty when securing a home, and the Minns Labor Government’s landmark rental reforms help ensure they get exactly that.

“This Government has banned no-grounds evictions, funded crucial tools and delivered tangible policies to help renters save money – and we want everyone to know about it.

“Renters deserve to enjoy the full extent of these changes, especially if they’re entering into their first lease.   

“That’s why we’re making it easier to understand your rights, manage costs, and feel secure in your living arrangements.”

NSW Rental Commissioner Trina Jones said:

“Renting as a student has long been a rite of passage for young people, but understanding rental rights and obligations early helps prevent disputes and ensures a safe, fair living arrangement.

“Starting tertiary study is an exciting milestone, and for many students it’s the first time living out of home. We want young renters to feel confident, informed, and protected when securing accommodation.

“We encourage all students to take the time to read their rental agreements, ask questions, and never sign anything they don’t fully understand. Students are encouraged to contact NSW Fair Trading to report breaches of rental laws.”

The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its election commitment to employ an extra 1,000 apprentices across NSW Government agencies, with 71 new apprentices and trainees kicking off their careers at Transport for NSW worksites this month.

From filling potholes to rebuilding flood‑damaged roads, planning major works and maintaining heavy vehicles, the new Roads Maintenance and Resilience recruits will join and support frontline teams strengthening the state’s transport network.

Following group inductions in Wollongong, Newcastle and Dubbo, the new recruits will soon get their hands on the tools.

They join an existing group of 92 apprentices and trainees progressing through the program from previous intakes.

More than just a foot in the door, the program offers the chance to make a real impact on the daily lives of people who rely on the roads, bridges and connections these teams help maintain.

Participants have the opportunity to earn and learn on the job while developing practical skills in their chosen field from civil construction and bridge maintenance to heavy diesel mechanics, business, finance and project management.

They walk away with a nationally recognised qualification while contributing to essential work that keeps communities safe and connected.

This year’s intake reflects the Minns Government’s focus on growing skilled jobs across regional NSW, with almost 90 per cent of new positions based outside Sydney. These entry‑level roles are helping build a strong pipeline of skilled workers ready to support the future transport needs of the state.

This investment is part of the Minns Labor Government’s record $3.4 billion in TAFE NSW and skills funding in the 2025-26 Budget which includes:

• $40.2 million over two years towards fee free apprenticeships and traineeships
• $13.8 million Construction Workforce Package
• $121 million to repair TAFE NSW campuses across the state
• $78 million to continue converting eligible teachers from casual to permanent roles.

Find out more about the Transport for NSW Apprentice and Trainee Program

Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison, said:

“We are getting more apprentices on the tools to repair and maintain NSW roads.

“These 71 new apprentices and trainees are proof that the Minns Labor Government is backing local jobs while strengthening the roads our communities rely on every day.

“From filling potholes and repairing flood damage to maintaining bridges and heavy vehicles, these recruits are making a real contribution from day one.

“With almost 90 per cent of roles based in regional NSW, we are building a strong pipeline of skilled workers who will keep our transport network safe, reliable and resilient into the future.”

Acting Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, David Harris, said:

“This program shows how the Minns Labor Government is working to deliver on its commitment to create an extra 1,000 apprenticeships and traineeships across NSW Government agencies to grow the skilled workforce our state needs.

“Through on the job training as apprentices and trainees, these recruits are earning while they learn and gaining skills that set them up for great, long-term careers.

“We are creating real pathways into meaningful work, particularly in regional communities, so local people can build their futures close to home.”

Member for Wallsend, Sonia Hornery, said:

“It is fantastic to see new apprentices and trainees starting their careers here in our region, including at the Waratah Depot.

“These young workers are gaining practical skills on live projects while helping maintain the roads and bridges our local community depends on.

“This investment strengthens our local workforce and ensures we have the capability to deliver the infrastructure our growing communities need.”

Deputy Secretary, Road Maintenance and Resilience, Transport for NSW, Matt Fuller said:

“This program gives people real skills, real experience and a recognised qualification—while boosting the capability of our workforce across NSW.

“As they build their skills on live sites, they’re helping lift the resilience of our transport network and supporting the teams who keep NSW moving.”

Maddi Ormsby, Bridge construction & Maintenance Apprentice said:

“The Bridge Construction and Maintenance apprenticeship really appealed to me because it meant I’d get to do hands on work outdoors.

“There’s such a great mix of bridges we look after—everything from concrete and timber structures to heritage ones. We don’t just maintain them; we get the chance to build them too, and we work across all sorts of locations.

“I’ve only been in the job a few weeks, and I’ve already had the opportunity to travel and work in Singleton, Muswellbrook, Dunmore and Dungog.”

Harrison Hudson, Operational Management Systems Trainee said:

“The traineeship was appealing since the location was much closer to home than my previous job, and it felt like a great opportunity to learn new things, give back to my community, and grow my career.

“I knew that once you get started at Transport, a traineeship can possibly open the door to future opportunities down the track.

“I’m really enjoying it so far. The people I have met at Transport are welcoming and friendly, which made it easy to settle in, and everyone has been so helpful and supportive.”

Blayney and surrounding communities are benefitting from new and enhanced aged care and hospital services, with the first stage of the Blayney Multipurpose Service commissioned recently and residents moved in.

Stage 1 includes a new residential aged care wing featuring single rooms with private bathrooms, additional inpatient beds and chair-based services with space for future expansion.

A comprehensive, coordinated relocation prior to opening ensured a smooth transition for staff and health services, as well as for aged-care residents who are enjoying more contemporary, comfortable and home-like rooms and facilities.

Aged-care residents and their families were invited to tour the new areas of the facility prior to moving in and the opening, following a Community Walkthrough which welcomed more than 100 people.

The next phase of the project will now focus on demolition of the existing buildings and construction of the facility’s new HealthOne, reception, entry, waiting room, staff area and ambulatory zone. Construction is expected to be complete in 2027.

The Blayney Multipurpose Service (MPS) redevelopment is being delivered in stages to ensure the community can continue to access the same level of clinical services, including those in the existing facility, without impact while construction is undertaken.

The Blayney MPS redevelopment is being delivered by Health Infrastructure and Western NSW Local Health District, in partnership with Taylor Construction Group.

For more information on the project, visit the Blayney Multipurpose Service Redevelopment website.

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park

“This is a significant milestone for this project and the community. It brings the people of Blayney and its surrounding areas closer to having the new and modern Multipurpose Service they need and deserve.

“The opening of the first stage of the redevelopment strengthens local health services significantly, and ensures residents can access care close to home in a modern, purpose-built facility.

“The Minns Government is delivering the health services regional communities need and deserve.”

Labor Spokesperson for Bathurst Stephen Lawrence

“It’s fantastic to see the first stage of the Blayney MPS redevelopment open for aged care residents and patients. This an exciting step and a proud moment for the health service and the whole community.

“The new areas of the MPS are impressive and will help the dedicated staff continue delivering the exceptional care they’re known for. I’m excited to see the project continue to progress, and to see the finished product when complete.”

Blayney Health Service Manager Kathleen Hillier

“It has been really exciting the see our aged care residents moving into their new rooms and enjoying a new level of comfort, we worked incredibly hard to make sure the new aged care wing felt far more like home.

“Staff, aged care residents and their families were all involved in the planning and design of this stage of work, which was important to make sure the new facility was tailored to their needs now and as years go on.

“Our community can expect to see plenty of activity on the next phase of works soon, but I know even this initial stage will make a huge difference to the experiences of not just our aged care residents, but also our staff, patients and families as well.”