Greens Push Government to Deliver the ACT’s Active Travel Network

The ACT Greens will use this week in Parliament to drive action from the ACT Government to deliver their active travel network, focusing on West Belconnen where paths are either missing entirely or incomplete and unsafe.

ACT Greens Deputy Leader Jo Clay said the party has been hearing from people all over Canberra who want to travel by riding, walking and taking public transport, but are facing too many incomplete pathways, missing connections and dangerous conditions.

On Wednesday Ms Clay will call on the ACT Labor Government to consult with the community and conduct a feasibility study into how they will deliver the West Belconnen Active Travel Network and review how they’ll deliver the territory-wide plan.

“People want choice, but the way our city is currently designed we don’t have that. The ACT Government knows this which is why they have an Active Travel Plan­—so now we have all these routes planned, but no clarity on how it will be delivered by 2030.

“Canberra is better with bikes. We need wide connected footpaths—not paint lines next to the road—that everyone can use. When done well, paths like this deliver traffic calming measures to make our streets safer for everyone.

“A good path and public transport network keeps people physically and mentally healthier. It makes it easy to walk down to the shops, ride to school or work and spend time outdoors. It also reduces noise and air pollution.

“Weeks ago, the Labor Climate Minister said the ACT will not meet its legislated emissions reduction target and that we’re off track to achieve net zero by 2045. Transport continues to be the ACT’s biggest polluter, making up over 60% of our emissions.

“It’s a no brainer that delivering the paths, connections and infrastructure people need to ride or walk around will reduce our overall emissions. But right now we don’t have that option in West Belconnen for people to ride into work, school or down to the shops.

“West Belconnen is rapidly growing, and ­our pathways and active travel connections were already poor. We need better public infrastructure in this part of Canberra.

“That’s why the ACT Government must work with the community to identify the priorities in this plan—given Labor’s budget blowout—how they will do it, and when.”

The motion will also call on the ACT Government to transparently record how much funding has been allocated to deliver the Active Travel Plan 2024-30 and how much has been spent per financial year in annual reports.

Canberra By Bike Founder, Paris Lord:

“We’re pleased to support this latest effort to get people in Belconnen the infrastructure that enables more choices in how people get around their neighbourhoods.

“Locals tell us they want to be able to walk or roll to their local shops for groceries or medical appointments, or feel safe to let their children ride with their friends.

“Fusing missing links and calming our streets makes such trips more likely, and boosts our collective quality of life.” 

Media statement – Lambton Park War Memorial Swimming Centre dive tower

Following a resolution of the elected Council in December 2024, City of Newcastle has been reviewing the use and operation of the dive tower at Lambton Park War Memorial Swimming Centre.

The dive tower was constructed as part of the original facility, which officially opened to the public in January 1963.

It includes 5m, 7.5m and 10m platforms and is located alongside the 1m and 3m springboards, which are all serviced by a 5m-deep pool.

General public access to the dive tower was restricted seven years ago due to safety concerns. The facilities are currently only able to be accessed by accredited diving organisations. 

There are 12 aquatic centres (including Lambton) with heritage dive towers in Australia. However the Lambton tower is one of only two heritage towers (those built before 2000) still in use, with the other remaining facility, at Canberra Olympic Pool. The heritage dive tower at Canberra Olympic Pool is scheduled for permanent closure as part of an upcoming redevelopment project.

Contemporary diving facilities around Australia built since 2000 are also predominantly restricted for use by trained and qualified professionals associated with accredited diving clubs, with public use highly limited.

As part of the review of the dive tower requested by Council, City of Newcastle sought guidance from SafeWork NSW due to the age of the asset and challenges in meeting current safety standards. Following two inspections in November, SafeWork has issued improvement notices that have identified the risks of falls and slips on the tower, 3m springboards and one of the 1m springboards.

The dive tower, 3m boards and southeastern 1m board have been temporarily closed in order to review the SafeWork improvement notices which includes engaging a qualified expert to conduct a risk-based assessment, determine appropriate control measures and associated costs. 

City of Newcastle will consult with stakeholders during the review period in line with SafeWork’s direction including the Dive Club and its approximate 70 members.

Sandhills Wetlands reopened as part of almost $26 million Byron Bay flood resilience project

The restoration of a major wetland in the heart of Byron Bay is part of a $26 million project to reduce the impact of flooding in the tourist destination, as well as keeping pollution away from its celebrated beaches.

In a dramatic transformation, three large retention ponds are the new centrepiece of the 5.5ha Sandhills Wetlands, attracting native birds, animals, residents and tourists alike.

The reopening of the wetlands today (Monday 1 December) celebrates the return of a habitat which had been destroyed by sand mining in the 1960s.

A network of paths connects the site to the town centre, Jarjumirr skatepark and up to Walgun Cape Byron Lighthouse, encouraging nature-based recreation for people of all ages and abilities.

The project is stage one of the overall $26 million Byron Bay Drainage Strategy, which is receiving $11.8m through the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program (NRRRP).

The NRRRP is a $150 million program delivering 36 flood mitigation and resilience projects across seven local government areas (LGAs) impacted by the 2022 floods, funded by the Albanese Government and administered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA).

Byron Shire Council, who are delivering the wetlands and drainage improvement works, also received $6 million from NSW Government Infrastructure Betterment Fund Grant and $3 million from the NSW Government Open Spaces Legacy Grant towards the Sandhills Wetlands project.

The Arakwal Corporation, Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council and NSW Crown Lands also provided guidance in co-designing the project.

The Sandhills Wetlands is one part of the overall drainage project, aimed at reducing the impacts and frequency of flooding in Byron Bay. The new wetlands will collect and hold stormwater runoff from surrounding hills, before it’s slowly released towards Belongil Creek.

Work also has started on increasing the capacity of connecting stormwater pipes underneath the CBD, with stormwater concrete culverts, almost double the size of the existing pipes, being installed. Underneath the railway corridor, the largest culverts will be almost seven metres wide to help reduce the current flash-flooding risk to CBD businesses.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain:

“The reopening of the Sandhills Wetlands is a great example of the Albanese and Minns Governments working together to deliver long-term practical flood mitigation infrastructure for communities across Byron Bay.

“By restoring this vital wetland and upgrading the town’s drainage system, we are helping safeguard local homes, businesses and iconic natural assets from the increasing impacts of severe weather.

“This project demonstrates what genuine partnership with local government and Traditional Owners can achieve, creating a more resilient Byron Bay while enhancing public spaces that locals and visitors can enjoy for generations.”

Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot:

“As your local MP, I’m proud to have delivered $11.8 million in federal funding towards the Byron Bay Drainage Strategy, which includes restoring these beautiful wetlands in the heart of Byron Bay.

“The restoration of the Sandhills Wetlands will have a positive impact on the local environment and wildlife, reduce the impact of flooding on the Byron Bay town centre and improve water quality at Clarkes Beach.

“The improvements also mean locals will also be able to enjoy this space for years to come.”

NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully:

“Restoring the Sandhills Wetlands has helped preserve cultural heritage, bolster resilience and deliver more community space for everyone to enjoy.

“It is a practical demonstration of how we can adapt to deliver both flood mitigation and environmental benefits.

“This is a great result for the local community and visitors which will encourage more people to get out and about and enjoy nature.”

NSW Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper:

“The Minns Labor Government is focused on building stronger communities, and the Sandhills wetlands restoration project will deliver lasting benefits for Byron Bay.

“It’s fantastic to see Crown land transformed into a new emergency services precinct for NSW Police and Fire and Rescue NSW, new community and recreation space, better roads, and real protection against flooding and pollution for one of our state’s most iconic beaches.

“The Sandhills site is a powerful symbol of renewal, bringing together environmental restoration, cultural respect, and community resilience to show what’s possible when we work together for a better future.”

NSW Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin:

“This wetland stands as a powerful example of what we can achieve when we listen, respect and work together.

“Guided by Aboriginal co-design and supported by all three levels of government, we’ve restored a vital ecosystem, created a place for visitors and locals to enjoy, and strengthened our protection against future flooding.

“This is a project that brings our community closer to Country and prepares us for a more resilient future.”

Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye:

“This is an exciting project for Council because it is one of the most significant environmental restoration projects to happen in Byron Bay in recent years.

“Already people are telling me there are more wallabies on and around the site and I am really excited to see the birdlife flourish in this amazing community place which, in the last 18 months, has been completely transformed.

“One of the main objectives of this project was to improve water quality especially around Clarkes Beach and this will have long-lasting benefits for the nearby Cape Byron Marine Park and all the fish, turtles and other marine life.”

Minister leads over 50 NSW businesses on major trade mission to China

NSW Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong will travel to China today, leading a delegation of over 50 NSW businesses and senior NSW government representatives to the 30th NSW–Guangdong Joint Economic Meeting (JEM) in Guangzhou.

The JEM is the cornerstone of NSW’s 46-year sister-state relationship with Guangdong, China’s largest provincial economy, and an important biennial opportunity to meet with senior Guangdong Government representatives to exchange views on bilateral cooperation, including trade.

As part of the mission, the Minister will travel alongside NSW Governor Margaret Beazley and Speaker of the NSW Legislative Assembly Greg Piper to meet with government and industry leaders, attend site visits, engage with NSW businesses and potential investors in Guangzhou, Shanghai and Hong Kong. These engagements will strengthen relationships and create new opportunities for NSW businesses.

The Minister’s mission will include a visit to one of Guangzhou’s leading public hospitals to meet with patients who have received cochlear implants. This follows the 2023 JEM, held in Sydney, which led to a nation-first agreement for NSW-based, global medtech company Cochlear, to supply medical devices across Guangdong’s Greater Bay Area hospitals.

The delegation will also include two recent winners at the NSW Export Awards – NSW Exporter of the Year Southern Star Research and NSW Regional Exporter of the Year Flavourtech.

This mission is an important opportunity to deliver on the objectives of the NSW Trade and Investment Strategy, which sets a bold vision to grow exports by $100 billion, attract $25 billion in investment, and create 30,000 new jobs by 2035.

This mission follows the Australian Government’s patient and calibrated approach to stabilising the bilateral relationship with China, including visits from the Prime Minister, the Hon Anthony Albanese earlier this year, and Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator the Hon Don Farrell, as recently as early November.

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“This mission is about putting the NSW Trade and Investment Strategy into action.

“The NSW–Guangdong Joint Economic Meeting plays a crucial role in our economic engagement, and this year’s 30th meeting is a significant mark of our commitment.

“NSW is a trading state and China is a major trading partner.

“The record number of businesses travelling with me to JEM means our world class offerings in decarbonisation, health and life sciences and food and beverage manufacturing will be on show and ready to grow in the China market.”

NSW Exporter of the Year 2025, Southern Star Research Director and Founder David Lloyd said:

“Being part of this delegation is a tremendous opportunity. The Joint Economic Meeting gives us direct access to government and industry leaders in China, helping us showcase our capabilities and explore new partnerships.

“Strengthening these connections is vital for opening new markets, driving investment, and ensuring NSW businesses remain competitive in a rapidly changing global economy.”

NSW Regional Exporter of the Year 2025, Flavourtech CEO and Chairman Leon Skaliotis said:

“Attending the last Joint Economic Meeting was a turning point for our business — it opened doors we simply couldn’t have accessed otherwise.

“Going back again this year gives us the chance to build on those relationships, showcase how far we’ve come, and explore new opportunities in China’s dynamic market. For us, the JEM isn’t just about trade discussions, it’s about real connections that help our business grow and thrive.”

Cancer survival in NSW at an all-time high

Cancer survival rates in NSW are at an all-time high, with 73 per cent of people surviving at least 5 years after a cancer diagnosis, up from 71 per cent according to a new report from the Cancer Institute NSW.

The Cancer in NSW Report 2025 highlights the state’s collaborative, world-leading efforts to reduce cancer’s burden and how advancements in immunotherapy, genomics and diagnostics, as well as digital health and artificial intelligence are transforming the way we prevent, detect and treat cancer.

The report shows cancer incidence rates are stabilising and mortality rates are decreasing, with bowel and lung cancers having the greatest decrease in mortality rates over the past ten years.

The report also outlines key efforts underway to reduce inequitable cancer outcomes, with Aboriginal people twice as likely to die from cancer than non-Aboriginal people, and people with the lowest-socioeconomic status 50 per cent more likely to die from cancer than people with a high socioeconomic status.

Initiatives to boost access to cancer clinical trials, including targeted grants for priority populations, are increasing participation. Nearly 3,300 people enrolled in a cancer clinical trial in 2024–25, up from 2,571 the previous year. The number of unique clinical trials also grew from 795 to 858.

Other key initiatives highlighted in the report helping to improve cancer outcomes include:

  • $21 million to support research in prevention and early detection, diagnosis, treatment and living well with and beyond cancer
  • 15 behaviour change campaigns on anti-vaping and anti-tobacco, breast, bowel and cervical screening and skin cancer prevention
  • The introduction of machine reading technology to support radiologists to interpret mammography images, as well as breast density reporting across BreastScreen NSW.

Now in its sixth iteration, the NSW Cancer Plan 2022-2027 is helping guide the state’s cancer control efforts. As the state’s dedicated cancer control agency, the Cancer Institute NSW is working together with more than 80 organisations across government, non-government and community to reduce cancer’s impact and save more lives.

The NSW Government invests around $180 million each year, through the Cancer Institute NSW, to improve cancer outcomes and lessen its impact for people across the state. 

Key insights from the report:

  • The 5-year cancer survival rate is 73% (for 2017-21, up from 71% in the previous five year period)
  • 55,719 people in NSW are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2025
  • 16,241 people in NSW are expected to die from cancer in 2025
  • 1 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85
  • People living in regional and rural NSW have an 11% increased risk of receiving a cancer diagnosis, and an almost 20% increased risk of death from cancer than their city counterparts
  • Aboriginal people are 1.4 times more likely to be diagnosed with cancer and 2 times more likely to die from the disease than non-Aboriginal people
  • The most socioeconomically disadvantaged people in NSW are 1.5 times more likely to die from cancer than the least socioeconomically disadvantaged
  • The 5 most common cancers expected to be diagnosed by the end of 2025 are prostate, breast, melanoma of the skin, bowel and lung cancer
  • The 5 most common causes of cancer death by the end of 2025 are expected to be lung, bowel, pancreatic, prostate and breast cancer
  • Overall incidence rates of cancer in people under 50 years-old has risen slightly, with the incidence rate 6% higher in 2023 than in 2014
  • 269 children aged 0-14 years are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2025
  • 392 adolescents and young adults (15-24 years) are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2025.

Health Minister Ryan Park:

“Cancer is a disease that doesn’t discriminate and has the power to change lives in an instant. While our state’s survival rates rank among the best in the world, collectively cancers remain the leading cause of premature disease related death.

“Our growing and ageing population means the demands on cancer care will continue to rise, so it’s absolutely critical our efforts continue to rise and meet this.

“There’s still a lot more to do, but we’re deeply committed to improving cancer outcomes and addressing the unique needs of our diverse communities, I’m proud to see this highlighted in the report.”

NSW Chief Cancer Officer and Chief Executive Cancer Institute NSW, Professor Tracey O’Brien AM:

“While NSW is recognised as a global leader in cancer outcomes, very few people are untouched by this devastating disease, and we must continue with our efforts to collectively tackle cancer and its profound burden on our community.

“At the heart of this report are the unique perspectives and experiences of people living with and beyond cancer and the world-leading teams of experts and community leaders working together to change the future of cancer.”

Sandhills Wetlands reopened as part of almost $26 million Byron Bay flood resilience project

The restoration of a major wetland in the heart of Byron Bay is part of a $26 million project to reduce the impact of flooding in the tourist destination, as well as keeping pollution away from its celebrated beaches.

In a dramatic transformation, three large retention ponds are the new centrepiece of the 5.5ha Sandhills Wetlands, attracting native birds, animals, residents and tourists alike.

The reopening of the wetlands today (Monday 1 December) celebrates the return of a habitat which had been destroyed by sand mining in the 1960s.

A network of paths connects the site to the town centre, Jarjumirr skatepark and up to Walgun Cape Byron Lighthouse, encouraging nature-based recreation for people of all ages and abilities.

The project is stage one of the overall $26 million Byron Bay Drainage Strategy, which is receiving $11.8m through the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program (NRRRP).

The NRRRP is a $150 million program delivering 36 flood mitigation and resilience projects across seven local government areas (LGAs) impacted by the 2022 floods, funded by the Albanese Government and administered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA).

Byron Shire Council, who are delivering the wetlands and drainage improvement works, also received $6 million from NSW Government Infrastructure Betterment Fund Grant and $3 million from the NSW Government Open Spaces Legacy Grant towards the Sandhills Wetlands project.

The Arakwal Corporation, Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council and NSW Crown Lands also provided guidance in co-designing the project.

The Sandhills Wetlands is one part of the overall drainage project, aimed at reducing the impacts and frequency of flooding in Byron Bay. The new wetlands will collect and hold stormwater runoff from surrounding hills, before it’s slowly released towards Belongil Creek.

Work also has started on increasing the capacity of connecting stormwater pipes underneath the CBD, with stormwater concrete culverts, almost double the size of the existing pipes, being installed. Underneath the railway corridor, the largest culverts will be almost seven metres wide to help reduce the current flash-flooding risk to CBD businesses.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain:

“The reopening of the Sandhills Wetlands is a great example of the Albanese and Minns Governments working together to deliver long-term practical flood mitigation infrastructure for communities across Byron Bay.

“By restoring this vital wetland and upgrading the town’s drainage system, we are helping safeguard local homes, businesses and iconic natural assets from the increasing impacts of severe weather.

“This project demonstrates what genuine partnership with local government and Traditional Owners can achieve, creating a more resilient Byron Bay while enhancing public spaces that locals and visitors can enjoy for generations.”

Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot:

“As your local MP, I’m proud to have delivered $11.8 million in federal funding towards the Byron Bay Drainage Strategy, which includes restoring these beautiful wetlands in the heart of Byron Bay.

“The restoration of the Sandhills Wetlands will have a positive impact on the local environment and wildlife, reduce the impact of flooding on the Byron Bay town centre and improve water quality at Clarkes Beach.

“The improvements also mean locals will also be able to enjoy this space for years to come.”

NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully:

“Restoring the Sandhills Wetlands has helped preserve cultural heritage, bolster resilience and deliver more community space for everyone to enjoy.

“It is a practical demonstration of how we can adapt to deliver both flood mitigation and environmental benefits.

“This is a great result for the local community and visitors which will encourage more people to get out and about and enjoy nature.”

NSW Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper:

“The Minns Labor Government is focused on building stronger communities, and the Sandhills wetlands restoration project will deliver lasting benefits for Byron Bay.

“It’s fantastic to see Crown land transformed into a new emergency services precinct for NSW Police and Fire and Rescue NSW, new community and recreation space, better roads, and real protection against flooding and pollution for one of our state’s most iconic beaches.

“The Sandhills site is a powerful symbol of renewal, bringing together environmental restoration, cultural respect, and community resilience to show what’s possible when we work together for a better future.”

NSW Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin:

“This wetland stands as a powerful example of what we can achieve when we listen, respect and work together.

“Guided by Aboriginal co-design and supported by all three levels of government, we’ve restored a vital ecosystem, created a place for visitors and locals to enjoy, and strengthened our protection against future flooding.

“This is a project that brings our community closer to Country and prepares us for a more resilient future.”

Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye:

“This is an exciting project for Council because it is one of the most significant environmental restoration projects to happen in Byron Bay in recent years.

“Already people are telling me there are more wallabies on and around the site and I am really excited to see the birdlife flourish in this amazing community place which, in the last 18 months, has been completely transformed.

“One of the main objectives of this project was to improve water quality especially around Clarkes Beach and this will have long-lasting benefits for the nearby Cape Byron Marine Park and all the fish, turtles and other marine life.”

Appeal for information following suspicious fires – Hunter Valley

Police are appealing for the public’s assistance following a number of suspicious fires in the state’s north yesterday.

About 12.20pm yesterday (Sunday 30 November 2025), emergency services were called to the corner of Frame Drive and Gingers Lane, Sawyers Gully, following reports of a grass fire.

A short time later, at about 12.30pm, emergency services were called John Renshaw Drive, Buchanan, following reports of two more grass fires.

NSW Rural Fire Service crews attended and extinguished both blazes.

About three hours later, at 3.40pm, emergency services were called to a fire on a grass verge on John Renshaw Drive, Black Hill, and further emergency services responded to another fire on a grass verge of Averys Lane, Buchanan.

Both these fires were again extinguished.

No reports of injuries were received and there were no reports of damage to vehicles or property.

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District were called established crime scenes at all locations, commencing inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incidents.

As part of inquiries, police are appealing for information on a white Mazda SUV last seen in Kurri Kurri about 3.30pm yesterday (Sunday 30 November 2025).

Anyone else with CCTV or dash cam footage of the Sawyers Gully, Buchanan, and Kurri Kurri areas between 12pm and 4pm yesterday (Sunday 30 November 2025) is urged to contact Hunter Valley Police District or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Submissions now open for 2026 Australian Defence Export Catalogue

Australian defence industry companies are invited to showcase their products and services to international governments via the 2026 Australian Defence Export Catalogue. 

Submissions to the Catalogue are now open – with participation raising the profile of Australian defence industry to key decision makers in international markets.

The Australian Defence Export Catalogue supports Australia’s sovereign defence industrial base – a key priority outlined in the 2024 Defence Industry Development Strategy and National Defence Strategy.

Currently in its ninth edition, the Catalogue highlights export-ready products and services from more than 336 companies across every state and territory in Australia; and is available in hard copy, online and via the mobile app.

Submissions for the 2026 edition of the Australian Defence Export Catalogue can be lodged via the online web portal until 23:59 AEDT, 16 January 2026. All proposed exports of military and dual use goods will be assessed under Australian export controls legislation.

Information on eligibility criteria and the submission process can be found by visiting the Australian Defence Export Catalogue page on the Defence website.

Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Pat Conroy MP:

“Exports are a key priority in the Albanese Government’s Defence Industry Development Strategy.

“Exporting Australia’s leading defence technology to international markets supports Australian jobs and strengthens our sovereign defence industrial base. 

“The Australian Defence Export Catalogue helps to grow Australia’s defence industry by supporting the long-term viability of domestic production lines through access to new markets.

“The Government is committed to strengthening Australia’s defence industrial base so it can meet the strategic challenges our nation faces now and in the future.”

Appointment of Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Consul-General

Today I announce the appointments of nine highly qualified individuals to lead Australia’s posts in Tallinn, Lima, Noumea, Alofi, Kathmandu, Buenos Aries, Honiara, Nicosia and our interests in the global health system.

I am pleased to confirm the following appointments:

Australia’s diplomatic network enables us to promote our interests in peace, security, trade, investment and other areas of cooperation.

As we work to shape a future for the better, our diplomatic corps are fundamental to strengthening relationships and building resilience in an ever less stable world.

I thank the outgoing Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Consul-General for their important contributions to Australian diplomacy.

Greens secure Senate inquiry into work from home

The Greens have secured a Senate inquiry into the right to work from home.

The Committee inquiry will consider the Greens bill to give workers the right to work from home for up to 2 days per week, hear from a range of stakeholders, and gather information to ensure that Australia’s workplace rules reflect our modern times.

The Senate inquiry will report by 26th March 2026.

Greens spokesperson for workplace relations, jobs and employment Senator Barbara Pocock:

“Flexible working arrangements are an essential feature of our modern workplaces. That’s why we’ve secured a Senate inquiry. 

“We know there is widespread support from workers, their families and from unions who back flexible work arrangements. Two-thirds of Australians support the right to work from home, including 75 per cent of Labor voters and 51 per cent of Coalition voters.

“The ability to work from home has many benefits, not only for women and carers – it also reduces the time spent on commuting, improves work-life balance, increases mental and physical wellbeing, and boosts workforce participation and productivity. 

“The state Labor government in Victoria backs the right to work from home. Given that most workers in Australia are covered by federal workplace law, it makes practical sense to ensure this right at the national level. We need a sensible, national approach.

“While the Greens recognise that working from home is not possible in all roles, workers should have a reasonable right to work from home for up to a couple of days a week where it is practical and possible.

“The Greens want to see real improvements in the conditions and rights of Australian workers that reflect the modern workplaces of 2025 and beyond. We will always fight for workers’ rights. We remain ready to work with Labor to deliver outcomes that help improve peoples’ lives.”