Category: NSW News

Nominations for the 14 September local government elections open today and people across NSW are encouraged to put their hand up to represent their community on local council.

There are 128 councils in NSW each with between five and fifteen councillors serving as a voice for their community.

The decisions councils make have a direct impact on people’s everyday lives. The state’s councils manage $151 billion in infrastructure like pools, libraries and roads and every year spend $15 billion delivering local services.

No formal qualifications are needed to become a councillor, just a passion to work alongside fellow councillors to achieve great outcomes for the community.

If elected, councillors will receive training and guidance from the Office of Local Government.

The NSW Government is encouraging more diversity among candidates, including underrepresented groups such as women, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and people with disability.

Currently 39 per cent of councillors are women, 10.1 per cent are linguistically diverse, 3.9 per cent are Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander and 2.2 per cent identify as having a disability.

Candidate nominations are now open and will close at midday on Wednesday, 14 August.

Find out more information on becoming a councillor and how to nominate.

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said:

“Having been a Mayor for more than 30 years myself, I can confidently say that serving your community as a councillor is a great honour and a deeply rewarding role.

“I have always been a passionate believer in local government because I know what a wonderful difference effective councils with strong leadership can have on the community.

“The elections next month are an opportunity for renewal and for newly elected councils across the state to shape the future of their local area.

“We need diverse voices on council to reflect the diversity within our communities, so I encourage people of all backgrounds and ages to nominate as a candidate.

“Local government elections are an important part of democracy so I hope people will engage with the election process ahead of heading to the polls on 14 September.” 

The NSW Government has moved some of the state’s most vulnerable children out of unsuitable emergency accommodation, saving more than $125 million, after a report highlighted the confronting experiences of children and young people.

Today, the Advocate for Children and Young People (ACYP) released its final report on high-cost emergency arrangements (HCEAs), after a special inquiry commenced in September 2023.

HCEAs, which can include hotels and motels, are typically used when a young person is removed from their family and there is not a suitable placement available for them.

This can cost upwards of $2 million a year for each child; more than $38,000 a week. In comparison, a child in foster care costs a maximum of $74,000 per year.

An interim ACYP report, released in May, detailed that some children in HCEAs felt like they had been moved “from cage to cage”. In response, the NSW Government established an urgent review of the child protection system which is expected to be completed by October 2024.

A dedicated team, established to move children from HCEAs to more suitable arrangements, has achieved significant results – with the number of children in HCEAs dropping by 25% in eight months, from 506 in November 2023 to 381 on July 31.

Children can be restored to their families where safe, or matched with newly-recruited emergency foster carers.

Some of the children moved from HCEAs include Bailey* and Casey*, two Aboriginal siblings who have now been safely restored to their parents. Alex* spent over 900 days in an HCEA and is now living independently, with the support of a non-government organisation.

The final ACYP report details the heartbreaking experiences of 21 children and young people in emergency accommodation. It provides recommendations for action, which the Government accepts and has already commenced work to implement.

A copy of the report is available from: https://www.acyp.nsw.gov.au/special-inquiry

Minister for Families and Communities Kate Washington said:

“I have been working closely with the Advocate for Children and Young People to respond to this report, including meeting with some of the young people who shared their stories.

“The stories are stark and shocking and confirm what I have been saying for the last year: that the child protection system is broken and needs reform.

“Since last year, we have worked hard to get children out of these inappropriate arrangements – and the numbers have dropped significantly.

“We will continue our work to get the best outcomes for children in out-of-home care in NSW.”

*Names changed for privacy.

The Minns Labor Government is continuing work to support the wellbeing of the people of New South Wales, and destigmatise conversations about mental health, particularly for men, with the inaugural Men’s Mental Health Forum being held today.

The landmark Forum, hosted at New South Wales Parliament, will bring together mental health advocates, experts and those with a lived experience of mental illness, with the aim of raising awareness of men’s mental health, reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, and working towards lowering men’s suicide rates.

New South Wales accounts for the most male deaths by suicide in Australia. In 2023 alone, there were 934 suspected deaths by suicide in New South Wales, with men accounting for 78 per cent of these tragedies.

Lead by Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson and in partnership with with the Movember Institute of Men’s Health, the event will include high profile advocates for men’s mental health, Rugby League legend Greg Inglis and former Australian cricketer and MAFS star, Cam Merchant.

The event will be facilitated by Dr Zac Seidler, Movember Men’s Health Research.

The Forum will:

• facilitate constructive discussions on men’s mental health and suicide prevention,
• enable the sharing of knowledge, ideas, and strategies to address men’s suicide and mental health,
• help guide the direction of future suicide prevention initiatives targeting men, and
• encourage networking and collaboration between men’s mental health and suicide prevention stakeholders.

This event follows the announcement that the NSW Government is working to deliver landmark whole of government suicide prevention legislation within this term of Parliament, with the process of consultation with people with lived and living experiences of suicidal distress beginning in July.

If you, or someone you know, is in a life-threatening situation please seek help immediately by calling Triple Zero (000). For those contemplating suicide or experiencing severe distress, the following helplines are available 24/7:

Lifeline:  13 11 14
13 YARN:  13 92 76
Beyond Blue:1300 224 636
Suicide Call Back Service:1300 659 467

Additionally, the NSW Mental Health Line(1800 011 511) offers round-the-clock advice on accessing local specialist mental health services. The NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511 is a 24/7 service that can advise you on appropriate local specialist mental health services for you or a loved one.

Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson:

“Ensuring people who are experiencing mental health distress have access to services when they need them most is a priority for the NSW Government. Despite high levels of need for men, we know it can be especially difficult for them to ask for help when they need it.

“Today we are taking an important step along the journey to addressing male suicide and mental ill health and this groundbreaking event will help guide our work.

“It is vital that we continue to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and ensure that every man in NSW knows that help is available, and that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Together, we can make a meaningful difference and save lives.”

Professor Simon Rice, Global Director of the Movember Men’s Health Institute:

“Addressing men’s health is critically important because suicide remains the leading cause of death among Australian men aged 15-44 years, and the third leading cause of premature death among Australian men of any age.

“The Movember Institute of Men’s Health is dedicated to bridging the gap between the health sector and government, advocating for tailored support for men and ensuring that their needs are met. Contrary to the misconception that men are reluctant to seek help, our latest Real Face of Men’s Health Report reveals that many do seek care but often fall through the cracks.

“Over 50 per cent of Australian men who die by suicide each year had prior contact with a mental health provider, highlighting a significant gap in targeted support.

“Programs like Men in Mind are crucial—they offer a world-first approach to training therapists, equipping them with the skills to engage and respond to men’s unique needs effectively. By advancing these initiatives, we are working to ensure that men receive the comprehensive support they need, when they need it.”

Greg Inglis:

“As someone who has faced my own battles with mental health, I know firsthand the importance of having open, honest conversations about our struggles.

“This Forum is a crucial step in breaking down the barriers that prevent men from seeking the help they need.

“I hope from today we can change the narrative around men’s mental health and ensure that no one has to suffer in silence.”

Cameron Merchant:

“Mental health is a journey we all navigate, and it’s something I myself have had challenges with.

“It’s crucial that men feel empowered to speak up and seek help when needed.

“By coming together at this Forum today, it gives us another chance to open up another conversation and break the stigma, so people feel comfortable about talking about their struggles, their story and to be able to normalise the conversation about mental health. Ultimately working towards a future where nobody worries alone.”

The Minns Labor Government is continuing its work to prioritise the safety of drivers, passengers and pedestrians on our roads, with the state’s premier vehicle safety facility to quadruple in size.

Funded through the Community Road Safety Fund, $30 million has been invested by the NSW Government to significantly expand the Future Mobility Testing and Research Centre (FMTRC) in Cudal, paving the way for new highway speed and heavy vehicle testing.

This investment follows the purchase of 100 hectares of farmland adjacent to the existing site. Planned works will include the expansion and construction of a 4.4-kilometre loop track, as well as a new heavy vehicle skid pad.

This will support the team in increasing safety testing and research. This work involves enacting real-world scenarios at the centre to test vehicle safety features that help prevent crashes.

Since being established in 2019 the facility has delivered more than 85 test and research programs.

Transport for NSW will now begin planning and community consultation for the design of the new loop track, with construction set to commence in 2025.

The Mobility Testing and Research Centre is the only Government-owned and operated testing centre of its kind in the world and is foundational in ensuring all vehicles on NSW roads are road ready and safe.

Visit the Transport NSW website to find out more about the Future Mobility Testing and Research Centre and the Community Road Safety fund.

Minister for Roads John Graham said:

“The need for a new heavy vehicle testing space in the southern hemisphere was a key finding from extensive engagement with vehicle manufacturers, developers and researchers to map the future for the Cudal site.

“As light vehicles continue to become more advanced, there is also a need to uplift testing capabilities to keep up with new, increasingly automated, technology.

“The new Cudal track will let the team test new driver assist systems in real-world scenarios, including heavy laden B-doubles travelling at highway speeds, and situations involving head-on approaches and merging safety with cars, trucks and motorcycles.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“This expansion is an investment in regional NSW, and this cutting-edge facility attracts clients from across the globe, making NSW a leader in testing road safety aspects of autonomous vehicles that will save lives.

“Vehicle safety is a critical part of making our roads safer and independent modelling has shown that vehicle safety improvements have saved more than 700 lives over the past decade.

“The Cudal centre is a part of our transport history as a former airport, and it is a vital part of our transport future, testing the next generation of safety technology.

“As the only government-owned and operated testing centre of its kind in the world, the Future Mobility Testing and Research Centre is a pillar of integrity in the safety and testing landscape.

“As more advanced safety features on vehicles become available, it’s increasingly important that these are rigorously tested so we can get them into our cars and onto our roads faster.”

Independent Member for Orange Phil Donato said:

“I’m thrilled to welcome this substantial investment in the Future Mobility Testing and Research Centre. The expansion of this state-of-the-art facility will significantly enhance its capacity to test and improve vehicle safety.

“This investment is a crucial step in ensuring that our roads remain safe for all motorists, both now and in the future.”

Labor’s spokesperson for Orange Stephen Lawrence said:

“A commitment to this Cudal site is a commitment to Central West hospitality operators, local tradespeople who service this site, and families looking for local career paths for their children.

“Although country residents make up about a third of the NSW population, they sadly make up around two-thirds of deaths on NSW roads, so I’m pleased this regional Central West site is helping to play a key role in improving road safety for all communities.”

Transport for NSW’s Director Future Mobility Evan Walker said:

“Our vision for the Future Mobility Testing and Research Centre is that it continues to grow as a world-class vehicle testing site.

“We’re acting on feedback directly from manufacturers, developers, and industry about the kind of facility they need, and addressing a growing community and government need for confidence and assurance in vehicle safety as new technologies emerge.

“Our team ensures these systems do what they claim to and identifies the best emerging safety technology that we want to encourage more of on our roads to reduce the heavy cost of crashes on our community.”

The NSW Government through the Minister for Industrial Relations has today filed an application in the Industrial Court seeking orders for the appointment of an administrator for the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) NSW Branch, Construction and General Division.

The NSW Government through the Minister for Industrial Relations has today filed an application in the Industrial Court seeking orders for the appointment of an administrator for the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) NSW Branch, Construction and General Division.

To remove any doubt about the validity of the appointment and powers of the administrator, the NSW Government will this week introduce a bill to Parliament amend the Industrial Relations Act 1996 to provide for the appointment of an administrator for the CFMEU NSW Branch, Construction and General Division.

This is necessary action and consistent with the application made by the General Manager of the Fair Work Commission last week.

The CFMEU (NSW Branch) has dual registration under both the federal and NSW industrial relations systems, as a result legal and legislative action is needed both from the Commonwealth and NSW Government in each system to ensure the effective administration of the union.

The NSW Government has made absolutely clear that there is no tolerance for criminal or corrupt behaviour in the building industry, in unions or anywhere for that matter.

The appointment of an administrator will ensure swift changes to the organisation as well as the appropriate and efficient management of the CFMEU’s funds and assets in the interests of its members and the industry.

The commencement of proceedings and the introduction of the NSW Bill to Parliament will reflect steps being taken by the Australian Government.

This includes the commencement of proceedings by the General Manager of the Fair Work Commission to put the CFMEU into administration as well as the proposed introduction of a Bill to Federal Parliament.

The NSW Bill will ensure that the administrator will be authorised to administer the CFMEU Construction and General Division in NSW, perform the functions of State Secretary and exercise all the functions of the Divisional Council under the CFMEU rules.

The provisions in the Bill will also provide for the ability to suspend office holders without remuneration, during the administrator’s appointment.

Following the passage of the Bill, the NSW Government will work alongside the Australian Government to ensure the administration scheme aligns with steps being taken in relation to the CFMEU national branch.

The administrator appointment will be for a period of up to five years.

This follows a number of steps already taken by the NSW Government to protect the integrity of the construction sector and unions in NSW including:

• Moving to suspend the NSW CFMEU Construction and General Division’s affiliation to the NSW Labor Party, to stop any donations or affiliation fees, and to appoint an independent administrator to the branch.
• Asking the Commonwealth Government to review Enterprise Bargaining Agreements in NSW which the CFMEU is party to.
• Referring all allegations of inappropriate behaviour on NSW construction sites to the NSW Government’s Construction Compliance Unit.

Premier Chris Minns said:

“The NSW Government and NSW Labor have taken a series of strong actions to clean up the construction division of the CFMEU.

“We must take the necessary action to protect honest and hardworking construction workers and union members. It is necessary to protect the integrity of the construction sector and unions in NSW.

Industrial Relations Minister Sophie Cotsis said:

“There is absolutely no tolerance for criminal or corrupt behaviour in the construction industry or unions, or anywhere in our state.

“We will work together with the federal government to ensure we are setting the CFMEU on the right path to once again effectively represent those industries’ workers in our state.”

The Minns Labor Government is putting a spotlight on 12 of the state’s best food and drink manufacturers at this year’s Fine Food Australia 2024 tradeshow.

Twelve NSW businesses have each received $6,000 to help showcase their innovative products for buyers across the globe, export more and create new jobs and opportunities at home.

Each business with products ranging from spirits to artisan chocolates will be front and centre in the Flavours of NSW Zone of the tradeshow, which is major event for global buyers looking for new products to get into international markets.

The event attracts more than 26,000 visitors every year from more than 50 countries, including suppliers, distributors, retail and hospitality businesses, presenting a unique opportunity for food and drink manufacturers to meet new customers and buyers and expand their reach.

Riverina olive oil manufacturer Morella Grove will showcase its artisanal products at this year’s event.

Olive trees were first planted on the family farm in Griffith in the early 2000’s after drought conditions challenged their ability to farm traditional crops. The olives were harvested and pressed locally before being shared with local restaurants to kick start the Morella Grove journey.

Fine Food Australia 2024 will be held between 2-5 September at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The event alternates between Sydney and Melbourne each year.

NSW Government business support and trade experts will be on hand to help exhibitors in the ‘Flavours of NSW’ zone to showcase their products and facilitate connections with prospective buyers during the tradeshow.

For more information on the Flavours of NSW zone at Fine Food Australia 2024 go to investment.nsw.gov.au/focus-sectors/advanced-manufacturing/food-and-beverage-manufacturing/fine-food-australia-2024/

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong:

“The NSW Government is committed to building the capacity and the export capabilities of our food and beverage producers, which is why we support local businesses to exhibit at Fine Food Australia – the southern hemisphere’s leading trade event for the food and beverage industry.

“Our food and beverages are renowned around the world for being the highest quality. I heard this firsthand during my trade mission to Southeast Asia in July. There are enormous opportunities for manufactures to take the next step and pursue growth throughout Australia and internationally, and the Fine Food Australia trade show is a great opportunity to do exactly that.”

Morella Grove Co-owner Natasha Dal Bon:

“We’ve expanded a lot since the early days – our product range now includes caramelised vinegars, jams and sauces and are available at gourmet food shops across the country.

“However, there’s significant growth opportunities in international markets that we’d like to pursue, so we’re looking forward to connecting with buyers, distributors and investors using Fine Food Australia as a launch pad to grow our brand globally.”

The NSW businesses receiving subsidies to exhibit at Fine Food Australia 2024 are:

• The Apple Thief: Producer of alcoholic and non-alcoholic ciders, based in Batlow in the NSW Snowy Mountains.
• Australian Food and Pharmaceutical Industries: Manufacturer of innovative foods on the NSW South Coast, including Mast Chew – a plant based, organic and sugar-free chewing gum.
• Binjang Tea: A First Nations business that produces a range of bush teas incorporating native plants, based in Central West NSW.
• Byron Bay Spirits: This distillery in the heart of Byron Bay distils innovative small batch spirits using local ingredients with an Italian twist.
• Cocoa Nib Artisan Chocolates: Based in Newcastle, Cocoa Nib creates handcrafted chocolates, tarts and desserts. 
• Duro Pasta: Based on the South Coast, Duro Pasta is made from 100% Australian durum wheat and produced using sustainable farming practices.
• LORE Australia: A First Nations company based in Bellingen solving immunity and gut health with Native Probiotic Sodas, Guradji tea and Native Prebiotic Chocolates. 
• Morella Grove: Producers of Extra Virgin Olive Oil, vinegars, jams and gourmet sauces, based in the NSW Riverina.
• Nocktail: A Northern Beaches based producer of all natural non-alcoholic cocktail inspired drinks for the conscious consumer.
• Spicecraft: Ryde based family business specialising in gourmet Indian cooking kits to make restaurant quality meals at home.
• Unexpected Guest: A distillery and bar in Marrickville that produces various flavoured gins.
• Ziggy’s Wildfoods: Based in Bellingen, Ziggy’s Wildfoods utilises native ingredients to create fermented hot sauces, condiments and beverage mixers.

The Minns Government has today announced a new $2 million recreational fishing small infrastructure grants program, as well as the largest ever survey of NSW recreational fishing licence holders.

The grants program is part of the Government’s plan to ensure more of the licence fees collected from recreational fishers is invested back into the small infrastructure that makes fishing accessible, safe and convenient.

In addition, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) will undertake a state-wide survey of recreational fishers to enable them to provide direct feedback on potential future investment from the Recreational Fishing Trusts who hold the licence fee income.

The NSW Government will provide greater support to the recreational fishing community by:

• Making the grant applications processes clearer and simpler, so fishers and fishing clubs have the best opportunity to receive funding.
• Demonstrating through the Recreational Fishing Trust’s Annual Reports that the DPIRD and the Trust have reinvested license fees back into practical fishing initiatives.
• Strengthening communications with all fishers and clubs so that they know when and how to apply for grants to improve their local areas.

$2 million recreational fishing small infrastructure grants program

The new $2 million recreational fishing small infrastructure grant program will make it easier for fishing clubs, community groups and other organisations to apply for funding for projects such as fishing platforms, fish cleaning tables and other fishing facilities.

Eligibility criteria and funding guidelines for the new program will be developed over the coming months and will be included as part of the next Recreational Fishing Trust grants and funding round.

Applications for grants of up to $200,000 will be open soon.

Major survey of NSW recreational fishing licence holders

The Department survey will provide recreational fishers with greater input on the way fishing fees are spent while at the same time reinforcing the Government’s commitment to the transparent and accountable management of public funds.

The survey will seek input from fishers on new initiatives for potential future investment, including current programs:

• Fish stocking and fish breeding
• Fishing platforms and fish aggregation devices
• Artificial reefs and habitat improvements
• Education programs to teach young fishers about safe and responsible fishing.
• Fishing regulation awareness.

Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said:

“Fishing is a pastime everyone can enjoy.

“I want to revamp the process to make it easier for grass roots fishers and fishing clubs to be able to fund the infrastructure they would like to see in their local area.

“The fees that fishers pay each year must continue to be used effectively to improve fishing for everyone.

“The fishing infrastructure grant fund will ensure more money gets to grassroots recreational fishing groups.

“I understand that many of the small fishing groups and clubs might struggle to provide all the information needed to successfully get money from the Trust. I want to make it easier for grant applications to be successful.

“The survey is an important way for the Government to understand how recreational fishers would like to see licence fees spent.”

Local Labor Member for Bega, Dr Michael Holland said:

“I commend the Minister for Agriculture and the Minns Labor Government for their commitment to the recreational fishing sector.

“I look forward to the $2 million small fishing infrastructure grant program and the Government’s interest in our recreational fishing licence holders’ opinions on current programs and future investments.

“Recreational fishing is an important part of our local culture and attracts thousands of visitors to this beautiful electorate.

“It contributes significantly to the health and economy of the Bega electorate.”

The Minns Labor Government is tackling illegal dumping and litter head on by rolling out more than $4 million to help councils, businesses, community groups and public land managers protect our local environments.

$3.6 million has been awarded to 16 projects focusing on reducing litter in every part of our environment and in a variety of locations, from Sydney Airport and inner-city suburbs such as Marrickville, to regional cities such as Bathurst and Maitland.

Inner West Council is one of nine successful councils that has been awarded $400,000, taking a total of more than $1 million invested in litter prevention in and around the Cooks River since 2021.

The funding has helped Cooks River Alliance and Council to drive down litter in what was one of the most polluted waterways in Sydney. This work, together with state-wide litter prevention initiatives, has seen litter reduced in the river system by up to 60% since 2018-19.

More than $700,000 has also been awarded to 13 projects cracking down on illegal dumping through increased surveillance, infrastructure solutions, clean-ups, education, research, and collaboration.

The illegal dumping projects target two common dumping locations, with 47% of reported incidents occurring on the kerbside and another 41% in bushland.

Applications are now open for the next intake of litter prevention and illegal dumping grants. More information about the successful applicants and further funding opportunities is available here.

Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe:

“The Minns Labor Government has taken steps to deter this type of activity by doubling on-the-spot fines for general littering of small items and increasing maximum penalties for small-scale illegal dumping.

“Our reforms respond to community concerns and calls from local councils for stronger action and powers on illegal dumping. 

“By 2030, we want to reduce litter by 60%. These new projects will help to propel us forward by changing behaviours and delivering critical infrastructure to encourage better waste disposal.”

Patients at 15 Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) across NSW will benefit from improved dental services following a $1,705,000 funding boost.

ACCHOs are incorporated Aboriginal organisations initiated by and based in local Aboriginal communities. They deliver holistic and culturally appropriate health services to their communities.

The NSW Government remains committed to its partnership with the Aboriginal health sector and funds 25 ACCHOs to provide dental care for patients across the state.

These one-off grants will see selected metropolitan, regional and rural ACCHOs replace, update or purchase additional dental equipment such as an intra oral camera, prosthetist services dental chairs and x-ray machines.

The additional funding will ensure ACCHOs can tailor their services as needed, allowing them to both improve and increase their ability to provide holistic health care to the community now and into the future.

Find further information on public dental services.

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“Oral health can influence general health. A healthy mouth ensures people can eat, speak and socialise without discomfort and embarrassment.

“A targeted funding boost to allow ACCHOs to update or replace their equipment helps address disparities experienced in vulnerable population groups and will have a positive impact on the overall population’s health and wellbeing.

“The oral health teams working in ACCHOs are highly skilled dental practitioners, managers, and support staff and with this additional funding they’ll now have the latest equipment.”

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris:

“We’re committed to ensuring people can continue to have access to oral health services that are culturally responsive, safe and of high quality.

“This targeted funding ensures services meet the unique needs of the local Aboriginal communities they’re within.”

State-of the art sensor technology to be trialled in Sydney will scan trucks in real time and use connected warning signage to divert drivers of overheight vehicles from their routes before causing traffic headaches for motorists.

The trial is part of the NSW Government’s ongoing crusade to reduce disruption from overheight incidents that has seen tunnel closure minutes in the Sydney Harbour Tunnel cut by 80 per cent.

The automatic system will give drivers an accurate real-time height reading on their vehicle, giving heavy vehicle drivers time to change their route to avoid dangerous tunnel incidents that can cause system wide disruptions to Sydney’s road network and damage to critical infrastructure.

In an Australian first, Transport for NSW has combined the Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) scanning technology with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) software.

The six-month trial will see trucks taller than four meters scanned as they pass under the sensor, and their height and number plate information will be gathered and instantaneously displayed to drivers on the overhead Variable Message Sign (VMS).

The first site is now live on the southbound lanes of the M1 Pacific Motorway at the Mount White Heavy Vehicle Safety Station which is operated by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR). 

The Minns Government has introduced a zero-tolerance approach to overheight trucks, including six-month registration bans for offending trucks, sending the message to truck owners and trucking companies that it is their responsibility to manage, along with drivers.

This crackdown in combination with the work of the industry wide Overheight Truck Taskforce, launched in June 2023, resulted in a dramatic drop in over height incidents in Sydney tunnels. In the first six months of the taskforce’s operation (July to December 2023) there was a 67 per cent decrease in total closure time minutes and a 32 per cent reduction in incidents, the lowest level in seven years.  Over the same period, the Sydney Harbour Tunnel, the most disrupted route, saw an 80 per cent reduction in closure minutes and a 58 per cent reduction in incidents.

The reduction in incidents has continued across the network in 2024, with 26 recorded overheight incidents between January and June, 62 per cent fewer than the same period in 2023.

For more information on the driving safely through Sydney’s tunnels, click here.

The Overheight Truck Taskforce Report can be found here.

Minister for Roads, John Graham said:

“This Australian-first scanning technology takes the guesswork out of load heights with real-time accurate calculations that allow drivers to act immediately and head off overheight incidents.

“The NSW Government remains resolute in its commitment to stopping overheight trucks from shutting down our city and inconveniencing motorists. This new technology on trial will help us strengthen the approach even further.

“I want to thank the vast majority of truckies who always know their height and their route. This technology is an awareness, not enforcement tool, it arms drivers with the right information so they can make the right decisions on the road.

“This trial came out of the work of the Overheight Truck Taskforce that brought together the trucking industry, Transport for NSW, the NSW Police and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator. I want to thank the taskforce for its work which has delivered results beyond expectation.”

Transport for NSW Executive Director Customer Journey Management, Craig Moran said:

“Responding to overheight incidents comes at a huge resource and productivity cost – not to mention resulting delays and damage. Following the conclusion of the taskforce’s successful approach, Transport is taking the learnings forward to ensure our road network is safe, efficient and reliable.

“This project involved Transport Commanders on the ground, network experts in the Transport Management Centre (TMC), our journey planners, safety and heavy vehicle experts, compliance teams, and technical and engineering teams behind the LiDAR technology working together on innovative solutions.

“This saves time for motorists and money for NSW, with repair costs down and closure minutes more than halved.

“We will continue to work with industry to provide the right information, at the right time, to safely plan and manage journeys and prevent disruption.

“We’re starting at Mount White but aim to eventually roll out this new technology to all key heavy vehicle routes entering Sydney. We’ll evaluate the results of the trial in six months’ time.”

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) Chief Executive Officer, Sal Petroccitto OAM said:

“The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator supports the investment by NSW Government into the use of new technologies like LiDAR scanning and ANPR software to help industry and ultimately drive greater safety and productivity outcomes.

“This system not only enhances road safety but also underscores our commitment to fostering innovation within the heavy vehicle industry.

“We are proud to continue our collaboration with Transport for NSW to reduce overheight incidents and ensure safer road transport for all.”