admin – Page 1356

New Men’s Health portfolio to drive prevention and early intervention

The NSW Liberals and Nationals have established a dedicated Men’s Health portfolio, reinforcing the Opposition’s commitment to improving health outcomes for men and boys across NSW.

Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane today announced the appointment of Member for Davidson Matt Cross as Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Men’s Health, tasking him with developing a men’s health strategy for NSW.

Ms Sloane said improving the health of men and boys is a clear priority for the NSW Liberals and Nationals and one that demands renewed focus and leadership.

“We owe it to the four million boys and men in NSW to do better,” Ms Sloane said.

“We should not accept the status quo where men continue to die around four years younger than women from largely preventable causes, or where suicide remains the leading cause of death for men aged 15 to 44.”

“I want NSW to have the best health outcomes for men and boys in Australia, and that means a clear strategy, modern policies and practical support for men at every stage of life.”

Ms Sloane said a future Liberal and Nationals Government would develop a men’s health strategy, building on existing frameworks but ensuring they are fit for purpose in 2026 and beyond.

“This will include a stronger focus on prevention and early detection, better engagement with primary care, improved health information tailored to men, and practical support for fathers and families,” Ms Sloane said.

“The framework developed in 2018 was an important first step, but eight years on it is clear more needs to be done.”

Mr Cross said his appointment was deeply personal and reinforced by his own experience as a cancer survivor and new father.

“Too often men delay seeking help, whether it is for their physical health or their mental health,” Mr Cross said.

“I know first hand how critical prevention and early detection can be. My experience surviving bowel cancer reinforced the importance of men feeling comfortable talking openly about their health.”

“The birth of my son has given me a new perspective on why this work matters. We need to make it easier for men to look after themselves, not harder.”

Mr Cross said the Liberals and Nationals approach would be practical, evidence based and focused on measurable improvements in outcomes.

“This is about saving lives, supporting families and ensuring men and boys across New South Wales have the opportunity to live longer, healthier lives,” Mr Cross said.

International Holocaust Remembrance Day

On International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we pause to reflect on an act of inhumanity so vast and horrific, it is almost beyond reckoning. Yet reckon with it we must.

As we give thanks for all who survived, we hold on to the memory of the victims. We hold on to all those names, all those faces, all those stories. And, even with the passing of so much time, we are haunted by the terrible truth that they add up to six million.

That most infamous of numbers falls across the decades like a shadow. It holds within it the immense multitudes of Jewish lives and futures stolen with a pitiless cruelty that remains scarcely fathomable in its evil.

Consider all that the Nazis and their allies and enablers robbed from the world. All the energy and inspiration. All the talent and potential. All the dreams and aspirations. All the love. Entire family lines ended, communities torn apart. Lives upended, uprooted and changed forever.

In the coldness of its calculation and the vicious discipline of its execution, the Holocaust was a ruthless campaign of extermination targeting a people simply because of who they were.

Yet the Jewish people still stand, proud and resilient, bolstered by the great foundations of identity, tradition, community and faith.

More than eight decades since the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, we repeat the vow: Never again.

We repeat it because Jewish people should never have had to know such pain again. Yet, as we have been so horrifically reminded by the 7th of October atrocity carried out by Hamas and last month’s terrorist attack at Bondi Beach, the darkness that underwrote the Holocaust is a darkness that still dwells in too many hearts.

The Australian Jewish community found hope and safety in our country after the Holocaust. The Jewish community is part of our Australian story, and to the even greater future that is within our reach.

Just as we embraced Jewish refugees fleeing the Holocaust, we wrap our arms around the Jewish community now.

The safety, freedom and hope that Australia represented to the Jewish community is something we must all commit to protect.

Australia stands against antisemitism because it stands in opposition to all we are as a country, the nation we have built together over generations with care and compassion.

On this most solemn day of remembrance, we join you in our shared humanity. And together we tend the flame of memory, ensuring its glow will live on in the hearts of future generations.

PARKWAY AVENUE CYCLING AND SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS READY FOR NEW SCHOOL YEAR

City of Newcastle is adding the finishing touches to a $2.1 million project which is improving
safety for all road users at two key intersections in Hamilton South.

Upgrades to the roundabouts at Smith and National Park Streets along with new on-road cycle
lanes have created a safer, more comfortable journey for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.

Features of the project include the realignment of kerbs, the addition of six speed bumps, new
shared path crossings and off-road cyclist bypasses, which will make it easier for people of all
ages and abilities to move around the area safely and confidently.

The project has been delivered by City of Newcastle, utilising $469,000 from the Australian
Government Black Spots Program, which is administered by Transport for NSW.

City of Newcastle’s Executive Manager of Transport and Regulation Ryan Tranter said Parkway
Avenue is an important connecting route for schools, sportsgrounds, shopping centres and
beaches.

“These changes have been designed to cater for everyone who travels through the area,” Mr
Tranter said.

“We’ve made it safer for all users by slowing traffic on approach to the roundabouts, providing
off-road cyclist bypasses at each roundabout, as well as designated on-road cycle lanes with a
clear buffer to parked vehicles.

“This will help to address the conditions which have led to eight crashes in the past five years at
these two roundabouts, with the majority involving cyclists.

“We’ve worked closely with Newcastle High to ensure the project aligns with the school’s
transport management plans and supports NSW Schools Infrastructure’s current campus
development project, ensuring the new connections support the expected increase of students.

“The two raised shared path crossings on Parkway Avenue in front of the school will also improve
pedestrian safety and we made sure to retain the heritage character of Parkway Avenue and its
beautiful tree-lined median.

“Our engagement period in 2024 showed the community overwhelming supported the safety and
cycling improvements this project is delivering.”

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon said the completion of the Parkway Avenue
project is a real win for our community.

“These improvements make it safer and easier for people of all ages to walk, ride and connect
with their neighbourhood,” Ms Claydon said.

“Good cycling infrastructure saves lives. By providing options to separate bikes from traffic and
improving visibility, we’re making our streets safer for cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers alike.

“This project, backed by a $469,000 investment from the Albanese Labor Government, is about
giving people genuine transport choices.

“Whether you’re riding to school, commuting to work, or out for exercise, this cycleway delivers
safer connections and a healthier, more liveable Newcastle.”

In addition to the black spot funding which addressed the roundabout safety improvements and
the two shared-path crossings, City of Newcastle has funded additional upgrades including the
eight shared-path cyclist roundabout bypasses and the two on-road cycle lanes.

The project aligns with City of Newcastle’s ‘On Our Bikes’ Cycling Plan (2021-2030) and will
support future cycleway connections to the Harbour Foreshore, creating a more connected,
accessible city.

Newcastle Cycleways Movement president Nev Jones said the project design offers choices for
cyclists.

“The shared paths and crossings are there for less confident riders, while experienced cyclists
can continue through the roundabout on-road by claiming the lane,” Mr Jones said.

“The changes to Parkway Avenue near Newcastle High School are expected to slow vehicle
speeds at the roundabouts, improving safety for pedestrians and people of all ages riding bikes.
“The changes are a positive step toward a safer school precinct.”

City of Newcastle will complete the final stage of the project by early February including line
marking, signage and landscaping.

SINGLETON BYPASS on track TO OPEN IN 2026!

The Singleton Bypass is on track to open to traffic later this year, with construction teams back from the break and hard at work, delivering an extraordinary project for the Hunter.

The project is being delivered with a $560 million investment from the Albanese Labor Government and a $140 million investment from the Minns Labor Government.

This region-changing project will take 15,000 vehicles a day off Singleton’s main street, improving travel times, freight efficiency and safety for local and interstate motorists, allowing them to avoid five sets of traffic lights.

The eight kilometre bypass starts near Newington Lane in the south and rejoins the highway just past Magpie Street in the North. The project features a full interchange at Putty Road and connections to the New England Highway at the Southern and Northern ends and at Gowrie.

A host of major milestones were achieved in 2025, with crews opening two bridges which allowed trucks to shift material within the project corridor, without going through the CBD, helping to reduce the impact of construction traffic.

Construction of all six bridges is now nearing completion, including the largest on the Hunter Floodplain, which is 1.6km long.

The bridge construction has involved the installation of 435 girders and 207 bridge piles and pouring of 161 concrete columns and 78 concrete bridge decks. Only the finishing works remain, including the installation of safety rails, deck joints, placement of asphalt, noise walls and safety screens.

Road pavement construction has recently commenced across the corridor.

To date, a total of 500,000m³ of earthwork material has been placed across the project alignment, equivalent to 200 Olympic sized swimming pools of material.

Construction activities continuing in early 2026 include:
drainage and earth works
continued pavement construction including asphalting and line marking
the relocation and connection of water, electrical and sewer services
the construction of interchanges, and
the start of landscaping.

The bypass is expected to be open to traffic in late 2026, weather permitting.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

The 1,300 workers on this project are making some incredible progress, and I know Hunter motorists, and anyone regularly passing through Singleton, can’t wait to enjoy smoother, safer and more reliable journeys when the bypass opens later this year.

It’s one of the many projects across NSW being delivered by the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments together that will be a real game-changer for the community.”

NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison:

I am delighted to be able to say for the first time that Singleton Bypass will be open to traffic this year!

The bypass is going to make a massive difference for road users across the Hunter.

We are ensuring mums and dads spend less time in traffic and more time with their family.

We are cutting five sets of traffic lights, and ensuring Singleton locals can reclaim their CBD – with 15,000 fewer vehicles passing through it each day.

This is a win-win outcome for Singleton residents, visitors and freight operators.”

Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi:

The bypass will ease congestion and improve safety for the more than 25,000 vehicles that use this section of the New England Highway every day.

The town is already enjoying a taste of the benefits the Singleton Bypass will bring, with project haulage trucks using two new bridges enabling them to avoid CBD streets.

The completion of this project will absolutely transform the town centre, improving amenity and safety for Singleton while delivering enhanced journey reliability and travel time for vehicles using the New England Highway.”

BRUNNERS BRIDGE OPENS IN THE UPPER HUNTER

The Minns and Albanese Labor governments, in partnership with Singleton Council, have today cut the ribbon on a major upgrade to Brunners Bridge at Mitchells Flat – strengthening freight access, and improving safety in the Upper Hunter.

The $7.2 million upgrade replaces an ageing bridge with a modern, heavy-duty crossing designed to carry larger freight vehicles and better connect local communities.

The project was jointly funded, with $6.5 million from the NSW Government and $700,000 from the Australian Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.

For communities in the Upper Hunter, Brunners Bridge is a vital everyday connection – linking Singleton, Elderslie and Gresford and providing access to the Hunter Regional Livestock Exchange. The Bridge also supports families, connecting them to work, schools and local services.

With a heavier load limit of 68.5 tonnes, the upgraded bridge improves reliability, supports local industry and keeps the region connected when it matters most.

The upgrade involved full demolition of the old structure and construction of a new bridge, culvert and approaches. Wider lanes and an improved road surface allow heavier vehicles to cross safely, reducing pressure on surrounding local roads and improving safety for all road users.

This upgrade follows the recent completion of Kilfoyles Bridge in Singleton, a critical project delivered under the jointly funded Australian and NSW Governments Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements in response to the 2022 NSW floods. The project has improved road safety, strengthened connectivity and boosted flood resilience for residents, visitors and freight operators across the Upper Hunter.

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain MP:

Projects like these are critical to ensuring regional infrastructure can safely accommodate modern freight and vehicles.

Replacing the previous bridge, which dates back around 80 years, will help keep communities safely and reliably connected.”

Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison MP:

The completion of this project is great news for locals, visitors and businesses in the Upper Hunter.

Brunners Bridge isn’t just concrete and steel, it’s a daily link for families, farmers and freight in the Upper Hunter.

In Regional NSW, roads are not a convenience. They are the lifeblood that connects people to work, school and services, and keeps freight and agriculture moving. That’s why upgrading local bridges like this matters so much.

The Minns Labor Government is backing regions like the Upper Hunter with tangible investments – building stronger connections and supporting regional economies.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Hunter, Dan Repacholi MP:

This is a great example of all levels of government working together to deliver a great outcome for the Upper Hunter.

This important local project will boost road safety and connectivity for residents, visitors and freight vehicles.

The local communities, freight and agribusiness industry, transport and the wider economy will all benefit from this significant investment.”

Quotes attributable to Singleton Mayor, Cr Sue Moore:

Brunners Bridge has been a longstanding priority in Council’s Infrastructure Advocacy Agenda, and its reopening marks a proud milestone for Singleton. It’s a vital route designed to meet the needs of modern freight and agricultural vehicles.

Gresford Road, where Brunners Bridge crosses Glendon Brook, is an essential freight corridor for the region’s agricultural producers, linking them to the Hunter Regional Livestock Exchange and beyond.

The replacement of this bridge means larger trucks carrying heavier freight loads can now cross safely and efficiently. Increasing the bridge’s load capacity not only improves safety and reliability but also supports the growth of local agribusiness and helps reduce heavy vehicle traffic in surrounding areas.

This project has been years in the making, and I want to sincerely thank the local community for their patience throughout the construction period, especially during the extended road closure.

It’s a testament to the power of collaboration across all levels of government, and an excellent example of infrastructure investment that delivers long-term benefits for the Singleton community.”

Appointment of Australia’s Ambassador to the United States of America

The Federal Opposition welcomes the appointment of Greg Moriarty AO to take on the role of Australia’s Ambassador to the United States.

The Liberal Party has always stood for a strong alliance with the United States and Mr Moriarty has a proven track record of advancing Australia’s national interest under both Labor and Liberal governments. He has served Australia in a distinguished career spanning diplomatic appointments and key roles in Australia’s defence and intelligence communities.

In this period of global uncertainty a strong alliance with the United States of America is more important than ever. Mr Moriarty is a safe pair of hands to advance Australia’s interest, build this relationship and ensure AUKUS reaches its full potential.

Reminder – School zones back in force from Tuesday 27 January 2026

School zones across most of NSW will be back in force from tomorrow, Tuesday 27 January 2026, as teachers and students begin returning for the new school year.

School zones across most of NSW will be back in force (PDF, 180.68 KB) from tomorrow, Tuesday 27 January 2026, as teachers and students begin returning for the new school year.

While the first few days of the term are traditionally school development days for teachers, children may also be returning and that will continue to increase throughout the week.

Some schools return earlier than others, particularly non-government schools, so to avoid any confusion for motorists and to keep the returning children safe, 40km/h school zone speed limits will be in place from Tuesday.

There are many locations where multiple schools are close to each other and some of those schools will have different return dates. To keep everyone safe slow down around every school, obey the 40km/h speed limit, and keep your eye out for vulnerable kids embarking on an exciting new year of education.

School zones generally apply from 8 to 9.30am and from 2.30 to 4pm on weekdays and motorists who don’t obey the rules face heavy fines and demerits.

For more information on school zones, please visit https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/roadsafety/community/schools/school-zones

Fatal motor cycle crash – Singleton

A motor cycle rider has died after a crash in the state’s Hunter region.

About 10.35am today (Monday 26 January 2026), emergency services responded to reports of a crash between a motorcycle and a Toyota Hilux along Putty Road, Howes Valley, approximately 50km south-west of Singleton.

The rider – a 21-year-old man – died prior to the arrival of emergency services.

The 48-year-old male driver of the Hilux was uninjured and was taken to Singleton Hospital for mandatory testing.

Officers from Hunter Valley Police District have established a coronial scene and commenced an investigation into the incident where a report will be prepared for the information of the coroner.

Putty Road between Putty and Milbrodale is currently closed and is expected to remain a coronial scene for a considerable amount of time.

Motorists are urged to avoid the area.

Man charged over allegedly inciting hatred during protest – Sydney

A man has been charged following a protest in Sydney’s inner east today.

About 2.50pm (Monday 26 January 2026), police stopped a 31-year-old man on Bourke Street, Surry Hills, following allegedly inciteful comments he made during a speech at a protest in Moore Park.

The man was taken to Surry Hills Police Station.

He was charged with publicly incite hatred on ground of race causing fear.

The 31-year-old man was refused bail to face Bail Division Court 7 tomorrow (Tuesday 27 January 2026).

Maitland to welcome 25 new citizens on Australia Day

Member for Maitland, Jenny Aitchison, will today welcome 25 new citizens to the local community as part of Maitland’s Australia Day commemorations. They join thousands of people across the country who will become Australian citizens today.

The ceremony, being held at Maitland’s iconic Town Hall, will mark an important milestone for new Australians who have chosen Maitland as their home, celebrating inclusion, respect and a shared responsibility for the future of the community.

Australia Day citizenship ceremonies bring together people from all over the world, alongside those fortunate enough to have been born in Australia, to reflect on the values that underpin the nation and the contribution each person makes to their local community.

Member for Maitland, Jenny Aitchison said:

One of the most enjoyable and humbling parts of my role as the local Member is being part of our citizenship ceremonies.”

Today we stand together with people from all corners of the world who have chosen to make Australia, and Maitland, their home.”

Australia has often been called the Lucky Country, but what truly makes us lucky is the people who live here and the way we look out for one another.”

Becoming an Australian citizen is a proud milestone for individuals and their families, and it strengthens our whole community.”

Our newest citizens bring with them skills, experiences and stories that enrich Maitland and help shape our shared future.”

Maitland is a community that shows up for each other in good times and challenging times.”

That spirit of care, resilience and contribution is what defines us, and it is what our newest citizens are now part of.”