Pest and biosecurity roadshow to better equip south east NSW landholders

The Minns Labor Government is taking biosecurity and pest animal management support on the road, delivering a series of workshops across the state’s south east through the Feral Pig and Pest Program 2025-26.

Between February and May, landholders can attend one of eight drop-in sessions throughout the Queanbeyan-Palerang region to speak with Local Land Services biosecurity and veterinary staff about feral pig control options, baiting techniques, livestock health, seasonal conditions and more.

Eligible landholders can also access subsidised grain to assist with baiting programs.

The workshops are a key part in equipping landholders with the skills and knowledge to manage pest animals on their properties, keeping livestock disease-free and getting the most out of their land.

The pest and biosecurity roadshow is part of the NSW Government’s more than $40 million investment over the past three years in initiatives aimed at supporting landholders to control feral pig and pest animal populations.

The roadshow will stop at:

  • Carwoola – Friday 20 February, 3pm – 6pm, Carwoola Community Hall
  • Mongarlowe / Charleys Forest – Tuesday 3 March, 9:30am – 1pm, Mongarlowe Community Hall
  • Krawarree – Friday 20 March, 9am – 12pm, Gundillion Hall
  • Burra – Thursday 26 March, 3pm – 6pm, Burra Community Hall
  • Majors Creek– Tuesday 14 April, 1pm – 4pm, Majors Creek Recreation Hall
  • Bungendore – Thursday 23 April, 10am – 1pm, Bungendore Scout Hall
  • Royalla – Tuesday 28 April, 3pm – 6pm, Royalla Common
  • Nerriga – Friday 15 May, 3pm – 6pm, Nerriga Hall

The drop-in format allows landholders to choose a time that suits them to discuss management options tailored to their property.

Bookings are recommended. Register online.

For more information, landholders can contact their nearest Local Land Services office on 1300 795 299.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“The NSW Government is committed to addressing biosecurity threats posed by pest animals such as feral pigs as part of the Government’s more than $billion biosecurity budget.

“The South East Local Land Services pest and biosecurity roadshow is a practical and convenient way we’re providing landholders with practical advice and support on managing feral pigs on their properties.

“These sessions can help landholders develop a holistic understanding of how to manage pest animals, from baiting techniques to how seasonal conditions impact populations.”

Over $13 million invested to ease education costs for social housing students

Applications are open for the NSW Government’s Youth Development Scholarship program, offering 1500 high school and tertiary students living in social housing $1000 grants to help cover their education expenses.  

Now in its tenth year, the program reflects the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to supporting the academic and career aspirations of young people living across public, community or Aboriginal housing.  

Since 2017, the Youth Development Scholarship program has invested more than $13 million to support over 5,700 students, easing the costs associated with education and helping young people to thrive in school, complete their studies and move confidently into the workforce.  

The grants are available to high school students in years 10 to 12, students at TAFE NSW or university, as well as those completing an apprenticeship or traineeship. 

This year, 1,500 scholarships are on offer and will be awarded to 1,000 new students and 500 returning students.  

To be eligible, applicants must be either:

  • Receiving a private rental subsidy from the Department of Communities and Justice.
  • Living in community housing/Aboriginal community housing 
  • Living in housing provided by a Local Aboriginal Land Council 
  • Living in supported, crisis or temporary accommodation 
  • Living in statutory, supported, or voluntary out-of-home care.  

The $1000 grants can be used to fund study-related expenses such as laptops, textbooks, and internet access.  

The Minns Labor Government is building a fairer New South Wales where young people from all backgrounds have access to education and the resources they need to succeed. 

Applications for high school students will close at 5pm on Friday, 13 February 2026. 

Applications for tertiary students will close at 5pm on Friday, 6 March 2026.  

More information on how to apply can be found at: https://dcjnsw.info/scholarships  

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said:

“With the cost of living continuing to bite, back-to-school expenses are placing real pressure on family budgets across NSW, especially for families in social housing. 

“No young person should have to choose between buying a textbook and putting food on the table, or between the tools they need for an apprenticeship and paying the rent. 

“A $1,000 scholarship can be the difference between falling behind and getting ahead, helping students pay for textbooks, laptops, internet access and other essentials they need to succeed at school, TAFE or university. 

“This program is about fairness and opportunity, making sure young people in social housing have the support they need to stay engaged in education, reach their potential and build a better future.” 

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said: 

“We already know that over the next ten years, around 92% of our jobs will require post-school training or study. Thanks to this program, 1,500 young people across the state will have the extra support they need to continue their education or apprenticeship, giving students a leg up while boosting a critical workforce for NSW.  

“For students learning at TAFE NSW or our universities, the cost of study can be a real barrier. These scholarships help cover essentials like laptops and equipment so young people can focus on building practical skills that lead directly to jobs. 

“TAFE NSW is a powerful pathway into secure work, and we want more young people to be able to access it. This support helps students stay enrolled, complete their training and take the next step into the workforce.” 

Youth Development Scholarship recipient, Caitlyn Laws said:

“Growing up in a single-parent household in a low socioeconomic area presented ongoing financial and social challenges that could have limited my educational opportunities.  

“The Homes Youth Development Scholarship provided essential academic, financial, and mentoring support throughout High School and my Bachelor of Nursing, enabling me to remain focused, engaged, and resilient in my studies.  

“This support played a pivotal role in my academic success and in fostering my commitment to pursuing higher education and professional achievement.” 

New compliance unit strengthens NSW biosecurity systems

A new dedicated Biosecurity Compliance and Investigation Unit has been set up by the Minns Labor Government to strengthen biosecurity, tackle high-risk threats, and safeguard market access and trade.

The new unit, in the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Compliance Branch, will employ six full-time staff to focus on biosecurity issues threatening the State’s $25 billion primary industries sector.   

With more than 340 weed species and 40 pest animal species costing NSW at least $1.9 billion annually, the specialised unit will support and strengthen the work of all agencies responsible for biosecurity compliance and enforcement across the state.

The creation of the unit was a key recommendation of the Natural Resources Commission Invasive Species Management review and supports recommendations by the former Independent Biosecurity Commissioner.

The unit will

  • respond to biosecurity risks and support on-ground surveillance activities across the state and at state borders for threats such as red imported fire ant and cattle tick.
  • work with other agencies including Local Land Services and Local Control Authorities to expand compliance and enforcement capabilities for pest and weed management, including feral pigs and deer.
  • undertake compliance operations to support the National eID program critical to maintaining access to the state’s domestic and international livestock markets.  

The dedicated Biosecurity Compliance and Investigation Unit follows the government’s release of the NSW Biosecurity Action Plan 2025-2026, which outlined six focus areas to improve the biosecurity framework in NSW.

This new unit will help deliver key commitments in the action plan, including the delivery of a new regulatory policy for biosecurity compliance in NSW, and regulatory guidance to ensure landholders, industry and community understand their biosecurity responsibilities.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, said: 

“This is about strengthening our biosecurity response and protecting our multi-billion-dollar primary industries export and international markets.

“This sends a clear message, if you breach biosecurity protocols and laws then there will be a price to pay.

“With this new specialised team, the NSW Government is taking strong action to protect our state from invasive species and other major biosecurity threats.

“We are strengthening our compliance and enforcement providing the resources needed to keep NSW safe and secure. Biosecurity is critical, and this team will ensure we stay ahead of the risks facing our communities, industries and environment.”

Minns Labor Government walks back promise to deliver extra beds at Blacktown Hospital in 2026

The Minns Labor Government has walked back its promise to deliver 30 additional beds at Blacktown Hospital in 2026.
 
Reading from a pre-prepared answer in Question Time yesterday, Health Minister Ryan Park revealed the new beds would now be delivered at the back end of this year “…or early next year.”
 
A Minns Labor Government media release dated 21 January 2026 said the additional beds at Blacktown Hospital were being fast tracked and would be delivered in 2026.
 
In the space of just 21 days the Minns Labor Government has walked back this promise.
 
Shadow Minister for Health, Sarah Mitchell, said the Premier needs to be honest with Western Sydney communities about when these extra beds will be delivered.
 
“The latest BHI data confirms what Western Sydney residents already knew – that they are being left behind when it comes to health services,” Mrs Mitchell said.
 
“After three years in government, Chris Minns has delivered none of the 600 additional hospital beds he promised for Western Sydney.”
 
Shadow Minister for Western Sydney Monica Tudehope said this is yet another reason why an urgent inquiry into the provision of health services in the Western Sydney Local Health District is needed
 
“Whether it is patients waiting for days in EDs, giving birth on couches, or being forced to sleep on the floor, an inquiry will help find answers and come up with solutions for the systemic issues Western Sydney hospitals are experiencing,” Ms Tudehope said.

Call for Stronger Action Against Laos for Failing Bianca and Holly

The Prime Minister should immediately summon the Laotian Ambassador for a formal explanation following revelations that those responsible for the deaths of Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles by ethanol poisoning have only received fines of just AUD$185. 

Australians are rightly shocked. Four other tourists, two Danish women, a US tourist and a British woman, also died in this mass poisoning event.

A year ago we learned the Laos Government was refusing Australian Federal Police assistance in the investigation. A year ago Australians were told by the Albanese Government that the matter was in hand. At the time the Leader made the point on Channel 7’s Sunrise.

We now know there has been no meaningful justice for Holly and Bianca, and their families did not learn of these outcomes from their own government but via the British woman’s family.

Australia makes a significant contribution to Laos through our foreign aid program and other development assistance. 

The Albanese Government should  remind the Laotian Government of the important contributions Australian taxpayers make to key programs in Laos in-line with the friendship between our two countries. 

It is in that same spirit of friendship and cooperation that Australians rightly have an expectation of proper justice and accountability for the deaths of two young Australians.

The Albanese Government must also explain the clear failures of consular support and diplomacy in this instance, and why the families of Holly and Bianca were not kept properly informed of these developments.

Holly and Bianca deserve justice, their families deserve answers and Australia should be using every diplomatic lever at its disposal to secure both.

Newcastle Art Gallery set to make its mark with opening weekend celebrations

Three art lovers are being given the chance to walk away with a permanent reminder of Newcastle Art Gallery’s nationally significant collection as part of the opening weekend celebrations. 

But they won’t have to worry about finding the perfect space to hang their prize, with the work of art instead being a bespoke tattoo inspired by the Iconic Loved Unexpected exhibition. 

Hunter musicians Kinder will be among the live performance highlights at the Friday night street party, which kicks off Newcastle Art Gallery's opening weekend celebrations.Fresh from supporting Katy Perry on a national tour, Hunter musicians Kinder will be among the live performance highlights at the Friday night street party, which kicks off Newcastle Art Gallery’s opening weekend celebrations. Picture credit: Billy Zammit

The winners will be inked during the Friday night street party by Newcastle artist and tattooer Eddy Lou, as part of a packed opening weekend program of art, music and interactive experiences.  

Director Lauretta Morton OAM said while the tattoos were a quirky way to celebrate the milestone, every visit to Newcastle Art Gallery was designed to leave a lasting impression. 

“Our collection offers an extraordinary time capsule of art from around the world, incorporating significant First Nations artists, colonial era Australian icons, internationally important Japanese Sodeisha ceramics, contemporary pieces and so much more,” Ms Morton said.

“Throughout our seasonal exhibitions we will also be providing visitors with a chance to experience ambitious programs that are locally grounded, nationally engaged and globally minded.   

“The expansion project is about more than just increasing the exhibition space; it’s about reimagining the Gallery to redefine what we offer as a destination. 

“Regardless of why people come to the Gallery, we want to ensure they leave different as a result of the experience, with memories to cherish and a desire to return again and again.” 

The opening weekend will be a celebration of all the Gallery has to offer, incorporating artists from the collection and successful creatives from across the region to become cultural ambassadors for the Gallery. 

Laman Street will be closed to traffic and transformed into a street party from 5pm to 9pm on Friday 27 February. 

Explore the temporary sculpture park featuring works by Braddon Snape and Dani Marti, as well as a disco-inspired garden created by Jen Denzin and David Lobb, which will evolve throughout the weekend thanks to interactive art-making activities perfect for the whole family. 

A live music stage will feature a diverse line-up, including performances by Newcastle artist James Drinkwater and his surf rock band The Pitts, Maitland siblings Kinder, who are fresh from supporting Katy Perry on her Australian tour, and headliner DJ, songwriter and producer Jayteehazard. 

Live performances will also be taking place inside the Gallery, including the CREATION choir led by multidisciplinary collection artists Deborah Kelly, Newcastle-based Torres Strait Islander artist Toby Cedar and his dance group, and artist Tina Havelock Stevens, who will combine movement and music in a one-of-a-kind drumming solo.  

Art-lovers keen to win the flash tattoo experience on the night will need to head along to the Gallery on Fridays, Saturday or Sundays in the lead up to the opening weekend to put their name in the barrel. 

The celebrations will continue on Saturday 28 February with the official opening of the Iconic Loved Unexpected exhibition, displayed over both levels of the gallery, bringing together icons, favourites and unexpected gems from the Gallery’s $145 million collection. 

A series of in-person talks will be held on the Saturday featuring collection artists including internationally acclaimed Quandamooka artist Megan Cope, whose striking work Kinyingarra Guwinyanba (Off Country) features 44 poles adorned with bouquets of rock oyster shells suspended within the new central atrium.  

Another of the Gallery’s iconic suspended works of art, The sea sun of 5 bells by Newcastle’s own John Olsen, will also be the subject of an ‘in conversation’ program with internationally respected Gallerist Tim Olsen, and Art Gallery Director Lauretta Morton who will discuss Olsen’s most significant paintings. 

A visit to the Gallery won’t be complete without a trip to the retail shop, which champions local makers and creators, and the Gallery’s first permanent café, which will be open ready for the weekend celebrations. 

Named Hilliers in honour of the Oliver Hillier Drapery Store previously on the Gallery site, it will be operated by Jacque and Tom Brown, founders of Sprout Catering in Newcastle, who will infuse their longstanding commitment to seasonal food, sustainability and community into the cafe. 

“We’re incredibly proud to bring Hilliers to life inside the Newcastle Art Gallery. Being part of such an important cultural institution is a privilege, and we see the café as a place where people can continue their experience of art through food, conversation and connection,” Jacque Brown said. 

“The name pays tribute to the original Hilliers store that once stood on the corner of Darby and Laman Streets, a place woven into Newcastle’s early social fabric. Our vision is to honour that history while creating a warm, contemporary space for visitors to pause, connect and enjoy locally crafted food and coffee. 

“We want Hilliers to feel like an extension of the gallery – creative, welcoming and distinctly Newcastle.” 

Visit https://newcastleartgallery.nsw.gov.au/ for more details on the Newcastle Art Gallery expansion project and full reopening program.

New Lambton landslip

City of Newcastle expresses its disappointment following confirmation the NSW Government will not provide rate relief to the residents displaced by the 2025 New Lambton landslip.

The elected Council resolved in September to seek an ‘act of grace’ payment from the NSW Government that would cover the annual council rates for the 16 property owners located within the danger zone for a 12-month period from 1 July last year.

A letter has since been received from NSW Recovery Minister Janelle Saffin rejecting the financial support requested on behalf of the residents.

City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath said the decision to withhold the funds was in stark contrast to the $40 million rates relief provided to victims of the natural disaster that hit the Northern Rivers in 2022.

“It’s disappointing that the NSW Government continues to ignore the residents of New Lambton who have been displaced from their homes since the landslip occurred in May last year,” Mr Bath said.

“The NSW Government has rightfully been very generous in its support of residents living on the mid and far north coast who were also impact by the same natural disaster in May last year. For reasons unknown, not one dollar has been provided to those in Newcastle.”

City of Newcastle is proceeding with its own process to grant financial assistance to the residents via a donation equal to the rates they have paid on their properties for the 2025/26 financial year.

This is in line with the restrictions of the Local Government Act, which prevent councils from waiving the rates and charges levied on a property. The process will cost City of Newcastle’s ratepayers $45,600.

Ward 3 Councillors Siobhan Isherwood, Peta Winney-Baartz and Mark Brooker urged the NSW Government to help support the affected residents.

“The Reconstruction Authority was set up to help communities recover from natural disasters. Our residents need help while they navigate the uncertainty and disruption and the financial challenges that they’ve been dealing with since May 2025,” Cr Isherwood said.

“Newcastle Council is doing all they can to support residents, but they don’t have the resources that are needed. 

“It is well past time for the State Government to step in and help manage the load. The Reconstruction Authority must be directed to provide the same support to New Lambton residents that residents in other parts of the state have access to.”

“I look forward to continuing to advocate for the impacted families to ensure their needs are met and also to continue working alongside the NSW Government to support City of Newcastle in our endeavour to secure support and funding,” Cr Winney-Baartz said.

“This is not an opportunity for political point scoring it’s up to us all to work together to achieve tangible supports for these families.”

“It’s disappointing that the State Government has declined to offer financial assistance to the 16 displaced households of New Lambton,” Cr Brooker said.

“Through rates relief for the current year City of Newcastle has done all that it can to ease the financial burden being felt by these residents.”

A milestone in the recovery effort has occurred with the geotechnical report into the landslip currently with the NSW Public Works and Transport for NSW for peer review. 

City of Newcastle is liaising with the agencies in preparation for the report, which is expected to be received in late February and will be followed by further advocacy to the NSW Reconstruction Authority and elected representatives for support through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Aboriginal artists invited to help celebrate Newcastle’s cultural identity

City of Newcastle is seeking expressions of interest from Aboriginal artists to develop public art that reflects local stories and contributes to the city’s identity as an arts and cultural destination.

Projects on Union Street, Wickham and Market Street in the East End have been identified as two key opportunities to share cultural knowledge. 

Public art elements have been included in recent public domain projects in Newcastle, such as the South Newcastle Beach Bathers Way work by local artist Ellie Hannon.Public art elements have been included in recent public domain projects in Newcastle, such as the South Newcastle Beach Bathers Way work by local artist Ellie Hannon. Image credit: Lee Illfield.

Art will be incorporated into City of Newcastle’s planned public domain upgrades for these locations and may take the form of murals, sculptures, design features in footpaths, street furniture or walking trails.

Councillor Deahnna Richardson, proud Wiradjuri woman and co-chairperson of City of Newcastle’s Guraki Standing Committee, said public art provides opportunities to share stories, cultural knowledge and foster relationships between First Nations and non-Aboriginal communities.  

“These cultural landmarks are significant to the Awabakal and Worimi peoples, and to the broader community. There is a deep sense of belonging and connection to place, which has been shaped by the ancestors over thousands of years,” Cr Richardson said. 

“Learning about the rich history of these sites and the ongoing relationship that Aboriginal peoples have with the land encourages us all to respect and appreciate the places that we live, work and play on, and facilitates that dialogue that is necessary for reconciliation. 

“By incorporating cultural knowledge into public art at these sites we hope to bring people together and continue to deliver positive outcomes for Aboriginal peoples and the broader community.”

The chosen artists will collaborate with a core group of representatives from local Aboriginal communities to ensure public artworks are meaningful, reflective and honour the heritage and stories of local Aboriginal peoples. 

The process has been guided by best practice recommendations from the National Association of Visual Arts and the Connecting with Country Framework.

It has also been endorsed by City of Newcastle’s Guraki Aboriginal Standing Committee and Public Art Standing Committee.

Newcastle Art Gallery Director Lauretta Morton OAM said the EOI was open to both early career artists and those experienced in developing large-scale public art, with preference given to local artists, or those who have a strong connection to Newcastle and the identified site locations.

“It’s an exciting opportunity for young and emerging artists to develop their skills and experience, with the potential for mentoring and professional development,” Ms Morton said.

“It’s all about making the process inclusive and ensuring fairness, transparency and equal opportunity.

“There will be a range of minor, medium and major artwork projects developed across these sites, providing several artists the opportunity to have their art on display in the public domain.”

Following the expressions of interest process, a series of artwork briefs will be developed providing specific information about the location, scale, size, timeline and deliverables.

Shortlisted artists will be invited to prepare a concept design for a fee, responding to the creative brief and putting forward their own ideas for developing the artwork. Successful artists will work with the core group of Aboriginal representatives to incorporate themes and stories that are both meaningful and reflective of local Aboriginal culture.

Expressions of interest for Aboriginal artists are open until 10 March 2026. 

For more information visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au/yoursay.

Net zero home cuts energy bills and emissions

The Minns Labor Government has unveiled a new net zero display home which is making sustainability accessible and showing households how they can save on their energy bills.

The display home delivered by the NSW Government’s property and land developer Landcom, in partnership with McDonald Jones Homes, can generate as much or more energy than an average household consumes.

Designed for everyday families, it’s estimated the net zero home could save the average household up to $1,700 a year in bills.

The Panorama Net Zero Home is part of Landcom’s sustainable 6 Star Green Star certified ‘Panorama’ development at North Wilton and will be open to the public from Saturday 14 February.

Visitors to the display home can get a practical, hands-on look at technologies, design and construction materials that can be used for new or existing homes.

These include:

  • Renewable energy:  The home is fully electric, powered by rooftop solar and battery-ready technology, producing as much energy as it uses each year.
  • Better living: Designed to feel comfortable all year round, the home has good insulation, airtight design and a mechanical heat recovery ventilation system to maximise energy efficiency alongside smart moisture control to prevent condensation.
  • Climate-ready: The home is built to handle future climate conditions, with features like double glazed windows, weather resistive barriers and a roof with storm fasteners and that help it cope with heat, drought and major storms.
  • Efficiency: The home is fitted with water efficient fittings, a recycled water irrigation system, an induction cooktop and energy efficient appliances to maximise efficiency.
  • Reuse: To help reduce its impact on the planet, recycled materials were used wherever possible including in benchtops, tiling and tapware.

The home has been awarded some of the highest certifications in NSW including BASIX 100 Energy score, a Green Star Homes certification from the Green Building Council of Australia, and a leading 8.7 Star NatHERS rating.

For more information visit: https://www.landcom.com.au/about/sustainability/panorama-net-zero-demonstration-home/

Minister for Energy Penny Sharpe said:

“Making small energy efficient changes around your home can make a big difference in cutting your energy bills and emissions.

“This home shows you can be your own power station, lowering your energy bills at the same time.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“The Panorama net zero home demonstrates that sustainable house features aren’t just for premium high-end home builds. They can be delivered by the industry at scale and can help cut the cost of living by lowering water and energy bills with a potential saving of around $1,700 every year for homeowners.

“Increasingly people are interested in the choices that might be available to them to build and live more sustainably while reducing their bills. This display home will help to remove some of the mystery about available technologies and how they can be used in new and existing homes.

“I encourage both current and prospective homeowners to come check out the display home to get inspiration and advice for how they can make their existing or new build home more sustainable and cheaper to live in.”

Landcom CEO Alex Wendler said:

“At Panorama, we’re making homes happen and leading the way in delivering more sustainable, resilient and healthier homes.

“We’re demonstrating what’s possible with off-the-shelf technology and encourage the industry to make this the new normal in housing delivery.

“Landcom’s Panorama development is a fitting home for this innovation, where we’re unlocking up to 5,600 homes centred around sustainable living.”

McDonald Jones Homes CEO Rob Douglas said:

“Working on this project has provided our team with insights into what sustainable materials are available from across our supply chain.

“We plan to use this knowledge to explore opportunities that could be delivered at scale not only across our NSW business but nationally.

“McDonald Jones has found this project to be of great value for our business, and I encourage people interested in sustainable design practices to visit the home and see what is possible.”

From DA to done in 14 weeks: Three new modular homes delivered in Shellharbour

The Minns Labor Government has delivered three new social homes in Shellharbour using Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), with another one on the way by April 2026.

The Shellharbour homes demonstrate how modular construction can dramatically reduce delivery times, with each home taking an average of 14-16 weeks from development approval to completion.

Modular construction allows houses to be built off-site while site works happen in parallel. This reduces weather delays and onsite inefficiencies, delivering homes up to 20% faster than traditional construction, without compromising on quality.

Three new homes are now ready for Shellharbour residents to move in, with a fourth on track for installation in April. Homes NSW worked with Australian manufacturer Moov Modular to deliver these safe, high-quality homes for those in need.

The Minns Labor Government is leading the way using MMC to take housing delivery to the next level, all backed by a record-breaking $6.6 billion investment in social housing.

Eight modular social homes were completed in 2025, including three in Wollongong and five in Lake Macquarie.

A total of 90 homes will be delivered using MMC across Greater Sydney and regional NSW by the end of this year, providing new homes for up to 200 people.

Minister for Housing Rose Jackson said:

“These Shellharbour homes show what’s possible when government builds smarter. Using modular construction, we’re delivering high-quality social homes in a matter of weeks, not years, getting people into safe, secure housing sooner. 

“Modern Methods of Construction doesn’t mean cutting corners, these homes are built to the same standards as traditional housing, with precision manufacturing, durability and comfort front of mind.

“These homes are part of a growing pipeline of modular housing across NSW, backed by record investment and a clear focus on delivery.” 

Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park said:

“Modern methods of construction are allowing us to take housing delivery to the next level and I’m thrilled to see the results of that investment here in Shellharbour.

“By moving the building process into a controlled factory environment, we’re getting more families into homes sooner. That’s the kind of innovation we need to tackle the housing crisis in the Illawarra.”

Member for Shellharbour Anna Watson said:

“I’m incredibly proud to see Shellharbour at the forefront of this housing revolution. These are high-quality, modern houses that will fit seamlessly into our community.

“For the residents moving in, it means a fresh start in a safe, secure home months earlier than traditional building methods would have allowed.”