Category: NSW News

The Minns Labor Government is today launching the new NSW Police Force Retail Crime Strategy to tackle retail crime and keep workers safe.

NSW Police will also roll out Operation Percentile statewide – a proven policing model targeting recidivist offending and high-harm retail offenders.

The strategy will tackle offences including assaults, intimidation and threats of violence, repeat offending and theft.

It was developed in consultation with the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees’ Association (SDA), the Australian Retailers Association, National Retail Association and the Shopping Centre Council.

It sends a clear message that the NSW Government and NSW Police Force have zero tolerance for anyone who attacks or instils fear in workers.

Key elements of the strategy include:

• Conducting high-visibility policing operations, including knife scanning operations in retail precincts to deter violent behaviour.
• Running intelligence-led retail theft operations to target and disrupt crime.
• Establishing dedicated points of contact within each police region to support faster communication, coordination and response to incidents.
• Further supporting retailers through educational initiatives, such as the distribution of Retail Safety Packs, along with undertaking Safer by Design site assessments, delivered by local Crime Prevention Officers.
• Developing a communication package for officers to increase frontline police awareness and understanding of retail crime and its impacts.
• Holding monthly meetings with NSW-based retailers to discuss emerging threats and issues raised by peak bodies.

Police prosecutors will apply to prevent recidivist and violent offenders from re-entering retail premises with a Place Restriction Order after a conviction. Operation Percentile is a key element of the new strategy.

It has run across Central Metropolitan Region since August 2024, proving so successful that police are rolling it out statewide.

Since launching in August 2024, 1,080 people have been charged with more than 1,395 offences with an estimated recovered stock value of $960,500.

Operation Percentile is formally recognised by the National Retail Association for excellence in law enforcement and its impact in retail crime prevention.

The strategy follows the Minns Labor Government cracking down on retail assaults, threats and abuse with tougher laws, penalties and prison time.

The 2023 laws created three new offences with penalties of up to 11 years’ imprisonment. Since July 2023, 189 individuals have been charged with 239 offences.

The Minns Labor Government has established a “tripartite working group” collaboration with SDA and the retailers to address violence against retail workers and potential penalties for misconduct.

Anyone can anonymously report an incident of violence in the workplace by calling SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50.

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley said:

“No one should be attacked for simply doing their job which is why the NSW Police, backed by the Minns Government, is taking decisive action by giving police everything they need to keep the community safe.

“Violence and aggression towards workers is intolerable and the presence of police tells people in no uncertain terms that this behaviour will not be tolerated and there are real consequences for those who cross the line.

“Today’s announcement strengthens our commitment to protect workers and with this new strategy, police will have the resources they need to respond swifty and effectively.

“We are deeply grateful for the dedication and professionalism of our police officers. They work tirelessly across every facet of their work, and this strategy will only strengthen that work.”

Minister for Work Health and Safety, Sophie Cotsis said:

“The NSW Police Force Retail Crime Strategy is yet another important step towards tackling retail crime and keeping workers safe.

“The Minns Labor Government’s tough laws to help protect retail workers include greater penalties and time behind bars with more than 100 people charged since June 2023. We have seen over 3,300 requests for service in the retail sector made to SafeWork NSW over the past five years.

“I have formed a tripartite working group along with SafeWork NSW, SDA and the retailers to address violence and abuse against workers in the retail sector and ensure compliance. This work is also backed by SafeWork NSW’s Respect at Work team who create tailored guidance preventing harassment in the retail sector.

“The NSW Government is taking a zero-tolerance approach. Retail workers have the right to feel and be safe when they go to work and this strategy will continue to protect them.”

NSW Police Commissioner, Mal Lanyon said:

“It’s deeply concerning that a small proportion of offenders are responsible for a significant share of retail crime, with devastating consequences for those affected.

“This strategy outlines clear objectives and a comprehensive suite of tactics to disrupt repeat offending and drive intelligence-led retail operations across the state.

“Police will continue to collaborate closely with retailers and industry bodies to refine our disruption strategies and respond swiftly to emerging threats.

“While prevention remains our priority, we will also enforce place-based restrictions to prevent recidivist offenders from causing further harm.”

Secretary of SDA NSW, Bernie Smith said:

“This new Retail Crime Strategy is a crucial step forward to protect frontline retail workers from the escalating wave of customer violence and abuse.

“It builds on years of campaigning by retail workers through the SDA’s ‘No One Deserves a Serve’ campaign.

“We’ve had enough of retail workers being treated like punching bags.

“Cops in shops are especially welcome; high visibility policing in shopping centres will send a strong message that violence and intimidation won’t be tolerated anywhere.

“No area is safe from retail crime. We welcome the fact that this is a truly statewide effort, from Albury to Alstonville, from Dubbo to Mount Druitt, and everywhere in between.”

Chief Executive of the Australian Retailers Association, Chris Rodwell said:

“The NSW Government is showing genuine leadership in addressing the devastating impacts of retail crime – first with toughened legislation, and now with the strengthened commitment to police resourcing and the apprehension of repeat offenders. It follows extensive consultation with the government, including direct discussions with the Premier.

“Retail crime is at a crisis level in Australia, with a ripple effect on every retail worker, business owner and retail customer. Too often our front-line workers bear the brunt of this crime wave with unacceptable levels of customer aggression, abuse, assault and weapon-related threats and attacks. By conservative estimates, retail theft costs retailers $9 billion every year. Every customer faces the impact of that because it ultimately leads to increased prices at the check-out.

“We know 10 percent of offenders are responsible for around 60 percent of total harm, which is why the emphasis on repeat offenders is strongly welcomed in today’s announcements.

“There is no single solution to this ongoing challenge, but this latest action by the NSW Government and NSW Police is a great example of what can be achieved by listening and collaborating with retailers. We are committed to working with them and communities across the state to reduce retail crime and improve the safety of every person working in retail.”

Chief Executive of the Shopping Centre Council of Australia (SCCA), Angus Nardi said:

“The shopping centre industry strongly supports the NSW Government’s new Retail Crime Strategy.

“Our industry thanks the NSW Government for their engagement, and we look forward to partnering further with the Government, NSW Police and other stakeholders to ensure community safety in shopping centres and other retail settings.

“It is particularly pleasing that the Strategy has a strong focus on repeat and high-harm offenders, and also sends a strong signal that aggression, violence and intimidation in retail settings will not be tolerated.”

The Minns Labor Government has secured an historic three-year partnership to support NSW libraries as vibrant hubs for NSW Grandparents Day celebrations.

The partnership with the NSW Public Libraries Association locks in almost $180,000 for 112 NSW libraries to host activities over the NSW Grandparents’ Day weekend.

NSW Grandparents’ Day activities may include short programs, performances, and Storytime.

This is the first time a three-year partnership has been established in recognition of the invaluable contributions of grandparents and older role models to families and communities across the state.

Libraries provide inclusive spaces for seniors to stay connected and active in their communities. They offer engaging opportunities including educational programs, social activities, and digital literacy workshops. 

Coordination of NSW Grandparents’ Day events is identified as a key action to support participation in inclusive communities as part of the Ageing Well in NSW Action Plan 2025-2026.

NSW Grandparents Day has been a feature of the NSW Ageing Strategy for 14 years.

Events are an opportunity for family members to make grandparents feel loved on their special day.

For more information and celebration ideas, visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/family-and-relationships/grandparents-day

Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said:

“Each year, NSW Grandparents Day recognises grandparents and the diversity of grandparent relationships we have with older people in our community.

“We all have a special place in our hearts for grandparents and it’s fitting for us to make them feel special for everything they do for us.

“This three-year partnership puts libraries at the centre of NSW Grandparents Day celebrations and helps foster a culture of connection and lifelong learning. 

“This NSW Grandparents’ Day on Sunday 26 October is the perfect opportunity to honour grandparents, the lives they have lived and the contributions they have made and continue to make.” 

CEO NSW Public Libraries Association Adele Casey said:

“Through our ongoing partnership with the government, NSWPLA is thrilled to see more than 110 libraries marking Grandparents’ Day this year.

“Three years of dedicated funding ensures that Grandparents’ Day events thrive in libraries across NSW and continue to strengthen intergenerational bond, foster community spirit and honour the lasting contributions of older people.”

NSW Ambulance proudly welcomed 40 new paramedic interns and 21 trainee emergency medical call takers today, officially inducting them into the service during a ceremony at the State Operations Centre in Sydney Olympic Park.

With this latest intake, NSW Ambulance has now added around 800 new paramedic trainees, along with more than 150 emergency medical call takers since the start of the year, providing an important boost to frontline health services across the state.

The recruits bring with them a diverse range of skills and experiences, including paramedic intern Shoallea Attoe, who overcame several personal obstacles to fulfill her dream and Niko Auer, who previously worked in media and will be joining the ranks of our emergency medical call takers.

Paramedic interns will now begin the on-road phase of their 12-month internships at various locations across NSW, before taking up permanent positions in both metropolitan and regional communities.

The trainee emergency medical call takers will be posted to the Sydney control centre.

Minister for Health, Ryan Park:

“I’m so proud to welcome these incredible new paramedics and emergency call takers to NSW Ambulance.

“These additional recruits will play an important role in supporting our community in emergencies, strengthening our frontline workforce and helping form the backbone of our healthcare system.

“The Minns Labor Government knows that investing in additional paramedics and emergency call takers is vital for the evolution of NSW Ambulance, as it continues to deliver exceptional patient care.”

NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan:

“I am delighted to welcome this latest group of paramedics and emergency call takers, with both roles critical in delivering timely and high-quality care.

“The diverse background and experiences of these new recruits will enrich the service and benefit communities across the state.

“Welcoming new staff is not just about increasing numbers; it is about building a team that patients can trust to deliver world class responses and treatment.”

paramedic intern, Shoallea Attoe:

“I had dreams of becoming a paramedic, but as a teenage mum it felt so far out of reach that I dismissed it.

“I am so proud of how far I’ve come, and of the example I’ve been able to set for my daughter that no matter your background, dreams that once felt impossible can be reached.”

trainee emergency medical call taker, Niko Auer: 

“I wanted to find a more meaningful job, something community focused and with a positive career progression.

“To be such an integral part of an emergency service is the right direction for me.”

The Entertainment Quarter is one step closer to a vibrant new future with the NSW Government today opening the tender process for the revitalisation of the site, supported by a new long-term lease.

Currently, the Entertainment Quarter (EQ) at Moore Park is falling short of meeting its full potential as one of Sydney’s key hubs for entertainment, sport and creative industries.

In a prime location, the EQ sits alongside the SCG and Allianz Stadium, is 300 meters from the light rail, and is within walking distance of Centennial Park. The potential for the former Sydney Showgrounds site is immense.

The market is encouraged to submit their interest in delivering a world-class redevelopment of the EQ, ensuring it flourishes well into future, supporting more visitors, live performances and public events.

The process will allow all interested parties to put forward their plans to redevelop the precinct.

The open tender process will seek proposals that:

• Deliver a hub of activity, driving increased visitation all year round, including midweek and at night.
• Celebrate the history and cultural heritage of the site, integrating with the broader sports and entertainment precinct and parklands.
• Create spaces that can host substantial audiences for live performances, with the potential for an indoor arena of 15–20,000 seats as part of the vision.

The process will be conducted openly and transparently, with independent probity oversight to ensure value for money and a fair opportunity for all proponents.

Revitalising the 10.96 hectare site aligns with the Government’s vibrancy reforms and vision for the state’s night-time economy: to cement NSW as a world-class nightlife destination for visitors, locals and workers alike.

Tender responses must be submitted by Friday, 5 December 2025.

To enable the open tender process, the NSW Government has secured agreement from the current leaseholder, Carsingha Investments Pty Ltd, for a conditional exit from its existing lease, which has a maximum term expiring in 2046.

The tender process follows initial market soundings, along with stakeholder consultation to develop a framework to guide the evaluation of proposals.

To view the tender documentation and for more information on the opportunity to revitalise the EQ, visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/investment-nsw/why-nsw/entertainment-quarter.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said:

“The NSW Government wants to see the EQ at Moore Park reach its full potential.

“We will do this through a long-term lease, which will allow the successful proponent to make the necessary investments.

“We want to transform the EQ into a world-class precinct that Sydney can truly be proud of.”

Minister for Music and the Night-Time Economy John Graham said:

“In opening the EOI process we’re getting closer to seeing entertainment at the Entertainment Quarter.

“We want to draw out world-class ideas that make the most of the great location and amplifies its role as Sydney’s premier sports and entertainment precinct, with a range of day and night entertainment opportunities for the community.

“Sydney is crying out for a new large live music and performance space. Complementing the lifting of the concert cap at Centennial Park, a revitalised and vibrant Entertainment Quarter will help us continue to unshackle our entertainment culture from the dark days of the lock-out era.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“Sydney is a world class city that deserves the facilities in the Entertainment Quarter to match, so we can attract events and performances NSW has been crying out for.

“The expressions of interest and assessment process will make sure we are getting the best outcome possible for the people of NSW. 

“This builds on the Minns Labor Government continuing vibrancy reforms that are re-igniting our state’s spark.”

The Minns Labor Government has passed legislation strengthening penalties for vandals who seriously damage war memorials.

The Crimes Legislation Amendment (War Memorial Offences) Bill 2025 passed Parliament on Wednesday afternoon, creating an aggravated offence of intentional or reckless property damage or destruction applying to war memorials.

It increases the maximum penalty from five to seven years’ imprisonment for intentionally or recklessly damaging a war memorial.

The bill also amended the Summary Offences Act to allow the court to order a convicted person to pay up to $4,400 in compensation for any loss or damage caused.

This discretionary order means local councils, RSLs or other community organisations that maintain war memorials will not have to foot the bill for remediation.

One war memorial desecrated is one too many. The NSW Government is making sure the courts have the toughest possible penalties available to deter this unacceptable behaviour.

The protection of our war memorials is vital. Local war memorials play a crucial role in honouring the service and sacrifice of all those who have served.

They provide a space for communities to gather, reflect and educate the next generation.

Attributable to the Attorney General:

“The passage of this important legislation sends the clear message that the vandalism of our war memorials is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

“It provides the strongest possible penalties for this unacceptable conduct and also means local organisations will not be left with the bill to repair any damage caused.”

Attributable to the Minister for Veterans David Harris:

“This legislation demonstrates this Government’s commitment to our veterans and their families and honouring their service and sacrifice.

“The strengthened provisions will ensure those who act inappropriately and desecrate the memories of veterans will feel the full weight of the law.

”We’ve listened to veterans and acted.”

A nation-leading program is giving sick children and their families in NSW a new option for care, allowing some children who would previously have been admitted to hospital short stay units to be safely managed at home.

This Virtual Care Awareness Week, the Minns Government is shining a light on the success of virtual care programs in NSW.

More than 100 paediatric patients have been admitted to the virtualKIDS Emergency Department (ED) Short Stay Unit since the trial began in March 2024, with 80 per cent recovering in the comfort of their own home.

The program developed in collaboration with the EDs and virtualKIDS at Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network has been proven so successful, it has now been awarded a $500,000 funding boost to expand services as part of the Translational Research Grants Scheme (TRGS).

TRGS funding will allow care provided through virtualKIDS ED Short Stay Unit to include state of the art home monitoring devices.

Suitable patients will be sent home with wearable devices which enable clinicians to remotely monitor vital signs such as oxygen levels and heart rate, enhancing the accuracy and effectiveness of virtual healthcare.

This will mean children with respiratory illnesses can avoid a hospital admission, while receiving ongoing care at home. The roll out will be staged and is expected to be underway by December.

The model is also being assessed for statewide expansion, with a potential roll out to regional partners in Dubbo.

The Minns Labor Government’s 2024-25 NSW Budget delivered a half a billion-dollar investment to relieve pressure on EDs, by creating more pathways to care outside the hospital, as well as improving patient flow inside the hospital.

Across the state, virtual care programs are providing much-needed relief to busy emergency departments while ensuring people receive quality care when they need it.

Families can access virtual care services by first phoning healthdirect, where you will speak to a registered nurse, who will assess what pathway is most appropriate.

healthdirect helps people access the right care – whether it’s advice on how to look after yourself at home, finding a nearby GP, or being connected to a doctor, urgent care service or other healthcare provider online.

Around 178 callers per day avoided unnecessary trips to the ED and were referred to an alternative health care provider during the last financial year.

This is a 42 per cent increase compared to the previous 12 months.

This helps to reduce pressure on NSW public hospitals while ensuring patients receive timely care through more appropriate care pathways.

The community is reminded to use the healthdirect service for non-life-threatening conditions. If you or someone you are with is experiencing a medical emergency, please continue to call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“We are relieving pressure on our hospitals and emergency departments by investing in alternative care pathways.

“The virtualKIDS ED Short Stay Unit has already helped more than 100 children and their families avoid an extended stay in hospital while receiving expert medical care from home, for free.

“This research funding will help expand the already successful service, so we can continue to improve access to health care for everyone in NSW.

“More pathways to care outside of the hospital; more staff; more hospitals; lower wait times – it’s as simple as that.”

Minister for Medical Research David Harris:

“Programs like this innovative virtual short stay unit are a great example of how medical research can be translated into practical programs that have real positive outcomes for patients.

“It is particularly pleasing that this program is enabling sick children to receive state-of-the art care they need in the comfort of home with their family.

“The Translational Research Grants Scheme is an important part of our efforts to strengthen research capacity to ultimately improve the delivery of our health services.”

Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network Director of Research Adj A/Professor Paula Bray:

“This innovative program allows us to personalise care to eligible families, improving health outcomes and responding to the state’s evolving paediatric healthcare needs.

“It means families can access care that’s not only tailored to their needs but also backed by the latest scientific evidence.”

The Minns Labor Government is getting on with the job of busting congestion on the Central Coast, with work officially underway on the first stage of the $40 million Gosford Bypass upgrade.

The commencement of work marks the delivery of yet another election commitment for the Coast, with the Minns Government having now invested more than $294 million on Central Coast roads.

These early works mark the start of a series of projects designed to bust bottlenecks and get traffic moving for the 30,000 motorists who use the corridor every day.

The first stage of the project will prioritise the Manns Road and Stockyard Place intersection at West Gosford.

The upgrade will deliver:

• Extended southbound lanes north of the intersection to keep traffic flowing
• A new 2.5-metre-wide shared path for cyclists and pedestrians
• Improvements to the right-turn lane into Stockyard Place
• Smoother, safer road surfaces and line markings
• A relocated northbound bus stop for easier and safer access.

Work is expected to take about six weeks to complete, weather permitting, with construction carried out at night between 7pm and 4am to minimise disruption on locals.

Some lane closures will be required, and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h will apply as work is completed.

The Gosford Bypass program is being delivered in stages, combining short-term congestion-busting improvements with planning for future major upgrades along the corridor. Two further projects are currently in design and expected to be finalised in early 2026:

1. Pacific Highway and Parsons Road intersection (roundabout capacity upgrade)
2. Pacific Highway between Newling Street and Kathleen Morreau Road (safety and pedestrian improvements)

For more information and project updates, visit transport.nsw.gov.au/GosfordBypass.

Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its promise to ease congestion and get traffic moving on the Central Coast.

“The Gosford Bypass is a vital north–south link for locals, freight and visitors, and we’re getting on with the job of improving safety and reliability for every road user.

“This investment will make a real difference for thousands of motorists, cyclists and pedestrians who rely on this corridor every day.”

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said:

“Progressing this region-enhancing project is a major win for the Central Coast.

“The Gosford Bypass upgrades will cut travel times, reduce congestion and make our roads safer for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.

“It’s exactly the kind of infrastructure our growing region needs and deserves.”

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said:

“We promised to fix congestion on the Gosford Bypass and that’s exactly what we’re doing.

“This upgrade will mean smoother, safer and faster trips for locals, and better connections between West Gosford and the M1.

“I want to thank the community for their patience as we deliver this important project for our community.”

Member for The Entrance David Mehan said:

“Promises made, promises kept. This is a great milestone for the people of the Central Coast.

“These works represent real progress on delivery of the Gosford Bypass.”

NSW Ambulance proudly welcomed 40 new paramedic interns and 21 trainee emergency medical call takers today, officially inducting them into the service during a ceremony at the State Operations Centre in Sydney Olympic Park.

With this latest intake, NSW Ambulance has now added around 800 new paramedic trainees, along with more than 150 emergency medical call takers since the start of the year, providing an important boost to frontline health services across the state.

The recruits bring with them a diverse range of skills and experiences, including paramedic intern Shoallea Attoe, who overcame several personal obstacles to fulfill her dream and Niko Auer, who previously worked in media and will be joining the ranks of our emergency medical call takers.

Paramedic interns will now begin the on-road phase of their 12-month internships at various locations across NSW, before taking up permanent positions in both metropolitan and regional communities.

The trainee emergency medical call takers will be posted to the Sydney control centre.

Minister for Health, Ryan Park:

“I’m so proud to welcome these incredible new paramedics and emergency call takers to NSW Ambulance.

“These additional recruits will play an important role in supporting our community in emergencies, strengthening our frontline workforce and helping form the backbone of our healthcare system.

“The Minns Labor Government knows that investing in additional paramedics and emergency call takers is vital for the evolution of NSW Ambulance, as it continues to deliver exceptional patient care.”

NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan:

“I am delighted to welcome this latest group of paramedics and emergency call takers, with both roles critical in delivering timely and high-quality care.

“The diverse background and experiences of these new recruits will enrich the service and benefit communities across the state.

“Welcoming new staff is not just about increasing numbers; it is about building a team that patients can trust to deliver world class responses and treatment.”

paramedic intern, Shoallea Attoe:

“I had dreams of becoming a paramedic, but as a teenage mum it felt so far out of reach that I dismissed it.

“I am so proud of how far I’ve come, and of the example I’ve been able to set for my daughter that no matter your background, dreams that once felt impossible can be reached.”

trainee emergency medical call taker, Niko Auer: 

“I wanted to find a more meaningful job, something community focused and with a positive career progression.

“To be such an integral part of an emergency service is the right direction for me.”

Victim survivors of crime in NSW will have a stronger voice after the Minns Labor Government passed legislation to establish an independent commissioner to advocate for their rights.

The Victim Rights and Victims of Crime Commissioner Bill 2025 passed Parliament late on Wednesday, fulfilling an election promise to establish an Independent Victims Commissioner.

The new Commissioner will assume the advocacy functions of the current Commissioner of Victims Rights, who will continue to administer the Victims Support Scheme and register for victims of forensic patients. The new Commissioner will:

• Be appointed by the Governor and operate independently of Government.
• Advocate on behalf of victims of crime on a systemic level and oversee the Charter of Victims’ Rights, which sets out how victims of crime should be treated.
• Have the power to request or require an individual or agency to produce information or documents related to an alleged breach of the Charter.
• Be able to prepare special reports for NSW Parliament on relevant matters, including the Charter of Victims’ Rights, and enter information-sharing arrangements with public sector agencies.
• Be responsible for identifying, reviewing and conducting research into systemic issues faced by victims of crime, consulting with victims of crime and their supporters, and making recommendations to the Attorney General.

The Bill also renamed the Victims Rights and Support Act 2013 as the Victims Support Act 2013.

This will allow the Independent Victims Commissioner to appoint a new Victims Advisory Committee to replace the existing Victims Advisory Board.

The new committee will include representatives from the general community who have relevant knowledge of and experience in matters relating to victims of crime.

It will also include an Aboriginal representative as well as representation from NSW Police, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Legal Aid and the Department of Communities and Justice.

The passage of the legislation follows detailed and extensive consultation with key groups including victims’ support bodies and justice agencies.

Attributable to Attorney General Michael Daley:

“The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its promise to give victim survivors of crime a stronger voice.

“This legislation will allow for the establishment of an advocate for victim survivors of crime operating independently of Government.

“The Independent Victims Commissioner will play a crucial role in shaping policies affecting victim survivors and champion their interests.”

An elected NSW Liberals and Nationals Government will unlock the Erskineville, Macdonaldtown, Newtown and St Peters area for new housing, transforming land around four train stations for a vibrant, connected community with thousands of new homes.

This announcement follows on from the Long Bay plan for thousands of homes unveiled last month.  Together they mark the beginning of a series of bold commitments to tackle the housing shortage and give more families, renters and first-time buyers a fair go.

The precinct commitment today covers more than 100 hectares of land located in the City of Sydney local government area and within minutes of Central Station. Today it holds mostly low-rise housing. The plan is to protect the character of key heritage streets while focusing new homes near stations and on suitable redevelopment sites. 

Early estimates suggest the area could support up to 15,000 new homes, staged over time with schools, childcare centres, green spaces and community facilities.

Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said the renewal would change lives by putting more housing where transport and services already exist.

“We’re putting forward a vision that makes sense for Sydney. These are neighbourhoods with trains, hospitals, schools and universities on their doorstep. Our plan is about making sure the next generation can afford to live here too. We won’t sit by while others make excuses,” Mr Speakman said.

Shadow Minister for Transport and Roads Natalie Ward said the plan shows how infrastructure and housing can work together.

“With four stations already in place, this community can grow without forcing people further away from jobs and study. Macdonaldtown station already has an upgrade planned and we would improve cycleways and safer walking links. Just like we built the metros and light rail, we will deliver the transport that makes housing possible,” Ms Ward said.

Shadow Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Scott Farlow said the renewal would show how density and amenity can work hand in hand.

“This is about homes with heart. We will renew communities with open space and give people the schools and services they need. This is a once-in-a-generation chance to bring new life to the inner city while protecting what makes it special,” Mr Farlow said.

Key features of the plan include:

• A staged renewal with a master planning process focussed within an 800-metre radius of Erskineville station and 400-metre radius of Macdonaldtown, Newtown and St Peters stations, limited to within the City of Sydney Council area. The total investigation area would be in excess of 100 hectares,  delivering up to 15,000 new homes depending on final boundaries and configuration.
• Completing upgrades to Macdonaldtown station and early delivery of new cycling corridors and pedestrian connections.
• Expansion of local schools and new childcare centres to keep pace with population growth.
• New parks, community facilities and sustainability standards to support liveability.
• A planning approach that considers local heritage and places higher density near stations, with high frequency services within 10 minutes off Central. 

This renewal is just one element of the Liberals’ and Nationals’ housing agenda for 2027, showing that bold ideas and practical delivery can transform Sydney for the better.