First stage of Blayney MPS Redevelopment reaches milestone

The Blayney Multipurpose Service (MPS) has reached a significant milestone, with the concrete poured for the first phase of the project.

The Blayney MPS Redevelopment project is the final site to be delivered under the NSW Government’s $297 million Multipurpose Service Program Stage 5 to improve and enhance health facilities across smaller rural and remote communities.

It will deliver a new purpose-built and modern health facility to improve health and aged care services for the community of Blayney. The new facility will include a new residential aged care wing with single rooms and bathrooms, more inpatient unit beds, increased chair-based services, more HealthOne rooms, and room for future expansion.

The new MPS is being built on the existing Osman Street site in stages to ensure all clinical services continue to operate during construction. The project’s first phase, which includes construction of a new Residential Aged Care wing and Inpatient Unit, is progressing well with the final concrete pour now complete.

The next steps will include construction of the Residential Aged Care wing and Inpatient Unit, followed by the internal fit-out, services installation and other exterior works. The aged care residents will relocate into the new Residential Aged Care wing once this phase of redevelopment is completed.

The second phase of works will then start, including demolition of the existing buildings and construction of the new HealthOne, entry, reception, waiting room, staff area and ambulatory care.  

The current MPS remains fully operational as construction progresses and every effort is being made to minimise disruption to residents, staff, patients and visitors. 

The community will continue to be updated about the redevelopment’s progress with information available on the project website.

For more information, visit the Multipurpose Service Program website. 

Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park:  

“I’m thrilled the new Blayney MPS is another step closer with the concrete pours for the first phase complete, and I look forward to seeing the redevelopment continue to take shape. 

“The Blayney MPS Redevelopment is the final project to be redeveloped under the NSW Government’s $297 million Multipurpose Program Stage 5, with another 17 sites in NSW either upgraded or redeveloped, which is an outstanding achievement.”

Government Spokesperson for Bathurst, Stephen Lawrence, MLC:

“Blayney MPS isn’t just a health facility – it’s also a home to those living in the residential aged care wing. The new Blayney MPS will ensure the residents have a modern and comfortable home with the high-quality care they deserve.

“The professional and caring staff at Blayney are also looking forward to having the latest fit-for-purpose facilities, lots of light, and dedicated staff areas so they can provide the best possible care to our community in an improved working environment.” 

Surge in app-etite for business support following Business Bureau’s digital boost

The NSW Government continues to transform how businesses interact with government services with new enhancements to the Service NSW Business Bureau’s digital tools providing efficient, accessible, and personalised support. 

Since the Service NSW Business Bureau launched in October 2023, more than 195,000 businesses have used its digital tools, the Service NSW Business Profile, and Service NSW Business Bureau app, to access government support, manage transactions, and save and track industry licences with a few taps. 

Enhancements to the Service NSW Business Bureau App include:

  • Sharing access: Business owners can securely invite team members to access their Business Profile.
  • Simplifying voucher management: Business owners can update and manage bank details securely. Voucher redemption and financial management can also be delegated to trusted team members.
  • Tracking applications in real time: Businesses can view their Voucher and Business Grant application status in real time, providing transparency and certainty. 

The Service NSW Business Profile is a single trusted gateway which helps businesses manage licences, applications and government services in one place. 

It has been enhanced to better support business owners across the State, giving businesses more control and convenience by allowing them to: 

  • Receive important updates: Opt-in for SMS and email notifications tailored to their needs, helping them stay compliant with regulation changes and stay up to date with business support opportunities.
  • Autofill applications: Save time by pre-filling details for new licence and financial support applications.
  • Track progress in real time: See where their applications are up to and get notified of the outcome.
  • Find new opportunities: Search for government tenders to help their business grow.
  • Get personalised support: Use live chat to connect with a Business Concierge for help where and when they need it. 

The Business Bureau provides digital products to support business owners at every stage of their journey, including:

  • License Manager: Search, save, organise, track and renew business, employee and subcontractor licences in one place. 
  • Advisor and event bookings: Businesses can schedule an appointment with a free, independent business advisor and register to get advice on marketing, cashflow, and business planning.
  • Self-check compliance for motor repair businesses:  An easy-to-use self-assessment tool designed for repair shops, garages and service centres, helping businesses check if they meet industry regulations.
  • Business Vehicle Registration: Small businesses can find and access vehicle registration renewal easily through their Business Profile and Business Bureau app. Already, more than 22,800 businesses have accessed this feature. 

There are more than 870,000 small businesses in NSW, making up 97 per cent of all NSW businesses.

NSW small businesses employ 1.8 million people in the private sector, which is around 43 per cent of the State’s private sector workforce. 

For more information on the Service NSW Business Bureau’s digital tools, call 13 77 88 or visit the Service NSW website.

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said: 

“The Business Bureau’s digital tools are making it easier than ever for small business owners across New South Wales to access the advice, information, and support they need. 

“We have seen more than 195,000 businesses access the Service NSW Business Bureau app and Service NSW Business Profile since the Business Bureau launched in October 2023, showing these digital tools are helping to make being in business easier. 

“We remain committed to making digital support and services for businesses across NSW more accessible and flexible than ever.” 

Northern Beaches Hospital proposal

The NSW Government has been notified of a proposal by Healthscope seeking to have Northern Beaches Hospital returned to the NSW public system.

The Minns Labor Government has made it clear it does not support public private partnerships being imposed on the state’s acute hospitals.

Patients can be assured that there will be no impact on health services at Northern Beaches Hospital while any potential discussions take place.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey:

“I note the owners of Healthscope are engaged in a market process potentially seeking to exit the business.

“After the way Healthscope has managed this partnership, it should not expect to walk away from the Northern Beaches Hospital with a profit.

“The NSW Government will be watching to ensure that no-one is trying to make a windfall gain at the expense of the people of NSW.

“The Government will engage with Healthscope management after questions of its ownership and whether it remains a going concern are resolved.”

Minister for Health Ryan Park:  

“We have always made clear that we do not support public private partnerships being imposed on our state’s acute hospitals.

“We will carefully consider any proposal regarding Northern Beaches Hospital.

“We can assure the community that Northern Beaches Hospital will continue to operate without interruption during any discussions.”

Tamworth’s new mental health unit nearing completion

Enhanced mental health care is just around the corner for Tamworth thanks to a major construction milestone, with the three-storey building structure of the new Tamworth Hospital Mental Health Unit now complete.

The new facility will provide welcoming, comfortable and supportive care and bring a much-needed expansion of mental health services to Tamworth and surrounding communities.

The elevated, modern unit includes a new bridge which will provide a direct connection between the inpatient floor of the new facility and the Tamworth Hospital building.

The 23-metre-long bridge was built off-site, assembled at the hospital campus and craned into position in three sections. Once operational, it will make it safer and easier for people to receive enhanced, integrated care.

The new unit, which will replace the nearby Banksia Mental Health Unit, will include:  

  • four adolescent inpatient beds 
  • 20 general adult beds, as well as a five-bed adult high acuity zone 
  • eight bed older persons’ area. 

With structural works complete, the project team will continue the internal fit-out, services installation and exterior works.

Mental health services at Tamworth Hospital remain available during the construction process at the existing Banksia Mental Health Unit, which will continue to operate until the new facility opens later this year.

The project is being delivered by Hunter New England Local Health District and Health Infrastructure as part of the NSW Government’s $700 million Statewide Mental Health Infrastructure Program. Hansen Yuncken is the builder.  

The construction has provided a major boost to the local economy with the employment of local contractors and sub-contractors. To date, more than 400 workers have been inducted on site, with a significant percentage of the workforce coming from the local region.

Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said:

“It’s fantastic to see the new mental health facility reach this milestone, taking us one step closer to delivering expanded and enhanced mental health services for the Tamworth community.

“With direct access to the hospital, the new unit will support better outcomes for people receiving mental health care, their families and carers.

“We know this new facility means a lot to the community. It will offer a modern, safe and supportive environment to those who need it most, which is why I am thrilled to see this project head towards its final phase before opening later this year.”

Duty Member of the Legislative Council for Tamworth Anthony D’Adam said:

“It’s great to see this important and highly anticipated facility take shape.

“This new mental health unit will make a real difference for the Tamworth community, providing more support close to home in a space designed with care and dignity in mind.

“I look forward to seeing the doors open later this year and the positive impact it will have for the region for years to come.”

Hunter New England Local Health District Mental Health Services General Manager Jonathan Holt said:

“The new facility has been designed in collaboration with staff and the local community to create a welcoming and supportive environment for patients, visitors and staff.

“A new forecourt full of native gardens will be created and used as a place to gather, along with a family room and courtyard, providing space for people and their families to come together and help in the healing process.”

RESIDENTIAL EATING DISORDERS CENTRE OPENS IN NEWCASTLE

People living with eating disorders across NSW can now access specialist residential care with the opening of the new $13.5 million Residential Eating Disorders Centre in Charlestown.

The two-storey, 12-bed centre in Charlestown is the first publicly funded service of its kind in NSW.

Suitable for people aged 16 and older with a diagnosed eating disorder, the centre provides evidence-based interventions in a nurturing, home-like environment.

The centre is designed to bridge the gap between community-based care and hospital admission, offering personalised support for people living with eating disorders and those who care for them.

Residents may stay at the centre for up to three months, depending on their progress. They will receive individualised support from a multi-disciplinary team of specialists including psychiatrists, psychologists, dietitians, nurses, occupational therapists, exercise physiologists and social workers.

A range of support and daily wellness activities will help residents increase their independence and continue their recovery journey at home, including psychotherapy, grocery shopping, cooking classes, and gentle movement sessions.

The funding is part of a $63 million Albanese Labor Government commitment to deliver eating disorder care centres nationally.

The centre will complement other eating disorder services across NSW, including local health district day programs and community-based therapies.

If you, or anyone you know, is experiencing an eating disorder or body image concerns, contact the Butterfly Foundation National Helpline on 1800 33 4673 (ED HOPE) or visit Butterfly.

Assistant Minister McBride:

“An estimated 1.1 million Australians are currently living with an eating disorder.

“The Labor Government is investing $63 million to open eating disorder centres across the country, including in Charlestown.

“We want people who have an eating disorder to access the care and support they need to recover and live a healthy life.”

Minister Conroy, Member for Shortland:

“Most of us will know someone who has experienced an eating disorder at some point in their lives – a friend, colleague or family member.

“I welcome this additional, specialised support people living with eating disorders in Charlestown and the Hunter region.”

“This is another example of the Federal Labor Government investing in quality healthcare services in Lake Macquarie after delivering the Charlestown Medicare Urgent Care Clinic and restoring funding to the GP Access After Hours Service.”

Sharon Claydon, Member for Newcastle:

“Opening this new centre is a significant step forward in providing much needed support and care to people struggling with eating disorders.

“This facility will not only provide expert treatment but also foster a compassionate and understanding environment where people can begin their journey to recovery.

“I am proud to be part of a Labor government that is working to address these issues with the seriousness and empathy they deserve, and this centre is a vital part of that commitment.”

Newcastle employers urged to improve communication to retain Gen-Z

Local employers came together at a forum hosted by Apprenticeship Support Australia (ASA) on Tuesday night to discuss the five generations working side-by-side in the workplace and strategies to bridge the generation gap. With apprentice completion rates still hovering at just 54%, it’s critical for businesses to engage and retain their young talent.

Former Newcastle Knights NRL player and current Assistant Coach Blake Green shared insights from his time spent coaching young athletes, emphasising that trust and communication go together in any team environment. “When I first started receiving feedback, you just copped it in front of everyone; it didn’t matter how you felt about it. That can’t happen in our environment today because you lose trust, the relationship breaks down.”

“It’s important to deliver feedback firmly, but the most important thing for us is showing genuine care and developing relationships. Once we show that, then we’re able to deliver feedback more effectively.”

Coaching psychology expert Susie Burrell, who led the panel, said, “Research highlights that apprentices and trainees are most likely to leave their jobs due to problems with their experience in the workplace, specifically around communication. Employers who fail to recognise generational differences or adapt their communication style risk losing valuable talent.”

Some of the strategies discussed included implementing regular career check-ins, highlighting pathways for the employee to keep them motivated, setting employees up for success with clear guidelines and expectations and mentorship through peer buddy systems.

ASA NSW North Manager, Jeff Cooke, said, “Larger employers with strong HR resources and experience in mentoring apprentices and trainees often achieve the highest completion rates. But not every business has that level of in-house expertise. That’s why these events and our programs are designed to support employers of all sizes, providing practical, low-cost strategies to help them build positive relationships with the next generation of workers.”

“Workplaces are changing, and while Gen-Z often get labelled with certain stereotypes, the reality is they can bring a lot of value to a business — especially when it comes to fresh ideas, technology and innovation,” Ms Burrell said. “It’s really just about employers learning how to genuinely connect with them to unlock their true potential.”

More information about ASA’s programs is available at apprenticeshipsupport.com.au or by calling 1300 363 831.

Appeal for information over armed robbery – Jewells

Police are appealing for public assistance over an armed robbery in the state’s north.

About 3pm on Friday 28 March 2025, police were called to a licensed premises on Ntaba Road, Jewells, following reports of an alleged armed robbery.

Officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District were told an unknown man forced his entry into the premises with a broken glass bottle before he stole an amount of cash and left the scene.

There were no injuries reported due to the incident.

A crime scene has been established and an investigation into the incident was commenced.

Following inquiries, police have released images of a man who they believe may be able to assist with inquiries.

The man is described as being of Caucasian appearance, of medium build, with short hair and beard, seen wearing grey track pants and black shoes.

Greens welcome calls for new approaches to food security but warn meeting climate change targets is paramount

The Greens welcome the national conversation stimulated today by an Australian Strategic Policy Institute report which highlights the need for stronger government leadership to ensure Australia’s food system is resilient enough to withstand current and future challenges – but are disappointed the report appears to downplay the risks of an accelerating climate breakdown. 

The Greens warn that immediately mitigating emissions and showing policy leadership on meeting global climate targets is paramount to ensure global food security into the future.

Greens spokesperson for agriculture, Senator Peter Whish-Wilson: 

“This report rightly highlights how Australia has taken its food security for granted for too long, operating under the false assumption that the world will stay the same as it’s been in living memory. 

“The climate crisis is changing the world so rapidly that the assumptions, policy approaches and economic frameworks that have traditionally supported Australia’s food security are no longer fit for purpose.

“The most important thing any government can do to help farmers and guarantee food security is radically reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including banning all new coal and gas projects and rapidly transitioning to renewables. 

“This simple but critical message was notably absent from this ASPI report, even though it identified climate change as a threat to food security. 

“Only focussing on agricultural adaptation measures to address climate-related risks without recommending the need for meaningful emissions reductions is like rearranging the deckchairs on the Titanic. 

“This report is a timely reminder that few industries are more impacted by climatic disruption than farming. Many farmers are still putting off implementing carbon or methane reduction farming techniques, partly due to perceptions of cost and productivity, lack of technological readiness, but also a lack of policy clarity and support. 

“By investing in climate action policies and sustainable practices that reduce methane emissions, increase on-farm renewables, and future-proof agriculture, the Greens are working to create a resilient and flourishing food system.”

Support for Northern and Western NSW farmers as flood risks increase

Landholders and communities in western NSW are being urged to prepare for extensive flooding and isolation throughout April and May as significant flows from Queensland continue to move down the river systems into NSW.

Major flooding is occurring on the Paroo River at Wanaaring, and moderate flooding on the Warrego River at Barringhun.

Flows from these river systems are expected to travel downstream with stock owners strongly encouraged to take the opportunity before flood waters peak to move stock to higher ground and ensure adequate fodder is on hand, if possible.

The Minns Government through the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and Local Land Services (LLS) have activated the Agricultural and Animal Services Functional Area (AASFA), which will support NSW SES in assisting landholders with:

  • Animal assessment and veterinary assistance
  • Euthanasia of animals and welfare grounds
  • Emergency fodder (for up to three days where there is an immediate animal welfare concern)
  • Emergency stock water (where there is an immediate animal welfare concern)
  • Livestock feeding and management advice
  • Aerial support for livestock

LLS will continue to contact landholders in at-risk communities along the Paroo to encourage preparedness..

AASFA will continue to work closely with SES providing support for this flood event, and long-term impacts to landholders.

For updated warnings on the NSW flood event, go to www.ses.nsw.gov.au or download the Hazards Near Me App.

For urgent requests for stock assistance, including animal assessment, veterinary support or emergency fodder, call the AASFA emergency hotline at: 1800 814 647

Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty said:

“With major flooding occurring and likely to last several weeks, I urge landholders and people in at-risk communities to act now. Move stock to higher ground, secure property, and have a plan in place.

“Staying informed during events like these is vital, monitor flood warnings, follow advice from authorities and reach out to emergency services if you need help.

“The NSW Government is committed to helping communities and our agricultural producers through this event, if you are in need of any stock assistance, veterinary support or emergency fodder, please call the AASFA emergency hotline on 1800 814 647.”

$180,000 to support people living with macular disease

The NSW Government has announced $180,000 in funding to increase access to treatment and support services for people living with macular disease.

The one-off grant will support national charity Macular Disease Foundation Australia (MDFA) to minimise the impact of the disease on the 1.9 million Australians living with it and their families.

Macular disease is the leading cause of severe vision loss and blindness in Australia and this grant will support the organisation to reduce the impacts of macular disease through prevention and early detection, supports for those living with it, and further research into the disease.

MDFA provides information and advice through programs such as a confidential helpline (1800 111 709), peer support groups, and services to support people living with the condition, those at risk of the condition and their families.

The Foundation also advocates for patients in NSW to receive affordable anti–vascular endothelial growth factor eye injections which can slow and, in some cases, prevent vision loss.

Without treatment, people with macular diseases such as neovascular AMD, diabetic macular oedema and retinal vein occlusion will lose their vision.

Minister for Health, Ryan Park:

“Macular disease impacts around one in seven Australians over the age of 50 years and in some cases can even lead to blindness.

“The NSW Government is supporting Macular Disease Foundation Australia to ensure more people across NSW who are at risk of this disease have access to sight-saving care and support.

“Through this work more people than ever before will have access to better treatment and support options which could improve the quality of life for them and their loved ones.” 

Chief Executive Officer Macular Disease Foundation Australia, Dr Kathy Chapman:

“Today marks a significant moment in Macular Disease Foundation Australia’s fight for sight. With the generous support from the NSW Government, we are pleased to be working with NSW Health to drive access to sight-saving treatments so no Australian needlessly goes blind from macular disease.

“This backing brings us closer to a future where accessibility and affordability are no longer barriers to health and well-being. No one should face macular disease without access to the treatment they need to keep their vision.”