Category: NSW News

The NSW Government has announced the establishment of a new company to operate the world-leading viral vector manufacturing facility based at Westmead, which will produce groundbreaking and life-saving therapies.

Viral vectors are a key component of many cell and gene therapies, and vaccines, which are increasingly being used to treat cancer, genetic diseases and infections.

Viral vector technology uses viruses that are harmless to humans to carry genetic therapies to the target organs and systems that cause significant human diseases.

Establishing a commercial company with an agile, responsive operating model will provide a strong base for the sustainable, long-term success of the Viral Vector Manufacturing facility.

Stage 1 of the facility is operational for use in gene therapy research with the first clinical trial anticipated to commence in 2025 using vectors from the facility.

The Stage 2 facility is currently under construction and once completed will provide NSW with a commercial-scale viral vector manufacturing facility capable of meeting the growing demand for viral vectors.

Completion of construction works is expected by the end of 2024, with Good Manufacturing Practice  certification to follow soon after. The company is to be registered as Viral Vector Manufacturing Facility Pty Ltd. It will manufacture the vectors and supply them to specialised healthcare staff, who will deliver the therapies to patients.

Overall, the NSW Government has committed $134.5 million to establish the Facility and to manufacture viral vector products for research and clinical trials.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said:

“NSW is a globally recognised leader in developing and delivering gene therapies, cell therapies and vaccines, and viral vectors are a key part of many of these therapies.

“This is cutting-edge, world class work happening right here in Western Sydney.

“This commercial-scale facility will allow us to meet local manufacturing demand, and further establish us as a respected leader in this field.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said:

“My priority as health minister has been to embrace innovative initiatives in improving health outcomes for our community.

“I am so proud that NSW Health is at the forefront of this world leading treatment.

“Today’s announcement will have real life changing benefits for people suffering from genetic diseases, cancers and viral infections.

“These therapies are expanding rapidly, targeting more and more genetic diseases, cancer and infections – significantly increasing the number of patients who can and will benefit from viral vectors.

“This expansion in potential applications, treatments and patient benefits is not however matched by current manufacturing capacity, either locally or globally, which is causing a delay in us achieving these benefits.”

Minister for Medical Research David Harris said:

“This will mean researchers have a local viral vector supply for their work, and attract students and researchers from around the world.

“Investing in health precincts like this one is an important part of making sure that research can thrive and is integrated in the wider health ecosystem.”

Member for Parramatta Donna Davis said:

“The facility is an important part of the Westmead Health and Innovation Precinct here in western Sydney.

“I am so proud that Parramatta is home to this facility which is at the cutting edge of medical research and treatment.”

NSW based Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are being encouraged to collaborate with universities and research organisations as part of an $11 million funding program to boost innovation. 

The Boosting Business Innovation Program (BBIP) will see SMEs partner with Publicly Funded Research Organisations (PFROs) to improve productivity across NSW over the next four years. 

Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said the revised BBIP scheme, which now includes TechVouchers grants, is designed to connect SMEs with research organisations to fast-track idea development and accelerate the rate of innovation. 

“During consultation on the Government’s Innovation Blueprint, I’ve heard directly from stakeholders that there are big barriers for businesses looking to commercialise their great ideas, and we want to make it easier”, Mr Chanthivong said.   

“NSW should be the most attractive place in the nation for businesses aligned with areas including clean energy and waste, medical and life sciences, agriculture and advanced manufacturing, to make new product developments and achieve productivity gains.  

“In partnership with our partners, this program will help break down obstacles for innovators by providing improved access to research facilities, the latest technology, training opportunities and expert advice. 

“It will also fund collaborative research projects between SMEs and researchers through TechVoucher grants.” 

Of the total $11 million in funding, $7.15 million is allocated to delivery partners to subsidise the cost of providing facilities and services such as co-working spaces, business incubators, accelerator programs, start-up hubs, conferences, training, and access to leading experts. 

A further $3.85 million in TechVoucher grant funding is available to fund collaborative research projects between SMEs and researchers, with approved projects awarded 50% of the total eligible project costs in matched funding, up to a maximum of $50,000. 

“This program, alongside the work we are doing in developing the NSW Innovation Blueprint, will support and help accelerate the rate of innovation in NSW.” 

Macquarie University Vice-Chancellor Professor S Bruce Dowton said the BBIP has directly supported the development of its newly launched DeepTech Incubator.    

“The BBIP funding has been critical in supporting Macquarie University’s ability to bring our DeepTech offering to fruition. In providing the high-value infrastructure that is in demand by deep tech and scaleup organisations, Macquarie University is helping New South Wales drive groundbreaking discoveries to successful commercial ventures for the benefit of Australia and the world.” 

SMEs are encouraged to reach out directly to delivery partners to discuss the Program opportunities. 

For the full list of delivery partners and to learn more please visit www.investment.nsw.gov.au/bbip

Sydneysiders are invited to share their ideas on plans for a new public park which will transform 20 hectares of Moore Park South into green open space for community recreation in one of the densest parts of the city.

The consultation asks the community to comment on how they would like to use the new park and how the existing golf offering at Moore Park could be reimagined.

The Discussion Paper released by the NSW Government today outlines the plan to transform an area on the western side of Moore Park Golf Course on the north of Dacey Avenue to public open space while retaining the 9-hole golf course, driving range and clubhouse.

Currently there are 690,000 people within a 5km radius of Centennial Parklands, with the population projected to rise to almost 790,000 in 2041. This makes it one of the densest residential communities in Australia, with the majority of these people living in apartments, townhouses or terraces.

The new park will increase public access to green space which is important to improving the quality of life of nearby residents.

As our cities and communities grow, Sydney still needs open spaces to support greater density in the right places. The NSW Government is committed to well-built, well-designed, and well-located homes close to public spaces for families to enjoy the outdoor environment.

To support this, the Government is acting on a need to deliver more public open space for inner-city residents with the current operating license of Moore Park Golf course set to expire in 2026.

Consultation will be open until 10 April 2024 and will include a series of pop-up information sessions in various locations throughout March.

Get more information on the Centennial Parklands wesbite.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“The NSW Government has prepared this Discussion Paper so that feedback from all communities and stakeholders can help shape the future of the new public park at Moore Park South.

“Parks are places for our diverse communities to gather, relax, exercise and connect with country. They can provide a cheap and fun outing with family and friends.

“This plan aims to strike a balance, ensuring the needs of our rapidly growing inner-city communities are met, while also retaining and reimagining golf in Moore Park.”

“We understand the importance of providing equitable access to green space for our inner-city communities as Sydney continues to grow – no one should miss out on the benefits of a backyard.

“This Discussion Paper is an important step to addressing the needs of residents living in the city’s most densely populated suburbs while allowing golf to continue in Moore Park.

“I encourage everyone to get involved and have your say to help shape this important recreational space.”

A new online hub is set to help parents and carers navigate the first five years of their child’s life, offering information on cost-of-living support, as well as ensuring their children have the best start in life and are set up for success.

The NSW Labor Government today launched the Brighter Beginnings Parent and Carer Information Hub – a website to help parents, carers and families access Government services, rebates and support for their child, from pregnancy through to the start of primary school.

Previously, parents looking for information had to navigate across disparate NSW and Australian Government websites. The Brighter Beginnings Hub brings these resources together, allowing parents to access services and support relevant to their child’s age.

For the different stages of pregnancy and a child’s life, the website includes advice and support services for health, mental health and wellbeing, nutrition, play and development, relationships, financial advice and any relevant payments or rebates.

The NSW Labor Government has prioritised the creation of this hub because the first five years of a child’s life are critical to outcomes later in life. During this period a child’s brain develops rapidly, with positive connections and experiences laying the foundations for a bright future.

With two in five children in NSW developmentally at risk or vulnerable before they start school, according to Australian Early Development Census data, the parent and carer hub is a vital part of the new support the Government is providing to bridge that gap.

This is just part of the NSW Government’s historic commitment to the early years, which includes a record $769 million investment to deliver 100 public preschools across NSW, with close to half of those new preschools in regional areas.

The NSW Government has also committed $60 million to build or upgrade 50 preschools on non-government school sites in areas of greatest educational need, and up to $29.4 million to expand the number of early childhood workers in NSW through a scholarship program, which has seen a record number of applications. The NSW Government has also provided $17 million to support capital works for early childhood services in areas of need.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said:

“This website is a great resource for new parents. The first five years of a child’s life are incredibly important for their future.

“There is a lot of information out there and it can be overwhelming for parents and carers.

“This is about cutting confusion and giving families the support and information they need during the formative years of their child’s life.”

NSW Minister for Health and Regional Health Ryan Park said:

“This government is committed to supporting the health of children, and their families from the beginning.

“We want to ensure all families are engaged with the healthcare system in those really critical early stages and years of life.

“There are simple things you can do with your child that will make a big difference in helping them grow and thrive, and this new hub will help make finding trusted information that much easier.

“Adding a precious baby to the family is a wonderful time, but it can also be really hard and stressful, this hub will help families access the support they need.”

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:

“Children are the future leaders of our state and the NSW Government is committed to providing all families with support and access to critical services and information.

“This digital solution does the heavy lifting for parents and carers to help them stay on track and give their children the best possible start in life.

“The Hub was designed in consultation with the whole community, from parents and carers to early childhood educators and health professionals, ensuring families are connected to the practical support they need.”

The NSW Labor Government is today announcing $275 million in grants under the Net Zero Manufacturing Initiative, to secure NSW as the place to develop and manufacture clean technology and create new jobs in the process.

The Net Zero Manufacturing Initiative will support workers, small businesses, manufacturers and innovators to take advantage of the transformation of our energy grid. The move to net zero will also transform our economy – and these grants will ensure NSW manufacturing is part of this revolution.

The initiative will deliver more local, secure jobs across the state, and support the diversification of our regional economies.

The investment areas are aligned to the opportunity areas identified through the NSW Decarbonisation Innovation 2023 Study, released by the Office of Chief Scientist and Engineer.

This includes future energy systems and storage, transportation, built environment, biomanufacturing, power-fuels including hydrogen and agricultural technologies.

The Net Zero Manufacturing Initiative will offer the following grants:

• Renewable Manufacturing – increasing capacity to make the components for renewable energy projects, which will alleviate supply chain constraints and increase local content capability.For example, projects could include constructing a brand-new facility for the manufacture of solar cells, or supply chain parts for renewable energy transmission.
• Clean Technology Innovation – helping businesses get scalable low-emission technologies, market-ready.For example, prototypes of next generation residential batteries, or new laboratory equipment that can test a material’s ability to store hydrogen atoms.
• Low Carbon Product Manufacturing – establishing industrial facilities and manufacturing capabilities that can take advantage of investment in new and emerging low carbon industries.For example, building a new facility for the manufacture of low-carbon laminate timber, or implementing a new production line within an existing biomass facility for manufacturing bio-diesel.

The initiative will focus on already lab-proven technologies and the manufacturing of market-ready products that are ready to be scaled up and rolled out across NSW.

This will support NSW’s 5 Renewable Energy Zones and hydrogen hubs, giving them access to more materials produced in NSW.

These grants open to the public on Monday 26 February 2024.

To check eligibility and apply go to the NSW Climate and Energy Action website.

Premier Chris Minns said:

“The Net Zero Manufacturing Initiative offers funding for small and medium businesses wanting to pilot new technology within their premises.

“These grants will bolster local manufacturing in the renewables and clean-technology industries, ultimately delivering more local, secure jobs.

“This is all about supporting and backing NSW businesses, manufacturers and innovators to develop homegrown technology and products right here in the state, and securing the jobs and skills we need for a renewable energy future.”

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said:

“NSW is undergoing a transformation of our energy grid, and this will also transform our economy.

“There are incredible opportunities for small, medium and large businesses to be a part of this.

“These grants are all about ensuring NSW manufacturing is part of this revolution. They will lead to new secure, long-term jobs that are good for the planet but also build wealth in local communities and give NSW security and sovereignty of the renewable energy supply chain.”

Minister for Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement Courtney Houssos said:

“The NSW Labor Government is committed to rebuilding our domestic manufacturing industry.

“The government can play a key role as a convenor and catalyst for the renewable industry.

“For every one job in manufacturing, three-and-a-half other jobs are sustained in the supply chain. We want those secure, well-paid manufacturing jobs to be in NSW.”

More communities across NSW will have access to up-to-date government information with an increased focus on multicultural and First Nations media outlets.

More than 190 languages are spoken at home across NSW, including Mandarin, Arabic, Cantonese and Vietnamese.

NSW also hosts almost 90 independent multicultural and Aboriginal publications and 210 radio programs, spoken in more than 56 languages, that are trusted sources of information for many linguistically and culturally diverse communities.

As part of its commitment to greater inclusion across government services, the NSW Government undertook a review of government advertising practices in the multicultural sector.

All 10 recommendations of the 2023 Multicultural Media and Policy Review Report, released today, have been adopted. The recommendations include:

• Elevating the required expenditure targeting multicultural and First Nations communities in government information campaigns from 7.5 percent to 9 percent
• Implementing more robust data collection and reporting practices to enhance understanding of media consumption behaviour within NSW multicultural and First Nations communities
• Increasing the total number of languages targeted across advertising campaigns to ensure broader reach and representation
• Annual reporting on multicultural and Aboriginal advertising spend.

The review was completed by the Department of Customer Service and Multicultural NSW and involved consultation with multicultural media outlets and government agencies.

Read the full report and recommendations

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:

“This report marks an important step forward in our drive for a more inclusive approach to government communications.

“The increased focus on distributing information through independent multicultural and First Nations media will help ensure government agencies are sharing important messages with the diverse communities of NSW.

“The detailed findings of this review provide a roadmap for the NSW Government to build further understanding, transparency and effectiveness of its multicultural advertising practices.”

Minister for Multiculturalism Stephen Kamper said:

“NSW has one of the most culturally, linguistically, and religiously diverse populations in the country with one in four people speaking a language other than English at home, so it is crucial NSW Government information resonates with every community.

“NSW Government advertising campaigns should be targeted to reach all communities with important messages. This was highlighted during COVID-19, where community safety relied on effective communications to all NSW residents.”

The NSW Opposition is calling on the Minns Labor Government to guarantee that Sydney Metro West will open on time in 2032.
 
Following the Metro Review, the Minns Labor Government announced a two-year delay of Sydney Metro West to 2032 commenting “The project will be reset to a more sustainable timeline, with the project expected to be completed by 2032.”
 
This morning in Budget Estimates embattled Minister for Transport Jo Haylen walked the commitment back, referring to the delivery date as only an ‘ambition’ and failed to provide any guarantees on the date or further information on when the project will be complete.
 
The position follows Premier Chris Minns’ admission earlier this week that the MOU with the Australian Turf Club, which includes a possible new station along the Sydney Metro West at Rose Hill may not eventuate. 
 
In farcical scenes, Jo Haylen also admitted she had not seen the MOU signed by her Government prior to attending the press conference for the announcement. 
 
Shadow Minister for Transport Natalie Ward commented “This is Labor 101, promise infrastructure and then delay after delay.
 
“Chris Minns promised to deliver Sydney Metro West before the election, then delayed it and now his Transport Minister is saying promises on delivery dates are only ‘ambitions’.
 
“The only things that is clear is that taxpayer’s ambition for a Labor government’s infrastructure agenda will be disappointed time and time again.”
 
“It is farcical that the Transport Minister can announce something without having seen it, what confidence can commuters have, if the Minister responsible is kept in the dark on her own projects.”

Celebrations for the 2024 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival will continue well into the night with licensed venues in NSW granted Special Event Extended Trading to kick on into the early hours.

Eligible venues across both inner Sydney and the city’s east will be able to trade later this weekend for the Bondi Beach Party and Sissy Ball. Extended trading hours will also apply for the Mardi Gras parade on Saturday, 2 March.                                                                                                               

As the year progresses, the NSW Government expects to list additional special events, further enriching NSW’s nightlife and cultural offerings across the regions.

Find out more about the full list of special events and more information on extended trading

Find out more about the NSW Government’s Vibrancy reforms

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

“Mardi Gras brings tens of thousands of visitors to the city from around the state, across the country and overseas to join in the celebration.

“Every year, the Mardi Gras parade transforms Oxford Street and the surrounding precincts. It’s a wonderful embodiment of the intentions behind the NSW Government’s Vibrancy reforms.

“Special event extended trading will provide more options for people to enjoy our live music and celebrate together for longer.”

Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said:

“Local bars and clubs play a vital role in our community, especially in Sydney’s inner and eastern suburbs.”

“The NSW Government is committed to creating additional opportunities for hospitality venues during special events.

“These extended trading hours will help facilitate great experiences for patrons, with a wider array of options to enjoy sporting and cultural events.”

Special Events and Related Conditions

‘Relevant venues’ includes Hotels, General Bars, Clubs, Small Bars and Dedicated Live Music & Performance Venues.

Special event	Extended trading period	Class of premises to which extended trading period applies
Mardi Gras – Bondi Beach Party	Midnight on Saturday 24 February 2024 to 1am on Sunday 25 February 2024	All eligible licensed premises in Waverley, Bondi, Bondi junction, North Bondi in the Waverley local government area
Mardi Gras – Sissy Ball	Midnight on Saturday 24 February 2024 to 1am on Sunday 25 February 2024	All eligible licensed premises in Sydney, Darlinghurst, Surry Hills, Potts Point in the Sydney local government area and Paddington in the Woollahra local government area
Sydney Mardi Gras Parade	Midnight on Saturday 2 March 2024 to 1am Sunday 3 March 2024	All eligible licensed premises in Sydney, Darlinghurst, Surry Hills, Potts Point in the Sydney local government area and Paddington in the Woollahra local government area

The NSW Government welcomes the newest appointments to the Dust Disease Board, who will give new focus and perspective to the allocation of grant funding for research and support services for people affected by dust diseases.

Minister for Industrial Relations and Minister for Work, Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis appointed three new Board members, Ms Kate Cole OAM, Mr Peter Tighe and Professor Emeritus Malcom Sim AM.

Minister Cotsis has reappointed Board members, Professor Sanchia Aranda, Professor David Currow FAHMS, Ms Sylvia Kidziak AM, Mr Ray Petty, Ms Natasha Flores. Ms Sherri Hayward and Mr John Walsh AO (Chair) continue their appointments to the Board.

The Dust Diseases Board, which is a scheme within icare, has been funding grants since 1983 with the aim of reducing the risk of dust diseases and improving outcomes for people who have a dust disease, and their families.

A total of 55 grants with a funded value of over $13 million were approved by the Dust Diseases Board between 2016 and 2023.

Board members include representation from: employers; employees; support, advocacy or awareness groups or organisations; persons involved in research into dust diseases or in academic matters relating to dust diseases; health professionals; and an independent chairperson.

Minister for Industrial Relations and Minister for Work, Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said:

“I’m really pleased to appoint Peter Tighe to the Dust Disease Board, who has been a staunch advocate for trade workers coming into contact with asbestos. It’s important to have a broad cross-section of representation on the board.

“Kate Cole OAM is a health industry expert, who will bring further workplace prevention perspectives to the board, thanks to her work as an occupational hygienist who specialises in the prevention of dust diseases like silicosis.

“Professor Malcolm Sim AM has worked in research fields relating to dust diseases in the workplace for more than 30 years, including at Monash University’s School of Public Health & Preventive Medicine. His expertise in this field will be invaluable.

“I want to thank the re-appointed and continuing board members for their continued service to address dust diseases affecting workers in New South Wales, and for their dedication to public service.

“Finally, I want to thank the outgoing members, Ms Abha Devasia, Ms Merylese Mercieca and Mr Barry Robson for their hard work during their tenure. Their important contribution to the administration of the board is greatly appreciated.”

Expressions of interest have opened for the appointment of a President and Deputy Presidents for the new Industrial Court of New South Wales.

The Industrial Relations Amendment Act 2023 delivered on the NSW Government’s commitment to end the wages cap and provide essential workers access to a fair and independent umpire.

The Industrial Relations Commission and the new court will be the central industrial tribunal and court for hearing all NSW Government industrial relations matters, setting remuneration and other conditions of employment, resolving industrial disputes and work, health and safety (WHS) matters.

The Industrial Court will be a superior court of record with equivalent status to the Supreme Court and the Land and Environment Court.

To be eligible for appointment as President of the Industrial Court, a candidate must be an Australian lawyer with at least seven years’ experience or currently hold or have held a judicial office in Australia.

The judges will be appointed by the Governor of NSW on the recommendation of the Attorney General. The appointments will be on a full-time basis until retirement age.

Minister for Industrial Relations, Sophie Cotsis said:

“We promised meaningful industrial relations reform, and this is being delivered.

“The blunt instrument of the former government’s approach has been replaced by genuine, meaningful bargaining overseen by a fair and independent court and commission.

Attorney General Michael Daley said:

“The Labor Government is taking time to conduct a national search for the best people to lead and re-establish the Industrial Court in NSW. Working people in NSW deserve nothing less.

“The new Industrial Relations Court will help ensure that our hard-working paramedics, nurses, school teachers and admin staff, emergency service workers and police are paid appropriately.”