Category: NSW News

Bilateral opportunities between NSW and Tokyo have been strengthened today with the signing of two significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoU).

In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the NSW-Tokyo Sister State Agreement, the Premier and the Governor of Tokyo, Her Excellency Ms Koike Yuriko, signed an updated agreement solidifying a continued partnership. 

It also marks Her Excellency Ms Koike Yuriko’s first official visit to NSW.

The first MoU marks a renewed commitment to progress and strengthen existing ties in the areas of education, sports, sustainable city planning, and encompasses new areas of commitment around the clean economy transition and liveability.

The second MoU aims to further enhance collaboration around the energy transition, focusing on hydrogen.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said:

“We have a long-standing relationship with Tokyo, one which is underpinned by shared values and a long history of cooperation.

“Our Sister State Agreement was first signed in 1984 by then-Premier Neville Wran, and to this day is one of our state’s longest-standing and most highly regarded partnerships. 

“Signing an updated MoU today signifies our commitment to renewed areas of cooperation and to our ongoing collaboration with one of our largest Indo-Pacific partners.”

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said:

“Global competition for hydrogen market share, supply chains and expertise continues to grow and we need to make sure NSW is at the forefront of discussions and opportunities.

“This partnership will open doors for bilateral investment opportunities and further enhance NSW’s position as a growing hydrogen leader.”

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“Japan is our second-largest trading partner and it’s home to the world’s largest metropolitan city, Tokyo. This is a critical trade and investment partner for NSW.

“NSW is a part of the global battle to attract new investment and to tap new markets for our world class products and services, this agreement is an opportunity to do even more to give NSW an edge.”

Governor of Tokyo, Her Excellency Ms Koike Yuriko said:

“Since the establishment of a friendship state relationship in 1984, NSW and Tokyo have engaged in cooperation and exchange in various areas.

“It is truly a pleasure to be able to visit NSW in this very special year, which marks the 40th anniversary of our friendship state relationship, to meet with Premier Minns. And, I am very pleased that we were able to sign an agreement such as this MoU.

“All of the exchange and interaction that has taken place between our states thus far is bearing fruit in the form of today’s MoU. And, I look forward to the further development of our relationship with NSW.”

The NSW Government has introduced new legislation that will remove a major roadblock to council de-amalgamations and ensure local democracy is enshrined in the decision-making process.

The amendments to the Local Government Act 1993, introduced to Parliament today, will provide a new legal pathway for NSW councils seeking to demerge, including those that already have de-amalgamation proposals under consideration.

The amendments repeal the legally flawed section 218CC of the Act and replaces it with a clear and democratic process.

This follows years of failed policy making by the former government that left councils across NSW in limbo and failed to take into account the budgetary impacts for NSW taxpayers on proposed de-amalgamations.

Under the changes, councils wishing to de-amalgamate must develop a robust business case upfront. This must consider the financial impacts and council’s ability to fund de-amalgamation, long-term strategic plans and the service delivery capacity of the new demerged councils.

Councils will also be required to undertake community consultation on the business case.

Upon receipt from a Council, the Minister must forward a business case to the NSW Local Government Boundaries Commission.

Following a subsequent independent review by the NSW Local Government Boundaries Commission, the Minister may then approve a constitutional referendum with a compulsory vote, which would require majority support from local electors to proceed with a de-amalgamation.

In addition, the Government’s Bill provides transition arrangements for councils which have already been approved for demerger by the Minister.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig:

“The forced amalgamation of NSW councils was a failed and expensive experiment. 

“While the NSW Government strongly supports a clear process for councils and communities to exercise their democratic right to pursue de-amalgamation, we also have to be realistic about some of the challenges this brings.

“It’s why one of my main priorities as Local Government Minister has been to find a way to remove the roadblocks posed by the existing demerger process, and give communities the opportunity to decide.

“These amendments the Government has introduced provide a clear path forward for councils wishing to de-amalgamate, providing much more clarity for current and future proposals.

“However, it’s essential that local democracy is enshrined in the decision-making process so that councils and communities are fully informed of the financial and other implications of de-amalgamation.

“The amendments we have introduced are more pragmatic than other legislative proposals being put to Parliament and ensure de-mergers can be effectively managed by councils and that any new councils are financially sustainable.”

Bilateral opportunities between NSW and Tokyo have been strengthened today with the signing of two significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoU).

In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the NSW-Tokyo Sister State Agreement, the Premier and the Governor of Tokyo, Her Excellency Ms Koike Yuriko, signed an updated agreement solidifying a continued partnership. 

It also marks Her Excellency Ms Koike Yuriko’s first official visit to NSW.

The first MoU marks a renewed commitment to progress and strengthen existing ties in the areas of education, sports, sustainable city planning, and encompasses new areas of commitment around the clean economy transition and liveability.

The second MoU aims to further enhance collaboration around the energy transition, focusing on hydrogen.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said:

“We have a long-standing relationship with Tokyo, one which is underpinned by shared values and a long history of cooperation.

“Our Sister State Agreement was first signed in 1984 by then-Premier Neville Wran, and to this day is one of our state’s longest-standing and most highly regarded partnerships. 

“Signing an updated MoU today signifies our commitment to renewed areas of cooperation and to our ongoing collaboration with one of our largest Indo-Pacific partners.”

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said:

“Global competition for hydrogen market share, supply chains and expertise continues to grow and we need to make sure NSW is at the forefront of discussions and opportunities.

“This partnership will open doors for bilateral investment opportunities and further enhance NSW’s position as a growing hydrogen leader.”

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“Japan is our second-largest trading partner and it’s home to the world’s largest metropolitan city, Tokyo. This is a critical trade and investment partner for NSW.

“NSW is a part of the global battle to attract new investment and to tap new markets for our world class products and services, this agreement is an opportunity to do even more to give NSW an edge.”

Governor of Tokyo, Her Excellency Ms Koike Yuriko said:

“Since the establishment of a friendship state relationship in 1984, NSW and Tokyo have engaged in cooperation and exchange in various areas.

“It is truly a pleasure to be able to visit NSW in this very special year, which marks the 40th anniversary of our friendship state relationship, to meet with Premier Minns. And, I am very pleased that we were able to sign an agreement such as this MoU.

“All of the exchange and interaction that has taken place between our states thus far is bearing fruit in the form of today’s MoU. And, I look forward to the further development of our relationship with NSW.”

Retailers across the city of Sydney and south east Sydney have been targeted in a joint operation to crack down on the illegal sale of nicotine e-cigarettes (vapes).

NSW Health inspectors and NSW Police officers, working with officers from the Therapeutic Goods Administration, conducted 60 raids between 29 January and 2 February 2024.

The most recent raids seized 30,000 nicotine e-cigarettes, 118,000 cigarettes, 45kg of flavoured and loose-leaf tobacco and 284 containers of nicotine pouches worth with an estimated street value of over $1.1 million. This brings the total estimated street value of seized illegal vaping and tobacco products across NSW, since 1 July 2020 to more than $31.6 million.

Vaping products containing nicotine are only available when prescribed by a medical practitioner or nurse practitioner. and can only be legally dispensed from a pharmacy in Australia with a valid prescription.

For all other retailers in NSW, the sale of e-cigarettes or e-liquids containing nicotine is illegal. This also includes online sales. The maximum penalty for illegally selling them is $1650 per offence, 6-months in prison or both, under the Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 1966.

Retailers and individuals can also be prosecuted for selling e-cigarette products to minors, with maximum penalties:

• for individuals, up to $11,000 for a first offence, and up to $55,000 for a second or subsequent offence
• for corporations, up to $55,000 for a first offence, and up to $110,000 for a second or subsequent offence.

Once the vaping reforms are fully implemented later this year, tobacconists, vape shops and convenience stores will no longer be able to lawfully sell any type of vape. It’s important that retailers take action now to minimise financial losses and ensure they comply with the new rules.

Under Commonwealth Therapeutic Goods legislation, the TGA has issued 190 infringement notices totalling $1.71 million to 42 entities to date. A fine for illegal advertising, import or supply is currently, per offence, $3756 for an individual and $18,780 for a corporation. Court penalties can exceed $10 million and include jail terms. See TGA’s Information about infringement notices for more information.

NSW Health launched the ‘Every Vape is a Hit to Your Health’ campaign last week to encourage young people to consider the proven health harms of vaping.

This was in addition to the first meeting of the National Vaping Working Group, co-chaired by NSW Health Secretary, Susan Pearce AM, which is overseeing development and implementation of the national enforcement framework and brings together health and enforcement agencies from across Australia.

NSW Minister for Health Ryan Park said:

“The NSW Government committed $6.8 million over 3 years in the budget to invest in a crackdown on the sale of illegal vapes and increase support for young people who are addicted to vaping. We are delivering on that commitment.

“Vapes are not a safe alternative to smoking and we are doing everything we can to educate young people on the harms of vaping and to protect them from those same harms.

“More evidence continues to come to light about the dangers associated with vapes. They aren’t innocent flavoured water, they contain harmful chemicals which can also be found in weed killer and antifreeze.

“Officers have been finding some retailers have placed products in hidden rooms behind fake walls and in secret panels and drawers to hide the devices, but we have and will continue to find them.

“If you think a tobacco or e-cigarette retailing law has been broken by a retailer in NSW, you can report this via the NSW Health website.

“NSW Health will continue to work closely with our Federal counterparts and NSW Police to take the action needed to prevent vaping becoming the next public health emergency for generations to come.”

Federal Minister for Health Mark Butler said:

“Vape products are deliberately marketed to our children. We have seen that kids buy vapes from other kids at school which is a significant concern for both current and future health and wellbeing.

“The Australian Government is stamping out ways that anyone can access these harmful products by reforming the regulation of vapes, including removing loopholes in existing laws, and increasing enforcement in cooperation with states and territories.”

“On 1 January 2024, the first stage of our reforms made the importation of single use disposable vapes illegal, except in very limited circumstances.”

“Stronger controls on the importation, manufacture, supply and advertising of vapes will be progressively implemented over 2024.” 

“The Therapeutic Goods Administration will continue to work with NSW Health and Australian Border Force to stamp out the illegal importation and supply of vapes under Commonwealth and state and territory law.”

The NSW Government says several deaths at workplaces over the past week serve as a sad reminder to employers and businesses about safety.

In 2022, there was approximately 1 workplace fatality a week in NSW but in the past 4 days 5 people have died at NSW workplaces, including:

• On 29 January, a 77-year-old man was visiting a factory in Griffith where he was struck by a forklift. The man was rushed to hospital where he died in the following days.
• On 31 January, a 28-year-old man died after falling when he was electrocuted conducting air conditioner repairs in Engadine.
• On 31 January, a 51-year-old man died after he lost control of a side-by-side all-terrain vehicle and was thrown while on a cotton farm in Narromine.
• On 1 February, a truck driver was located unresponsive on the ground of a loading bay in Dubbo.
• SafeWork is also investigating a 1 February fatal motorbike incident on a property 120km east of Tibooburra.

SafeWork has also been notified of several workplace incidents which resulted in serious injuries including an incident on 27 January where a construction worker fell around 3-4 metres from a scaffold in Eastwood, resulting in serious head injuries.

Business owners must ensure workers, especially those involved in high-risk areas such as working at heights, electrical and moving plant and machinery, are properly trained and instructed on how to do their job safely.

Workers who have concerns about workplace health and safety can anonymously contact SafeWork on 13 10 50 or through the Speak Up Save Lives app. 

SafeWork has developed a toolkit for business owners so they can ensure they have workplaces that promote effective work health and safety.

Further details about workplace safety including working with electricity, forklifts, farm safety and working at heights in construction can be found on the SafeWork NSW website.

Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said:

“Five deaths in 4 days is a tragedy and my condolences are with families, friends and colleagues of those who have sadly lost their lives.

“Following a well-deserved break, employees should feel they can come back to work and be safe.

“Business owners must ensure their employees are always practicing safe work practices, and, as we head into February, these deaths serve as a tragic reminder to make sure workplaces are up to date with safety equipment and compliance.”

Planning for one of the biggest economic development projects undertaken in Australia, the Bradfield City Centre, has taken a major step forward with the draft Master Plan now available for community feedback.

The Bradfield City Centre Master Plan sets out a framework for future development within the new 114-hectare city, five times the size of Barangaroo, at the heart of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis.

The Master Plan will position Bradfield City Centre as a centre for innovation, education, and skills development in the heart of Western Sydney.

It is expected to deliver 20,000 direct jobs and is positioned to emerge as Australia’s premier hub for advanced and emerging industries. It is expected to also create up to 10,000 new homes for the people of Western Sydney.

The proposal contains all key areas for a new city, including homes, streets and roads, city blocks, parks and open space, commercial and retail precincts, and, crucially the strategies to deliver the required infrastructure.

The development is backed by a more than $1 billion investment from the NSW Government and is anticipated to unlock billions more in private investment.

If approved, the Master Plan will outline a staged approach to more than 2 million square metres gross floor area of development across the city centre, located on the doorstep of the new Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport.

While the Aerotropolis and new Metro line are substantially underway, the draft Master Plan for Bradfield City Centre marks a significant milestone after a lack of coordination and years of inaction under the previous Liberal National Government.

Despite the previous government’s lack of planning, development has now begun in Bradfield with construction underway including the first stage of a new Advanced Manufacturing and Research Facility (AMRF), with electronics giant Hitachi, an advanced industry hub, due to open this year.

This exhibition represents the government “getting its skates on” to provide the vision to establish and grow Bradfield into a world-class city in line with the planned opening of Western Sydney International Airport in 2026.

Following the exhibition period and if approved, the Department expects that finalisation could occur by mid-2024.

Acting Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said:

“Western Sydney is the third largest regional economy in Australia, with one of the most rapidly growing populations.

“Providing better paid, highly-skilled jobs close to where people live, with the right infrastructure, is key to improving the lives of people in Western Sydney.

“This Master Plan shows how investment in the area surrounding the new airport will drive growth and better opportunities for all Western Sydney.

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform Western Sydney and can only be realised if we work together to ensure it benefits everyone.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“This Master Plan is a draft blueprint for a world-class city that will support Western Sydney Airport, attract investment, house thousands of people, and create thousands of jobs.

“This is the first Master Plan to be publicly exhibited after progressing through the new Aerotropolis master-planning pathway and it’s critical we hear directly from the community and stakeholders as we lay the groundwork for significant infrastructure plans.

“Bradfield City Centre could deliver 10,000 new homes in coming years, making a significant contribution to more, and more diverse, housing supply in Western Parkland City.

“This is about making sure people have a say in how Bradfield best caters for the future needs and desires of residents, workers, and visitors.”

Find out more and have your say about the Bradfield City Centre master plan

The NSW Government is today shining a spotlight on the outstanding contributions of women across the state with the announcement of the finalists of the NSW Women of the Year Awards 2024.

The awards celebrate the role models who challenge inequality, innovate and inspire.

Since 2012, the annual awards have recognised the women and girls whose determination, bravery, skill and passion have inspired their communities and others to achieve great things.

There are six award categories in the 2024 program, including the Premier’s NSW Woman of Excellence Award.

The NSW Women of the Year Awards recipients will be revealed at a ceremony on Thursday 7 March at the International Convention Centre, Sydney.

The awards are the centrepiece of NSW Women’s Week 2024, which will be held from Monday 4 March to Sunday 10 March.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said:

“On behalf of NSW, I congratulate all our finalists.

“You are incredible individuals who have made an enormous contribution to communities in every corner of our state.

“It’s particularly pleasing to see the breadth of work on display, which is representative of our wonderfully diverse and highly dedicated communities.”

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

“I’m delighted to announce we had a record 420 nominations this year, each and every one showcasing the hard work, dedication and passion of women and girls across NSW.

“Women and girls are making a significant impact in advancing gender equality across different industries, from science to education, health, industry, culture and community.

“We want to continue to empower the next generation to be limitless in delivering positive changes through fortitude in their fields of expertise.

“We can only achieve this by shining a light on the contributions and achievements of women and giving them the recognition they truly deserve.”

The Women of the Year Awards 2024 finalists are:

Premier’s NSW Woman of Excellence

• Prof. Clara Chow AM – Sydney
• Jessica Hill – Sydney
• Cara Varian – Sydney
• Prof. Adriana Vergés – Sydney
• Commissioner Carlene York APM – Wollongong

NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year

• Kylie Captain – South- West Sydney
• Aliethea Cutmore – Northern Tablelands
• Carly Stanley – Sydney
• Dr. Casey Sullivan – Tamworth
• Deborah Swan – Central Coast

NSW Community Hero

• Seini Afeaki – Western Sydney
• Farzana Farzana – Sydney
• Monica Mudge – South Coast
• Anna Noon – Lake Macquarie

Regional Woman of the Year

• Dr. Skye Charry – Murrumbateman
• Tsukasa Hiraoka – Bourke
• Nicole Kiss OAM – Cowra
• Theresa Mitchell – Tweed Heads
• Rochelle Olsen – Dubbo

NSW Young Woman of the Year

• Noor Azizah – Sydney
• Darian Brooker – Southern Sydney
• Shannon Fox – Wollongong
• Kupakwashe Matangira – Lake Macquarie
• Sarah Williams – Newcastle

Ones to Watch

• Parisa Azad – South-West Sydney
• Aarohi Bansal – Sydney
• Gezel Bardossi – Sydney
• Sophie Berude – Lake Macquarie
• Lola Fotheringham – Sydney
• Bronte Gibson – Hunter Valley
• Matilda Gibson – Hunter Valley
• Abbie Jane – Broken Hill
• Salma Kareem – Sydney
• Izabelle Kelly – Dubbo

The Local Women of the Year Awards is a separate program which runs alongside the Women of the Year Awards. The Local Woman of the Year Awards is an annual program that provides MPs with the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the contributions of a local woman in their electorate. Recipients of these awards will also be recognised at the Awards ceremony.

Read more about the awards and finalists

One hundred and fifty outstanding apprentices from across NSW have been awarded a life-changing Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarship, which provides crucial support to individuals who are facing hardship.

The $15,000 scholarship, spread across 3 years, aims to provide vital support to individuals who have demonstrated a strong aptitude for vocational education and training in difficult circumstances.

The 2024 cohort of winners includes 45 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander apprentices, 67 learners with disabilities, 46 women excelling in non-traditional trades, and 64 mature-aged apprentices, with 116 of the recipients coming from regional NSW.

Notably, many of these apprentices represent multiple equity groups, showcasing the program’s steadfast commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

Winners include 19-year-old, second year apprentice engineer, Aston Pritchard from Sydney. His story exemplifies resilience and dedication in the face of personal challenges.

Aston’s commitment to his apprenticeship despite having to care for his mother is truly commendable.

For Aston, it’s particularly promising that he can use the funds to alleviate the cost-of-living pressures and invest in essential items for his education and skill development.

The financial support all winners will receive will undoubtedly make a positive impact on their lives.

All recipients’ stories underscore the importance of recognising and supporting individuals who demonstrate resilience and commitment in pursuing their goals despite adversities. It’s inspiring to see programs or initiatives that contribute to the well-being and success of individuals facing challenges in their personal and educational journeys.

Launched in 2014, the program is open to registered apprentices in metropolitan and regional NSW and includes school-based apprentices.

The scholarship is named after former NSW Board of Vocational Education and Training chair, Bert Evans, who developed a strong appreciation for apprenticeship training after beginning his career in the manufacturing industry.

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

“Congratulations to all recipients of the scholarship. Our government is so proud of each and every one of you, and we are so pleased to be able to support you as you undertake your apprenticeship.

“This financial commitment by the Minns Labor Government, totalling $2.25 million over 3 years, is an investment in the future success of these apprentices and the growth of our skilled workforce.

“These apprentices represent the future of our skilled workforce, breaking barriers and contributing to a more diverse and dynamic industry.

“This initiative is a fitting legacy to Bert Evans, who dedicated his life to promoting vocational education as a foundation for success.”

Thousands of public school students across NSW are walking through the gates to new and upgraded learning facilities today, as day one of the 2024 school year officially kicks off.

The NSW Government has delivered 18 new and upgraded schools in time for the start of term one, including a brand new public school in South West Sydney, a brand new high school in southern NSW, a new relocated school on the South Coast, 3 new temporary schools in Sydney’s growing North-West, and 12 schools that have had major upgrades – seven of which are in regional NSW.

This follows the NSW Government’s record investment in the 2023-24 NSW Budget of $3.5 billion to provide 24 new and 51 upgraded schools in Western Sydney as well as $1.4 billion for a pipeline of new and upgraded schools in regional NSW.

NSW Premier Chris Minns and Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car will today be joined by local MPs to officially open two brand new schools – welcoming students as they pass through the front gates for the very first time.

The Premier will join Member for Monaro and Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan to open the new Jerrabomberra High School in southern NSW. The new school will accommodate 500 students – with 24 classrooms, as well as a hall, library and canteen.

The NSW Government has also committed in the budget to the Stage 2 expansion of the high school, doubling its permanent capacity to 1,000 students across years 7 – 12 and delivering a further 18 classrooms.

The Deputy Premier will spend the morning in south-west Sydney with Member for Liverpool Charishma Kaliyanda, meeting with students and teachers at Gulyangarri Public School in Liverpool.

The new primary school features 20 classrooms, four special program rooms, four support rooms, a library, hall and covered outdoor learning area (COLA), with space for 640 students.

As part of the NSW Government’s commitment to deliver expanded access to early childhood education, an on-site public preschool will also be delivered at Gulyangarri, due to open later this year.

A full list of new and upgraded schools can be found below.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said:

“The NSW Labor government is committed to rebuilding essential services and addressing the school infrastructure backlog, with our recent education budget delivering a record investment for urgently needed new and upgraded schools across the state.

“We are delivering these facilities where they are needed most, and I’m proud to say that Jerrabomberra High School is one of seven new and upgraded schools opening in regional NSW today – with more on the way.

“This targeted investment in growing communities will ensure every student in NSW has access to a world class public education, no matter where they live.”

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

“Thousands of public school students across the state – from Bangalow to Ulladulla, Tallawong to Liverpool, will benefit from these wonderful new and upgraded schools, and the teachers working their magic inside the gates. 

“I am proud this Labor Government is delivering high quality public schools for NSW families, particularly for families in the growing parts of Western and South West Sydney.

“I know our new public schools will become cornerstones of growing communities for generations to come.”

Member for Monaro Steve Whan said:

“Today marks a significant milestone for the people of Jerrabomberra and reaffirms the NSW Government’s commitment to providing our young people with the tools they need to forge a successful career and life beyond school.

“I look forward to seeing what our kids will achieve thanks to this world class public high school.”

Member for Liverpool Charishma Kaliyanda said:

“I am proud to be part of a NSW Government that supports families building a community in Sydney’s southwest. Their dream of a public education for their children close to home, is now a reality.

“Today’s opening of Gulyangarri Public School – and the many other new and upgraded schools across the state – are a testament to this government’s commitment to investing in our children’s futures and providing them with the best learning opportunities possible.”

New and upgraded schools opening to students on Day 1, Term 1 2024

• Gulyangarri Public School (new school)
• Jerrabomberra High School (new school)
• Budawang School for Specific Purpose (new relocated school)
• Nirimba Fields Public School (new temporary school)
• Melonba High School (new temporary school)
• Tallawong Public School (new temporary school)
• Muswellbrook South Public School (upgrade)
• Liverpool West Public School (upgrade)
• Fort Street Public School (upgrade)
• Bletchington Public School (upgrade)
• Oran Park Public School (upgrade)
• John Palmer Public School (upgrade)
• Hastings Secondary College, Port Macquarie Campus (upgrade)
• Glenwood High School (upgrade)
• Mosman High School (upgrade)
• Seven Hills High School (upgrade)
• Millthorpe Public School (upgrade)
• Bangalow Public School (upgrade)

Improvements to governance in the State’s workers compensation system have driven the appointment of three directors to the workplace insurer, icare.

The board appointments follow an amendment to the State Insurance and Care Governance Act 2015 in July.

Mr John Walsh AO, a respected actuary, accomplished social policy leader and disability advocate, has been reappointed.

Ms Leah Fricke, a legal professional with extensive executive and board experience, including in the finance industry and on government boards, has been appointed a non-Executive Director.

Significantly, the change passed last year requires the icare board to include two directors nominated by worker and business bodies.

The Secretary of Unions NSW, Mr Mark Morey, has been appointed as the new employee representative.

Mr Morey has extensive board experience and a deep understanding of the needs of workers accessing the scheme, bringing a user focus for injured workers requiring icare’s services.

The appointment of an employer representative nominee director will occur upon expiry of an existing director term in mid to late 2024.

The size and cost of the icare board remains unchanged with eight non-executive directors.

Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis thanked outgoing director Michael Cameron for his service as Deputy Chair on the icare board, Chair of the Board Audit committee and for his contribution to the Board Risk committee and Technology and Data Strategy committee.

icare manages workers compensation for about 330,000 business and 3.4 million workers in NSW, with about 60,000 new claims each year.

Minister for Work Health and Safety, Sophie Cotsis said:

“These key appointments ensure we have the appropriate skills and experience on the icare board.

“Ms Fricke brings deep audit and risk experience which will be instrumental in steering icare through the strategic challenges it faces to achieve financial sustainability. Her regional background will support robust discussion.

“Mr Morey has a deep understanding of the needs of injured workers and will focus on ensuring those who experience injuries, accidents or ill-health are at the centre of the system.

“I am also pleased to announce the reappointment of Mr Walsh, an experienced social policy leader who continues to inspire with his dedication to ensuring those with a disability are supported in achieving the best possible quality of life outcomes.

“After 12 years of neglect at the hands of the former government, reforming icare won’t be quick or easy. But I am confident we are on the right trajectory”.