Category: NSW News

The first intercity Mariyung train takes to the tracks on the Blue Mountains Line today, bringing a new level of comfort, safety and improved reliability for passengers from Lithgow, through the mountains to Sydney.

Bound for Central Station, the first Mariyung on the line is due to leave Lithgow at 6.24am Monday.

This is a late-running departure of almost six years, based on the former Liberal-National government’s promise to have the new intercity train in service on the Blue Mountains Line by 2020.

It was the Blue Mountains Line that needed a hasty program of modifications to widen tunnels and expand train platforms to accommodate the Mariyung.

The total budget blew out from $2.8 billion to just under $4.1 billion due to the botched introduction by the Liberals.

The inaugural service is scheduled to stop at most stations along the Blue Mountains Line, including Penrith, Katoomba, Blacktown, Parramatta and Springwood. 

The Mariyung fleet will gradually replace the V-Sets that have served the Blue Mountains Line since the 1970s and have become a magnet for vandals and graffiti. The Mariyung has closed-circuit television systems throughout to deter anti-social behaviour.

The Mariyung offer spacious and comfortable two-by-two seating, a quieter, air-conditioned journey, luggage racks, and improved accessibility.  

The seating includes tray tables, arm rests, high seat backs and charging ports for mobile devices, and on-board digital information screens.  

Initial deployment will commence with both 10-car and 6-car train operations. The 10-car trains can seat 823 passengers while the 6-car trains can seat 500 passengers.

Blacktown, Linden, Leura, Hazelbrook, Blackheath and Faulconbridge are among the stations on the Blue Mountains line where platforms are not long enough for 10-carriage trains and doors on certain carriages at the front of the train and will not open at those.    

This is the second phase of the rollout of the Mariyung fleet. The Mariyung first entered service on the Central Coast and Newcastle Line on 3 December last year. The fleet will be rolled out on the South Coast Line in 2026.  

The introduction of the Mariyung will allow for the Oscar fleet, which debuted in December 2006, to be fully refurbished as it transitions to Suburban running.  

Minister for Transport John Graham said:   

“Let’s acknowledge the bleeding obvious here, that long-suffering Blue Mountains Line passengers waited far too long to see this new intercity train in service. Six years too long, in fact, due to the botched introduction overseen by the former government.

“The Blue Mountains Line was ground zero for this debacle when it became obvious to the Liberals that the trains they bought overseas were too wide for some tunnels in the Mountains and too long for a string of stations.

“The very good news is the Mariyung has arrived, and it will significantly improve the commute back and forth to Sydney for the communities along its length.

“As we focus on improving the reliability of the whole Sydney Trains system, introducing trains that are up to 50 years younger than the existing fleet can only be an improvement for this line.”

Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said:  

“Today marks a major step forward for regional transport in NSW.

“From Lithgow to Sydney, the Blue Mountains Line is a vital link for thousands of regional commuters. The new Mariyung trains will make those journeys safer, smoother and more enjoyable – connecting people to jobs, education and essential services.

“This rollout is about more than new trains, it’s about investing in regional infrastructure, creating local jobs, and ensuring our transport system meets the needs of communities outside the city.”

Member for Blue Mountains Trish Doyle said: 

“My community in the Blue Mountains has felt every long month and year as we waited on the new trains promised by the former government.

“My thanks to the railway workers and RTBU who insisted on attending to some serious initial deficiencies and concerns with the NIF design, to ensure passengers and crew can travel safely.

“The V-sets have served Blue Mountains train passengers with distinction, but we are very much ready for the new chapter on our intercity line.” 

Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown OAM said: 

“I know Penrith passengers are looking forward to enjoying the benefits of these modern trains, and I am looking forward to seeing these trains out on the tracks.  

“People of all abilities can now travel with confidence and independence on the Blue Mountains line, with dedicated spaces for wheelchairs, accessible toilets, and easier boarding.” 

Member for Blacktown, Stephen Bali said:  

“Rail commuters in Blacktown will experience a reliable, accessible and safe service on the Blue Mountains line starting from today.” 

“The state-of-the-art Mariyung intercity trains with their improved accessibility, safety, and amenities with provide a smoother and more comfortable service for Blacktown commuters.”  

Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis said: 

“Passengers travelling from Parramatta on the Blue Mountains line will have a more comfortable travelling experience for decades to come.  

“It’s fantastic that the new Mariyung trains have hit the tracks today. The upgraded fleet will make travelling a much more pleasant experience for Parramatta residents, and all that board that train.” 

Staff and students at Darcy Road Public School are returning to a transformed school on the first day of Term 4 which is nearly five times the size of the original school, following a fast-tracked completion of the major redevelopment.

This project, a Minns Labor Government election commitment, has seen nearly every existing building removed and replaced with brand new, state-of the-art facilities – the largest upgrade the school has seen since it opened in 1955. The original school hall will be retained, with an extension, refurbishment, and additional landscaping due for completion by late 2026.

This major upgrade increases the school’s permanent capacity from 255 to 1,000 students and will see all demountables removed from the site by the end of this year, freeing up more than 3,600 square metres, or eight basketball courts, of play space for the students.

Two new multi-storey buildings featuring 45 new permanent classrooms, new administration facilities, library, canteen and covered outdoor learning area (COLA) are now complete and open almost four months ahead of schedule.

For over a decade, the former Liberal National government neglected public schools in Western Sydney and failed to upgrade Darcy Road Public School, despite promising to do so. Before the upgrade, two thirds of the school’s student population were being taught in demountables – 13 of which were installed by the former government alone.

The upgrade to Darcy Road Public School is among 16 new schools and major upgrade projects being delivered across the greater Parramatta region, that will see more than 200 demountables removed and replaced with more than 300 new, permanent classrooms.

Projects being delivered in the greater Parramatta region include:

• Carlingford West Public School upgrade
• Cumberland High School upgrade
• Darcy Road Public School upgrade
• Dundas Public School upgrade
• Ermington West Public School upgrade and new public preschool
• Girraween Public School upgrade
• Melrose Park – new high school
• Melrose Park Public School redevelopment
• Newington Public School upgrade
• Northmead Public School upgrade
• Parramatta East Public School upgrade
• Rydalmere Public School upgrade
• Rydalmere East Public School upgrade
• Telopea Public School upgrade
• Wentworth Point Public School upgrade (Stage 2)
• Westmead Public School upgrade.

These upgrades will provide capacity for almost 7,000 additional students in the area.

The Minns Labor Government is also building three new public preschools in the Parramatta region, offering 280 places per week for the area’s youngest learners. The public preschools will be co-located with Melrose Park Public School, Ermington West Public School, and Oatlands Public School.

The NSW Government’s record $9 billion school infrastructure Budget for 2025-26 includes $3.9 billion for new and upgraded schools across Western Sydney.

Premier Chris Minns said:

“Students at Darcy Road Public School have been learning out of uncomfortable temporary facilities for far too long.

“Upgrading this 70-year-old school, adding brand new permanent classrooms and removing demountables will be a game changer for the school community.

“We want teachers and students to have access to high quality schools, and I am proud we’re delivering on that promise.”

Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning and Western Sydney Courtney Houssos said:

“The Minns Labor Government has fast-tracked and delivered world-class education facilities for the Darcy Road Public School community because we believe Western Sydney families deserve world-class education facilities.

“Demountables should only be used as a temporary measure, but under the former Liberal National government they’ve become a permanent fixture at far too many schools in Western Sydney and across the state.

“There’s more to do, and we are working hard to undo the mess left behind by the Liberals.

“With every teacher vacancy filled and every demountable removed, the Minns Labor Government is building better public schools for our children.”

Darcy Road Public School Principal Trudy Hopkins said:

“Our new classrooms, library, canteen and admin facilities are a game-changer for our students and staff – who now have the space and modern tools they need to achieve their best.

“Our students are excited to be learning out of their brand-new classrooms today and to have more play space at the school once all demountables are removed.

“This is an exciting milestone for our entire school community, and we look forward to the final stage of the upgrade nearing completion next year.”

Today, community leaders, experts and advocates joined NSW Minister for Women to discuss lived experience of menopause and perimenopause, and the importance of supportive workplaces.

In the lead up to World Menopause Day on 18 October, the NSW Government hosted this discussion panel, which featured:

• renowned menopause advocate Em Rusciano
• Dr Sarah White, CEO of Jean Hailes for Women’s Health
• Professor Elizabeth Hill, Deputy Director, Australian Centre for Gender Equality and Inclusion at Work
• Karen Willis OAM, Gender Equity Officer, Unions NSW

The panel discussed lived experiences of menopause and perimenopause in all areas of life, including women who experience menopause earlier than the average age of 51 due to medicine or surgery.

It covered the importance of addressing employee stigma, creating safe and inclusive workplaces, increasing manager awareness, as well as sharing initiatives on improving women’s overall health and wellbeing.

With more than three quarters of working women in Australia affected by perimenopause and menopause symptoms, this event is part of the Minns Labor Government’s work to raise awareness around this important women’s health issue.

The government provides several resources to support women and workplaces navigate the menopause transition, including the Menopause and Perimenopause Toolkit – a central resource containing information to support women, families, workplaces and health professionals.

It is easily accessible, gives women and employees confidence, enhances their understanding of treatment, and supports their autonomy by offering practical strategies for everyday challenges and managing symptoms at work. It includes:

• A downloadable menopause symptoms checklist, translated into eight languages, easy read and tailored for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women.
• Menopause videos that explain the symptoms of menopause and how they impact day-to-day life. Translated videos are also available.
• Employment resources for managers and employees.
• A podcast series exploring common symptoms and experiences.
• Guides for partners and families.

To learn more visit: Perimenopause and menopause toolkit

For women experiencing severe and complex menopause symptoms, the NSW Government has set up four Menopause Hubs around the state, with a multi-disciplinary team of specialists to provide holistic support. The Hubs are networked to a number of referral sites across New South Wales, improving access to specialist care. To learn more about menopause services, go to: Menopause services.

Minister for Women and Seniors, Jodie Harrison said:

“Menopause is a natural part of life, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood and under-discussed health transitions.

“This is despite the fact that most women – around 83 per cent – report at least one menopause symptom that affects their work. These symptoms can affect women’s lives, careers and retirement.

“This World Menopause Day, we’re creating space for open conversations, practical support and recognition of the diverse ways menopause affects women across New South Wales, particularly within the workplace.

“We need to continue the conversation about the impacts of menopause and make sure women are empowered to speak about it and access the appropriate supports.”

Dr Sarah White, CEO of Jean Hailes for Women’s Health, said:

“Jean Hailes’ National Women’s Health Survey found that 17 per cent of women aged 45 to 64 take an extended break from workforce participation due to illness. Menopause is a significant factor in this decision. We need to empower women with practical, evidence-based solutions so we don’t lose the incredibly valuable skills, knowledge and experience that women in midlife bring to the workplace.”

Em Rusciano, perimenopausal advocate and keynote speaker:

“Perimenopause hit me in my late 30s – much earlier than I ever expected. I thought it was a ‘later in life’ problem, but instead it’s been a brutal, seismic shift I was utterly unprepared for. And that’s exactly why I’m talking about it now: because menopause has been buried under shame and silence for generations. Puberty and pregnancy are resourced and respected; menopause deserves the same. Saying it out loud is how we peel back the shame and push the systems to finally catch up.”

The Minns Labor Government is planting the seeds for a new wave of primary production manufacturing across regional NSW, unveiling a prospectus designed to harvest the economic benefits of the growing plant-based protein sector.

This prospectus is part of the Government’s plans to strengthen regional economies, build new industries and drive jobs and investment.

The prospectus is aimed at metropolitan and international food manufacturers and is designed to encourage them to consider regional NSW as a base for their operations.

The prospectus highlights the competitive advantages regional NSW has including:

• Access to premium raw commodities suitable for plant-based protein food and beverage manufacturing with the ability to scale and meet growing demand
• Consumer market access with regional NSW ideally positioned and able to deliver goods to 81 percent of Australia’s domestic market overnight
• Skilled workforce with relevant educational backgrounds, export-ready ports, and affordable industrial land.
• Research and development ecosystem that actively encourages collaboration between researchers across universities, DPIRD, CSIRO, Government and agribusiness

The Prospectus also identifies five key regions particularly suited to plant-based protein manufacturing:  Riverina Murray, New England North West, Central West Orana, North Coast and Hunter Central Coast.

Advantages of these regions are identified in the “NSW regional location profiles” in the prospectus at Invest Regional NSW. 

The prospectus will be launched today in conjunction with AltProteins 25 conference in Sydney.

Plant-based protein manufacturing is the process of turning crops such as chickpeas, soybeans, lentils and grains into high-protein food products like meat alternatives, protein powders, dairy-free drinks and snacks without using any animal products.

The global population is set to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, meaning agricultural and food production will need to increase by up to 61 per cent.

Regional NSW produces millions of tonnes of plant protein crops each year, offering ideal conditions for manufacturers with strong market access, a skilled workforce and world-class research.

Developed by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development in partnership with Investment NSW, the prospectus also showcases government programs supporting industry growth, innovation and streamlined approvals for investors.

To view the NSW Plant-Based Protein Manufacturing Prospectus, visit: Invest Regional NSW. 

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:

“With more than 4,500 food and beverage manufacturing businesses and high-quality research and development facilities we have the skills and the infrastructure to turn high-quality crops into premium plant-based protein products.

“Regional NSW offers the ideal combination of resources and advantages, from efficient transport networks and export-ready ports to skilled workforces and affordable industrial land, creating a compelling case for investors and manufacturers.

“This prospectus is about building on those strengths to grow jobs, drive innovation and ensure NSW captures its share of a rapidly expanding global market for healthy, sustainable food.”

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“Trade is a key contributor to our economy and by backing innovative industries like plant-based manufacturing, we’re securing NSW’s place in the future of food.

“For government and industry alike the prospectus outlines the opportunities and benefits of investing in regional NSW and invites collaboration, attracts investment, and sets the tone for long-term success.

“This prospectus is a powerful tool for showcasing NSW’s strengths to the world, demonstrating our vision, our capabilities, and our commitment to sustainable growth whilst providing investors with clarity and confidence they need for opportunities.”

University of Sydney Professor of Legume Biology and Molecular Genetics Professor Brent Kaiser said:

“We’re seeing a major shift in how people think about food, from what they eat to how it’s produced. This is being driven by multiple factors, including changing dietary needs, and increasing awareness of health, sustainability, and climate in response to future population growth.

“By 2050, we’ll need to increase global agricultural crop calorie production by around 47–61% just to keep up. That’s a huge pressure point on the production of sustainable protein sources – the development of plant-based protein foods offer a big part of the solution.

“New South Wales is already an agricultural powerhouse. We have a $20 billion sector producing a lot of wheat, canola, legumes and horticulture products and more.

“The real value is transforming these commodity-driven products into value-added foodstuffs. We can add value here by transforming these crops into high quality, plant-based food and beverage products.”

Ben Furney Flour Mills CEO Sarah Furney said:

“Regional centres like Dubbo, where we produce flour and specialty milled products, offer the perfect environment for innovation and growth in the plant-based protein manufacturing space.

“With immediate access to grain supply, skilled labour and transport infrastructure, it’s benefits like these that make regional NSW an ideal base for advanced food manufacturing and allow businesses like ours to compete in a growing market.”

“Looking to the future, Ben Furney Flour Mills is investing in cutting-edge packaging and warehouse systems, expanding its Textured Vegetable Protein product line and continuing to grow its regional workforce.

“With a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and export growth, the company is positioning itself as a pioneer in alternative proteins and value-added food manufacturing.”

Sydney turned gold on Monday night as Diwali celebrations lit up the city, with the Opera House sails glowing in tribute to the Festival of Lights.

The lighting of the sails is part of the NSW Government’s annual Diwali event – first held in 2011 – at the Museum of Contemporary Art, bringing together 200 community members, faith leaders, and dignitaries.  

The evening was a vibrant celebration of colour, culture, and connection.

Diwali, or Deepavali, is celebrated across New South Wales by Hindu, Sikh, Jain and some Buddhist communities, and which signifies the power of light over darkness and good over evil.  

These communities continue to contribute immensely to New South Wales, where their positive impact across multiple areas of life enriches all of us.

Premier of NSW Chris Minns said:

“The symbolism of Diwali couldn’t be more relevant in our multicultural society than right now.

“One of Diwali’s messages is that good triumphs over evil, to come together in joy and unity, working together to overcome darkness and division.  

“On Monday night, we lit the sails of the Opera House in honour of Diwali and the communities that celebrate it.  

“The evening served as a reminder of NSW’s vibrant multiculturalism. and how celebrations like Diwali bring all different people and communities together, in a spirit of joy and unity.”

Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said:

“Diwali brings light, joy, and togetherness. It’s a time to honour tradition, celebrate community, and share in the warmth of connection.

“NSW is proud to celebrate alongside our communities and sends its warm wishes to all who mark this beautiful occasion.

“Diwali celebrations will be happening across the state, from Harris Park, Parramatta, Blacktown to Queanbeyan and Newcastle, and we encourage everyone to come along to celebrate.”  

Sydney’s train network is now less reliable than ever, leaving commuters stranded, frustrated and late. Under the Minns Labor Government, one in every ten trains has been late for almost two years straight.
 
Despite three budgets, three reports and two separate reviews, the Minns Labor Government has failed to fix the basics.
 
The latest figures obtained by the NSW Opposition through Budget Estimates show infrastructure-related defects on the rail network hit record highs between April and August this year. June alone saw 39,634 faults, followed by 38,932 in July and 38,912 in August.
 
While the former NSW Liberals and Nationals Government delivered world-class, transformative infrastructure that has changed the face of Sydney forever, Labor has shown no progress on what they deliver or do.
 
Piggy-backing on the hard work of the former government does not make you an originator. It shows a government with no ideas, no drive and no capacity to deliver its own vision for NSW.
 
Only the NSW Liberals and Nationals have the track record and the know-how to get NSW building again.
 
These figures expose a government that has chosen political spin over performance. With a Labor-appointed mate as the NSW Secretary of Transport, it stands to reason that Sydney Trains operates on a PR footing rather than a delivery footing.
 
Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said Labor’s obsession with image has replaced real management.
 
“Chris Minns promised better transport but has only delivered delays. Families are waiting longer because Labor is focused on PR, not performance. They inherited a world-class network and turned it into a reliability crisis,” Mr Speakman said.
 
Shadow Minister for Transport and Roads Natalie Ward said the Minns Labor Government puts politics before passengers.
 
“The Minns Government talks about accountability but delivers excuses. With a Labor insider running Transport, the focus is media management, not commuter outcomes. Sydney Trains has become a PR machine while commuters pay the price,” Ms Ward said.
 
The NSW Opposition is calling on the Minns Labor Government to prioritise investment in maintenance, reliability and performance to restore confidence in Sydney’s transport network and deliver the service commuters expect in a global city.

As students and teachers settle back into classrooms, the Minns Labor Government is copying the Coalition’s homework by falsely claiming Labor built the schools across Western Sydney to which they are returning.
 
The Premier and Acting Education Minister put out a media release this morning saying the area was “neglected” under the former government, when in fact more than $2 billion was invested in 50 new and upgraded school projects before the 2023 election.
 
Some of the projects Labor is trying to take credit for includes Darcy Road Public School, Carlingford West, Cumberland, Girraween, Melrose Park, Parramatta East, Rydalmere, Telopea, Wentworth Point and Westmead, which were all funded and approved by the Liberals and Nationals.
 
Piggy-backing on the hard work of the former government does not make you an originator. It shows a government with no ideas, no drive and no capacity to deliver its own vision for NSW.
 
Only the NSW Liberals and Nationals have the track record and the know-how to get NSW building again.
 
Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said the Government has no ideas, no drive and no capacity to deliver its own vision for the state.
 
“The Minns Labor Government is claiming credit for projects it did not start, that were funded by the former government that believed in building for the future. You don’t earn credibility by cutting ribbons on someone else’s work. You earn it by delivering your own,” Mr Speakman said.
 
Shadow Education Minister Sarah Mitchell wished all students well for Term 4 and said they shouldn’t be distracted by Labor’s constant lies.
 
“Parents, students and teachers deserve transparency and honesty and should be concerned by the fact the school infrastructure pipeline has dried up under this government. It’s all good and well to bombard people with media releases, but what’s more important is ensuring there’s a strong future for education in NSW,” Mrs Mitchell said. 
 
Member for Winston Hills Mark Taylor said Darcy Road Public School sits right in the heart of his electorate, and every parent knows it was the Coalition that made the project a reality.
 
“Too often Labor’s ‘facts’ and figures don’t add up, but its media spin can’t hide the truth.  It’s the Liberals and Nationals that have the track record and the know-how to get things building again instead of delivering empty slogans,” Mr Taylor said.
 
Member for Epping Monica Tudehope said families want less talk and more things delivered.
 
“This desperate announcement today is a classic case of smoke and mirrors and shows a government completely out of its depth and running out of ideas,” Ms Tudehope said.
 
Member for Ryde Jordan Lane said in the Ryde electorate locals can see right through this performance.
 
“The projects Labor lists were already locked in and funded by the Liberals and Nationals and things have slowed to a crawl in the past two years under this do-nothing government,” Mr Lane said. 

The Minns Labor Government is continuing its mission to build a safer New South Wales and crack down on crime, with the official reopening of the historic Kiama Police Station today.

Following the temporary closure of the station from 27 April to 2 September 2025 to undergo works, today marks another step in building community confidence and giving police the tools they need to keep people safe.

Works include essential roof and interior repairs, including the replacement of roof sheets and guttering, the removal of damaged skylights, mould remediation, repainting and new carpeting.

Kiama will continue to be serviced 24-hours a day by the Lake Illawarra Police District with officers patrolling in fully equipped police vehicles that function as mobile police stations.

These patrols ensure round-the-clock coverage for the community and surrounding areas, backed by specialist units and intelligence-based deployments as needed.

This investment in Kiama is part of the Minns Labor Government’s broader plan to rebuild the NSW Police Force and strengthen policing across the state.

After more than a decade of neglect, we’re focused on delivering the resources, support and reforms needed to attract new recruits, retain experienced officers and give police the tools they need to keep communities safe.

The former Liberal-National Government had no plan for police recruitment, no plan for police retention and sent wages backwards for more than a decade. Thousands of experienced officers left the force as a result.

We are working hard to rebuild the NSWPF and create safer communities. While there is more to do, that work includes:

• Delivering a once-in-a-generation pay rise for police officers
• Establishing an historic scheme to pay recruits to train, resulting in a 70 per cent increase in applications to join the NSWPF
• Establishing the Be a Cop in Your Hometown program
• Establishing the Professional Mobility Program to incentivise experienced officers from interstate and New Zealand to join the NSWPF.

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said:

“The Kiama Police Station has stood the test of time and remains a much-loved part of this beautiful town.

“Face-to-face interaction with police is important for many people, and this building provides just that. It stands as a place of connection for the community and complements the outstanding work of officers across the Lake Illawarra Police District.

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to backing our police with the safe workplaces, facilities and resources they need to keep communities right across the South Coast safe.”

Member-elect for Kiama Katelin McInerney said:

“The Kiama Police Station is part of the fabric of our town, and it’s fantastic to see this historic building back open and serving the community.

“These works mean our local police have a safe and clean workplace, and our community continues to have a welcoming, accessible point of contact.”

The Minns Labor Government has announced applications for the $1 million Port Kembla Community Investment Fund will open next Monday (20 October) with local groups and business encouraged to apply for grants of up to $250,000.

Grants are available for a range of projects that help activate or enhance the port, boost visitation and tourism, create strong community bonds and increase participation in cultural and artistic life.

The Fund sets out to deliver high-quality projects that:

• foster stronger community bonds
• enhance accessibility
• boost visitation
• increase participation in cultural and artistic life
• enhance public, environmental or business infrastructure.

In the past the program has delivered projects including the Port Kembla Community Skate Park, which features a new skate bowl, skate space and basketball courts, upgrades to the Port Kembla Surf Club as well as the Keeping Culture Alive Hall upgrade and improved Marine Rescue Port Kembla facilities.

The program supports projects between $10,000 and $250,000 and applications will open on Monday 20 October 2025 and close on Monday 15 December 2025.

To increase opportunities for investment in the Port Kembla area the Minns Government has adjusted the area of eligibility to include the suburbs of Port Kembla, Cringila, and parts of Warrawong and Lake Heights to maximise the benefit to local organisations.

For further information about the program, including guidelines and eligibility criteria, go to www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/port-kembla-community-investment-fund.

Minister for Illawara and South Coast, Ryan Park said

“The Port Kembla is an economic powerhouse and one of the fastest growing and most exciting regions in NSW.

“This fund is about giving communities access to resources that will build a more vibrant community.

“The Minns Labor Government is investing heavily in the region, and this is just the latest initiative designed to ensure local communities and businesses continues to succeed.”

Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“Port Kembla drives the local economy and is a major employer in the Illawarra.

“The NSW Government is proud to back transformative projects that will revitalise and energise Port Kembla and the surrounding area, bring people together and strengthen local connections.

“This funding round is about empowering the Port Kembla community to shape its own future, whether through cultural celebration, improved public spaces or events that bring people together.

“Investing in Port Kembla means investing in jobs, creativity and connection. These projects will help unlock the area’s full potential and ensure it remains a vibrant place to live, work and visit.

Member for Wollongong, Paul Scully said:

“We’re committed to making Port Kembla a place where opportunity thrives, where infrastructure meets imagination and community-led ideas become reality.

“This helps with the ongoing rebuild and revitalisation of facilities in and around Port Kembla.

“The projects supported through this round will leave a lasting mark on Port Kembla’s landscape and identity.”

City of Wollongong Mayor, Tania Brown said:

“Port Kembla is a thriving and vibrant community. This fund offers a way for enterprising businesses and community organisations to get a funding boost which supports innovation and activation within this community.

“I welcome the expansion of the fund to include Cringila, and parts of Warrawong and Lake Heights as a postcode doesn’t define a community, and these suburbs have close and tightknit networks that can come together for the greater good.’’

Port Kembla Chamber of Commerce President, Jonathan Crowe said:

“The Port Kembla Community Infrastructure Fund has been a game-changer for our suburb. The recent opening of the new Port Kembla Skate Park is a perfect example of how this funding can create spaces that bring people together, energise our community, and give young people a place to connect and be active. We’ve seen firsthand how these projects build pride and momentum in our community.

“The next round of the Port Kembla Community Infrastructure Fund presents another exciting opportunity to invest in our future. The benefits of previous funding have already made Port Kembla a more welcoming and dynamic place to live, visit and do business. Continued investment like this helps our community thrive.”

The Minns Labor Government is continuing to support local business and organisations in Macarthur and southwest Sydney by recently running a forum in Campbelltown which advised small businesses on how they can better navigate the workers compensation system, how to handle claims and offered information on return-to-work programs.

The forum run by icare provided over 100 local businesses with practical advice, resources and insights all geared towards helping better manage their premiums as well as information on injury prevention, early intervention and recovery support for mental health at work.

Small businesses are the lifeblood of the NSW economy, contributing over $535 billion every year.

The South-West Sydney region has over 26,000 businesses that employ over 220,000 people. Gross incurred workers compensation cost per year in the region is almost $300 million.

The forum included information on how premiums are calculated, what business owners can do to support their staff’s wellbeing and provided advice on return-to-work strategies.

The multi-session day highlighted the importance of understanding workplace obligations and featured speakers from the NSW Government, icare, and SafeWork NSW covering topics such as Savings & Incentives for Small Business, Mentally Healthy Workplaces & Understanding your psychosocial obligations and Understanding your Experience-Rated Employer Premium to minimise costs.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to fixing the state’s workers compensation system to ensure a sustainable scheme that works for the state’s injured workers and businesses who pay the premiums.

The Government workers compensation reform package is still stuck in the Parliament. The package passed the Legislative Assembly in early June, before being delayed by the Opposition.

Every day reform is delayed the workers compensation system deteriorates further.

• Just 50 per cent of workers with a psychological injury can return to work within a year, compared to 95 per cent of workers with a physical injury.
• The private sector scheme is going backwards by $6 million per day. It is soon expected to hold only 80 cents in assets for every dollar it will have to pay in claims.
• Absent reform, 340,000 NSW businesses will have to pay a 36 per cent increase in premiums over the next three years even if they have no claims against them.

The Minns Labor government is committed to increasing engagement with small business in line with its reforms.

Employers in NSW can register for future events online or immediately access a range of free, easy-to-use tools from icare’s Small Business Hub.

The icare online Mental Health Hub, provides employers with free tools, resources, and guidance to support their workforce, manage claims and help tackle these costs

For more information about upcoming icare outreach events, visit the website.

Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said:

“I’m pleased to have attended this important forum in Campbelltown where there is a real need to provide support and information for businesses of all sizes. Icare experts were in attendance to provide important advice, tips, tools and useful information. This one-on-one engagement is critical.

“Helping local employers support their workers to stay safe, return to work quickly and get home safely at the end of every day not only safeguards workers’ health, but saves them money.

“The NSW Government has introduced legislation to reform the Workers Compensation System and our Workplace Health and Safety system to improve the prevention and treatment of psychological injuries which occur at work. This includes increasing the Government’s outreach to small businesses so they can better navigate a complex system.

“The NSW Government’s 2025-26 Budget announcement strengthened the state’s work health and safety regulator with a major $127.7 million investment over the next four years to address psychosocial hazards and compliance and enforcement of safe work practices.”

Member for Campbelltown Greg Warren said:

“Small businesses are the lifeblood of our region. It is important that we support them to find ways to successfully navigate the Workers Compensation system.

“I wish to sincerely thank the local business community for their collaboration and assistance to put this event together. Their commitment to finding smarter, more efficient ways to operate is what keeps the local economy moving.”

Member for Camden Sally Quinnell said:

“The Camden community is home to some incredible and thriving small businesses, from restaurants to retail and everything in between.

“It’s imperative that our government ensures these businesses are supported, as they are the heart and soul of our communities – and we wouldn’t be on the map without them.”

Member for Wollondilly Judy Hannan said:

“This event is an important initiative to help local businesses in Wollondilly to continue to thrive and prosper.

“The information session on how to manage claims were invaluable for businesses to help with their costs.

“I would like to thank Minister Cotsis for helping stage this event and for her continued support.”

President Campbelltown Business Chamber Shefali Pall said:

“Events like this in Campbelltown are crucial for equipping local business owners with practical tools, expert advice, and cost-saving strategies that make a real difference.

“We’re committed to ensuring local businesses have every opportunity to grow and thrive.

“I’d like to thank Minister Cotsis for her strong advocacy and continued support.”

icare Manager Mobile Engagement Team Adam O’Leary said:

“Psychosocial injury claims have increased sharply in recent years, particularly in high pressure roles and people facing industries.

“This event was about equipping business owners with practical strategies to reduce risks, meet WHS obligations, and support their people through recovery, because healthier workplaces are stronger workplaces.”