Category: NSW News

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.”

The Illawarra was the heart of netball this weekend as more than 70 teams came together for the 2025 Netball NSW Masters State Titles and Aware Super Social Masters, celebrating fierce competition, friendship, and the enduring spirit of the game.

In a thrilling display of skill and connection, Eastwood Ryde were crowned 2025 Netball NSW Masters State Champions, successfully defending their title in a weekend that showcased both elite netball and incredible camaraderie. Baulkham Hills claimed runner-up honours after two days of high-quality matches.

Eastwood Ryde – 2025 Netball NSW State Masters Champions

Eastwood Ryde captain Emily Keenan, said the win was particularly rewarding.

It’s such a privilege to play together again and to defend our title against so many strong teams,” Keenan said. “It’s been a brilliant weekend. The netball standard was amazing – every game tested us. Masters is about so much more than results; it’s about reconnecting, sharing memories and celebrating the game we all love.”

Stacy Harding, General Manager Competitions at Netball NSW, congratulated all participants and praised the Illawarra community for hosting an exceptional event.

The Masters State Titles continues to be one of the most anticipated events on our calendar,” Harding said.

From Australian Diamonds legends to Premier League stars and lifelong club players, the level of competition and camaraderie this weekend was outstanding. Congratulations to Eastwood Ryde on a well-deserved win, and thank you to the Illawarra Netball Association for creating such a memorable experience for everyone involved.”

Hosted at the Illawarra Netball Association’s Indoor Sports Centre, the tournament featured 11 associations, including strong local representation with two Illawarra teams, as well as contenders from Gosford, Shoalhaven, Port Stephens and Manly Warringah.

Combined Illawarra Teams – 2025 Netball NSW Masters State Titles

Running alongside the State Titles, the Aware Super Social Masters brought a different kind of energy to the courts — a mix of sport, music, laughter and themed fun that only Masters netball can deliver.

More than 60 teams, with players aged between 35 and 65, took part in two days of competition and connection, proving that passion for the game doesn’t fade with time. The legendary “Back to School” themed Saturday night social at the University of Wollongong’s UniBar was a crowd favourite, with trivia, dancing and plenty of nostalgic costumes.

For the first time, Aware Super came on board as presenting partner, supporting an event that celebrates community as much as competition.

The Aware Super Social Masters is so much more than a tournament – it’s a celebration of stories, laughter and lifelong friendships,” said Harding. “It reminds us that netball is for everyone, at every age and stage.”

Crowd favourites included the local Illawarra Flames, who shone on and off the court, and the beloved Birrong “Six Over Sixty”, who have been part of the Social Masters since 2013 continue to inspire with their enduring love of the game.

Birrong ‘SOS’ Team – 2025 Aware Super Social Masters

Birrong SOS captain Raelene Allen said her team relished every moment of the weekend.

We might be the ‘old girls’, but we still love the game, the laughs, and the feeling of being part of something special,” Allen has said.

The Hunter & Central Coast region has been crowned winners of the 2025 Netball NSW Regional State Cup, finishing top of the ladder after a fiercely contested weekend of netball at Netball Central, Sydney Olympic Park.

Across two days of round-robin play, each team faced one another twice, with the Hunter & Central Coast demonstrating outstanding consistency and teamwork to secure the title.

The tournament came down to a thrilling final round clash between Hunter & Central Coast and Riverina — a true battle for the crown. A win to Hunter & Central Coast would seal the title outright, while a Riverina victory would have resulted in a draw, with Hunter & Central Coast only holding the edge on percentage thanks to a margin of just one point separating the two teams on for and against.

2025 Champions – Hunter & Central Coast – Netball NSW Regional State Cup

I’m incredibly proud of this group — they’ve shown composure, grit and genuine belief in each other all weekend,” said Hunter & Central Coast coach Lauren Hill.

Every athlete played their role and lifted when it mattered most. To see them come together from different associations and perform at this level is really special. This win is a reflection of the hard work happening across our region and the depth of talent coming through.”

The event brought together the best emerging netball talent from six powerhouse regions — Hunter & Central Coast, North Coast, North West, Riverina, South Coast and West Central West — with athletes aged 16 to 22 competing in a high-performance environment that mirrors the Netball NSW Premier League U23s.

2025 Runners Up – Riverina – Netball NSW Regional State Cup

Netball NSW General Manager of Performance and Pathways, Mardi Aplin, congratulated all teams on an outstanding weekend of netball.

The Regional State Cup is about showcasing regional pride and giving athletes, coaches and officials from across New South Wales the chance to experience an elevated level of competition,” Aplin said.

The standard of play this weekend was exceptional, and it’s exciting to see so many athletes pushing themselves and each other to reach that next level.”

The 2025 Netball NSW Regional State Cup Team of the Tournament was also announced, recognising standout athletes who demonstrated excellence, leadership and consistency throughout the weekend.

The 2025 Netball NSW Regional State Cup once again highlighted the strength of regional netball and the crucial role these competitions play in developing the state’s future stars.

2025 Netball NSW Regional State Cup Results
Winners: Hunter & Central Coast
Runners-Up: Riverina
Followed by: Third – South Coast, Fourth – West Central West, Fifth – North Coast, Sixth – North West

Team of the Tournament – 2025 Netball NSW Regional State Cup

2025 Netball NSW Regional State Cup – Team of the Tournament
Jade Stringer – Hunter and Central Coast
Brooke Buckley – Riverina
Molly Brownell – Hunter and Central Coast
Ash Reynoldson – Riverina
Tahlia Quinn – Riverina
Emma McCallum – Hunter and Central Coast
Isabella Christian – South Coast
Marley Aplin – West Central West
Eve Power – Hunter and Central Coast
Ava Francisco – West Central West
Sally Werfel – South Coast
Kate Wallace – Riverina
Mia Lewis – West Central West – Umpire

The Minns Labor Government is launching a month-long compliance blitz campaign in October with a specific focus on forklift safety with over 250 SafeWork inspectors travelling across regional and metropolitan NSW to conduct unannounced checks.

The initiative is part of National Safe Work month and follows several injuries and fatalities, including a tragic forklift death last month in Sydney’s east.

Mobile plant, vehicles and fixed machinery is one of SafeWork NSW’s five regulatory priorities and is a leading cause of traumatic injuries and fatalities in workplaces.

Since January 2024, more than 600 forklift incidents have been reported to SafeWork NSW. Four of these tragically resulted in a fatality, while two thirds were considered dangerous, where there was no injury to a worker but there was a potential of harm being caused. 

70 per cent of these forklift incidents occurred in the manufacturing, postal, transport and warehousing industries. 

Incidents involving forklifts include collisions, rollovers, and objects falling off forklifts and often have serious and life changing consequences.

The Safe Work Month Compliance blitz will also cover SafeWork NSW’s other regulatory priorities which cause the greatest risk to workers including: 

• Falls from heights
• Harms to workers in the health care and social assistance sector
• Managing psychosocial risks at work – including sexual harassment
• Exposure to hazardous substances including asbestos, crystalline silica and welding fumes

Business owners and workers can access a range of resources to help manage the risks of working with forklifts on the SafeWork NSW website at: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/hazards-a-z/forklifts. 

For more information on National Safe Work Month, visit the Safe Work Australia website at https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/national-safe-work-month. 

Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said:

“SafeWork NSW’s month-long compliance blitz in October is a timely reminder that safety non-negotiable and should be the top priority for anyone operating a forklift.

“On average every year, one worker loses their life every week in the workplace. That’s one death too many.

“This compliance blitz builds on the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to make SafeWork NSW a tougher cop on the beat and follows a major $127.7 million investment over the next four years to address psychosocial hazards and compliance and enforcement of safe work practices.  

“Every worker has the right to go to work and return home safely to their loved ones.”

Member for Leppington Nathan Hagarty said:

“Every forklift incident is one too many. With so many industrial businesses in the Leppington electorate, safety must always be front and centre.

“These checks are about making sure every worker goes home safely at the end of the day—because no job, deadline or sense of urgency is worth a life.”

SafeWork Commissioner Janet Schorer said:

“Work health and safety is an everyday priority, and we should not limit ourselves to taking the correct precautions to one month a year.  

“Forklifts are used in construction sites across NSW daily, yet every year they continue to contribute workplace deaths and injuries that often result in substantial human and financial costs for workers, industry and the community. 

“SafeWork NSW remains committed to supporting industry and workplaces in keeping their workers safe and inspectors will be out in full force to ensure businesses with workers using mobile plant, vehicles or fixed machinery such forklifts are engaging with the proper practises for keeping safer workplaces.” 

Fourteen newly trained Extended Care Paramedics (ECPs) have been deployed across the state following the successful completion of their training program at the NSW Ambulance State Operations Centre.

Extended Care Paramedics are paramedics already registered with NSW Ambulance who complete additional training and bring with them a diverse range of clinical backgrounds and experience.

After undertaking a 10-week intensive education program, which includes two weeks clinical placement on the road and at a hospital, the new ECPs will commence on road as independent clinicians from next week.

ECPs are paramedics who have the knowledge and skills required to care for patients with conditions suitable for alternative clinical pathways to an emergency department, where it is safe and clinically appropriate to do so.  

The class of fourteen new ECPs includes June Munday, a NSW Ambulance paramedic for five years most recently in Central West NSW, and Peter Wilson, a NSW Ambulance paramedic for more than 25 years, who is trained as a special operations and rescue paramedic.

This marks the 26th Extended Care Paramedic (ECP) course delivered by NSW Ambulance since the program began in 2007.

ECPs are now based across metropolitan Sydney, the Illawarra, Central Coast, Inner Hunter and, through a pilot program, on the North Coast. They can also be deployed to areas of greatest need, as demonstrated during the recovery phase following severe weather events on the Mid North Coast and in Hunter New England earlier this year.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to building an engaged, capable and supported workforce, by:

• Abolishing the wages cap and delivering the largest wage increase to healthcare workers in a decade;
• Recruiting and deploying 500 regional paramedics;
• Implementing ratios in our emergency departments;
• Saving 1,112 nurses which the Liberal Government planned to sack; and
• Supporting our future health workforce through providing them with study subsidies.

Minister for Health, Ryan Park: 

“Extended Care Paramedics play a vital role in giving patients more options for safe and appropriate treatment outside of busy emergency departments.

“I want to congratulate this new class of Extended Care Paramedics and thank them for their dedication to delivering quality care for people in their time of need.

“More staff, lower response times, better patient outcomes – it’s as simple as that. 

NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan: 

“Our Extended Care Paramedics are a prime example of how NSW Ambulance continues to innovate to deliver better care for our patients. ECPs provide options that keep people well and supported in the community.

“This new intake of Extended Care Paramedics have shown outstanding commitment, skill and compassion throughout their training, and these qualities will make a real difference to the people of NSW.”

Extended Care Paramedic June Munday: 

“The part of the job I love the most is patient care, spending time with people and building a real rapport. Becoming an Extended Care Paramedic means I can do more of that while giving patients safe alternatives to hospital when it’s appropriate.

“This role is about empowering patients with information and options, while continuing to grow my own skills.”

“It’s rewarding to know we can provide the right care in the right setting and make a genuine difference in people’s lives.”

Extended Care Paramedic Peter Wilson:

“After more than 20 years as a paramedic, the knowledge I’ve gained through this course has been incredible. ECPs take a broad, holistic approach to patient care that really complements the work I’ve done across special operations.

“I’m looking forward to applying these skills in my local community and working closely with allied health providers to deliver care that keeps them safe and supported outside hospital where appropriate.”

The battle for regional supremacy will take centre stage this weekend as six powerhouse regions converge on Netball Central, Sydney Olympic Park for the 2025 Netball NSW Regional State Cup. Across Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 October, the state’s brightest netball talent will go head-to-head in a showcase of passion, precision, and regional pride. Bringing together the top athletes from the Hunter & Central Coast, North Coast, North West, Riverina, South Coast and West Central West regions, the Cup represents the pinnacle of regional competition in New South Wales. Athletes aged between 16 and 22 years have been selected from their respective Regional League competitions, mirroring the standards and structures of the Netball NSW Premier League U23s. Netball NSW General Manager of Performance and Pathways, Mardi Aplin, said the tournament continues to play a vital role in connecting regional talent to the state’s high-performance pathway. “The Regional State Cup gives athletes, coaches and officials from across the state the chance to play for regional pride and compete in a high-performance environment as a region,” Aplin said. “We’ve already seen players progress from this tournament into Premier League, with 14 athletes from last year’s event now competing at that level. It’s a weekend of great netball and an important opportunity for athletes to measure themselves against some of the best emerging talent in the state.” A fierce rivalry is set to reignite between Riverina — perennial contenders for the title — and the combined Hunter & Central Coast team, a region with a proud history of success. With all teams playing each other twice over the two-day tournament, every quarter will count in the race for the 2025 crown. The tournament is also proving to be a launching pad for future coaches. Georgia Fuller, former Riverina Head Coach, was appointed Assistant Coach of the Opens Premier League Central Coast Heart following her involvement in last year’s Cup, before stepping into a Premier League coaching role with Eastwood Ryde — clear evidence of the competition’s growing reputation as a pathway for both players and coaches. With regional pride on the line and future stars set to emerge, the 2025 Regional State Cup is shaping as another key chapter in the story of regional netball in NSW.

What the Coaches Say North Coast – Nikkia Humphries “Regional State Cup is an exciting opportunity for our local talent to engage in a competitive, high-level environment. Our athletes travel long distances to train, so seeing their hard work come to life is incredibly rewarding. The teamwork and commitment within this group has been amazing. This competition empowers regional athletes to believe in themselves, refine their skills and take that next step in their netball journey.” South Coast – Gemma Silver “Representing the South Coast is always a proud moment. Our players have shown real commitment in their preparation, balancing work, study and travel to be here. We’ve focused on maintaining discipline and connection across all thirds, and I’m excited to see our game plan come together this weekend. The Regional State Cup is such an important step for regional athletes – it builds belief and provides genuine exposure to selectors and pathway opportunities.”

South Coast Netball Regional State Cup Team

West Central West – Linda Macleod “It’s an amazing opportunity for our athletes and coaches to experience high-level competition. Being selected to represent West Central West is a real honour. With limited training opportunities, I’m looking forward to seeing the players put our tactical structures into practice and improve as the weekend progresses. This competition is invaluable for regional athletes looking to take the next step and gain exposure at the next level.” North West – Charli Wright “Representing North West is a proud moment for our entire group — players, coaches and managers. We’ve worked hard on transitions and court structures, and I’m excited to see how our players show up for each other and embrace the challenge. Regional State Cup is crucial for regional athletes — it pushes them out of their comfort zones and gives them the competition they need to grow. Our team is ready to rise to that challenge.”

Hunter and Central Coast Netball Regional State Cup Team

Hunter & Central Coast – Lauren Hill “Wearing the green means more than just representing our region — it’s about honouring the legacy of those who came before us and the 160 athletes who trialled. Each of our 12 players brings something unique, and I can’t wait to see that come to life, especially through our defensive unit. The Regional State Cup is an incredible opportunity for regional athletes to showcase their talent on a bigger stage and experience what high-performance netball feels like.” Event Details 2025 Netball NSW Regional State Cup 11–12 October 2025 Netball Central, Sydney Olympic Park Participating Regions: Hunter & Central Coast, North Coast, North West, Riverina, South Coast, West Central West Live Stream: Fans can catch all the action of the 2025 Regional State Cup live and on demand via NetballNSW.tv. Every game across the two-day tournament will be streamed live, giving family, friends and fans the chance to follow their region from anywhere. A weekend pass is available for $9.99, providing full access to all matches. Please note that existing NetballNSW.tv account holders will still need to purchase a separate pass specifically for the Regional State Cup.

Twenty-six registered bidders vied for the 12 flood-affected homes up for auction at the Lismore Workers Sports Club at Goonellabah overnight (Tuesday, October 7), with sale prices ranging from $10,500 to $54,500.

To date, 83 properties in the Northern Rivers have now been offered for sale in the Northern Rivers, capturing nationwide attention.

PRD Real Estate conducted the auction of 12 flood buyback homes from central Lismore, South Lismore and North Lismore.

Several families bought houses, as well as one long term renter buying a home for the very first time. Builders and investors from outside the region also participated in the auction, which attracted an audience of 50 people, including four phone bidders.
 

The highlights included:

• 157 Magellan Street, central Lismore: $41,500
• 58 Ewing Street, central Lismore: $47,500
• 61 Brewster Street, central Lismore: $54,500
• 171 Magellan Street, central Lismore: $15,500
• 13 Rhodes Street, South Lismore: $32,500
• 23 Rhodes Street, South Lismore: $39,000
• 36 Barrow Lane, North Lismore: $11,500
• 37 Barrow Lane, North Lismore: $16,000
• 118 Terania Street, North Lismore: $10,50
• 80 Terania Street, North Lismore: $14,500
• 71 Bridge Street, North Lismore: $22,000
• 8 Simmons Street, North Lismore: $15,500.

All homes earmarked for relocation have been purchased by the NSW Reconstruction Authority through the buyback stream of the $880 million Resilient Homes Program, jointly funded by the NSW and Commonwealth Governments.

The Resilient Homes Program is the largest adaptation program of its kind in the country. So far, more than 1300 flood impacted homeowners have engaged with the buyback program, and more than 926 offers have been made.

There is no reserve price on these houses, meaning bidding can start and end at $1, making it one of the most accessible housing opportunities in Australia.

The Minns Labor Government remains committed to reusing as many flood-affected homes as possible. Additional houses will be released for auction by First National Real Estate at Murwillumbah on November 11 and PRD Real Estate in Lismore on November 17.

All NSW proceeds from the home sales are reinvested into the Resilient Homes Program to support more flood-affected residents.

For details on the homes sold, including photos can be found at: https://www.prd.com.au/northernrivers/relocation-homes/.

Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said:
“I asked for the steam rolling of the selling of these houses and that’s exactly what we are doing.

“We have set an ambitious target of putting an extra 42 houses up for sale by Christmas and are well on our way.

“It’s great to see the continued interest in this program, which is giving so many people a chance at something affordable in the housing market.

“With these tin and timber homes we are delivering the hopes and dreams of a generation to own their own home while ensuring the unique character of this great region lives on.”

NSW Reconstruction Authority Executive Director Northern Rivers Adaptation Division Kristie Clarke
said:
“The Resilient Homes Program is one of the most ambitious initiatives undertaken after a disaster in Australia.

“Through the buyback process, we’re removing homes from the floodplain and creating new opportunities by making some of these available for relocation.”

This Small Business Month, the Minns Labor Government is making it easier for local businesses to get the personalised advice they need, with face-to-face support available right across the state.

From Ballina to Bega, Griffith to Parramatta, Wallsend to Wagga, the Service NSW Business Bureau will be helping small business owners save time, make confident decisions and connect with the right support across the NSW Government.

Whether starting or growing a business, one-on-one support will be available at more than 30 Service NSW Centres across the State on select Wednesdays in October, from 10am to 4pm.

Businesses can get tailored assistance on a range of topics including:

• accessing government programs and services
• complying with regulations
• applying for licences and permits
• exploring opportunities to grow, including exporting and selling to government.

The Business Bureau also offers support for women in business, multicultural businesses and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses.

This month we are proud to celebrate Indigenous Business Month, recognising the strength, creativity and contribution of First Nations entrepreneurs, and encouraging everyone to engage with and support Indigenous businesses.

NSW Small Business Month is a month-long program for small businesses across the State to attend free and low-cost events aligned to their individual business interests. The program is a unique opportunity to celebrate our vibrant small business community and their contribution to the economy.

The Business Bureau is collaborating with partners during Small Business Month to deliver free events and support businesses and start-ups.

There are more than 870,000 small businesses in NSW, making up 97 per cent of all NSW businesses. NSW small businesses employ 1.7 million people in the private sector, which is around 40 per cent of the State’s private sector workforce.

For more information and to book an in-person appointment at a participating Service NSW Centre, visit https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/business/small-business-appointments-at-service-nsw-centres or call 13 77 88.

Minister for Small Business, Janelle Saffin:

“Small businesses are the heart of the New South Wales economy, and we are committed to helping them to grow, innovate and thrive.

“I see firsthand the strength and resilience of small businesses every day and I am committed to making sure they get the support they need.

“Small Business Month gives people the chance to connect, collaborate and build the skills they need to take their business to the next level.”

Acting Minister for Customer Service, Anoulack Chanthivong:

“This initiative helps to support the growth, resilience and innovation of small businesses across New South Wales.

“Across Small Business Month, we are making it easier for businesses to get the in-person support they need, especially in regional areas.

“Whether in a Service NSW Centre, over the phone or online, the Business Bureau is there to help every business in NSW by providing personalised and practical support to help them succeed.”