NSW Government to consider recommendations from Bondi Junction inquest

The Bondi Junction tragedy has left a lasting impact on the community, and the delivery of the coronial findings today will be difficult for anyone impacted.

The final report contains 23 recommendations, 12 of which relate to the NSW Government, these include:

  • Considering options to support the roll-out of appropriate co-responder models so that they are more widely available throughout NSW.
  • Monitoring and assessing the trial of the amendments to the Law Enforcement Powers and Responsibilities Act 2002 (NSW) in respect of “wanding”.
  • Promoting, by way of an advertising campaign, the principles of “Escape. Hide. Tell.”

The NSW Government will now carefully consider the Coroner’s recommendations to assess how they can be implemented to further strengthen our mental health system and improve community safety.

Over the past 18 months, the NSW Government has undertaken work to identify systemic contributors to this tragedy and take proactive steps to address them.

In direct response to the Bondi Junction tragedy, the NSW Government delivered a $111 million package to strengthen community mental health services.

This included leading national work to establish a principles-based framework to improve interjurisdictional information sharing for both voluntary and involuntary mental health consumers.

In September 2025, all Ministers for Health and Ministers for Mental Health across Australia formally endorsed the framework, reflecting a shared national commitment to safer, more connected mental health systems.

These investments focus on streamlining access to state mental health services to reduce fragmentation and barriers to care, expanding assertive outreach models to better engage transient and hard-to-reach individuals, and enhancing mental health housing for people living with severe and persistent mental illness.

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

“This will be a difficult day for many, particularly for the families who lost loved ones, those who were injured, first responders, and everyone in the Bondi community whose lives were changed forever.

“We will now carefully consider the Coroner’s recommendations and work to implement measures that strengthen our mental health system and community safety.”

Minister for Health Ryan Park said:

“I want to commend the bravery, skill and compassion shown by NSW Ambulance, hospital staff and all first responders who worked under immense pressure to save lives on that tragic day.

“The effects of the tragedy have been felt far and wide. I extend my deepest sympathies to the families, friends and loved ones of those who were affected.”

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said:

“My thoughts are with the families who will forever be affected by this horrific event and I thank the Coroner for her diligent work and her recommendations.

“I cannot overstate the bravery of our police officers that day. Their actions epitomised the very best of the NSW Police Force, confronting danger to protect others. I particularly want to acknowledge Detective Inspector Amy Scott for her remarkable actions.

“It’s critical that people experiencing a mental health incident receive the help they need which is why we are working with Health on a mental health led response to incidents in our community.”

Attorney-General Michael Daley said:

“The NSW Government thanks the Coroner for her thorough investigation and findings. We will take the time to consider the recommendations before formally responding.”

Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said:

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to supporting people with complex mental health concerns to access support services.

“We’ve taken immediate action in the aftermath of the Bondi Junction tragedy to strengthen community mental health supports and improve information sharing across all Australian jurisdictions, but there is always more work to do.”

Central Coast young leader among NSW Women of the Year 2026 finalists

Central Coast champion Layne Paull has joined the ranks of 31 remarkable women and girls to be named a finalist for the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards.

The North Avoca resident is nominated in the NSW Young Woman of the Year category.

The NSW Women of the Year Awards recognise outstanding women who demonstrate strong leadership, resilience and community spirit.

Ms Paull is a young leader with a passion for inclusion, innovation and community service.

As Inclusion Nippers Coordinator for North Avoca Surf Life Saving Club and Team Leader for Disabled Surfers Association, she has developed programs that make aquatic environments welcoming for people of all abilities.

Ms Paull juggles studying biomedical engineering at the University of Technology Sydney with her role as a disability support worker, designing personalised strategies to enhance clients’ skills and independence.

She was awarded the Women in Engineering Scholarship 2025 by Engineers Australia.

Now in its 14th year, the awards program shines a light on extraordinary individuals across the state who are improving lives, driving innovation, strengthening communities and inspiring future generations.

Recipients in each of the five award categories will be revealed at the Women of the Year Awards ceremony on Thursday 5 March at the International Convention Centre, Sydney.

This is the flagship event of NSW Women’s Week 2026, held from Monday 2 March to International Women’s Day on Sunday 8 March.

The 2026 Women of the Year Awards finalists are:

NSW Premier’s Woman of Excellence

  • Professor Tracey O’Brien AM – Lane Cove LGA
  • Clare Pearson – The Hills Shire LGA

NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year

  • Dr Aunty Rhonda Radley – Port Macquarie–Hastings LGA
  • Adjunct Professor Nicole Turner – Port Stephens LGA
  • Sharon Winsor – Mid‑Western Regional LGA

NSW Community Hero

  • Carolyn Campbell-McLean – Parramatta LGA
  • Ruby Riethmuller – Northern Beaches LGA
  • Gidget Foundation Australia Founders Group:
    • Alexandra Berthold – Ku-ring-gai LGA
    • Libby Bowditch – Northern Beaches LGA
    • Jacqui Cotton – Northern Beaches LGA
    • Stephanie Hughes – Waverley LGA
    • Lou Hunter – North Sydney LGA
    • Kim Mouret – Northern Beaches LGA
    • Simone Short – Mosman LGA

NSW Regional Woman of the Year

  • Jo Marshall – Upper Lachlan Shire LGA
  • Amy Riddle – Coffs Harbour City LGA
  • Jenny Worrell – Clarence Valley LGA

NSW Young Woman of the Year (16–30 years)

  • Miranda McGufficke – Snowy Monaro Regional LGA
  • Layne Paull – Central Coast LGA
  • Milli Weaver – Randwick City LGA
  • Dr Mithila Zaheen – Cumberland LGA

The Ones to Watch (7–15 years)

  • Imali Bamji – Hunters Hill LGA
  • Piper Clarke – Shoalhaven LGA
  • Hafsa Faizan – Liverpool LGA
  • Emma Hoskins – Blacktown LGA
  • Amalia Carolyn Howard – Dubbo LGA
  • Elly Ings – Northern Beaches LGA
  • Hannah Orr – Goulburn Mulwaree LGA
  • Ruvi Pooliyadde – Blacktown LGA
  • Shanvi Govinda Raju – Penrith LGA
  • Ivy Walker – Hornsby LGA

Learn more about the NSW Women of the Year Awards 2026 and finalists by visiting https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/women-nsw/awards-and-events/nsw-women-of-year-awards/nsw-women-of-year-awards-2026-finalists

Find out what other events are taking place during NSW Women’s Week 2026 at NSW Women’s Week 2026 | NSW Government. The NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony will be livestreamed for everyone to celebrate these inspirational women and girls.

Premier Chris Minns said:

“Every finalist represents the strength and diversity that defines New South Wales.

“These women are changing the lives of those around them – not for recognition, but because they believe in lifting up their communities.

“I congratulate all of the finalists and commend them for going above and beyond in their respective fields.”

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said:

“Layne’s tireless efforts in disability inclusion, innovation and community service are inspirational, and she is a more than worthy NSW Young Woman of the Year finalist.

“I join all Coasties in congratulating Layne.

“I would also like to acknowledge Professor Tracey O’Brien, a finalist for the NSW Premier’s Woman of Excellence and NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year finalists Adjunct Professor Nicole Turner, Dr Aunty Rhonda Radley and Sharon Winsor, all of who I have the privilege of working with in my other Ministerial portfolios.

“The calibre of women nominated for the NSW Women of the Year Awards couldn’t be higher and I congratulate each and every one of them.”

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

“Women and girls across New South Wales are making a difference right across our state and these awards recognise their invaluable contributions.

“This year we receive an incredible number of nominations, every one of them showcasing a story of grit, compassion and remarkable achievement.

“Our 2026 finalists come from all corners of New South Wales and their work spans health, community services, business, culture, education and advocacy. Their contribution enriches our communities and sets an example for girls and women everywhere.”

Member for Gosford and Parliamentary Secretary for Disability Inclusion Liesl Tesch said:

“The Central Coast is home to a vast array of fantastic women, shaping change and enriching our community through their everyday actions and incredible community spirit.

“A special congratulations to Central Coast local Layne Paull, a dedicated champion and advocate for disability inclusion.

“Layne’s expansive work in disability inclusion across sport, assistive technology, adaptive design and advocacy showcases her commitment to breaking barriers for all.

“Congratulations and thank you for your wonderful work Layne.”

NSW set to smash big battery target to secure our renewable energy future

The Minns Labor Government is backing the largest rollout of big batteries in NSW history. The NSW Government has awarded contracts for six new long‑duration battery projects to strengthen the state’s energy grid.

These batteries will ensure that NSW is on track to exceed its energy storage targets for the future. The batteries will help keep the lights on and provide enough low-cost renewable energy, being so powerful they can run one third of Sydney’s households for a day.

NSW has the most battery projects in Australia with over 200 projects either under construction or in the planning pipeline.

The projects are:

  • Great Western Battery in Wallerawang, near Lithgow (Neoen Australia) storing 3,500 megawatt hours (MWh)
  • Bannaby Battery Energy Storage System, in the Southern Tablelands (BW ESS) storing 2,676 MWh
  • Bowmans Creek Battery Energy Storage System, in the Upper Hunter (Ark Energy) storing 2,414 MWh
  • Armidale East Battery Energy Storage System (FRV Services Australia) storing 1,440 MWh
  • Kingswood Battery Energy Storage System, near Tamworth (Iberdrola Australia) storing 1,080 MWh
  • Ebor Battery Energy Storage System, near Armidale (Bridge Energy) storing 870 MWh

The big batteries are due to be completed by 2030.

As part of the Renewable Energy Rollout, the projects have been awarded contracts that provide a revenue underwriting,accelerating new energy infrastructure while protecting consumers. This means that the Government is supporting the project by providing investment confidence.

This tender was run by ASL, the independent Consumer Trustee. It is the state’s largest tender for long-duration storage to date, both in terms of total storage capacity and the number of contracts.

These projects are subject to the relevant planning approvals.

The Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe MLC, along with the Member for Granville, Julia Finn MP, officially opened Iberdrola’s completed Battery Energy Storage System in Western Sydney, which was successful as part of ASL’s Roadmap Tender 2, supported by the Australian Government Capacity Investment Scheme.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe said:

“These six big batteries mean we’re on track to smash our storage targets, harvesting the sun and the wind, so we can power NSW around the clock and put downward pressure on prices.

“We’re not stopping here – NSW will support more projects, so we’re ready for a grid powered by renewable energy, supported by gas.”

Julia Finn MP, Member for Granville said:

“I’m thrilled to open Iberdrola’s new Battery Energy Storage System in Smithfield, powering reliable energy to Western Sydney, while the Minns Labor Government backs more batteries right across NSW.”

NSW hospitals welcome more than 1,000 new junior doctors as interim pay rise deal reached

NSW Public hospitals have welcomed more than 1,000 new medical graduate interns, as an interim pay rise begins to land in the accounts of doctors employed by NSW Health.

The Minns Labor Government reached an interim agreement with the Australian Salaried Medical Officers’ Federation NSW (ASMOF) and the Health Services Union NSW (HSU) to increase pay and enhance conditions for more than 16,000 doctors, with the pay rise landing in bank accounts from February.

At the same time, the latest cohort of junior doctors have joined the NSW public health system, providing a welcome boost to the health workforce across the state.

Having completed their orientation in January, the junior doctors are already providing care to patients and much needed support to NSW’s hardworking health staff.

Interim agreement for doctors’ pay

The agreement provides for an interim 3.5 per cent pay increase (inclusive of 0.5% superannuation) for doctors employed in NSW Health, paid retrospectively from 1 July 2024, and a further 3.5 per cent pay increase (inclusive of 0.5% superannuation), paid retrospectively from 1 July 2025. This represents an immediate effective 7% pay increase (inclusive of superannuation), with backpay.

Doctors will also see improvements to their working conditions with mandated minimum rest periods between shifts, a maximum 14-hour shift length for rostered shifts for non-specialist medical officers, recognition of the unique training requirements of doctors when accessing paid parental leave,  enhanced access to training, education and study leave for new staff specialists; and a right to access to union services if a doctor chooses to. This settles a number of claims in the arbitration case.

The NSW Industrial Relations Commission will continue to arbitrate additional awards claims by ASMOF.

NSW Health continues to work with ASMOF and the HSU to progress the arbitration in a timely manner.

Welcoming junior doctors to NSW Health

Interns are medical graduates who have completed their medical degree and are required to complete a supervised year of practice in order to gain general registration.

The interns will work with and learn from NSW Health’s experienced and highly skilled medical staff in one of the world’s best health systems.

The new doctors starting their internship will be entering a training program with networked hospitals throughout the state, providing formal and on-the-job training.

They receive two-year contracts to rotate between metropolitan, regional and rural hospitals to ensure the diversity of their experience, they’ll also be rotated through different specialities.

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

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

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“These new medical graduate interns already play an important role in helping to provide high-quality care in our public hospitals. We are proud to have them on our team.

“Choosing to work in NSW means these new junior doctors will have the opportunity to learn from some of the country’s very best, as part of Australia’s largest health system.

“This agreement gives doctors a pay rise now, whilst allowing a pathway for ASMOF’s remaining award claims to be determined by the NSW Industrial Relations Commission.

“As this new cohort of junior doctors commence with NSW Health, this agreement provides for better conditions including enhanced protections against fatigue.

“This interim deal heralds a stronger, more resilient relationship between the NSW Government and our public hospital doctors, where together we can build an even better health system for the people of NSW.

“We are recruiting more doctors, nurses, paramedics and allied health professionals, and rebuilding an engaged, capable and supported workforce.”

Minister for Industrial Relations Sophie Cotsis:

“We welcome this interim agreement with the Australian Salaried Medical Officers’ Federation NSW (ASMOF) and the Health Services Union NSW (HSU) to increase pay and enhance conditions for more than 16,000 doctors.

“We are proud to support those who care for our communities day and night.

“The Minns Labor Government continues the work of rebuilding the state’s essential services and reforming the industrial relations system.

“That work began with the scrapping of the Coalition’s wages cap which was in place for 12 years, introducing a fairer, modern bargaining framework, setting up an Industrial court and amending the Industrial Relations Act to include a new Object to achieve gender equality in the workplace.”

Australia deepens cooperation with the Republic of the Marshall Islands

This week, the Australian Government welcomed the historic visit of the President of the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), H.E. Dr Hilda Heine and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Hon Kalani Kaneko.

The visit marks the first official bilateral visit to Australia by an RMI President in more than three decades. President Heine and Minister Kaneko engaged in fruitful discussions with Australia’s Governor General, Prime Minister and key cabinet ministers that underlined the strong ties and strategic alignment between Australia and RMI, committed to working together on shared priorities.

During the visit, President Heine witnessed Foreign Ministers Wong and Kaneko sign a letter of intent for Australia’s support for RMI’s new Resilience and Adaptation Trust Fund. The Fund will provide long-term financing for RMI to strengthen its climate change resilience, adaptation and mitigation.

The Australian Government, in partnership with UNICEF Australia, will also deliver clean solar and battery energy systems for 19 remote primary schools across RMI where teachers and students currently lack access to basic electricity in classrooms. This will be RMI’s first project with the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific.

The Australian Government will also support Women United Together Marshall Islands, a women’s rights organisation that supports the empowerment, advancement and protection of women and their families.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong:

“The visit of President Heine and Foreign Minister Kaneka demonstrates the deepening ties between the Republic of the Marshall Islands and Australia, building upon our longstanding cooperation in climate and oceans, development and security.

“Pacific nations, including the Republic of the Marshall Islands, are at the front line of the effects of climate change, but have contributed the least to it.

“Our region is stronger together – Australia and the Marshall Islands have a joint commitment to a peaceful, stable and prosperous region.”

Minister for Pacific Island Affairs Pat Conroy:

“Australia and the Republic of the Marshall Islands share a deep connection – Australia was the second country to recognise the Marshall Islands, almost 40 years ago.

“Together, with the Pacific family, we are committed to a stronger region where we can make our own decisions as strong, sovereign nations.”

Rate rise means renters and mortgage holders cop the pain for Labor’s inflation failure

Today’s interest rate rise means millions of Australians will be punished to clean up Labor’s inflation mess, driven by an overheated housing market the government refuses to fix, the Greens say.

“Renters and mortgage holders are getting smashed by the RBA, but it’s Labor’s failure on inflation that is responsible,” Greens Economic Justice spokesperson Senator Nick McKim said.

“Today’s interest rate rise is pure profit for the big banks, while mortgage holders and renters are being pushed deeper into pain.”

“Labor has chosen to protect billions in tax handouts for property speculators instead of helping renters and first home buyers.”

“Those settings drive up house prices, push up rents, and keep inflation high.”

“As a result of today’s rate rise, more of people’s pay packets will now flow straight into bank profits and landlord pockets.”

“This outcome was avoidable if Labor had acted to rein in investor tax breaks, including the capital gains tax discount.

“Australians should not be paying more every month because the government keeps siding with banks and big investors.”

Jimflation strikes again with 13th rate rise under Labor

Millions of Australian mortgage holders have been hit with another crushing blow today, as the Reserve Bank raised interest rates for the thirteenth time under Labor’s cost-of-living crisis.

For families already stretched to breaking point, this rate rise is devastating news delivered straight to their mortgage statement. The average mortgage holder is now paying more than $23,000 a year in interest than when Labor was elected.

This comes on top of soaring grocery bills, higher power prices, rising insurance premiums and rents that keep climbing.

This rate rise is not an accident. It is the direct consequence of Labor’s addiction to spending, which has kept inflation higher for longer and left the RBA with no choice but to keep tightening.

That assessment is backed by Australia’s leading economists.

AMP’s chief economist Shane Oliver has been clear: “The best thing that Australian governments can do to help bring down inflation would be to cut government spending back to more normal levels.”

IFM Investors’ chief economist Alex Joiner has warned that “the fiscal guard rails have come off”.

In the current financial year alone, Labor has added an additional $50 billion of new spending decisions – almost the value of the entire national defence budget.

Australians are now paying the price for Labor’s choices. In higher mortgage rates, but also lower real wages and rising tax bills.

Australian mortgage holders are being punished because the Government won’t show the discipline that families themselves have been forced to show.

When the RBA raises rates, it pulls money out of the economy to slow inflation. When the Government ramps up spending, it pushes money back in, forcing rates higher for longer.

In a stark indictment of the Government’s economic mismanagement, the decision to raise rates was unanimous. The entire RBA Monetary Policy Board has voted to hit the brakes, while the Treasurer keeps his foot flat on the accelerator with his reckless spending.

As part of its decision today the RBA also significantly upgraded its inflation forecasts and now expects inflation to remain above its target for at least another two and a half years.

It also expects that real wages will continue to fall for the remainder of the year, and that even slower economic growth and higher unemployment will result from rising interest rates.

This is Labor’s cost of living crisis. When Labor spends, Australians pay.

Thousands turn their home-buyer dreams into reality on the Central Coast

New data reveals that 3,370 first home buyers have found their dream hone on the Central Coast thanks to help by the Minns Labor Government, saving an average of $22,008 off the cost of their first home.

The popular initiative provides a full stamp duty exemption of $30,412 for first home buyers purchasing a property up to $800,000 and a concession for homes priced between $800,000 and $1 million.

It replaces the previous Liberal-National Government’s forever tax on first-home buyers, which left first-home buyers paying an annual tax back to the Government.

Gosford was the top suburb to benefit across the region, with 969 first buyers helped into homes, sharing in $20.6 million worth of savings, putting the Coast’s capital as 6th in the state for new homeowners helped.

Wyong was close behind with 814 first buyers sharing in $17.5 million in savings, followed by The Entrance with 482 first buyers saving a combined $10.5 million.

Across NSW, 82,174 first home buyers have benefited from the First Home Buyers Assistance since July 2023. Of those, 58,111 people paid no stamp duty at all, while 24,063 individuals paid a reduced amount.

The scheme also works with the Albanese Labor Government’s 5% Deposit and Shared Equity schemes, making it even easier for people and families to buy their first home.

Housing is the number one cost-of-living pressure on young people, families and downsizers.

Helping first home buyers is a critical piece of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to address these cost-of-living pressures and make sure NSW can be an accessible and affordable place to live.

That’s why the Minns Labor Government is delivering more homes to rent and buy, re-building essential services that families rely on, and providing long overdue investment in critical infrastructure across the Hunter, Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.

The First Home Buyers Assistance Dashboard has more statistics by suburb and Local Government Area and can be accessed at https://www.revenue.nsw.gov.au/help-centre/resources-library/statistics/fhba-dashboard

Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris said:

“It is wonderful to see so many people making the most of this Minns Labor Government program, with 3,370 families, couples and singles able to have a place to call home sooner in our growing region.

“Our region is such a great place to live, work and play and this scheme is turning the home-owning dream into reality for so many Coasties saving up for a deposit by wiping an average of more than $22,000 off the money they need.”

Minister for the Hunter and Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley said:

“The Central Coast is an amazing place to live, work and raise a family, and these figures show real confidence in our community’s future.

“When we came to government, we made a clear commitment to help people access the basics, including a place to call home, and we’re getting on with delivering exactly that.

“I’m proud to see more than 645 first-home buyers calling Swansea home, giving more locals the chance to put down roots in a community that offers opportunity, connection and a great lifestyle.”

Minister for Finance Courtney Houssos said:

“This is a critical piece of the puzzle in the Government’s plan to help families enter the housing market.

“Saving up to $30,000 on stamp duty means more money in the pockets of families and more opportunities for them to achieve the dream of home ownership.”

Member for The Entrance David Mehan said:

“The Minns Labor Government is helping people save tens of thousands of dollars on stamp duty which can be the difference between continuing to rent and finally owning a home.

“It’s fantastic to see so many first home buyers across the Central Coast getting real, practical cost of living relief that helps them take that first step into the housing market and build their future.”

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said:

“Already, 969 first-home buyers across Gosford have benefited from this important scheme, saving more than $20.6 million in total and turning the dream of home ownership into a reality.

“This scheme is just one of the ways that the Minns Labor Government is committed to addressing the cost of living across our community, ensuring that Coasties can realise the dream of home ownership and build a bright future right here on the Central Coast.”

Supports in place for a safe return to school in the wake of the antisemitic terror attack at Bondi Beach

As students prepare to return to the classroom today, the NSW Government is providing comprehensive support for schools affected by the antisemitic terror attack at Bondi Beach.

The NSW Government is committed to ensuring every student and teacher feels safe and supported as the school year begins, with resources available across public and non-government schools to ensure a unified approach to community recovery.

In the lead-up to the new school year, principals have been working closely with their staff to identify specific needs and ensure tailored support plans are in place before students arrive.

Dedicated mental health and wellbeing resources have been deployed to schools across the eastern suburbs and Bondi, including increased access to school counsellors and specialist psychologists.

To ensure the highest level of care, counselling staff have undergone intensive training in psychological first aid and trauma response.

This training was delivered by the highly respected clinical psychologist Dr Rob Gordon OAM, ensuring staff have the necessary tools to support students through the ongoing recovery process.

Additional counselling support will be available for any NSW school requiring assistance during the first weeks of the term.

Strengthened security measures are also in place at schools and early learning centres with large Jewish student populations.

Alongside these measures, the NSW Government is working with the Commonwealth’s Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism to implement a training program for teachers and school leaders to prevent and counter antisemitism.

Any parents and carers who have queries about support as their child returns to school are encouraged to discuss these with their school principal.

The NSW Government is working to ensure that the return to school is a safe and supportive experience for all students and teachers in the eastern suburbs and across the broader Jewish community.

This ongoing support is part of a broader commitment from the NSW and Commonwealth Governments, with approximately $60 million allocated to date for resilience and recovery initiatives for those affected by the attack.

Premier of NSW Chris Minns said:

“Many of our schools and early learning centres across Bondi and the eastern suburbs have been deeply affected by the antisemitic terrorist attack so we’re making sure that everyone affected has the support they need.

“Our message to everyone affected by this horrific attack is clear – we’re with you now and for the long haul.”

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

“Students and staff at all schools have the right to feel safe and secure as they return for the first day of term.

“Our schools have a range of support services available, as our community continues to recover and students return to their school routines.

“I encourage anyone who is finding the return to the classroom difficult to reach out for support.”

$2.5m Lung Bus arrives in Shellharbour to protect workers against dust diseases

The Minns Labor Government maintains its commitment to protect workers from dust diseases with its $2.5 million state-of-the -art Lung Health Mobile Clinic which is providing lung health checks to thousands of people across New South Wales.

The lung bus has arrived in Shellharbour to provide free lung screening checks. These lung health checks can be lifesaving by ensuring early detection and treatment of dust diseases like asbestosis, silicosis and mesothelioma.

The lung bus program provides free lung screening checks to more than 5,000 workers annually in regional NSW.

In collaboration with SafeWork, icare also supports the NSW Silica Worker Register (SWR), which helps identify and monitor workers who have been exposed to respirable crystalline silica across their working lives.

By linking registry data with services such as the mobile clinic, icare is helping ensure workers most at risk are prioritised for screening, follow-up care and specialist referral where needed.

Data from SafeWork NSW shows there have been 12,214 workers registered on the SWR from 597 businesses as at 31 December 2025, most of which are in the construction and manufacturing industries. Close to 3,850 workers are listed as working in tunnelling-related roles.

Launched on 1 October 2025, the SWR is used to help monitor and track the health of at-risk workers undertaking high-risk processing of crystalline silica substances (CSS).

In Shellharbour, 23 workers are currently on the Register and are being prioritised for screening due to potential occupational silica exposure.

Lung health checks are painless and only take around 30 minutes. The process includes chest X-rays to detect abnormalities or damage, lung function testing to assess respiratory performance, consultation with a specialist doctor, who interprets results and provides tailored advice and referral for a CT scan, if required, to get a better image of the chest and lungs.

The Lung Health Mobile Clinic will be located at Stockland Shellharbour, Lake Entrance Rd. on Monday 2 February.

Eliminating the risks associated with silica is a high priority for the Minns Government and the Lung Bus is one of several measures which have been introduced to reduce the risks of working with CSS in NSW.

These include:

  • Strengthening workplace safety through a Silica Worker Register (SWR) which monitors and tracks the health of at-risk workers undertaking high-risk processing of crystalline silica substances (CSS).
  • Leading the ban on engineered stone benchtops, panels and slabs containing one per cent or greater crystalline silica. This included a national ban on its importation from January 1, 2025.
  • Establishing the Tunnelling Dust Safety Taskforce to help address silica related health risks for workers in tunnelling projects. The Taskforce is made up of Government, medical, industry and union representatives and provides expert guidance to prevent and manage silica and other dust related disease associated with tunnelling projects in NSW.
  • Establishing a dedicated silica unit within SafeWork NSW which includes a Silica Compliance Team to enforce strengthened regulations, including proactive visits to sites conducting high-risk CSS processing.
  • Allocating $5 million in critical funding for silicosis research and a patient support program for individuals and their families navigating the health risks associated with exposure to silica dust. The grant funding, administered collaboratively by icare and the Dust Diseases Board, will be provided over three years to the Asbestos and Dust Diseases Research Institute (ADDRI).

Workers can also arrange a free lung screening at icare’s Sydney CBD Kent st clinic, or with local providers regionally when the lung bus is not in that part of the state.

To book a free lung health check, contact icare on 1800 550 027.

Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said:

“The icare Mobile Clinic underscores the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to removing barriers like cost and location, ensuring workers across NSW have access to the critical support and care they need to safeguard their health.

“The Lung Bus is another important step towards protecting workers from dust diseases and builds on the Government’s recent actions including the Silica Worker Register, the ban on engineered stone, the establishment of the Tunnelling Dust Safety Taskforce and a dedicated Silica unit within SafeWork NSW.

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

Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park said:

“The Lung Bus is a terrific initiative that plays a vital role in keeping workers safe and healthy.

“These health checks can be lifesaving by enabling the early detection and treatment of dust-related diseases.

“By bringing these essential services directly to the communities that need them most, the icare Lung Bus is helping to protect the health and futures of our workers.”

Member for Shellharbour Anna Watson said:

“We want to make sure that people in the Shellharbour electorate have access to the healthcare they need, when and where they need it.

“For too many, life gets in the way of regular check-ups so by bringing this service directly to the community, we’re removing one more barrier to staying healthy.

“Whether you’re working in construction, mining, manufacturing or just living in the area – we’re urging everyone to take a few minutes to get checked.”

Icare Group Executive of General Insurance and Care Sarah Johnson said:

“A lung health check could save your life.

“Early detection is critical to effective treatment, and we’re here to make sure every worker, no matter where they live, has access to world-class care.”