Category: NSW News

Home buyers and businesses can look forward to lower energy bills, with new sustainable building (BASIX) energy standards now in effect after extensive engagement with the building sector.

The NSW Government’s Sustainable Building State Environment Planning Policy (SEPP) offers developers and homeowners a wide choice of measures to achieve the new building standards.

Building Sustainability Index – or BASIX – standards were introduced in 2004, and last increased in 2017, to improve the energy and thermal performance of homes, providing better comfort, and energy and water efficiencies.

The new changes include:

• Raising thermal performance standards up to 7 stars as defined by the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS)
• Increasing emission reduction requirements by 7 to 11 per cent – depending on location and dwelling type; and
• Introducing mandatory assessment and reporting of building material emissions for every new home.

The new standard cuts thermal energy use by at least 20 per cent and will save homeowners on power bills. The changes can save considerable amounts of energy helping to make new homes more comfortable, particularly in the hotter areas of the State during summer.

Feedback gathered through extensive consultation before and since the SEPP was announced in August 2022 has helped to make sure the standards are cost-effective and minimise disruption to the building industry.

New homes already under contract before 1 October would be exempt from new sustainable building (BASIX) standards until 30 June 2024.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“These improved energy standards will provide significant cost savings for households on their electricity and gas bills.

“New homes built from 1 October onwards stand to save an average of almost $17,000 in energy bills over the lifetime of a standard 25-year home loan.

“Builders can use a wide range of options to meet the new standards – they can install more insulation, improve the performance and location of windows, select a more energy-efficient hot water system and install 3-star reverse cycle air-conditioning systems.

“Energy sustainability and modern construction improvements have come a long way over the last 15 years and it’s time we set new industry standards to help NSW achieve its target of reaching net zero target by 2050.

“The new BASIX standard is the very least we can do to produce modern houses equipped to withstand heat and cold.

“In a national first, the SEPP also introduces new sustainability measures, including new energy and water standards, for non-residential development like offices, libraries and schools, which will be responsible for 85% of all non-residential emissions by 2050.”

“Western Sydney was the hottest place on earth on some days last summer. The changes required are frankly the least needed to provide decent modern homes.

Gary Rake, CEO Australian Building Codes Board said:

“These increased BASIX standards provide benefits for young families, who could otherwise get trapped with a home that has a west-facing bedroom that is too hot for their young children to sleep in during summer. This means they would need to run the air conditioner more or spend money to add ceiling fans later.

“It’s also important to note that is a move from 6 Star to 7 Star, we’re not starting from zero. Our average cost analysis for Sydney was $11/sqm ($2,200 for a 200m2 house). Simple and affordable upgrades such as the installation of ceiling fans or better insulation can help a home meet the new standards.

“This improvement will be great for the people of NSW. New homes will be more able to withstand extreme weather conditions while providing a permanent improvement to the value of a house. The initial investment will retain its value when the house is sold. It also saves money for the homeowner or renter along the way through lower energy bills and improves comfort.

The NSW Government will undertake a review of retail trading laws on Anzac Day, to consider whether retail stores should remain closed for more of the public holiday.

Currently, traders such as supermarkets and fashion retailers are required to stay closed until 1pm on Anzac Day under the Retail Trading Act 2008.

Certain businesses are automatically exempt from the rule, such as pharmacies, petrol stations, markets, cafes and takeaway restaurants.

There has been debate in recent times about whether Anzac Day is being appropriately recognised and what, if anything, should be done to ensure all Australians have the opportunity to take part in commemorations.

Anzac Day marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War, landing in Gallipoli in 1915, and is one of Australia’s most important occasions.

The day is marked by a number of traditions, including dawn and sunset services, veteran marches, and wreath laying ceremonies.

Trading restrictions allow workers and business operators the opportunity to participate in commemorative and community events and pay their own respects.

Restrictions currently differ amongst Australian jurisdictions, with retail outlets open from early afternoon in some states (including NSW), closed all day in other states, while no restrictions are enforced in both territories.

The Government invites interested parties to share their views on the changes to trading hours on Anzac Day. This will help inform the government’s decision.

People and groups can upload a written submission through the NSW Government Have Your Say websitelaunch or via email to anzacdayretailtrading@customerservice.nsw.gov.aulaunch.

The closing date for submissions is 5pm, 20 October 2023. 

Minister for Industrial Relations, Sophie Cotsis said:

“I am looking forward to hearing from business groups, unions, RSLs and other stakeholders about how they feel about this potential change.

“We want to hear whether retail workers and other parties would appreciate a greater opportunity to commemorate Anzac Day in NSW.”

Hundreds of young women and their children in South Western Sydney will benefit from a $9 million investment aimed at improving their long term safety, resilience and wellbeing.

The NSW Government has partnered with the not-for-profit and private sector on a collaboration to provide early intervention services to support pregnant women and mothers under 25 and their children.

Minister for Families and Communities Kate Washington launched the service, Village Connect – A hub for parents, with partner agencies including health and wellbeing provider Sonder, Karitane and Uniting NSW.ACT.

The service integrates three key elements including Sonder’s 24/7 support app which is an easily accessible digital platform for information, as well as personal guidance via chat or phone.

The app diverts young parents from crisis situations, with trained professionals available 24/7.

Karitane and Uniting NSW.ACT will match clients with more complex needs to more intensive and tailored supports to address challenges faced by young parents.

Together, these services provide a holistic approach to meet a family’s needs when they arise and as their circumstances change.

The model, known as the Investment Approach for Social Impact Strategy (IAFSIS), is aimed at improving the lifetime outcomes for young parents and their children.

The Department of Communities and Justice will work closely with the Department of Education and NSW Health to deliver program outcomes and ensure sufficient wraparound supports are available.

A successful evaluation of the IAFSIS model may see it replicated across NSW.

Minister for Families and Communities, and Minister for Disability Inclusion, Kate Washington, said:

“It takes a village to raise a child and this initiative is bringing the village together to deliver support to young mums when they need it most.

“This innovative collaboration between the NSW Government, Sonder, Karitane and Uniting is designed to help young mums be the parent they want to be.

“We are collaborating to empower families by giving them the support they need during the difficult early days, so they stay strong, healthy and safely together.”

Advocate for Children and Young People, Zoe Robinson, said:

“This investment is a welcome step forward in supporting young parents and their children to thrive.

“The benefits of wrap around supports for these young families, will be evident for years to come.”

The NSW Government is investing $5 million over four years to support children and young people who have lost loved ones through homicide.

Grace’s Place is the world’s first residential trauma recovery centre providing tailored support for children impacted by violent crime.

It was named in honour of the late Grace Lynch, who became a strong voice for victims of crime following the murder of her daughter Anita Cobby.

Based in Doonside in western Sydney, Grace’s Place provides accommodation, counselling, and support for up to 12 children and their carers from NSW and across Australia.

Grace’s Place is managed by the Homicide Victims Support Group (HVSG), a critical service providing information and training to the public, police and professional bodies about what is required to support the needs of family members affected by homicide.

Minister for Families and Communities, and Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said:

“Grace’s Place is leading the nation, caring for children and young people who’ve seen the worst of humanity.

“Children who’ve lost a parent in the most horrific circumstances need intensive, holistic support and care.

“The NSW Government is backing Grace’s Place so traumatised children and young people get the support they need to heal and have hope for a brighter future.”

Homicide Victims Support Group Executive Director Martha Jabour said:

“Grace’s Place will be available for family members and their children 24/7.  No longer will police from the NSW Police Force have to find a place of respite and security for children at a crime scene. A phone call will allow us to look after the children left behind after these horrific crimes to get assistance in a safe and caring environment.

“Grace’s Place will be a beacon of hope for children confronting the horrors of homicide.

“Children who come to Grace’s Place will get help in dealing with the violence they have seen, heard, and felt. We will be able to help them process the death of someone they love in a domestic homicide surrounded by counsellors, support staff and their families.

“We are so pleased that the Government is helping us to make such a difference to the survival of children from a very young age.  We will have specific programs, therapy strategies and counselling programs to help children from the ages of 3 to 18 years of age.

 “NSW leads the way in helping children impacted by the horror of homicide, children from all over Australia are welcomed to come to Grace’s Place for assistance.”

MP for Blacktown, Stephen Bali said:

“Children impacted by the loss of a parent in tragic circumstances need a trauma focused approach to support and care.”

“Grace’s Place, through the dedication and vision of Martha Jabour, provide innovative and valuable care and support.”

“I applaud the Minister and the NSW Government for their investment and for supporting these children and young people.”

Water rescue first responders are preparing for a hot and busy summer ahead, as they mark the commencement of the 2023/24 boating season this Labour Day long weekend.

NSW Maritime, Marine Rescue NSW, NSW Police Marine Area Command, and Surf Life Saving NSW have converged on Botany Bay near Sans Souci to highlight the inter-agency cooperation needed to keep waterways safe.

This coincides with a NSW Maritime statewide operation over the long weekend to educate boaters about safety, ensure they meet licencing requirements and check they are appropriately equipped for a safe day on the water.

Predictions of a hot and dry summer have been confirmed with the declaration of an El Nino climate driver, putting water rescue groups on alert for another busy season on the state’s coastal and inland waterways.

Last year, there were 11 boating-related fatalities on NSW waterways and 48 drownings along the state’s coastline.

The NSW Government is committed to ensuring our emergency services and first responders have all the tools they need to keep the marine community safe, including specialised training and the latest technology.

To help lift the capability of rescue services, three new Marine Rescue NSW rescue watercraft (jet skis) will soon be operational on Sydney waterways, with two of these to be used on Botany Bay and Port Hacking. These small and maneuverable watercraft will allow for rescues in areas larger vessels cannot reach, such as those close to the coastline.

The boating season launch coincides with the conclusion of National Safe Boating Week, which this year highlighted the importance of wearing the right type of lifejacket and knowing how to maintain it.

For the latest water safety informationlaunch

More information on boating in NSW

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:

“This long weekend marks the start of what we expect to be a very busy season for our personnel and volunteers. We urge people to act responsibly and look out for each other in and around our waterways so we can all enjoy and make the most of a safe boating season.”

“Seeing Marine Rescue NSW, NSW Maritime, NSW Police Marine Area Command and Surf Life Saving NSW join forces on Botany Bay today provides an opportunity to recognise the people working tirelessly to keep us all safe on the water, and we ask the community to also prioritise safety while having fun this summer.”

“Each team has different strengths, capabilities and areas of focus, but we are all united when it comes to safety on NSW waterways.”

Minister for Police Yasmin Catley said:

“There’s nothing better than a hot summer day out on the water but it’s important that we stay safe while having fun.”

“I know the NSW Police Force Marine Area Command will be working around the clock this summer to help keep our waterways safe and I thank them for the important work they do.”

NSW Maritime Executive Director Mark Hutchings said:

“We’re calling on all skippers to check their vessels and safety equipment. Lots of boats will have been sitting idle over winter, so it’s crucial to give them a proper once over before heading out on the water.”

“We still see too many boaters without a lifejacket. Sadly, all five boating deaths this financial year were people not wearing a lifejacket. Our message is simple – service your lifejacket, take your lifejacket, and wear your lifejacket – it can only save you if you wear it.”

NSW Police Force Marine Area Commander Acting Superintendent Siobhan Munro said:

“We know that when the temperatures rise, the community flocks to our waterways so we are putting people on notice that police will be patrolling all the state’s waterways including dams and rivers and any dangerous and anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated.”

“We will be conducting drug and alcohol testing as well as compliance checks – so make sure that your vessel is in good working order, know your vessel’s capabilities and don’t go beyond its limits. Our goal is to get you home safely.”

Marine Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner Darren Schott said:

“Marine Rescue NSW is coming off its busiest year on record with volunteers completing more than 4,500 rescue missions across the state.”

“Always wear a lifejacket and log on with Marine Rescue NSW, if you don’t return as planned, we will initiate a search.”

Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce said:

“We are headed for an extremely hot and dry summer and are expecting a major surge in numbers on beaches and waterways this season.”

“Swim between the flags, make sure you supervise your children, wear a lifejacket where it’s necessary, and if you do that, we’ll have a great summer and keep everyone safe.”

Experienced corporate executive, councillor and former NSW Deputy State Director, Richard Shields, has been appointed as the NSW Division’s State Director.

Party Member for almost three decades, Richard brings extensive political and corporate experience to building successful state and federal Liberal campaigns. He has worked as an advisor for former federal Ministers Andrew Thomson and Senator Helen Coonan in the Howard Government, and headed up government relations for the Insurance Council of Australia and the Westpac Group.

Richard is also an experienced campaigner, working on numerous successful local, state and federal election campaigns.

“Since my first taste of political and campaign success as the President of the UNSW Liberal Club, I have been committed to the success of the Liberal Party,” said Mr Shields. “It is an honour and a privilege to lead the professional wing of our Party.”

“I bring to the role decades of political and campaign experience, and I look forward to using this experience to assist our Party in winning the next federal and state elections.”

“Labor’s failure to develop a plan addressing cost of living crisis and deal with the significant economic challenges facing NSW and Australia make the next federal and state elections winnable.”

“I look forward to working with the President, Jason Falinski to continue building our Party, and with the help of our members identifying future political candidates that best represent our diverse community.”

Chris Stone thanked the NSW Liberal Party Members and MPs for their support and encouragement over his years with the NSW Division.

“My years working for the NSW Liberal Party have been some of the most satisfying in my career,” Mr Stone said. “I am grateful for the incredible opportunities that I’ve had and the relationships that have been forged in the heat of campaigns.”

“As State Director I have had the honour of contributing to the victories of governments that have changed our state and our nation for the better. I’ve also had the opportunity to serve and support our Party Members, which is a particularly treasured part of my role.”

NSW Liberal Party President Jason Falinski said Richard Shields is an experienced and incredibly capable campaigner who will be able to take the organisation in a positive direction.
 
“The Party is in great hands with someone of Richard’s calibre, someone who has both the political experience and the ability to successfully deal with organisational challenges that face all large political parties.”
 
Mr Falinski also offered deep thanks to the outgoing State Director Chris Stone for his outstanding and dedicated service.
 
“On behalf of all Members of the NSW Division, I cannot thank Chris enough for the magnificent job he’s done in often challenging circumstances. He has been a devoted servant of the Liberal Party, and we continue to value his sage advice and look forward to his continuing involvement with the Party.”
 
NSW Opposition Leader Mark Speakman congratulated Richard Shields on his appointment as the NSW State Director.

“I have known Richard for many years,” Mr Speakman said. “As the Parliamentary Party holds the Minns Labor Government to account over its numerous broken promises, I look to Richard’s strong effort leading the Party secretariat to support this work.”

“I would also like to thank Chris for his tremendous work over the years for our Party. His multiple state and federal campaign victories for our Party will not be easily equalled.”
 
Federal Opposition Leader Peter Duttton welcomed Richard’s appointment and thanked our out going State Director.
 
“We need a strong Party organisation in the lead up to the next federal election; with Richard leading our team in NSW, we will be ready to campaign on our vision for a better Australia under a Liberal government.”
“He has big shoes to fill, and I thank Chris Stone for all of his work for the Liberal Party as an adviser, campaigner and indeed State Director.”

Expressions of interest are now open for Aboriginal organisations to apply for the next round of Community and Place Grants.

$10 million funding for the grants, to deliver immediate and tangible on-ground activities to support Closing the Gap, were confirmed in the first Minns Labor budget handed down on Tuesday 19 September.

In launching the grant round, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs David Harris said Aboriginal controlled organisations could apply for up to $250,000 in funding for new programs, infrastructure, equipment and vehicles.

“Aboriginal organisations know what their communities need to thrive and that is why this grants program is so important,” Mr Harris said.

“It gives Aboriginal communities a direct say and direct access to funding to make tangible differences on the ground.

“We know that to close the gap, Aboriginal people must determine, drive and own the desired outcomes in partnership with government and that is exactly what this program is all about.

The Closing the Gap NSW Implementation Plan 2022– 2024launch commits to drive tangible change against all 5 Priority Reform areas and 17 Socio Economic Outcome targets agreed in the National Agreement on Closing the Gap. Community and Place grants support communities to deliver locally led solutions. $10 million in funding is available in this round.

Applications will be assessed via a 2-step process:

• Stage 1: EOI from Monday 2 October to 30 October 2023. EOI applications will be assessed for eligibility and program alignment, with applications being approved to provide a full application by AANSW Deputy Secretary.
• Stage 2: Full applications from 4 December 2023 to 29 January 2024.
• Projects must be delivered between 1 July 2024 and 30 June 2025. 

Closing the Gap is a top priority for the Minns Labor government. The first Minns Labor government budget delivers $1.5 billion in targeted programs across the whole of government to Close the Gap and empower Aboriginal communities across NSW.

“We know that when Aboriginal people have a direct say on issues that affect them, we get better outcomes, and that is what we intend to do in government,” Mr Harris said.

Details of the grant program can be found at Aboriginal Affairs NSW: Grantslaunch.

The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability handed down its final report yesterday.

The NSW Government is reviewing the report, its findings and recommendations.

The final report, which has been made public today, makes 222 recommendations covering a wide range of issues and systems to strengthen the rights and inclusion of people with disability.

Since 2019, the royal commission held 32 public hearings, examined 837 witnesses, and received more than 10,000 submissions.  

The Department of Communities and Justice and the Disability Council NSW are co-convening a forum with stakeholders from the disability sector on October 23 to discuss the royal commission’s findings.

Minister for Families and Communities and Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington will attend the forum.

The NSW Government’s formal response to the royal commission’s final report will be provided within the next 6 months.

Minister for Families and Communities and Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said:

“Over the past 4 years, the royal commission has shone a light on the serious abuse, exclusion and injustice that people with disability face across our society.

“The fact that so many people with disability came forward to speak with the royal commission shows that these issues are far too common, and we all have to do better.

“The NSW Government is grateful to every person with disability, their families and communities, who shared their stories with the royal commission.

“We want to honour everyone’s contribution to the royal commission by carefully and methodically considering each of the 222 recommendations.”

Today we honour and remember all the people of the NSW Police Force who have died in the line of duty.

September 29th holds special significance across Australia and the Pacific as National Police Remembrance Day.

It is a day to reflect and pay tribute to the bravery of those who dedicate their lives to protect, serve and keep their communities safe.

No new names have been added to the NSW Wall of Remembrance this year, but we pause to remember Constable Matthew Joseph Arnold and Constable Rachel Clare McCrow of the Queensland Police Force and Constable Anthony Woods of the Western Australia Police Force who died while performing their duties in the previous 12 months.

We pay our respects to 14 serving members of the NSW Police Force who have passed away in the previous 12 months and remember the 275 names already inscribed on the Wall.

The annual National Police Remembrance Day service was today held at the NSW Police Wall of Remembrance in the Domain.

Premier, Chris Minns and Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley attended alongside Acting NSW Police Commissioner, Dave Hudson, Lieutenant-Governor of NSW, His Excellency the Honourable Andrew Bell and other distinguished guests.

Premier Chris Minns said:

“Police Remembrance Day is a reminder to the entire community of the dangers police officers face every day.

“We owe police a great debt of gratitude and we pay tribute to all the officers we have lost.

“Today is not only about honouring the officers who have died but also showing our support to all serving officers.  We thank you for your commitment to serve our community.”

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said:

“We can never forget those who have paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.

“The NSW Police Force do an outstanding job day in, day out. They have a tough job but do it with such dedication, compassion and commitment and for that we thank them.”

“Our thoughts go out to the grieving families of our fallen officers. The scale of their loss is difficult to conceive but the NSW Police family is there to support them.”

Acting NSW Police Commissioner Dave Hudson said:

“Each year on 29 September, we pause to remember these officers for their courage and selfless dedication to protecting the community.

“We also pay our respects to the families, friends and colleagues left behind, who will forever mourn the loss of their loved one.

Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

The NSW Government has partnered with 2 giants of medical research, The Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research and the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute to form a strategic partnership and cardiovascular research hub in south western Sydney.

Minister for Medical Research David Harris, who attended the launch, said the aim of the new hub is to make a life-saving impact where it’s needed most, driving changes, and boosting heart disease research.

“This new collaborative hub, the first of its kind in Australia, will be a vital tool in boosting NSW’s reputation as a global centre of innovative heart disease research,” Mr Harris said.

“The hub will enable research to progress faster and deliver new treatments and medications that will improve the lives of people living in southwest Sydney, who have higher risk factors for cardiovascular disease, as well as people living right across Australia.”

This innovative hub made possible with strong support from South Western Sydney Local Health District (SWSLHD) and UNSW Sydney, will significantly boost heart disease research and accelerate future scientific breakthroughs in a region with the highest heart-related hospital admissions in the state.

The partnership will see a new Chair in Cardiovascular Research established by the Ingham Institute, the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, SWSLHD and UNSW Sydney. The goal is to appoint a world-class academic clinician-researcher, to be based at Liverpool Hospital, who will drive new research to improve the substantial burden of cardiovascular disease in south western Sydney.

The chair will provide academic and clinical leadership, foster excellence in collaborative cardiovascular research, innovative teaching, and clinical care. The partnership will also see the development of a team of researchers that will be based at the Ingham Institute, a world-class centre for clinical trials. The research team will have direct access to the expertise and cutting-edge technology of the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute.

Member for Liverpool Charishma Kaliyanda said the establishment of the hub reinforces Liverpool as a fast-growing centre for innovation and research in health.

“The work being done at Ingham Applied Medical Research is game-changing and this partnership with the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute will save lives in south-west Sydney.

“The NSW government has committed $150 million over 10 years to support cardiovascular research. As part of this investment, $8.7 million has been allocated to 9 research projects involving expert multidisciplinary teams from several research institutions. Three of these grants include research teams from the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute and the Ingham Institute.

“Investment in medical research is critical for driving scientific discoveries and supporting the development of innovative therapies to improve health outcomes for all Australians and I am proud to be a part of a government that sees that.

“By attracting quality researchers from interstate and overseas, we are boosting the NSW economy, attracting larger proportions of national research funding to the state, and making NSW the premier state for heart health research in Australia.”