Category: NSW News

Construction has begun on Moruya High School’s brand new $7 million support unit, while another $13 million in upgrades is on the way for the school as part of the Minns Labor Government’s work to rebuild public education and ensure students in regional NSW have access to every opportunity to achieve their full potential.

The new support unit will contain seven permanent support classrooms with practical activities areas, breakout spaces, an outdoor play area, a covered outdoor learning area (COLA), accessible toilet and change rooms, laundry, kitchen, and staff room and a new access road with undercover drop-off area and car-parking facilities for the precinct.

Member for Bega Dr Michael Holland turned the first sod to mark the start of construction on the project, which is due for completion by Term 2 next year, replacing five demountables.

The new support unit will benefit and better support students with disabilities, ensuring all students have access to the same educational opportunities.

Moruya High School is also one of the 33 schools across NSW to receive a share of a $100 million investment from the NSW Government as part of the High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) partner schools program.   

Under the program, Moruya High School will receive facility upgrades to accommodate increased enrolments, broaden educational opportunities and facilitate the delivery of tailored HPGE course offerings. The work will include:

• Upgrades to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) classrooms, Technology and Applied Studies (TAS) classrooms and music room, performance area and sound studio.
• Sports court upgrade including new court surface, fencing and line marking
• Updating the science lab, library and administration buildings.
• Installing air conditioning across the school.
• Improvements to senior lockers, a new covered walkway and automated front gate.

These upgrades will provide state-of-the-art classrooms and facilities that promise to challenge all students to achieve their full potential.

In addition to the new support unit and HPGE upgrades at Moruya High School, families in the Bega area can look forward to improved public schools under the Minns Labor Government, including HPGE upgrades at Batemans Bay High School and a new school hall for Mogo Public School.

This work is part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to rebuild public education, with a record $2.1 billion in the 2025-26 Budget for new and upgraded schools in regional NSW.

Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos said:

“This much-needed support unit is a major investment in the future of public education for families in Moruya and provides local students with the state-of-the-art facilities they deserve.

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to delivering vital school upgrades our students need to thrive, whether through modern support classrooms or specialist facilities to deliver High Potential and Gifted opportunities. These upgrades are all about ensuring local students have access to every opportunity to achieve their full potential.

“Moruya High School is one of 33 schools across the state to benefit from our HPGE program delivering upgrades to facilitate high potential and gifted education opportunities in every public school.” 

Member for Bega Dr Michael Holland said:

“I am delighted to see construction underway on the $7 million fit-for-purpose support unit at Moruya High School. This project represents a major investment in our community and a vital upgrade to support students with disabilities and additional needs.

“The new facility will replace five ageing demountables with a modern, purpose-built precinct featuring seven permanent classrooms, practical learning spaces, outdoor play areas, and improved accessibility. This will provide students with the safe and supportive environment they deserve.

“Every student should have the same opportunity to reach their potential. This support unit will not only enhance learning but also ensure that families in Moruya and across the region know their children are being given the best chance to thrive.”

Principal Moruya High School Mark English said:

“I am very excited to get this wonderful purpose-built facility that will provide outstanding opportunities for our staff to meet the needs of our students in a support setting.

“Building this support unit will provide equity for our students so they can prosper and grow to be the best they can be.

“I am thrilled to get the HPGE funding to upgrade our facilities to support our HPGE initiatives at Moruya High School. All of our students will have access to world class performance facilities and learning spaces so they can learn and develop in all domains of HPGE.”

The community has been given its first look at the design for the state-of-the-art new Bankstown Hospital, part of a record investment to deliver enhanced healthcare and facilities for South-West Sydney communities.

While this is an important milestone, the Government has also made it clear we have work to do when it comes to health in Western Sydney.

The Minns Labor Government is investing $2 billion for the new Bankstown Hospital to help meet the future healthcare needs of our fast-growing and diverse community.

The concept designs showcase the new multi-storey building, which will house acute services including emergency, operating theatres and inpatient wards, enhancing access to healthcare services.

The design also features the hospital’s emergency department entry and main entry plaza, which will include green space and connect seamlessly with its Chapel Road location in Bankstown’s city centre, close to bus and train services and the future Sydney Metro.

The vibrant, city-shaping design ensures inpatient wards on the upper levels have maximum light and views, while the ground levels are well-connected to the nearby city.

The project is currently in the early planning stage, which has been informed by consultation with more than 1,000 staff, patients and community members through workshops, surveys and information sessions.

As part of the 2025-26 State Budget, the Minns Labor Government announced an additional $700 million for the new Bankstown Hospital, bringing the total investment to $2 billion, making it the largest single capital works investment in a public hospital in the state’s history.

Scope of the new Bankstown Hospital will be finalised through the planning process but is anticipated to include:

• Emergency department
• Operating theatres
• Intensive care
• Surgical and medical services
• Health services for women and children including maternity
• Mental health
• Ambulatory care
• Aged health
• New multi-storey car park and on-ground parking
• Other clinical services to be defined as planning progresses

In the coming months, further opportunities for staff and the community to provide feedback are planned to help inform the ongoing planning and design of the new hospital.

The NSW Government is also investing $100 million to relocate the TAFE NSW Bankstown campus to enable construction of the new hospital.

TAFE NSW will relocate most of its training delivery to the new Western Sydney University Tower, across the road from the existing Bankstown campus. This will ensure local staff and students can still access brand new facilities and bespoke teaching and learning spaces in the heart of the Bankstown CBD.

The 2025-26 NSW Budget includes $1.3 billion of additional funding to support the delivery of health facilities across Western Sydney including:  

• Additional State funding of $90 million to provide the full range of maternity and birthing services as part of the new Rouse Hill Hospital, with a further $120 million announced by the Commonwealth Government towards new the Rouse Hill Hospital development;
• $120 million for additional beds for Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals
• $492 million to develop a Statewide Pathology Hub on the Westmead campus;
• $40.1 million to fit out level 13 of the new Paediatric Services Building at Westmead in partnership with the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation.
• $22.3 million to establish a new paediatric hospice at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead.

Other projects in the Western Sydney region include upgrades at Nepean, Liverpool, Canterbury, Fairfield, Camden and Campbelltown hospitals. The new Bankstown Hospital is being delivered by South Western Sydney Local Health District and Health Infrastructure.

For more information on the New Bankstown Hospital and to provide feedback visit: http://nsw.gov.au/newbankstownhospital

Premier Chris Minns:

“We know that Western Sydney hospitals have been under significant pressure, and while this investment is a major step forward, there’s still more work to do to ensure patients and staff get the facilities and support they deserve.”

“This is the largest single capital works investment in a public hospital in NSW’s history. It’s a clear demonstration of our commitment to Western Sydney — but it’s also just part of the work we have ahead of us.

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“We still have a lot of work to do, but we’re getting on with the job to deliver this world-class health facility, tailored to address the future health care needs of the growing Bankstown community.

“Staff and community consultation is an essential part of the planning and design process and I’m so grateful for our hard-working health staff and clinicians who’ve already provided valuable input.”

Jihad Dib, Member for Bankstown:

“Located in the heart of the Bankstown CBD, near the university and close to transport, including the future Sydney Metro, the new Bankstown Hospital will provide job opportunities and the highest level of care for our community.”

Kylie Wilkinson, Member for East Hills:

“We’re building this brand new health care facility in Bankstown from the ground up, ensuring its design reflects the needs of our community.”

Member for Auburn Lynda Voltz:

“The new Bankstown Hospital will transform healthcare for South-West communities by providing contemporary healthcare services and facilities, while also helping to attract and retain staff through modern, purpose-built health infrastructure.”

Consultation is now open and Transport for NSW is seeking feedback from road users and the community on their experiences travelling along and accessing the M1 Princes Motorway between Picton Road and the base of Mount Ousley.

The Albanese and Minns governments have jointly committed $10 million towards planning for options to improve the safety and reliability of this five-kilometre section of the M1 Princes Motorway.

Site investigations will be carried out in coming months and will be used in conjunction with community feedback to inform planning and development of upgrade options.

Early investigations may include Aboriginal heritage and cultural investigations, biodiversity and environmental studies, traffic studies, surveys, and utility and geotechnical investigations.

Transport for NSW will use data gathered from early investigations and feedback received from the community to develop a number of options.

Transport will continue to keep the community informed as updates on the project are available. Transport will collate and consider the feedback received during the have your say consultation period and prepare a summary outlining what we heard by early 2026.

Feedback can be provided up until 11.59pm on Monday 20 October 2025 by visiting www.transport.nsw.gov.au/mtousleysri  

Funding for delivery of improvements will be sought after the planning is complete.

Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park:

“The Albanese and Minns governments are committed to improving the safety, reliability and resilience of the road corridor connecting the Illawarra region and Greater Metropolitan Sydney via the M1 Princes Motorway and Picton Road / Hume Motorway.

“With both the construction of the Mount Ousley interchange and planning for the Picton Road upgrade well underway, we are looking at what improvements can be made to the five-kilometre stretch of the M1 Princes Motorway in between.

“Community feedback will play a vital role in the development of options to improve this stretch of road and we encourage all road users and local residents to share their experiences.”

Member for Wollongong Paul Scully:

“Mount Ousley and Picton Road play crucial roles in passenger and freight movements in and out of the Illawarra.

“Over the coming years freight movements will grow and so too will the number of people travelling from south-west Sydney to the Illawarra for jobs and recreation so it is important that we understand motorists experiences when planning future upgrades.

“Over the coming months site investigations will take place to understand the existing site conditions and this will be coupled with feedback from the community to better inform the development of upgrade options.”

Member for Cunningham Alison Byrnes:

“We are working hard across all levels of government to ensure that our road corridors are safer and more reliable.

“As part of this, it is vital that the community’s voice is heard so that the changes we make see the best outcome for community.

“We have been listening to that feedback already as part of the Mount Ousley Interchange project, and I am pleased that the Australian and NSW governments are actively listening to the community for the ongoing work that needs to be done throughout this corridor.

“Thank you to everyone who has contributed to our work so far, and I look forward to continuing to work constructively across government and community to modernise our roads and make them safer for the future.”

Train passengers and staff will be less at risk from lithium-ion battery fires as a result of a ban on converted e-bikes on the NSW rail network.

Converted e-bikes are defined as regular pedal bikes that have been fitted with batteries and motors. These have higher risk of electrical failure due and fire risk due to DIY installations, inadequate wiring and use of second-hand batteries and incompatible or poor-quality components. 

Other e-bikes, shared e-bikes and mobility devices will not be impacted, however Transport for NSW will continue to monitor all e-micromobility incidents closely. The decision will not apply to travel on concourses, lifts, escalators, or bike storage facilities outside of the fare gates. Riders passing through community access gates will not be impacted. 

The growing popularity of e-bikes has meant a greater prevalence on our train network. Due to the risk of e-bike lithium-ion batteries igniting, and the additional risk posed by poorly made and modified devices, it will be illegal to take a converted e-bike on Sydney Trains, NSW Trainlink and Metro services from 1 November.

Carriage of a restricted converted e-bike would carry a penalty notice offence of $400 with a maximum penalty of 10 penalty units ($1,110). This is comparable to the existing offence for carrying a petrol-powered device on a train or railway premises. Ahead of the ban coming into effect, passengers are being asked not to bring any converted e-bikes on these services.

The move comes after extensive consultation with the rail and fire authorities, unions, e-bike users, delivery services, shared scheme operators and passengers. That engagement included a Transport for NSW Have Your Say consultation that received around 3000 responses, and a ministerial reference group with key stakeholders. We thank all parties who took part in the consultation.

Transport has been monitoring the risk of lithium-ion fires after two recent e-bike fires at Liverpool Station in August, Blacktown Station in April (which involved a converted e-bike) and on a Melbourne suburban train in March. So far this year Fire and Rescue NSW have reported 77 e-micromobility related lithium-ion battery fires.

To support the ban of converted e-bikes on trains, Transport will provide additional training for staff, conduct hotspot blitzes, and increase public messaging about the fire risk of modified devices.

To improve standards across all e-bikes, the NSW and Victorian Transport Ministers have written a joint letter to the Commonwealth Government requesting their support in strengthening Australia’s approach to the safety of e-devices, to ensure that all devices imported, sold and used in Australia are safe and fit for purpose.

The NSW Government recognises the increasingly important role e-micromobility devices will play in the future of public transport, including the ability to mode shift and complete the ‘last mile’ between metro and train stations and destinations. In order to safely integrate e-bikes the government is currently drafting legislation to better regulate shared devices.
 
Minster for Transport John Graham said:

“We take the safety of our rail passengers and staff very seriously which is why we are taking the highest risk e-bikes out of train carriages.

“The overwhelming message from the consultation was that banning all e-bikes from trains would go too far. Taking out the highest risk e-bikes is a sensible and balanced step, but we will watch this space very closely and take further action if necessary.

“E-bikes are becoming more popular and playing an increasing role in our transport network. Our aim is to allow people to enjoy their advantages whilst keeping everyone safe.

“It’s a timely reminder ahead of Christmas – if you’re thinking of getting an e-bike, take a look at the Fair Trading website and look for a quality bike, to make sure you’re investing in safety.” 

Transport for NSW Secretary Josh Murray said:

“Electronic devices have transformed the way we live, work, and commute – but without boundaries, some have also introduced new risks and the potential to disrupt our safe rail operations. 

“This isn’t a matter of jumping at shadows. Our safety experts have been monitoring this emerging situation very closely, and we’re taking a sensible approach in consultation with our rail and transport operators. 

“We urge people to purchase good quality e-bikes that comply with minimum product safety standards and avoid any modification to their bike. 

“Put simply, the idea of blocked aisles, confined spaces and battery fires from risky devices don’t mix.” 

The Minns Labor Government has released the state’s most advanced Biosecurity Action Plan to protect landscapes, livestock and crops from pests, weeds and biosecurity threats to ensure our $20 billion per annum primary industries sector can increase its economic growth.

Australia and NSW are under pressure from complex and costly biosecurity threats, and it is critical that the state’s biosecurity system is strong, effective and responsive now and into the future.

The Minns Government has made it clear that strengthening the state’s resilience and protection against biosecurity threats is a priority. This has been demonstrated by establishing NSW’s first Independent Biosecurity Commissioner and $1.05 billion funding in this year’s budget.

To ensure that NSW has the best biosecurity system available the Minns Government has commissioned a comprehensive review of biosecurity programs, governance and performance.

In a two-pronged approach the Natural Resources Commission reviewed invasive species management, and the Independent Biosecurity Commissioner examined compliance, enforcement and governance performance to recommend improvements for pest and weed management.

In response to these reviews, the Minns Government has designed a system wide improvement that will be guided through the new Biosecurity Action Plan over 2025 and 2026 to enable swift and effective work that includes the following:

• Establish a State Biosecurity Committee to enable a more rapid and better coordinated cross-government approach to biosecurity, and response to outbreaks and emergencies. The Committee will also produce a State Biosecurity Strategy that all government agencies will play a role in implementing.
• Strengthen surveillance, diagnostics and emergency responses by training 200 additional staff to respond to biosecurity emergencies, increase research efforts and upgrade the state’s primary biosecurity research centre.
• Improve biosecurity compliance across industries and landholders by enhancing the Government’s efforts in inspections, audits, investigations and enforcement.
• Implement a new statewide invasive species plan delivering multi-year resourcing, better coordination of agencies’ programs, and prioritise reduction of biosecurity risks at a landscape scale.
• Transition to a $40.7 million four-year Weeds Action Program that provides greater certainty for Local Control Authorities and improves weed management outcomes.
• Increase education and awareness for businesses, land managers and producers so they better understand their biosecurity responsibilities with clear regulatory guidelines.

The Biosecurity Action Plan NSW can be found here.

The NSW Government’s response to the NRC’s report is available on the NRC’s website and the Independent Biosecurity Commissioner’s reports and the Government’s responses can be found at the Commissioner’s website.

Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said:

“Biosecurity is a Minns Government priority and we are now releasing this Biosecurity Action Plan to further evolve the state’s system to become the best available and leading the way not just in Australia but globally.

“While we have already delivered the state’s first independent Biosecurity Commissioner, the first feral pig coordinator, a historic $1.05 billion in funding and $40.7 million, four-year funding for the Weeds Action Program, we know there is more work to do.

“The former Government left our biosecurity system in a terrible mess and underfunded, and the Minns Government has stepped up to increase funding and brought in expert advice to reform this critical area of endeavour.

“This highly practical and measurable plan demonstrates our commitment to protecting our primary industries from biosecurity threats, by strengthening our surveillance and compliance, boosting research, and increasing support for farmers and landholders.

“Biosecurity is everyone’s responsibility, and this Action Plan frames how government agencies, businesses and private landholders can better comply with their biosecurity duties and build the most effective biosecurity system possible.

“While we have been developing this plan, the Minns Government has got on with the job of cracking down on non-compliant businesses, eradicating feral pigs and giving regional councils the funding they need to combat noxious weeds plaguing paddocks and riverbanks.”

Darren Cleary will be the new Chief Executive of Sydney Water, ushering in a new era of strategic planning and delivery for the organisation.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to building the sustainable future of our water systems and keeping Sydney Water in public hands.

As one of the state’s most important publicly owned utilities, Sydney Water will continue to deliver essential services from every household and business across Greater Sydney and the Illawarra.

With proven success in operational excellence and environmental stewardship, Mr Cleary emerged as the clear candidate to lead Sydney Water.

Mr Cleary brings decades of experiences in the water utility sector, including more than ten years in executive leadership.

As Chief Executive of Hunter Water since 2020, Mr Cleary successfully improved water security for the region through investment in the Belmont Desalination plant, creation of the Lower Hunter Water Security Plan and delivery of a $1 billion capital program.

Mr Cleary will begin in the role from 17 November. 

Minister for Water Rose Jackson said:

“I’m thrilled to announce the appointment of Darren Cleary and look forward to watching Sydney Water thrive under his leadership.

“As a trusted public face with a wealth of experience, the future of Sydney Water as a reliable, sustainable, customer-focused organisation is in good hands with Darren.

“I’d also like to thank Paul Plowman who has been Acting Chief Executive since March for his service.”

Chair of the Sydney Water Board, the Hon. Niall Blair said:

“After a comprehensive recruitment process, the board was excited to recommend Darren Cleary to Minister Jackson for appointment as CEO.  He was stand out candidate amongst a very high calibre field of applicants.

“As a former employee of Sydney Water, Darren is no stranger to our organisation and we warmly welcome him back. With a decade of executive leadership in the Water sector in NSW, he joins us at a critical time as we embark on our extensive capital infrastructure program and continue to deliver on the needs of our 5.4 million customers who rely on our water services every day.

“The board also appreciates and thanks Paul Plowman for his dedication and efforts as acting CEO.”

The Albanese and Minns Governments are forging ahead with one of the Hunter’s most significant infrastructure projects, with the final girders now in place on the new northbound bridge over Ironbark Creek (Toohrnbing) on the Hexham Straight Widening.

A total of 65 girders have been lifted into place by a 400-tonne crane. Each girder weighs around 20 tonnes – equivalent to the weight of 10 family cars – and forms the foundation of the new threelane northbound bridge.

The Hexham Straight upgrade is a key part of the $2.2 billion M1 Pacific Motorway Extension to Raymond Terrace, jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments.

With around 50,000 vehicles using this stretch of road each day, the project aims to relieve congestion, improve safety and provide more reliable travel for both commuters and freight operators.

Transport for NSW and its delivery partners – an alliance of Georgiou, Daracon Contractors and SMEC – are now focused on completing the bridge deck, installing barriers and progressing final road surfacing.

The new northbound bridge is expected to open to traffic by early 2026, weather permitting.

This six-kilometre upgrade between the Newcastle Inner City Bypass and Hexham Bridge will see the current two-lane dual carriageway widened to three lanes in each direction, removing a wellknown bottleneck and helping to future-proof the region’s road network.

Motorists are already seeing the transformation take shape, and more changes will become visible as construction continues. Some temporary lane closures and speed reductions will be required at times, with updates available through Live Traffic NSW.

The M1 Pacific Motorway Extension to Raymond Terrace includes the Hexham Straight Widening and is being delivered with $1.8 billion from the Australian Government and $448 million from the NSW Government. The entire upgrade is expected to open to traffic in 2026.

Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison:

“There will be no sub-par work on this project. This is one of the most important road corridors in the Hunter, and we are building infrastructure that will last – not just for today, but for decades to come.

“In the 1870’s, the first timber truss bridge was opened over Ironbark Creek, connecting Newcastle to Maitland.

“Now we’re seeing the final girder placed on a brand new, modern bridge that will carry this connection forward for generations.”

Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon:

“This is an exciting step forward on one of Newcastle and the Hunter’s most critical road projects.

“Once complete, this upgrade will make trips faster, safer, and more reliable for the more than 50,000 motorists who use this stretch every day.

“We’re delivering real progress on this long-awaited project, and this milestone brings us another step closer to the finish line.”

Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson:

“The final girder lift is a major step forward for the Hexham Straight upgrade – a project that will ease congestion, improve safety, and support local jobs right here in our region.

“I’m proud to see this progress delivered thanks to a strong collaboration between the Australian and NSW Governments. With $1.8 billion in federal funding, the M1 Pacific Motorway Extension to Raymond Terrace project is a major investment in our region’s future – and the Hexham Straight Widening is a critical step towards its completion.

“A big thank you to all the commuters for your patience during construction, and to the incredible roadworkers and project teams for their hard work in making the Hexham Straight Widening a reality.”

Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp:

“It’s fantastic to see the Hexham Straight Widening project ticking off another significant milestone.

“Motorists will be able to see the bridge come together before their very eyes over the next few months as our teams continue carrying out this important upgrade.”

Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery:

“A big well done to the Hexham Straight Widening team who have worked tirelessly on upgrading this important stretch of the Pacific Highway.

“Once complete, this project will improve traffic flow for motorists and freight which mean safer journeys and more reliable travel times.”

Regional NSW disaster response and recovery operations will be strengthened as the Minns Labor Government delivers new high clearance vehicles and light flood rescues to across the state. 

vehicles are part of the NSW Government’s fleet replacement program, ensuring NSW State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers have the latest, purpose-built equipment to keep communities safe.

Included in this year’s flood rescue fleet upgrades are 10 new High Clearance Vehicles with cranes and specialised equipment worth $800,000 each and 11 light flood rescue Land Cruisers valued at $270,000 each. This is part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to deliver on the things that matter, supporting community resilience and safety.

The addition of these vehicles to the NSW SES fleet across regional parts of the state will increase volunteers ability to access isolated communities and perform critical rescues during flooding. 

Built at Alexander Perrie & Co at Port Kembla in the Illawarra, the new 4WD flood rescue vehicles are designed with enhanced offroad capability, and have a custom-built body for flood rescue equipment, as well as integrated stowage for inflatable flood rescue rafts. These vehicles are now being delivered to SES units in Wyong, Kiama, Tamworth, Ballina, Yamba, Orange, Forbes and Sydney.

Further, the high clearance vehicles are designed to operate in extreme off-road conditions and through floodwaters up to 1.2 metres deep, enabling SES crews to deliver essential supplies, complete rescues, and support other emergency services in remote and hard-to-reach locations.

The delivery of the new vehicles comes as SES crews responded to more than 59,000 incidents in the past 12 months, an 24,500 increase from the previous 12-month period, in what has been the busiest year since 2022.

The NSW Government thanked communities for following emergency service advice to prepare, with the Bureau of Meteorology predicting wetter than average weather will continue until the end of the year.

September to April is typically the time when the frequency of storms, strong winds and heavy rain increases, but August has already been wet for much of the state.

High clearance vehicles will be delivered across the state, including to areas recently impacted by flooding, such as Murwillumbah, Coffs Harbour and Taree. Others will be operational throughout Ku-ring-gai, Broken Hill, Goulburn, Moruya, Forbes and Dubbo. 

The fleet rollout follows extensive consultation with SES volunteers, trainers, and manufacturers to ensure each vehicle meets the operational challenges of the State’s diverse landscapes.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said: 

“I would like to thank our hardworking SES volunteers who have been out in force this year and who are a reassuring sight for communities in times of need.” 

“These new vehicles ensure we are giving our frontline emergency services the equipment they need to respond faster, reach more people in isolated areas and carry out rescues in some of the most challenging conditions.”

“Our investment in these vehicles is about making sure the people who run towards danger to help others have the tools they need to do it safely.” 

“We know we can count on SES crews to help communities, and I would encourage anyone who wants to join to sign up.”

NSW SES Deputy Commissioner Damien Johnson said:  

“These vehicles represent a significant step forward in our flood and disaster response capability.”

“We’ve worked closely with our volunteers and technical experts to ensure these designs meet the realities of field operations — whether that’s wading through more than a metre of floodwater, navigating fire trails, or delivering supplies to communities cut off by floodwaters.”

“This investment brings our total number of high clearance vehicles to 20 and means our dedicated members will be able to work more safely and effectively when the next emergency comes.” 

The Minns Labor Labor Government’s $14.65 million Open Streets 2025-28 Program is helping support councils to temporarily create places for people to enjoy free community events with Canterbury-Bankstown Council staging the new Love Earlwood – Meet You at the Plateia Festival today in a rich display of culture, cuisine and music.

From 11am-4pm, a free festival will see Clarke Street and Earlwood Avenue in the town centre transformed into a vibrant celebration of all things Mediterranean.

At a time when cost of living pressures are being felt across the state, councils across NSW are being supported to hold more free community events, with help from the NSW Government’s Open Streets program.

Too often our main streets are something we drive through, rather than enjoy time with family and friends around.

However, activating streets is expensive. Under the previous government, councils and organisers could face costs of up to $122,000 to open a street for an event. That burden stopped communities from being able to use their streets and public spaces.

With the Open Streets program, the Minns Labor Government is fixing this. From Tweed Shire to Bega Valley Shire to out west in Broken Hill, 46 councils have secured funding under the NSW Government’s renewed initiative.

Following a competitive grants process, Canterbury Bankstown Council received $350,000 in funding to deliver the festival over three years.

More than 30 stallholders will take part, including those showcasing tasty dishes inspired by Greek, Italian, Turkish and Lebanese cuisines.

George Kapiniaris – the popular star of Acropolis Now and Housos – is set to keep crowds entertained in his role as festival MC, presiding over a main stage program that includes:

• Balkan Boogie and Dusha Balkana performers
• Pepa Molina’s Flamenco Ensemble “Las Flamenkas”
• An all-female Lebanese drumming group
• Latin American singer Lily Guerrero
• The Greek Orthodox Community of NSW dance group
• The George Nikolopoulos and friends band
• Earlwood Public School students dance ensemble
• All Saints Grammar students’ musical performance
• Sousaphonics brass band

The eclectic line-up comes in addition to a host of fun-filled activities for kids, including a FREE glamour day spa and rides. 

For more information about the Open Streets Program, visit: www.transport.nsw.gov.au/openstreets

For full festival details and performance times, visit: wih.city/LoveEarlwood

Minister for Transport, John Graham said:

“It is exciting to support Earlwood’s newest festival.  We’re thrilled to support Love Earlwood – Meet You at the Plateia Festival in Canterbury-Bankstown. 

“Too often our main streets are something we drive through, rather than drive to. Our main streets are a critical part of our social infrastructure, and this program demonstrates how we can use our streets to bring communities together and drive revenue for local businesses.

“The Open Streets program temporarily transforms our main streets into thriving, vibrant public event spaces. 

“The colour and diversity of these 240 events across NSW, celebrates the unique personality of each town or suburb. This is what our vibrancy agenda is all about, backing locals to create events and entertainment that works for their local community.”

Member for Canterbury Sophie Cotsis said:

“I’m absolutely thrilled that the NSW Government recognises the value of our local events, and that the Earlwood Festival is back where it belongs – at the heart of our community.

“This ongoing funding over the next three years will ensure the festival continues to grow as a much-loved annual event that brings people together and celebrates everything that makes Earlwood special.

“I’ve been campaigning for this for a long time, and it’s a real win for the whole community. I especially want to acknowledge the local residents and community advocates, including Councillor Clare Raffan who’ve worked tirelessly to help bring the festival back. I would also like to thank the President of the Earlwood Business Chamber George Massouridis. 

“We live in the best state in the world, and people deserve to enjoy their neighbourhoods in a cost-friendly, inclusive way whilst also supporting local jobs, boosting small businesses, and bringing our streets to life.

“I can’t wait to see Earlwood transformed into a vibrant, public space where the community can come together and celebrate.”

City of Canterbury Bankstown Mayor Bilal El-Hayek said:

“Whether you like to don your dancing shoes, sing along to great tunes or tempt your tastebuds with Mediterranean flavours, there will be something on offer for everyone at this festival.

“Come along, join in the fun and celebrate Earlwood with us.”