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Proposed changes to drinking water guidelines for PFAS not low enough: Greens

The NSW Government should be strongly advocating for Australia’s drinking water guidelines to reflect global best practice after draft new guidelines released today still have Australia lagging behind the US on acceptable levels for some ‘forever chemicals’ says Cate Faehrmann, Greens NSW MP and chair of the newly established Upper House Inquiry into PFAS.

“Why should Australians accept a new drinking water standard that has levels of one forever chemical, PFOA, at 50 times what the US is prepared to accept? PFOA has recently been declared carcinogenic by the World Health Organisation, so surely the only acceptable level is close, or at, zero,” Cate Faehrmann said.

“Australia is behind many other jurisdictions that have acted on the growing body of evidence about just how dangerous these chemicals are much sooner. It shouldn’t have taken a media investigation and negative headlines to get action here.

“Australia must now seize this opportunity and adopt the world’s best practice when it comes to identifying and removing PFAS from our water supplies. The NSW Government needs to be strongly advocating for this at the federal level.

“It makes no sense that new guidelines will set acceptable levels for some ‘forever chemicals’ higher than what the US allows. Why should we be prepared to accept higher levels of chemicals than people in the US?

“The public deserves to know on what evidence all decisions around supposedly safe levels are being made,” said Cate Faehrmann.

Universities need public funding and governance overhaul, not more job cuts

Senator Mehreen Faruqi, Deputy Greens Leader and spokesperson for Higher Education, has commented on the slashing of hundreds of jobs in the university sector with the latest announcement today by the University of Canberra, following recent job cut announcements at Macquarie University and the ANU.

Senator Faruqi: 

“There is something deeply wrong with universities if hundreds of jobs are being cut while VCs walk away with million-dollar plus pay packets.

“Rampant casualisation, wage theft and enormous workloads were already crushing staff, and now hundreds will be without a job. It should be VC salaries that should be cut, not staff jobs.

“For too long, the corporatisation of universities has continued unabated, with disastrous consequences for staff and students. Staff and students are not expendable cogs in the wheels of a corporate campus.

“Universities are in strife, and the Labor government is going to make it even worse with their international student caps. Instead, they should be providing a big boost of funding to universities and overhauling university governance to put staff and students back at the centre of decision making.”

Wholesale digital reform needed to tackle & tax big tech corporations

Big tech and social media corporations should pay their fair share back to the communities they profit from, including for public interest journalism, according to the Greens and a Parliamentary Select Committee Report into Social Media. 

The Greens are calling on the Government to stand up to tech giants like Meta and protect media diversity and public interest journalism in Australia via comprehensive regulatory reform. In additional comments the Greens are calling for an overhaul of ACMA powers, and the implementation of the News Media Assistance Program.

Senator Sarah Hanson-Young is Greens Spokesperson for Communications:

“A strong, diverse and trusted news media sector is essential for a strong and robust democracy. Australia needs to urgently address the lack of trust and sustainability of quality public interest journalism if we are to protect ourselves from the rampant disinformation and politics of division we are witnessing in the United States. 

“Independent public interest journalism is a public good, but more is needed than just short term funding and grant programs. 

“It’s clear that comprehensive digital and media reform is well overdue in Australia and we need stronger laws that deal with the toxic business model of these big tech corporations.

“It’s time for the Albanese Government to make these companies pay their fair share back to the communities they are profiting from, and too often, harming. We’ve seen this in countries like France and Canada and it should be part of the solution to fund the public interest journalism that’s been gutted by the tech giants.

“We also need greater transparency over how these companies use their algorithms and the data of everyday users.

“We need to fund quality, public interest journalism in Australia and ensure that a diversity of publishers, especially small, medium, regional and independent media are supported.

“ACMA’s powers are not fit for purpose in a digital age and comprehensive reform in this area is well overdue.

“A Commission of Inquiry into media regulation and diversity including the damaging impact the Murdoch media empire is having on our democracy is also warranted.

“While this is the first report of this inquiry, focused on the news media bargaining code and journalism support, the final report of the inquiry will deal with the harms of social media and the need for regulating the big tech giants. 

“Labor & the Liberals should back the Greens’ call for a ban on big tech corporations harvesting the data of young people and targeting them with advertising and dangerous algorithms. The business model of collecting, selling and exploiting young people’s data to make massive profits must stop.”

Media diversity in Australia is now second-worst in the world, with experts calling for a levy on tech firms.

Wheels in motion to improve active travel along Parkway Avenue

The community is invited to have their say on a proposal to upgrade Newcastle’s cycling and pedestrian network along the heritage listed Parkway Avenue in Hamilton South. 

The proposed improvements, between National Park Street and Smith Street intersections, includes both on-road cycle lanes, sections of off-road shared pathway, amendments to the roundabouts, as well as two combined pedestrian-cycling crossings across Parkway Avenue and the grassed median. 

Corner of National Park Street and Parkway Avenue, Hamilton SouthCorner of National Park Street and Parkway Avenue, Hamilton South

The project is being delivered by City of Newcastle, utilising $469,500 from the Australian Government Black Spot Program as administered by Transport for NSW. 

Executive Manager Transport and Regulation Ryan Tranter said the cycleway and shared pathways would foster a safer and more accessible thoroughfare for cyclists and pedestrians, whilst linking schools with parks and residential areas.  

“This project will provide safe, convenient connections between our shopping centres, favourite places to visit, and homes, inspiring people to walk and ride more often,” Mr Tranter said. 

“We want to hear feedback from residents, high school students, commuters, and anyone who has an interest in the proposed improvements to Parkway Avenue. 

“Feedback from the community is an important aspect of the process and I encourage everyone to have their say during the public exhibition period to help inform the detailed design.” 

The project aims to maintain the heritage and character of Parkway Avenue including its uniform streetscape and retaining the grand median with iconic Norfolk pine trees, whilst providing more space for pedestrians and cyclists.  

In alignment with City of Newcastle’s ‘On Our Bikes’ Cycling Plan, the project proposes designated cycle routes and slowing vehicles by adding speed cushions and realigning the kerb to narrow the lanes on approach of the two roundabouts. 

New priority crossing points will also improve safety for pedestrians travelling in the area.   

The new cycleway and shared path will complement City of Newcastle’s $2 million upgrade which is underway at Maud Street Waratah West, addressing safety and accessibility issues with a signalised crossing, improved alignment, kerb extension and shared paths.  

Community feedback on the proposed concept plans is open until 5pm, Monday 18 November 2024 and will be incorporated as part of the detailed design stage. 

To view the preliminary concept plans and complete the online survey visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au/yoursay. 

Securing a more vibrant future for Sydney’s Entertainment Quarter

The Minns Labor Government will hold an open tender process for the long-term lease at the Entertainment Quarter (EQ), Moore Park, with the aim to unlock the potential of the site through a world-class redevelopment.

Proposals are being sought that will deliver more visitors, more live performances, and more events at Entertainment Quarter, the former Sydney Showgrounds site.

The NSW Government is also seeking proposals that would deliver additional creative spaces such as a new indoor space that could host substantial audiences of up to 15,000 – 20,000 people, for live performances and public events.

The EQ is one of Sydney’s key entertainment and sports precincts, and a hub for creative industries, but it is currently underutilised considering its prime location between Centennial Park, the SCG and Allianz Stadium and its proximity to the CBD via light rail.

The NSW Government is determined to ensure EQ’s history as the venue for some of Sydney’s biggest events, including the start of World Series cricket and the old Royal Easter Show, is honoured in transformation to a world-class entertainment precinct that Sydney can be proud of.

The current lease over the site has a maximum lease term expiring in 2046 and while no decision has been made in relation to the existing lease, this open tender process will allow all parties to put forward proposals to redevelop the precinct.

The open tender process will commence in the near-term and will look beyond the next decade to a proposal that supports long-term investment, with the tender process to run through next year.

The tender process will seek bids that deliver on key precinct and infrastructure upgrades and support increased use of the precinct while supporting better integration with the broader sports and entertainment precinct and parklands while retaining the site as a public space.

Through a long-term lease we have an opportunity to secure the Entertainment Quarter’s future and deliver the revitalisation the site needs.

This builds on work already undertaken by the NSW Government with the announcement of Vibrancy Reforms set to be debated in Parliament this week, that are aimed tackling red tape that has destroyed nightlife and entertainment by bringing vibrancy back to New South Wales.

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

“The Entertainment Quarter is in one of Australia’s best entertainment precincts, however it is falling far short of meeting its full potential.

“We want to turn the EQ into a thriving world-class precinct, full of dining and entertainment options, complete with a brand new venue that can host between 15,000 – 20,000 for live music and public events.

“The new EQ entertainment precinct would provide another world-class venue for great home grown artists and international acts to perform at, like Cold Chisel and Dua Lipa who Sydney will be hosting over the next 6 months.

“From cutting through red tape that has decimated Sydney’s nightlife to getting visitors and entertainment back into the city with projects this like this, we’re focussed on turning Sydney into the best entertainment destination in the world.”

Minister for Music and the Night-Time Economy John Graham said:

“The Entertainment Quarter’s potential currently outweighs its offerings. In short, we want more entertainment in this precinct, more people visiting and much more activation of what has always been a special place in Sydney right back to the days of the Showgrounds and the heyday of the Hordern Pavilion.

“The creation of a live performance area that can host 15,000 – 20,000 people is central to this vision, particularly as the Minns Labor Government pursues its agenda to grow live music back from the brink.

“A revitalised Entertainment Quarter fits the objective of the Vibrancy Reforms we are enacting, the 24-Hour Economy Strategy and the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy Review. This place should be an experience that keeps visitors coming back again and again.

“I look forward to seeing the vision of the private sector to deliver on a much more ambitious use of this exciting site.”

Grants now available for councils to hire 1,300 additional apprentices and trainees

Councils across NSW can now apply for grants to employ hundreds more apprentices and trainees as part of the Minns Labor Government’s $252.2 million investment in securing the future of the local government workforce.

The Fresh Start for Local Government Apprentices, Trainees and Cadets Program which will fund the wages of 1,300 apprentices, trainees and cadets over the next six years, is the largest state government investment in the direct hire of new apprentices in recent memory.

The program aims to support a 15 per cent increase in the local government workforce through new apprentices and trainees, starting with 1,300 new roles across metropolitan, rural and regional NSW councils.

The program has been designed so councils can determine their own workforce priorities and the types of roles they hope to fill – whether that’s more plumbers, childcare workers and carpenters, or mechanics, landscapers and planners.

Applications will be assessed on merit with the funding to be administered by the Office of Local Government.

Following an assessment period grants will be allocated to councils and the first round of apprentices, trainees and cadets are expected to start work in early 2025.

Guidelines for the grants are now available and all 128 councils, county councils and joint organisations are eligible to apply for round one of the funding.

Applications can be made to the Apprentice and Trainee program through the Office of Local Government. Submissions close 8 November 2024.

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said:

“Apprenticeships provide opportunities for young people to learn a trade and work in a role where they can have a direct impact on their community.

“We need to create more of these opportunities across NSW to boost the capability of councils, reverse the trend of outsourcing and keep council jobs in councils where they belong.

“This significant investment by the Minns Labor Government will help ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital workforce which provides the services and builds the infrastructure we use every day.

“A stronger local government sector means stronger communities, so I encourage all councils to apply as soon as possible.” 

Ombudsman to provide advice and dispute resolution for community members hosting renewable energy

The Minns Labor Government is taking further measures to ensure community members and landowners hosting renewable energy infrastructure projects are actively supported, by expanding the functions of the Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW.

For the first time, the Ombudsman will provide impartial information and an external dispute resolution service to landholders and community members impacted by new major renewable energy transmission infrastructure and renewable energy infrastructure projects which will deliver more affordable and reliable power across NSW.

$1.3 million in grant funding from the NSW Government will improve efficiency, transparency and accountability in addressing complaints by individual community members or landowners hosting renewable energy generation and transmission projects.

The Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW will provide a ‘no wrong door’ referral service for residents, connecting them with the most appropriate channels to address their complaints where they fall outside the Ombudsman’s jurisdiction.

The service will also provide an investigation and resolution process for residents dissatisfied with how their complaints are handled by the relevant transmission and renewable energy entities.

The Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW will actively engage with residents to understand their concerns and identify any widespread issues requiring action.

The Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW was established in 1998 as the NSW Government-approved dispute resolution scheme for electricity and gas customers, and some water customers. The external dispute resolution scheme operates independent of Government and industry.

The new services will be rolled out by the NSW Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW from December.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe:

“We have listened to communities and understand that better engagement and support is needed for communities hosting renewable energy infrastructure.

“The investment in expanding this dedicated complaint handling function proves our commitment to a fair and transparent energy sector.

“Residents will no longer have to navigate a maze of agencies. The Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW will connect them with the right people to have concerns investigated and addressed.”

Energy and Water Ombudsman NSW, Janine Young:

“The Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW is the established, trusted and independent dispute resolution scheme for NSW energy and water customers. We resolved more than 28,000 energy and water complaints last year.

“This isn’t new territory for us. We already handle complaints about existing energy transmission and distribution infrastructure, so we’re well placed to expand into managing complaints and disputes regarding new network and renewable energy infrastructure projects.

“The renewable energy sector is developing rapidly, and customers need a free and impartial Ombudsman scheme to help them navigate the energy transition.”

$6 million for better Budgewoi transport network

The Minns Labor Government is pressing ahead with building a better Budgewoi transport network with a $6 million investment to improve Scenic Drive.

More than 16,000 motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and bus passengers who use the road daily will benefit from safety and access improvements to be delivered along the section of Scenic Drive between Wills Road and Ourringo Street.

Safety improvements at intersections along Scenic Drive will be a key focus of the upgrades which will help make it easier for people to access Halekulani Oval, the skate park and Budgewoi West Village.

Potential solutions include:

  • enhanced accessibility of bus stop facilities
  • additional pedestrian refuges along the corridor
  • upgrades to existing active transport infrastructure around Budgewoi Bridge
  • adjusting the Budgewoi West Village car park entry location at Noela Place intersection
  • traffic slowing measures at the Alawai Avenue intersection and
  • replacement of the existing pedestrian refuge adjacent Budgewoi West Village with a signalised pedestrian crossing.

To help Transport for NSW determine what improvements should be prioritised to best meet community needs, Budgewoi locals are being invited to share their improvement ideas by:

The feedback period ends on 13 November and Transport for NSW expects to share final improvement plans with the community in 2025.

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said:

“We want these changes to help create a vibrant centre for Budgewoi with a high-quality transport network, so we’ll be looking at design options that improve the amenity of the local street environment.

“Feedback from residents and other stakeholders is encouraged during this early stage of project development and it will help Transport for NSW get the final plans right so the whole community benefits.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“Thanks to strong advocacy from Yasmin Catley and David Harris, projects like the better Budgewoi transport network are being delivered by the Minns Labor Government.

“I encourage community members to share their ideas and help decide what the final set of upgrades look like for Budgewoi.”

Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley said:

“We’ve long advocated for changes to the Budgewoi transport network, and now the first steps are finally being taken to improve transport for people on the Central Coast.

“While it’s great to have community facilities, it’s crucial that they’re accessible to locals – a priority that has been overlooked in the past.

“Locals know their community best, so I encourage everyone to share their thoughts and have their say.”

Shadow cabinet brings Western Sydney’s voices to the forefront in Penrith

The NSW Opposition’s Shadow Cabinet will today meet with key stakeholders across Western Sydney, including small businesses, faith-based organisations, community leaders, and local government representatives in Penrith— the territory of champions – at its Shadow Community Cabinet event.
 
The Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said Western Sydney is the engine room of aspiration in New South Wales, and Penrith is at its heart.
 
“When Western Sydney thrives, the rest of the state benefits. We are here to ensure the Penrith area gets the support it deserves, so families, businesses and communities can succeed,” Mr Speakman said.
 
The former Coalition Government recognised the importance of quality healthcare in Western Sydney, including investing $1 billion in the Nepean Hospital redevelopment.
 
This vital investment delivered:
 

  • A new cancer clinic providing life-saving treatments.
  • Over 600 new parking spaces for easier access.
  • A 14-storey hospital tower expanding critical care services.
  • The Somerset Cottage Early Childhood Education and Care Centre.
  • A modern pathology laboratory for faster, more reliable diagnoses.
  • The Northern Road upgrade, a $4.1 billion joint project between the Federal and State Governments, has also laid the foundation for major growth ahead of the new Western Sydney Airport.

 
Shadow Minister for Western Sydney Robyn Preston said projects like these wouldn’t have happened under the Minns Labor Government, which is cutting health infrastructure spending by over a third by 2027-28.
 
“This government lacks the urgency to deliver for Western Sydney. That’s why the Shadow Cabinet is here—to make sure the voices of Western Sydney are heard and acted upon,” Ms Preston said.

Culture of misconduct in the NSW Police

The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) has recommended disciplinary action against three officers in their report following Operation Pamir finding that a vulnerable First Nations person had their rights violated in May 2020. Police officers forced the victim to participate in police interviews against the fundamental right to silence and put false information to that person during an interview.

This report follows the report on Operation Mantus last year, which found systemic failures to protect young people and their right to silence. The investigation and report occurred after Police prosecution of the person was halted in court due to the evidence given being inadmissible.

Greens MP and spokesperson for justice Sue Higginson said “This report has once again lifted the lid on a horrid and sordid culture within the NSW Police. Despite two separate Lawyers, including one Aboriginal Legal Service lawyer, advising police that the victim exercised their right to silence, the officers forced two separate interviews with the victim, therefore engaging in serious misconduct.”

“We can’t know how often this is happening, but the impunity shown in this case and by the fact that this was done in collusion between numerous officers would suggest that it is not uncommon,”

“We have seen endless accounts from people that have survived abuse by the police, including current and former police officers, as well as members of the community who are targeted and vilified based on racist policing practices. Everytime the LECC makes findings of wrongdoing and misconduct against the police, the Minister and the Premier try and excuse the issue by saying that the system is working, this is a political failure and it has to stop,”

“Arresting officers, custody managers and bail officers all have a significant responsibility for maintaining a person’s welfare and for protecting the legal rights of the community. The culture of cover up and abuse within the police system in NSW is putting people in danger and violating the community at every turn,”

“The right to silence is one of the most fundamental rights when it comes to freedom from oppressive state prosecution,”

“The Government should direct the Police to make compensation available to the victim of this police misconduct, and the LECC should be resourced according to the number of reports made to them from the community,”

“As long as the LECC does not have enough resources to properly police the police, there is no hope for a genuine clearing of the decks from the toxicity in the NSW Police that is causing harm and violating people’s rights,”

“The three officers should have their employment terminated immediately, to clear these bad apples from the barrel, and the systemic shift that is so badly needed should begin today,” Ms Higginson said.