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NSW sets target to boost billion-dollar screen and digital games industries, supporting thousands of jobs

Supporting Australian storytelling, developing the next generation of creative talent, and a plan to grow the digital games sector are the key priorities of the new three-year screen and digital games strategy.

The NSW screen industry added almost $1.1 billion to the state economy in 2021-22 and is currently home to 51% of Australia’s screen production, and 49% of post-production businesses. To ensure NSW remains the leading screen state, the NSW Screen and Digital Games Strategy will:

Invest in developing local talent and audiences, including:

  • $1 million pilot program to address skills shortages will be developed and rolled out with TAFE, AFTRS and NIDA to fast-track entry level and mid-career below the line practitioners in the below the line workforce.
  • $200,000 IP option fund to give producers the ability to purchase IP rights to turn home-grown novels, non-fiction work and podcasts into screen and gaming content, so we have more Australian stories on screen.
  • $200,000 Community Film Festival Opening Night Fund will support communities share the vibrancy of screen stories with audiences from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds, by bringing them together to enjoy screen community film festivals.

Role of Screen NSW

  • New film friendly legislation will be introducedto ensure a strengthened standard of working.
  • Address impacts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the sector: Screen NSW will convene an industry working group to help develop an Australian industry response to AI, and review funding guidelines.
  • Priority hotline: The Head of Screen NSW will be given the authority to escalate critically urgent production issues for an urgent government response.

Supporting infrastructure

  • Addressing the critical shortage of filming infrastructure in NSW, the NSW Government will develop new partnerships with the private sector to explore alternate options for studio space, including a second studio and Callan Park.
  • Centre for Screen culture and digital innovation. Working with local government and industry partners, the NSW Government will support plans to establish a hub for creative workers across the industry.

Focus on developing digital games industry

The $466 billion global digital gaming industry is highlighted as an enormous opportunity. New incentives to support games production and increase NSW revenue for digital games to $406.39 million in 2027-28 include:

  • Reducing Digital Games Rebate NSW expenditure minimum from $500,000 down to $350,000. The Rebate is designed to nurture homegrown developers, attract and retain work and talent to the state, and accelerate growth in the NSW digital games sector. While many larger, established studios currently access the Rebate, the lowered threshold mean it will now be more accessible to a broader range of digital games companies in NSW, including many independent studios that currently operate in the state. 
  • Increased investment in the Digital Games Seed Development Program and Market Travel Programs. A flourishing games industry is one that includes large and small developers, an investment of$1.5 million over three years will support digital games producers to essential skills and build their industry networks and knowledge.

Minister for the Arts John Graham said:

“Our people, our stories, and our skills – these are the reasons why more than half of Australian screen production happens here in NSW. This strategy sets out how the government and the industry could work together to build on that.

“While there has been a recent slowdown in global screen production, the Federal Government’s increased location offset will see Australia gain a greater share of that market. This strategy recognises the opportunities that brings, as well as the pressure that puts on NSW production facilities.

“We have identified ways of cutting the red tape that has made NSW a ‘No’ state when it comes to attracting productions. Backed by the introduction of a NSW Screen and Digital Games Act, we aim to make NSW a ‘Yes’ state.

“For the first time in NSW, we are putting digital gaming front and centre. This strategy sets out a ‘hothouse’ approach that backs existing high performing producers to support the ambitious target of 20% compound annual growth in the sector.”

Head of Screen NSW Kyas Hepworth said:

“I am thrilled to be able to drive this strategy and provide a path forward for our sector, working towards a vibrant and sustainable future for all screen practitioners and game makers in NSW.

“Storytelling has the power to unite and inspire, and as a state with such a rich depth of talent, we strive to be known as the place to create compelling stories. This is an exciting time for our sector as, while developing this strategy, we have taken stock of where the industry is at and looked forward to where we want to be in the next three years. This has informed our strategy and with this vital support we want to move forward with the industry and take it to new heights.

“I am confident this strategy will provide assurance that Screen NSW are committed to supporting NSW stories and storytellers.”

Background

The strategy outlines four strategic priority focuses to support and sustainably grow the screen and digital games sector. These include:

  • Creating stories: We lead the way in making enriching, high calibre stories and cultural content for local and global audiences.
  • Building sustainable growth: Our businesses are globally recognised, connected and competitive. High quality, accessible spaces help them grow and create jobs that are future proofed and sustainable.
  • Improving capacity and capability: We set best practice standards to ensure workers have career pathways, are respected, safe, appropriately remunerated and supported in their career ambitions.
  • Developing audiences to increase demand: Local content finds and delights diverse audiences locally and around the world.

New legislation: The strategy includes proposed new legislation to ensure screen friendly approaches across local councils and state government agencies.

In 2025, the NSW Government will introduce the NSW Screen and Digital Games Act to strengthen NSW as a film-friendly jurisdiction, reduce red-tape and provide the highest level of cooperation across government with filmmakers to maximise opportunities for the sector. This will strengthen elements of the Making NSW Film Friendly Premier’s Memorandum and incorporate an updated Local Government Filming Protocol.

Renewed Screen NSW agency: The strategy will provide Screen NSW with greater independence and will build its capacity to continue to strengthen and grow the industry. This will mean:

  • Shortening investment approval timeframes, contracting and payment terms.
  • Legislation will be introduced for the Film and Television Industry Advisory Committee to include digital games representation and renaming the board to reflect this update.
  • The Head of Screen NSW will be given the authority to escalate critically urgent production issues for an urgent government response.

The full strategy available is here: Screen NSW – NSW Screen and Digital Games Strategy

Albanese Government to stop the rip offs from unfair trading practices

The Albanese Government is taking action to stop businesses ripping off Australians by banning unfair trading practices under the Australian Consumer Law.

This is about easing the cost of living and getting a fair go for consumers and suppliers.

From concert tickets to hotel rooms and gym memberships, Australians are fed up with businesses using tricky tactics that make it difficult to end subscriptions or add hidden fees to purchases.

These practices can distort purchasing decisions, or result in additional costs, putting more pressure on the cost of living.

The Government’s actions will address a wide range of practices, including:

  • ‘Subscription traps’ that use arduous and confusing steps to make cancelling a subscription difficult.
  • ‘Drip pricing’ practices where fees are hidden or added throughout the stages of a purchase.
  • Deceptive and manipulative online practices that aim to confuse or overwhelm consumers, omit or hide material information, or create a false sense of urgency or scarcity – this can include warnings that a customer only has limited time to purchase a product.
  • Dynamic pricing where a product’s price changes during the transaction process.
  • Requiring consumers to set up an account and provide unnecessary information to make an online purchase.
  • Where a business makes it difficult for a consumer to contact them when they have a problem with their product or service.

Treasury will consult on the design before the Government legislates a general prohibition on unfair trading practices. This will include specific prohibitions of a range of dodgy practices.

Today the Albanese Government has also released a consultation paper on reforms to strengthen protections for consumers and small businesses under the Consumer Guarantees and Supplier Indemnification provisions of the Australian Consumer Law.

The Government welcomes stakeholder feedback on the proposed reforms, which include introducing penalties for suppliers that refuse to provide consumers with a remedy such as a repair, replacement or refund when required under law.

Currently, it can be difficult for consumers to obtain a remedy, especially when engaging in the digital economy.

These reforms will empower the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and state and territory consumer protection agencies to issue infringement notices or pursue penalties for breaches of the Consumer Guarantee and Supplier Indemnification provisions of the Australian Consumer Law.

Following consultation, the Government will work with states and territories to settle a final reform proposal in the first half of 2025.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“We’re taking strong action to stop businesses from engaging in dodgy practices that rip consumers off.

“Today’s announcement puts businesses engaging in unfair trading practices on notice.

“Hidden fees and traps are putting even more pressure on the cost of living and it needs to stop.”

Treasurer Jim Chalmers:

“We’re taking important steps to ban unfair trading practices and ease the cost of living for Australians.

“Whether it’s traps that make it difficult or confusing to cancel a subscription, hidden fees and charges at different stages of a purchase, deceptive or manipulative practices online or making it difficult for people to report problems with their products or services, we’re going to change the rules.

“Most businesses do the right thing by Australians and they’ve got nothing to worry about.

“This is all about cracking down on dodgy deals to save Australians money if we can, and where we can.”

Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services Stephen Jones:

“Consumer protections shouldn’t stop at the internet. Whether you are shopping online or at a brick and mortar store, the Albanese Government is protecting Australian consumers.

“This is all about ending the rip offs so people don’t fall into subscription traps or added fees when they purchase things like airline or concert tickets.”

New Defence Precinct at Henderson to deliver continuous naval shipbuilding and nuclear-powered submarine maintenance

The Albanese Government will establish a consolidated Commonwealth-owned Defence Precinct at Western Australia’s Henderson shipyard to underpin tens of billions of dollars of investment in defence capabilities in the West over the next two decades and support in the order of 10,000 well-paid, high-skilled local jobs.

The establishment of a consolidated Defence Precinct at Henderson is the critical next step in delivering continuous naval shipbuilding in Western Australia.

This builds on the Albanese Government’s announcement last year of a strategic partnership between Defence and Austal Limited at Henderson.

It also represents a major milestone on the AUKUS pathway as Australia develops the capability to safely and securely own, operate and sustain conventionally‑armed, nuclear‑powered submarines.

The Defence Precinct will support the build of new landing craft for the Australian Army and new general purpose frigates for the Navy announced by the Albanese Government, with requisite large vessel infrastructure to form part of the Precinct.

These capabilities are vital to transforming our Defence Force’s ability to meet Australia’s complex strategic circumstances.

The Albanese Government has also determined that the Defence Precinct at Henderson will be the home of depot-level maintenance and contingency docking for Australia’s future conventionally‑armed, nuclear-powered submarines.

These vital maintenance capabilities will be established at Henderson in accordance with domestic processes and regulatory requirements, and consistent with Australia’s international obligations to maintaining the highest standards for nuclear safety, security and safeguards.

Contingency and depot-level maintenance alone will create around 3,000 jobs in Western Australia.

This is in addition to the thousands of jobs that will be supported through construction of the Defence Precinct, delivery of continuous naval shipbuilding in the West, and the establishment and operation of Submarine Rotational Force-West at HMAS Stirling.

Coupled with the $8 billion the Albanese Government has already committed to expand HMAS Stirling, these investments and capability programs in Western Australia will be worth tens of billions of dollars over the next two decades.

Cooperation Agreement

To deliver this ambitious long-term program, the Albanese and Cook Governments have today signed a Cooperation Agreement, which provides a foundation for collaboration to deliver the Defence Precinct and related activities. This will include:

  • Developing a dedicated joint forum to deliver the skilled workforce required to deliver and sustain critical Defence capabilities.
  • Establishing the necessary infrastructure, including common user facilities, to support industry across the Defence Precinct at Henderson.
  • Ensuring effective engagement across Federal, State and Local governments and communities.

The Albanese Government will make an initial investment of $127 million over three years to progress planning, consultations, preliminary design and feasibility studies as well as enabling works for the Defence Precinct at Henderson.

This work will inform future decisions on delivery options and models for the Defence Precinct at Henderson.

The Albanese Government is committed to working with the Cook Government to deliver the infrastructure, industry, workforce and training for a defence future made in Western Australia.

A copy of the agreement will be available here: Cooperation agreement between the Commonwealth of Australia and the State of Western Australia to deliver and sustain Australia’s future Defence capabilities | Defence Ministers

Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese:

“The Albanese Government’s commitment to the Defence Precinct at Henderson is a game changer for WA industry – it will create thousands of jobs for West Australians and underpin billions of dollars of investment in defence capability in the West.

“Henderson already plays a critical role in the delivery and sustainment of Australian Defence Force capabilities and this will see the important role of WA industry grow further.”

Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles:

“The Albanese Government’s commitments represent the most consequential defence investment in Western Australia in nearly four decades, since the commissioning of HMAS Stirling in 1978 and its expanded role as Australia’s Indian Ocean fleet base under the 1987 two-oceans navy policy.

“The Defence Precinct at Henderson will optimise Australia’s shipbuilding and sustainment industry while supporting continuous naval shipbuilding in Western Australia and Australia’s nuclear-powered submarine pathway.

“The Albanese Government is committed to investing in the growth of a productive and resilient defence industry and workforce to keep our nation safe and deliver a future made in Australia – which is exactly what the Defence Precinct will deliver.”

Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Pat Conroy:

“Successful consolidation of the Henderson precinct will secure decades of continuous shipbuilding in Western Australia, providing generational benefits for locals who play a vital role in keeping Australia safe.

“This investment by the Albanese Government will not only create thousands of high-skilled and well paid jobs in Western Australia but also ensures a future made in Australia.”

the Premier of Western Australia, Roger Cook:

“This is a momentous announcement for Western Australia – one that will set up our State for an exciting future and puts us at the centre of the nation’s defence capability.

“The new Defence Precinct at Henderson will deliver tens of billions of dollars in investment and thousands of local jobs.

“This massive investment delivers on my Government’s mission to develop and diversify our State’s economy by providing another economic pathway for our State for decades to follow.

“It is a win-win for Western Australia and the nation.”

Western Australian Minister for Defence Industry, Paul Papalia: 

“The investment of tens of billions of dollars will turn Western Australia into a defence powerhouse.”

“The Defence Precinct at Henderson will be the home of depot-level maintenance for nuclear-powered submarines as part of AUKUS. It will also be the maintenance hub for Australia’s nuclear submarines.”

“This historic agreement will result in generations of jobs and diversify the economy like never before.”

Future of Australian Antarctic Program in Tasmania secured

The Albanese Government has secured Hobart’s future as the home port of Australia’s icebreaker, RSV Nuyina, and the long-term future of the Australian Antarctic Program in Tasmania.

An agreement between the Federal and Tasmanian Government for a new, fit-for-purpose Macquarie Wharf 6 has been reached, locking in Tasmania as Australia’s Antarctic and Southern Ocean Gateway.

The Albanese Government will contribute $188 million over four years to construct a new Macquarie Wharf 6 in the Port of Hobart.

The Tasmanian Government will provide priority access to Macquarie Wharf 6 as the home port for RSV Nuyina for the next 30 years, continued access to existing portside facilities during the construction period, access to shoreside power, and a refuelling solution for RSV Nuyina in the Port of Hobart.

RSV Nuyina is the main lifeline to Australia’s Antarctic and sub-Antarctic research stations and the central platform of Australia’s Antarctic and Southern Ocean scientific research. It’s essential that it’s able to dock in Hobart.

Wharf construction will be managed by the Tasmanian Government and will begin next year.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“What this means is Tasmania will remain Australia’s gateway to Antarctica, as it should be. 

“This is an investment in Hobart, an investment in Tasmania and an investment in the future of Australian science.”

Premier Jeremy Rockliff:

“This agreement secures a fit-for-purpose home port for the Nuyina and locks in Tasmania’s future as the home of the Australian Antarctic Program.

“As part of the agreement we will also deliver appropriate refuelling infrastructure for the Nuyina and other vessels coming into Hobart.

“Tasmania has a proud heritage of supporting Antarctic and Southern Ocean endeavours with explorers and scientists using the port of Hobart as a base for expeditions since the 19th century.

“As part of our Government’s 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we will continue to promote and develop our world-leading Antarctic Gateway to grow jobs, maritime services, trade and investment, education, science and research, and visitor opportunities.”

Minister for the Environment and Water Tanya Plibersek:

“It’s absolutely fantastic that we’ve reached an agreement so the Australian Antarctic Program will have fit-for-purpose wharf infrastructure so they can continue world-leading Antarctic science based out of Hobart.

“I know how important being Australia’s gateway to Antarctica is to Tasmania. The Antarctic and Southern Ocean sector employs nearly 1,000 people in Tasmania and contributes more than $183 million each year to the Tasmanian economy.

“That’s why we’ve contributed $188 million towards a new home for the Nuyina and it’s why we have increased funding for the Australian Antarctic Division by more than half a billion since coming to government.”

SUPPORTING CLEAN ENERGY IN THE HUNTER

The Port of Newcastle and broader Hunter region are on track to become hydrogen-ready and contribute to Australia’s transformation to net zero.

Supported by $100 million funding from the Albanese Government, the Port of Newcastle’s Clean Energy Precinct has reached a major milestone signing agreements for key design work and environmental impact studies.

The precinct will renew a disused 220-hectare industrial site to facilitate clean energy production, storage, transmission, domestic distribution and international export.

The Government is supporting these latest studies along with the procurement and delivery of enabling works for the precinct. The project is being delivered in partnership with the NSW Government through a Federation Funding Agreement Schedule.

The Port of Newcastle plays an important economic role as a major deep-water global gateway.

The commencement of Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) studies follow previous work by the Port of Newcastle including public and industry engagement and feasibility studies. Formal community consultation and further industry engagement will now be undertaken by the Port.

Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“This Clean Energy Precinct demonstrates how legacy infrastructure can be repurposed towards making Australia a renewable energy superpower.

“Through our investment, we are supporting Australia’s transition to net zero while creating jobs and economic opportunities in the Hunter region.

“The project will help position Australia as a global leader in technologies and products that reduce carbon emissions including hydrogen and green ammonia.”

Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen:

“The Hunter has been industrial and economic powerhouse for decades, making the Port of Newcastle an ideal location for a clean energy precinct that can support decarbonisation of heavy industry and connect Australia’s renewable resources to the world.

“The Albanese Labor Government is supporting industrial regions like the Hunter to take advantage of the economic and job opportunities that come with more affordable and reliable renewable energy.”

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon:

“The Clean Energy Precinct is a major economic boost for our region.”

“Newcastle and the Hunter have powered Australia for Generations. This project makes sure we will continue to do so for generations to come as we lead the transition to Net Zero.”

“Establishing the Port as a hydrogen exporter will ensure good local jobs are protected and created into the future.”

NSW Minster for the Hunter Yasmin Catley:

“The Hunter has powered our state for decades and we’re ensuring it continues to do so for many years to come.

“Our energy market is transforming and we’re playing a central role; this project will support almost 6,000 local jobs and add billions to the regional economy.

“Today’s announcement will help ensure a bright future for the Hunter.”

NSW Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp:

“I’ve been working closely with the Port of Newcastle over the last ten years to support them in their diversification away from coal.

“With Newcastle’s existing infrastructure and skilled workforce, there is no better place in NSW for this precinct.”

Port of Newcastle CEO, Craig Carmody:

“The Port of Newcastle Clean Energy Precinct is expected to support around 5,800 jobs throughout construction and provide new business growth and expanded career pathways for the region, adding an estimated $4.2 billion to the Hunter regional economy.

“The FEED and EIS studies will cover electrical infrastructure, water services, general infrastructure, storage, berth infrastructure and pipelines to berth. The studies will be completed by successful tenderers Lumea (electrical), coNEXA (water) and GHD (general infrastructure, storage, berth and pipelines), informing future site enablement, site layout and land platform design, which will be used to prepare concept planning approvals.

“Pending planning and legislative requirements and timeframes, our production partners, KEPCO, are expected to begin construction of facilities in 2027, with the precinct to be operational from 2030.”

For more information, visit www.portofnewcastle.com.au/landside/major-projects/clean-energy-precinct.

PEP-11 APPLICATIONS SHOULD BE REFUSED

Sharon Claydon, Federal Member for Newcastle, has today welcomed the news that the Minister for Industry and Science, the Hon. Ed Husic MP, has carefully considered all material submitted by Asset Energy Pty Ltd and formed a preliminary view that the PEP-11 applications should be refused.

“The Minister’s preliminary view that PEP-11 should be refused is great news for Newcastle”

“The Newcastle community’s message has been loud, clear and consistent – PEP-11 is not welcome. NOT in Sydney, NOT on the Central Coast, and certainly NOT in Newcastle.”

“This is an important step in making sure that we put an end to PEP-11 once and for all.”

“I thank the Newcastle community – this couldn’t have happened without your steadfast advocacy!”

Appeal to locate man missing from Medowie

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man missing from the state’s north.

Johdyn Richards, aged 26, was last seen on Barringum Close, Medowie, on Wednesday 25 September 2024.

When he could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Tuggerah Lakes Police District were notified on Monday (7 October 2024) and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Police and family hold concerns for his welfare.

Johdyn is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 167cm tall, with a large build, and brown hair.

He was last seen wearing an orange jacket, and brown tracksuit pants.

He is known to frequent the suburbs around Charleville in Queensland and Wodonga in Victoria.

Anyone with information into his whereabouts is urged to contact Tuggerah Lakes Police District or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Humanitarian assistance to Myanmar

Australia will provide $9 million to Myanmar through the Australian Humanitarian Partnership to support communities and conflict-affected populations. 

Australia remains deeply concerned by the worsening political, security and humanitarian situation in Myanmar, which has serious implications for regional peace and security. 

This brings Australia’s total humanitarian commitment to the crises in Myanmar and Bangladesh since 2017 to $880 million. 

Over 3.4 million people are internally displaced within Myanmar, and 18.6 million people need humanitarian assistance. Our assistance will support community organisations and target vulnerable people and communities that need it most.  

Australia does not provide any direct funding to the military regime and takes proactive steps to ensure our assistance does not legitimise the military regime in Myanmar. 

In addition to today’s announcement, Australia welcomes the release of $17.8 million (US$12 million) to respond to the crisis in Myanmar from the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). Australia is a longstanding donor to the CERF, contributing $11 million each year. 

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong: 

“Australia is deeply concerned by the conflict in Myanmar.  

“The people of Myanmar continue to demonstrate great resolve in the face of unspeakable violence and human rights abuses, and Australia remains resolute in our support for them. 

“Australia reiterates our call for the regime to cease violence against civilians, release those unjustly detained, allow access for aid and return Myanmar to the path of inclusive democracy.” 

Minister for International Development and The Pacific, the Hon Pat Conroy MP: 

“Australia’s support will help the most vulnerable in Myanmar including women, children and persons with disabilities access lifesaving humanitarian assistance.” 

Hunter aircraft maintenance engineering jobs program kicks off

Careers in defence aviation will be on show in the Hunter this week with Government and industry partners coming together to give school leavers, and job ready young adults a look into the rewarding career path of an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer.

Thanks to the Minns Labor Government’s Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Attraction Program, Hunter students and adults alike are getting a taste of what it takes to work in the aircraft and defence industries.

The first-of-its-kind program will be held over five days at TAFE’s Aviation Delivery Hub at the Tighes Hill campus from Monday, 14 October.

Participants will also get an exclusive tour of the BAE Systems site at Williamtown to get a behind-the-scenes look at the responsibilities and rewards of working at one of the Hunter’s most versatile defence and security companies.

This program aims to encouragemore peopleto enrol in a Certificate II in Aeroskills to help them become workforce-ready, as well as open doors to rewarding jobs within the region’s thriving defence industry.

The NSW Government has worked with TAFE NSW and major stakeholders to design this placed-based program to help nurture local talent and support a sustainable future workforce for the defence industry in the Hunter and Nowra regions.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development is collaborating with TAFE NSW, HunterNet Career Connections and Pennant Training to deliver the Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Attraction Program in the Hunter.

The initiative is supported by a $70,000 investment from the NSW Government as part of its Targeted Workforce Development Scheme.

The program is being delivered in partnership with the Department of Education’s Skills & Workforce Programs.

Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“This is an exciting program where students can combine an interest in the modern aircraft industry with the reward of working within a critical sector in the heart of the Hunter.

“The NSW Government is dedicated to helping the Defence industry strengthen and future-proof its workforce by investing in first-of-its kind programs like this that show students and job seekers some of the rewarding employment possibilities available in this exhilarating and rewarding field.

“It is vital that we continue to invest in skills and employment opportunities for the future, and I am proud that the NSW Government’s Targeted Workforce Development Scheme is encouraging people to think big.”

Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley said:

“This program is the first-of-its-kind in the Hunter and will give our smart young students a unique look at an incredibly rewarding career.

“We’re working with local TAFE to ensure our kids can develop the skills required for good jobs and a prosperous future.

“The Hunter has a rich, unparalleled industrial history and the Labor Government is focused on ensuring our region continues to thrive.”

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said:

“The Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Attraction Program provides a unique opportunity for students, school leavers and adults to develop some great new skills while exploring an enriching career opportunity.

“For a long time, there has been a growing need for more Aircraft Maintenance Engineers, and I am pleased that this program is giving students the chance to learn all about it from some of the best.”

BAE Systems spokesperson said:

“A career in aviation isn’t just about flying an aircraft, it’s about working as a team to make that aircraft fly, and it’s about keeping everyone safe so they can perform their mission.

“If you’re an aircraft enthusiast or you just have an interest in all things mechanical, like checking engines and making repairs, this could be a really rewarding career path.

“We are excited to have the chance to show Hunter students and other interested Hunter residents what we do and some of the possibilities that are available right on their doorstep.”

Building the future – first of 100 public preschools open in South West Sydney

The first of 100 public preschools to be built by the Minns Labor Government has opened today, as work continues to ensure every child in New South Wales has the best possible start to their education.

Attached to Gulyangarri Public School in Liverpool, the new public preschool will welcome up to 80 preschoolers each week, providing expanded access to quality, free, early education in South West Sydney.

Importantly, this preschool is co-located with the primary school, easing students transition into kindergarten and full-time schooling, while easing pick up and drop off for parents with older students at the same school. 

This is part of the Minns Labor Government’s historic $769 million investment to deliver 100 new public preschools by 2027, doubling the existing number of public preschools across the state. Once complete more than 9,000 families and children will benefit from access to fee-free, high quality early education in their local community.

Tenders to build 85 of these public preschools are being released by the end of the year, with the first tranche of tenders out to market, including for preschools in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven regions.

The NSW Government’s work towards delivering universal preschool across the state is in sharp contrast to the former Government, who over twelve years failed to build a single public preschool. 

Research shows that children who participate in a quality preschool education program for at least five days a fortnight in the year before school are more likely to arrive at school equipped with the social, cognitive and emotional skills they need for learning.

With the first preschool now open to students, the Minns Labor Government is on track to deliver its commitment of 100 public preschools in full by 2027.

Children can enrol in public preschools if they turn 4 on or before 31 July in the year before starting school.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said: 

“This was one of the largest, and most important commitments we made prior to the election, and it’s fantastic to reach this milestone.

“We know that early childhood education has lifelong benefits for our states young people and is key to getting parents back into the workforce.

“As a government there is no better investment than young people and their education.

“No matter where you decide to raise your family in New South Wales, you should have access to quality, fee-free early education for your children – and that’s exactly what we’re working to deliver.

“One down, 99 to go!”

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

“It is wonderful to open the first of our Government’s 100 new public preschools and see Liverpool’s youngest learners begin their educational journey here at the new Gulyangarri Public Preschool. 

“This is the first step in a major expansion in access to preschool for families across NSW. The Minns Labor Government is investing in our future by giving many more children access to quality preschool before they start school.

“We made this historic commitment to deliver the biggest expansion in public preschools in NSW’s history because we strongly believe all children should have access to high-quality early education, no matter their postcode.”

Member for Liverpool Charishma Kaliyanda said:

“Access to a free, public preschool is a gamechanger for so many families in Liverpool and beyond, and I am delighted that Liverpool will be the first of many communities to access this fantastic initiative.

“We know how important early childhood education is in improving opportunities for children and families for years to come.

“The cost of early childcare has previously limited access for many parents. This affordable option, co-located with local public schools, is a lifeline for those families to get their children into a quality preschool.”

Gulyangarri Public School principal Ian Tapuska said: 

“The new public preschool will help form strong connections between children, families and school staff, foster a sense of belonging, and help teachers understand and meet the individual needs of children when they start school.

“The preschoolers will become part of our public education family, and we look forward to supporting a positive transition to school for our youngest learners.”