Category: NSW News

NSW Small Business Month will wrap up today with more than 500 events held in November to support and celebrate small businesses across the State.
 
In all, 274 official collaboration partners have taken part in hosting events and 137 grants made to assist event organisers.
 
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Small Business and Fair Trading Victor Dominello said today’s schedule of more than 40 events will conclude the month-long festival.
 
“NSW Small Business Month has shown the strength of community support for the 800,000 small businesses across the state and the optimism and resilience of business owners and operators, especially over the last two years with drought, fires and floods,” Mr Dominello said.
 
“They have brought to life the theme of this Small Business Month, ‘Connect for Success’, with their energy, enthusiasm, expertise and sense of community.”
 
NSW Small Business Commissioner Chris Lamont said many events provided small businesses with opportunities to network and share information with other small businesses.
 
“Running your own small business can be isolating, yet they employ almost half of the workforce and represent 98 per cent of all business in NSW,” Mr Lamont said. 
 
“Small Business Month connects small business owners and operators with others like them so they can share their challenges and successes.”
 
Mr Dominello said the NSW Government thanked all businesses and organisations, large and small, for their participation in Small Business Month and their continued support of small businesses in NSW.
 
“We look forward to an even bigger event in 2023 which will again celebrate the achievements of our small businesses and assist them in their growth and development.”
 
For more information, visit smallbusinessmonth.nsw.gov.au

The NSW Government has granted 40 community led projects that raise awareness about domestic violence a share of $80,000 as part of its ongoing commitment to addressing the issue.
 
Minister for Women’s Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Sexual Violence Natalie Ward said the provision of the grants coincided with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based violence campaign.
 
“This is all about empowering people to join the call to end violence against women and children, and I’m so impressed by the people driving that work in communities around New South Wales,” Mrs Ward said.
 
“From workshops on the state’s new consent laws, to a forum on the support services available to victims, these locally led initiatives have immeasurable impact.
 
“The NSW Government remains committed to funding important programs that protect the vulnerable and put an end to gender based violence.”
 
The types of projects funded under the grants program include promotional activities and events relating to the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based violence campaign (25 November to 10 December), Human Rights Day (10 December) and International Women’s Day (8 March).
 
Other funded projects include educational and awareness raising resources, events, social media campaigns, arts and theatre projects, community forums and fair days, education workshops, printed signage, booklets, flyers and posters.

Truck drivers will now face tougher penalties for entering Sydney tunnels in an overheight truck, to minimise disruptions to our busy road network and keep commuters moving.
 
There have been 40 overheight trucks detected in the Sydney Harbour Tunnel alone in 2022, almost double the number in 2021.
 
Minister for Metropolitan Roads Natalie Ward said the NSW Government was increasing the penalties following a recent spike in the number of incidents of overheight trucks wreaking havoc on our roads.
 
“The vast majority of truck drivers do the right thing, but for those who refuse to obey multiple warning signs and drive overheight vehicles into our tunnels, this should serve as a strong message that this has to stop,” Mrs Ward said.
 
“On multiple occasions in the last two weeks, hardworking commuters have been left inconvenienced and frustrated, particularly those using the Sydney Harbour Tunnel, and I won’t allow that to continue.
 
“The fine for overheight trucks will now increase from $3740 to $5,500, which is the maximum penalty that can be applied for a road rule offence.
 
“We are also doubling the suspension period for a driver licence to up to six months and increasing the demerit points from six to 12.
 
“Our Government is committed to keeping Sydneysiders moving and ensuring they spend less time in traffic and more time with family and friends, and doing the things they love.”
 
Minister for Regional Roads and Transport Sam Farraway said truck drivers had an obligation to check their vehicles and their loads.
 
“The many truck drivers who obey the rules rely on our roads to put food on the table, which is why we need to do everything we can to protect their livelihoods,” Mr Farraway said. 
 
“I would encourage all drivers to plan their trips to ensure they don’t break the rules and to pay attention to the signage which gives them ample warning.”
 
“We will work with industry to ensure the rules are clear and drivers are educated about their responsibilities.”

Community sporting clubs and organisations can now apply for life-saving defibrillators as part of the NSW Government’s Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program.
 
Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said the NSW Government has committed $2 million over four years to the program, ensuring more sporting clubs and councils are equipped to respond to life-threating emergencies.
 
“Whether you’re at your local sailing club or playing footy with your mates, when someone has a cardiac arrest, time is crucial – they can happen to anyone, anytime, or anywhere so it’s vital that a defibrillator is readily accessible,” Mr Henskens said.
 
“Through this funding, the NSW Liberals and National Government is ensuring our sport clubs and venues are safe environments for everyone, both on and off the field.”
 
Since 2017, more than 2,000 devices have been installed at sports facilities across the State.
 
Co-deputy Director of the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute Professor Jamie Vandenberg said people who play sport may think they are healthy but sudden cardiac arrest does not discriminate.
 
“Sudden cardiac arrest is a devastating disease which takes the lives of nine out of ten people who suffer an arrest outside of hospital. It’s vital we install as many life-saving defibrillators as possible across NSW and beyond and that people know how to use them,” Professor Vandenberg said.
 
“I encourage sporting clubs to apply for these generous grants that will help prevent the trauma, and the heartache, that cardiac arrest causes families.”
 
The Local Sports Defibrillator Program is available to sport and recreation clubs, associations and organisations as well as councils and service clubs. Up to $3,000 is available per device with organisations able to apply for up to three devices.
 
Applications are open and close Friday 10 February 2023. For more information, visit www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants/local-sport-defibrillator-grant-program.

Netball NSW is excited to announce the athletes that have been selected in the 17U & 19U teams which will represent the State at the 2023 National Netball Championships in Darwin in April.  

First contested in 1985, the annual tournament provides emerging talent from across the country the opportunity to represent their respective State or Territory and compete for national honours.

The Nationals are an important step in Netball Australia’s pathway, with many Australian Diamonds having previously represented their State or Territory in the event.

Mardi Aplin – General Manager of Performance & Pathways at Netball NSW – said this is an exciting and talented group of athletes

“Congratulations to all selected athletes, we know you will represent NSW with Waratah pride,” she said. 

“Head Coach of the 17U side, Amber Cross, and the 19U team coach, Jen Wright, cannot wait to start the campaign this weekend when all players and staff will come together for the first State Team Camp.

“Because of so much talent trialling, the selection process was very hard but that is a great problem to have because it highlights the competition for places. 

“We wish everyone selected the best as they start preparation for the National Netball Championships and Go NSW!”

In 2023 NSW will be looking to go back-to-back having claimed the Gold Medal in both the 17U and 19U Nationals in Tasmania this year. 

2023 NSW 19U Team

• Aimee Landrigan (Camden & District)
• Amelia Kirgan (Bankstown City)
• Ana Kailahi (Blacktown City) 
• Bella Lieberman (Manly Warringah)
• Eloise Egan (Manly Warringah)
• Eugenie Little (Manly Warringah)
• Frederika Schneideman (Randwick)
• Grace Whyte (Tumut)
• Mia Baggett (Bathurst) 
• Monika ‘Otai (St George District)
• Millicent Tonkin (Newcastle)
• Samantha Bondietti (Manly Warringah)

2023 NSW 17U Team

• Allegra Mcdonald (Randwick)
• Ellie Hart (Campbelltown District)
• Evie Economou (Sutherland Shire)
• Hope White (Newcastle)
• Isabella Degei (Baulkham Hills Shire)
• Kelis Ogle (Liverpool City) 
• Nevaeh Matenga (Liverpool City) 
• Nicola Barge (Sutherland Shire)
• Olivia Harris (Penrith District)
• Sara Kent (St George District)
• Skye Thompson (Sutherland Shire)
• Yasmeen Janschek (Randwick)

Millions of Sydney and NSW rail commuters will now be able to catch a train without being unfairly hit by union disruption, following an agreement between the NSW Government and the Combined Rail Unions.
 
For too long school kids, people going to work and small businesses have had their lives and businesses turned upside down by industrial action by the rail unions.
 
Today we have put the people of Sydney first.
 
We have now agreed to a Fair Work Commission process which will result in a vote by the Combined Rail Unions and an ongoing arbitration process on a small number of outstanding items.
 
While these Fair Work Commission processes are underway, the Combined Rail Unions have agreed not to undertake any industrial action.

Vaucluse sports clubs and organisations are encouraged to apply for new life-saving devices through the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program.

Liberal candidate for Vaucluse, Kellie Sloane, welcomed the Perrottet Government program providing $2 million over four years to local sporting organisations and councils, so they can get equipped with defibrillators to respond to life-threating emergencies.

“We’re told by medical experts that the first eight minutes after a cardiac arrest are critical to a person’s survival, so early access to CPR and a defibrillator is essential in case of such an emergency,” said Ms Sloane. “With the Perrottet Government covering the full cost of up to three devices, I’m calling on all local clubs to apply to this potentially life-saving program.”

“With ten clubs across this electorate already participating, from the Bondi Bowling Club to Maccabi Hakoah Club, I think many more should also apply.

“Double Bay Sailing Club was awarded a grant for a defibrillator, which has been placed on response boats, so that when the club holds competitions it is accessible if there is ever an incident on water. I think it’s great how the club is looking after the safety of its members.”

Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said that since 2017 more than 2,000 devices have been installed at sports facilities across the State.

“Whether you’re at your local sailing club or playing footy with your mates, when someone has a cardiac arrest, time is crucial – they can happen to anyone, anytime, or anywhere so it’s vital
that a defibrillator is readily accessible,” Mr Henskens said.

“Through this funding, the NSW Liberals and National Government is ensuring our sport clubs and venues are safe environments for everyone, both on and off the field.”

The Local Sports Defibrillator Program is available to sport and recreation clubs, associations and organisations as well as councils and service clubs. Up to $3,000 is available per device with organisations able to apply for up to three devices.

Applications are open and close Friday, 10 February 2023. For more information on the Program, visit www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants.

The Perrottet Government is investing $774,000 in upgrading dentistry facilities and teaching equipment at TAFE NSW Randwick that will help train the next generation of dental technicians as part of a for students and staff.

Liberal candidates for Coogee and Vaucluse, Dr Kylie von Muenster and Kellie Sloane, welcomed this investment in the local TAFE and future health professionals.

“Dental and prosthetic technicians need to get a good handle on the tools of their future trade, and the Government’s investment in upgrading TAFE NSW Randwick gives our students an edge as they embark on their promising dental careers,” said Dr von Muenster.

“As someone who spent many years undertaking training to deliver allied health services, I know that my education really benefited from access to great equipment and facilities.”

“This funding for industry-leading equipment, such as new laboratory chairs, articulators, and micro-motors will support the delivery of in-demand training for dental technicians in Randwick, as students gain hands-on skills in denture making and the construction of mouthguards and orthodontic appliances.”

“The Perrottet Government has invested $3 million in TAFE NSW Randwick since 2019, to boost the quality of education for a variety of courses” said Ms Sloane. “The campus had recently received two Connected Learning Points to support virtual learning and new cameras, making our local TAFE the place to be for aspiring future cinematographers.”

“This funding clearly demonstrates the Perrottet Government’s commitment to giving this community great fit-for-purpose learning spaces they need to build their skills and get future jobs.”

Minister for Skills and Training Alister Henskens said the NSW Government is leading the nation in supporting people to get the skills they need for the jobs they want, which is helping grow the economy, securing a brighter future for the people of NSW.

“TAFE NSW trains 44 per cent of government funded TAFE students in Australia. It is the nation’s largest and best training provider, and we have invested record funding in TAFE NSW to ensure it continues to deliver a pipeline of skilled and job-ready workers,” Mr Henskens said.

“Our record skills budget is delivering more fee-free training which is helping people find indemand jobs and contributing to NSW’s low unemployment rate.”

For more information about courses available at TAFE NSW Randwick, visit www.tafensw.edu.au.

There’s never been a bigger year for active transport in New South Wales, with $117 million now invested this year towards walking and cycling paths as part of the Get NSW Active program. 
 
Minister for Active Transport Rob Stokes said the third and final tranche of the 2022 program would see $77 million in funding delivered for 161 projects across 45 councils.
 
“NSW is leading the nation when it comes to investment in new active transport infrastructure, building better footpaths and bike lanes in our cities and regions,” Mr Stokes said.
 
“More than $18 million has been committed to projects in Western Sydney and $20 million in regional NSW, where we’re seeing a growing demand for infrastructure that helps people walk and cycle safely.
 
“For children, older people, parents pushing prams or people with disabilities – a street without a footpath isn’t an inconvenience – it’s a barrier to moving freely in public space.
 
“That’s why we’ve already opened applications for Get NSW Active 2023 and we’re encouraging all councils to apply now.” 
 
Key projects to be delivered across the state include:

• $11.6 million to build a new permanent, separated bike lane along Oxford Street and Liverpool Street, providing a critical link between Taylor Square and the CBD.
• $3.8 million to build a boardwalk and shared path along the Hawkesbury River waterfront connecting Brooklyn Road with Kangaroo Point in Brooklyn.
• $3.2 million to build a two-way separated bike path on Kelly and Mary Ann Streets in Ultimo.
• $2 million to build the 4.6km Albury CBD Bike Loop, including on-road bike lands and eight raised pedestrian crossings.

Get NSW Active 2022 received 474 applications from councils across the state with 125 Greater Sydney projects and 158 regional projects receiving funding.
 
More than $200 million has already been allocated to more than 400 projects over the past five years of the Program, including Parramatta Escarpment Boardwalk, Inner West Greenway and Newcastle Light Rail Shared Path Stages 2 & 3.
 
A full list of the successful applicants is available here https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/system/files/media/documents/2022/2022-2023-Get-NSW-Active-Approved.pdf

Nine preschools across New South Wales will take part in a new study, providing free health and development tests for children before they start school.
 
The study will start today, with services expanded to 15 more locations in early 2023 before being offered to every NSW preschooler in 2024.
 
The state-wide program is an Australian first, with checks assessing hearing, vision, physical and cognitive development, social and emotional development, communication and skills.
 
The study will help inform the state-wide rollout of the program and will include different types of tests in different locations.
 
Premier Dominic Perrottet said the NSW Government was leading the nation with a $15.9 billion investment in early childhood commitments including health and development checks for children in preschools, to help ensure kids across the state reach their full potential.  
 
“This is about giving every child in our state the best start to life as possible,” Mr Perrottet said.
 
“The first few years of life are some of the most important for long-term health and development, which is why we are investing in this important program to help identify and minimise health and development issues or delays early on.”
 
Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said the study will run from late November 2022 until February 2023 in metropolitan, regional and remote areas.
 
“Education is the door to a brighter future, and these development checks are the keys for children across NSW to access the benefits of quality education,” Ms Mitchell said.
 
“I have witnessed the difference these early checks make first-hand after one of my children was identified with a speech impediment, and they are now thriving at school.”
 
Minister for Health Brad Hazzard said the program aims to give more families the support they need if it is discovered their child is not on track to meet key milestones.
 
“Child and family nurses, allied health professionals and early childhood educators will work together to support families so all kids are ready for school,” Mr Hazzard said.
 
“A child’s health and development plays an important part in their school journey and these checks will identify issues early so that action plans and support measures can be put in place early.”
 
Click here for information on the NSW Government’s Early Years Commitment.
 
Nine preschools taking part the study:

1. Oorunga Wandarrah MACS Centre, Airds 
2. Uniting Fredrick St Preschool, Rockdale
3. Forbes Preschool, Forbes
4. Bourke and District Children’s Services, Bourke
5. Mindaribba Preschool, Metford 
6. Woodberry Preschool, Woodberry
7. Gloucester Preschool, Gloucester 
8. Barrington St Preschool, Gloucester 
9. Stroud Preschool, Stroud