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Pollution rises again under Labor, government report shows

The latest quarterly emissions data shows that pollution has risen 2.5% from December to March, and is even higher than it was in the final days of the Morrison government. Emissions aren’t coming down, putting a safe climate out of reach.

438.4 million tonnes of emissions were released in the year to June 2022, the last quarter of the Morrison Government, and they sit at 440.2 million tonnes per annum in the quarterly report released today showing no real progress.

Emissions in electricity are up for the quarter and are worrying, because increased energy demand was driven by living in a hotter climate. Modest changes to electricity emissions over the year driven by renewables is not enough to decarbonise. The government needs to drive out fossil fuels everywhere.

Under Labor more coal, oil and gas means more pollution. Labor has approved 23 more coal and gas projects since coming to office. Fugitive emissions from coal are up 0.8% for the quarter.

LNG exports have driven the largest sectoral increase in emissions, a tragic 23% increase since 2005 and still the Albanese Government pushes a Future Gas Strategy beyond 2050.

Transport emissions are continuing to rise rapidly with a 2.6% increase. Labor must do more to drive the uptake of electric vehicles and public transport including more incentives, rapid charging infrastructure and targets for the phase out of new petrol cars.

The figures show that at the current rate, there is no prospect of Australia cutting its pollution consistent with limiting global warming to 1.5 or 2 degrees, the goals enshrined in the Paris Agreement.

Even Labor’s weak targets – which blow out past 2 degrees – are under threat from stubbornly high gas pollution. Emissions would need to decline an average 14.5 million tonnes a year to meet even Labor’s inadequate 2030 target, with the easiest, steepest cuts occurring right now. Instead, the data shows emissions reductions have stalled since Labor has come to office.

To make these emissions figures worse, the Albanese Government is seeking to expand coal and gas past 2050 as part of their Future Gas Strategy and Future Made in Australia plans.

Australian Greens leader in the Senate, Senator Larissa Waters:

“This emissions data spells disaster.

“Emissions aren’t coming down, and Labor’s commitment to coal and gas will see Australia blow any chance of meeting safe climate targets.

“At this rate, Labor won’t even meet its own unscientific climate targets, let alone what is needed to tackle the climate crisis.

“Gas is as dirty as coal. Climate pollution from gas is rising, but instead of cutting it, 23 coal and gas projects have been approved as part of Labor’s future gas strategy to run beyond 2050.”

Immigration chaos continues under Labor

Today’s announcement on international student caps is the result of Labor’s immigration mess which has placed unprecedented cost-of-living and housing pressures on Australians.

Under Labor’s Big Australia, the number of foreign students coming to the country has more than doubled.

This mismanagement of one of our most important exports is a mess of Labor’s own making and it’s taken far too long for Labor to wake up.

As we heard at the senate inquiry in Sydney yesterday, 500,000 international students have been forced into the private rental market.

While the Coalition welcomes student caps, we will examine the detail of today’s announcement.

Labor also needs to explain how its policy will reduce net migration and take pressure off the housing crisis?

We remain deeply concerned about the severe economic damage Labor has inflicted on regional and smaller universities, as well as private higher education providers, as a result of Ministerial Direction 107.

The Albanese government has treated the regions with contempt while looking after the Group of Eight universities where student visa approvals increased this year by 16 per cent. At the University of Sydney for instance, 50 per cent of students are now international.

It is shameful that Education Minister Jason Clare avoided so much scrutiny by keeping this announcement secret until today. This is another example of Labor failing the transparency test.

Labor fighting everything except inflation

The latest monthly inflation data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics confirms inflation is still homegrown, too high and sticky.

Headline CPI came in above market consensus at 3.5 per cent, while core inflation remains stubbornly high at 3.8 per cent. Fruit and vegetable prices have seen their highest rise since December 2022.

Since the election, the price of everything has gone up 10 per cent.

Under Labor, gas is up 33 per cent, electricity is up 14 per cent (even after taxpayer funded rebates) and rents are up 16 per cent.

Australia remains well and truly at the back of the pack among advanced economies.

This year, inflation has fallen in every major advanced economy. In Australia, it hasn’t.

Rate cuts are on the cards in other economies while in Australia the RBA has said they are not expecting any cuts this year.

Despite a worrying spike in imported inflation, homegrown inflation continues to outstrip imported inflation – at three times the pace.

These figures confirm that Labor is still failing to address the source of the inflation challenge. Labor’s attempts to manipulate the headline inflation rate are only temporary masks for the real issue.

This is a cost of living con job from a Labor government only putting band aids on bullet wounds.

This means Australians are still paying more at the checkout, the petrol pump, and on their bills due to Labor’s failed economic management.

Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor said the figures were the consequence of a Treasurer who is fighting everything but inflation.

“Inflation in Australia is homegrown, and it is stubborn. Australia is at the back of the pack and families are paying the price.

“Labor has had three budgets and two years to get this under control, instead they have spent more time fighting the Opposition than fighting inflation.

“Labor promised prices would be back under control by July this year. Instead, we have seen prices since the election rise by double digits – over 10 per cent. Inflation is running the economy, not Labor.

“Australia is in an entrenched GDP per capita and productivity recession, with no plan for productivity and no rate relief in sight. Australians’ living standards are collapsing by levels not seen in other advanced economies.

“Families and small businesses are losing hope and confidence.

“A Peter Dutton led Coalition government will get Australia back on track with a back to basics economic agenda. We will deliver strong economic management that fights inflation and boosts productivity.

“We will be absolutely focused on restoring Australians’ way of life.”

Blackout Bowen risking Australia’s energy security

The implications of the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) 2024 Electricity Statement of Opportunities advice are clear – Australia’s energy market is on a knifes-edge.

AEMO’s report confirms that most of the eastern states – Victoria, NSW and South Australia – are at risk of blackouts from this summer, and reliability gaps are set to deepen over the decade.

This is a direct consequence of Labor’s all-eggs-in-one-basket renewables only approach which aims to kill gas and force the premature closure of 24/7 baseload power stations.

Under Labor’s policy settings, with 90% of our baseload power will be forced out of the grid by 2034.

You cannot power the country on wishful thinking, nor rely on the same government which promised a $275 cut to household power bills, to keep the light on.

AEMO’s report admitted the extension of the Eraring coal plant is what’s keeping the lights on, proving that Labor’s failed energy policy is making them more reliant on coal, not less.

The Market Operator also admitted there is no wriggle room in Labor’s ideological renewable-only rollout. If projects aren’t delivered in line with Labor’s unrealistic timeline, the lights will go out unless there are further extensions of coal or a greater reliance on gas.

To meet Labor’s goal, nearly seven gigawatts of new renewable generation must be installed every year to 2030. In stark contrast, last year only 1.3 gigawatts achieved financial close.

The gap between promise and performance is widening, yet Labor continues to claim the transition is on track.

Labor has deliberately sought to cover up how close Australia came to a full-blown energy crisis this winter because it knows their ideological policies are to blame. It is only getting worse as energy demand increases and supply decreases, which eventually leads to rolling blackouts.

Labor is trying to blindfold Australians as it drives the economy towards an energy catastrophe.

City of Newcastle unveils vision for Waratah Park

A draft plan to maximise year-round use of the sporting fields at Waratah Park and enhance its accessibility, amenities and recreation opportunities has been developed to guide future upgrades.

City of Newcastle has worked with sporting groups and key stakeholders on the 10-year plan, which sets out a vision for the historic park and recreational precinct to meet the community’s needs.

City of Newcastle's Sports Infrastructure Working Party Chair Peta Winney-Baartz discusses the draft Masterplan with sports club representatives at Waratah Park. City of Newcastle’s Sports Infrastructure Working Party Chair Peta Winney-Baartz discusses the draft Masterplan with sports club representatives at Waratah Park.

It builds on recent improvements to the site, including the installation of cricket sight screens and upgraded changerooms at Waratah Oval, and the replacement of the existing playground with new equipment at Waratah Park. An upgrade of the cricket nets is also underway.

Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz, Chair of City of Newcastle’s Sports Infrastructure Working Party, said the masterplan would enhance the usage and accessibility of the site.

“City of Newcastle is committed to upgrading sporting facilities across the community for the benefit of all as part of our Strategic Sports Plan 2020,” Cr Winney-Baartz said.

“During the past 12 months, we have sought extensive feedback from key user groups including sporting groups and the nearby Callaghan College, to inform the development of the draft masterplan for Waratah Park.

“It includes provision for improved and inclusive amenities, leverages opportunities for passive and active recreation whilst retaining the heritage significance of the park.

“We look forward to sharing this plan with the broader community to seek additional feedback and support for its long-term vision.”

The draft masterplan will guide the staged provision of infrastructure to meet the recreation and sporting needs of the community.

This includes improving the field layout and upgrading the floodlights, irrigation and drainage to maximise the year-round use of the park, with the provision of five grounds for rugby union or league, three turf and one synthetic cricket wicket, and eight Oztag fields.

Upgraded amenities and a formalised car park with accessible parking spaces will ensure the precinct is more inclusive, while informal seating, a three metre wide shared pathway around the park, fitness stations and multi-sport court are also proposed.

Members of the community are invited to find out more and have their say online via City of Newcastle’s website by 27 September.

Big ideas for Newcastle backed by SBR city centre funding

Newcastle’s brightest minds in business, placemaking and culture will share in $850,000 of City of Newcastle funding that has delivered homegrown hits Shakespeare under the Stars, Sculptures at Scratchley and Big Picture Fest.

Whale Chorus Creative Director Janie Gibson and Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes

The latest Special Business Rates (SBR) funding round is open to applicants from Monday, offering a chance to back big ideas for Darby Street and the City Centre.

Recent successful applicants for SBR funding include the seaside spectacular Sculptures at Scratchley, street art blockbuster Big Picture Fest and popular Shakespeare under the Stars event by creative Janie Gibson who also leads Voices of Joan, the acclaimed production now headlining the Sydney Fringe Festival.

In an effort to increase the benefits to local businesses the SBR program will now encourage successful recipients to source at least 75 per cent of the associated supplies and services from businesses within the precinct.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said City of Newcastle through SBR funding has a proud record of strengthening the social, economic and cultural fabric of the city.

“This investment enriches local business precincts, and City of Newcastle takes pride in supporting events and initiatives that promote our city and boost our economy,” Cr Nelmes said.

“One benefit SBR is that it has supported Newcastle’s astonishing grassroots arts and cultural scene, with new events and activations drawing thousands of people to the city.”

Janie Gibson, Creative Director of Whale Chorus Theatre Company, is also the award-winning creator of the SBR-backed Joan of Arc reimagining Voices of Joan, who brought Shakespeare Under the Stars to thousands in Pacific Park in December with support through the funding.

Ms Gibson said the SBR funding can be a springboard for Novocastrians with big ideas

“The SBR program is an incredible initiative that invites creative activations to enrich our city. We had almost 2000 people come to Shakespeare Under the Stars last year,” Ms Gibson said.

“It is so exciting to see our city’s places come alive with theatre and bring our community together. I would encourage anyone with a great idea to apply.”

Kendall Brooks, Chair of the Newcastle City Centre Business Improvement Association, said the provision for grant recipients to source local in their projects would be a win for the whole community.

“The Special Business Rates grants program provides a range of opportunities and supports events, activations, beautification, and other innovative projects within the precinct,” Ms Brooks said.

“These initiatives directly benefit local businesses by increasing visitation and enhancing the precinct so it becomes an even more lively and attractive destination for dining, shopping, and leisure.”

Earlier this year, City of Newcastle took applications for a pool of $90,000 in SBR funding for projects in Wallsend and Hamilton.

The latest successful projects for Wallsend are Curious Legends’ Halloween event at Wallsend and Purple Card Project’s Wallsend Op Shop Trail. For Hamilton, the latest successful project is the Newcastle Fringe Festival 2025.

Expressions of interest for Darby Street and City Centre SBR funding open September 2 and close at 4pm October 7, 2024.

City of Newcastle will host online public information sessions on the process at 11am, September 10 and 5pm, September 12, 2024.

For more information including registration for the sessions visit: Special Business Rates Program – City of Newcastle (nsw.gov.au)

Ready for take off: Sydney Gateway opens Sunday

Sydney Gateway will open to traffic early Sunday morning, completing the final piece of the new toll-free connection to Sydney Airport.

After almost four years of construction and the efforts of more than 8000 workers, the Gateway was officially opened on Friday morning ahead of first vehicles expected by 4.30 am on Sunday.

The new five kilometres of motorway will transform airport access, saving drivers an estimated 17 minutes between the airport and the St Peters Interchange, which connects to the M8 and on to Western Sydney.

For drivers joining the motorway network from Campbelltown, Liverpool, Penrith or Parramatta, Sydney Gateway unlocks a traffic –light-free run all the way to the domestic terminal.

Sydney Gateway is designed to handle 100,000 vehicles a day, including up to 10,000 trucks, providing a more direct route to and from Port Botany while improving safety on local streets in and around Mascot.

As with all major project openings, Transport is expecting a period of adjustment while motorists get used to the new motorway.

People driving to the airport are advised to plan their trip in advance, allow plenty of time and familiarise themselves with driver animations released in July that show in detail the new route options, including entry points, exit points, signage and road markings.

For the first time on a major new motorway project, members of the public have reviewed signage and marking in advance, helping Transport to make 100 improvements.

Sydney Airport will have in place kerb-side management measures at the international and domestic terminals to facilitate traffic flow through the airport, and Transport will be working with Sydney Airport to ensure drop off points are managed

The $2.6 billion project has opened in stages since November last year to maximise construction efficiency and minimise disruption. This included the unveiling of the Deborah Lawrie Flyover into the airport’s domestic terminals, two twin arch bridges close to the international terminal and a new and improved Airport Drive.

To prepare for the opening the community is encouraged to view the driver animation and flyover videos of the complete journey options of Sydney Gateway HERE

Minister for Roads John Graham said:

“I want to thank the more than 8000 workers who built Sydney Gateway. It will transform the way we drive to and from Sydney Airport – and hopefully take a little of the stress out of making a flight or meeting a loved one when traffic is heavy.”

“This will help millions of Sydneysiders in and out of the airport in a smoother way, but also take up to 10,000 trucks a day heading to Port Botany off local streets.”

“While Transport and Sydney Airport have been working hard to ensure the opening is a smooth take-off, I urge drivers to familiarise themselves with the new routes through the driver animations and expect some traffic impacts in the opening period”

Transport for NSW Deputy Secretary Camilla Drover said:

“Sydney Gateway construction has progressed well throughout the project such that we are fully opening to traffic ahead of time and within budget.

“Sydney Gateway is another first-class feat of Australian engineering and workmanship and I thank the 8000 workers who built this major road infrastructure project.

“We look forward to welcoming the first cars on the final stage of this transformative project for the airport precinct and Port Botany.”

Transport for NSW Coordinator General Howard Collins said:

“It’s appropriate we are fully opening Sydney Gateway this Sunday on the first day of spring – the season of new beginnings.

“The new connections between the airport precinct and the motorway network at St Peters Interchange will give motorists a more direct, time-saving and safer link without having to drive through local Mascot roads.

“We encourage people to take another look at the in-car driver animations as we want to help people feel better prepared and more at ease before they drive the new routes on Sydney Gateway.

“Transport for NSW is ready for opening and has established a Joint Operations Centre at the Transport Management Centre, where the road network can be monitored and adjusted in response to any congestion or incidents.”

Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton said:

“We’re excited to see Sydney Gateway open to the public – a critical piece of infrastructure that will significantly reduce travel time from the west, enhancing connectivity and convenience for our passengers.

“Gateway will also bring substantial benefits to our local community by diverting cars and trucks off local roads and alleviating congestion.

“To support the opening, we’re ramping up our kerbside operations and doubling the number of kerbside staff to ensure a smooth and efficient experience.”

NSW bird flu response in Hawkesbury and around ACT pulls back after clean-up

The NSW Government today announced the easing of emergency zones in the Hawkesbury and around the ACT, as biosecurity clean up actions to eradicate high pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H7N8 strain enter the final phase.

From Thursday 29 August 2024 the emergency zone significantly reduced in size with many properties which were in the emergency zone no longer needing permits for moving birds, poultry products, feed and equipment.

Emergency zones have been made smaller around the two chicken and egg farm sites, and four backyard chicken sites that were near those farms, as biosecurity specialists complete their decontamination activities.

In addition, the NSW emergency order to manage the avian influenza detection in the ACT has also been revoked.

The Government’s avian influenza response and eradication actions in the Hawkesbury included:

4,016 samples tested
76,000 text messages to property owners
1,500 targeted surveillance letters sent to backyard bird owners
500-plus property surveillance contacts
300-plus Emergency Animal Disease phone calls received
15 community events with educational support for schools, pet shops and local veterinarians, pop-up stalls and webinars

The NSW Government’s ongoing commitment to biosecurity and primary industries, will see work continue closely with stakeholders to monitor the situation and help prevent any future outbreaks.

With the easing of emergency zones, poultry farmers and pet bird owners are encouraged to remain vigilant and adhere to recommended biosecurity practices.

If you notice any unusual symptoms in your birds, please contact a veterinarian or call the Emergency Animal Disease hotline, 1800 675 888.

Information is available online at: Avian Influenza information.

NSW Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty said:

“Thanks must go to the community and poultry industry for assisting our Government in getting this outbreak under control so swiftly.

“Their exceptional efforts and vigilance in reporting, adhering to biosecurity measures and cooperating with the biosecurity emergency orders has allowed these zone changes.

“This collective effort has been crucial in protecting the health and safety of our poultry and egg industries.”

NSW Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Jo Coombe said:

“The collaborative efforts between organisations, including the poultry industry, local councils and government agencies, were crucial in preventing further spread and supporting those affected.

“The swift response and proactive measures of all involved has stopped the virus spreading any further and shows how biosecurity is everyone’s responsibility.”

Opening doors for Aboriginal students in public schools across NSW

Aboriginal students from around the state will now have greater access to a program designed to provide valuable work experience and nationally recognised qualifications while still at school.

NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE, and Tertiary Education Steve Whan announced a new round of the Djinggi School-Based Traineeship Program while visiting students completing school-based traineeships at Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo earlier this week.

The Djinggi Program, funded by the NSW Department of Education’s Elsa Dixon Aboriginal Employment Grant, offers Aboriginal students undertaking the HSC, the opportunity to become school-based trainees.

Djinggi, meaning stars in the Yuin language, plays a critical role in building the next generation of Aboriginal professionals within the Department of Education, as student trainees will work in public schools, preschools, or the department’s corporate offices.

The 2024 Program is set to expand its reach, offering opportunities up to 100 Aboriginal public-school students. Last year, the Program was open to 50 students, with an impressive 90% completion rate.

Over two years, students will balance school, paid work, and training, earning a qualification that contributes to their HSC (Higher School Certificate).

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

“Last year I had the opportunity to see first-hand the incredible impact this collaboration had on our First Nations students, and I am pleased the NSW Government is expanding this program to reach more young people.

“Students not only gain a nationally recognised qualification through paid work and training, but they have the opportunity for employment by the NSW Public Sector.

“Importantly this program helps connect our Aboriginal students with their culture while learning and working alongside local Elders.”

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

“It’s an incredible opportunity for these young people to gain skills and confidence that will serve them throughout their lives.

“By expanding the Djinggi Program to reach 100 public school students in 2024, we are opening doors to even more Aboriginal students, helping them to shine in their future careers.

“The Djinggi Program is more than just a traineeship – it’s a beacon of opportunity for Aboriginal students across NSW. It supports their journey towards success in the workforce, helping them to become the stars they are meant to be.”

NSW Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, David Harris said:

“I am proud the NSW Government has doubled the number of Aboriginal public-school students offered this wonderful opportunity to set themselves up for life with invaluable training and work placements.

“We know that when Closing the Gap solutions are designed, led, and implemented by Aboriginal people and communities, in partnership with the government, we get better outcomes, and the Djinggi Program is an excellent example of this.”

Independent review recommends reforms to opals industry

The Independent Review into the Statutory Framework for Small-Scale Titles for Opal Mining has issued its final report with 81 recommendations to enhance and support the opal mining industry’s sustainability and efficacy.

Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos commissioned the Independent Review following a departmental review of administrative processes which uncovered 3,343 minerals claims in Lightning Ridge and White Cliffs impacted by invalid decisions.

The review was undertaken by former Land and Environment Court Judge and NSW Attorney General, Terry Sheahan AO, with the support of law firm Norton Rose Fulbright Australia.

The NSW Government is today releasing the report and is available at www.nsw.gov.au/small-scale-titles-review

The Independent Review analysed the statutory framework of small-scale opals titles, issues such as land access and landholder compensation, and listened to stakeholder views to form its recommendations. In addition to stakeholder meetings, 369 written submissions were considered by Mr Sheahan.

The report covers a range of topics crucial to the industry’s operation, including:

Balancing stakeholder rights and responsibilities,
Improving rehabilitation and environmental outcomes,
Updating cost and compensation structures,
Improving understanding and usability of the legislative framework, and
Modernising the administration of titles.

The NSW Government will carefully consider the Independent Review’s recommendations and will publish its response before the end of the year.

Minister Houssos will convene a small working group comprising key stakeholders to inform that response.

A staged approach to implementation will be required, with many of the recommendations requiring further consultation with stakeholders and legislative change.

Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos:

“The NSW Government will consider the recommendations and develop a government response later this year.

“We understand how important opal mining is to the Lightning Ridge and White Cliffs communities. That’s why we first announced the independent review into this legacy issue we inherited.

“The NSW Government is committed to consulting with miners, land holders, Aboriginal representatives and local communities as we develop a response to the Independent Review.”

NSW Government’s envoy for opal mining Stephen Lawrence:

“This working group will allow the NSW Government to address the report and its 81 recommendations in the best possible way.

“Working with the opal mining communities of Lightning Ridge and White cliffs, as well as other stakeholders, is vital to ensuring the NSW Government can implement meaningful change for the industry.”

Independent Reviewer Terry Sheahan AO:

“The Review received 369 submissions on the issues paper into the Statutory Framework for Small-Scale Titles in New South Wales.

“These submissions, as well as to face engagement with key stakeholders, have greatly assisted the Independent Review in considering how to address rehabilitation, land use conflict, current administrative processes, and the need to modernise the current framework.

“The Independent Review has provided a range of recommendations that aim to establish a better regulatory framework that supports the future of the opal mining industry while addressing certain issues raised by stakeholders.”