Category: Australian News

Senator Faruqi, Deputy Leader of the Australian Greens and spokesperson for Anti-Racism:

“I welcome a report that rightly puts Islamophobia on the national agenda. The government now needs to act on the structural and institutionalised nature of Islamophobia and respond to concerns that have been raised by communities for years.

“This report confirms yet again the depth and breadth of racism Muslim communities face in this country. Islamophobia goes well beyond horrific incidents targeting individuals. Islamophobia is structural and must be addressed as such.

“It is good to see this report aligning with the National Anti-Racism Framework to tackle Islamophobia. This report must be used hand in hand with the Framework, which provides a blueprint for an anti-racist Australia that protects First Nations communities and all racially marginalised communities.

“For years, Muslim communities have pleaded successive governments to take Islamophobia seriously, but they have repeatedly failed to treat Islamophobic hate as the emergency it is. This report should jolt the government into action to change course and finally act on racism with the seriousness it requires.

“Politicians neglecting and denying the existence of Islamophobia has led to its unprecedented rise since Israel’s genocide in Gaza. Dehumanising Muslims, Arabs and Palestinians while gaslighting and vilifying those daring to highlight the existence of this hate has really harmed these communities. Now is the time to reset.”

Greens Senator David Shoebridge, spokesperson for Justice and Home Affairs:

“The Greens support an independent review of counter-terrorism laws, practices and policies with a focus on removing discrimination against Muslim-Australian communities.

“My office has had repeated contact from members of the Muslim community with glaring examples of policing, especially counter terrorism policing, that are grossly unevenly applied against the Muslim community.

“Home Affairs must ensure that it is there to support Muslim Australians with funding, engagement and respect. This is a necessary culture change that will require leadership from the Minister down and a change in rhetoric and enforcement practices that too often marginalise Muslim Australians.

“This report rightly highlights the link between anti-Palestinianism and Islamophobia and the appalling responses that members of the Palestinian and Arab communities have suffered for their public calls to end a genocide. Politicians who fuel this anger must take responsibility and be held to account.”

The Australian Greens have called Labor’s decision to rubber stamp an extension to Woodside’s North West Shelf project ‘a betrayal’ to voters hoping for strong climate action.

Earlier today, the Environment Minister gave final approval to extend Woodside’s mega-polluting North West Shelf gas project through to 2070.

This approval will generate up to 6.1 billion tonnes of emissions over its lifetime and threaten to push whole ecosystems to the brink of collapse. 

It will become the biggest new fossil fuel project in the Southern Hemisphere.

Last year was the hottest year on record, and scientists have made it clear: any new coal or gas project makes things worse.

The extension puts the rock art at Murujuga on the Burrup Peninsula at critical risk, and has been subject to a three year Federal Court action under the Aboriginal Heritage Protection Act (AHPA) led by Raelene Cooper.

This extension will also increase the likelihood of a massive gas field being built on the pristine Scott Reef, home to threatened endangered species like the green sea turtle and pygmy blue whale.

The science consistently tells us that in order to keep warming under 1.5 degrees, we must be committing to net zero by 2035.

This will not happen while Labor continues to back more coal and gas.

Leader of the Australian Greens, Senator Larissa Waters:

“Labor has caved to pressure from a dirty gas corporation. This approval is a betrayal and a disastrous decision for the future of our planet.

“Our environmental laws, which allow the Environment Minister to sign off on projects that will make the climate crisis worse, are broken. Minister Watt’s next test is to enshrine environmental laws that protect the climate so another massive gas project like this is never approved in Australia.

“In a time where we have been living through a once-in-a-decade weather event almost every year, this approval will mean more intense floods, fires and species extinctions, plus more pollution each year than all of Australia’s coal stations combined. 

“This extension also endangers the sacred Murujuga rock art that includes the earliest depiction of the human face on the planet. And it puts pressure on beautiful Scott Reef and on the Kimberley for new fracking sites to feed this hungry gas plant.

“People believed Labor when they said they’d take real action on the climate crisis, but instead in the first 6 months of this parliament they’ve caved again to the pressure of coal and gas profits. 

“People didn’t vote for Woodside’s carbon bomb.”

Australian Greens environment spokesperson, Senator Sarah Hanson-Young:

“The approval of Woodside’s climate bomb has blown apart Labor’s credibility on protecting our climate and environment. On the eve of the government announcing the 2025 climate targets, this is a terrible sign that the fossil fuel companies are still dictating government policy.

“This decision highlights why we need new environment laws. It’s beggars belief that in 2025, the Environment Minister is signing off on fossil fuel projects that will make the climate crisis worse.

“It is devastating that so soon after the public elected one of the most progressive parliaments in Australia’s history, one of the new Environment Minister’s first acts in the job has been approving one of the biggest, dirtiest gas projects in Australia out to 2070.

“We cannot protect our climate, nature and heritage sites like the Murujuga rock art while we are digging up and burning more and more fossil fuels.

“The Albanese Government has a choice to make. They can work with the Greens to bring in new environment laws that actually protect nature and our climate or they can work with the Liberal party and the Minerals Council to make it even easier for massive carbon bomb projects like this to be approved.

“This monstrous gas expansion will be an environmental disaster – unleashing gas pollution on a huge scale, destroying cultural heritage and threatening pristine ecosystems like Scott Reef, home to threatened endangered species like the green sea turtle and the pygmy blue whale.”

Legislation to strengthen protections for victim-survivors of sexual abuse and toughen penalties for perpetrators has passed NSW Parliament.

The suite of amendments to the Crimes Act 1900 which passed the upper house last night include ensuring offenders who either sexually assault someone or indecently interfere with their body after death cannot escape prosecution, if the time of death is unknown.

The Minns Labor Government thanks the families of Mona Lisa and Jacinta Rose “Cindy” Smith for their tireless advocacy for this reform following their tragic deaths in 1987.

Under the amendment, when it is beyond reasonable doubt that one of these two crimes occurred, but it is uncertain which due to the timing of death, the accused will be sentenced according to whichever offence has the lesser maximum penalty.

Previously, they would have gone unpunished. The reform is in direct response to the 2024 coronial findings into the girls’ deaths.

Other amendments to the Crimes Act which passed the Legislative Council on Thursday bring NSW into line with other jurisdictions and respond to gaps in existing legislation including:

• Raising the threshold for the definition of ‘child’ from 16 to 18 years for child abuse material offences in line with Commonwealth offences.
• Strengthening laws criminalising female genital mutilation, ensuring they are in line with community expectations. The amendments clearly state that female genital mutilation is a crime regardless of the reason, motivation or age of the victim, while ensuring medically necessary practices are protected.
• Making it easier to prosecute people who commit sexual acts in the presence of children with improper intent because of the presence of the child.

This passage of the Crimes Amendment (Sexual Offences and Female Genital Mutilation) Bill 2025 is part of the NSW Government’s work to build a safer NSW where women and children are protected and perpetrators held to account. Previous reforms include:

• Making it harder than ever for alleged domestic violence offenders to get bail.
• Introducing electronic monitoring for alleged serious domestic violence offenders.
• Strengthening laws to protect against repeated breaches of ADVOs.
• Making changes to bail courts across New South Wales to ensure bail decisions are made by magistrates and judges – not registers.

Attorney General Michael Daley said:

”It is not acceptable for a perpetrator to escape accountability because of a legal technicality.

“The passage of this important legislation means the historical injustice inflicted upon the families of Mona and Cindy will never be repeated.

“It strengthens protections for victim-survivors while making it easier to hold the perpetrators of sexual violence to account.”

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison said:

“These changes are an important part of the Government’s work to strengthen protections for women and children, as well as holding perpetrators to account for acts of sexual violence.

“We are working with stakeholders and advocates to make sure victim-survivors get the protections and support they deserve.”

A 27-year-old electrician who was homeless at 15 and is now preparing to buy her first home has been named NSW’s Apprentice of the Year.

Sydney-based Kathryn Beale, who was a mature-aged apprentice, received the top individual award at the NSW Training Awards, with Wagga Wagga Council employee Imogen Young-Maloney named Trainee of the Year.

The annual awards celebrate excellence across vocational education and training, recognising outstanding students, trainers, providers and employers. In 2025, regional NSW shone brightly, with most awards going to individuals living and working outside metro Sydney.

Ms Beale was recognised for her technical expertise and commitment to excellence in her electrical apprenticeship with NECA Group Training, hosted by Star Electrical. Now a qualified electrician working on major construction and infrastructure projects, she is also mentoring colleagues, promoting diversity and inspiring the next generation of tradespeople.

Ms Young-Maloney was honoured for her resilience and proactive approach to overcoming work challenges as a trainee business support officer at Wagga Wagga City Council. She champions vocational education as a pathway for students still exploring their careers, frequently promoting opportunities and fairs and expos.

Presented by Training Services NSW and in its 70th year, the NSW Training Awards highlight the vital role of vocational education in building skilled workforces and stronger communities.

Award winners will now represent NSW at the Australian Training Awards in Darwin on 5 December.

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

“I congratulate all the winners and finalists at the 2025 NSW Training Awards whose achievements are a powerful reminder of how vocational education and training uplifts futures and strengthens our communities, industries and economy.

“Our future prosperity is dependent on growing our skilled workforce, and role models like our Training Awards winners are essential in breaking down stereotyped about VET careers.

As our winners head to Darwin for the Australian Training Awards in December, I know they’ll fly the NSW flag with pride. They’re the best of the best, and I’m confident they’ll inspire the nation, just as they’ve inspired us here at home.”

Apprentice of the Year, Kathryn Beale, said:  

“The decision to pursue an electrical apprenticeship was driven by my desire to develop a skill set that would allow me to take on more responsibility, gain hands-on experience, and achieve long-term stability in the industry.

“Despite the challenges of being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, I have gained confidence and resilience, which have further reinforced my commitment to this trade and my personal growth.

“This training pathway has truly been a transformative journey for me. I was homeless at 15 and now am almost ready to buy my own home.”

Trainee of the Year, Imogen Young-Maloney, said:  

“Education and careers are not ‘one size fits all’. There are so many different paths you can take, and it’s never too late to change direction. I want people to see what vocational education can offer and to know that the same opportunities are out there for them too.

“Vocational training gave me the chance to explore a pathway I might not have considered otherwise, and it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made. I’d encourage others to stay open to opportunities, try new things, and not feel pressured to have all the answers right away.”

The full list of winners can be found below:
 

Individual

Category	Winner	Qualification	Employer	Region	Suburb
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year	James Barry	Certificate III in Guiding	Balloon Aloft Hunter Valley	Hunter & Central Coast	Cessnock
Apprentice of the Year	Kathryn Beale	Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician	NECA Electrical Apprenticeships	Southern & South-west Sydney	Middleton Grange
School-based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year	Amali Rollinson	Certificate III in Hairdressing	Blush Hair and Beauty Bar Bathurst	Western NSW	The Lagoon
Trainee of the Year	Imogen Young-Maloney	Certificate III in Business	Wagga Wagga City Council	Riverina	Kooringal
VET in Schools Student of the Year	Darby Hubber	Certificate II in Agriculture	Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst	Western NSW	Cowra
VET Trainer/Teacher of the Year	Penelope Mackay	Business & Hospitality	Catholic Education Diocese of Wagga Wagga	Riverina	Turvey Par
Vocational Student of the Year	Rebecca Hambrook	Certificate IV in Community Services	Weigelli Centre Aboriginal Corporation	Western NSW	Cowra

Organisation

Category	Winner
Industry Collaboration	Casino Food Company Ltd and TAFE NSWCollaboration title: Skills for the Future: TAFE NSW & The Casino Food Company Partnership
Small Employer of the Year	Muswellbrook Preschool Kindergarten Inc.
Large Employer of the Year	Australian Rail Track Corporation
Small Training Provider of the Year	CWBTS(City-wide Building & Training Services)
Large Training Provider of the Year	TAFE NSW

The Minns Labor Government today announced a $10 million investment to boost rugby in NSW in the lead up to Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 through a Legacy Program.

The Legacy Program will provide funding to support the development of rugby at all levels across NSW through community programs, workforce initiatives and activation hubs as well grants for infrastructure, equipment and participation.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to investing in grassroot sport, helping to boost participation and build better communities for NSW. This Legacy Program will focus on growing participation and creating more opportunities for people to be involved in rugby as players, coaches, officials and administrators.

It will also deliver projects that will keep rugby safe and inclusive for women, girls, people with a disability and Pasifika and First Nations communities.

Leveraging excitement during the build-up to the tournament to engage supporters and capture new participants will also be a focus of the program with a range of community initiatives and activations to be delivered prior to and during the event.

Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 NSW Legacy Program will run from 2025-2028 and be delivered by the NSW Government in collaboration with Rugby Australia, Rugby NSW and the ACT Brumbies.

NSW Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:

“The Minns Labor Government is a proud supporter of the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027.”

“The tournament will see the world’s best players compete for the greatest prize in men’s rugby, the William Webb Ellis CUP.

“But we don’t just want to host the tournament, we want to ensure it leaves a legacy for the sport at all levels, from grassroots to elite.

“So, whether it’s a girl or boy lacing up their boots for the first time at their local club or an elite pathway player, they will all benefit from Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 Legacy Program.”

Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh said:

“Rugby Australia extends its sincere thanks to the NSW Government for its outstanding support of rugby across the State.

“Today’s announcement of a legacy program ahead of the home Rugby World Cup in 2027 demonstrates NSW’s strong backing of rugby at all levels and will ensure the benefits of this once-in-a-generation event will live on long after the final whistle sounds.

“From grassroots clubs that galvanise communities to our Teams in Gold that unite and inspire the nation, rugby has a unique ability to positively impact our society socially, culturally and economically. 

“The Rugby World Cup in 2027 will be a wonderful demonstration of the passion and cohesion that define our great international game and we look forward to working in partnership with the NSW Government to deliver a truly unforgettable event in the State.”

Chris Stanley, Managing Director Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027:

“Hosting the Rugby World Cup in Australia is not only a chance to showcase the very best rugby on the planet, but also an opportunity to amplify the lasting legacy a tournament of this scale can deliver.

“Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 will be one of the most accessible in history, with more than one million tickets priced under $100 and children’s tickets starting from just $20.

“With the support of the NSW Government, 17 matches will be staged across Sydney and Newcastle, giving fans across the State more opportunities than ever before to see the world’s best rugby players live in action.”

Rugby NSW CEO Peter Murphy said:

“This is an investment in the future of rugby and in the communities that bring our game to life.

“The Legacy Program will improve facilities, create pathways for young talent, grow the women’s game, and ensure rugby is accessible to all.

“Hosting the World Cup is not just about the matches themselves, it’s about inspiring participation, building community connections and leaving a legacy that will last for decades.

“This investment ensures people across NSW – from Western Sydney to regional communities, will benefit long after the tournament is over.”

ACT and Southern NSW Rugby Union CEO Craig Leseberg said:

“We are extremely grateful to the NSW Government for their generous legacy investment and excited by the tangible and long-lasting impact it will have on community rugby clubs right across our region.

“This investment will enable us to significantly boost participation programs in schools and clubs, and deliver projects that make our sport more accessible for everyone, including expanded female and Indigenous opportunities.

“While also progressing key infrastructure projects and enhancing pathway opportunities for young boys and girls into our elite teams.

“Ensuring access to life changing opportunities through rugby, as we inspire the next generation of young players across Southern NSW to get involved and make their mark on our great global game.”

Construction is underway on a major upgrade at Rouse Hill High School, as part of the Minns Labor Government’s work to rebuild public education and address enrolment demand in the growing Hills Shire region after more than a decade of neglect under the former Liberal-National Government.

The multi-million-dollar upgrade includes a new two-storey building with 11 modern classrooms and two science labs, increasing the school’s capacity from 960 to 1200 students.

The upgrade to Rouse Hill High School is set to be complete and open to students and staff on Day 1, Term 1, 2027.

The upgrade forms part of the Minns Labor Government’s record investment in public education, which is delivering a total of seven new and upgraded schools across The Hills region.

Today, the Minns Labor Government can also confirm the site currently housing the Box Hill temporary schools has been acquired for a future permanent public school and preschool.

This will be in addition to the two new public primary schools, two new public preschools and a new high school currently being delivered in Box Hill and Gables, the first public schools to be built in the suburbs.

Under the former Liberal-National Government, Box Hill did not receive any investment in new school infrastructure despite student enrolment growth of 1114 per cent in just five years, leading to pressure on nearby schools, including Rouse Hill High School.

The former Liberal-National Government’s neglect of schools in Sydney’s North West left communities without vital permanent infrastructure and playground space, as hundreds of demountables were imposed on school sites.

The Minns Labor Government’s 2025-26 Budget delivers a record $9 billion for school infrastructure across NSW, including $3.9 billion for new and upgraded schools in Western Sydney.

In addition, the Minns Labor Government is investing in almost 600 new permanent classrooms through new and upgraded schools in Sydney’s North West, with 240 classrooms in the Hills Shire alone, creating space for thousands more students across the community.

The Minns Labor Government is also removing nearly 50 demountable classrooms from schools in the Hills Shire, providing more critical playground space for students.

School infrastructure projects recently delivered or in the planning, design and construction phase in the Hills Shire and surrounding areas, include:

• Box Hill Public School and public preschool – new permanent school
• New high school for Box Hill
• New public primary school and public preschool for Gables
• New public primary school and public preschool for Grantham Farm
• Rouse Hill High School – upgrade
• Castle Hill Public School – upgrade
• Excelsior Public School – upgrade
• Matthew Pearce Public School – upgrade

In addition to building classrooms where they are needed, the Minns Labor Government’s work to rebuild public education includes ensuring each classroom has a qualified teacher.

Since March 2023, the Minns Labor Government has reduced teacher vacancies by 61 per cent across the state, leading to the number of cancelled classes recorded in NSW nearly halving. In The Hills, there were 67.5% fewer vacancies than at the same time in 2022.

Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos said:

“The Rouse Hill High School upgrade is part of the massive school infrastructure pipeline the Minns Labor Government is delivering for families in North West Sydney, where the former Liberal-National Government failed to invest.

“Through the leadership of the Deputy Premier and Education Minister Prue Car, the Minns Labor Government’s $460 million investment in seven new and upgraded schools, plus two new public preschools, means more families across The Hills will have access to a world class public education close to home.

“In the past 50 years, only Labor Governments have delivered high schools in The Hills, including the new Box Hill High School the Minns Government is building.

“We’re also beginning the significant job of removing demountables the former Liberal-National Government dumped on schools across the Hills, replacing them with modern classrooms and returning valuable play space to students.”

Federal Member for Greenway Michelle Rowland said:

“Today’s sod turn is just another way Labor is delivering for communities and families in the Hills. 

“Sydney’s North West is growing at a rapid rate, and these upgrades will ensure that local students in my community have access to the facilities they need to thrive, close to home.

“This upgrade is long overdue and will support students in The Hills for years to come.”

Rouse Hill High School Principal Simon Kelly said:

“It’s wonderful to see construction underway on this upgrade, and these new facilities will support our growing student population.

“We look forward to seeing construction take shape and to make the most of our new facilities once they open in 2027.”

NSW is another step closer to building a reliable, affordable energy system, following planning approval for the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone project.

The NSW Government is fast tracking the state’s first Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) that upgrades existing grid infrastructure such as distribution poles and wires. This approach will reduce the impact on communities and the environment.

The network upgrades, which will enable 1 gigawatt (GW) of network transfer capacity, include upgrades to existing distribution lines and the construction of two new substations.

Projects like the Hunter-Central Coast REZ are key to the Minns Labor Government’s energy plan. Right now, around 36% of NSW’s electricity comes from renewable sources. The projects we’ve backed already will move us over two-thirds of the way to our 2030 renewable energy generation goal, and about 40% of the way to our 2030 long-duration storage target.

Full planning approval was achieved following the exhibition of the Review of Environmental Factors and a review of submissions by councils, state authorities, businesses and individuals.

The Hunter-Central Coast REZ network infrastructure has been assessed as having a relatively low environmental impact, as most of the works are taking place on existing easements.

Ausgrid has committed to addressing the Review of Environmental Factors feedback, which included priorities such as jobs, support for local businesses and procurement, protection of visual amenity and environment, community benefits, effective traffic management and ongoing community engagement.

The REZ is forecast to create an average of approximately 590 direct jobs per year in the local area during construction, including roles for engineers, electricians and labourers. Ausgrid is committed to prioritising jobs and skills training, local procurement and Aboriginal business participation.

The project is now subject to final approvals from the Australian Energy Regulator.

The Review of Environmental Factors is available for download, at Ausgrid.com.au/HCCREZ.

This project is separate to the Hunter Transmission Project Environmental Impact Statement currently on public exhibition.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe:

“Planning approval for the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone project is further evidence of progress on a key upgrade that will help keep the lights on as coal-fired power plants retire.

“Upgrading existing distribution poles and wires allows us to minimise the impact on communities and the environment, and speeds up the delivery of this critical infrastructure.”

Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley:

“The Hunter-Central Coast region has always been a powerhouse for industry and innovation and now it’s taking a bold step forward into the clean energy future.

“Fast-tracking the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone is about more than just new poles and substations, it’s about delivering affordable, long-lasting energy while creating good jobs, supporting local businesses and protecting our communities and environment.

“By upgrading existing infrastructure, we’re minimising disruption, maximising benefits and ensuring our local communities are at the heart of the state’s renewable transformation.”

Minister for the Central Coast, David Harris:

“This important milestone in the development of the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone project is good news for communities in the Central Coast and Hunter.

“The REZ will help ensure a reliable and sustainable energy future for our regions.”

EnergyCo chief executive Hannah McCaughey:

“Fast tracking the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone project is part of EnergyCo’s plan to keep the lights on for everyone in New South Wales, while providing tangible benefits to Hunter communities and their economies.

Ausgrid CEO, Marc England:

“Finalising the Review of Environmental Factors marks a significant milestone toward delivering upgraded network infrastructure that supports clean, reliable energy for the Hunter–Central Coast region.

“Ausgrid is committed to working closely with landowners and local stakeholders as we enable a lower cost transition that reduces the impact on our communities.”

Additional information for media:

What is a Renewable Energy Zone?

REZs will group new wind and solar power generation into locations where it can be efficiently stored and transmitted across NSW.

Five zones have been identified and will keep NSW electricity reliable as coal-fired power stations retire, delivering large amounts of new energy to power our regions and cities.

REZs will help deliver lower wholesale electricity costs and place downward pressure on customer bills through increased competition, while supporting local jobs and business opportunities during construction and operation.

What is the Hunter-Central Coast REZ?

The Hunter-Central Coast REZ will be the first renewable energy zone in Australia to upgrade existing distribution poles and wires.

The REZ has an intended network capacity of 1 gigawatt (GW) and stretches from the Upper Hunter in the north to the Central Coast in the south and includes the Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Port Stephens regions.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese attended the 54th Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders’ Meeting in Solomon Islands from 10 to 11 September.

Prime Minister Albanese joined Pacific Leaders in signing the Pacific Resilience Facility Treaty, establishing the first Pacific-led regional climate financing mechanism. 

The Facility will provide small-scale grants to local communities to help them better prepare for and withstand the impacts of climate change. Australia is the largest capital contributor, having committed $100 million. The first call for grant proposals will go out to communities in 2026.

Pacific Leaders also reaffirmed their shared commitment to Australia’s bid to host a Pacific COP31. This will bring global attention to the Pacific’s climate leadership and our region’s unique challenges, and drive tangible action.

Australia stood with Pacific Leaders in declaring the Blue Pacific an Ocean of Peace, calling on the international community to respect Pacific-led approaches to peace and security.

Prime Minister Albanese met Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele to congratulate him on Solomon Islands’ successful hosting of PIF, which Australia was proud to support. Prime Ministers also discussed the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force expansion partnership and announced the start of the design process for an Australian-funded police academy in Honiara.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

“The Pacific Islands Forum unites our region and makes us stronger – it is key to realising the vision of Pacific leaders for a peaceful, stable and prosperous region.

“Australia is a partner the region can count on. It is in our interests to foster a safe and resilient region that enables all our economies to grow and prosper together.

“The Pacific Resilience Facility is more than a fund, it is a promise to Pacific communities that they will not face climate threats alone.

“Our region is on the frontline of the climate crisis — this is the single largest threat to the livelihoods, culture and security of Pacific communities.

“The Ocean of Peace Declaration is a powerful statement of Pacific resolve, building on Prime Minister Rabuka’s vision for a region of stability, prosperity and security.”

The Albanese Government is investing $1.7 billion to acquire a new fleet of Australian­‑designed and built extra-large autonomous undersea vehicles – known as the Ghost Shark – for the Royal Australian Navy.                       

Defence has signed a contract with Anduril Australia for the delivery, maintenance and continued development of the Ghost Shark over the next five years. 

The cutting edge platform is designed to conduct intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and strike operations, stealthily and at long range. It will deliver a significant boost to Australia’s undersea warfare capabilities – complementing Navy’s future surface combatant fleet and conventionally‑armed, nuclear‑powered submarines. 

This announcement builds on the approximately $140 million the Australian Government has already invested in the development of the Ghost Shark platform, payloads and production facilities since entering into a collaborative contract with Anduril in 2022. 

Working alongside Defence personnel, Australia’s defence industry and workforce is crucial to delivering this capability. 

This five-year contract will support around 120 existing jobs and create more than 150 new highly-skilled, long-term jobs at Anduril Australia. 

There are now more than 40 Australian companies working as part of the Ghost Shark supply chain, which are expected to add a further 600 jobs as a result of this investment.

Delivery of uncrewed undersea and surface vessels will provide Australia’s Defence Force an asymmetric capability advantage – a key priority outlined in the 2024 National Defence Strategy. 

Continued investment in this capability presents a unique opportunity for Australia to design, engineer, and manufacture sovereign uncrewed maritime warfare capabilities, with strong prospects for export opportunities. 

Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles: 

“The Ghost Shark is a world-leading platform made right here in Australia. 

“The Albanese Government’s investments in the Ghost Shark are fast-charging the development of long‑range, undersea autonomous vehicles for our Navy while also backing Australian businesses. 

“Over the next five years and beyond the Ghost Shark will equip Navy with the intelligence, surveillance and strike capabilities it needs in an increasingly complex strategic environment.”

Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy:

“This is a critical capability that the Albanese Government is delivering at pace – with all three prototypes delivered on budget and ahead of schedule.

“Our investment backs in 120 existing workers and creates more than 150 new high-skilled, local jobs.

“This reflects the Albanese Government’s unwavering commitment to supporting Australian innovation, backing Australian workers and building a defence future made in Australia.”

Today, the Albanese Government is launching a new online safety hub as part of our efforts to help protect young Australians travelling overseas.

The Partying Safely Hub, on the Smartraveller website, hosts resources to support parents and educators to have conversations about how to party safely while away from home, and what to do if something goes wrong. 

The Partying Safely Hub provides practical information for parents, universities and schools on key topics involving alcohol safety, methanol poisoning, drink spiking, drug safety and travel insurance.

Resources are available to download and include posters, factsheets and videos, developed with partners and subject matter experts including Red Frogs, CHOICE and Médecins sans Frontières.

Since March 2025, the Albanese Government has:

• provided targeted advice and alerts on alcohol-related risks to travellers through text messages and messaging at Australia’s international airports;
• partnered with industry, non-government organisations and youth media outlets to deliver messaging to young Australians through a range of channels;
• worked closely with universities to promote messaging to students in the lead up to key travelling periods; and
• dedicated communications on Smartraveller social media channels to raise methanol poisoning awareness.

Partying safely awareness activities will continue to increase ahead of schoolies in November.

The Partying Safely Hub is available at: Partying safely hub | Smartraveller

Foreign Minister Penny Wong:

“The tragic deaths of Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles as a result of methanol poisoning in Laos are a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers young people face when travelling abroad.

“We want young Australians to explore the world with confidence, but above all we want them to have the knowledge and resources to come home safely.”

Assistant Foreign Minister Matt Thistlethwaite:

“Travelling overseas is a rite of passage for many young Australians.

“This Hub is part of the Albanese Government’s work to help protect young Australians travelling overseas.”