Category: NSW News

The Minns Labor Government is taking biosecurity and pest animal management support on the road, delivering a series of workshops across the state’s south east through the Feral Pig and Pest Program 2025-26.

Between February and May, landholders can attend one of eight drop-in sessions throughout the Queanbeyan-Palerang region to speak with Local Land Services biosecurity and veterinary staff about feral pig control options, baiting techniques, livestock health, seasonal conditions and more.

Eligible landholders can also access subsidised grain to assist with baiting programs.

The workshops are a key part in equipping landholders with the skills and knowledge to manage pest animals on their properties, keeping livestock disease-free and getting the most out of their land.

The pest and biosecurity roadshow is part of the NSW Government’s more than $40 million investment over the past three years in initiatives aimed at supporting landholders to control feral pig and pest animal populations.

The roadshow will stop at:

• Carwoola – Friday 20 February, 3pm – 6pm, Carwoola Community Hall
• Mongarlowe / Charleys Forest – Tuesday 3 March, 9:30am – 1pm, Mongarlowe Community Hall
• Krawarree – Friday 20 March, 9am – 12pm, Gundillion Hall
• Burra – Thursday 26 March, 3pm – 6pm, Burra Community Hall
• Majors Creek– Tuesday 14 April, 1pm – 4pm, Majors Creek Recreation Hall
• Bungendore – Thursday 23 April, 10am – 1pm, Bungendore Scout Hall
• Royalla – Tuesday 28 April, 3pm – 6pm, Royalla Common
• Nerriga – Friday 15 May, 3pm – 6pm, Nerriga Hall

The drop-in format allows landholders to choose a time that suits them to discuss management options tailored to their property.

Bookings are recommended. Register online.

For more information, landholders can contact their nearest Local Land Services office on 1300 795 299.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“The NSW Government is committed to addressing biosecurity threats posed by pest animals such as feral pigs as part of the Government’s more than $billion biosecurity budget.

“The South East Local Land Services pest and biosecurity roadshow is a practical and convenient way we’re providing landholders with practical advice and support on managing feral pigs on their properties.

“These sessions can help landholders develop a holistic understanding of how to manage pest animals, from baiting techniques to how seasonal conditions impact populations.”

Applications are open for the NSW Government’s Youth Development Scholarship program, offering 1500 high school and tertiary students living in social housing $1000 grants to help cover their education expenses.  

Now in its tenth year, the program reflects the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to supporting the academic and career aspirations of young people living across public, community or Aboriginal housing.  

Since 2017, the Youth Development Scholarship program has invested more than $13 million to support over 5,700 students, easing the costs associated with education and helping young people to thrive in school, complete their studies and move confidently into the workforce.  

The grants are available to high school students in years 10 to 12, students at TAFE NSW or university, as well as those completing an apprenticeship or traineeship. 

This year, 1,500 scholarships are on offer and will be awarded to 1,000 new students and 500 returning students.  

To be eligible, applicants must be either:

• Receiving a private rental subsidy from the Department of Communities and Justice.
• Living in community housing/Aboriginal community housing 
• Living in housing provided by a Local Aboriginal Land Council 
• Living in supported, crisis or temporary accommodation 
• Living in statutory, supported, or voluntary out-of-home care.  

The $1000 grants can be used to fund study-related expenses such as laptops, textbooks, and internet access.  

The Minns Labor Government is building a fairer New South Wales where young people from all backgrounds have access to education and the resources they need to succeed. 

Applications for high school students will close at 5pm on Friday, 13 February 2026. 

Applications for tertiary students will close at 5pm on Friday, 6 March 2026.  

More information on how to apply can be found at: https://dcjnsw.info/scholarships  

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said:

“With the cost of living continuing to bite, back-to-school expenses are placing real pressure on family budgets across NSW, especially for families in social housing. 

“No young person should have to choose between buying a textbook and putting food on the table, or between the tools they need for an apprenticeship and paying the rent. 

“A $1,000 scholarship can be the difference between falling behind and getting ahead, helping students pay for textbooks, laptops, internet access and other essentials they need to succeed at school, TAFE or university. 

“This program is about fairness and opportunity, making sure young people in social housing have the support they need to stay engaged in education, reach their potential and build a better future.” 

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

“We already know that over the next ten years, around 92% of our jobs will require post-school training or study. Thanks to this program, 1,500 young people across the state will have the extra support they need to continue their education or apprenticeship, giving students a leg up while boosting a critical workforce for NSW.  

“For students learning at TAFE NSW or our universities, the cost of study can be a real barrier. These scholarships help cover essentials like laptops and equipment so young people can focus on building practical skills that lead directly to jobs. 

“TAFE NSW is a powerful pathway into secure work, and we want more young people to be able to access it. This support helps students stay enrolled, complete their training and take the next step into the workforce.” 

Youth Development Scholarship recipient, Caitlyn Laws said:

“Growing up in a single-parent household in a low socioeconomic area presented ongoing financial and social challenges that could have limited my educational opportunities.  

“The Homes Youth Development Scholarship provided essential academic, financial, and mentoring support throughout High School and my Bachelor of Nursing, enabling me to remain focused, engaged, and resilient in my studies.  

“This support played a pivotal role in my academic success and in fostering my commitment to pursuing higher education and professional achievement.” 

A new dedicated Biosecurity Compliance and Investigation Unit has been set up by the Minns Labor Government to strengthen biosecurity, tackle high-risk threats, and safeguard market access and trade.

The new unit, in the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Compliance Branch, will employ six full-time staff to focus on biosecurity issues threatening the State’s $25 billion primary industries sector.   

With more than 340 weed species and 40 pest animal species costing NSW at least $1.9 billion annually, the specialised unit will support and strengthen the work of all agencies responsible for biosecurity compliance and enforcement across the state.

The creation of the unit was a key recommendation of the Natural Resources Commission Invasive Species Management review and supports recommendations by the former Independent Biosecurity Commissioner.

The unit will

• respond to biosecurity risks and support on-ground surveillance activities across the state and at state borders for threats such as red imported fire ant and cattle tick.
• work with other agencies including Local Land Services and Local Control Authorities to expand compliance and enforcement capabilities for pest and weed management, including feral pigs and deer.
• undertake compliance operations to support the National eID program critical to maintaining access to the state’s domestic and international livestock markets.  

The dedicated Biosecurity Compliance and Investigation Unit follows the government’s release of the NSW Biosecurity Action Plan 2025-2026, which outlined six focus areas to improve the biosecurity framework in NSW.

This new unit will help deliver key commitments in the action plan, including the delivery of a new regulatory policy for biosecurity compliance in NSW, and regulatory guidance to ensure landholders, industry and community understand their biosecurity responsibilities.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, said: 

“This is about strengthening our biosecurity response and protecting our multi-billion-dollar primary industries export and international markets.

“This sends a clear message, if you breach biosecurity protocols and laws then there will be a price to pay.

“With this new specialised team, the NSW Government is taking strong action to protect our state from invasive species and other major biosecurity threats.

“We are strengthening our compliance and enforcement providing the resources needed to keep NSW safe and secure. Biosecurity is critical, and this team will ensure we stay ahead of the risks facing our communities, industries and environment.”

The Minns Labor Government has walked back its promise to deliver 30 additional beds at Blacktown Hospital in 2026.
 
Reading from a pre-prepared answer in Question Time yesterday, Health Minister Ryan Park revealed the new beds would now be delivered at the back end of this year “…or early next year.”
 
A Minns Labor Government media release dated 21 January 2026 said the additional beds at Blacktown Hospital were being fast tracked and would be delivered in 2026.
 
In the space of just 21 days the Minns Labor Government has walked back this promise.
 
Shadow Minister for Health, Sarah Mitchell, said the Premier needs to be honest with Western Sydney communities about when these extra beds will be delivered.
 
“The latest BHI data confirms what Western Sydney residents already knew – that they are being left behind when it comes to health services,” Mrs Mitchell said.
 
“After three years in government, Chris Minns has delivered none of the 600 additional hospital beds he promised for Western Sydney.”
 
Shadow Minister for Western Sydney Monica Tudehope said this is yet another reason why an urgent inquiry into the provision of health services in the Western Sydney Local Health District is needed
 
“Whether it is patients waiting for days in EDs, giving birth on couches, or being forced to sleep on the floor, an inquiry will help find answers and come up with solutions for the systemic issues Western Sydney hospitals are experiencing,” Ms Tudehope said.

The Minns Labor Government has unveiled a new net zero display home which is making sustainability accessible and showing households how they can save on their energy bills.

The display home delivered by the NSW Government’s property and land developer Landcom, in partnership with McDonald Jones Homes, can generate as much or more energy than an average household consumes.

Designed for everyday families, it’s estimated the net zero home could save the average household up to $1,700 a year in bills.

The Panorama Net Zero Home is part of Landcom’s sustainable 6 Star Green Star certified ‘Panorama’ development at North Wilton and will be open to the public from Saturday 14 February.

Visitors to the display home can get a practical, hands-on look at technologies, design and construction materials that can be used for new or existing homes.

These include:

• Renewable energy:  The home is fully electric, powered by rooftop solar and battery-ready technology, producing as much energy as it uses each year.
• Better living: Designed to feel comfortable all year round, the home has good insulation, airtight design and a mechanical heat recovery ventilation system to maximise energy efficiency alongside smart moisture control to prevent condensation.
• Climate-ready: The home is built to handle future climate conditions, with features like double glazed windows, weather resistive barriers and a roof with storm fasteners and that help it cope with heat, drought and major storms.
• Efficiency: The home is fitted with water efficient fittings, a recycled water irrigation system, an induction cooktop and energy efficient appliances to maximise efficiency.
• Reuse: To help reduce its impact on the planet, recycled materials were used wherever possible including in benchtops, tiling and tapware.

The home has been awarded some of the highest certifications in NSW including BASIX 100 Energy score, a Green Star Homes certification from the Green Building Council of Australia, and a leading 8.7 Star NatHERS rating.

For more information visit: https://www.landcom.com.au/about/sustainability/panorama-net-zero-demonstration-home/

Minister for Energy Penny Sharpe said:

“Making small energy efficient changes around your home can make a big difference in cutting your energy bills and emissions.

“This home shows you can be your own power station, lowering your energy bills at the same time.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“The Panorama net zero home demonstrates that sustainable house features aren’t just for premium high-end home builds. They can be delivered by the industry at scale and can help cut the cost of living by lowering water and energy bills with a potential saving of around $1,700 every year for homeowners.

“Increasingly people are interested in the choices that might be available to them to build and live more sustainably while reducing their bills. This display home will help to remove some of the mystery about available technologies and how they can be used in new and existing homes.

“I encourage both current and prospective homeowners to come check out the display home to get inspiration and advice for how they can make their existing or new build home more sustainable and cheaper to live in.”

Landcom CEO Alex Wendler said:

“At Panorama, we’re making homes happen and leading the way in delivering more sustainable, resilient and healthier homes.

“We’re demonstrating what’s possible with off-the-shelf technology and encourage the industry to make this the new normal in housing delivery.

“Landcom’s Panorama development is a fitting home for this innovation, where we’re unlocking up to 5,600 homes centred around sustainable living.”

McDonald Jones Homes CEO Rob Douglas said:

“Working on this project has provided our team with insights into what sustainable materials are available from across our supply chain.

“We plan to use this knowledge to explore opportunities that could be delivered at scale not only across our NSW business but nationally.

“McDonald Jones has found this project to be of great value for our business, and I encourage people interested in sustainable design practices to visit the home and see what is possible.”

The Minns Labor Government has delivered three new social homes in Shellharbour using Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), with another one on the way by April 2026.

The Shellharbour homes demonstrate how modular construction can dramatically reduce delivery times, with each home taking an average of 14-16 weeks from development approval to completion.

Modular construction allows houses to be built off-site while site works happen in parallel. This reduces weather delays and onsite inefficiencies, delivering homes up to 20% faster than traditional construction, without compromising on quality.

Three new homes are now ready for Shellharbour residents to move in, with a fourth on track for installation in April. Homes NSW worked with Australian manufacturer Moov Modular to deliver these safe, high-quality homes for those in need.

The Minns Labor Government is leading the way using MMC to take housing delivery to the next level, all backed by a record-breaking $6.6 billion investment in social housing.

Eight modular social homes were completed in 2025, including three in Wollongong and five in Lake Macquarie.

A total of 90 homes will be delivered using MMC across Greater Sydney and regional NSW by the end of this year, providing new homes for up to 200 people.

Minister for Housing Rose Jackson said:

“These Shellharbour homes show what’s possible when government builds smarter. Using modular construction, we’re delivering high-quality social homes in a matter of weeks, not years, getting people into safe, secure housing sooner. 

“Modern Methods of Construction doesn’t mean cutting corners, these homes are built to the same standards as traditional housing, with precision manufacturing, durability and comfort front of mind.

“These homes are part of a growing pipeline of modular housing across NSW, backed by record investment and a clear focus on delivery.” 

Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park said:

“Modern methods of construction are allowing us to take housing delivery to the next level and I’m thrilled to see the results of that investment here in Shellharbour.

“By moving the building process into a controlled factory environment, we’re getting more families into homes sooner. That’s the kind of innovation we need to tackle the housing crisis in the Illawarra.”

Member for Shellharbour Anna Watson said:

“I’m incredibly proud to see Shellharbour at the forefront of this housing revolution. These are high-quality, modern houses that will fit seamlessly into our community.

“For the residents moving in, it means a fresh start in a safe, secure home months earlier than traditional building methods would have allowed.”

The NSW Government’s Agriculture Economics research team is reporting that the state’s primary industries’ Gross Value of Production (GVP) has continued its strong recovery since the 2017–19 drought, reaching record levels in cropping and livestock.

Analysis of the latest data, from 2024–25 activities, confirms the sector has continued to bound upwards, with robust results across cropping, livestock and key sectors driving growth and jobs.

The Minns Government is continuing to help build-up and protect the state’s primary industries with $100 million invested in agricultural research and $1 billion in biosecurity systems and programs.

Over the last five years primary industries’ GVP rose from drought‑impacted levels to a new record level of $25.5 billion, an increase of $13.6 billion or 114%.

The data shows particularly strong results in cropping and livestock:

• Cropping GVP surged 33% to $11.6 billion, supported by above‑average yields and record pulse production across much of the state.
• Livestock GVP leaped 28% to $7.2 billion, driven by record meat production volumes and strong price conditions, including exceptionally high lamb prices.
• Farm cash incomes are estimated to have hit record highs with the average broadacre far cash income estimated to have reached a record high of $419k, up 24% from the previous record high in 2021-22.
• The forecasts for 2025-26 have farm cash incomes staying relatively high (above 5 and 10-year averages)
• Average NSW broadacre farm has seen its equity ratio increase from 84.5% in 2014 to 91.9% in the latest data.

These results reflect favourable seasonal conditions in the central, coastal and northern districts of NSW and sustained global demand for quality NSW agricultural products reaching $13 billion.

Farm balance sheets across NSW also remain in strong shape, positioning producers to confidently buffer future financial risks, including drought conditions.

Average broadacre farm capital reached $13.7 million in NSW underscoring the financial strength of regional agricultural enterprises.

Backed by record production levels, strong financial health and continued investment in drought preparedness, NSW farm businesses are well placed to respond to seasonal and market conditions.

For the full report, visit the NSW DPIRD Performance Data and Insights.  

Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said:

“These numbers show that NSW producers have not only recovered from the 2017–19 drought, they have persevered through the volatility of the environmental conditions and foreign trading surprises, and emerged stronger than ever.

“Record production levels, improved seasonal conditions and strategic business management and investment have all contributed to these outstanding results.

“Our Government has invested heavily in supporting, protecting and developing our primary industries so that there is a helping hand and shared knowledge on innovation and biosecurity so that farm businesses can use these recent strong seasons to build financial resilience.

“The Minns Government has delivered more than $100 million in new research, development and extension capabilities so we can work together with our farmers to modernise the sector and increase productivity.

“Having a strong Government agricultural research team analysing data enables our Government to monitor seasonal conditions and understand any impact on farm businesses and communities.

Thirty additional full-time equivalent tobacco inspectors will be recruited to boost the NSW Health’s newly established Centre for Regulation & Enforcement with additional funding from the Commonwealth Government.

The new Inspectors brings the dedicated state-wide team to a total of 78 staff.

Over half of the additional 30 have commenced or are about to commence, and the other half are in the process of being recruited.

The NSW and Commonwealth governments have previously discussed the impact of the high level of the federal tobacco excise which is driving many consumers towards cheaper illegal tobacco products.

Under the NSW Government’s tough new laws which have introduced closure order powers, NSW Health Inspectors, working together with NSW Police, are continuing to close down stores selling illicit tobacco and vaping goods.

The closure of five tobacconists in Sydney’s Inner West last week by NSW Health Inspectors and NSW Police brings the total to 66 stores closed since the laws came into effect in November 2025.

Between 1 January 2026 to 31 January 2026, NSW Health Inspectors have conducted 131 inspections, seizing around 560,000 cigarettes and 98kg of other illicit tobacco products and over 6000 illegal vaping goods with a combined estimated street value of around $830,000.

In January, NSW Health has also finalised 4 successful prosecutions with the courts imposing a total of $41,300 in fines related to e-cigarette and tobacco offences. There are currently 20 prosecutions before the Courts. 

The NSW Government is continuing to strengthen compliance and enforcement of tobacco and vaping goods laws across NSW, with the Public Health (Tobacco) Amendment (Landlord Offences) Bill 2025 currently before Parliament and expected to be debated in the coming weeks.

The legislation will build on recent reforms which target the illicit tobacco and illegal vaping market, including:

• a new offence for the possession of a commercial quantity of illicit tobacco with a maximum penalty of over $1.5 million and 7 years’ imprisonment, or both
• new penalties for the sale of illicit tobacco with a maximum penalty of over $1.5 million and 7 years’ imprisonment, or both
• the introduction of short-term (up to 90 days) and long-term (up to 12 months) closure orders for premises selling illicit tobacco, illegal vaping goods, or selling tobacco or non-tobacco smoking products without a licence
• new offences and penalties for anyone who breaches these closure orders, including for entering closed premises or selling products from closed premises
• new lease termination powers for landlords where a closure order is in place
• new nation-leading offences for falsely claiming to be licensed, resisting seizure, and attempting to retake seized products.

The NSW Government is also aware the sale of illicit tobacco and vaping products continues to evolve, with some retailers attempting to obscure and avoid the enforcement activities of NSW Health Inspectors, by using QR codes and social media communications to facilitate the ongoing sale of illicit tobacco to customers, after a closure order has been issued.  

NSW Police and NSW Health are working together to identify these methods and pivot their enforcement strategies to shut down this activity. 

Minister for Health Ryan Park: 

“I am very grateful for the additional support from the Commonwealth Government to assist in our tobacco enforcement efforts.

“It is an acknowledgement that the federal tobacco excise is out of step with the community and it is driving consumers towards cheaper illegal tobacco products.

“The assistance from the Commonwealth will help us get ahead of the prevalence of illegal tobacco over the next two years.

“But so long as the federal excise is where it is, we can continue to see illegal tobacco permeate throughout our high streets – and so I will continue to work constructively with our Commonwealth colleagues in establishing a more sustainable, long term and permanent funding stream for tobacco enforcement personnel.

“Our approach to illegal tobacco is more boots on the ground; tougher penalties; and more powers to close down bad actors.”

The Minns Labor Government today announced two of the state’s key animal welfare organisations, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) NSW and Animal Welfare League (AWL) NSW, will receive $12.8 million towards their enforcement and compliance activities to better protect cats, dogs, livestock and other animals across the state.

Over the past two financial years, the NSW Government has provided $25.3 million to these organisations to help them carry out animal welfare enforcement activities.

An additional $300,000 has been provided this financial year as part of the Minns Government’s continuing improvements to animal welfare standards across NSW.

The funds will support animal welfare inspectors who play a crucial role in enforcing the state’s animal welfare laws allowing them to investigate animal cruelty complaints, protect vulnerable animals from harm or distress and provide care and shelter for seized animals.

The NSW Government has introduced several measures to improve animal welfare including banning puppy farms, enhanced financial and performance reporting for the RSPCA NSW and AWL NSW, and reformed legislation to prevent people convicted of animal cruelty offences from keeping and breeding animals.  

The Government also recently announced proposed new offences for leaving dogs in hot vehicles, tougher animal fighting laws and banning the use of painful dog prong collars.

The changes made by the Minns Government to animal welfare laws represent the most comprehensive reform to the state’s animal welfare laws in years, recognising the need for modern legislation to align with community expectations.

The RSPCA and AWL funding applications were assessed in accordance with the requirements of the NSW Grants Administration Guide and recommended by an expert panel.

These grants support these organisations which carry out Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 enforcement and compliance activities for the current 2025-2026 financial year.

Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said:

“We recognise the importance of the compliance work the Animal Welfare League NSW and RSPCA NSW deliver and value the long-standing relationships we have with them to achieve better outcomes for animals.

“The welfare of animals is a key priority for the NSW Government, and this substantial funding directly supports the vital work of our animal welfare partners on the ground.

“We continue to work with stakeholders, advocates and the community to improve animal welfare and to build a better and stronger framework of animal protection. “

Animal Welfare League NSW chief executive officer Stephen Albin said:

“We welcome the funding announcement for our Inspectorate Services that are playing a critical role in protecting animals and enforcing the laws to prevent cruelty.

“The funding will support our expansion of services in both the Sydney metropolitan area and regional centres.

“Our inspectors have received an increase in the number of cruelty complaints, and this funding will also assist us meet that demand.

“Every animal deserves to find a loving home; this funding and other government initiatives are assisting our team on the ground deliver on this mission.”

The Minns Labor Government is backing safer choices on NSW roads, introducing a Bill to Parliament today to make the demerit point reward program permanent – part of a record $2.8 billion road safety investment.

Once passed, the reform will make the Demerit Point Reward Program a permanent feature of the state’s demerit point system, allowing eligible unrestricted licence holders to have one demerit point removed after remaining offence-free for a continuous 12-month period.

The reform builds on a successful trial delivered as an election commitment and reflects the Government’s clear view that lasting road safety comes from changing behaviour – not just punishing people after something has gone wrong.

Since the trial began in 2023, more than two million NSW demerits points have been removed, proving motorists can drive safely over time, with thousands more eligible drivers from the final year of the trial to have points returned later this year.

Legislating to make the program permanent is another example of the Minns Government backing commonsense on NSW roads and recognising the millions of motorists who choose safer, more responsible driving every day.

The reform is not a replacement for enforcement.

Penalties, fines, licence suspensions and police action remain firmly in place for dangerous and repeat offenders. This reform works alongside those measures by giving drivers a clear incentive to slow down, follow the rules and stick to safer habits.

Only unrestricted licence holders are eligible. Learner and provisional drivers remain excluded under the Graduated Licensing Scheme, reflecting their higher risk profile and lower demerit thresholds.

Drivers must also maintain an active licence and remain free of relevant offences for the full 12-month reduction period for a demerit point to be removed.

Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said:

“For too long, road safety has relied almost entirely on penalties and enforcement, and while those tools remain absolutely essential, on their own they don’t always change behaviour for the long term.

“We believe the best approach is a clear carrot and stick – strong penalties for dangerous behaviour, combined with a real incentive for drivers who do the right thing and stay offence-free.

“This reform reflects a fair, practical approach to road safety that works with drivers while still holding people accountable.

“Let’s not forget, road safety isn’t about choosing between enforcement or education – we need both.

“We’re investing a record $2.8 billion over four years in road safety – safer roads, better infrastructure, stronger enforcement and education – and we will rule nothing out when it comes to saving lives.

“Most drivers want to do the right thing. This program gives people who’ve made mistakes in the past a real reason to change their behaviour and keep doing better.

“If you break the rules, the penalties apply – fines, points and suspensions are still there.

“But if you slow down, follow the rules and drive safely over time, that effort is recognised, and we think that balance gives us the best chance of changing behaviour and saving lives.”