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Teals’ GST plan shows warped priorities

A Teal proposal to jack up the GST and apply it to fresh food and utilities, rather than increasing taxes on big corporations and the super wealthy, shows totally warped priorities, the Greens say.

“Kate Chaney’s plan to raise the GST to 15% and apply it to fresh food and utilities is a lazy idea,” Greens Economic Justice spokesperson Senator Nick McKim said.

“If we want to make people’s lives better we should make big corporations pay their fair share of tax and use the revenue to provide genuine cost of living relief.

“Since the pandemic the cost of essentials has skyrocketed, and the best idea the Teals can come up with is to make food more expensive?”

“If we are serious about easing cost of living pressures we should be making big corporations and the super wealthy pay their fair share of tax.”

“One in three of the biggest corporations pays no tax at all. The ultra-wealthy stash billions in trusts and tax shelters. But instead of ending those rorts, the Teals want to hike up taxes on baby formula and electricity.”

“The Greens will fight any attempt to make inequality worse. We’ll keep pushing for a fairer tax system where big corporations and the wealthy pay their fair share.

End of housing crisis is possible, only obstacle is Labor

The Australian Greens welcome ACOSS’s calls to urgently address the unfair tax breaks that benefit property investors, as well as their call for redirecting funds to building more social housing.”

Momentum is growing – ACOSS joins a chorus of stakeholders, including the ACTU and banks, calling on the government to wind back negative gearing and the capital gains tax discount ahead of the Government’s Economic Reform Roundtable.”

Under the Greens 2025 election policy, both negative gearing and the CGT discount would be grandfathered to one existing investment property and removed on all second and subsequent properties, ensuring “mum and dad” investors with a single investment property are not negatively impacted, while disincentivising future speculative and unproductive investment in the property market.”

Greens spokesperson for housing Senator Barbara Pocock:

“Every day these tax handouts keep flowing to wealthy property investors, the housing crisis gets worse. They’re cooking our housing system and fuelling intergenerational inequality. Ending the housing crisis is possible, but it’s up to Labor.”

“Momentum is growing – we’ve seen calls from across the sectors – unions, banks, economists, welfare groups – all urging the government to take action. It’s absolutely imperative that changes to negative gearing and CGT concessions are on the Economic Roundtable agenda. Winding back the tax discounts for wealthy property investors is the obvious first step in fixing our housing crisis.”

“Labor has a choice – it can help fix this housing crisis by reforming the tax discounts for wealthy property investors or it can choose to continue with a system that locks out first home buyers and increases rents. It could choose to redirect funds to build more public and community housing.”

“Let’s be clear – these are tax breaks for wealthy property investors, which come at a cost to first home buyers and owner-occupiers. These are tax breaks that increase levels of homelessness, which advocacy groups have said is the worst in living memory – increasing by 10 percent under this Government since it was elected in 2022.”

“Unless the Government makes the necessary reforms to the tax concessions for property investors, we’ll continue to see house prices rise and rents spiral. The Greens stand ready to work with Labor to action this urgent reform.”

Lines attributable to Greens Economic Justice Spokesperson Senator Nick McKim:

“Negative gearing and the CGT discount is a gift to wealthy investors that’s helped turn housing from a human right into a speculative asset.”

“They are some of the most destructive tax concessions in the country. They drive up prices, fuel inequality, and help to shut an entire generation out of home ownership.”

“Labor should listen to what the housing advocates, equality stakeholders and Greens have been saying for years, and bring reform to these unfair tax handouts for property investors into the parliament.”

Community invited to help shape future of harbourside landmark

Novocastrians are being asked to share their memories and put forward new ideas for the future of Queens Wharf.

The waterfront precinct has been a popular destination since it was constructed as a Bicentennial project and officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1988.

Thirty-seven years later City of Newcastle is looking to breathe new life into the harbourside landmark for the next generation of Novocastrians and visitors.

The Queens Wharf precinct includes two separate buildings, two car parks, a public promenade and the Transport for NSW owned ferry wharf.

The western building has been vacant since a fire in May 2020 rendered it unusable. City of Newcastle will lodge a development application later this month to prepare for its demolition.

The adjacent Queens Wharf Hotel will continue trading under its current lease.

Lord Mayor Dr Ross Kerridge encouraged community members to help guide the new vision for Queens Wharf by getting involved in the consultation, which officially opens today.

“For more than three decades this much-loved harbourside destination has served as the backdrop for countless memorable moments,” Cr Kerridge said.

“The transformation of Queens Wharf is a chance to create a place that will be a meaningful landmark of our city for current and future generations alike.

“We’ll be working closely with the community and local businesses to ensure it reflects shared priorities and responds to real needs.”

CEO Jeremy Bath said the community consultation and future demolition of the western building were critical steps in realising a new and vibrant future for the site.

“Queens Wharf is owned by City of Newcastle and this won’t change. Our vision is for this precinct to be the vibrant heart of Newcastle’s waterfront, connecting Stockton, Honeysuckle, Foreshore Park and Newcastle East,” Mr Bath said.

“The revitalisation of Queens Wharf is a complex undertaking that requires careful due diligence, consultation with the community and detailed technical studies to guide its progression.

“Site assessments for the western building have been underway throughout this year to prepare for the early works and approvals needed to support future redevelopment.”

Councillor Declan Clausen, Chair of City of Newcastle’s Asset Advisory Committee, said the Queens Wharf precinct is an important hub on Newcastle’s waterfront.

“We’re reimagining Queens Wharf to celebrate our local identity and establish a legacy for future generations,” Cr Clausen said.

“The revitalisation of Queens Wharf will continue the transformation of Newcastle’s historic East End into a thriving and dynamic destination for the region.”

Community members can have their say through a range of consultation activities, including an online survey seeking feedback on how City of Newcastle can turn Queens Wharf into a vibrant destination in the short and long term.

Face-to-face opportunities will also be provided for people to share their ideas for the site, with the first of four engagement stalls popping up at the Homegrown Markets at The Station this Saturday from 10am to 2pm. Future sessions will be held at Queens Wharf, Market Street Lawn and Stockton Foreshore.

For more information on how to get involved visit the Have Your Say page on City of Newcastle’s website before 3 September.

Minns Government delivers Broadmeadow rezoning

Broadmeadow is set to be transformed as the Minns Government finalises its state-led rezoning to deliver new homes, affordable housing and jobs across the precinct.

New planning controls will enable up to 3,200 homes to be built on government-owned land, including 5 to 10 per cent affordable housing, while supporting up to 2,350 new construction jobs.

The Hunter Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC) will be the delivery co-ordination agency and will support the transformation of the Broadmeadow precinct into a vibrant community with great services and access to entertainment and sporting facilities.

The rezoning will preserve significant heritage sites and deliver new public and green spaces, as well as new pedestrian and transport links to connect to surrounding areas, including Broadmeadow Train Station.

Rezoning of the first four government-owned sites within the Broadmeadow precinct marks the beginning of the most significant urban renewal project to be undertaken in Greater Newcastle and will occur progressively over the next 30 years.

The Broadmeadow Place Strategy approved earlier this year and jointly delivered by the NSW Government and the City of Newcastle, will guide new development in the precinct.

HCCDC will now prepare an infrastructure delivery plan for the rezoned land, in collaboration with the City of Newcastle and other relevant state government agencies.

For more information, view the Finalisation Report and other supporting documents on the NSW Planning Portal.

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said:

“This rezoning is a huge win for the Hunter and marks another important step towards making this major project a reality.

“People have been waiting a long time for clarity around this site. The community has been calling for certainty and that’s exactly what we’re delivering today.

“This project isn’t just about building homes; it will also create thousands of new jobs for our region – a clear sign that the Minns Labor Government is serious about backing the Hunter and setting it up for a strong future.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“Broadmeadow is about to enter an exciting new chapter. This rezoning will help deliver new homes, including much-needed affordable housing, and jobs right in the heart of Greater Newcastle.

“The NSW Government is working to provide new well-located homes for Broadmeadow, that will deliver new jobs and an economic boost in the Hunter region.

“Rezoning this land will create a new and vibrant community that is better connected to essential services and transport to support the City of Newcastle’s growing population.”

Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said:

“With new pedestrian links, green spaces, and better transport connections to places like Broadmeadow Station, this renewal will breathe new life into this area of Newcastle. Locals will be able to live, work and play in a community that’s vibrant, sustainable, and well-connected.

“This project will create thousands of jobs for our region, both during construction and over the long term, bringing new energy and opportunity to Broadmeadow. It’s about investing in our future and creating a thriving, connected community.”

Sydney roads roll out the red carpet as 90,000 runners hit the streets for annual City2Surf

Major route preparations are underway to safely deliver the world’s largest fun run this Sunday.

A sold-out field of 90,000 people are expected to power across Sydney’s streets on 10 August for the 55th annual City2Surf – a 14km fun run from the CBD to Bondi Beach.

The Minns Government is asking the public to prepare for road closures and detours, with strict parking restrictions to be enforced along the entire course.

The Government is also calling on motorists to prepare for significant delays across the Eastern Suburbs while roads are closed to keep runners safe.

Road closures will begin at 3:30am around Hyde Park’s starting line, with major closures rolling out from William St and New South Head Rd at 6am through to Bondi Beach. All roads will be sealed off by 7am.

From 1am Sunday, the entire 14km course will become a special event clearway – including Bondi Road, where hundreds of buses will shuttle participants throughout the day.

Roads won’t start reopening until 11:30am in the city and 1pm in the eastern suburbs, with full access restored by 4pm.

Motorists are being urged to avoid unnecessary travel through the eastern suburbs entirely.

The event runs from 7:35am, with the final runners crossing the finish line around 2pm.

Event organisers are strongly encouraging participants toward public transport, with extra metro, train, bus and light rail services running. Travel on all modes is included with race registration – participants just need to show their race bib or event t-shirt.

However, shuttle bus queues from Bondi Beach are expected to be extensive, with participants warned to be patient or consider enjoying local venues until crowds clear.

Major bus route diversions will be in place between the city and eastern suburbs throughout the day.

Special event clearways are strict no-parking zones that will be heavily enforced. Vehicles left in clearways will be towed with fees applying.

Visit the Transport for NSW website for more information about the transport planning and road closures.

Visit the Live Traffic NSW website for detailed road closure information.

Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“The City2Surf is one of Sydney’s most iconic events.

“While it’s a fantastic celebration of community, fitness and fun, it does bring major road closures and detours, and we are calling on everyone to plan ahead.

“We’re closing up to 14 kilometres of Sydney’s roads to keep 90,000 runners safe – it’s a massive operation and we’re asking for motorist’s patience.

“The clearways are strict no-parking zones for all vehicles and will be enforced. Make sure you check signs carefully on Saturday and especially if you leave your car overnight.

“We urge all City2Surf participants and volunteers to catch public transport because travel on all modes of public transport is included with event registration – just show your race bib or t-shirt to transport staff when boarding services.”

Minister for Tourism and Minister for Sport Stephen Kamper said:

“The City2Surf is a shining example of why Sydney is one of the world’s great destinations – 90,000 people from across the globe will experience our beautiful harbour city from the CBD all the way to iconic Bondi Beach.

“This event showcases Sydney at its absolute best, with participants running through some of our most spectacular locations while being cheered on by thousands of locals lining the streets.

“I encourage everyone to get out and cheer on the runners this Sunday – it’s a celebration of everything that makes Sydney the incredible destination it is.”

Minns Labor Government releases 10-year strategy to address homelessness

The Minns Labor Government is continuing work to build a better New South Wales, where homelessness is rare, brief and not repeated, with the release of the NSW Homelessness Strategy 2025-2035 today.

Led by Homes NSW, the whole-of-government 10-year strategy is the first of its kind in New South Wales and will shift states system to focus on early intervention, local coordination and long-term housing outcomes.

Developed in collaboration with homelessness and housing services, people with lived experiences of homelessness and Aboriginal organisations the Strategy outlines a coordinated approach to homelessness reform across government, the homelessness and housing sectors, local services and communities.

Key reforms in the first stage of implementation include:

replacing hotel and motel stays with more appropriate homelessness accommodation delivered with supports that are tailored to the person or family’s needs
developing local housing and homelessness collaboration networks in partnership with local homelessness services, housing providers, councils, to identify and address service gaps, reduce duplication and target resources where they will have the most impact
establishing a NSW Street Sleeping Registry to improve service coordination for people sleeping rough by ensuring people don’t have to keep retelling their story and better coordinating access to housing and support
developing new targeted responses for young people and Aboriginal people who face particular challenges in the service system
designing a system-wide Housing First approach for NSW with the homelessness and housing sector, so people can access stable housing as quickly as possible, with the supports they need
reducing exits from government services into homelessness, through new cross agency governance, referral pathways and better service system responses.

The NSW Government will continue to work with the sector as these reforms are developed and implemented.

This is the latest in the Minns Labor Government’s action to make the housing system in New South Wales fairer, which has so far seen:

a record $6.6 billion investment into social housing and homelessness through the Building Homes for NSW program
the delivery of over 1,700 homes over the past year, the largest increase in government-built public, community and affordable homes in over a decade
the upgrading of over 6000 social homes
the social housing waitlist reduced by an average of 8 months across New South Wales
modular housing being utilised for mass public housing for the first time in New South Wales, with over 90 modular public homes to be delivered over the next year.

For more information, please visit the NSW Homelessness Strategy 2025-2035 web page.

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson:

“We are formalising and embedding the Housing First approach as the official government policy to end homelessness in NSW. This approach ensures that people have stable housing first, backed in by the support they need to rebuild their lives.

“This strategy is a first for our state. It’s a game-changing, long-term approach to homelessness that shifts our focus from crisis management to prevention and support.

“You simply cannot take on a complicated challenge like homelessness without a strategy. Without a plan, your interventions are random and uncoordinated, and you can’t make or measure progress. We are changing that.

“The establishment of the NSW Street Sleeping Registry will revolutionise how we coordinate services for people experiencing homelessness. No one will have to tell their story repeatedly. We’ll connect them to housing and support faster and more effectively.”

Dom Rowe CEO of Homelessness NSW:

“The cost of living crisis our communities are facing sees more people living in their cars, couch surfing between friend’s places and worst of all sleeping rough on our streets.

“Our sector has been calling for a whole of government response to this crisis, that acknowledges a need to respond now but also sets a reform agenda for the future.

“This Homelessness Strategy answers that call and sets a path to a better future for people at risk of homelessness and the services that support them.”

Exhibitors chosen for Taste the Flavours of NSW at Fine Food Australia expo

The Minns Labor Government is helping specialist food and drink businesses from across NSW take centre stage at Fine Food Australia to be held in Sydney next month – showcasing their products the largest industry event of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

Following an expression of interest process, the NSW Government has provided subsidies of $4,500 each to 18 unique food and beverage manufacturers from Greater Sydney and Regional NSW, including producers of sauces, spirits, chocolates and spices, who will exhibit within the ‘Flavours of NSW’ zone at the tradeshow.

Around 25,000 trade visitors from over 50 countries will converge on the International Convention Centre (ICC) from 8 to 11 September, providing a prime opportunity for NSW businesses to connect with interstate and international buyers, secure distribution partnerships and explore export markets.

In 2023-24 NSW produced 45.6 billion revenue in the manufactured food and beverage industry, making it the largest manufacturing sector in NSW, comprising of 4,600 businesses.

Business support and trade experts from the NSW Government will be on hand to help the exhibitors showcase their products and facilitate connections with prospective buyers.

The NSW Government’s support for Fine Food Australia aligns with the local manufacturing mission of the NSW Industry Policy, while agrifood is a focus sector in the NSW Trade and Investment Strategy, providing significant export growth opportunities particularly in Southeast Asia.

For more information on Fine Food Australia visit the Investment NSW website.

The NSW businesses receiving subsidies to exhibit at Fine Food Australia 2025 are:

Alka Power Water: Producer of alkaline water sourced and bottled in NSW’s Southern Highlands
Aurum Mead: A Byron Bay producer of wines made from varietal honey and native ingredients
Chef Luca Ciano: Producer of sauces, pasta and salad dressings, based in Bondi
Chief Nutrition: Sydney-based producer of beef jerky, collagen bars and snacks
Choices Gluten-Free: Sydney-based producer of gluten-free baked goods, including breads and cakes
Dharawal Distilling Co: First Nations producer of native vodka and gins, based in the Illawarra
Duro Pasta: Based on the South Coast, Duro Pasta is made from 100% Australian durum wheat and produced using sustainable farming practices
Gather By: Northern Rivers based producer of Australian Manuka Honey and Manuka gummies
Healthyroo: Producer of protein powder blends, protein bars and shakes from Sydney’s Northern Beaches
Karu Distillery: Produces a diverse range of gins, rums and vodkas from its distillery in the Blue Mountains
Kreenuts: Family-owned business in Sydney, producing chocolate and cookie covered peanuts
Mindful Foods: Producer of organic and activated granolas, nuts and snacks, based in the Northern Rivers
Nimbus: Sydney-based producer of powdered oat and soy milk
Nunka. Hampers & Gifts: First Nations business in Penrith, producing native sauces, jams, compote and blends
Pacdon Park: Based in the Murray region and uses local ingredients to produce British foods including black pudding, scotch eggs and haggis
Rub-A-Dub: Sydney-based producer of seasonings, rubs and sauces
Spicevine: Sydney-based producer of gluten free vegan marinades, stir-fry pastes and sauces
The Honey Library & Meadery: Producer of alcoholic mead, creamed honey, chilli honey and raw liquid honey, based on the Central Coast.

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“Fine Food Australia is an incredible platform for our up-and-coming food and beverage manufacturers to showcase their unique products, connect with buyers, and pursue growth opportunities both domestically and internationally.

“The NSW Government has been involved in this annual tradeshow for over 20 years, helping to grow our world class food and beverage industry.

“From spirits to sauces, from jams to jerky, we’re delighted to support our exhibiting businesses and their exceptional products that are made right here in NSW.”

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:

“Regional NSW is the engine room of the state’s agrifood industry, home to thousands of food and beverage businesses, and many more jobs.

“Our producers lead the way in terms of innovation and ingenuity, with many utilising native ingredients and sustainable ingredients to bring their products to life.

“Protecting our food’s excellent reputation is critical to domestic consumption and international trade and that is a key driver for the Minns Government’s recent historic investment in biosecurity plus primary industries research and development.

“Fine Food Australia is one of the biggest trade events in the industry and is unrivalled when it comes to connecting with key players in the industry and I wish our producers all the best in promoting their goods.”

Chef Luca Ciano Director Luca Ciano said:

“Cooking has always been about family, tradition, and quality for me. Growing up in Italy, I learned the art of creating fresh pastas and sauces from my family, who instilled in me the values of using the freshest ingredients and time-honoured techniques.

“With the support of the NSW Government, I am excited to showcase our products at Fine Food Australia and connect with international distributors, retailers, and investors who value quality as much as I do.

“It presents a fantastic opportunity to introduce our products to new markets, grow our brand, and help us to share our passion for fresh, quality ingredients with the world.”

Mindful Foods Director Jordan Epstein said:

“Mindful Foods is thrilled to be exhibiting at Fine Food Australia to feature our wide range of Organic & Activated Granolas, Nuts, Snacks & herbal teas with an audience of B2B buyers across the health food, independent grocery and food service channels.

“Mindful Foods is actively exploring export opportunities into new markets, so Fine Food Australia will be a great platform to meet international buyers and share the special story behind each of our delicious products!”

$20 million upgrade to bust congestion at Port Macquarie Interchange

The Minns Labor Government is getting on with much-needed improvements to the Oxley Highway, with community consultation under way on vital traffic upgrades at ‘The Port Macquarie Donut’ interchange with the Pacific Highway.

The consultation forms part of the Government’s $20 million investment for the first stage of a major upgrade at the interchange to address traffic queuing, safety and congestion at this well-known pinch point.

The Minns Government recognises that Port Macquarie Hastings region is fast growing and needs infrastructure investment to help build this community. Around 30,000 vehicles using this section of the highway every day.

The $20 million investment covers the design and delivery of improvements to the Interchange.

Stage one of the preferred proposal outlined in the Review of Environmental Factors includes:

adding two westbound lanes between the roundabout and Billabong Drive
installing traffic lights on all roundabout legs
new line marking to streamline traffic flow.

Construction on stage one is expected to start in early 2027, with works expected to take around two years.

This project forms part of the Oxley Highway Future Growth Project and was accelerated due to the interchange operating above its designed traffic capacity, resulting in congestion during peak hours.

This project will improve safety and increase capacity to keep traffic flowing smoothly at the interchange.

The NSW Government previously completed short-term improvements at the intersection in late 2024 to relieve immediate pressure while long-term solutions were developed. Improvements included extending the approach lane to the roundabout from the northbound exit ramp.

Transport for NSW is inviting the community to have their say on the upgrade that will make the intersection safer and faster for all road users.

Community feedback is open now. To view the proposal and provide input, visit the Transport for NSW website.

Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“We’re getting on with the job of building safer and more efficient roads across regional NSW.

“This upgrade will cut queues, save time and improve safety at one of the most important intersections on the Mid North Coast.

“The local community has told us this intersection is a pain point and we’re acting with a smart, staged upgrade that will deliver results. So far, we’ve increased capacity on the Northbound ramps.

“We are inviting motorists to have their say on the proposed design, and all feedback will be considered before we take the next steps.”

Labor spokesperson for Port Macquarie Cameron Murphy said:

“Whether you’re heading to work, doing the school run, or driving through on holidays, everyone in Port Macquarie knows how frustrating this intersection can be. That’s why we’re focused on real, practical upgrades that will make it safer and more efficient.

“This is about listening to the community and acting. The consultation process is now open, and I strongly encourage everyone to get involved and have their say.

“Stage one will fix some of the worst choke points and set the foundation for even bigger improvements down the track. We’re serious about getting this right – and that starts with hearing directly from road users.”

Traffic switches pave the way for final stages of M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace construction

The Minns Labor Government is continuing its work to build more connected regional communities, with work powering ahead on the M1 to Raymond Terrace project between Black Hill and Tomago.

A series of traffic changes or ‘switches’ will take place over the next few months, paving the way for the final stages of the project.

The switches, which move traffic onto newly-constructed sections of road, allow construction teams to begin work in areas that are currently under traffic.

There are three significant traffic switches between August and September this year.

The first, which occurs at the beginning of August, will see traffic from the existing northbound lane of the Pacific Highway at Tomago move onto the new road and bridge opposite Tomago Road. This section of road forms part of the permanent on-ramp for the Tomago interchange.

Six to eight weeks later, southbound traffic will also be moved to the west, onto new pavement under a new bridge near Old Punt Road.

These changes open up a large work area on the existing Pacific Highway, allowing crews to power on with this transformational project.

Following on from this, at the southbound M1 Pacific Motorway, traffic from Beresfield will be moved onto a new section of the road, including a new bridge, to allow works on the Black Hill interchange to progress.

This will be shortly followed by another shift, where westbound traffic on the New England Highway will be diverted beneath a bridge currently under construction at Tarro, which will ultimately form part of the Tarro interchange.

The $2.1 billion M1 to Raymond Terrace project will remove up to 25,000 vehicles from the roads per day and cut travel times by 7 to 9 minutes in peak periods when the project opens in 2028.

More information on the M1 to Raymond Terrace project can be found on the Carportal website.

Jenny Aitchison, NSW Minister for Roads said:

“Major projects like this don’t happen overnight, but we’re seeing strong progress on this monumental project.

“These traffic switches are critical steps that allow crews to push ahead with new bridges, ramps and pavement, all designed to deliver a faster, safer and more reliable journey.

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to improving connectivity right across regional NSW, and this upgrade is a prime example of that vision in action.”

Yasmin Catley, Minister for the Hunter said:

“The Hunter deserves infrastructure that really reflects how strong our communities are and the huge potential of our region.

“This upgrade isn’t just about cutting down travel times – it’s also about creating jobs, making the roads safer and setting us up for the future.

“These latest changes show we’re heading in the right direction on a big project that’s going to benefit our region for years to come.”

Sonia Hornery, Member for Wallsend said:

“This project is a big win for local families and businesses who rely on this corridor every day.

“By removing one of the worst traffic choke points in the region, we’re improving travel times, making journeys safer and boosting connections across the Hunter.

“It’s great to see work powering ahead and delivering real benefits for our community.”

Tim Crakanthorp, Member for Newcastle said:

“This project is a game-changer for Newcastle, making it easier for locals, visitors and freight to get where they need to go safely and on time.

“The M1 to Raymond Terrace upgrade will take pressure off surrounding roads, support local businesses, and improve connections to the port.

“These latest traffic changes are an important milestone in delivering a modern, reliable transport network for our growing region.”

Kate Washington, Member for Port Stephens said:

“The people of Port Stephens are delighted to see this project powering ahead.

“This critical project sat in the slow lane for a decade until Labor formed Government and kicked it into gear.

“When it’s completed, it’ll make a huge difference to local lives – busting congestion and making travel safer.”

Meryl Swanson, Federal Member for Paterson said:

“This is an intergenerational project that will ease congestion, improve safety, and boost growth – and I’m proud to be part of an Albanese Labor government that’s delivering for our community.

“These traffic changes are a clear sign that the M1 Extension is becoming a reality. They’re making way for the major infrastructure our region has needed for decades.”

Opposition push spurs Minns Labor Government action on deepfake abuse

The NSW Opposition has welcomed the Minns Labor Government’s decision to act on sexually explicit deepfakes, after the Opposition introduced its own legislation to criminalise deepfake abuse and scheduled the second reading of its Private Member’s Bill in the Parliament today.

The Crimes Amendment (Deepfake Sexual Material) Bill 2025, put forward by the Opposition, aims to criminalise the production, sharing and threat to share AI-generated sexual content designed to humiliate or exploit a real person.

After the Opposition’s move announced last month, the Government has been spurred into action and now announced it will introduce legislation of its own, with similar objectives. The Opposition will work constructively to ensure strong protections are delivered quickly.

Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said deepfake abuse is a growing threat that demands swift action.

“This is not a grey area. If someone is creating or spreading sexually explicit deepfakes to degrade another person, they should face serious consequences,” Mr Speakman said.

“We flagged this last month and prepared a bill to deal with it. I’m pleased the Government is now taking steps in the same direction. This is about protecting people from being digitally violated.”

Shadow Attorney General Alister Henskens said the Opposition’s bill laid strong groundwork for tough, modern protections.
“No one should have their image or voice used against them like this. If it’s not your body, not your voice, it’s not someone else’s right to control,” Mr Henskens said.
“The Coalition’s bill set out a path forward and we’re encouraged that the Government is now backing this much-needed reform.”

“It’s a shame that this minority government doesn’t work with the opposition to try and address these important social issues. This is a fake Premier copying our deepfake legislation.”

Shadow Minister for Women Felicity Wilson said deepfake abuse is already damaging lives and the time for change is now.

“This isn’t a future problem. It’s happening now in classrooms, workplaces and on social media,” Ms Wilson said.

“Women and girls are being targeted by fake images that look terrifyingly real. We’ve put solutions on the table and we’ll work to ensure the final law is strong, clear and fast.”

The Opposition’s bill proposed a legal definition of deepfakes, new criminal offences, penalties for private and public sharing, and court powers to order takedowns and destruction of synthetic material.

The Opposition will continue to work in good faith to get these reforms right and ensure the law reflects the serious harm being caused.