Trial of powered vessel free zones wraps up in Port Stephens

Preliminary operational data and high-level feedback from the powered vessel free zones which ran from the 24 December to 26 January over the peak holiday period has shown the trial to largely be a success.

Executive Director Transport for NSW Maritime, Mark Hutchings said that early feedback reflects a broad cross-section of waterway users, including both residents and visitors.

“The trial operational data shows a high compliance rate with minimal complaints,” Mr Hutchings said.

“This was a practical way to test solutions in response to community concerns. We’ve heard consistent feedback about safety and amenity issues on our busy waterways and this trial is a direct response.

“A comprehensive and independent report is expected to be finalised by the end of March which will help us better understand the benefits and any issues with the trial. The report will be released publicly once reviewed.

“No future decisions will be made until that report is assessed as it will include results from feedback being gathered through on-site conversations with residents and visitors, along with observations during peak use periods, focus groups and interviews scheduled post-trial.”

The independent evaluation will assess both quantitative data and qualitative experience, not just sentiment alone. Over 400 residents and visitors, as well as 160 powered vessel users have been consulted.

Engagement is ongoing with more targeted surveys and focus groups occurring in February. Initial anecdotal sentiment shows that when asked whether they support or had concerns about the vessel free zone respondents replied:

  • Many stakeholders responded very positively to the trial.
  • Some called for a complete ban on jet skis while others thought it was fair for everyone.
  • There were mixed views about potential impacts on local businesses, some positives others unsure.
  • There was some confusion about what activities were restricted and what access remained permitted.

These inputs are from the Have Your Say website feedback which is one input only. Online survey results are one part of a broader evidence base.

During the trial all powered vessels had to stay at least 30m from the shoreline. Clear signage was installed at all trial sites and nearby launch points.

The trial was important as NSW jet ski ownership has climbed by nearly 23 per cent over the last five years and licenses have surged by 38 per cent with Port Stephens one of the high use areas.

Maritime Boating Safety Officers worked with NSW Police Marine Area Command on the water to educate the community about the trial and encourage compliance from powered vessel users.

More than 8,000 first home buyers get their start in the Hunter, Newcastle and Lake Macquarie

New data reveals that 8,280 first home buyers in the Hunter, Newcastle and Lake Macquarie have been given a helping hand by the Minns Labor Government, saving an average of $21,513 off the cost of their first home.

The program provides a full stamp duty exemption of $30,412 for first home buyers purchasing a property up to $800,000 and a concession for homes priced between $800,000 and $1 million.  

It replaces the previous Liberal-National Government’s forever tax on first-home buyers, which left first-home buyers paying an annual tax back to the Government.

Across the region, the top suburbs to benefit are Wallsend (641 first homes), Maitland (586), Cardiff (570) and Cessnock (520).

It includes 2,302 first home buyers in the Lake Macquarie LGA, 1,983 in Newcastle LGA, and 1,575 in Maitland LGA, 1,275 in Cessnock LGA and 613 in Port Stephens LGA.

Across NSW, 82,174 first home buyers have benefited from the First Home Buyers Assistance since July 2023.  Of those, 58,111 people paid no stamp duty at all, while 24,063 individuals paid a reduced amount.

The scheme also works with the Albanese Labor Government’s 5% Deposit and Shared Equity schemes, making it even easier for people and families to buy their first home.

Housing is the number one cost-of-living pressure on young people, families and downsizers.  

Helping first home buyers is a critical piece of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to address these cost-of-living pressures and make sure NSW can be an accessible and affordable place to live.

That’s why the Minns Labor Government is delivering more homes to rent and buy, re-building essential services that families rely on, and providing long overdue investment in critical infrastructure across the Hunter, Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.

The First Home Buyers Assistance Dashboard has more statistics by suburb and Local Government Area and can be accessed at https://www.revenue.nsw.gov.au/help-centre/resources-library/statistics/fhba-dashboard.

More information about First Home Buyers Assistance is available at https://www.revenue.nsw.gov.au/grants-schemes/assistance-scheme.

Acting Minister for the Hunter Paul Scully:

“The Hunter is quickly earning its reputation as one of the state’s most desirable places to live, work and build a future. This announcement is a clear reflection of that momentum.

“When we came into government, we made a clear commitment to help people access the basics including housing and we’re delivered on it.

“We’re proud to be delivering affordable housing across the Hunter, giving more people the chance to put down roots in a region full of opportunity, strong communities and a bright future.”

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey:

“For more than 80,000 people, this has meant paying less upfront and getting into a home sooner.

“We’re backing first home buyers because everyone deserves a fair shot at owning a home in NSW.

“As our landmark planning reforms deliver more homes, we will continue making it easier for first-time buyers to make them their own.”

Minister for Finance Courtney Houssos:

“This is a critical piece of the puzzle in the Government’s plan to help families plant their roots across the state.

“Saving up to $30,000 on stamp duty means more money in the pockets of families and more opportunities for them to achieve the dream of home ownership.”

A new age of airspace authority begins at Tindal

Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil, will today officially open the new MQ-4C Triton facilities at RAAF Base Tindal in the Northern Territory, marking a major milestone for the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and delivering a significant boost to Australia’s air and maritime surveillance capabilities.

Delivered under the $355.7 million Remotely Piloted Aircraft System Facilities Project, RAAF Base Tindal will serve as the home of the Royal Australian Air Force’s MQ-4C Triton aircraft.

The aircraft will be launched at Tindal and flown by Air Force pilots from a ground station at RAAF Base Edinburgh in South Australia. The remotely piloted aircraft system allows the Triton to operate at higher altitudes and remain airborne for longer periods than a traditional piloted aircraft, providing persistent surveillance across Australia’s maritime approaches. 

Designed by BVN and constructed by Sitzler Pty Ltd, the project commenced in May 2023 and includes a purpose-built hangar, working accommodation, upgraded airfield pavements and supporting infrastructure to enable sustained Triton operations.

The new facilities strengthen Defence’s Cooperative Program with the United States Navy and support the 2024 National Defence Strategy, which prioritises enhancing northern bases and investing in uncrewed systems to expand Australia’s intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities across the air and space domains.

Since 2022, the Albanese Government has invested over $2.8 billion in strengthening the ADF’s presence across Northern Australia, with 43 projects either completed or underway. Over $166 million in contracts for the Triton facilities project were awarded to Northern Territory businesses, including $7.5 million to Indigenous subcontractors, delivering a significant economic contribution to the region.

Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil:

“The completion of these facilities at Tindal is a critical step in strengthening our northern defence capability and is yet another example of our commitment to deliver the priorities outlined in the 2024 National Defence Strategy.”

“This suite of new infrastructure will enable the ADF to operate advanced uncrewed aircraft from Australia’s north, enhancing persistent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance along our maritime boarders and across the broader region.”

“The project also deepens Australia’s Cooperative Program with the US Navy, by ensuring our forces can operate seamlessly together in support of regional stability.”

“Investing in critical infrastructure and advanced capabilities across our northern bases is critical to ensuring Australia is ready to face whatever challenges arise in the future.”

Federal Member for Lingiari, Marion Scrymgour:

“This project has delivered real benefits for the Territory, supporting local businesses, creating jobs and building skills that will continue to benefit the region well into the future.

“Working closely with local industry and Indigenous contractors has been central to this project, ensuring the investment strengthens not only Defence capability but also the local economy.

“RAAF Base Tindal is a valued part of the local community, and these new facilities will support the men and women who live and work here as they carry out their vital role.”

Special Envoy for Defence, Veterans’ Affairs & Northern Australia, Luke Gosling:

“The completion of the MQ-4C Triton facilities at RAAF Base Tindal reflects the Northern Territory’s central role in Australia’s national security. It recognises the work of our Defence personnel, the importance of our northern bases, and the strength of our local Defence industry in keeping Australians safe.

“This investment gives the ADF a powerful new capability to see further, stay airborne longer and maintain constant situational awareness. It will significantly strengthen our maritime surveillance and ensure Australia is better prepared to respond to emerging security challenges across the Indo-Pacific.”

Huge jobs boost for Western Sydney with $500M investment from Albanese Government

More than 2,000 jobs will be created in Western Sydney following a $508 million investment from the Albanese Government in two major capital works projects that are critical to Australia’s national security.

The two projects – part of the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) plan – include the redevelopment of base facilities and the construction of new explosive ordnance storage at Orchard Hills.

Hansen Yuncken has been contracted to deliver upgrade works to Defence Establishment Orchard Hills, including for security and infrastructure and new training and working facilities at a value of $298 million, with expected construction completion in early 2029. This project is expected to create 600 direct employment opportunities for engineers, plant operators, and construction tradespeople.

ADCO Constructions will provide guided weapons and explosive ordnance storage buildings at a value of $210 million, with construction expected to be completed in late 2027, creating 300 direct jobs.

There are also indirect supply chain employment opportunities for 1,400 personnel in roles including steel and concrete production, material supply, fabrication, office fit-out, design, and logistics. The two projects are expected to contribute around $500 million directly into the NSW and Western Sydney economy by providing business for local subcontractors, suppliers, materials, labour and services.

The two separate contracts include Indigenous workforce, apprentice training and women in construction targets, as well as procurement commitments, designed to ensure significant economic benefits flow to the local community. 

The Orchard Hills base currently employs approximately 700 people, including contractors and Defence personnel. This work, part of the Government’s commitment of up to $21 billion under the GWEO plan, support the commitment in the 2024 National Defence Strategy to increasing Australia’s guided weapons and explosive ordnance capability. 

Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Pat Conroy MP:

“The Albanese Government is delivering a defence future made in Australia and creating thousands of well-paid jobs for locals with this major investment in infrastructure that is critical to our national security.

“This is part of the Albanese Government’s commitment to establish a sovereign missile manufacturing industry which will make Australia more self-reliant and ensure the ADF has what it needs to keep Australians safe.” 

Labor education underfunding driving teacher shortage

The Victorian Greens have expressed solidarity with teachers considering industrial action, saying the Allan Labor Government’s $2.4 billion cut to public schools has pushed educators to breaking point.

Victorian teachers are now the lowest paid in Australia, with many able to earn around $15,000 more simply by crossing the border to New South Wales – nearly $300 a week at a time when housing, groceries and everyday costs are soaring.

The bulk of the $2.4 billion of funding that Labor has delayed would have gone towards boosting school staff and increasing staff salaries. 

The Victorian Greens secured an inquiry into public school funding which will begin at the beginning of this year. 

Victorian Greens spokesperson for Education, Dr Tim Read: 

“If you want to know why over 300 teaching positions are vacant, you can ask Jacinta Allan’s Labor Government. It’s no wonder when all teachers have to do is cross the border to NSW to get an extra $15k a year, that’s a pretty enticing argument. 

“The problem will only get worse unless we increase teacher salaries to match their NSW counterparts. Inflation and cost of living are soaring and our teachers deserve better, instead they’re being locked into the lowest salaries in the country. 

“Labor likes to call Victoria the education state, but right now they’re funding schools to fail. We can do better by our teachers, and by our kids.”

ABS Data Confirms Labor’s Cost of Living Crisis is Worsening Putting Pressure on Interest Rates

The Consumer Price Index released by the Australian Bureau of Statistic today shows inflation surged over Christmas, confirming that under Labor the cost of living is getting worse, not better for Australian families.

The data shows inflation accelerated to 3.8 per cent in December, leaving Australian households paying more at exactly the wrong time of year.

After nearly four years of Labor, Australians are paying more for everything:

  • Insurance is up 39 per cent.
  • Energy up 38 per cent
  • Rents up 22 per cent
  • Health up 18 per cent
  • Education 17 per cent
  • Food is up 16 per cent

Housing and rents are now a key driver of inflation, and Labor’s housing and migration settings are worsening supply pressures and feeding the cost of living crisis.

For families facing back to school costs, this is a serious blow. 

Parents are paying more for uniforms, textbooks, lunches, transport, groceries and power, while mortgage repayments continue to bite.

Opposition Leader Sussan Ley said the figures confirmed what families are feeling every day.

“Families are doing everything they can, but under Labor the cost of living is getting worse, not better,” the Opposition Leader said.

“This is not abstract economics, it is the weekly shop, the power bill and the mortgage, and families are paying more because this government refuses to get its spending under control.

“Every extra dollar families are paying at the checkout or on their power bill is a reminder that Labor has lost control of the economy.

“Hardworking Australians expect their government to ease pressure, not add to it, but under Labor the cost of living crisis is deepening.”

Deputy Leader and Shadow Treasurer Ted O’Brien said the ABS data showed inflation was being driven by government policy.

“While the Treasurer is desperate to shift the blame, there is no doubt this Jimflation crisis is homegrown,  Mr O’Brien said.

“With inflation in services and non-tradables both accelerating, the blame lies squarely with the government.”

“Government spending is growing 13 times faster than the Coalition budgeted for and has reached its highest level outside recession in 40 years. 

“This government is competing with everyday Australians for goods and services, pushing up the price of everything.

“This renewed inflation will further erode real wages, increase income tax burdens and add pressure to interest rates.”

The December quarter trimmed mean inflation figure, the measure the Reserve Bank watches most closely, jumped to 3.4 per cent, well above the Reserve Bank’s most recent forecast.

The Reserve Bank has already made clear that rate cuts are off the table and today’s result raises the real risk of another interest rate increase when the Board meets on Tuesday.

The average mortgage holder is already paying around $21,000 a year more in interest than under the Coalition, and that burden could rise even further.

After nearly four years of Labor, Australians were promised relief but are being asked to brace for more pain.

When Labor spends, Australians pay.

City of Newcastle receives national recognition for leadership in equitable workplaces

City of Newcastle is one of only two councils in Australia to be recognised as an Inclusive Employer by the peak national body for diversity in the workplace.

It is the second time City of Newcastle has been included on Diversity Council Australia’s annual Inclusive Employer Index, joining more than 80 organisations nationwide that have been recognised for best-practice inclusion.

Chief Executive Officer Jeremy Bath said City of Newcastle is committed to embedding inclusion across its workforce and culture.

“This recognition is meaningful because it is based on feedback from our people,” Mr Bath said.

“Being one of only two local councils in Australia to receive Inclusive Employer status highlights the strength of our approach to building a workplace where everyone feels respected, supported and able to thrive.

“Achieving this for the second time reinforces our commitment to embedding inclusion in everyday practice.”

To be included on the list, organisations must exceed the National Index Benchmark in at least five out of the six following areas: awareness, engagement, inclusive organisational climate, inclusive leadership, inclusive team, and exclusion. The evidence-based assessment uses staff survey data and independent analysis.

Mr Bath said the recognition reflects City of Newcastle’s ongoing delivery of its Inclusion, Diversity and Equity (IDE) Strategy, which was launched in 2023 around the pillars of inclusive culture, inclusive leadership, and a diverse, representative workforce.

The strategy targets five priority areas: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander engagement, accessibility, culturally and linguistically diverse inclusion, gender equity, and LGBTIQ+ inclusion.

Key initiatives of the approach include inclusive leadership programs, tailored staff learning, diverse working groups, workplace adjustments, inclusive recruitment practices, accessibility support, and ongoing awareness campaigns.

Chair of the Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee, Cr Dr Elizabeth Adamczyk, said the recognition is testament to City of Newcastle’s leadership within the local government sector. 

“This acknowledgement recognises what can be achieved when inclusion, equity, and accessibility is embedded into both organisational strategy as well as everyday practice,” Cr Adamczyk said. 

“The work delivered under the City of Newcastle’s IDE Strategy takes an intersectional approach in recognising and supporting the diverse lived experiences and perspectives of each person in the workforce. 

“This recognition is a demonstration of City of Newcastle’s dedication to fostering a strong culture of inclusion and wellbeing for its employees, and in the community more broadly.” 

New strategy boosts NSW’s cyber readiness

Cyber security experts from across NSW Government have collaborated to deliver a new Cyber Security Strategy to better protect essential services and ensure NSW stays ahead of increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

With more people relying on digital government systems, stronger cyber security is essential to protect people and the services they rely on every day.

The 2026–2028 NSW Government Cyber Security Strategy will reinforce all-of-government coordination to protect against key risks, with a strengthened focus on securing critical infrastructure and third-party supply chains.

The strategy is designed to be responsive, with a two-year planning cycle that allows agencies to focus on today’s risks while adapting quickly as technology evolves, including through AI-enabled attacks and rapidly sophisticated global tactics.

The strategy will lift the public sector’s capacity to identity threats sooner and better coordinate response efforts through Cyber Security NSW, incorporating ID Support, ensuring NSW Government systems are better protected.

It reshapes how government protects and oversees its systems by establishing clearer roles and tighter coordination between government agencies and stronger central supports to deliver faster, more consistent and more resilient cyber defences across NSW.

The strategy also outlines a new assurance framework, strengthened audit responsibilities and faster, standardised reporting of cyber incidents, building on mandatory 24-hour reporting that commenced in August 2025.

With the ever-changing nature of the cyber security landscape, the NSW Government is committed to continuous progress to underpin trust and the digital services used by the community.

For more information, please visit: 2026–2028 NSW Government Cyber Security Strategy | Digital NSW

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Jihad Dib:

“Cyber threats are evolving faster and becoming more sophisticated, that’s why multiple government agencies have collaborated on this strategy, so NSW is more resilient and better placed to stay ahead.

“With more people relying on digital government services than ever before, protecting data and maintaining trust is essential.

“As cyber threats become more complex, ‘set and forget’ is not an option. This strategy allows us to adapt and respond to the ever-changing cyber risk landscape.”

Cyber Security NSW Executive Director, Marie Patane:

“This strategy is based on strengthening our approach to cyber resilience and draws on deep interagency collaboration to ensure we work together across government to protect systems and citizens’ information.

“In the past 12 months we have focused on collaborating closely with Chief Information Security Officers, which has made this strategy possible.

“With the strategy now in place, we have strengthened our foundations to meet the current risk environment and support ongoing security measures to meet whatever the future may hold.”

Details of State Funeral for Professor the Honourable Dame Marie Bashir AD CVO

A State Funeral for Professor the Honourable Dame Marie Bashir AD CVO will take place on Wednesday, 4 February 2026 at St James’ Church, King Street, Sydney at 10:30am.

Dame Marie Bashir served our state with distinction as the 37th Governor of New South Wales from March 2001 to October 2014 and was the first woman to be appointed to the role.

She bought immense dignity and compassion to the role.

She passed away in Sydney on 20 January 2026, aged 95, surrounded by family.

She was a distinguished psychiatrist and a long-standing advocate for mental health, education and social inclusion.

The people of New South Wales held Dame Marie in great respect and affection, reflecting the trust and goodwill she earned over a lifetime of service.

A large screen will be available in Martin Place for members of the public wishing to pay their respects and watch the State Funeral.

The service will also be available to watch online on the NSW Government website.

All details of the State Funeral can be found at: https://www.nsw.gov.au/mariebashir

$38.3 million investment to future-proof TAFE NSW skills training on the Central Coast

The Minns Labor Government is investing $38.3 million over four years to overhaul skills training on the Central Coast, delivering modern, industry-aligned facilities across TAFE NSW Gosford, Ourimbah and Wyong.

The investment will deliver industry standard training spaces that mirror real workplaces and prepare students for real jobs in the region’s fastest-growing industries.

TAFE NSW Gosford will receive a major upgrade with a new state-of-the-art simulated health hub for ageing, disability and nursing training, a dedicated Aboriginal Yarning Circle, and relocated student support services to improve access and engagement.

The Ourimbah campus will be transformed with new simulated hair and beauty salons, fitness and remedial massage facilities, upgraded horticulture training spaces, a refreshed library, enhanced student support services, and modern general-purpose learning spaces.

TAFE NSW Wyong will become a stronger trades powerhouse with new engineering, machining and fabrication facilities, building on existing electrotechnology, plumbing and automotive training, alongside new learning spaces and staff work areas.

These works will be delivered in consultation with TAFE NSW teaching delivery teams to ensure facilities are practical, fit for purpose and support high-quality, industry-aligned training.

Staged works will commence in early 2026, with benefits for local students and community to be delivered progressively.

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

“This is a big investment in skills that lead directly to jobs on the Central Coast.

“We’re bringing training together in modern hubs and making sure students are learning in facilities that reflect real workplaces and real employer needs.

“It means better training, stronger outcomes and more opportunities for people to build careers close to home.”

Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong, David Harris said:

“This investment is about backing local workers and local industry with the skills they need to grow.

“The new engineering, machining and fabrication facilities at TAFE NSW Wyong will strengthen our growing region’s trades pipeline and give people the chance to train for secure, well-paid jobs right here on the Central Coast.”

Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch said:

“This is a significant boost for health training in Gosford.

“A dedicated simulated health hub means students training in ageing, disability and nursing can develop hands-on, job-ready skills locally, supporting both our workforce and our community.

This is about transforming TAFE NSW to deliver the best vocational outcomes for our Coasties.”

Member for The Entrance David Mehan said:

“Ourimbah is a key training campus for the Central Coast, and this investment takes it to the next level.

“Upgraded hair and beauty, fitness and remedial massage facilities, improved horticulture spaces and better student services will make a real difference to students and their learning experience.”