Category: NSW News

A new $3.8 million swimming spot is on the way for the Bay Run with a development application lodged and the NSW Government and Inner West Council finalising a funding agreement and signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The MoU outlines how both levels of government will work together to develop the Callan Park Tidal Baths which are expected to make a splash, at the Iron Cove foreshore.

The Minns Labor Government has committed $2 million to help deliver the project, which was first identified in the Parramatta River Masterplan, prepared by the Parramatta River Catchment Group in 2018.

The new swim spot set to offer a spot for a dip along the Bay Run will also benefit users of nearby parks and sports fields such as Leichhardt Oval and King George Park. This location will make sure the investment can be enjoyed by the Inner West community and beyond, including swimmers, pedestrians, joggers, cyclists and families.

Designs for the tidal baths include an accessible pathway and ramp, a generous fixed jetty, pontoon and shark net.

Following approval construction is expected to take six months, allowing the Baths to be open for the summer in 2026.

Greater Sydney Parklands is preparing a Callan Park Foreshore Master Plan to support integration of the swim site with the waterfront areas of Callan Park which will be shared for community consultation in the coming months.

For more information on the Callan Park Tidal baths visit the Inner West Council website.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“We made a commitment to deliver a swim site in Sydney’s Inner West and this MoU plunges us to the next stage of the project.

“The iconic Bay Run and surrounding parklands are already a community hub for family fun, sport, relaxation and exercise, so adding a swim spot where people can cool off in summer will be the perfect addition to an already thriving public space.

“This $2 million commitment is in addition to the $4.8 million the Minns Labor Government committed in the Budget to demolishing derelict buildings and return 1.6 hectares of parkland.”

Member for Summer Hill Jo Haylen said:

“This is great news for the Inner West because we’re closer than ever to having a free spot to take a dip in, to take the edge off summer heat without having to travel out of our local neighbourhood.

“We look forward to working with Inner West Council to develop this project so we can enhance this Callan Park for the enjoyment of the whole community.”

Inner West Council Mayor Darcy Byrne said:

“The Callan Park Tidal Baths will be a spectacular addition to the Bay Run which is already one of the best used recreation facilities in Sydney.

“This swim site in the next step in incredible rehabilitation of the Parramatta River and will attract swimmers’ and families from all over the Inner West to take a dip in Callan Park.”

Greater Sydney Parklands Chief Executive, Joshua French said:

“Callan Park holds a special place in the hearts of the community who want to see the park reach its full potential.

“The Callan Park swim site will continue our foreshore improvement program and will be a place for families and visitors to enjoy the waterside location and relax on the beautiful foreshore.”

Lismore’s long-term recovery from the devastating floods of early 2022 has taken an important step forward, with a contract awarded to a joint venture between CMC Group and JF Hull Holdings for the region’s largest road restoration package.

The major construction contract will enable critical repairs to restore roads from more than 60 landslips, improving reliability and reconnecting towns.

This marks a key milestone in restoring essential transport links across the Lismore region, with more than 50 road and transport infrastructure projects already completed, and almost 140 other projects currently in progress or under development.

Some projects have experienced delays or faced further damage due to the severe weather brought by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March 2025.

Work will be staggered over three years to reduce impacts on local communities and make full use of a locally based workforce from the Lismore local government area.

Jointly funded by the Commonwealth and NSW Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), the permanent repairs are now underway, with the reconstruction projects giving communities confidence in the safety, reliability, and resilience of their roads for decades to come.

Additionally, close to $17 million in new funding is being provided to Lismore City Council to help restore its road infrastructure and make it more resilient against future flooding.

Through the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package (RRTRP) and Essential Public Asset Reconstruction funding under the DRFA, several causeways across the region will be replaced to withstand future floods and improve road resilience.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain:

“This contract is an important step in Lismore’s recovery journey, delivering critical repairs that the community has been waiting for since the 2022 floods.

“By investing in resilience, we are not just fixing what is broken – but we’re building back better to protect local residents from future flood events.

“The focus on local workforce and staged construction outlines the commitment from the Australian and New South Wales Governments to support the Lismore region’s economic and overall recovery whilst minimising disruption to residents.

“I would like to commend everyone that has been affected by the devastating natural disasters that have impacted the Lismore community for their strength, resilience and commitment to supporting each other in getting through difficult times.”

Minister for Recovery and North Coast and State Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin:

“The Lismore region is getting its old mojo back, as we step up our rebuild with some great new developments.

“Our mission as we build back and emerge from recovery is to be improving the resilience of our infrastructure as we go.

“This announcement means we can invest in our roads so that they are better able to withstand the weather events of the future.”

Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison:

“The Minns Labor Government has quadrupled disaster recovery funding, from $190 million a year under the previous government, to an average of more than $800 million a year.

“We know landslips across the Lismore local government area had a massive impact on residents immediately after the flood and this contract to repair a further 60 landslips will keep up the momentum for action.

“Our objective has been to speed up support to councils dealing with disaster damaged roads.

“Together with the Albanese Labor Government, the vital $2.2 million investment under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements is rebuilding and reconnecting the Lismore community.”

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg:

“We’ve come a long way already and there’s still more work to do. These projects will reconnect villages and support our local economy.

“Lismore is not just rebuilding – we are rising.”

Access to holistic diabetes care is set to improve for Lower Mid North Coast communities with the new Diabetes Alliance Program Plus (DAP+) Medibus visiting Forster and Taree this week.

The custom-built Medibus is a fully equipped mobile health clinic which brings a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including an endocrinologist, diabetes educator, Aboriginal health worker, and podiatrist.

The clinical team will support patients directly and up-skill local general practitioners (GPs), nurses, and allied health professionals to provide gold-standard diabetes care within the primary care sector.

Diabetes remains one of the most critical health challenges for the Hunter and New England region, with an estimated one in eight people living with the condition, and many more undiagnosed.

If left unmanaged, diabetes can result in serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness, amputations, and premature death.

Diabetes disproportionately impacts those living in low socio-economic communities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, who are three times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.

The service is fully booked for this visit, however the Medibus will return to the Lower Mid North Coast in November. Access to the Medibus is via your GP or a local healthcare provider.

The Medibus is an initiative of the Diabetes Alliance Program Plus (DAP+), first established in 2015 by Hunter New England Local Health District and the Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network.

In 2023, a five-year, $12.4 million donation from the Colonial Foundation enabled the program to expand. This included welcoming new partners, including the Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, to lead innovative research and evaluate the program’s impact on patient outcomes and the broader health system.

Further information can be found on the dapplus.org website.

Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park:

“The DAP+ MediBus is exactly the kind of healthcare innovation our regional communities need.

“By bringing specialist diabetes care close to people’s home we are ensuring everyone, regardless of where they live, can access the support and care they need to manage diabetes.

“Everyone deserves equitable access to expert, evidence-based health care. This initiative is delivering tailored, best practice diabetes management directly to regional communities and I’m proud to see the mobile clinic visiting Forster and Taree locals this week.”

Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley:

“When we announced the Medibus rollout across the Hunter earlier this year, I was excited to see lifesaving healthcare travelling to people who might otherwise struggle to access the support they need.

“Our goal is to make it easier for people to get the care they need without the stress or burden of travelling long distances, especially in regional and rural areas.

“Diabetes can lead to serious complications, so we’re making it easier for people to seek help early. We’re looking forward to seeing the Medibus reach even more communities across the Hunter later this year.”

Labor spokesperson for Myall Lakes, Emily Suvaal:

“I’m very happy to see the Medibus visiting our area and bringing expert, evidence-based diabetes care to those who need it most.

“Diabetes is a significant health challenge for many people in our region, and timely access to care is vital.”

Hunter New England Local Health District, DAP+ Implementation Manager, Morag Joseph:

“Our aim is to increase awareness of diabetes and work alongside local health professionals in Forster and Taree, so that patients can receive the best possible care, now and into the future.”

Remarkable, an initiative of the Cerebral Palsy Alliance aimed at empowering Disability Tech innovators, is just one of 13 organisations the Minns Labor Government will support as part of the latest round of the Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program.

$400,000 in funding will go towards delivering a range of innovation-themed events and initiatives over the coming months including pitch nights, hackathons, and tech summits, as well as projects that have the potential to lead to the creation of new businesses and attract investment in target areas.

The first of these initiatives will take place tonight with a UNSW Founders Pitch night in Southwest Sydney.

Other initiatives will follow all over the state, with a report and forum zeroing-in on the gender funding gap hosted at Tech Central, a medtech and health innovation workshop in Wagga Wagga, and the Remarkable Disability Tech Summit 2025 at Sydney Town Hall.

The Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program boosts collaboration and partnerships across the innovation ecosystem, delivering a key action in the Innovation Blueprint 2035, with the latest funding round delivering a diverse mix of activities across Sydney and regional NSW.

Applications opened earlier this year, with a record number received.

In line with the Minns Labor Government’s strategic, whole-of-government approach to its Industry and Innovation policy frameworks, the Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program supported initiatives that aligned with the Innovation Blueprint 2035, along with the Housing, Net Zero and Local Manufacturing priorities of the NSW Industry Policy.

This consistent strategic vision demonstrates how the Minns Labor Government is committed to building a better NSW with a thriving innovation ecosystem, so businesses can create more economic and social opportunities for our people and help tackle the state’s most important challenges. 

For more information on the Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program visit the Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program web page. 

Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“Innovation in tech, housing, and manufacturing is one of the top priorities of the Minns Labor Government.

“Collaboration is key to delivering a more prosperous innovation ecosystem, and through the Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program, we’re ensuring entrepreneurs and startups at various stages of growth can connect, learn, and develop.

“Our strongest assets are our people, and it’s through collaborative initiatives where ideas flourish, and connections and partnerships are made.

“This is another step the Minns Labor Government is taking to bring our Innovation Blueprint to life which is helping to cement NSW as the innovation powerhouse of the nation.”

Remarkable (Cerebral Palsy Alliance) Founder Pete Horsley said:

“The Remarkable Disability Tech Summit 2025 represents a pivotal moment where we can lead the world in ensuring AI and emerging technologies are designed inclusively from the ground up.

“With over 1 billion people globally needing assistive technology and less than 10% having access to what they need, we’re not just talking about closing gaps – we’re talking about unlocking a US$1.9 trillion opportunity for innovation and economic growth.

“Remarkable is part of the Cerebral Palsy Alliance and with Investment NSW’s support through the Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program, we’re bringing together the global tech leaders, researchers, and decision-makers to actively re-wire the future of disability tech.”

UNSW Founders Program Manager Julie Pham said:

“We are grateful for the support provided by the Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program.

“This funding enables us to expand Pitch Night South West supporting diverse, early-stage founders in one of the state’s most dynamic growth regions – and deliver the MedTech Innovation Workshop in Wagga Wagga to help regional innovators translate ideas into real-world health solutions.

“Investment NSW’s commitment to backing diverse and regionally focused innovation is instrumental in strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem across NSW.”

Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program – Round 3 Recipients

Netball NSW is celebrating the selection of four of its brightest young stars in the Australian 21/U Team to contest the 2025 Netball World Youth Cup, announced today by Netball Australia.

Named in the 12-strong national team are Frederika Schneideman (NSW Swifts Training Partner), Hope White (GIANTS Netball), and Grace Whyte (NSW Swifts), who will all make their debut wearing the green and gold for Australia, along with reserve Monika ‘Otai (GIANTS Netball).

Netball NSW General Manager of Performance and Pathways, Mardi Aplin, said the selection was a proud moment for the state.

“To have four athletes in this team – each with such unique journeys – is a credit to their hard work and to the strength of our pathway. We’re thrilled to see them take on the world stage and know they’ll inspire the next generation back home.”

Frederika “Freddie” Schneideman – GD/GK
A Randwick junior, Schneideman rose through the Netball NSW Pathway and QBE Swifts Academy, starring for ERNA Hawks in Premier League. She was named MVP at the 2024 19/U National Netball Championships, which NSW won, and gained her first Suncorp Super Netball experience in 2025 as a Temporary Replacement Player for the Swifts.

“She is a formidable defence who reads the game perfectly. After an amazing performance in 2024 at the National Netball tournament she was awarded player of the tournament and has always been nationally identified as an underage athlete,” said Aplin.

Hope White – WA/C
Originally from Maitland, White developed her game playing at Newcastle Netball Association. She is a GIANTS Academy product whose sharp playmaking earned her a spot as a permanent replacement player in 2025. She was named MVP of the 2024 19/U National Championships Grand Final at only 17 and has impressed at both state and Super Netball level with her dynamic attacking game.

“This year she was elevated into a full-time contract with the Giants. She’s a really strong and dynamic mid-court wing attack and her vision into the circle is next-level. The commitment, dedication and endless hours driving to Sydney for training has been rewarded with this selection,” Aplin said.

Grace Whyte – GA/WA
Hailing from Tumut in the Riverina, Whyte’s talent was first spotted at a 17/U regional trial in Wagga Wagga. A dual basketball and netball representative for NSW as a teenager, she joined the QBE Swifts Academy in 2022, debuting for the Swifts in 2024, to then be selected as the 11th player the following year and becoming a regular during the season. Her rise has been marked by flair, athleticism and a competitive edge that saw her win multiple national tournament MVP awards.

“I saw Grace out at a regional trial for 17U state team in Wagga Wagga,” recalls Aplin. “She was this really amazing athlete with lots of flair.

Monika ‘Otai – GS/GA (Reserve)
A Tongan heritage shooter and GIANTS Academy graduate, ‘Otai is regarded as one of Australian netball’s most exciting young prospects. After starring in 2024 as a first-time training partner, she toured Fiji with the Australian 21/U squad in preparation for the World Youth Cup.

“Monika is an amazing athlete that is strong under the post and her movement and long range shot sets her apart from others. A St George District junior, she has been captain of multiple teams, and made her debut for Giants this year,” Aplin said.

Australia will head to Gibraltar in September aiming to reclaim the world title in a tournament featuring 20 nations over ten days. The 2025 Netball World Youth Cup will run from Friday 19 to Sunday 28 September 2025.

Passengers using the new metro line into Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport will have the smoothest of transits, with extra-wide platforms and a range of luggage-friendly features to make it a first-class public transport experience.

The first look inside Airport Terminal Station reveals the widest platforms on the entire Sydney Metro network – twice the width of the platforms at Gadigal Station in the Sydney CBD.

At ten metres wide, the large platforms are among design features to facilitate the high-volume movement of travellers with luggage in and out of the city’s newest airport.

Airport Terminal Station will also have larger lifts and wider ticket gates to smooth the connection.

The new 23-kilometre Metro line, jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments, will move up to 7,740 passengers every hour in each direction.

The six-stop line will connect Western Sydney International Airport to St Marys in just 15 minutes where passengers can join services on the T1 Western Line that run direct to stations including Blacktown, Parramatta, Strathfield and Central Station.

A 60-tonne crane is being used to lower precast concrete segments 25 metres below ground to the station floor, with segments then pieced together side-by-side and secured in place with bolts and concrete to create the platform.

The high-precision work will take about 25 days to complete, with work starting next at Airport Business Park and Orchard Hills stations. Bradfield Station is the first station box where the platform installation work is complete.

Construction progress on Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport comes amid a rush of milestones in recent weeks across the Sydenham to Bankstown metro conversion and Sydney Metro West mega-projects. These include:

• 80 per cent completion at Bankstown, with platforms and screens in place
• The breakthrough of two tunnel boring machines into Pyrmont on their way to Hunter Street
• Breakthroughs at Parramatta as those TBMs head to Westmead
• 90 per cent completion of all tunnelling on Sydney Metro West

The $10.5 billion Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments, each contributing $5.25 billion.

Premier of NSW Chris Minns: 

“Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport is taking shape, and it will be a welcome addition to what will be a thriving new city around the Western Sydney Aerotropolis.

“Having the right transport infrastructure in place for this new airport will connect people with jobs, leisure, and enable businesses to thrive.

“We’re investing in infrastructure like Metro to ensure essential services are up and running when this brand-new city comes to life.”

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

“Western Sydney International will be Australia’s most technologically advanced airport, so it’s apt that it will be served by a fast, frequent and high-tech driverless Metro.

“This milestone is an exciting step toward delivering the new metro connection that will serve as a key gateway for airport passengers, workers and residents across Greater Western Sydney.

“Sydney’s new airport has been talked about for decades, and soon it will be a reality. Sydney’s new airport will have room to expand as demand for flights grows over the coming decades. This metro will play an important role in linking growing suburbs to their new airport.

NSW Minister for Transport John Graham:

“The Airport Terminal Station will be among the busiest on the line and play a major role in the success of our city’s new international airport. We are making sure that every design feature is tailored to a smooth journey from air to rail.

“Bradfield and the airport precinct will grow rapidly around this world-class infrastructure, providing the employment growth close to home that the millions of people in Western Sydney deserve.”

“I want to thank the 3000 workers currently on site across this project.”

Federal Member for Werriwa Anne Stanley:

“The Albanese and Minns Governments are delivering incredible investments in roads and rail across our region, that will change the way workers and passengers can travel to the Airport and surrounds.

“It’s an exciting time for south west Sydney, as we look forward to a new airport and a fantastic new metro service.

state Member for Leppington Nathan Hagarty:

“Western Sydney International Airport and Bradfield City Centre will reshape our region — bringing new jobs, new industries, and new opportunities closer to home. It’s great to see the metro line that will connect it all coming to life.

“As one of the fastest-growing parts of the state, Greater Western Sydney deserves world-class infrastructure that supports local jobs, new housing and better connections for our communities.”

A Recovery Assistance Point (RAP) will open in Gunnedah this week to support communities in the storm-impacted New England following the recent severe weather including heavy rainfall.

The Gunnedah RAP will open from Thursday to Saturday offering face to face support to impacted residents, businesses and primary producers including:

• help with replacing ID and personal documents such as birth and marriage certificates, Medicare card, vehicle and vessel registrations and licences, and citizenship documents
• legal assistance
• insurance support and guidance on claims, policy coverage, and clean-up
• mental health support as recovering from a natural disaster can take a toll on mental and physical health.

Recovery Assistance Point location:

• Gunnedah, Salvation Army Hall, 30 Tempest Street, Gunnedah
  • Thursday 14 August, 2pm – 6pm; Friday 15 August, 11am – 4:30pm; Saturday 16 August, 10am – 2pm.

RA staff remain on the ground with the SES assessing impacts in key locations like Gunnedah, Narrabri, Tamworth, Uralla and Walcha as recovery operations ramp up.

The Minns Labor Government is working hard to make sure support is available to help individuals, land holders and communities get back on their feet.

Information about recovery support is updated daily at nsw.gov.au/stormrecoveryupdates

NSW Minister for Recovery and Small Business Janelle Saffin:

“People are doing it tough in the New England, but I want them to know that the Government is here every step of the way through recovery. 

“That’s what Recovery Assistance Points are here for, so communities can access the support and services they need to start getting back on their feet.

“We are also working closely with and support Councils too to repair the infrastructure communities need to stay connected to services and each other.” 

NSW Reconstruction Authority CEO Mal Lanyon said:

“We’re standing up the Gunnedah Recovery Assistance Point to ensure communities have access to the support they need.

“This is a coordinated effort across local, state and federal agencies, working together to provide a one stop shop for people and businesses impacted by recent severe weather and snow.

“Information and access for support is currently available at nsw.gov.au/stormrecoveryupdates.”

Regional motorists are being urged to obey the rules and stay safe around level crossings, after joint enforcement in regional areas resulted in 80 driver fines for ignoring signals about approaching trains and for speeding.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to lowering road fatalities toward zero, and part of that includes making level crossing safer for everyone.

It is investing $7.3 million a year through the Level Crossing Improvement Program to accelerate upgrades of priority public level crossings and through level crossing safety education and enforcement campaigns.

The safety message comes as Rail Safety Week begins, a reminder to be safe on and around the rail network. Rail Safety Week will be marked across NSW with events focused on Werris Creek and is strongly supported by the Minns Labor Government.

During a recent ten-day Level Crossing Awareness and Enforcement campaign in the Liverpool Plains area, NSW Police detected 55 offences at level crossings in Nea, Curlewis, Caroona and Gunnedah including 26 level crossing offences and 26 speeding offences.

Police penalized a further 35 motorists at four level crossings in the Riverina around Junee and Marrar, detecting 26 level crossing offences and six speeding offences.

There were five collisions between trains and road vehicles at level crossings in NSW last financial year including the single fatal collision at the Twigg Road Yenda level crossing last September. There were also 74 near hits between trains and road vehicles at level crossings in NSW.

Across in the past 10 years there have been 69 collisions between trains and vehicles at NSW’s 1,307 public road level crossings, resulting in 9 deaths and 9 serious injuries. Some 64 of those crashes occurred in regional NSW.

Every year, the NSW Police Force and Transport for NSW run localised awareness and enforcement campaigns to enforce the rules at level crossings using highly visible police enforcement.

Motorists who gamble with their safety at level crossings face three demerit points and a $562 fine.

Trains can travel at speeds of up to 160 kilometres per hour and can take up to 1.4 kilometres, or 14 football fields, to come to a complete stop. Even if a train driver sees you, they can’t stop in time.

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley said:

“On long drives, especially on our regional roads, it’s easy to slip into autopilot but if you miss a warning sign, you could be missing the chance to save your own life.

“If you’re not responding to the signs at level crossings, you’re not paying enough attention to drive on our roads and that makes you a danger to yourself and everyone else.

“Level crossing safety comes down to one thing – paying attention. Whether you’ve been behind the wheel for five minutes or five hours, you can’t afford to switch off.”

Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said:

“Closed gates and flashing lights at level crossings mean that a train is approaching and motorists who choose to ignore these signals are putting themselves, their passengers, pedestrians, as well as train passengers and drivers at risk.

“With more than 30 trains a day passing through some level crossings, it’s extremely important for motorists to be patient and obey the signs, flashing lights, boom gates and road markings.

“Ignoring them can and sadly has resulted in avoidable tragedy.

“It can only take a few seconds for a fatal collision to happen.

“Even if the train driver sees you, they often cannot stop in time.

“It’s concerning that so many motorists are speeding on approach to and across level crossings and committing offences despite the presence of clearly marked Highway Patrol vehicles at the level crossings.

“Safety is our top priority, but we all need to look out for each other to ensure everyone reaches their destination safely.”

NSW Police Acting Superintendent Ben Macfarlane said:

“These results are indicative of the complacency around Level Crossings. It is clear that drivers are still ignoring warnings, speed limits and signage.

“Trains can come from any direction, at any time and some trains can take more than a kilometre to come to a complete stop.

“Disobeying level crossing warning signs and lights can lead to crashes between vehicle and trains where the consequences can be deadly. Drivers need to take personal responsibility when around level crossing to ensure the path is clear.”

The Minns Labor Government has delivered over $1 million in grants to support people with disability across the state.

Thirteen not-for-profit organisations will share in over $1 million through the 2024-25 Disability Advocacy Futures Program (DAFP) grants. The funding will help to build the capacity of the sector, extend support to people not covered by the NDIS, and empower people with disability to participate more fully and confidently in community life.

Funded projects of between $20,000 and $100,000 aim to:

• increase supports that enable people with disability to participate in their communities
• strengthen the NSW disability advocacy sector through collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement
• build stronger networks and learning opportunities for advocacy organisations in NSW.

From supporting children newly diagnosed with neuromuscular conditions, to young disability advocates, to Aboriginal students with autism and their families — each initiative aims to close gaps, remove barriers, and strengthen support.

Now in its third funding round, the DAFP Special Purposes and Projects and Sector Development stream is growing the skills, reach and resilience of NSW’s disability advocacy organisations.

The DAFP is a cornerstone of the NSW Government’s commitment to disability advocacy, with the program extended in March 2024 with a further $28 million in funding — securing support through to June 2026. It now funds 19 organisations across NSW to deliver individual, systemic and representative advocacy, as well as sector development.

By investing in advocacy today, the Minns Labor Government is building a more inclusive and equitable future — where every person with disability has the tools, the voice, and the support to participate fully in their community.

Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said:

“We’re proud to be backing these incredible organisations that support people with disability every day — helping them to be heard, to be safe, and to thrive.

“This funding supports projects that create real, tangible change — from helping families navigate a new diagnosis, to giving young people with disability the tools to lead and advocate for themselves.

“We’ve already seen the difference this program can make. Now, with another round of grants, we’re strengthening the foundations of advocacy in NSW and ensuring more people get the support they deserve — when and where they need it.”

Example Projects

A diverse range of projects have been funded in 2024–25, including initiatives to:

• support children newly diagnosed with neuromuscular conditions — and their families and carers — to access information, specialist services, and peer support more easily
• provide DV-alert training for frontline workers, along with workshops to equip women with disability with the tools to recognise abuse
• deliver civics and advocacy training for young people with disability, focusing on leadership, disability rights, and self-advocacy
• develop resources to empower Autistic Aboriginal children and their families throughout their education journey.

For more information on the Disability Advocacy Futures Program, visit the Disability Advocacy Futures Program web page.

The Minns Labor Government has strengthened the Illawarra’s role at the forefront of the nation’s growing hydrogen industry with a new hydrogen research deal.

During a visit to its campus today, Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong announced a $650,000 grant to the University of Wollongong (UoW) for it to lead critical research into hydrogen pipeline safety. This research has the potential to transform safe hydrogen transportation across New South Wales, and around the world.

The University of Wollongong stands out as the only institution in Australia – and one of just five globally – with the capability to conduct this type of hydrogen pipeline testing.

To be delivered over two years, the research will zero-in on the leading cause of hydrogen pipeline failures and develop risk assessment and design tools to address them.

By addressing safety risks and improving regulations, this research has the potential to drive down infrastructure costs and propel Australia’s hydrogen industry to the front of the pack, in line with the NSW Industry Policy’s key mission of Net Zero and Energy Transition.

The project will involve strong collaboration with industry stakeholders including, Inspiring Australia NSW and Science Space, and underscores the NSW Government’s commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability in the energy sector.

Coinciding with Minister Chanthivong’s launch of National Science Week at UoW today, this research delivers on the Minns Labor Government’s promise to invest in new, homegrown solutions aimed at reducing emissions and unlocking the full potential of a net zero economy across the state.

Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“As we kick-off National Science week, the Minns Labor Government is excited to be backing critical hydrogen research with a $650,000 grant to the University of Wollongong.

“This project sits at the intersection of our Industry Policy and Innovation Blueprint, reflecting the importance of investing in scientific research to help solve the challenges shaping the future of some of our biggest industries.

“The University of Wollongong has produced nation-leading and globally-recognised work on hydrogen in the past and the NSW Government is excited to see UoW, in partnership with industry, pave the way for a more sustainable and innovative future.”

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

“Through this $650,000 grant to the University of Wollongong, the Illawarra is poised to become a hub for scientific innovation.

“It’s fantastic to support the University of Wollongong in vital research that could address global challenges and positions the Illawarra as a leader in sustainable energy innovation.”

Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said:

“The Illawarra is leading the way in advancing hydrogen research and development through projects like the hydrogen bus trial, hydrogen-powered garbage trucks and the state’s first heavy vehicle hydrogen refuelling station and the establishment of the Illawarra Hydrogen Technology Hub.

“Building from this success, the grant to the University of Wollongong is a welcome means to further advance this research and innovation.”

Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Wollongong Professor Max Lu AO said:

“We appreciate the NSW government’s funding for hydrogen pipeline research, a priority area for our university.

With expertise in green hydrogen and renewable energy, UOW is driving innovation in sustainable fuels to support economic growth in NSW and Australia.”