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Penrith Beach season extended for Anzac Day public holiday

Western Sydney’s favourite swim spot, Penrith Beach, is opening for an extra day on the new Anzac Day public holiday and operating with extended hours for the Easter long weekend so people can make the most of the season.

The beach will be the place to be on Easter Saturday, 4 April with free ice-creams and hot drinks offered to the first 300 visitors and a DJ and food trucks set to be on site as part of a community day.

It’s continued to be a popular destination welcoming 118,000 visitors so far this summer and almost 450,000 since opening in December 2023.

While it’s welcomed beachgoers from all over most visitors are local to Western Sydney, including 37 per cent from Penrith, 19 per cent from Blacktown, and 12 per cent from the Hawkesbury LGAs.

Across the Easter long weekend, Penrith Beach will continue to be open daily, with the season now to be extended to include the new Anzac Day public holiday on Monday 27 April.

Importantly trained Surf Life Saving NSW lifeguards patrol the beach daily, to make sure it’s a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.

Beyond being a great spot to cool off this summer Penrith Beach has also hosted a number of great free water and sun safety programs.

The free Junior Lifesavers Program was extended due to its popularity, giving 120 local children the chance to learn essential water safety skills from Royal Life Saving experts in a fun and supportive environment.

In partnership with Royal Life Saving NSW, Surf Living Saving NSW and NSW Maritime, about 300 people have also participated in free Community Water Safety Days at Penrith Beach, aimed at increasing confidence and awareness among groups with limited water-safety experience, including newly arrived refugees.

A further 159 people received free skin cancer checks onsite over four days in summer, resulting in 12 people being referred for further health assessment.

The Minns Labor Government has already committed to opening Penrith Beach again during the 2026-27 summer.

For more information, visit NSW Planning.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said:

“More than 118,000 people visited Penrith beach to cool off this summer, and I’m thrilled we’re extending the season as the warm weather continues.

“Western Sydney communities deserve to have access to swimming facilities without driving for hours. Your postcode shouldn’t matter when it comes to a free and accessible place to enjoy the water.

“It’s wonderful to see the community continue to embrace Pondi and make it a Western Sydney favourite.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“Penrith Beach has become one of Western Sydney’s most iconic summer destinations, and its success highlights how vital it is for Western Sydney to have free, accessible and enjoyable places to swim and relax by the water.

“The Minns Government has introduced a new public holiday this year on the Monday after ANZAC Day so we’re extending the season to include it so beach goers can make the most of their favourite swim spot over the upcoming long weekends.”

Member for Penrith Karen McKeown said:

“Penrith beach has had another amazing season offering thousands of Western Sydney locals a free place to cool off close to home this summer.

“The Minns Labor Government is ending the season with a bang, hosting a community day full of family fun on Easter Saturday and extending the season for the new public holiday on April 27 so we can make the more of our favourite swim spot.”

Marathon effort to help women run safely

The Minns Labor Government is continuing work to build a safer New South Wales for women, investing an additional $500,000 into the Run My Way initiative to help increase women’s participation in running in public spaces.

While there has been a rise in running events and run clubs around the state, new research shows half of all women have experienced harassment while running and most women say their sense of safety influences when and where they run.

To support women’s participation in running, the NSW Government is funding a series of Track Nights events in 2026, which will provide runners with opportunities to train and improve their running in a safe, welcoming community.

Delivered in collaboration with the NSW Office of Sport by Athletics NSW and the TCS Sydney Marathon Run Club, the Track Nights events will guide runners through drills and activities to integrate in their training and discuss findings of a new survey into running habits and safety perceptions.

This new NSW Government survey of more than 5,000 people highlights the significant role safety plays in determining when and where women choose to run:

50 per cent of women have experienced harassment on a run, compared to 14 per cent of men
70 per cent of women said they have felt unsafe while running, compared to 29 per cent of men
95 per cent of women say their sense of safety influences their running habits

The additional $500,000 in funding brings the NSW Government’s total investment in Run My Way to $1.3 million over three years from 2025 to 2027. The investment will be used to expand the number of safety initiatives and on-the-ground programs that are delivered in the next phase of the Run My Way program.

The Run My Way initiative is part of the NSW Government’s Safer Cities program, which is focused on improving perceptions of safety in public spaces, particularly for women, girls and gender diverse people.

The $50 million Safer Cities program includes consultation with women and girls about perceptions of safety, along with partnerships with organisations like local councils to test practical initiatives that may improve safety and confidence – such as improved lighting and upgrades to public spaces.

The first Track Nights event was held at Sydney Olympic Park Athletic Centre on Wednesday, 18 March and three further events will be delivered in 2026 at Sydney Olympic Park and ES Marks Athletics Track in Randwick.

These sessions are open to everyone and free to participate in. Registrations here: tcssydneymarathon.com/sydney-marathon-run-club

More initiatives through Run My Way will be delivered over the next 18 months.

Minister for Transport John Graham said:

“Running should be simple – lace up your shoes and go – but for too many women, safety shapes when and where they run.

“These new Track Nights will give runners the chance to try new training techniques, connect and build confidence in a safe and welcoming environment.

“By listening to women and trialling practical initiatives like this, we can learn and test new ways that can help make running safer and more accessible for everyone.”

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:

“Everyone should feel safe to run in their community.

“This investment is about removing barriers so more women, girls and gender diverse people can get active, build confidence and enjoy sport and recreation.

“Run My Way is an initiative of the Minns Labor Government’s women’s sport strategy, Play Her Way, a four-year plan to facilitate opportunities for NSW women and girls to get involved and stay involved in sport.”

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

“These findings highlight a reality many women know too well – safety concerns influence everyday decisions about when and where they exercise.

“Initiatives like Run My Way are helping us better understand those barriers and through our Safer Cities programs take practical steps to address them.

“The Minns Labor Government is working to build a safer New South Wales where women, girls and gender diverse people can feel safe and participate fully in the community.”

Wayne Larden, Race Director, TCS Sydney Marathon:

“Becoming an Abbott World Marathon Major has given us a responsibility beyond race day, to help shape the future of running in Australia.

“Through the TCS Sydney Marathon Run Club, the Track Night Series is designed to bring the running community together, with dedicated sessions that create safe and supportive environments for women, girls and gender diverse runners, alongside opportunities for the broader community to connect and train.

“What we learn here doesn’t stop at the track. It feeds directly into how we continue to evolve the event and contribute to a more inclusive marathon experience at scale.”

More information about the Run My Way program is available at sport.nsw.gov.au/play-her-way/run-my-way

Runners can register for Track Nights events at tcssydneymarathon.com/sydney-marathon-run-club

Community Sport scores with $4.49 million investment

NSW community sport is the winner after the NSW Government awarded $4.49 million through the Local Sport Grant Program.

The funding was awarded to 586 projects that will increase participation in sport and active recreation across NSW.

The Local Sport Grant Program provides grants for minor facility upgrades, new equipment and programs that support and encourage participation in sport and active recreation.

Grants up to $20,000 were available, with $50,000 available in each electorate.

For further information, including the list of successful projects, visit: www.sport.nsw.gov.au/local-sport-grant-program

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:

“The NSW Government is committed to supporting all people, communities and organisations across NSW to enjoy the benefits of sport and active recreation.

“The Local Sport Grant Program helps us achieve this by providing vital funds to community sporting organisations to invest in facility minor upgrades, new equipment and programs.

“With community sport budgets tight and clubs ever more reliant on volunteers, this funding will mean teams can purchase new jerseys and clubs can host events like gala days or come and try days.

“I congratulate the more than 500 sports organisations across NSW that were successful in securing funding and commend them for their commitment to our collective health, wellbeing and sense of identity.”

National fuel relief but Minns Labor Government still has no plan

The NSW Liberals and Nationals have welcomed the Commonwealth’s decision to temporarily halve the fuel excise, after they called for immediate relief for NSW families and businesses.

In contrast, the Minns Labor Government refused to advocate for the reduction and has yet to outline any practical measures at the state level to support drivers facing rising costs.

Shadow Treasurer Scott Farlow said Labor’s vague commitment to consider measures down the track and maybe forgo extra GST revenue does little to help drivers now.

“We welcome the fuel excise cut which is something the NSW Liberals and Nationals have consistently called for to support NSW families and businesses as they face rising costs,” Mr Farlow said.

“This stands in stark contrast to the Minns Labor Government’s inaction and lack of leadership.”

“After refusing to back the cut, the Minns Government must now be clear about what it will actually do to help NSW drivers.”

The NSW Liberals and Nationals have already put forward three measures to provide immediate support, including the fuel excise cut, a fuel cap to lock in prices for 24 hours and free public transport over the Easter long weekend to support families and businesses as well as ease demand on service stations.

NSW Nationals Leader Gurmesh Singh said with 75 NSW service stations without fuel of any kind it appears the situation is worsening in the regions.

“The Minns Labor Government has been promising to address fuel shortages with fuel companies, but service stations are still running dry and they don’t have any answers,” Mr Singh said.

“Almost two weeks on and there is no clarity on what the Minns Labor Government is doing to help regional communities being hit the hardest by this fuel crisis.”

Meeting of National Cabinet

The Prime Minister convened a virtual National Cabinet meeting today to discuss Australia’s national, coordinated response to support our fuel security and supply chain resilience in light of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

First Ministers acknowledged the conflict is contributing to heightened volatility in global energy markets, with flow-on impacts for domestic supply chains and prices. Leaders noted the situation remains dynamic and evolving, underscoring the importance of governments being well-prepared for a range of potential scenarios.

While Australia is in a secure position currently, it’s the responsibility of all governments to plan ahead for every scenario. First Ministers today agreed to the National Fuel Security Plan to coordinate a consistent response across the Commonwealth, states and territories.

The plan outlines how governments will work together to keep Australia open and the economy moving. First Ministers noted that early voluntary action, coupled with new supply measures, can defer or mitigate the need for stronger measures.

Every Australian can play a part to make sure fuel continues to get to those who need it the most. Our collective approach is guided by four levels of action.

Today the National Cabinet is announcing Australia is currently at level “Keeping Australia moving”, having transitioned through “Plan and Prepare”.

The four stages are as follows:

Plan and prepare
Keeping Australia moving
Taking targeted action
Protecting critical services for all Australians

The plan outlines the indicative settings at each level, with roles and responsibilities allocated across governments and industry partners.

Minister Bowen provided an update on Australia’s supply outlook. The Fuel Supply Taskforce Coordinator, Anthea Harris, provided an update on the progress of the Fuel Supply Taskforce. Leaders noted the newly formed Fuel Supply Coordinators group has met twice and will continue to meet twice weekly. Leaders agreed the Fuel Supply Coordinators will be critical to ensure alignment of effort across all levels of government, especially for cross-border considerations.

Leaders reinforced their commitment to securing fuel supply for Australian industry and households, while also shielding Australians from higher prices. Leaders acknowledged the longer the conflict in the Middle East goes on, the more significant the impact will be for global supply chains, fuel prices, and the wider economy.

The National Cabinet will continue to assess whether higher levels of action are needed and will plan accordingly. Any shift in level will be signalled by the National Cabinet, including through consultation with relevant industries and sectors, to ensure additional measures are well-designed and work efficiently.

First Ministers concluded by noting that as their governments work through the immediate challenges, they must all build fuel and energy resilience to shield the Australian community and industry from future global shocks. At the heart of this is unlocking affordable and sovereign energy to underpin Australian industry, lower power prices, and maintain Australia’s status as a trusted and reliable energy exporter.

This media statement has been agreed by First Ministers and serves as a record of meeting outcomes.

Anthony Albanese MP
Prime Minister

Chris Minns MP
Premier of NSW

Jacinta Allan MP
Premier of Victoria

David Crisafulli MP
Premier of Queensland

Roger Cook MLA
Premier of Western Australia

Peter Malinauskas MP
Premier of South Australia

Jeremy Rockliff MP
Premier of Tasmania

Andrew Barr MLA
Chief Minister of the Australian Capital Territory

Lia Finocchiaro MLA
Chief Minister of the Northern Territory

Fuel excise halved for three months

Following a meeting of the National Cabinet today convened by the Prime Minister, the Australian Government will halve the fuel excise on petrol and diesel for three months.

The halving of the fuel excise will reduce the cost of fuel by 26.3 cents per litre.

This will reduce the cost of a 65L tank of fuel by nearly $19.

The spike in fuel prices as a result of the war in the Middle East is hurting Australians and causing financial stress. This will help to provide some relief.

The halving of the fuel excise will commence from April 1 and run to 30 June.

Further, the Albanese Government will reduce the Heavy Vehicle Road User Charge to zero for three months to help truckies continue their vital work for our nation. The Government will also defer the next scheduled increase in the Heavy Vehicle Road User Charge by six months.

Australians are encouraged to use public transport wherever possible to help conserve fuel for the regions, and we welcome existing moves to cut the costs of public transport.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) will continue to monitor fuel prices to help ensure that the lower excise rate is fully passed on at the bowser.

While Australia’s fuel supply outlook remains secure in the near term because of the actions the Albanese Government has taken, the longer this war goes the worse the impacts will be.

We are acting now to prepare and shield Australians.

Since the conflict commenced four weeks ago the Albanese Government has taken swift action on fuel. We have:

Passed new laws to double penalties for petrol companies for price gouging
Appointed a national Fuel Supply Taskforce Coordinator and Taskforce
Released 20 per cent of Australia’s petrol and diesel fuel reserves, targeted at regional areas
Changed fuel standards to get more fuel flowing
Changed diesel standards so Australia’s refineries can supply more diesel
Tasked the ACCC to ramp up fuel price monitoring and issue on-the-spot fines.
Engaged with international partners to keep supply flowing, including securing a supply agreement with Singapore.
Introduced laws to make sure companies pay truckies fairly when fuel prices spike
And introduced legislation to underwrite the purchase of fuel by the private sector.

Today National Leaders also agreed and released a National Fuel Security Plan.

The Prime Minister, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister Bowen continue to engage key international counterparts to help ensure the continued flow of fuel and diesel shipments to Australia from our trade partners. We will continue to keep Australians updated on these discussions and developments.

The Australian Government will be announcing more measures to prepare the nation for supply chain challenges over coming days and weeks.

Officer charged after allegedly accessing restricted data – Northern Region

A police officer has been charged over the alleged unauthorised access of the police computer system in the states north.

In September 2025, officers attached to a northern region command commenced an investigation after reports an officer was illegally accessing private information and distributing restricted police data.

Following inquiries, on Monday 30 March 2026, a 47-year-old man – a sergeant attached to a command in the northern region – was issued a Court Attendance Notice for access / modify restricted data held in computer.

He will appear before Belmont Local Court on Wednesday 13 May 2026.

His employment status is under review.

Two teenage boys seriously injured following e-bike crash – Belmont

Two teenage boys have been taken to hospital in serious conditions following an e-bike crash in the state’s north overnight.

About 8.30pm yesterday (Sunday 29 March 2026), emergency services were called to the intersection of the Pacific Highway and Evans Street, Belmont, following reports of a crash.

Officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District attended and were told an e-bike had collided with the side of a Holden station wagon causing the rider and passenger to be thrown off the vehicle.

The rider and passenger – both 14-year-old boys – were treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics for leg and abrasion injuries before being taken to John Hunter Hospital in serious but stable conditions.

The Holden driver – a 45-year-old man – was uninjured.

Police have commenced an investigation into the incident with officers seizing the e-bike – which was destroyed on impact – for forensic examination.

First Australian-built Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles roll off assembly line

The Albanese Government is delivering on its commitment to deliver capabilities to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) at pace with the first batch of Australian‑built Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles (CRV) already rolling off the assembly line.

The first seven Boxers built at Rheinmetall Defence Australia’s facility at Redbank in Queensland have now been completed, marking a major milestone for our sovereign defence industry. A total of 211 Boxers will be built for the ADF under the partnership with Rheinmetall Defence Australia (RDA) that is boosting domestic supply chains and creating high-skilled jobs nationwide. This includes the 25 Boxer CRVs built in Germany and already in service with the Australian Army.

The partnership with RDA also underscores growing defence industry collaboration between Australia and Germany to deliver critical capabilities for both of our militaries. More than 50 Australian companies have been contracted to support RDA in delivering the new fleet of Boxers, providing work for more than 500 people around the country.

In addition to these Boxers, RDA will also produce more than 100 Australian‑made Boxer Heavy Weapon Carrier vehicles for the German Army, in a contract worth more than $1 billion to the Australian economy.

The Boxer is one of the world’s most advanced armoured vehicles – designed to keep soldiers safe in the toughest conditions. The new vehicles will provide superior protection, firepower and mobility, supporting new long-range strike capabilities that are protected and enabled by a credible, amphibious-capable combined arms land system.

Boxer CRV variants include reconnaissance, command and control, joint fires and surveillance, repair, and recovery. The reconnaissance variant features a turret fitted with a 30mm automatic cannon and an anti‑tank guided missile system.

Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy:

“This announcement reflects the Albanese Government’s commitment to a future made in Australia that is providing superior protection and firepower to our ADF personnel but also supporting industry and creating jobs around the country.

“We proudly welcome the first seven Australian-built Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles, a world-class capability forged with Australian expertise and Australian steel to protect our soldiers on operations.

“Rheinmetall Defence Australia, their industry partners and a highly skilled Aussie workforce have partnered to deliver this home-grown capability for our ADF. But this partnership with Rheinmetall also shows how closely Germany and Australia are working together on critical military capabilities.”

Australia and Germany to closely cooperate on guided weapons components

The Albanese Government has taken a major step toward establishing domestic manufacturing of priority components for anti-ship cruise missiles, delivering another important boost to the nation’s guided weapons capability.

Today, the Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Pat Conroy MP and German Minister for Defence, Mr Boris Pistorius observed the signing of a Letter of Intent between Defence and German warhead manufacturer TDW.

The Letter of Intent establishes Defence and TDW’s shared ambition to strengthen guided weapons manufacturing in Australia. Defence and TDW will explore options for the manufacture and maintenance of warheads for the Naval Strike Missile and Joint Strike Missile in Australia, creating opportunities for local Australian businesses to enter the global supply chain.

The Naval Strike Missile and Joint Strike Missile are modern anti-ship cruise missiles that can be deployed against highly capable enemy warships or land-based targets.

This activity supports the Albanese Government’s investment of up to $850 million to establish local manufacture and maintenance of both missiles at a new world-class facility near Newcastle, in partnership with Kongsberg Defence Australia. This investment includes up to $137 million dedicated to establishing domestic manufacturing of priority missile components, including warheads.

It is also part of the Albanese Government’s commitment of $16-21 billion over the decade to accelerate the establishment of a sovereign Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Enterprise.

Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy:

“This Letter of Intent with TDW marks a major step forward in building a Defence Future Made in Australia that will strengthen the Australian Defence Force, grow our resilience and support our partner nations through exports.

“It advances the Government’s commitment to establish Australia as a leading Indo-Pacific hub for cutting-edge missile manufacturing, placing local businesses at the forefront to enter global supply chains.

“This demonstrates how we are working hand-in-hand with proven international partners to strengthen Australia’s sovereign manufacturing of guided weapons and explosive ordnance.”