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City of Newcastle balances budget surplus with record infrastructure spend

City of Newcastle has further cemented its position as the Hunter’s most financially sustainable council. 

Draft audited financial statements for 2024/25 reveal City of Newcastle returned a modest budget surplus of $8.7 million while delivering a record $164.1 million in infrastructure for any regional council in NSW.  

It is the city’s third consecutive surplus and ninth in the past 12 years. The only years City of Newcastle has not delivered a budget surplus was for three consecutive years when the Council ran deliberate deficit budgets to supercharge the local economy during the pandemic. 

CEO Jeremy Bath said City of Newcastle continued to build on its legacy of prudent economic management. 

“Maintaining financial sustainability while balancing the needs and expectations of our growing community remains a key driver for City of Newcastle,” Mr Bath said. 

“This legacy is what has allowed us to deliver a record capital works program, renewing and maintaining our older assets while delivering essential community infrastructure and undertaking once-in-a-generation projects such as the upgrades to South Newcastle Beach and the Bathers Way. 

“City-shaping projects formed a key part of the infrastructure program last financial year, including $34.9 million on the Newcastle Art Gallery expansion and $14.4 million for remediation of the former Astra Street landfill site in Shortland to maintain the local protected environment. I look forward to sharing our vision next year with regard to how we are going to make the most of this site for the coming decades. 

“Additionally, our financial statements for 2024/25 have exceeded every financial key performance benchmark set by the Office of Local Government, once again demonstrating the city’s fiscal responsibility and effective management.” 

Other highlights of the 2024/25 infrastructure program include:  

  • $17.2 million invested into road rehabilitation work and significant expenditure allocated to projects at Longworth Avenue, Minmi Road and Memorial Drive 
  • $13.9 million on recreation and sport including upgrade projects at Smith Park, Gregson Park and work on Foreshore Park’s regional level accessible playspace and waterplay area 
  • $11.2 million on planning and environment projects including $3.4 million on coast, estuaries and wetlands and $2.5 million on Blackbutt Reserve with significant expenditure for a new cafe and multipurpose facility 
  • $8.4 million on city infrastructure revitalisation including $4.2 million for the Hunter Street Mall East End Village upgrades 
  • $8.4 million on waste services 
  • $8.3 million on transport projects including $3.6 million for cycleways and $3 million on safety improvement works at the intersection of Glebe Road and Park Avenue, Adamstown. 

The draft audited financial statements for 2024/25 will be tabled at next week’s Council meeting to be authorised for signing.

City Hall dishes up shot at national glory in prestigious hospitality awards

City of Newcastle’s iconic City Hall will be up against the cream of Australia’s hospitality venues next week as it vies for the honour of being named the national Caterer of the Year.

The winner will be announced at the 2025 Restaurant & Catering Hostplus Awards for Excellence on Monday 27 October, with City Hall up against stiff competition including the historic Doltone House at Sydney Town Hall, the riverside dining experience at Blackbird in Brisbane and Australia’s fourth oldest winery, Sandalford Wines in Western Australia.   

The hard-working team at City Hall holding the awards they picked up at the NSW Restaurant & Catering Hostplus Awards for Excellence. They are now in the running for the national titles of Caterer of the Year and Events Caterer.City of Newcastle’s Executive Manager of City Venues, Samantha Bullen, said this recognition reflects the dedication and professionalism of the entire City Hall team.

“City Hall is more than a beautiful, historic building, it’s a place where our community gathers to celebrate, connect and create memories,” Ms Bullen said.

“Being recognised among the best catering venues in Australia is a testament to our passionate team and all those involved in bringing an event together, from the event coordinators, back of house, office and front of house teams, to the talented kitchen team led by our Executive Chef Jess Le Good, who works closely with our Hunter suppliers to showcase the very best of our region.

“This achievement puts Newcastle’s hospitality scene firmly on the national stage. Regardless of the result on Monday, this is a win for our city and a proud moment for everyone involved.”

The annual awards program recognises restaurants and caterers in a variety of categories in each State and Territory, with category winners then qualifying for the National Awards for Excellence.

The awards acknowledge exceptional standards in food, service and event delivery across Australia’s hospitality sector, with judges visiting each venue during an event to experience the operations firsthand.

Aside from being in the running for the major Caterer of the Year award, City Hall is also a national finalist in the Events Caterer category.

Official judging took place during Hunter Medical Research Institute’s (HMRI) Gala Ball in June, where 270 guests were treated to a fantastic night of food and entertainment at City Hall.

Chair of HMRI’s Special Events Committee, Amy-Lea Pettigrew said City Hall continues to deliver an outstanding experience for their key annual event, which this year raised a record $220,000 to support medical research.

“City Hall has been a fantastic long-term partner for the HMRI Gala Ball,” Ms Pettigrew said.

“The attention to detail, quality of service, delicious food and dedication to the community make the team at City Hall truly deserving of this recognition.”

City of Newcastle operates several landmark venues including City Hall, Fort Scratchley Function Centre and the Civic Theatre, which welcome tens of thousands of visitors each year for weddings, conferences, concerts and major celebrations.

Fort Scratchley Function Centre was also recognised at the State awards earlier this year, named a finalist in the Event/Convention Centre Caterer – Regional NSW category.

Increased infrastructure investment needed to fast track housing growth

City of Newcastle is calling on the NSW Government to significantly increase investment into critical infrastructure to help councils meet their ambitious housing targets.

Newcastle was allocated the highest housing target in the Hunter region when the NSW Government released five-year housing targets for 43 local government areas in May 2024.

City of Newcastle’s Executive Director of Planning and Environment Michelle Bisson said the forecast modelling does not consider barriers in the market that affect completion rates.

“Over the past decade City of Newcastle has been laying the groundwork for future growth, planning for higher density living and diverse housing options, and creating frameworks to deliver more streamlined and efficient development assessments,” Ms Bisson said.

“This placed us on track to exceed the long-term housing forecasts under the NSW Government’s Hunter Regional Plan 2041.

“But the NSW Government revised our target last year, compressing 62% of the previous 20-year target into just five years, disproportionately front-loading delivery expectations.

“The methodology used is based on theoretical housing capacity modelling without considering the economic and environmental constraints impacting delivery.

“While local councils play a key role in facilitating housing growth through zoning, development assessment and infrastructure planning, they are not responsible for housing construction and have little control over delivery. There are currently more than 2,000 dwellings in Newcastle that have been approved but not yet constructed. Council has no ability to make a developer commence construction.

“The pace and scale of housing delivery is primarily driven by market conditions, including financial viability, construction costs, labour costs, provision of infrastructure, workforce availability, and investor confidence.”

Newcastle’s target of 11,100 completed dwellings by 2029 almost doubles the previous forecast for delivery under the Hunter Regional Plan 2041.  

This equates to an average of 2,220 dwellings needing to be built per year. Under the Hunter Regional Plan 2041 target, an average of 940 dwellings were required to be constructed per year.

During the peak construction periods of 2016 to 2018, and 2020 to 2021, City of Newcastle averaged approval of 1,364 and 1,129 dwellings per year respectively. 

City of Newcastle is consistently ranked as the top performing council within the Hunter region and among the top-performing councils in all of NSW for development assessment and determination.

This is due in part to the implementation of its award-winning Accelerated Development Application System, which streamlines the assessment of routine and code-compliant applications to improve efficiency and reduce timeframes. 

Councillors will consider a report at next week’s Council meeting that outlines the challenges being faced by City of Newcastle, opportunities to address housing delivery and the need for more equitable access to NSW Government funding.

“Current trends and market conditions indicate that achieving the revised 2029 target is extremely unlikely without a significant injection of funding for enabling infrastructure by the NSW Government,” Ms Bisson said.

“The best chance of achieving this target would be through the Broadmeadow Place Strategy, a shared vision developed in collaboration with the NSW Government that has the potential to deliver 20,000 new homes for 40,000 people. 

“We will continue to advocate for the NSW Government to accelerate its investment in the infrastructure needed to enable development in this precinct.

“Consideration should also be given to the parameters around a range of infrastructure funding programs that City of Newcastle has been excluded from, or disadvantaged by. For example, there is more than half a billion in Government community infrastructure funding that only Sydney councils are eligible to receive. Newcastle and Lake Macquarie are not entitled to even one dollar of this. 

“The report to Council recommends continued advocacy to the NSW Government for a funding model that recognises planning performance, as well as the reinstatement of the Mine Grouting Fund to unlock stalled development.

“We will continue to leverage every available tool to eliminate barriers and streamline delivery pathways, and will continue to work with the NSW Government to secure the long-term supply of well-located housing across the city.”

Let us entertain you: cap on major events at Randwick Racecourse to be lifted

The Minns Labor Government is turbocharging events and entertainment in Sydney, lifting the cap on major events at Royal Randwick Racecourse to allow up to 10 major cultural events of between 5,000 and 15,000 people each year, in addition to race days.

Previously limited to a single cultural event of over 5,000 people, a consent which expired in 2024, the lifting of this cap will unlock more opportunities for world-class entertainment in our city.

Already home to some of Australia’s premier race days, these new concerts and major cultural events at Royal Randwick are expected to inject more than $19 million into the NSW economy.

The decision will transform the iconic venue into a year-round destination for concerts, cultural festivals, exhibitions, and community gatherings – giving locals and visitors more reasons to enjoy world class entertainment in the city.

This is a major boost to the NSW economy, vibrancy agenda and will support more than 100 ongoing jobs and create new opportunities for young people, families, and communities to experience live performances and cultural events.

This proposal is consistent with a key part of the NSW Government’s vibrancy reforms, designed to unlock new opportunities for live entertainment and experiences. These additional event days at Royal Randwick

Racecourse put these reforms into action – making it easier to activate iconic spaces, support local creativity, and build a more vibrant nighttime economy.

This comes as the NSW Government has also lifted concert caps at Centennial Park and the Sydney Cricket Ground precinct, while also launching a redevelopment of the nearby Entertainment Quarter.

The first events are expected from late 2026, adding even more colour and energy to Sydney’s cultural calendar.

With excellent connectivity via light rail, buses, major roads, and parking for over 3,500 cars, the venue is well-located to support easy access from suburbs across Sydney. The venue will continue working closely with councils, NSW Police and Transport for NSW to make sure events are safe, well-managed and enjoyable for all.

The new events at Randwick Racecourse and surrounding venues builds on over two years of vibrancy reforms including:

  • A boost to capacity, entertainment and events along with supporting more than 20 local councils to establish Special Entertainment Precincts.
  • Ending single serial noise complaints, extending trading hours for venues that host live entertainment, reducing red tape around entertainment and outdoor spaces.
  • Making it easier and more affordable to have events like street fairs and community festivals on public land.
  • Streamlined approvals for outdoor dining, increased outdoor venue capacity and removed the ban on standing up drinking
  • Scrapping the 5km member sign in rule at clubs.
  • Rolling out $14.9 million in Uptown Grants to support entertainment hubs.

The NSW Government has granted approval, following extensive community consultation, with strong safeguards in place to manage noise, traffic, and crowd impacts.

Event plans, real-time noise monitoring, and a dedicated feedback hotline will mean the community enjoys the benefits of increased vibrancy while neighbourhood amenity is protected.

Premier of NSW Chris Minns said:

“Sydney is a global city – it should be buzzing not just on our premier race days, but all year round.

“By unlocking this iconic venue to host more events, Royal Randwick is helping drive new life back into our city, supporting jobs, local businesses, and fun.

“We’ve lifted the concert cap at the SCG precinct, Centennial Park and now Royal Randwick. This is good for jobs, good for the economy, and great for the community.”

Minister for the Arts and Night-time Economy John Graham said:

“We need more spaces for outdoor entertainment in Sydney.

“We support opening up Randwick Racecourse for more than just racing. Randwick Racecourse has good existing transport links and is a great place for more entertainment offerings.

“For too long, Sydney has been reined in by red tape. We’ve been removing unnecessary restrictions, lifting the concert cap and changing our noise complaint rules to get the city back up and running.

“The Minns Labor Government wants NSW to be the place where young people choose to live and work which means alongside unlocking more housing, we must also support lively communities and culture.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“Randwick Racecourse is one of Sydney’s great public venues.

“It has excellent transport connections and is built to host tens of thousands of people, and now it can be used more often for everyone’s benefit.

“We’re realising Royal Randwick’s full potential as a cultural and community hub – a space built for big moments and shared experiences. With safeguards in place, we’re making sure we balance both vibrancy and neighbourhood amenity.”

Member for Coogee Dr Marjorie O’Neill said:

“As the local member, I am proud to see Randwick open its gates to more than just racing.

“This is about giving people in the East more opportunities to enjoy world-class events right on their doorstep.

“We have listened to local voices and put in place strong protections in place to manage noise, traffic and crowd impacts. This is a win for our community, our economy and our young people who want more reasons to stay, play, and thrive – close to home.”

NSW Government launches new Retail Crime Strategy with statewide rollout of Operation Percentile

The Minns Labor Government is today launching the new NSW Police Force Retail Crime Strategy to tackle retail crime and keep workers safe.

NSW Police will also roll out Operation Percentile statewide – a proven policing model targeting recidivist offending and high-harm retail offenders.

The strategy will tackle offences including assaults, intimidation and threats of violence, repeat offending and theft.

It was developed in consultation with the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees’ Association (SDA), the Australian Retailers Association, National Retail Association and the Shopping Centre Council.

It sends a clear message that the NSW Government and NSW Police Force have zero tolerance for anyone who attacks or instils fear in workers.

Key elements of the strategy include:

  • Conducting high-visibility policing operations, including knife scanning operations in retail precincts to deter violent behaviour.
  • Running intelligence-led retail theft operations to target and disrupt crime.
  • Establishing dedicated points of contact within each police region to support faster communication, coordination and response to incidents.
  • Further supporting retailers through educational initiatives, such as the distribution of Retail Safety Packs, along with undertaking Safer by Design site assessments, delivered by local Crime Prevention Officers.
  • Developing a communication package for officers to increase frontline police awareness and understanding of retail crime and its impacts.
  • Holding monthly meetings with NSW-based retailers to discuss emerging threats and issues raised by peak bodies.

Police prosecutors will apply to prevent recidivist and violent offenders from re-entering retail premises with a Place Restriction Order after a conviction. Operation Percentile is a key element of the new strategy.

It has run across Central Metropolitan Region since August 2024, proving so successful that police are rolling it out statewide.

Since launching in August 2024, 1,080 people have been charged with more than 1,395 offences with an estimated recovered stock value of $960,500.

Operation Percentile is formally recognised by the National Retail Association for excellence in law enforcement and its impact in retail crime prevention.

The strategy follows the Minns Labor Government cracking down on retail assaults, threats and abuse with tougher laws, penalties and prison time.

The 2023 laws created three new offences with penalties of up to 11 years’ imprisonment. Since July 2023, 189 individuals have been charged with 239 offences.

The Minns Labor Government has established a “tripartite working group” collaboration with SDA and the retailers to address violence against retail workers and potential penalties for misconduct.

Anyone can anonymously report an incident of violence in the workplace by calling SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50.

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

“No one should be attacked for simply doing their job which is why the NSW Police, backed by the Minns Government, is taking decisive action by giving police everything they need to keep the community safe.

“Violence and aggression towards workers is intolerable and the presence of police tells people in no uncertain terms that this behaviour will not be tolerated and there are real consequences for those who cross the line.

“Today’s announcement strengthens our commitment to protect workers and with this new strategy, police will have the resources they need to respond swifty and effectively.

“We are deeply grateful for the dedication and professionalism of our police officers. They work tirelessly across every facet of their work, and this strategy will only strengthen that work.”

Minister for Work Health and Safety, Sophie Cotsis said:

“The NSW Police Force Retail Crime Strategy is yet another important step towards tackling retail crime and keeping workers safe.

“The Minns Labor Government’s tough laws to help protect retail workers include greater penalties and time behind bars with more than 100 people charged since June 2023. We have seen over 3,300 requests for service in the retail sector made to SafeWork NSW over the past five years.

“I have formed a tripartite working group along with SafeWork NSW, SDA and the retailers to address violence and abuse against workers in the retail sector and ensure compliance. This work is also backed by SafeWork NSW’s Respect at Work team who create tailored guidance preventing harassment in the retail sector.

“The NSW Government is taking a zero-tolerance approach. Retail workers have the right to feel and be safe when they go to work and this strategy will continue to protect them.”

NSW Police Commissioner, Mal Lanyon said:

“It’s deeply concerning that a small proportion of offenders are responsible for a significant share of retail crime, with devastating consequences for those affected.

“This strategy outlines clear objectives and a comprehensive suite of tactics to disrupt repeat offending and drive intelligence-led retail operations across the state.

“Police will continue to collaborate closely with retailers and industry bodies to refine our disruption strategies and respond swiftly to emerging threats.

“While prevention remains our priority, we will also enforce place-based restrictions to prevent recidivist offenders from causing further harm.”

Secretary of SDA NSW, Bernie Smith said:

“This new Retail Crime Strategy is a crucial step forward to protect frontline retail workers from the escalating wave of customer violence and abuse.

“It builds on years of campaigning by retail workers through the SDA’s ‘No One Deserves a Serve’ campaign.

“We’ve had enough of retail workers being treated like punching bags.

“Cops in shops are especially welcome; high visibility policing in shopping centres will send a strong message that violence and intimidation won’t be tolerated anywhere.

“No area is safe from retail crime. We welcome the fact that this is a truly statewide effort, from Albury to Alstonville, from Dubbo to Mount Druitt, and everywhere in between.”

Chief Executive of the Australian Retailers Association, Chris Rodwell said:

“The NSW Government is showing genuine leadership in addressing the devastating impacts of retail crime – first with toughened legislation, and now with the strengthened commitment to police resourcing and the apprehension of repeat offenders. It follows extensive consultation with the government, including direct discussions with the Premier.

“Retail crime is at a crisis level in Australia, with a ripple effect on every retail worker, business owner and retail customer. Too often our front-line workers bear the brunt of this crime wave with unacceptable levels of customer aggression, abuse, assault and weapon-related threats and attacks. By conservative estimates, retail theft costs retailers $9 billion every year. Every customer faces the impact of that because it ultimately leads to increased prices at the check-out.

“We know 10 percent of offenders are responsible for around 60 percent of total harm, which is why the emphasis on repeat offenders is strongly welcomed in today’s announcements.

“There is no single solution to this ongoing challenge, but this latest action by the NSW Government and NSW Police is a great example of what can be achieved by listening and collaborating with retailers. We are committed to working with them and communities across the state to reduce retail crime and improve the safety of every person working in retail.”

Chief Executive of the Shopping Centre Council of Australia (SCCA), Angus Nardi said:

“The shopping centre industry strongly supports the NSW Government’s new Retail Crime Strategy.

“Our industry thanks the NSW Government for their engagement, and we look forward to partnering further with the Government, NSW Police and other stakeholders to ensure community safety in shopping centres and other retail settings.

“It is particularly pleasing that the Strategy has a strong focus on repeat and high-harm offenders, and also sends a strong signal that aggression, violence and intimidation in retail settings will not be tolerated.”

Minns Labor Government secures long-term celebration of beloved grandparents

The Minns Labor Government has secured an historic three-year partnership to support NSW libraries as vibrant hubs for NSW Grandparents Day celebrations.

The partnership with the NSW Public Libraries Association locks in almost $180,000 for 112 NSW libraries to host activities over the NSW Grandparents’ Day weekend.

NSW Grandparents’ Day activities may include short programs, performances, and Storytime.

This is the first time a three-year partnership has been established in recognition of the invaluable contributions of grandparents and older role models to families and communities across the state.

Libraries provide inclusive spaces for seniors to stay connected and active in their communities. They offer engaging opportunities including educational programs, social activities, and digital literacy workshops. 

Coordination of NSW Grandparents’ Day events is identified as a key action to support participation in inclusive communities as part of the Ageing Well in NSW Action Plan 2025-2026.

NSW Grandparents Day has been a feature of the NSW Ageing Strategy for 14 years.

Events are an opportunity for family members to make grandparents feel loved on their special day.

For more information and celebration ideas, visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/family-and-relationships/grandparents-day

Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said:

“Each year, NSW Grandparents Day recognises grandparents and the diversity of grandparent relationships we have with older people in our community.

“We all have a special place in our hearts for grandparents and it’s fitting for us to make them feel special for everything they do for us.

“This three-year partnership puts libraries at the centre of NSW Grandparents Day celebrations and helps foster a culture of connection and lifelong learning. 

“This NSW Grandparents’ Day on Sunday 26 October is the perfect opportunity to honour grandparents, the lives they have lived and the contributions they have made and continue to make.” 

CEO NSW Public Libraries Association Adele Casey said:

“Through our ongoing partnership with the government, NSWPLA is thrilled to see more than 110 libraries marking Grandparents’ Day this year.

“Three years of dedicated funding ensures that Grandparents’ Day events thrive in libraries across NSW and continue to strengthen intergenerational bond, foster community spirit and honour the lasting contributions of older people.”

New intake of control staff and paramedics for NSW ambulance

NSW Ambulance proudly welcomed 40 new paramedic interns and 21 trainee emergency medical call takers today, officially inducting them into the service during a ceremony at the State Operations Centre in Sydney Olympic Park.

With this latest intake, NSW Ambulance has now added around 800 new paramedic trainees, along with more than 150 emergency medical call takers since the start of the year, providing an important boost to frontline health services across the state.

The recruits bring with them a diverse range of skills and experiences, including paramedic intern Shoallea Attoe, who overcame several personal obstacles to fulfill her dream and Niko Auer, who previously worked in media and will be joining the ranks of our emergency medical call takers.

Paramedic interns will now begin the on-road phase of their 12-month internships at various locations across NSW, before taking up permanent positions in both metropolitan and regional communities.

The trainee emergency medical call takers will be posted to the Sydney control centre.

Minister for Health, Ryan Park:

“I’m so proud to welcome these incredible new paramedics and emergency call takers to NSW Ambulance.

“These additional recruits will play an important role in supporting our community in emergencies, strengthening our frontline workforce and helping form the backbone of our healthcare system.

“The Minns Labor Government knows that investing in additional paramedics and emergency call takers is vital for the evolution of NSW Ambulance, as it continues to deliver exceptional patient care.”

NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan:

“I am delighted to welcome this latest group of paramedics and emergency call takers, with both roles critical in delivering timely and high-quality care.

“The diverse background and experiences of these new recruits will enrich the service and benefit communities across the state.

“Welcoming new staff is not just about increasing numbers; it is about building a team that patients can trust to deliver world class responses and treatment.”

paramedic intern, Shoallea Attoe:

“I had dreams of becoming a paramedic, but as a teenage mum it felt so far out of reach that I dismissed it.

“I am so proud of how far I’ve come, and of the example I’ve been able to set for my daughter that no matter your background, dreams that once felt impossible can be reached.”

trainee emergency medical call taker, Niko Auer: 

“I wanted to find a more meaningful job, something community focused and with a positive career progression.

“To be such an integral part of an emergency service is the right direction for me.”

Tender process opens today for Entertainment Quarter redevelopment

The Entertainment Quarter is one step closer to a vibrant new future with the NSW Government today opening the tender process for the revitalisation of the site, supported by a new long-term lease.

Currently, the Entertainment Quarter (EQ) at Moore Park is falling short of meeting its full potential as one of Sydney’s key hubs for entertainment, sport and creative industries.

In a prime location, the EQ sits alongside the SCG and Allianz Stadium, is 300 meters from the light rail, and is within walking distance of Centennial Park. The potential for the former Sydney Showgrounds site is immense.

The market is encouraged to submit their interest in delivering a world-class redevelopment of the EQ, ensuring it flourishes well into future, supporting more visitors, live performances and public events.

The process will allow all interested parties to put forward their plans to redevelop the precinct.

The open tender process will seek proposals that:

  • Deliver a hub of activity, driving increased visitation all year round, including midweek and at night.
  • Celebrate the history and cultural heritage of the site, integrating with the broader sports and entertainment precinct and parklands.
  • Create spaces that can host substantial audiences for live performances, with the potential for an indoor arena of 15–20,000 seats as part of the vision.

The process will be conducted openly and transparently, with independent probity oversight to ensure value for money and a fair opportunity for all proponents.

Revitalising the 10.96 hectare site aligns with the Government’s vibrancy reforms and vision for the state’s night-time economy: to cement NSW as a world-class nightlife destination for visitors, locals and workers alike.

Tender responses must be submitted by Friday, 5 December 2025.

To enable the open tender process, the NSW Government has secured agreement from the current leaseholder, Carsingha Investments Pty Ltd, for a conditional exit from its existing lease, which has a maximum term expiring in 2046.

The tender process follows initial market soundings, along with stakeholder consultation to develop a framework to guide the evaluation of proposals.

To view the tender documentation and for more information on the opportunity to revitalise the EQ, visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/investment-nsw/why-nsw/entertainment-quarter.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said:

“The NSW Government wants to see the EQ at Moore Park reach its full potential.

“We will do this through a long-term lease, which will allow the successful proponent to make the necessary investments.

“We want to transform the EQ into a world-class precinct that Sydney can truly be proud of.”

Minister for Music and the Night-Time Economy John Graham said:

“In opening the EOI process we’re getting closer to seeing entertainment at the Entertainment Quarter.

“We want to draw out world-class ideas that make the most of the great location and amplifies its role as Sydney’s premier sports and entertainment precinct, with a range of day and night entertainment opportunities for the community.

“Sydney is crying out for a new large live music and performance space. Complementing the lifting of the concert cap at Centennial Park, a revitalised and vibrant Entertainment Quarter will help us continue to unshackle our entertainment culture from the dark days of the lock-out era.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“Sydney is a world class city that deserves the facilities in the Entertainment Quarter to match, so we can attract events and performances NSW has been crying out for.

“The expressions of interest and assessment process will make sure we are getting the best outcome possible for the people of NSW. 

“This builds on the Minns Labor Government continuing vibrancy reforms that are re-igniting our state’s spark.”

Marking 40 years since the Handback of Uluru

Tomorrow marks the 40-year anniversary of the return of Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park to Anangu, its Traditional Owners.

The Handback is a significant milestone for Anangu and in the history of Australian Indigenous land rights, ending decades of lobbying by Traditional Owners to have their rights recognised.

The then-Prime Minister, Bob Hawke announced in November 1983 that the government would amend the Aboriginal Land Rights Act and return the title for Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to its Traditional Owners.

On 26 October 1985, the Hawke Labor Government and the then-Governor-General, Sir Ninian Stephen, handed back the title deeds to Uluru-Kata Tjuta to Anangu during a ceremony held in the remote community of Muṯitjulu.

Anangu signed a 99-year lease to jointly manage the national park with the Commonwealth, through the Director of National Parks.

The Prime Minister and the Minister for the Environment and Water have travelled to Central Australia this weekend to join anniversary events.

The theme of the 2025 Handback celebration is Fire of the Past, Igniting the Hearts of the Future which translates to Waru Iritinguru, Tiliningi Kurunpa Kuranyukutungku Katiringkupai in Pitjantjatjara, one of the two languages spoken by Anangu in Uluru.

A public event is being held today to celebrate the anniversary at the Talinguṟu Nyakunytjaku sunrise viewing area at Uluru. The event will feature a marketplace showcasing Anangu arts and crafts, inma (traditional dance), and a concert featuring local Indigenous performers.

An exhibition commemorating 40 years of the joint management of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park through artworks, photographs and historical materials is on display at the Uluru Cultural Centre.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

“This anniversary stands tall in the story of our nation – 40 years since the Commonwealth of Australia returned Uluru and Kata-Tjuta to the Anangu people.

“Handback recognises that unbreakable relationship with Country which was formally recognised four decades ago.

“It is a deep honour for me to be the first Prime Minister to attend a Handback Anniversary.”

the Anangu Chair of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Board of Management Tapaya Edwards

“Uluru and Kata Tjuta are very important to Anangu. We have always lived here, and having the land returned to us 40 years ago was an important moment for us.

“The national park is a place where Tjukurpa – Anangu law and culture – can be kept strong for future generations.

“There is still much work to be done, and we look forward to seeing our young people carry this flame forward, as they learn Anangu traditional knowledge and Western knowledge to care for Country and keep Tjukurpa strong.”

Minister for the Environment and Water, Murray Watt

“The Handback of Uluru under the Hawke Labor Government was a historic moment of justice, recognising Anangu as its true owners.

“Joint management with the Commonwealth ensures Aṉangu have a lead role in the protection of the enormous environmental and cultural values of this significant national park.

“The Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Cultural Centre was opened in 1995 to mark the 10th anniversary of the Handback.

“It’s fitting that for the 40th anniversary, a range of upgrades to the Cultural Centre and around the national park have been completed with funding from the Albanese Government.

“Planning is also underway for more upgrades, including to the iconic Uluru base walk, so visitors can continue to experience this World Heritage Listed site.”

Minister for Indigenous Australians, Malarndirri McCarthy

“The Handback of Uluru and Kata Tjuta was a defining moment in the history of land rights in Australia, a recognition of the Anangu people’s deep and enduring connection to Country and a powerful act of justice.

“It laid the foundation for other landmark returns across the nation and continues to shape how governments and communities work together to honour First Nations people and their custodianship of land.”

Improving access and safety: Cockle Creek Station upgrade moves into delivery stage

The Boolaroo and Argenton communities will soon benefit from a more accessible Cockle Creek Station with confirmation that construction work is planned to commence in mid-2026. The upgrade is being delivered by the Minns Labor Government’s Safe and Accessible Transport program and will deliver accessible, modern and integrated public transport facilities for residents and visitors to Cockle Creek. The upgrade includes improved footbridge access to the station with new lifts and stairs, accessible paths to station amenities including improvements to Lake Road entry, a new kiss and ride zone, new accessible parking spaces and bicycle parking. It will also include CCTV cameras and wayfinding signage, improved connections to the bus stop, tactile indicators, and other upgrades to make facilities at the station more accessible. Early investigations for the scope of works will be undertaken by Transport for NSW in the coming months, with construction planned to start in mid-2026. A Review of Environmental Factors will be displayed ahead of construction. Construction is expected to take one year, weather permitting, with the upgrades complete by mid2027. The station will remain operational except for advertised weekend closures. Minister for Transport, John Graham said: “With more people using Cockle Creek Station than ever before, and continued growth projected for the region, it’s great to hear work will begin on the accessibility upgrades in early 2026. “These upgrades to Cockle Creek Station are a great first step in improving safety and amenity for people, including seniors and people living with disability, travelling between Sydney and Newcastle.

Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley said: “This is another great example of the Minns Labor Government delivering for the Hunter, making every day travel safer, easier and more accessible for local people. “The Cockle Creek Station upgrade will give residents more choice and confidence when using public transport, whether they’re heading to work, school or the shops. “It’s fantastic to see investment flowing into our region to create a transport network that keeps the Hunter connected and supports our growing communities.” Minister for Disability Inclusion, Kate Washington said: “Making public transport more accessible is an absolute priority of the Minns Labor Government, because we know the difference it makes to people’s lives. “The accessibility upgrades at Cockle Creek Station are yet another clear demonstration of our commitment to build a better, more inclusive NSW.” Minister for Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison said: “I’m proud to see work moving ahead to make Cockle Creek Station safer and more accessible for the local community. “The Safe and Accessible Transport program aims to ensure the NSW Government is creating and building on well-connected, well-serviced neighbourhoods. “This is all part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to build better communities for NSW. “We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive and connected transport network right across NSW, one that works for everyone, no matter where they live or how they travel.” Duty MLC for Lake Macquarie, Emily Suvaal said: “This upgrade is great news for the local area and will make a real difference for people who rely on Cockle Creek Station every day. “The improvements to access, parking and safety will help more people connect easily with work, school, shops and local services. “Projects like this show the Minns Labor Government is focused on building better connections and investing in the infrastructure that keeps our communities moving.” Member for Lake Macquarie, Greg Piper said: “This is a great first step in improving safety and amenity for people to travel to, from and around the Hunter via Cockle Creek station. “This project will make it easier for everyone to use public transport, whether you’re travelling with a pram, bike or luggage, or you need extra support to get around. “Accessible transport means freedom and independence. It allows people to get to work, appointments and social activities in ways that suit their needs.”