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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.”

See behind-the-scenes at the emergency services expo – Lake Macquarie

Speers Point Park will come alive tomorrow (Saturday 25 October 2025) for the second annual Lake Macquarie and Newcastle Emergency Services and Community Resilience Expo – a community event featuring interactive displays and hands-on activities from a wide range of emergency and essential service providers.

The family-friendly expo is a fantastic opportunity to meet the heroes who keep our community safe and running during emergencies including police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and many more.

The event will showcase recruitment opportunities while highlighting the capabilities of local emergency and essential services, providing a unique opportunity for the community to engage with the people behind the uniforms and discover how they keep our community safe, prepared, and resilient every day.

Lake Macquarie Police District Superintendent Tracy Chapman APM said the event provided an opportunity for the community to see behind the scenes.

“This event is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together and see the incredible work our local emergency services and community partners do every day. Their collaboration and commitment play a vital role in keeping Lake Macquarie safe and resilient,” Supt Chapman said.

“After great community feedback last year, we look forward to seeing the community out in large numbers again to support the event.”

NSW Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said the event hopes to build stronger relationships between emergency services and the community.

“The Emergency Services and Community Resilience Expo is a celebration of the extraordinary commitment of our frontline workers, everything from managing natural disasters to responding to medical emergencies,” Minister Catley said.

“Events like this go beyond education and awareness – they’re important in building trust and strengthening the connection between emergency services and the communities they serve.

“When people feel connected, they’re more informed, more engaged and more confident in the support available to them.

“I’m proud to see events like this giving the public an opportunity to acknowledge the dedication of these workers, ask questions and perhaps even be inspired to begin careers in these fields.”

The event will be held at Speers Point Park between 9am and 2pm tomorrow (Saturday 25 October 2025).

Come explore the vehicles, gear, and skills that power our frontline services!

Government’s climate inaction adding fuel to the housing crisis

Homeowners are paying a climate “disaster penalty” as climate-driven floods become more frequent and severe, according to a new report published by the Climate Council and Prop Track.

The report, which analysed more than two decades of property data, found that a million Australian households are already impacted with homes in flood zones collectively worth about $42 billion less due to the risk of floods:

  • Homeowners are effectively paying a “disaster penalty” of about $75,000 for a typical 3-bed, 2-bath house. 
  • As climate-driven floods become more frequent and severe, more properties could face steeper penalties. 
  • Households in Queensland and New South Wales are the hardest hit, followed by Victoria. 
  • Overall rising property prices are masking the fact that flood-prone properties start from a lower value and experience slower growth.

The Greens say urgent action is needed from the Government to address the climate crisis and the housing crisis hitting Australians.

Greens spokesperson for housing, homelessness and finance Senator Barbara Pocock:

“We’re in a housing crisis, and the increasing frequency and intensity of climate-driven disasters is making the housing crisis worse. The crisis is making more homes uninsurable and uninhabitable and it is lowering the value of homes in flood prone areas affecting many lower income households and widening inequality.

“Homeownership is already out of reach for so many Australians. Climate-driven events hiking the cost of insurance and making many properties unoccupiable is making our housing crisis worse.

“This is further proof of where this Government’s priorities lie: Appease the coal and gas corporations while ignoring the costs of climate impacts on Australia’s households.

“Many households across the country spend decades saving for their home deposit and then face high recovery costs and insurance premiums arising from climate-driven disasters. Why should Australians continue to bear the costs of decades of government inaction on climate change? 

“Labor are captured by the interests of coal and gas corporations which mean that they prioritise polluters’ profits ahead of a safe climate future for everyday Australians and nature.

“The Government’s own Climate Risk Assessment Report shows 1.5 million people are at risk of their homes flooding or falling into the sea in the next 25 years. However, the Prime Minister doesn’t want to know about it.

“Labor must deliver a truly ambitious climate target based on science and based on the avoided cost of disasters that are putting too many of us at risk. 

“We have existing, affordable technologies that could deliver over 85% emissions reduction and, with the Greens, Labor has the numbers in parliament to be truly ambitious on climate.

“Labor must stop approving new coal and gas.”

Greens Deputy Leader & Spokesperson for Climate Adaptation, Resilience & Emergency Management, Senator Mehreen Faruqi:

“People are buckling under the combined stressors of the housing and insurance crises, and the trauma of climate disasters destroying their homes and lives.

“It should be climate polluting fossil fuel companies paying the costs of climate-fuelled disasters, not families, communities, renters and retirees who are bearing the brunt of the housing and climate crises.

“Report after report reinforces what scientists and people on the front line of climate disasters have been demanding: the strongest action to tackle the climate emergency is needed urgently.

“Insurance has become a major stressor for at-risk communities as it becomes increasingly unaffordable or unavailable, with insurance companies either pulling out or hiking premiums and making people’s lives even harder.

“Labor needs to stop pouring fuel on the fire of the climate crisis. That means taking every action to transition away from coal and gas right now.”

Greens introduce Cat Containment Laws in NSW Parliament

Greens MP Sue Higginson will introduce a bill to the NSW Parliament today that would create a responsibility for cat owners to prevent their animal from roaming outside of their property. The bill would require cat owners to take reasonable steps to prevent their pet from roaming, and introduce a tiered fine system to encourage community education and cultural change.

Greens MP and spokesperson for the environment said:

“NSW has fallen behind the rest of Australia when it comes to managing roaming cats as a harmful and invasive species, we have to fix this and these laws will do just that,”

“In Sydney alone, roaming pet cats are estimated to have killed over 62 million native animals in 2024 – a shocking number and a significant contributor to the decline of our precious and unique wildlife across the landscape,”

“Roaming cats are also a risk to human and community health, with these animals being the main domestic source of toxoplasmosis – a disease that infects one in five Australians. Toxoplasmosis can cause miscarriages, blindness and brain damage, and roaming pet cats are walking, hunting disease vectors that threaten public health,”

“Cats in Australia have been an unmitigated disaster and have caused the extinction of at least 27 native species and continue to threaten 120 other species with extinction. As long as domestic cats are allowed outside to kill and maim native species, they will continue to be a leading cause of local extinctions in our neighbourhoods,”

“Our biosecurity laws recognise the serious risks that uncontrolled introduced species pose to our unique ecology in Australia, but pet cats have been given a free pass. Today, community expectations are on the side of applying controls to cats in the same way we do with pet dogs, with at least 66% of the community supporting laws to prevent cats from roaming and killing native animals,”

“This reform is well overdue and only possible thanks to the decades of work by the community and organisations that work on the frontline of nature conservation. It’s time to get this done and I hope the Government and the opposition will support this critical change,” Ms Higginson said.

Greens: Labor must back ICJ ruling for Israel to allow unimpeded aid and must sanction Israel

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ordered Israel to allow unimpeded aid into Gaza and has confirmed that the restrictions placed on aid over the past two years have breached Israel’s obligations under international law. The Court found that Israel had a duty not to impede the work of UN organisations, including UNRWA, that were providing aid to Gaza, and that the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) was not a suitable substitute.

Since the so-called ceasefire early in October, Israel has continued to bomb Palestinians and has stopped most of the aid outside Gaza from getting in, and major crossings remain blocked. The ‘ceasefire’ stipulates that 600 aid trucks must enter each day, yet the daily average of trucks entering has been below 100.

Australian F-35 parts and steel have been sent to Israel to fuel its war machine during the genocide. The Foreign Minister should substantially increase the aid being provided to Gaza and should take all possible actions, including sanctions, to force Israel to comply with this ICJ decision.

Greens Deputy Leader and Spokesperson for International Aid & Global Justice, Senator Mehreen Faruqi:

“The latest damning ICJ finding confirms Israel’s deliberate and sustained undermining of UNRWA and finally banning it, as it used starvation as a weapon of war. It was unconscionable of the Albanese Labor government to play a part in this by suspending funding to UNRWA for months, based on unsubstantiated allegations and flimsy Israeli propaganda.

“Since the beginning of the so-called ceasefire, Israel has allowed only a fraction of the aid required into Gaza. The peace plan backed by Australia is showing to be the farce that we all knew it would be.

“Now is the time for Australia to back this ICJ advisory opinion and use all tools available to force Israel to let aid into Gaza and ensure UNRWA is able to operate unimpeded. UNRWA is the only organisation with the capacity to adequately address the situation in Gaza, which remains catastrophic.

“These latest findings confirm what we already know, that Israel has broken international rule after international rule with impunity and cover provided by western countries like Australia and the USA.

“Not only must we sanction Israel and stop the arms trade to force the flow of aid into Gaza, but Israel must be held to account for their genocide, war crimes, and atrocities.

“Australia has a moral obligation to contribute generously to rebuilding Gaza as part of a self-determined Palestinian state. Aid cannot just be the token amounts announced so far, and our contribution must atone for Australia’s role in supplying F-35 parts and steel to the Israeli war machine that continues to kill Palestinians.”