16 News

The Minns Labor Government has paved the way for up to 2,500 new social, affordable, and private homes north of Wollongong, finalising the rezoning of the Bellambi estate today.

Homes NSW will lead a staged renewal of the 26‑hectare estate, replacing ageing social homes with at least 750 modern, safe, and well‑designed social homes, alongside private and affordable dwellings— at a minimum nearly double the social housing on the estate.

The renewal will deliver improved housing, replacing near 50 to 60 year old homes with new, modern, high-quality housing while also helping to ease pressure on the local housing market, offering more housing choices in the area.

Key features of the finalised rezoning:

• minimum of 30 per cent social housing
• maximum building heights of between three and four storey homes on the beach front and six storey homes in the centre of the estate
• floor space ratios between 0.8:1 and 1.8:1
• a new local centre and public plaza
• upgraded public open spaces and improved local streets with improved walking and cycling connections
• minimum tree canopy target of 30 per cent across the rezoning area.

Submissions received during the public exhibition period were carefully considered as part of the finalisation of the proposal.

As planning for the redevelopment progresses, Homes NSW will continue to work closely with existing residents at every step, keeping them informed and supported throughout.

Since the NSW Government identified the area as suitable for housing renewal in June 2024, Homes NSW has undertaken extensive engagement with residents and the local community, with findings published in the Bellambi People and Place Plan in October 2025.

The redevelopment of Bellambi estate will help meet housing targets set by the Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Plan 2041 and the Wollongong Local Planning Statement 2025-2045.

For more information, visit NSW Planning.

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

“This investment in the Bellambi community is the most significant we have seen decades. It will replace ageing homes, many of which are 50 to 60 years old, with modern, energy-efficient housing that is warmer in winter, cooler in summer, and more accessible for some of our most vulnerable and elderly residents.

“This renewal will also deliver upgraded infrastructure and improved connectivity throughout Bellambi, helping to provide the quality housing, community facilities, and local improvements that will support the area’s growth and strengthen the community for generations to come.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said:

“Renewing the Bellambi estate will create thousands of new homes close to the beach, open space, and public transport along with thousands of jobs for tradespeople needed to deliver this multi-year build.

“This is an overdue investment that will replace homes more than 50 years old with new, modern, high-quality housing.

“This is the largest investment in Bellambi ever and is another example of the Minns Labor Government building better communities by delivering more social housing alongside market housing to either rent or buy at the same time.”

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said:

“We’re delivering modern, high‑quality homes in Bellambi, along with better open spaces, improved community facilities, and a new local retail centre for residents.

“Since August 2024, we’ve been working closely with the community to shape Bellambi’s renewal, with plans to deliver thousands of new social, affordable, and private homes.

“Through our $6.6 billion Building Homes for NSW program, we’re making sure more people across the state can access a safe and secure home.”

The Minns Labor Government has today announced a $41 million investment in the upcoming State Budget to supercharge work on the revitalisation of the Gosford waterfront precinct.

Prior to the 2023 election, the Government committed $8.5 million to conduct feasibility studies on how to best revitalise Gosford’s waterfront to enhance public space and improve connectivity.

With preliminary planning now complete, work can now begin to unlock the potential for Gosford’s long overlooked waterfront.

A key first stage will be to connect Gosford to Point Clare with a new boardwalk for pedestrians and cyclists, improving connectivity, accessibility and opening up Brisbane Water for the Central Coast community.

The first phase of the revitalisation – to be funded in the 2026-27 NSW Budget – will deliver a one kilometre, 4.5-metre-wide boardwalk adjacent to the existing railway line over Brisbane Water, providing a safe and dedicated link for people walking and riding between the two centres.

The boardwalk is planned to connect Goodaywang Reserve in Point Clare to Grahame Park at Gosford waterfront, creating a continuous route for pedestrians and cyclists.

In the Minns Labor Government’s plans unveiled today, the boardwalk will connect into an enhanced public domain along the waterfront from Grahame Park to the Gosford Scout Hall, with additional works to include a new waterfront café.

This investment is part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to building better communities on the Central Coast, helping deliver the amenities local residents can enjoy for decades to come.

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

“Central Coast residents are lucky to have some of the best waterfront views in the world.

“Being able to enjoy this natural asset alongside modern, public amenities shouldn’t be restricted to places like Sydney Harbour.

“We’re getting on with unlocking the potential of the Gosford waterfront so local residents and tourists can make the most of this spectacular area for years to come.”

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said:

“Gosford has amazing potential and revitalising the waterfront into a vibrant destination linking the city and its surrounds, is a key part of this picture.

“The Central Coast community made almost 3,500 submissions last year when asked about their vision for the Gosford Waterfront.

“The results were clear: the majority want to see more places to walk and cycle, so I am delighted our Government will soon begin work on bringing the community’s vision to life.”

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“Our vision is to transform the Gosford waterfront into a vibrant destination, and a brand new walkway will let families, visitors and locals soak up the views on the journey between Gosford and Point Clare.

“We want to unlock Gosford’s potential and this project is a vital step in reconnecting the community with the waterfront while boosting local businesses and strengthening local tourism opportunities.”

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said:

“Almost exactly a year ago, I stood alongside our community in launching a petition calling on this project to be delivered and I am thrilled to see this vision become a reality.

“This investment provides a vital connection for our growing community to our spectacular natural landscape through active recreation as our city continues to grow.

“When completed, this pathway will be a popular focal point for our community, where workers, visitors and leisure seekers can enjoy spectacular views across the Brisbane Water and the Central Coast.

“This project is about connecting our community, expanding our connection to our beautiful waterways and providing a gathering place for our whole community to enjoy.”

NSW Rural Fire Service crews have moved into a new station at Catherine Field, marking a significant milestone for the brigade and a major investment in community safety across Sydney’s rapidly growing southwest.

The new station replaces the previous station which had served local volunteers and the community for several decades.

The $3.3 million station provides volunteers with a contemporary, purpose-built facility designed to support training, operational readiness and emergency response well into the future.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib, NSW Rural Fire Service Commissioner Trent Curtin and Member for Leppington Nathan Hagarty today toured the new station and met with volunteers.

The facility features three fire truck bays, dedicated training and meeting spaces, modern amenities including changerooms and bathrooms, and improved operational facilities to support the brigade’s membership and diverse emergency response role.

This financial year, more than $34.5 million has been invested to upgrade 28 RFS stations and Fire Control Centres, out of a wider $716.4 million investment in the RFS.

The latest project to be completed is the new Namoi Gwydir Fire Control Centre (FCC) in Narrabri, which includes co-located, multi-agency Emergency Operations Centre and dedicated mitigation crew facilities.

Minister Dib toured the nearly $13 million centre in April, ahead of its opening today.

Catherine Field Brigade members have now commenced transitioning into their new station.

Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib said:

“This new station is a significant investment in community safety and will provide local volunteers with the facilities they need to train, prepare and respond effectively to emergencies.

“Catherine Field is one of the fastest-growing areas in Sydney, and we’re making sure that emergency service infrastructure keeps pace with that growth.

“The Minns Labor Government is proud to deliver this project and ensure local NSW RFS members have modern infrastructure to continue protecting their community safely and effectively.”

Member for Leppington, Nathan Hagarty said:

“It’s great to have the brigade home in Catherine Field where they can continue to operate from the heart of the community it has protected for generations. 

“The Catherine Field Brigade has a proud history of serving the local community and responds to a wide range of incidents each year, including bush and grass fires, structure fires, motor vehicle accidents, storm damage and other emergencies.  

“As Leppington and the surrounding suburbs continue to grow, the Catherine Field Brigade will remain a vital part of our community, helping keep local families, homes and businesses safe.”

NSW RFS Commissioner Trent Curtin said:

“For decades, Catherine Field Brigade members operated from the former station on this site, serving their community through countless emergencies. While that station served the brigade well, it had reached the end of its operational life and no longer met the needs of a growing brigade.

“The new station is an important investment in the future of emergency services in this area, providing modern facilities that will support training, operational readiness and volunteer wellbeing.

“This station is not just an investment in infrastructure; it is an investment in our volunteers and the vital role they play in keeping their communities safe.”

The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its promise to build a new Penrith Stadium, with the Western Grandstand now reaching its highest point, the new stadium is rapidly taking shape.

This milestone signals that the structure has reached its full height and that the project is firmly on track for the 2027 NRL season.

More than 1,100 workers have been working on the new beating heart of Penrith, delivering essential local jobs and keeping construction activity flowing through the Western Sydney economy.

With the grandstands now in place, the stadium’s shape and scale are taking form. Fans can now see the steepness of the stands, which will significantly improve sightlines to the field. Whilst the much loved hills will continue to bookend this new Western Sydney stadium.

The western grandstand will deliver:

• modern media and broadcast facilities
• upgraded player amenities, including changerooms purpose-built to host both women’s and men’s matches, as well as recovery pools
• corporate suites and flexible function spaces suitable for events year-round
• expanded kitchen and back-of-house facilities to support major events
• more food and beverage options throughout the venue
• increased toilet facilities across the precinct.

These upgrades will help cement Penrith Stadium as a premier destination for professional sporting and entertainment in Western Sydney.

Over the coming months, construction will focus on continuing fit out of the grandstands, as well as completing the roof installation over both the eastern and western grandstands.

For more information visit: Penrith Stadium.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said:

 “We came into government committed to rebuilding Penrith Stadium, and with the grandstands now reaching their highest point, local families can see that commitment becoming reality. 

“This location has brought our community together for generations and has seen our mighty Penrith Panthers bring home many trophies. 

“The Minns Labor Government is working hard to deliver for Penrith and the wider region, supporting families to live, work and enjoy life in Western Sydney.

Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said:

“The new Penrith Stadium will be the beating heart of Penrith, a true sporting and entertainment hub that has been built by Western Sydney, for Western Sydney.

“Topping out the western grandstand is a major milestone and proof that the Minns Labor

Government is delivering on its commitment to deliver a brand new stadium, after almost a decade of inaction from the former Government.

“This isn’t just a new venue, it’s thousands of local jobs, better facilities for women’s sport, and a premier sport and entertainment destination that will help grow Western Sydney for decades to come.”

Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown said:

“Penrith Stadium is a cornerstone of our community, and it’s exciting to see it reach these new heights.

“Every milestone we reach brings us closer to a stadium that reflects the pride of Penrith and its growing role as a major sporting and cultural hub for the region. 

“This new stadium is set to attract visitors, create jobs, support local businesses, and give our community a place it can be proud of.” CEO, John Holland Group, Nick Miller said:  

“Our team is really proud to be delivering this fantastic, modern, multipurpose stadium facility for the NSW Government and the people of Western Sydney. 

“Today’s topping out is a great milestone and a tribute to everyone who has worked on the project so far, including many local contractors and suppliers.”

The NSW Liberals and Nationals will bring back the Regional Seniors Travel Card if successful at the 2027 election.
 
The Regional Seniors Travel Card will provide eligible seniors in regional NSW with a $250 prepaid card for fuel, taxis, and pre-booked train or coach tickets.
 
NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane said despite receiving more than 22,000 signatures on a petition to save the Regional Seniors Travel Card, Labor ignored regional voices and cut it anyway.
 
“One of Labor’s first actions when coming to government was to cut cost of living support relied upon by thousands of people across NSW. We know that with the increasing cost of fuel people are increasingly looking at ways to save, and we know that the Regional Seniors Travel Card will provide hip pocket relief,” Ms Sloane said.  
 
NSW Nationals Leader Gurmesh Singh said NSW is an incredible place to live, but there is no doubt the distance and isolation is a challenge especially for our seniors.
 
“An elected Liberals and Nationals Government will reinstate the card and ensure the most vulnerable members of our communities are not left without the support they deserve again,” Mr Singh said.
 
Established in 2020 by the former Liberal and Nationals Government, the Regional Seniors Travel Card saw more than 1.3 million people access more affordable transport before the program was axed by Chris Minns and Labor.
 
Shadow Seniors Minister Kevin Anderson said seniors living in the regions have fewer transport options than those in the city and deserve support to get to medical appointments, groceries, or connect with friends and family.
 
Shadow Regional Transport and Roads Minister Paul Toole said Labor’s scare campaign against the card will not be tolerated.
 
“This card is all about making daily life easier by helping ease the cost of living for regional seniors,” Mr Toole said.
 
President of the Grafton Senior Citizens, Brian Hall said members welcome the announcement that NSW Liberal and Nationals Government would reinstate the Regional Seniors Travel Card.
 
“For many seniors in regional communities, particularly pensioners, the rising cost of living is placing significant pressure on household budgets. The $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card helped ease that burden by assisting with essential travel costs,” Mr Hall said.
 
“Unlike people living in metropolitan areas, regional seniors often need to travel considerable distances to access medical appointments, specialist health services, shopping and other essential services. We simply don’t have the same services or public transport options on our doorstep.
 
“The return of the Regional Seniors Travel Card would provide practical support to older Australians living in regional NSW and help reduce the financial strain faced by many seniors on fixed incomes.”

An elected Liberal and Nationals Government will ensure that regional NSW gets its fair share of infrastructure funding with a Regional Infrastructure Guarantee of 25 per cent.
 
Essential infrastructure across regional NSW has fallen into disrepair after just three years of the Minns Labor Government.
 
Major roads are either closed, open in one direction, or too dangerous to drive on. In 2025, the NRMA estimated the regional road funding backlog was almost $3 billion; and that’s just council roads.
 
In 2026, the Auditor-General found that Labor used the Regional Roads Fund to upgrade metropolitan projects. The report found two projects were originally funded through the Urban Roads Fund and did not improve economic development in regional NSW.
 
Labor has refused to invest in critical water upgrades across regional NSW resulting in brown drinking water from taps and countless boil notices.
 
Our health infrastructure is crumbling, and Labor have kicked regional projects like the Albury Hospital down the road. Delays and maintenance issues are key features of Chris Minns’ infrastructure agenda.
 
NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane said the Regional Infrastructure Guarantee will improve access to clean drinking water across NSW, improve road safety, and allow regional villages, towns and cities to reach their potential.
 
“Our Regional Infrastructure Guarantee will mean towns in regional NSW will get their fair share. When it comes to hospitals and schools, water infrastructure, roads rail and bridges, we won’t see the regions left behind,” Ms Sloane said.

NSW Nationals Leader Gurmesh Singh said a quarter of all people in NSW live outside Greater Sydney, Newcastle, and Wollongong.
 
“All regional NSW asks for is a fair share, and under our government, that is what they’ll get,” Mr Singh said.
 
Shadow Minister for Infrastructure Natalie Ward said the Minns Labor Government has no vision for our state, and we are seeing this through their neglect of regional NSW.
 
“Regional NSW is the backbone of our state’s economy. If trucks can’t transport the essentials across our state and if regional workers can’t get from A to B, the economy stops moving,” Mrs Ward said.
 
“The NSW Liberals and Nationals have a vision to build for the future, and that vision starts with ensuring the regions get their fair share of infrastructure investment.”

An elected Liberal and Nationals Government will fund a $300 million biosecurity and control program for the coordination and management of feral animals to protect our critical primary industries sector and conserve our environment.
 
Agriculture contributes approximately $25.5 billion per year to the NSW economy.
 
The sector is one of NSW’s most productive and important industries, yet farmers face a system weighed down by excessive regulation, rising costs, and decisions made far from regional communities.
 
Our record plan includes:

• Improved on-ground action and local coordination across all tenures with more boots on the ground;
• A shift to five-year funding for pest animal control programs, in line with the Natural Resources Commission’s recommendation;
• Increased funding for control programs, meaning more pigs are killed;
• More and better traps;
• Trial of a targeted bounty scheme for feral pigs;
• Aerial shooting over more country for longer periods;
• Thermal imaging and drone technology to detect and track pigs;
• Exclusion fencing to protect environmental and agricultural assets;
• Support for baiting, shooting and trapping programs;
• Increased legal requirements for public land managers to manage pest animals;
• More targeted research for biological and other novel controls;
• Establishing permanent regional rapid response teams to target outbreaks before populations expand.

NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane said invasive species and biosecurity threats have become commonplace under Chris Minns and Labor.
 
“I’ve seen first-hand the devastating impact of feral pigs on the farming sector, eating new-born lambs, damaging water sources, fences and pasture, and raiding agricultural crops,” Ms Sloane said.

“Without urgent action on biosecurity, our agricultural industries are at serious risk.”
 
NSW Nationals Leader Gurmesh Singh said under Labor’s watch, feral pigs and other invasive species are running rampant.
 
“Through commonsense measures, we are committing to reducing the number and impact of feral pigs across NSW,” Mr Singh said.
 
“Put simply, this investment means stronger biosecurity and less pigs.”
 
Shadow Minister for Agriculture Brendan Moylan said farmers are sick of reviews, reports and roundtables that end up gathering dust on Minister Moriarty’s shelf on Macquarie Street.
 
“We know feral pigs are causing enormous damage to crops, livestock and the environment. The time for talking has passed, it’s time to act, and that’s what we will do,” Mr Moylan said.
 
Shadow Minister for Environment Jacqui Munro said protecting and enhancing our high-value biodiversity starts with reducing invasive species that threaten native ecosystems.
 
“Australian wildlife and habitats are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of hoofed animals such as feral pigs and deer,” Ms Munro said.
 
“Regional landholders are some of our most important environmental stewards. By working with them, this plan delivers practical, on-the-ground solutions to manage invasive species, improve agricultural productivity and reduce environmental harm.”
 
Invasive Species Council CEO Jack Gough said invasive species are the number one driver of animal extinctions in Australia and one of the greatest threats to Aussie rivers and landscapes.
 
“Numerous reviews have found that pest management in NSW is unstrategic, short term and underfunded. This needs urgent change,” Mr Gough said.
 
“This $300 million boost is a serious proposal that means more boots on the ground and eyes in the field dealing with this worsening problem.
 
“The proposal to increase the legal expectations on public land managers for feral animals is also an important recognition that many crown land managers are failing to protect the environment and communities from feral animals.”