Category: NSW News

More paramedics, more nurses and more doctors will be joining the NSW health system including almost 70 new paramedic interns from today.

It comes as 24 NSW public hospitals have either achieved or are in the process of implementing safe staffing ratios in their emergency departments, with the NSW Government announcing yesterday that Campbelltown Hospital had been the latest to complete its rollout.

The NSW Government has also recruited more doctors for the bush, and will soon commence its campaign inviting junior doctors to join the NSW health system.

Paramedics

NSW Ambulance will today welcome 67 new paramedic interns and 6 new paramedic inductees following an official ceremony at the State Operations Centre, Sydney Olympic Park.

They join almost 600 new paramedics who have entered the service since the beginning of the year.

The new recruits come from a range of backgrounds and experiences, including Rylie Muirhead who was inspired to join NSW Ambulance after being a carer for her mum and experiencing frequent interactions with paramedics, and Carissa Johnson who is following in her paramedic father’s footsteps.

The 67 paramedic interns will be posted across NSW to complete the on-road portion of their 12-month internships, before taking permanent positions in metropolitan and regional areas.

The 6 paramedic inductees, who previously worked as paramedics interstate or overseas, will be posted across metropolitan and regional locations in NSW for nine weeks, prior to becoming registered paramedics with NSW Ambulance. 

Safe staffing in emergency departments

Campbelltown Hospital became the latest hospital to achieve safe staffing ratios, the government announced.

It joins 9 other NSW public hospitals to complete the rollout of safe staffing ratios, including:

• Gosford
• Liverpool
• John Hunter
• Nepean
• Royal North Shore
• Royal Prince Alfred
• Tamworth
• Tweed
• Westmead Children’s

This is in addition to the 14 NSW public hospitals which are in the process of implementing safe staffing ratios, including:

• Port Macquarie
• Lismore
• Coffs Harbour
• Bankstown
• Wollongong
• St George
• Wagga Wagga
• Orange
• Westmead
• Blacktown
• Hornsby Ku-ring-gai
• Sutherland
• Concord
• Prince of Wales

Rural doctors

The NSW Government will also welcome more doctors to boost the regional health workforce.

The Rural Generalist Single Employer Pathway (RGSEP) supports future rural generalists in their training across both primary care and hospital settings, through a length-of-training contract which allows them to keep and accrue entitlements across both settings; as well as receive the same pay and conditions as their hospital trained counterparts.

Last year, the program recruited 29 trainees across regional local health districts, joining a broader cohort of 142 working in regional NSW.

Positions for the 2026 clinical year are available in Far West, Illawarra Shoalhaven, Hunter New England, Mid North Coast, Murrumbidgee, Northern NSW, Southern NSW and Western NSW LHDs.

Applications for the Rural Generalist Single Employer Pathway program open on 15 July and close on 5 August 2025.

Junior doctors

Junior doctors from Australia and abroad are being encouraged to become part of the country’s leading public health system, with the 2025 NSW Health Junior Medical Officer (JMO) recruitment campaign opening next Tuesday, 15 July 2025.

NSW Health is inviting junior doctors who have completed their first two postgraduate years of medical practice to apply to develop their skills in the country’s largest and most advanced public health system.

Junior doctors are encouraged to consider roles in rural and regional areas, with incentive packages available for those looking to support these communities and gain experience in a different setting.

Junior Medical Officers provide essential frontline medical care to the millions of people who use health services across the state.

Those recruited will start in their new roles at the beginning of the 2026 clinical year and will be offered positions in a range of specialties including general medicine, intensive and emergency care, pain management, psychiatry, pathology and more.

Rebuilding the health workforce

The Minns Labor Government is rebuilding an engaged, capable and supported workforce, by:

• Saving 1,112 nurses which the Liberal Government planned to sack;
• Abolishing the wages cap and delivering the largest wage increase to healthcare workers in a decade;
• Supporting our future health workforce through providing them with study subsidies;
• Investing $274 million to deliver an additional 250 healthcare workers at upgraded hospitals left with inadequate staff by the previous government;
• Deploying 500 regional paramedics to the bush; and
• Bringing more health workers to country NSW through the Rural Health Worker Incentive Scheme.

Minister for Health, Ryan Park:

“From day one, we said that our top priority was to rebuild a capable and supported health workforce.

“We abolished the wages cap, undoing a decade of wage suppression; rolled out safe staffing ratios; recruited more paramedics; and brought more health workers out to the bush.

“Under the Minns Labor Government, the NSW health workforce is experiencing the most significant structural reform in its history.” 

NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan:

“These new paramedics have learned to think fast, act fast, and to deliver the clinical expertise they have learned.

“Today, they are graduates – but from tomorrow, they are clinicians ready to think clinically, treat confidently, and care completely.

“With every call, assessment and intervention, these recruits will become part of a patient’s journey.”

paramedic intern Rylie Muirhead:

“As a child observing paramedics tend to my mum, I was inspired by their compassion and kindness.

Being part of a patient’s journey through healthcare will be very rewarding”

paramedic intern Carissa Johnson:

“To be a paramedic and continue a family legacy is the culmination of a long-held ambition.

The training has been intense but fun, and I am looking forward to putting my skills into practice”.

The Minns Labor Government is partnering with the Ricky Stuart Foundation to deliver the John Fordham House in South Jerrabomberra, a new best practice accommodation home for people living with a disability.

$5.14 million is being invested as part of the Government’s ongoing work to build a better New South Wales, with greater opportunities, inclusion and understanding of peoples living with a disability.

The House will be made up of private living spaces with indoor and outdoor areas including a breakout room, kitchen, living, dining, courtyard and a carers office with live in facilities.

The home will include design features that ensure an accessible home including wider corridors, and will be completed with fittings, fixtures and finishes specifically designed to ensure safety.

Residents will be encouraged to engage in their local community and grow their networks by participating in local events, sports, social activities and by working locally.

The project will be led by the Ricky Stuart Foundation which has demonstrated experience in the design, development and delivery of disability accommodation and support projects, having constructed Ricky Stuart House in 2016 and Emma Ruby House in 2018, providing local families with access to state-of-the-art disability respite care and accommodation.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to making NSW a more inclusive and accessible place for people with disability. As part of this commitment, the Government last year announced the largest investment in accessible housing in the state’s history — a $5.1 billion package to deliver 8,400 new social homes, all of which will meet National accessibility standards.

The Ricky Stuart Foundation was created in 2011 by former Kangaroos and NSW Blues halfback and now Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart and his wife Kaylie.

Following their daughter Emma’s autism diagnosis at age 11, Ricky and Kaylie became aware of the lack of awareness, services and support for families in similar situations. Having experienced firsthand the challenges of raising a child with autism, Ricky and Kaylie knew more needed to be done to support local families.

The project has been named in honour of Ricky’s mentor and manager, the late John Fordham, who is remembered for his legacy of dedication across many charities including the establishment of the Head and Neck Foundation and work with the Cauliflower Club.

For more information, go to: www.rickystuart.org

Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“This is a fantastic initiative which will help improve quality of life and economic independence for people living with disability.

“The home will provide inclusive accommodation to help residents build skills, independence and social connection as well as much-needed peace of mind for families worried about safety and security for their loved ones.”

Minister for Disability Inclusion, Kate Washington said:

“Everyone deserves a place to call home — a home that supports independence, inclusion and connection. This project is a great example of how we can create spaces that truly reflect the needs of people with disability and help them thrive in their communities.

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to building a more inclusive NSW, where people with disability are supported not only to live well, but to belong.”

Local Member for Monaro, Steve Whan said:

This is such a fantastic project for South Jerrabomberra, and I know it will mean a lot to many local families. Everyone deserves to feel safe, supported and connected with their community, and that is exactly what John Fordham House will offer to those who access the facility.

I’ve seen the difference that the Ricky Stuart Foundation has made through its other accommodations, and I’m proud to see that kind of care and commitment coming to our region.

John Fordham House will give families peace of mind, knowing their loved ones have access to the right support in a caring space that has been designed with care and dignity at front of mind. I’m thrilled that the NSW Government is backing this important work.”

Chairperson and Founder of Ricky Stuart Foundation, Ricky Stuart said:

“Emma’s journey to independent living has taught us so much about what young people need to thrive. John Fordham House is built on that experience. It will give others the same opportunity, a safe and supportive home where they can grow, feel proud of who they are and be part of their local community.”

“The $5.14 million commitment from the NSW Government means we can get on with delivering the promise we made to local families. This is about more than building a home. We are creating a blueprint for supported living that puts dignity, inclusion and community at the centre. I’m proud we’re doing that right here in Queanbeyan.”

The Albanese and Minns Labor Governments are creating safer communities for women and children impacted by domestic and family violence by boosting access to an early intervention program which aims to build resilience in families and stop the cycle of abuse.

Under the National Partnership Agreement for Family, Domestric and Sexual Violence Responses 2021-30, stage two of the Safe and Strong Families program will be delivered in an additional 16 sites, with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) providing culturally safe services in ten locations across New South Wales.

Stage one rolled out in late 2024 with 11 ACCOs delivering the program in 10 priority locations.

Funded with $13 million under the National Partnership Agreement, Safe and Strong focuses on supporting both victim-survivors of domestic and family violence and their children as victims in their own right.

The program is a crucial entry point for victim-survivors to receive early family and domestic violence support, and recognises that children who experience family violence need tailored support.

Case workers help develop personal, family and community level strengths and capacity to increase individual and family safety. This includes counselling, education and skills training, Indigenous social participation, information/advice/referral, intake/assessment, material aid, mentoring/peer support, and supported playgroups.

Importantly, Aboriginal-led, trauma-informed and culturally safe strategies recognise the importance of culture, connection to Country and the role of men’s and women’s business in responding to and healing from family violence.

Service providers are encouraged to work with victim-survivors and their children for as long as required to achieve positive outcomes.

Since service commencement, stage one Safe and Strong providers have supported about 77 families and 200 individual clients.

Locations for delivery of Safe and Strong were selected using domestic violence crime and child protection data, to identify areas of the highest need.

Federal Minister for Social Services Tanya Plibersek said:

“The Albanese Labor Government wants Australia’s children to grow up safe and supported in their families, communities and culture.

“Early intervention programs are key in the fight against domestic and family violence, helping to stop violence at the start. And we know the best programs are those developed by community for community.

“The next stage of the Safe and Strong program builds on existing work to address the drivers of violence and provide tailored First Nations-driven solutions and supports to victim-survivors.

“Ending domestic and family violence is going to take all of us working together with frontline services and out whole community. That’s why we’ve doubled funding for frontline services to ensure families and children experiencing violence can access the supports they need.”

NSW Minister for Families and Communities, Kate Washington said:

“Children who experience violence in their homes carry that trauma with them and without the right support, it can shape the rest of their lives.

“That’s what this program is all about — stepping in early, wrapping the right supports around children and families at risk of, or experiencing, violence; so they can recover, rebuild and thrive.

“The NSW Government is investing in programs like Safe and Strong because we want to support families to stop the cycle of abuse.”

NSW Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said:

“The Minns Labor Government recognises the need to respond to the impacts of domestic and family violence on Aboriginal people.

“We know the best way to close the gap is by Aboriginal people shaping and driving outcomes for Aboriginal people.

“Having Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations run the Safe and Strong program it ensures that women and children escaping domestic violence can receive healing in a culturaly safe space and while feeling connected to country.”

NSW Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said:

“The NSW Government recognises the urgent need to do more to meet the needs of children and young people who experience domestic and family violence and break the cycle of intergenerational violence.

“Safe and Strong Families delivers just that with its child- and family-focused approach to providing early intervention and support services that treat children as victim-survivors in their own right.

“Women and children who are impacted by violence and abuse deserve to live free from violence and the fear of violence.”

General Manager of the Youth Family and First Nation Languages Service Division at Regional Enterprise Development Institute (REDI.E) Kevin Jones says:

“As an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation with a long-standing history of delivering vital services in Walgett, REDI.E is proud to have secured the Safe and Strong Families funding to strengthen our work addressing domestic and family violence in both community and school settings.

“This funding allows us to continue working in close partnership with the Department of Communities and Justice, local Aboriginal governance groups, schools, and the broader community to create a safer, stronger future for the families of Walgett.

“Importantly, this funding will also enhance the school-based support services REDI.E already provides—ensuring culturally responsive, early intervention and support continues to be accessible for those who need it most.”

Senior Program Manager at Anglicare Sydney Lee-Anne Page said:

“Anglicare is deeply committed to supporting families, particularly those impacted by domestic and family violence.

“The Safe and Strong funding provides a vital opportunity to enhance our services and deliver targeted, compassionate, holistic support.

“Through this initiative, we aim to create safer, stronger futures for children and families across the Cumberland community.”

Support:

If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero / 000.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, call the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 for free counselling and referrals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN.

Barangaroo, Darling Harbour and The Rocks are transforming into a Winter Wonderland bursting with free fun this July.

Whether you love music, art, dance or Christmas there’s something for everyone.  

Barangaroo, has already kicked off the activity hosting Nocturne, a free four-week concert seriesat thePier Pavilion on from 6pm every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night from 26 June to 19 July.

With no tickets required people of all ages can come along to enjoy a program of world-class music performed by talented Sydney musicians under the stars at a spectacular waterfront location.

Over in Darling Harbour, the Alpine Activity Zone is stirring up a flurry of activity including craft workshops, kids karaoke and an Amazing Arctic Race where teams can complete for a trophy!

Running from 10 – 13 July kids can enjoy snow globe making and sparkly slime all in the spirit of winter fun.

The Rocks areproviding Aussies with a taste of European holiday cheer through the Christmas in July Festival. *

Between 11 – 20 July, families, friends, and lovers of Christmas will have the opportunity to stroll down a snow lane to the European themed markets to savour traditional food or purchase charming, handcrafted goods.

Joining the fun at The Rocks from 17 – 20 July is the Bastille Festival. *

Bringing everything from French rosé to raclette, macarons and escargot to tempt festival goers’ tastebuds alongside a slew of free entertainment including live concerts, DJs, dance classes, and more.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“Our Harbourside precincts are the place to be this July for free winter fun.

“From outdoor concerts to Christmas markets, a French cabaret and kids’ holiday activities galore there’s something for everyone.

“Don’t let the cold weather dampen your spirits, rug up and come out to Barangaroo, Darling Harbour and The Rocks to enjoy great entertainment and activities without needing to open your wallet.”

To learn more about what’s happening all year round at:

• The Rocks visit https://therocks.com/whats-on
• Barangaroo visit https://www.barangaroo.com/whats-on
• Darling Harbour visit https://www.darlingharbour.com/whats-on

* a partnered event delivered by BBR Agency. 

With bumper snowfalls and school holiday crowds flooding the Snowy Mountains, the Minns Labor Government is urging drivers to be prepared before heading to the alpine region, warning that too many are arriving under-equipped for dangerous winter road conditions.

Fresh snow and a rush of holidaymakers have driven alpine visitation to new highs this week, prompting the Minns Government to remind travellers that excitement should stay on the slopes, not on the roads.

The stark reality of inadequate preparation has been seen in recent incidents across the alpine region. One vehicle, not equipped with snow chains, slid off an icy road and became stranded in hazardous conditions. Another driver, apparently not adjusting their speed for the conditions, ended up down an embankment after losing control on mountain roads.

These incidents serve as a sobering reminder that if you’re not adequately prepared for the road conditions, it is very easy to end up in trouble when travelling to the snow. What should be a memorable family holiday could become a dangerous situation requiring emergency response.

To help ensure safer roads, the Minns Government has ramped up snow-clearing operations and implemented network management strategies to handle the spike in demand and improve road safety.

As part of the response, motorists are being encouraged to sign up for Transport’s free SMS Alert Service via the Driving in Snow webpage. The alerts notify travellers when car parks are full or when key alpine roads like Kosciuszko Road or Alpine Way are temporarily closed due to hazardous conditions.

A National Parks pass or ski lift ticket does not guarantee road access during closures, meaning public transport or the Skitube may be the only way to reach the snowfields during peak days.

The Government’s popular Snowy Mountains Bus Service is experiencing record-breaking demand, with a 30% increase in passenger numbers compared to this time in 2024.

So far this year, more than 28,000 trips have been made on services connecting Cooma, Berridale, Jindabyne, Perisher, Thredbo, and Bullocks Flat.

More than 3,000 journeys were recorded during the first weekend of the NSW school holidays alone – a surge that has prompted additional peak services every 30 minutes between Jindabyne and Perisher to meet demand.

NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“It’s fantastic to see so many people enjoying our beautiful alpine region, but good snow doesn’t mean good driving conditions. We want the thrills to stay on the slopes, not on icy roads.

“The Minns Labor Government is continuing to invest in transport solutions that prioritise public safety and make it easier for families and visitors to enjoy NSW’s world-class winter destinations.

“The Snowy Mountains Bus Service is making a real difference, especially for people without four-wheel drives or experience fitting snow chains. And fewer cars on the road helps keep those key routes open for everyone.

“Our bus services are playing a crucial role in keeping roads safe and resorts accessible.

“My advice to drivers is to plan ahead, sign up for alerts, and consider public transport, so the only drama you face this snow season is picking between Perisher and Thredbo.”

Jaylah Boney is one of the rising stars of Australian netball—a fierce competitor, a proud Indigenous woman, and a natural leader. At just 18, the Central Coast Heart Premier League player has already represented her nation and state. Hailing from Brewarrina, a small town west of Dubbo, Jaylah brings the strength of her culture to everything she does, on and off the court. “I’m a proud Ngemba Barkandji girl, so that’s all my mob, from out past Dubbo,” she says with quiet confidence. “It means everything to me—not just in sport, but in everything I do. I’m proud of who I am.”

Jaylah’s journey in netball began with family. Inspired by her mum, aunty and cousin, who all played at Cardiff Netball Club in Newcastle, Jaylah picked up a bib and hasn’t looked back since. “I used to watch my mum play every week—being surrounded by family made me want to be a part of it too,” she says. Today, she competes at the elite level in the Netball NSW Premier League for Central Coast Heart and is steadily making her mark on the national stage. In 2024, she represented NSW at the inaugural First Nations Netball Tournament and was selected for the Black Swans team that competed at the Pan Pacific Championships. In 2024, Jaylah was named captain of the Netball NSW First Nations Team – the Waradas, leading her side to a bronze medal at the tournament. “Being captain was really special. I’d say I’m humble, relentless and someone who leads by example. Whether on or off the court, I try to lift up my teammates and stay connected to my culture through everything I do.” Jaylah balances her athletic ambitions with her role working in administration at an Indigenous medical centre. She draws strength from her culture daily—not just through work, but through dance. “Dance is a way we pass down our stories,” she explains. “I started performing at school, then with family, and now we get invited to perform at events. It just grew.”

Jaylah credits netball for shaping her as a person. “It’s made me who I am today,” she reflects. “My attitude’s changed a lot. It never used to be the best, but netball’s taught me resilience, how to bounce back, how to be a better version of myself. I’m really grateful for that.” Her path hasn’t always been easy. Before the First Nations Tournament, she considered stepping away from the sport. But the opportunity to play for her culture reignited her purpose. “That pathway kept me in the game. It meant everything.” As NAIDOC Week 2025 honours The Next Generation – Strength, Vision, Legacy, Jaylah embodies the theme wholeheartedly. “We need to stand up, pass on our culture—not just to others, but to each other. As the next generation, we’ve got to keep doing what we’re doing, and do it together.”

Ten outstanding athletes have been selected to represent their state as members of the Netball NSW First Nations Team – the Waradas – to compete at the 2025 First Nations Netball Tournament.

Returning for the second year, the Netball NSW Waradas will showcase a formidable blend of experience and emerging talent, with eight players backing up from the 2024 tournament. Two exciting debutants-Lily-Louise Walker (Wayilwan & Wiradjuri) and Phoebe Hickson (Dunghutti/Wurundjeri)-will join the squad and bring fresh energy and ambition to the court.

Coach Colleen Mitchell, a proud Worimi woman, is thrilled with the calibre and cohesion of this year’s team.

“This netball group is strong, skilful and fiercely proud. The returning athletes have grown in confidence and leadership, and our two new players fit in seamlessly. I’m so excited to see what we can achieve together-we’re not just representing our culture, we will build on it with every pass, every game,” Mitchell said.

In the shooting circle, Dharawal goal shooter Charlotte Ryan will team up with Wiradjuri’s Jayda Grant (GA/WA) and Kamilaroi/Gamilaroi’s Mia Evans (GA/WA) to provide firepower up front.

Midcourt will be patrolled by Acacia Elers (WD/WA) Worimi/Awabakal, Ellie Stacey (WA/C) Wonnarua, Tahlia Robertson (C/WD) Whadjuk, and Lily-Louise Walker (C/WA) Wayilwan/Wiradjuri, providing speed, skill and composure through the middle.

In defence, Jaylah Boney (GK/GD) Ngemba/Barkandji, Alirah Watton (GD/GK) Gamilaroi, and Phoebe Hickson (GK/GD) Dunghutti/Wurundjeri will stand tall and strong to repel opposition attacks.

All ten athletes are proud graduates of the Netball NSW First Nations Emerging Talent Program-an emerging development initiative designed to support athletes from metropolitan, regional and First Nations communities. Through the program, players receive individual on court technical and tactical netball skills, while also building vital off-court foundations in areas such as women’s health, nutrition and high performance behaviours.

Now in its second year, the First Nations National Netball Tournament has grown into a five-day celebration of Indigenous excellence in netball, bringing together the most talented First Nations players from across the country in a full round-robin competition format.

Mardi Aplin, General Manager – Performance & Pathways at Netball NSW, said the tournament’s growth highlights its importance to the future of the sport.

“Launched in 2024, the tournament marked a historic milestone in Australian netball, offering a national platform to showcase Indigenous talent and accelerate the development of future stars. We’re proud to continue our commitment to this important program.”

That commitment is already yielding results. Following standout performances in 2024, three NSW athletes-Acacia Elers, Jayda Grant and Jaylah Boney-were selected for the national Black Swans team and went on to compete at the 2024 Pan Pacific Tournament.

Netball NSW will also send two talented First Nations umpires-Mark Munnich (A Badge) Yawuru/Gunggandji/Yued from Northern Suburbs Netball Association and Mackenzie Knox (B Badge) a proud Kamilaroi from Narrabri Netball Association -as part of its First Nations development pathway, supporting growth and representation both on and off the court.

As part of the overall cost of sending the team to the event, a $20,000 investment from Netball NSW partner FDC will ensure that every Netball NSW athlete is fully funded to compete. The funding covers costs associated with travel, accommodation, playing kit, and high-performance support.

The 2025 First Nations National Netball Tournament will take place from 20-24 August at Jubilee Park Stadium in Frankston, Victoria.

2025 Netball NSW First Nations Team – the Waradas

Jaylah Boney, Ngemba/Barkandji, Newcastle Netball Association
Acacia Elers, Worimi, Awabakal, Newcastle Netball Association
Mia Evans, Kamilaroi/Gamilaroi, Illawarra District Netball Association
Jayda Grant, Wiradjuri, Wyong District Netball Association
Phoebe Hickson, Dunghutti/Werunjeri, Penrith District Netball Association
Tahlia Robertson, Whadjuk, Sutherland Shire Netball Association
Charlotte Ryan, Dharawal, Randwick Netball Association
Ellie Stacey, Wonnarua, Newcastle Netball Association
Lily-Louise Walker, Wayilwan & Wiradjuri, Newcastle Netball Association
Alirah Watton, Gamilaroi, Dubbo Netball Association

Coach – Colleen Mitchell, Worimi, Ku-Ring-Gai Netball Association
Assistant Coach – Kellyann Huggins, Gomeroi, Maitland Netball Association.

Umpire – Mark Munnich, Yawuru/Gunggandji/Yued, Northern Suburbs Netball Association
Umpire – Mackenzie Knox, Kamilaroi, Narrabri Netball Association

TAFE NSW Tamworth is embracing NAIDOC Week 2025 with a dual investment in culture and skills, as the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to rebuilding TAFE NSW delivers both infrastructure upgrades and the long-awaited return of Aboriginal language training to the region.

After more than five years, the Certificate I in Aboriginal Languages for Everyday Use will be offered at TAFE NSW Tamworth, Quirindi, and Gunnedah, reconnecting local Aboriginal communities with language, identity, and intergenerational learning.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to supporting Aboriginal communities to reawaken and claim languages. Language means everything to communities who have kept their languages alive despite significant barriers, and this inclusion helps ensure they are preserved for the future.

At the same time, the Tamworth campus has undergone an $850,000 upgrade, including an expansion of the welding fabrication bays and significant toilet renovations to improve student amenities and inclusivity in trades training.

The welding upgrade, valued at around $350,000, will accommodate more students in high-demand trades, while the $500,000 toilet upgrade delivers code-compliant and inclusive facilities, including female amenities in a previously male-dominated training area.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said:

“The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its promise to rebuild TAFE NSW as a high-quality, inclusive and community-focused public education provider – right across regional NSW.

“This is Rebuilding TAFE in action. Upgrading infrastructure, restoring vital training, and making campuses more inclusive for every student.

“Through the new TAFE NSW Charter, we’re ensuring TAFE NSW remains a strong, publicly owned provider that meets the needs of its communities.

“Whether it’s expanding access to trade skills or reviving Aboriginal language training, we’re delivering on our commitment to make TAFE NSW a place where culture, opportunity and community come together.

The announcements reflect the 2025 NAIDOC Week theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy”, with the return of Aboriginal language training helping preserve and celebrate cultural identity, while the campus upgrades support inclusive, future-focused learning environments for all students.”

Premier Chris Minns and NSW Government Ministers will head to the Tweed in the state’s Northern Rivers for the Minns Labor Government’s next Community Cabinet.

Community Cabinet provides valuable insights into the diverse needs and opportunities for the different regions across NSW and connects communities with the state’s decision-makers.

The Premier and Ministers will engage with community members and organisations and host a community forum on Wednesday 30 July.

The community forum will include an opportunity for community members to ask questions to the NSW Premier and Cabinet Ministers and raise matters of importance in the Tweed region.

This will be the Minns Labor Government’s third Community Cabinet of 2025 and eighth since forming Government, as they continue work to build a better New South Wales informed by local voices.

Community Cabinets have also been held on the South Coast and the Central Coast as well as in Broken Hill, Orange, Riverstone, East Hills and Penrith.

Community Q&A Forum

The Premier, will be joined by NSW Ministers for a Community Q&A, giving members of the community an opportunity to directly engage with the NSW Government about local matters of importance.

WHERE: Twin Towns Clubs and Resorts, Level 5, 2 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads.

WHEN: 12:00pm-1:15pm, Wednesday 30 July 2025.

NOTE: Registration is required to attend this event.

Members of the community can register by visiting nsw.gov.au/communitycabinet or phoning, 02 9228 5188.

Media can register by emailing bess.graham@premier.nsw.gov.au

Registration is free and closes on Monday 28 July. Pre-registration is required as places are limited.

NSW Premier, Chris Minns said:

“The North Coast, including Tweed Heads have faced a difficult few years, from historic floods, to Cyclone Alfred as well as the threat of fire ants along the Queensland boarder – it is not an exaggeration to say this part of our state is home to some of the most resilient communities in our country.

“Community Cabinets are vital in our work to ensure we deliver solutions informed by local voices, I’m looking forward to hearing firsthand about the opportunities and challenges that are front of mind on the ground.

“I’ve made multiple visits to the region over the past two years, but coming for Community Cabinet is special because it’s not about one or two major issues of the day: it’s about hearing everything.

“Flood preparedness and recovery is high on our radar, and we want to know how that’s tracking, but we also want to ensure we have a deep understanding of all issues that and opportunities that affect the region.”

Minister for the North Coast, Janelle Saffin said:

“I’m pleased to be bringing Community Cabinet to the Tweed to continue strengthening the connection between the government and our passionate residents.

“This event is a chance for the Tweed community to meet with government leaders and help them better understand the challenges, benefits and way of life up here in Tweed.

“Our residents and businesses experience unique circumstances, particularly as a border community, and it’s important for government decisions to reflect and respect those experiences.

“I strongly encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity to meet with the Premier and Ministers and share their perspectives, ensuring their priorities are heard and recognised.”

The NSW Government is encouraging nominations for the 2025 Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government, which recognise the achievements of talented and inspirational women in councils across NSW.

The 18th annual Awards will be presented on Thursday, 23 October during a ceremony at NSW Parliament House, co-hosted by Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig and Minister for Women Jodie Harrison.

The Awards celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of women working and serving in local government, along with successful council programs aimed at supporting female participation.

Nominations are now open for awards covering both metropolitan and rural/regional areas:

• Alternative Pathways Award – a female staff member who is breaking down gender stereotypes
• Champion of Change Award – a general manager or senior manager who has excelled in supporting and encouraging women’s participation at their council
• Elected Representative Award – a female councillor who has advanced the position of female elected representatives
• Employment Diversity Award –a council with a successful program that increases female representation in senior leadership or elected representative roles
• Woman of Distinction Award – a woman who has demonstrated exceptional innovation, integrity and initiative, or who has a positive influence on others
• Young Achiever’s Award – an outstanding female staff member (including trainees and apprentices) aged 25 and under
• Councillor Lilliane Brady OAM Award – winner determined by the Minister for Local Government, to recognise and honour the dedication and tireless work of a female council staff member or elected representative (nominations not required)

Nominations close on Tuesday 19 August and can be made on the Office of Local Government website: https://www.olg.nsw.gov.au/our-minister/ministers-awards-for-women-in-local-government/

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said:

“One of the great joys of being Minister is visiting councils across NSW, meeting the many talented women dedicated to making their local community a better place to live and work. 

“These awards highlight their outstanding achievements, as well as showcase the innovative council programs that support the participation of women in local government.

“I encourage everyone working alongside talented and inspirational women to make a nomination and give them the recognition they deserve.”

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

“Women make exceptional contributions to councils across NSW and these awards are an opportunity to shine a spotlight on those achievements.

“Having worked and served in local government I know there are many wonderful women who contribute to their local community through their involvement in councils.

“It’s important to highlight women’s accomplishments and support female participation in councils to inspire the next generation of local government leaders.”