Category: NSW News

Experts from across the NSW Government have been brought together under one roof to lead the State’s coordinated, emergency response to the evolving COVID-19 situation.
Starting this week, experts from more than 20 critical agencies including Police, Education and Transport will join NSW Health in the purpose-built operations centre at the Rural Fire Services headquarters in Homebush.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) would allow all arms of government to respond quickly to COVID-19.
“Having all of our experts across many government agencies under the one roof will allow us to respond quickly to this emerging health crisis in a coordinated way,” Ms Berejiklian said.
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said this was another proactive step from the NSW Government to slow the spread of COVID-19
“Embedding Health operations teams with other critical agencies will ensure clear, up-to-date information and communication to action decisions to protect the wider community,” Minister Hazzard said.
The SEOC will be led by Deputy Police Commissioner, Gary Worboys, who said this will be a central hub where experts can monitor the situation in real time and coordinate response efforts.
“The SEOC will be operating 24/7, with the team accessing the advanced technology at RFS headquarters, including live information, intelligence sharing, digital mapping, as well as public information and media broadcasting resources so we can quickly get critical information to the public,” Mr Worboys said.
“COVID-19 is affecting so many parts of our state, from transport to education and business, and it is critical for the SEOC to bring everyone together to share information, develop effective plans and take immediate action.”

A man has been charged for the alleged assault of staff and shoppers at a supermarket in the state’s north yesterday.
About 3.30pm (Tuesday 17 March 2020), police received reports a man assaulted multiple people at a supermarket in a shopping centre on Uralba Street, Lismore.
It is alleged, after becoming agitated when he was unable to find items he wanted to buy, the man pushed his trolley into two women, believed to be aged in their 70s, knocking one to the ground.
He then allegedly pinned a 45-year-old female store attendant against the shelving and punched her in the face and chest.
The store manager and a security guard approached the man and were also allegedly assaulted, before the man was removed from the premises.
The 45-year-old woman sustained bruising and swelling to her left jaw, bruising and swelling to her left forearm, a small laceration to her left forearm, stiffness to her neck, bruising to her chest but declined medical assistance.
The two older women left the store without leaving their details and it’s unknown if they were injured.
Following a public appeal, a 63-year-old man was arrested by officers from Richmond Police District on Nimbin Road, North Lismore and taken to Lismore Police Station.
He was charged with affray, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and common assault.
The man was refused bail and will appear at Lismore Local Court tomorrow (Thursday 19 March 2020).

The NSW Government today announced a major $2.3 billion health boost and economic stimulus package to protect the community and help protect jobs in the face of the COVID-19 outbreak over the next six months.
This package has two key components: $700 million in extra health funding and $1.6 billion in tax cuts to support jobs.
Key elements of the NSW COVID-19 package announced today include:
Health boost

• $700 million extra funding for NSW Health. This will assist in doubling ICU capacity, preparing for additional COVID-19 testing, purchasing additional ventilators and medical equipment, establishing acute respiratory clinics and bringing forward elective surgeries to private hospitals;

Business support and jobs

• $450 million for the waiver of payroll tax for businesses with payrolls of up to $10 million for three months (the rest of 2019-20). This means these businesses will save a quarter of their annual payroll tax bill in 2019-20.
• $56 million to bring forward the next round of payroll tax cuts by raising the threshold limit to $1 million in 2020-21;
• $80 million to waive a range of fees and charges for small businesses including bars, cafes, restaurants and tradies;
• $250 million to employ additional cleaners of public infrastructure such as transport assets, schools and other public buildings;
• More than $250 million to bring forward maintenance on public assets including social housing and crown land fencing;
• $500 million to bring forward capital works and maintenance.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the NSW Government’s package bolstered the health system, cuts taxes for business that employed tens of thousands of people across the State, and would help secure jobs at a very challenging time.
“Our first priority is always the health of the people of this State and looking after their families and jobs,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“This package works hand-in-hand with the recent moves by the Reserve Bank of Australia and the Federal Government. It will provide more resources to help slow the spread of this virus and boost treatment for those people in our community who need it most.
NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the NSW package would help businesses struggling with a once-in-a-generation event.
“The Government stands ready to do whatever it takes to keep people safe and ensure our economy withstands this storm,” Mr Perrottet said.
“Today we are injecting $700 million into the health system and almost $1.6 billion to boost business. In simple terms, this money will help save the lives of loved ones and protect jobs.
“We are supporting business by lowering their costs through tax cuts and fee reductions, and working to boost jobs by funding ready-to-go capital work and maintenance projects as a priority.”
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the Government was doing whatever it took to support front line health workers, and urged people to follow important safety messages.
“Our health workers are doing an amazing job,” Mr Hazzard said.
“This extra funding backs the work of our doctors, nurses, allied health staff, ambulance officers and support staff in the fight to prevent the spread of and prepare for COVID-19.”

From today, Netball NSW wishes to advise that it has adopted the following guidance with regard to all community netball competitions.
To assist with infection control and in the absence of a defined position on community sport from Government, it is the strong recommendation of Netball NSW that all community netball competitions in NSW should be suspended until Saturday 2nd May 2020. This, in our view, includes all activity: playing, training, grading, umpire training etc. – at all levels up to and including Metro League/ Regional League.
However, we note that some of these activities may be subject to a risk analysis on a case by case basis.
While this is obviously an unfortunate disruption to the netball season, Netball NSW believes that a blanket guidance such as this leaves all Associations, clubs, players, coaches, officials and administrators in the state in the same position while we watch developments around COVID-19.
It is important to note that the season is not being cancelled. At this time, the recommended action is seen as a socially responsible position for the netball community in NSW to take.
Netball NSW will continue to monitor the situation on a daily basis. A formal update will be provided on Wednesday 15 April, 2020 (the Wednesday after Easter). This update will include the latest information on competition start dates plus advice on recommencing training etc. If the situation is to change significantly, an update will be provided earlier.
The reason for the guidance applying at the level of Metro League/Regional League and below is purely based on the volume of people congregating at any given time. We note that some associations may consider certain activities could proceed (e.g. training in small groups) due to your own circumstances and where there is a reduced risk.
Specific program-by-program information follows:
State Titles
State Titles have not been cancelled at this stage.
A decision on Senior State Titles (6-8 June) will be made by Wednesday 15 April. Until that time the following key dates remain:
9 April (Thursday) – Senior State Titles entries close
14 April – Senior State Titles late entries close
A decision on Junior State Titles (4-6 July) will be made by Wednesday 13 May. Until that time the following key dates remain:
1 May (Friday) – Junior State Titles entries close
5 May – Junior State Titles late entries close ($500 late entry fee applies)
We understand the planning and commitment required in the lead-up to State Titles. However, given the length of time until these competitions commence it was felt that a decision to cancel at this stage was premature.
Premier League
Premier League is the only level of competition netball permitted to continue to train in the immediate term under this guidance (including Premier League umpires) due to the relatively low number of participants. At this stage, and subject to the update which will be provided on 15 April, the competition will be pushed back at least one week to commence on Wednesday 6 May 2020.
Metro League
The Metro League competition will not commence as scheduled and all training should now cease in line with this guidance. The Metro League competition structure and draw is currently being reviewed and all changes will be communicated at the earliest opportunity. Currently the competition will not commence prior to Monday 4 May, subject to the update which will be provided on 15 April.
Regional Leagues
Regional Leagues with finals pending (West / Central West) are advised to postpone finals until such time as Netball NSW recommends competitions re-commence. Regional Leagues yet to commence (including Hunter) are also advised to postpone their competitions until after 2 May, pending further advice.
Swifts & Giants Academies and Emerging Talent Squads
Due to the relatively low number of participants, the QBE Swifts Academy and the Giants Netball Academy will continue to train, as will the NSW Emerging Talent squads.
Competitions already underway
Netball NSW understands and is aware that there are a number of Association competitions that are currently in progress, such as midweek competitions which run all year round. Netball NSW advises that under this guidance, those competitions should be suspended until Saturday 2 May, pending further advice.
Netball NSW will be here to assist our members when we can confidently move forward with a resumption of all activities.
Please do not hesitate to contact the Netball NSW office if you would like clarification on this guidance, further advice or assistance.

NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard has made an Order under Section 7 of the Public Health Act 2010 to force the immediate cancellation of public events with more than 500 people.
Mr Hazzard said under the planned changes, individuals who fail to comply could face up to six months in prison or a fine of up to $11,000 or both, plus additional penalties for each day the offence continues. Corporations face even harsher fines.
“I urge the community to do the right thing and obey the decisions and advice of the National and NSW Chief Medical Officers,” Mr Hazzard  said.
“But we will be tough if needed, to protect the wider community.”
Mr Hazzard said the Order ensures the new requirements of the National Cabinet are operational immediately after midnight 15 March, 2020.
The NSW Government COVID-19 “War Cabinet” met by teleconference yesterday to endorse the Chief Health Officer’s advice on keeping schools open.
NSW public schools will remain open but with enhanced safeguards including students not being required to attend assemblies and other measures to ensure a focus on increased physical separation.
All Chief Health Officers of Australia believe that school closures should not be recommended at this stage in the pandemic. This decision will remain under constant review to ensure the best outcome for children and young people.
As agreed by the National Cabinet all entrants to Australia, including returning residents and citizens, will be required to self-isolate for 14 days. NSW will continue to support the Commonwealth Government in implementing this requirement. If any individual fails to do so the NSW Chief Health Officer may issue an order to forcibly require compliance. Any enforcement required would be in consultation with NSW Police.
“The spread here has been slowed significantly by the Government’s actions on the advice of health experts, and we will use our legislative public health powers to best safeguard the community,” Mr Hazzard said.

A man from the NSW South Coast has been charged with terrorism offences following a NSW Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) investigation.
The 21-year-old Sanctuary Point man was arrested on Saturday (14 March 2020), and charged with one count of acts done in preparation for, or planning, terrorist acts. This offence carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
The Sanctuary Point man is expected to face Nowra Local Court today (Monday 16 March 2020), and an application will be made to have the matter heard in a Sydney court at a later date.
It will be alleged in court that the man was attempting and planning to purchase or acquire military equipment, including firearms, and items capable of making improvised explosive devices.
The investigation began in February 2020 after NSW JCTT investigators became aware of a number of online posts containing an extreme political and anti-government ideology and began an investigation into potential criminal activity.
Investigators became concerned about the escalating criminal actions allegedly undertaken by the 21-year-old man in the past week and made the decision to execute search warrants on properties and vehicles in Sanctuary Point and the rural locality of Parma – both near the NSW South Coast town of Nowra – at the weekend.
A number of electronic devices, tactical equipment and three soft gel (paintball) firearms were seized at Sanctuary Point. Four registered firearms were seized at the Parma residence, which is the home of an associate of the 21-year-old man. Further inquiries are continuing into the links between the man facing court today and his online and real-world associates.
Australian Federal Police Assistant Commissioner Counter Terrorism Scott Lee said NSW JCTT investigators targeted the criminal behaviour of those arrested.
“The decision to execute these warrants and charge a man was made to mitigate any immediate threat, ensure the ongoing safety of the community and prevent further planning or preparations that could have resulted in a terrorist attack in Australia,” he said.
“The investigation into this matter remains ongoing, but the speed with which it has progressed highlights the professionalism and dedication of the individuals and agencies involved in the JCTT, and their commitment to bringing people to account for their criminal actions.”
NSW Police Force Counter Terrorism and Special Tactics Commander, Assistant Commissioner Mark Walton, said the primary concern of NSW JCTT officers was community safety.
“Our officers have acted swiftly in this case as the behaviour online was of significant concern. I want to reassure the community that there is no ongoing threat, and the NSW JCTT will continue to work together to identify and prosecute individuals involved in these activities,” he said.
“I would appeal to all members of the community to help us do this – if you see something online, report it. Be aware of the online activities of your children. There is no place for violent extremism in our community and we need to continue to unite in condemning this behaviour.”
The NSW JCTT is comprised of members from the Australian Federal Police, NSW Police Force, Australian Security Intelligence Organisation and the NSW Crime Commission.
Anyone with information about extremist activity or possible threats to the community should come forward, no matter how small or insignificant you may think the information may be. The National Security Hotline is 1800 123 400.

The NSW economy will see over $11.6 billion of private investment and 2,400 new jobs under Stage 1 of the NSW Government’s plan to reach net zero emissions by 2050.
Energy and Environment Minister Matt Kean said the plan, the first of its kind in Australia, is all about reducing the State’s emissions in ways that grow the economy.
“Where there are technologies that can reduce both our emissions and costs for households and businesses, we want to roll them out across the State. Where these technologies are not yet commercial, we want to invest in their development so they will be available in the decades to come,” Mr Kean said.
“Almost two-thirds of the private investment under the plan will go to regional and rural NSW, creating job opportunities and diversifying local economies that are doing it tough after the drought and devastating bushfire season.
“Global markets are rapidly changing in response to climate change, with many of the world’s biggest economies and companies committed to reach net zero emissions by 2050. NSW already leads the nation with its economic and investment plans and from today, NSW will lead the nation with its Net Zero Plan.
“Our actions are firmly grounded in science and economics, not ideology, to give our workers and businesses to best opportunity to thrive in a low-carbon world.”
Under the plan, household electricity prices will fall, regional businesses will have access to new technologies and markets, industry will be supported to modernise their plant and increase productivity and consumers will have more information to help them make financially and environmentally sustainable choices.
The plan is financially supported by the landmark $2 billion bilateral agreement between the Commonwealth and NSW Government announced in January 2020.
For more information about the Net Zero Plan Stage 1: 2020-2030 visit https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/climate-change/net-zero-plan

Thirty-two community organisations in NSW have been awarded more than $4 million, to fund local projects that build or upgrade facilities across sport and recreation, arts and culture, disaster readiness and essential community infrastructure.
Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Grants program funds important projects across the state to support community organisations that work tirelessly to create resilient, healthy and connected communities.
“The projects we’re funding will boost equity, social inclusion and participation – making a real difference in people’s lives across NSW,” Mr Dominello said.
“Since 2015, the NSW Government has funded over 380 community projects worth $58 million under the Infrastructure Grants program.”
The program also targets projects that support drought-affected communities and youth, mental health and domestic violence services and, for the next round opening in March 2020, was expanded to accommodate bushfire impacted communities.
A significant number of grants in this round have been allocated to community organisations in bushfire impacted communities.
The grants are made possible by the Clubgrants Category 3 Fund which re-invests profits from registered clubs’ gaming machines into community infrastructure projects across three key areas:

• Arts and Culture;
• Disaster Readiness and Community Infrastructure; and
• Sport and Recreation

A new round of applications for funding opens on 16 March 2020. Learn more at responsiblegambling.nsw.gov.au/funding-opportunities/infrastructure-grants.

The NSW Government is calling on councils, hospitals, universities and other community and industry groups to apply for more than $1 million worth of grants to tackle litter in their local area.
Environment Minister Matt Kean announced two grants, including the first grant aimed at tackling cigarette butts are open to applications until 14 April.
A total of $1.17 million – comprising $670,000 for Round 6 of the Community Litter Grants and $500,000 for the inaugural Cigarette Butt Litter Prevention Grants – is available to councils, businesses and organisations to implement litter prevention projects in their areas.
“Our community groups and councils are fantastic partners to assist with tackling litter. It is local communities who know their litter hotspots and can develop practical and effective solutions,” Mr Kean said.
“More than 200 projects have been funded so far under the litter prevention grant program with incredible results – some projects have recorded up to 80 per cent reduction in litter in their targeted hotspot.
“I want to encourage any community group, council or business that wants to get rid of a litter problem in their area to apply for one of these grants.”
The community grants can be used to fund a number of litter initiatives including community education and engagement, clean-ups, new bins, promoting programs aimed at addressing littering, and strengthening the capacity of environmental groups working in the sector.
“These grants will enable the community to take the action they want to see in their suburbs,” Mr Kean said.
“Cigarettes butts are consistently the most littered item in NSW every year. I look forward to seeing innovative projects to help reduce the millions of butts littered each year and by doing so, cleaning up our environment.”
More information about the NSW EPA Litter Grants program is available at https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/working-together/grants/litter-program

The Netball NSW Premier League is delighted to welcome Origin Energy on board as the official naming-rights partner of the competition for 2020 and beyond.
The Origin Energy Premier League, as it will now be known, is the pinnacle netball competition in NSW, showcasing the best current and emerging talent within the state.
It offers a local, elite platform for players, coaches, officials and administrators – providing bridging opportunities to the Deakin University Australian Netball League and subsequently, Suncorp Super Netball.
This year will be the competition’s fifth season with two additional franchises – Capital Spirit and South Coast Blaze – joining the eight foundation teams: Central Coast Heart, ERNA Hawks, GWS Fury, Manly Warringah Sapphires, North Shore United, Panthers Netball, Sutherland Stingrays and UTS Randwick Sparks.
All franchises will field teams in the Opens and Under 23s Divisions with two sets of champions crowned after 18 regular-season rounds and Finals Series. Over the four years the competition has been running all original franchises have being crowned champions at least once in either the U20/23s* or Opens, highlighting the competitive nature of the league.
BarTV Sports will again be on deck for the 2020 season, and will live stream six games weekly, as well as Finals, on Netball NSW’s social platforms and the competition website.
Origin Energy recently joined the netball family as naming-right partners of the Australian Diamonds and community partners of the game across the country, including NSW. Origin will also support GIANTS Netball as major partners.
Carolyn Campbell, CEO of Netball NSW, said the Premier League was the ideal competition for Origin Energy to get behind.
“The Premier League is the top competition that Netball NSW runs, with many of the players, coaches and officials involved going on to reach Suncorp Super Netball and international level,” she said.
“The teams and organisation invest a huge amount into it and in Origin Energy we have a partner who shares the vision we have for this competition.
“That we are able to expand the number of teams and grow the competition’s footprint after just four years shows how far it has come, and we are delighted to have Origin with us as we take it to the next level.
“Netball has elite pathways, and has done for decades, and they are vital to us maintaining our position as the No.1 sport for women and young girls across the state and country. The Origin Energy Premier League is a key component of those pathways.”
Origin Energy CEO, Frank Calabria said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with Netball Australia to support a much-loved Australian sport and players at all levels across the country – from local clubs right through to the world-leading Australian Diamonds.
“Netball clubs are such an important part of our local communities, and Origin is excited to be working with Netball Australia to support the players, coaches, umpires and volunteers that are the lifeblood of the sport.”
*The Under 23s Division ran as an Under 20s competition from 2016 to 2018.