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Today, community leaders, experts and advocates joined NSW Minister for Women to discuss lived experience of menopause and perimenopause, and the importance of supportive workplaces.

In the lead up to World Menopause Day on 18 October, the NSW Government hosted this discussion panel, which featured:

• renowned menopause advocate Em Rusciano
• Dr Sarah White, CEO of Jean Hailes for Women’s Health
• Professor Elizabeth Hill, Deputy Director, Australian Centre for Gender Equality and Inclusion at Work
• Karen Willis OAM, Gender Equity Officer, Unions NSW

The panel discussed lived experiences of menopause and perimenopause in all areas of life, including women who experience menopause earlier than the average age of 51 due to medicine or surgery.

It covered the importance of addressing employee stigma, creating safe and inclusive workplaces, increasing manager awareness, as well as sharing initiatives on improving women’s overall health and wellbeing.

With more than three quarters of working women in Australia affected by perimenopause and menopause symptoms, this event is part of the Minns Labor Government’s work to raise awareness around this important women’s health issue.

The government provides several resources to support women and workplaces navigate the menopause transition, including the Menopause and Perimenopause Toolkit – a central resource containing information to support women, families, workplaces and health professionals.

It is easily accessible, gives women and employees confidence, enhances their understanding of treatment, and supports their autonomy by offering practical strategies for everyday challenges and managing symptoms at work. It includes:

• A downloadable menopause symptoms checklist, translated into eight languages, easy read and tailored for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women.
• Menopause videos that explain the symptoms of menopause and how they impact day-to-day life. Translated videos are also available.
• Employment resources for managers and employees.
• A podcast series exploring common symptoms and experiences.
• Guides for partners and families.

To learn more visit: Perimenopause and menopause toolkit

For women experiencing severe and complex menopause symptoms, the NSW Government has set up four Menopause Hubs around the state, with a multi-disciplinary team of specialists to provide holistic support. The Hubs are networked to a number of referral sites across New South Wales, improving access to specialist care. To learn more about menopause services, go to: Menopause services.

Minister for Women and Seniors, Jodie Harrison said:

“Menopause is a natural part of life, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood and under-discussed health transitions.

“This is despite the fact that most women – around 83 per cent – report at least one menopause symptom that affects their work. These symptoms can affect women’s lives, careers and retirement.

“This World Menopause Day, we’re creating space for open conversations, practical support and recognition of the diverse ways menopause affects women across New South Wales, particularly within the workplace.

“We need to continue the conversation about the impacts of menopause and make sure women are empowered to speak about it and access the appropriate supports.”

Dr Sarah White, CEO of Jean Hailes for Women’s Health, said:

“Jean Hailes’ National Women’s Health Survey found that 17 per cent of women aged 45 to 64 take an extended break from workforce participation due to illness. Menopause is a significant factor in this decision. We need to empower women with practical, evidence-based solutions so we don’t lose the incredibly valuable skills, knowledge and experience that women in midlife bring to the workplace.”

Em Rusciano, perimenopausal advocate and keynote speaker:

“Perimenopause hit me in my late 30s – much earlier than I ever expected. I thought it was a ‘later in life’ problem, but instead it’s been a brutal, seismic shift I was utterly unprepared for. And that’s exactly why I’m talking about it now: because menopause has been buried under shame and silence for generations. Puberty and pregnancy are resourced and respected; menopause deserves the same. Saying it out loud is how we peel back the shame and push the systems to finally catch up.”

The Minns Labor Government is planting the seeds for a new wave of primary production manufacturing across regional NSW, unveiling a prospectus designed to harvest the economic benefits of the growing plant-based protein sector.

This prospectus is part of the Government’s plans to strengthen regional economies, build new industries and drive jobs and investment.

The prospectus is aimed at metropolitan and international food manufacturers and is designed to encourage them to consider regional NSW as a base for their operations.

The prospectus highlights the competitive advantages regional NSW has including:

• Access to premium raw commodities suitable for plant-based protein food and beverage manufacturing with the ability to scale and meet growing demand
• Consumer market access with regional NSW ideally positioned and able to deliver goods to 81 percent of Australia’s domestic market overnight
• Skilled workforce with relevant educational backgrounds, export-ready ports, and affordable industrial land.
• Research and development ecosystem that actively encourages collaboration between researchers across universities, DPIRD, CSIRO, Government and agribusiness

The Prospectus also identifies five key regions particularly suited to plant-based protein manufacturing:  Riverina Murray, New England North West, Central West Orana, North Coast and Hunter Central Coast.

Advantages of these regions are identified in the “NSW regional location profiles” in the prospectus at Invest Regional NSW. 

The prospectus will be launched today in conjunction with AltProteins 25 conference in Sydney.

Plant-based protein manufacturing is the process of turning crops such as chickpeas, soybeans, lentils and grains into high-protein food products like meat alternatives, protein powders, dairy-free drinks and snacks without using any animal products.

The global population is set to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, meaning agricultural and food production will need to increase by up to 61 per cent.

Regional NSW produces millions of tonnes of plant protein crops each year, offering ideal conditions for manufacturers with strong market access, a skilled workforce and world-class research.

Developed by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development in partnership with Investment NSW, the prospectus also showcases government programs supporting industry growth, innovation and streamlined approvals for investors.

To view the NSW Plant-Based Protein Manufacturing Prospectus, visit: Invest Regional NSW. 

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:

“With more than 4,500 food and beverage manufacturing businesses and high-quality research and development facilities we have the skills and the infrastructure to turn high-quality crops into premium plant-based protein products.

“Regional NSW offers the ideal combination of resources and advantages, from efficient transport networks and export-ready ports to skilled workforces and affordable industrial land, creating a compelling case for investors and manufacturers.

“This prospectus is about building on those strengths to grow jobs, drive innovation and ensure NSW captures its share of a rapidly expanding global market for healthy, sustainable food.”

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“Trade is a key contributor to our economy and by backing innovative industries like plant-based manufacturing, we’re securing NSW’s place in the future of food.

“For government and industry alike the prospectus outlines the opportunities and benefits of investing in regional NSW and invites collaboration, attracts investment, and sets the tone for long-term success.

“This prospectus is a powerful tool for showcasing NSW’s strengths to the world, demonstrating our vision, our capabilities, and our commitment to sustainable growth whilst providing investors with clarity and confidence they need for opportunities.”

University of Sydney Professor of Legume Biology and Molecular Genetics Professor Brent Kaiser said:

“We’re seeing a major shift in how people think about food, from what they eat to how it’s produced. This is being driven by multiple factors, including changing dietary needs, and increasing awareness of health, sustainability, and climate in response to future population growth.

“By 2050, we’ll need to increase global agricultural crop calorie production by around 47–61% just to keep up. That’s a huge pressure point on the production of sustainable protein sources – the development of plant-based protein foods offer a big part of the solution.

“New South Wales is already an agricultural powerhouse. We have a $20 billion sector producing a lot of wheat, canola, legumes and horticulture products and more.

“The real value is transforming these commodity-driven products into value-added foodstuffs. We can add value here by transforming these crops into high quality, plant-based food and beverage products.”

Ben Furney Flour Mills CEO Sarah Furney said:

“Regional centres like Dubbo, where we produce flour and specialty milled products, offer the perfect environment for innovation and growth in the plant-based protein manufacturing space.

“With immediate access to grain supply, skilled labour and transport infrastructure, it’s benefits like these that make regional NSW an ideal base for advanced food manufacturing and allow businesses like ours to compete in a growing market.”

“Looking to the future, Ben Furney Flour Mills is investing in cutting-edge packaging and warehouse systems, expanding its Textured Vegetable Protein product line and continuing to grow its regional workforce.

“With a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and export growth, the company is positioning itself as a pioneer in alternative proteins and value-added food manufacturing.”

Sydney turned gold on Monday night as Diwali celebrations lit up the city, with the Opera House sails glowing in tribute to the Festival of Lights.

The lighting of the sails is part of the NSW Government’s annual Diwali event – first held in 2011 – at the Museum of Contemporary Art, bringing together 200 community members, faith leaders, and dignitaries.  

The evening was a vibrant celebration of colour, culture, and connection.

Diwali, or Deepavali, is celebrated across New South Wales by Hindu, Sikh, Jain and some Buddhist communities, and which signifies the power of light over darkness and good over evil.  

These communities continue to contribute immensely to New South Wales, where their positive impact across multiple areas of life enriches all of us.

Premier of NSW Chris Minns said:

“The symbolism of Diwali couldn’t be more relevant in our multicultural society than right now.

“One of Diwali’s messages is that good triumphs over evil, to come together in joy and unity, working together to overcome darkness and division.  

“On Monday night, we lit the sails of the Opera House in honour of Diwali and the communities that celebrate it.  

“The evening served as a reminder of NSW’s vibrant multiculturalism. and how celebrations like Diwali bring all different people and communities together, in a spirit of joy and unity.”

Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said:

“Diwali brings light, joy, and togetherness. It’s a time to honour tradition, celebrate community, and share in the warmth of connection.

“NSW is proud to celebrate alongside our communities and sends its warm wishes to all who mark this beautiful occasion.

“Diwali celebrations will be happening across the state, from Harris Park, Parramatta, Blacktown to Queanbeyan and Newcastle, and we encourage everyone to come along to celebrate.”  

Sydney’s train network is now less reliable than ever, leaving commuters stranded, frustrated and late. Under the Minns Labor Government, one in every ten trains has been late for almost two years straight.
 
Despite three budgets, three reports and two separate reviews, the Minns Labor Government has failed to fix the basics.
 
The latest figures obtained by the NSW Opposition through Budget Estimates show infrastructure-related defects on the rail network hit record highs between April and August this year. June alone saw 39,634 faults, followed by 38,932 in July and 38,912 in August.
 
While the former NSW Liberals and Nationals Government delivered world-class, transformative infrastructure that has changed the face of Sydney forever, Labor has shown no progress on what they deliver or do.
 
Piggy-backing on the hard work of the former government does not make you an originator. It shows a government with no ideas, no drive and no capacity to deliver its own vision for NSW.
 
Only the NSW Liberals and Nationals have the track record and the know-how to get NSW building again.
 
These figures expose a government that has chosen political spin over performance. With a Labor-appointed mate as the NSW Secretary of Transport, it stands to reason that Sydney Trains operates on a PR footing rather than a delivery footing.
 
Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said Labor’s obsession with image has replaced real management.
 
“Chris Minns promised better transport but has only delivered delays. Families are waiting longer because Labor is focused on PR, not performance. They inherited a world-class network and turned it into a reliability crisis,” Mr Speakman said.
 
Shadow Minister for Transport and Roads Natalie Ward said the Minns Labor Government puts politics before passengers.
 
“The Minns Government talks about accountability but delivers excuses. With a Labor insider running Transport, the focus is media management, not commuter outcomes. Sydney Trains has become a PR machine while commuters pay the price,” Ms Ward said.
 
The NSW Opposition is calling on the Minns Labor Government to prioritise investment in maintenance, reliability and performance to restore confidence in Sydney’s transport network and deliver the service commuters expect in a global city.

As students and teachers settle back into classrooms, the Minns Labor Government is copying the Coalition’s homework by falsely claiming Labor built the schools across Western Sydney to which they are returning.
 
The Premier and Acting Education Minister put out a media release this morning saying the area was “neglected” under the former government, when in fact more than $2 billion was invested in 50 new and upgraded school projects before the 2023 election.
 
Some of the projects Labor is trying to take credit for includes Darcy Road Public School, Carlingford West, Cumberland, Girraween, Melrose Park, Parramatta East, Rydalmere, Telopea, Wentworth Point and Westmead, which were all funded and approved by the Liberals and Nationals.
 
Piggy-backing on the hard work of the former government does not make you an originator. It shows a government with no ideas, no drive and no capacity to deliver its own vision for NSW.
 
Only the NSW Liberals and Nationals have the track record and the know-how to get NSW building again.
 
Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said the Government has no ideas, no drive and no capacity to deliver its own vision for the state.
 
“The Minns Labor Government is claiming credit for projects it did not start, that were funded by the former government that believed in building for the future. You don’t earn credibility by cutting ribbons on someone else’s work. You earn it by delivering your own,” Mr Speakman said.
 
Shadow Education Minister Sarah Mitchell wished all students well for Term 4 and said they shouldn’t be distracted by Labor’s constant lies.
 
“Parents, students and teachers deserve transparency and honesty and should be concerned by the fact the school infrastructure pipeline has dried up under this government. It’s all good and well to bombard people with media releases, but what’s more important is ensuring there’s a strong future for education in NSW,” Mrs Mitchell said. 
 
Member for Winston Hills Mark Taylor said Darcy Road Public School sits right in the heart of his electorate, and every parent knows it was the Coalition that made the project a reality.
 
“Too often Labor’s ‘facts’ and figures don’t add up, but its media spin can’t hide the truth.  It’s the Liberals and Nationals that have the track record and the know-how to get things building again instead of delivering empty slogans,” Mr Taylor said.
 
Member for Epping Monica Tudehope said families want less talk and more things delivered.
 
“This desperate announcement today is a classic case of smoke and mirrors and shows a government completely out of its depth and running out of ideas,” Ms Tudehope said.
 
Member for Ryde Jordan Lane said in the Ryde electorate locals can see right through this performance.
 
“The projects Labor lists were already locked in and funded by the Liberals and Nationals and things have slowed to a crawl in the past two years under this do-nothing government,” Mr Lane said. 

The Minns Labor Government is continuing its mission to build a safer New South Wales and crack down on crime, with the official reopening of the historic Kiama Police Station today.

Following the temporary closure of the station from 27 April to 2 September 2025 to undergo works, today marks another step in building community confidence and giving police the tools they need to keep people safe.

Works include essential roof and interior repairs, including the replacement of roof sheets and guttering, the removal of damaged skylights, mould remediation, repainting and new carpeting.

Kiama will continue to be serviced 24-hours a day by the Lake Illawarra Police District with officers patrolling in fully equipped police vehicles that function as mobile police stations.

These patrols ensure round-the-clock coverage for the community and surrounding areas, backed by specialist units and intelligence-based deployments as needed.

This investment in Kiama is part of the Minns Labor Government’s broader plan to rebuild the NSW Police Force and strengthen policing across the state.

After more than a decade of neglect, we’re focused on delivering the resources, support and reforms needed to attract new recruits, retain experienced officers and give police the tools they need to keep communities safe.

The former Liberal-National Government had no plan for police recruitment, no plan for police retention and sent wages backwards for more than a decade. Thousands of experienced officers left the force as a result.

We are working hard to rebuild the NSWPF and create safer communities. While there is more to do, that work includes:

• Delivering a once-in-a-generation pay rise for police officers
• Establishing an historic scheme to pay recruits to train, resulting in a 70 per cent increase in applications to join the NSWPF
• Establishing the Be a Cop in Your Hometown program
• Establishing the Professional Mobility Program to incentivise experienced officers from interstate and New Zealand to join the NSWPF.

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said:

“The Kiama Police Station has stood the test of time and remains a much-loved part of this beautiful town.

“Face-to-face interaction with police is important for many people, and this building provides just that. It stands as a place of connection for the community and complements the outstanding work of officers across the Lake Illawarra Police District.

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to backing our police with the safe workplaces, facilities and resources they need to keep communities right across the South Coast safe.”

Member-elect for Kiama Katelin McInerney said:

“The Kiama Police Station is part of the fabric of our town, and it’s fantastic to see this historic building back open and serving the community.

“These works mean our local police have a safe and clean workplace, and our community continues to have a welcoming, accessible point of contact.”