Category: NSW News

The Minns Labor Government is continuing to deliver safer roads for regional communities, with $24.4 million worth of safety upgrades being funded through the Towards Zero program on a 6.2-kilometre section of the Mitchell Highway at Deep Creek, between Wongarbon and Geurie. The major upgrade will deliver smoother, safer journeys for all road users along a well-known crash hot spot in western NSW.

The extensive upgrade work at Deep Creek is scheduled to start on Monday 10 November and will take up to two years to complete.

Key work includes:

• Widening highway shoulders to reduce the risk of drivers losing control if they leave the road pavement.
• Installing wider centre lines to increase the distance between oncoming traffic and reduce the risk of head on collisions.
• Upgrading gutters and kerbing to improve road durability and drainage
• Improving stormwater drainage to reduce the risk of flooding
• Installing new safety barriers to protect motorists and prevent run off road crashes.

Crash statistics for this section of the Mitchell Highway paint a sobering picture for all road users.

In a five-year period between 1 January 2019 and 31 December 2023, there were five recorded crashes on the section of Mitchell Highway stretching from 1.72 kilometres east of Deep Creek Road to 4.48 kilometres west of Deep Creek Road, Geurie and, sadly, three people lost their lives.

Transport for NSW will advise the community of start dates and any impacts to traffic once all details have been confirmed.

More information on Towards Zero is available on the Transport for NSW website.

Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said:

“As Minister for roads, safety is my number one priority. These upgrades to the Mitchell Highway are a vital investment to deliver safer, smoother journeys on this key regional route.

“The Mitchell Highway carries thousands of locals, tourists and freight operators every day, often travelling long distances at a time through the west of the state.

“The Towards Zero program delivers important road infrastructure on the key routes used most regularly by motorists across the state.”

Minister for Western NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

This upgrade will make a real difference for the Dubbo community and everyone who travels along the Mitchell Highway.”

“We know the 6.2- kilometre section has recorded multiple off road and head on crashes in recent years, highlighting the need for this investment.

“By improving safety and reducing crash risks, we’re helping ensure motorists can get home to their families safely.”

“The NSW Government is investing in safer, more reliable roads to better connect our regions and support local communities.

The Minns and Albanese Labor governments are one step closer to upgrading one of Sydney’s busiest intersections, with a new design unveiled for the $200 million Homebush Bay Drive and Australia Avenue intersection upgrade.  

The new design replaces the existing roundabout with an easy to follow, signalised intersection, complete with additional lanes to ease congestion and keep traffic moving, particularly during peak periods and major events at nearby Sydney Olympic Park.

Following comprehensive traffic and environmental investigations, a layout has been developed that minimises impacts on Bressington and Bicentennial parks while delivering a safer, more efficient connection for everyone who walks, rides or drives through the precinct.

Community consultation on the previously proposed Diverging Diamond Interchange solution was supported by only 25 per cent of respondents due to concerns about the complexity, unfamiliarity and safety of this design.

The Australian and NSW Governments are each investing $100 million in this $200 million upgrade.

Work has now been completed on the project’s Review of Environmental Factors (REF), which evaluates the environmental and community impacts of the revised design.

The community is being invited to provide feedback on the REF and the revised proposal, which has now been progressed to concept design, between 2 December and Sunday 18 January 2026.

The upgrade is set to benefit tens of thousands of people who use this intersection every year, with 5,000 vehicles traveling through the roundabout per hour during peak periods.

The upgrade comes after interim safety improvement work which was completed at the roundabout and Homebush Bay Drive on ramps in December 2024.

This work has led to improved short-term traffic flow and road safety, especially during peak periods and special events.

Work included installing new traffic loop detectors, 12 new roundabout operating signs and advanced warning signs at the roundabout and Homebush Bay Drive off ramps.

A pedestrian crossing was also relocated to a new, safer location on Australia Avenue and upgraded with a pedestrian fence.

This interim investment was delivered to improve safety at this key location while the major upgrade solution is developed, which will also address future growth in the area.

Construction of the major project is expected to start in 2027 and take about two years to complete.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King:

“The Australian Government welcomes this step forward in easing congestion, increasing safety and improving travel times and connectivity to Sydney Olympic Park and Homebush.

“The community has waited for years for a solution to the traffic issues that have plagued this intersection since it first opened more than a quarter of a century ago.

“We have listened to the community and are moving forward with a more traditional and familiar design and the delivery of a much-needed upgrade at this intersection.

“We will continue to work with the NSW Government to deliver significant infrastructure projects that the people of NSW need and deserve.”

NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison:

“The Minns and Albanese Labor Governments are fixing the infrastructure that communities across NSW have waited too long for.

“For the thousands of drivers stuck at this intersection every day, this upgrade means less time in traffic and more time with your family.

“I want to thank Donna Davis and Sally Sitou for their persistent advocacy to push this project forward. Their close connection to community has supported the feedback that has led to this new design.”

Federal Member for Reid, Sally Sitou:

“This is a major win for our community. The upgrade will ease congestion, make it safer for families and improve access to Sydney Olympic Park for events and everyday travel alike.

“I’m proud to see the Albanese Government working hand-in-hand with the NSW Government to deliver the infrastructure that locals in Reid have been calling for. This intersection has been a headache for years, and this project will finally fix it.

“As our local population grows, so too must our infrastructure. This upgrade will future-proof one of our busiest intersections, supporting new homes, local businesses and the thousands of people who visit Sydney Olympic Park each week.”

NSW Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis:

“The population of Homebush has almost doubled in the past decade, placing increased pressure on Sydney’s worst roundabout.

“With additional residential and commercial growth in Wentworth Point, Carter Street precinct and Sydney Olympic Park, along with the influx of traffic to major events and the DFO, a solution needs to be implemented as soon as possible.”   

Barangaroo’s much loved swim spot, Marrinawi Cove, has officially re-opened just in time for summer, after an upgrade undertaken by the Minns Labor Government has taken the popular bay spot to another level delivering a larger swimming area and increased amenities.

A special summer holiday activation will help celebrate the swim spots return with free live music and pop-up shops selling gelato and barista made coffee for people to enjoy alongside their harbour dip in the heart of the city every weekend from Saturday 6 December until March.*

This follows a successful free pop-up music experience last summer which entertained more than 6000 people over the season.

Recently completed upgrade works at Marrinawi Cove include:

• A larger swimming area with up to 150sqm of additional swimming space and a swim length now up to 45 metres
• A new non-slip platform, integrated sandstone stairs, handrails and a ladder for easier access in and out of the water
• A new double outdoor shower
• Increased leisure space for picnics by the water.

These safety and accessibility improvements were made at Marrinawi Cove over the last few months following community feedback.

The upgrade is part of a broader NSW Government initiative to boost accessibility of Sydney’s harbourside precincts so everyone can relax and enjoy our famous harbor and was fully funded by developer contributions.

Marrinawi Cove is a culturally significant spot, as the area was historically used by the Gadigal people for swimming, bathing, canoeing, and fishing for thousands of years.

It is distinct with sculpted and some repurposed sandstone and native flora surrounding the swim spot, creating a serene, natural environment.

For more information visit:  https://www.barangaroo.com/whats-on/events/summer-at-marrinawi-cove

Marrinawi Cove is just one of the many spaces and free activations people can enjoy in our harbourside precincts this summer.

With free concerts at Darling Harbour, a festival at Tumbalong Park and Christmas markets across The Rocks, Barangaroo and White Bay Power Station.

All of our public spaces are sparkling with decorations transforming into a Christmas wonderland for the holiday season.

This is all part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment offering free entertainment in our harbourside precincts and delivering a more festive season packed with more free family fun than ever before.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“Summer is officially here and thanks to the Minns Labor Government Sydney has more options than ever for people to cool off with a quick dip.  The reopened Marrinawi Cove, joining the newly opened Bedlam Bay and soon to re-open Penrith Beach to give more people places to swim close to home.

“At Marrinawi Cove free live music and pop-up gelato and barista made coffee activations will further add to the atmosphere of this incredible harbourside space where Sydneysiders and visitors can enjoy a refreshing saltwater dip right in the heart of the city.

“Beyond swimming there will be free festive fun including concerts and Christmas markets in all our harbourside precincts from The Rocks to Barangaroo and Darling Harbour to deliver a vibrant and cheerful season for visitors and locals alike.”

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“Marrinawi Cove has reopened better than ever and just in time for summer.

“The new larger, safer and more accessible harbourside swimming experience is now open and ready for the community.

“We are focused on building better, more connected communities, ensuring everyone can enjoy this iconic location.

“Marrinawi Cove is set to be a standout destination this summer.”

New figures released from the NSW Health Financial Statements^ show patients and their loved ones are paying more for hospital parking fees under the Minns Labor Government, rising from $51.7 million dollars in 2024 to almost $87* million dollars in 2025.
 
That is an increase of $35.2 million dollars or 68 per cent in just one year.
 
Western Sydney has been hit hardest, paying an extra $6.5 million dollars which is a rise of almost 59 per cent.
 
South Western Sydney rose by 49 per cent and Nepean Blue Mountains by more than 60 per cent.
 
Sydney and Northern Sydney saw increases of 185 per cent and 130 per cent, respectively.
 
Leader of the Opposition Kellie Sloane said the Minns Labor Government is making life harder at the worst possible moments.
 
“We already knew patients were waiting longer under Chris Minns, and now we know they are paying more as well.  People should not be worrying about parking fees when they are walking into an emergency department or sitting with someone they love.”
 
“I want a hospital parking system that is fair, consistent and compassionate, with proper protections for long stay patients, carers and our front-line workers. Patients, their loved ones and staff should feel supported in our hospitals, not squeezed at the door.”
 
“This is blatant hypocrisy from a Health Minister who campaigned on parking fees being a ‘cash cow’ and a ‘cash grab’. He said it before the election, hospital parking fees were a ‘sick tax’, yet he is now happy to take even more money from families who are simply trying to look after the people they love,” Ms Sloane said.
 
The Government needs to explain why parking fee revenue has jumped so sharply and why the biggest increases have fallen on Western Sydney and South Western Sydney. People are already under pressure. The least they deserve is a system that does not punish them for caring.

The restoration of a major wetland in the heart of Byron Bay is part of a $26 million project to reduce the impact of flooding in the tourist destination, as well as keeping pollution away from its celebrated beaches.

In a dramatic transformation, three large retention ponds are the new centrepiece of the 5.5ha Sandhills Wetlands, attracting native birds, animals, residents and tourists alike.

The reopening of the wetlands today (Monday 1 December) celebrates the return of a habitat which had been destroyed by sand mining in the 1960s.

A network of paths connects the site to the town centre, Jarjumirr skatepark and up to Walgun Cape Byron Lighthouse, encouraging nature-based recreation for people of all ages and abilities.

The project is stage one of the overall $26 million Byron Bay Drainage Strategy, which is receiving $11.8m through the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program (NRRRP).

The NRRRP is a $150 million program delivering 36 flood mitigation and resilience projects across seven local government areas (LGAs) impacted by the 2022 floods, funded by the Albanese Government and administered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA).

Byron Shire Council, who are delivering the wetlands and drainage improvement works, also received $6 million from NSW Government Infrastructure Betterment Fund Grant and $3 million from the NSW Government Open Spaces Legacy Grant towards the Sandhills Wetlands project.

The Arakwal Corporation, Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council and NSW Crown Lands also provided guidance in co-designing the project.

The Sandhills Wetlands is one part of the overall drainage project, aimed at reducing the impacts and frequency of flooding in Byron Bay. The new wetlands will collect and hold stormwater runoff from surrounding hills, before it’s slowly released towards Belongil Creek.

Work also has started on increasing the capacity of connecting stormwater pipes underneath the CBD, with stormwater concrete culverts, almost double the size of the existing pipes, being installed. Underneath the railway corridor, the largest culverts will be almost seven metres wide to help reduce the current flash-flooding risk to CBD businesses.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain:

“The reopening of the Sandhills Wetlands is a great example of the Albanese and Minns Governments working together to deliver long-term practical flood mitigation infrastructure for communities across Byron Bay.

“By restoring this vital wetland and upgrading the town’s drainage system, we are helping safeguard local homes, businesses and iconic natural assets from the increasing impacts of severe weather.

“This project demonstrates what genuine partnership with local government and Traditional Owners can achieve, creating a more resilient Byron Bay while enhancing public spaces that locals and visitors can enjoy for generations.”

Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot:

“As your local MP, I’m proud to have delivered $11.8 million in federal funding towards the Byron Bay Drainage Strategy, which includes restoring these beautiful wetlands in the heart of Byron Bay.

“The restoration of the Sandhills Wetlands will have a positive impact on the local environment and wildlife, reduce the impact of flooding on the Byron Bay town centre and improve water quality at Clarkes Beach.

“The improvements also mean locals will also be able to enjoy this space for years to come.”

NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully:

“Restoring the Sandhills Wetlands has helped preserve cultural heritage, bolster resilience and deliver more community space for everyone to enjoy.

“It is a practical demonstration of how we can adapt to deliver both flood mitigation and environmental benefits.

“This is a great result for the local community and visitors which will encourage more people to get out and about and enjoy nature.”

NSW Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper:

“The Minns Labor Government is focused on building stronger communities, and the Sandhills wetlands restoration project will deliver lasting benefits for Byron Bay.

“It’s fantastic to see Crown land transformed into a new emergency services precinct for NSW Police and Fire and Rescue NSW, new community and recreation space, better roads, and real protection against flooding and pollution for one of our state’s most iconic beaches.

“The Sandhills site is a powerful symbol of renewal, bringing together environmental restoration, cultural respect, and community resilience to show what’s possible when we work together for a better future.”

NSW Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin:

“This wetland stands as a powerful example of what we can achieve when we listen, respect and work together.

“Guided by Aboriginal co-design and supported by all three levels of government, we’ve restored a vital ecosystem, created a place for visitors and locals to enjoy, and strengthened our protection against future flooding.

“This is a project that brings our community closer to Country and prepares us for a more resilient future.”

Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye:

“This is an exciting project for Council because it is one of the most significant environmental restoration projects to happen in Byron Bay in recent years.

“Already people are telling me there are more wallabies on and around the site and I am really excited to see the birdlife flourish in this amazing community place which, in the last 18 months, has been completely transformed.

“One of the main objectives of this project was to improve water quality especially around Clarkes Beach and this will have long-lasting benefits for the nearby Cape Byron Marine Park and all the fish, turtles and other marine life.”

NSW Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong will travel to China today, leading a delegation of over 50 NSW businesses and senior NSW government representatives to the 30th NSW–Guangdong Joint Economic Meeting (JEM) in Guangzhou.

The JEM is the cornerstone of NSW’s 46-year sister-state relationship with Guangdong, China’s largest provincial economy, and an important biennial opportunity to meet with senior Guangdong Government representatives to exchange views on bilateral cooperation, including trade.

As part of the mission, the Minister will travel alongside NSW Governor Margaret Beazley and Speaker of the NSW Legislative Assembly Greg Piper to meet with government and industry leaders, attend site visits, engage with NSW businesses and potential investors in Guangzhou, Shanghai and Hong Kong. These engagements will strengthen relationships and create new opportunities for NSW businesses.

The Minister’s mission will include a visit to one of Guangzhou’s leading public hospitals to meet with patients who have received cochlear implants. This follows the 2023 JEM, held in Sydney, which led to a nation-first agreement for NSW-based, global medtech company Cochlear, to supply medical devices across Guangdong’s Greater Bay Area hospitals.

The delegation will also include two recent winners at the NSW Export Awards – NSW Exporter of the Year Southern Star Research and NSW Regional Exporter of the Year Flavourtech.

This mission is an important opportunity to deliver on the objectives of the NSW Trade and Investment Strategy, which sets a bold vision to grow exports by $100 billion, attract $25 billion in investment, and create 30,000 new jobs by 2035.

This mission follows the Australian Government’s patient and calibrated approach to stabilising the bilateral relationship with China, including visits from the Prime Minister, the Hon Anthony Albanese earlier this year, and Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator the Hon Don Farrell, as recently as early November.

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“This mission is about putting the NSW Trade and Investment Strategy into action.

“The NSW–Guangdong Joint Economic Meeting plays a crucial role in our economic engagement, and this year’s 30th meeting is a significant mark of our commitment.

“NSW is a trading state and China is a major trading partner.

“The record number of businesses travelling with me to JEM means our world class offerings in decarbonisation, health and life sciences and food and beverage manufacturing will be on show and ready to grow in the China market.”

NSW Exporter of the Year 2025, Southern Star Research Director and Founder David Lloyd said:

“Being part of this delegation is a tremendous opportunity. The Joint Economic Meeting gives us direct access to government and industry leaders in China, helping us showcase our capabilities and explore new partnerships.

“Strengthening these connections is vital for opening new markets, driving investment, and ensuring NSW businesses remain competitive in a rapidly changing global economy.”

NSW Regional Exporter of the Year 2025, Flavourtech CEO and Chairman Leon Skaliotis said:

“Attending the last Joint Economic Meeting was a turning point for our business — it opened doors we simply couldn’t have accessed otherwise.

“Going back again this year gives us the chance to build on those relationships, showcase how far we’ve come, and explore new opportunities in China’s dynamic market. For us, the JEM isn’t just about trade discussions, it’s about real connections that help our business grow and thrive.”

Cancer survival rates in NSW are at an all-time high, with 73 per cent of people surviving at least 5 years after a cancer diagnosis, up from 71 per cent according to a new report from the Cancer Institute NSW.

The Cancer in NSW Report 2025 highlights the state’s collaborative, world-leading efforts to reduce cancer’s burden and how advancements in immunotherapy, genomics and diagnostics, as well as digital health and artificial intelligence are transforming the way we prevent, detect and treat cancer.

The report shows cancer incidence rates are stabilising and mortality rates are decreasing, with bowel and lung cancers having the greatest decrease in mortality rates over the past ten years.

The report also outlines key efforts underway to reduce inequitable cancer outcomes, with Aboriginal people twice as likely to die from cancer than non-Aboriginal people, and people with the lowest-socioeconomic status 50 per cent more likely to die from cancer than people with a high socioeconomic status.

Initiatives to boost access to cancer clinical trials, including targeted grants for priority populations, are increasing participation. Nearly 3,300 people enrolled in a cancer clinical trial in 2024–25, up from 2,571 the previous year. The number of unique clinical trials also grew from 795 to 858.

Other key initiatives highlighted in the report helping to improve cancer outcomes include:

• $21 million to support research in prevention and early detection, diagnosis, treatment and living well with and beyond cancer
• 15 behaviour change campaigns on anti-vaping and anti-tobacco, breast, bowel and cervical screening and skin cancer prevention
• The introduction of machine reading technology to support radiologists to interpret mammography images, as well as breast density reporting across BreastScreen NSW.

Now in its sixth iteration, the NSW Cancer Plan 2022-2027 is helping guide the state’s cancer control efforts. As the state’s dedicated cancer control agency, the Cancer Institute NSW is working together with more than 80 organisations across government, non-government and community to reduce cancer’s impact and save more lives.

The NSW Government invests around $180 million each year, through the Cancer Institute NSW, to improve cancer outcomes and lessen its impact for people across the state. 

Key insights from the report:

• The 5-year cancer survival rate is 73% (for 2017-21, up from 71% in the previous five year period)
• 55,719 people in NSW are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2025
• 16,241 people in NSW are expected to die from cancer in 2025
• 1 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85
• People living in regional and rural NSW have an 11% increased risk of receiving a cancer diagnosis, and an almost 20% increased risk of death from cancer than their city counterparts
• Aboriginal people are 1.4 times more likely to be diagnosed with cancer and 2 times more likely to die from the disease than non-Aboriginal people
• The most socioeconomically disadvantaged people in NSW are 1.5 times more likely to die from cancer than the least socioeconomically disadvantaged
• The 5 most common cancers expected to be diagnosed by the end of 2025 are prostate, breast, melanoma of the skin, bowel and lung cancer
• The 5 most common causes of cancer death by the end of 2025 are expected to be lung, bowel, pancreatic, prostate and breast cancer
• Overall incidence rates of cancer in people under 50 years-old has risen slightly, with the incidence rate 6% higher in 2023 than in 2014
• 269 children aged 0-14 years are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2025
• 392 adolescents and young adults (15-24 years) are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2025.

Health Minister Ryan Park:

“Cancer is a disease that doesn’t discriminate and has the power to change lives in an instant. While our state’s survival rates rank among the best in the world, collectively cancers remain the leading cause of premature disease related death.

“Our growing and ageing population means the demands on cancer care will continue to rise, so it’s absolutely critical our efforts continue to rise and meet this.

“There’s still a lot more to do, but we’re deeply committed to improving cancer outcomes and addressing the unique needs of our diverse communities, I’m proud to see this highlighted in the report.”

NSW Chief Cancer Officer and Chief Executive Cancer Institute NSW, Professor Tracey O’Brien AM:

“While NSW is recognised as a global leader in cancer outcomes, very few people are untouched by this devastating disease, and we must continue with our efforts to collectively tackle cancer and its profound burden on our community.

“At the heart of this report are the unique perspectives and experiences of people living with and beyond cancer and the world-leading teams of experts and community leaders working together to change the future of cancer.”

The restoration of a major wetland in the heart of Byron Bay is part of a $26 million project to reduce the impact of flooding in the tourist destination, as well as keeping pollution away from its celebrated beaches.

In a dramatic transformation, three large retention ponds are the new centrepiece of the 5.5ha Sandhills Wetlands, attracting native birds, animals, residents and tourists alike.

The reopening of the wetlands today (Monday 1 December) celebrates the return of a habitat which had been destroyed by sand mining in the 1960s.

A network of paths connects the site to the town centre, Jarjumirr skatepark and up to Walgun Cape Byron Lighthouse, encouraging nature-based recreation for people of all ages and abilities.

The project is stage one of the overall $26 million Byron Bay Drainage Strategy, which is receiving $11.8m through the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program (NRRRP).

The NRRRP is a $150 million program delivering 36 flood mitigation and resilience projects across seven local government areas (LGAs) impacted by the 2022 floods, funded by the Albanese Government and administered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA).

Byron Shire Council, who are delivering the wetlands and drainage improvement works, also received $6 million from NSW Government Infrastructure Betterment Fund Grant and $3 million from the NSW Government Open Spaces Legacy Grant towards the Sandhills Wetlands project.

The Arakwal Corporation, Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council and NSW Crown Lands also provided guidance in co-designing the project.

The Sandhills Wetlands is one part of the overall drainage project, aimed at reducing the impacts and frequency of flooding in Byron Bay. The new wetlands will collect and hold stormwater runoff from surrounding hills, before it’s slowly released towards Belongil Creek.

Work also has started on increasing the capacity of connecting stormwater pipes underneath the CBD, with stormwater concrete culverts, almost double the size of the existing pipes, being installed. Underneath the railway corridor, the largest culverts will be almost seven metres wide to help reduce the current flash-flooding risk to CBD businesses.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain:

“The reopening of the Sandhills Wetlands is a great example of the Albanese and Minns Governments working together to deliver long-term practical flood mitigation infrastructure for communities across Byron Bay.

“By restoring this vital wetland and upgrading the town’s drainage system, we are helping safeguard local homes, businesses and iconic natural assets from the increasing impacts of severe weather.

“This project demonstrates what genuine partnership with local government and Traditional Owners can achieve, creating a more resilient Byron Bay while enhancing public spaces that locals and visitors can enjoy for generations.”

Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot:

“As your local MP, I’m proud to have delivered $11.8 million in federal funding towards the Byron Bay Drainage Strategy, which includes restoring these beautiful wetlands in the heart of Byron Bay.

“The restoration of the Sandhills Wetlands will have a positive impact on the local environment and wildlife, reduce the impact of flooding on the Byron Bay town centre and improve water quality at Clarkes Beach.

“The improvements also mean locals will also be able to enjoy this space for years to come.”

NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully:

“Restoring the Sandhills Wetlands has helped preserve cultural heritage, bolster resilience and deliver more community space for everyone to enjoy.

“It is a practical demonstration of how we can adapt to deliver both flood mitigation and environmental benefits.

“This is a great result for the local community and visitors which will encourage more people to get out and about and enjoy nature.”

NSW Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper:

“The Minns Labor Government is focused on building stronger communities, and the Sandhills wetlands restoration project will deliver lasting benefits for Byron Bay.

“It’s fantastic to see Crown land transformed into a new emergency services precinct for NSW Police and Fire and Rescue NSW, new community and recreation space, better roads, and real protection against flooding and pollution for one of our state’s most iconic beaches.

“The Sandhills site is a powerful symbol of renewal, bringing together environmental restoration, cultural respect, and community resilience to show what’s possible when we work together for a better future.”

NSW Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin:

“This wetland stands as a powerful example of what we can achieve when we listen, respect and work together.

“Guided by Aboriginal co-design and supported by all three levels of government, we’ve restored a vital ecosystem, created a place for visitors and locals to enjoy, and strengthened our protection against future flooding.

“This is a project that brings our community closer to Country and prepares us for a more resilient future.”

Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye:

“This is an exciting project for Council because it is one of the most significant environmental restoration projects to happen in Byron Bay in recent years.

“Already people are telling me there are more wallabies on and around the site and I am really excited to see the birdlife flourish in this amazing community place which, in the last 18 months, has been completely transformed.

“One of the main objectives of this project was to improve water quality especially around Clarkes Beach and this will have long-lasting benefits for the nearby Cape Byron Marine Park and all the fish, turtles and other marine life.”

The Minns Labor Government today unveiled a $25 million investment program to boost the growth of agricultural industries across New South Wales, by funding agricultural businesses to embed innovation and productivity enhancements, plus lower operational greenhouse gas emissions.

The new Agriculture Industries Innovation and Growth Program will, through smart investments, deliver significant economic benefits to regional communities by helping agricultural businesses increase production, revenues, and deliver new jobs.

The grants will support the modernisation of NSW’s producers by investing in projects that the business is co-funding, and are ready to go. Projects that will deliver technology and equipment into operations to immediately scale-up production lines or enable new products, or reduce emissions.

This initiative is part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to keep building up the agricultural sector following the Government’s recent announcement that the state’s primary industries reached a historic highpoint of $25.5 billion Gross Value of Production (GVP) over the last year.

The new Agriculture Industries Innovation and Growth Program covers the following:

• Grants of between $500,000 and $4 million for eligible applicants covering businesses, cooperatives, and for-profit organisations operating in the agricultural sector
• Upgrades to on-farm and off-farm processing facilities to improve the value add of NSW agricultural products and enabling the purchase of production equipment and Agtech that will lower emissions.

Examples of the type of projects that could attract the grant funding may include:

• Production of new higher efficiency fertilisers from agricultural waste that improve outputs and deliver improved environmental outcomes
• Installation of equipment that enables the production and packaging of plant-based protein products or new crops
• Equipment to increase production of new feed additives that have been developed and designed to contribute towards reduced emissions in the beef sector
• Construction of production equipment for new future fuels that enables scalability and ability to take product to market
• Purchase of equipment for beverage processing or product packaging that enables new products to reach national and export markets
• Installation of new produce processing technology that reduces wastage and improves output for growers.

The program is part of the Minns Labor Government’s $400 million Regional Development Trust to support smart projects that make regional communities more resilient and deliver local jobs, investments and businesses.

The program aligns with the Investment NSW Trade and Investment Strategy and complements existing NSW Government initiatives such as Farms of the Future (Agtech), and the Net Zero Manufacturing Initiative.

Applications will open on Monday 1 December 2025 and close on Friday 23 January 2026.

For more information, and to view the full program guidelines, visit: nsw.gov.au/aiigp

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“Investing in agricultural businesses is investing in a key foundation of our regional economies and creating new jobs for the future.

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to growing the agricultural sector in NSW by driving its modernisation, and movement to lower emissions, plus scaling up its ability to export.

“We know smart investments in projects ready to go have immediate positive impacts on the business and the local community. The stock and station brokers, truckers, grain handlers, suppliers, grocery store, mechanic, and bakery, all busier with a thriving local economy.

“We need to keep fostering and accelerating our agricultural businesses to become more digital, more efficient and more sustainable so they can ride the volatility of the changing global environment.”

The Minns Labor Government is calling on cemetery operators and communities to help shape the future of cemeteries and memorial parks across the state, with the release of the draft Perpetual Care Framework for public consultation. 

Cemeteries and memorial parks are more than resting places, they are spaces for remembrance, reflection, and community connection. The draft Perpetual Care Framework sets out a plan to ensure these special places are cared for, respected, and accessible for generations to come.

The proposed framework will:

• Provide a clear definition of what is meant by perpetual care
• Provide opportunities to keep cemeteries as vibrant and valuable spaces into the future, even when they have reached full capacity
• Hold cemetery operators accountable for perpetual care and ensure ongoing safe access for families and communities
• Give families certainty that cemeteries will be maintained with dignity and respect, even after they are no longer active
• Manage maintenance costs most effectively through long term planning
• Respect the diverse religious and cultural needs of NSW communities
• Allow for innovative and respectful uses for cemeteries, such as new green spaces, so these valued places can continue to benefit the community in new ways.

The draft Perpetual Care Framework shares real-world examples of what a well-planned approach to perpetual care can look like in practice, citing the Melbourne General Cemetery in central Melbourne, and Camperdown Memorial Rest Park in Sydney as alternative approaches.

Project Cultivate – Melbourne General Cemetery

This initiative has transformed traditional cemetery landscapes into thriving native grasslands, reducing water use and chemical inputs while enhancing biodiversity. It demonstrates how cemeteries can honour memory and contribute to environmental resilience. 

Camperdown Memorial Rest Park

Once a cemetery, this site is now a vibrant public park, showing how inactive cemeteries can be repurposed to serve communities while preserving heritage. 

Have Your Say 

Cemetery operators and communities are invited to provide their feedback to ensure the final framework meets the needs of all and supports a strong, sustainable future for NSW cemeteries.

Feedback can be provided by completing a survey or by emailing ccnsw.regulatoryreform@cemeteries.nsw.gov.au. Responses must be received by 27 March 2026. For more information, visit cemeteries.nsw.gov.au/industry-regulation/perpetual-care-framework.

Minister for Lands and Property, Steve Kamper said: 

“The framework is a major step forward in ensuring cemeteries remain respectful, sustainable, and well-maintained for generations to come. It gives families certainty that cemeteries will be maintained with dignity and respect, even after they are no longer active.

“Perpetual care is about dignity, respect, and sustainability. This framework sets out how operators can plan for the long-term maintenance of cemeteries while embracing innovation and community expectations.”

David Raper, Acting CEO of Cemeteries & Crematoria NSW said: 

“We want to hear from everyone – operators, families, and communities – about what perpetual care should look like. Together, we can respect the past and ensure cemeteries benefit families and communities well into the future.”