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The NSW Government has today taken an important step towards achieving net zero by 2050, with the release of a new net zero emissions policy for heavy road and rail freight.

The Towards Net Zero Emissions Freight Policy focuses on reducing the carbon footprint created by heavy road vehicles and rail freight. Freight accounts for 25% of total transport greenhouse gases in NSW, and with demand projected to rise by 34% by 2061 the time to act is now.

The new policy will see the NSW Government work together with industry to support the transition to low and zero emission technologies, and to ensure our transport network is ready to adapt as technology and solutions evolve.

The first step will see a 2-year trial to give extra mass zero emission heavy vehicles, which weigh more due to their batteries, access to the state road network. This means the industry can invest in the technology without sacrificing the payloads that underpin the freight business.

An online comparison tool has also been developed to support the transition, providing a free resource for the freight industry to source accurate information on the cost and environmental benefits of low and zero emission vehicles.

The Towards Net Zero Emissions Freight Policy is a significant step towards reducing emissions in the transport sector, with the NSW Government working to remove barriers to accelerate uptake, while balancing the freight sector’s challenging operating environment.

Premier Chris Minns said:

“This is an important step towards achieving net zero, while working constructively with industries.

“Reducing freight emissions requires a genuine partnership between government and industry. We’re always going to need a freight sector to get the essentials from A to B, so we need to make sure our freight industry is sustainable over the long term.”

Minister for Transport Jo Haylen said:

“Many freight operators are natural innovators and are already investing in low emission technologies.

“This policy means that the government is able to support industry to continue to invest in new and emerging technologies and reflects our joint commitment to reduce freight emissions.

“This isn’t just about cutting emissions and protecting our environment, it’s also about strengthening our economy through driving innovation, creating jobs and increasing competitiveness.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“The NSW Government recognises the unique challenges for regional, rural and remote freight operators in achieving net zero. By working directly with industry we will be able to support them in accessing this innovative technology and ensure regional operators can access the benefits of the transition.”

With hot weather predicted across NSW for the week ahead, fire agencies have signalled the start of the fire danger period across most of the state with a call to households to prepare.

Today marks the official start of the 2023-24 bushfire season in areas including Greater Sydney, the Central Coast, the Illawarra and the Central West. This follows weeks of unseasonably warm weather that has kept NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) firefighters on high alert.

The RFS has responded to more than 2,000 bush and grass fires across NSW in September alone, as firefighters prepare for what is predicted to be a warm and windy summer.

Due to the conditions today nine total fire bans are in force across NSW with further bans likely this week.

The statutory Bush Fire Danger Period (BDFP) begins for most local government areas (LGAs) today. Thirty-eight LGAs have already been in this danger period for at least a month, including 11 that entered it earlier than usual due to warm and dry conditions.

Firefighting personnel and volunteers across the state continue to train for fire and emergency response, but communities are reminded that they have a role to play in bushfire preparedness as well.

Residents are urged to undertake simple measures such as downloading the Hazards Near Me NSW app, checking the RFS websitelaunch, having a plan in place if a fire approaches (even if it is knowing whether to stay or leave early), and carrying out the following around your home:

• Trim overhanging trees and shrubs.
• Mow grass and remove the cuttings. Have a cleared area around your home.
• Remove material that can burn around your home, such as door mats, wood piles and mulch.
• Clear and remove all the debris and leaves from the gutters surrounding your home.   
• Prepare a sturdy hose or hoses that will reach all around your home.

As a result of the prolonged wet weather across NSW, around 25 per cent of planned hazard reduction work was completed up to July this year. While more work is needed, the RFS and other agencies have made progress in hazard reduction treating more than 40,000 hectares since the beginning of July.

The onset of hot, windy and dry conditions is expected to affect further hazard reduction as the window to undertake burns begins to close.

To assist in preparation the NSW Government has invested $9 million in a Chinook helicopter, the first of its kind to be permanently based in Australia. With the capacity to carry up to 10,000 litres of water or retardant this summer, the Chinook will increase the RFS’s aerial firefighting capabilities and will lessen our reliance on aircraft borrowed from overseas.

The statutory BFDP commences on 1 October 2023 and runs through to 31 March 2024. Nine LGAs will commence BFDP on 1 November and these include Albury, Berrigan, Coolamon, Greater Hume, Junee, Lockhart, Wagga Wagga and Snowy Valleys.

Bush Fire Survival Planslaunch and information on preparing your property and family are available on the RFS websitelaunch.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:

“The NSW Government is committed to ensuring our firefighters are prepared and well-resourced for the fire season ahead. I want to thank the community for their understanding as RFS crews have conducted vital hazard reduction work in recent weeks. They have been able to treat some areas that have not seen hazard reduction in years.”

“We are taking the threat of this fire season seriously. We have undertaken vital hazard reduction burns before the bushfire season commences and we have added the Chinook helicopter to our already impressive aerial firefighting fleet.”

“The RFS and other agencies are doing all they can to prepare, but it is incumbent on communities to do their bit as well. Everyone should take steps to understand the fire risk in their area and make sure they have a fire plan in place, even if it is just knowing whether to stay or leave early.”

“I thank all our RFS volunteers and emergency service personnel for the work they do in protecting communities across the state and thank residents and landowners for the efforts they will put in to preparing themselves, their families and property.”

Commissioner of the RFS Rob Rogers said:

“The fire activity over recent weeks is likely to be a prelude of what we can expect to see this fire season. After years of wet weather and floods, we need the community to focus again on the risk of bushfires.”

“Our firefighters are out on the ground doing everything they can to mitigate the risk of fire but preparation is a shared responsibility and we need property owners to do their part, too.”

“There can never be a fire truck outside every home, so people need to have a plan in place if threatened by fire. Make sure your whole family knows whether you will stay and defend your home or will leave early – and if so, where you will go.”

Fire and Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner – Strategic Capability, Megan Stiffler said:

“Especially over the holiday period, if you’re planning to travel be aware of the risk of fast-moving grass fires. Before you leave, check the weather forecast and fire danger ratings for that area and have a plan to leave should a grass or bushfire take hold.”

“If you’re camping you should only light fires in designated fireplaces or cleared land and not leave these fires unattended. If a Total Fire Ban is declared you must completely extinguish your fire before the ban comes into force. Also remember to completely extinguish all fires before you leave an area or go to sleep.”

Home buyers and businesses can look forward to lower energy bills, with new sustainable building (BASIX) energy standards now in effect after extensive engagement with the building sector.

The NSW Government’s Sustainable Building State Environment Planning Policy (SEPP) offers developers and homeowners a wide choice of measures to achieve the new building standards.

Building Sustainability Index – or BASIX – standards were introduced in 2004, and last increased in 2017, to improve the energy and thermal performance of homes, providing better comfort, and energy and water efficiencies.

The new changes include:

• Raising thermal performance standards up to 7 stars as defined by the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS)
• Increasing emission reduction requirements by 7 to 11 per cent – depending on location and dwelling type; and
• Introducing mandatory assessment and reporting of building material emissions for every new home.

The new standard cuts thermal energy use by at least 20 per cent and will save homeowners on power bills. The changes can save considerable amounts of energy helping to make new homes more comfortable, particularly in the hotter areas of the State during summer.

Feedback gathered through extensive consultation before and since the SEPP was announced in August 2022 has helped to make sure the standards are cost-effective and minimise disruption to the building industry.

New homes already under contract before 1 October would be exempt from new sustainable building (BASIX) standards until 30 June 2024.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“These improved energy standards will provide significant cost savings for households on their electricity and gas bills.

“New homes built from 1 October onwards stand to save an average of almost $17,000 in energy bills over the lifetime of a standard 25-year home loan.

“Builders can use a wide range of options to meet the new standards – they can install more insulation, improve the performance and location of windows, select a more energy-efficient hot water system and install 3-star reverse cycle air-conditioning systems.

“Energy sustainability and modern construction improvements have come a long way over the last 15 years and it’s time we set new industry standards to help NSW achieve its target of reaching net zero target by 2050.

“The new BASIX standard is the very least we can do to produce modern houses equipped to withstand heat and cold.

“In a national first, the SEPP also introduces new sustainability measures, including new energy and water standards, for non-residential development like offices, libraries and schools, which will be responsible for 85% of all non-residential emissions by 2050.”

“Western Sydney was the hottest place on earth on some days last summer. The changes required are frankly the least needed to provide decent modern homes.

Gary Rake, CEO Australian Building Codes Board said:

“These increased BASIX standards provide benefits for young families, who could otherwise get trapped with a home that has a west-facing bedroom that is too hot for their young children to sleep in during summer. This means they would need to run the air conditioner more or spend money to add ceiling fans later.

“It’s also important to note that is a move from 6 Star to 7 Star, we’re not starting from zero. Our average cost analysis for Sydney was $11/sqm ($2,200 for a 200m2 house). Simple and affordable upgrades such as the installation of ceiling fans or better insulation can help a home meet the new standards.

“This improvement will be great for the people of NSW. New homes will be more able to withstand extreme weather conditions while providing a permanent improvement to the value of a house. The initial investment will retain its value when the house is sold. It also saves money for the homeowner or renter along the way through lower energy bills and improves comfort.

The NSW Government will undertake a review of retail trading laws on Anzac Day, to consider whether retail stores should remain closed for more of the public holiday.

Currently, traders such as supermarkets and fashion retailers are required to stay closed until 1pm on Anzac Day under the Retail Trading Act 2008.

Certain businesses are automatically exempt from the rule, such as pharmacies, petrol stations, markets, cafes and takeaway restaurants.

There has been debate in recent times about whether Anzac Day is being appropriately recognised and what, if anything, should be done to ensure all Australians have the opportunity to take part in commemorations.

Anzac Day marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War, landing in Gallipoli in 1915, and is one of Australia’s most important occasions.

The day is marked by a number of traditions, including dawn and sunset services, veteran marches, and wreath laying ceremonies.

Trading restrictions allow workers and business operators the opportunity to participate in commemorative and community events and pay their own respects.

Restrictions currently differ amongst Australian jurisdictions, with retail outlets open from early afternoon in some states (including NSW), closed all day in other states, while no restrictions are enforced in both territories.

The Government invites interested parties to share their views on the changes to trading hours on Anzac Day. This will help inform the government’s decision.

People and groups can upload a written submission through the NSW Government Have Your Say websitelaunch or via email to anzacdayretailtrading@customerservice.nsw.gov.aulaunch.

The closing date for submissions is 5pm, 20 October 2023. 

Minister for Industrial Relations, Sophie Cotsis said:

“I am looking forward to hearing from business groups, unions, RSLs and other stakeholders about how they feel about this potential change.

“We want to hear whether retail workers and other parties would appreciate a greater opportunity to commemorate Anzac Day in NSW.”

Hundreds of young women and their children in South Western Sydney will benefit from a $9 million investment aimed at improving their long term safety, resilience and wellbeing.

The NSW Government has partnered with the not-for-profit and private sector on a collaboration to provide early intervention services to support pregnant women and mothers under 25 and their children.

Minister for Families and Communities Kate Washington launched the service, Village Connect – A hub for parents, with partner agencies including health and wellbeing provider Sonder, Karitane and Uniting NSW.ACT.

The service integrates three key elements including Sonder’s 24/7 support app which is an easily accessible digital platform for information, as well as personal guidance via chat or phone.

The app diverts young parents from crisis situations, with trained professionals available 24/7.

Karitane and Uniting NSW.ACT will match clients with more complex needs to more intensive and tailored supports to address challenges faced by young parents.

Together, these services provide a holistic approach to meet a family’s needs when they arise and as their circumstances change.

The model, known as the Investment Approach for Social Impact Strategy (IAFSIS), is aimed at improving the lifetime outcomes for young parents and their children.

The Department of Communities and Justice will work closely with the Department of Education and NSW Health to deliver program outcomes and ensure sufficient wraparound supports are available.

A successful evaluation of the IAFSIS model may see it replicated across NSW.

Minister for Families and Communities, and Minister for Disability Inclusion, Kate Washington, said:

“It takes a village to raise a child and this initiative is bringing the village together to deliver support to young mums when they need it most.

“This innovative collaboration between the NSW Government, Sonder, Karitane and Uniting is designed to help young mums be the parent they want to be.

“We are collaborating to empower families by giving them the support they need during the difficult early days, so they stay strong, healthy and safely together.”

Advocate for Children and Young People, Zoe Robinson, said:

“This investment is a welcome step forward in supporting young parents and their children to thrive.

“The benefits of wrap around supports for these young families, will be evident for years to come.”

The NSW Government is investing $5 million over four years to support children and young people who have lost loved ones through homicide.

Grace’s Place is the world’s first residential trauma recovery centre providing tailored support for children impacted by violent crime.

It was named in honour of the late Grace Lynch, who became a strong voice for victims of crime following the murder of her daughter Anita Cobby.

Based in Doonside in western Sydney, Grace’s Place provides accommodation, counselling, and support for up to 12 children and their carers from NSW and across Australia.

Grace’s Place is managed by the Homicide Victims Support Group (HVSG), a critical service providing information and training to the public, police and professional bodies about what is required to support the needs of family members affected by homicide.

Minister for Families and Communities, and Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said:

“Grace’s Place is leading the nation, caring for children and young people who’ve seen the worst of humanity.

“Children who’ve lost a parent in the most horrific circumstances need intensive, holistic support and care.

“The NSW Government is backing Grace’s Place so traumatised children and young people get the support they need to heal and have hope for a brighter future.”

Homicide Victims Support Group Executive Director Martha Jabour said:

“Grace’s Place will be available for family members and their children 24/7.  No longer will police from the NSW Police Force have to find a place of respite and security for children at a crime scene. A phone call will allow us to look after the children left behind after these horrific crimes to get assistance in a safe and caring environment.

“Grace’s Place will be a beacon of hope for children confronting the horrors of homicide.

“Children who come to Grace’s Place will get help in dealing with the violence they have seen, heard, and felt. We will be able to help them process the death of someone they love in a domestic homicide surrounded by counsellors, support staff and their families.

“We are so pleased that the Government is helping us to make such a difference to the survival of children from a very young age.  We will have specific programs, therapy strategies and counselling programs to help children from the ages of 3 to 18 years of age.

 “NSW leads the way in helping children impacted by the horror of homicide, children from all over Australia are welcomed to come to Grace’s Place for assistance.”

MP for Blacktown, Stephen Bali said:

“Children impacted by the loss of a parent in tragic circumstances need a trauma focused approach to support and care.”

“Grace’s Place, through the dedication and vision of Martha Jabour, provide innovative and valuable care and support.”

“I applaud the Minister and the NSW Government for their investment and for supporting these children and young people.”