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Independent Investigation Required

Following dramatic revelations of the potential rorting of the impartiality of the public service in Transport Minister Jo Haylen’s office, the only option for the Government is to refer the matter to the Independent Public Service Commissioner Kathrina Lo.
 
While the Opposition welcomes an investigation, it must be conducted independently. The Coalition Government appointed an Independent Public Service Commissioner to deal with matters such as this.
 
The referral of the matter by the Transport Minister to her hand-picked Secretary Josh Murray is nothing more than an attempt at a cover-up by a Minister who does not think the rules apply to her.
 
A Head of a Department cannot investigate a Ministerial Office that they report to, that is a blatant conflict of interest.
 
While the Minister wants this to appear like a department staff member gone rogue, the facts are:

  • Senior Transport Executives were aware the Transport Minister’s Chief of Staff would be requesting Mr Ash to join the Office on the same day Minister Haylen was sworn in.
  • The Transport Minister’s Office requested Mr Ash specifically, with senior Transport Executives raising concerns regarding his impartiality.
  • Mr Ash’s secondment to her Office was extended at the request of the Transport Minister’s Chief of Staff.
  • The A/Secretary of Transport for NSW Howard Collins raised concerns with her Chief of Staff regarding Mr Ash’s duties and conduct
  • Mr Ash’s Secondment was cut short only a week after initial media inquiries regarding his duties.

This ‘investigation’ is nothing more than an attempt to throw a junior staffer under the bus to protect a Minister.
 
Does any reasonable person think Josh Murray, the Minister’s handpicked Secretary is really going to find the Minister committed any wrongdoing?
 
A controversially Labor appointed Secretary is investigating the Minister who got him the job regarding an operative her office requested doing political activities – It doesn’t pass the pub test. 
 
Department Liaison Officers are at the direction and responsibility of the Minister and their Chief of Staff. Whatever credibility the Transport Minister has left, she needs to do the honourable thing and refer the matter to the Public Service Commissioner.

Government needs to come clean on floodplain modelling

Following revelations that the Planning Minister may have withheld from the Premier a report questioning floodplain modelling, the Opposition is calling on the Government to pause decisions in the North-West Growth corridor and to release the Owens report.
 
Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said that it was concerning if the Government is relying on outdated information to make decisions that affect new housing developments, and that potentially drive up people’s insurance premiums and drive down their land values.
 
“The Planning Minister has questions to answer about the modelling that the Minns Labor Government has been relying on, and whether a report by the former Deputy Police Commissioner Dave Owens APM had been intentionally ignored,” Mr Speakman said.
 
“For most people their home is their largest investment. Decisions like this have a fundamental impact on people’s property and its incumbent on the Government to get these decisions right,” Mr Speakman said.
 
Shadow Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Scott Farlow, called on the Government to release the report from Mr Owens.
 
“Models are only as good as the data that is put into them and if there is a question on the adequacy of the data, then the Government should pause its decisions until the information can be fully scrutinised.”
 
“Dave Owens is a highly respected former Deputy Police Commissioner who has been tasked in the past with the 2019-20 NSW Bushfire Inquiry and the 2017 Independent Northern Rivers flooding review,” Mr Farlow said.
 
“The Minister needs to tell the community if he had provided Mr Owens’ report to the Premier and Cabinet, and if not why not. So that landholders can have all the information, the Minister should publicly release Mr Owens’ report.”

Second man charged over the murder of Zachery Davies-Scott in the Hunter Region 

Homicide Detectives have charged a second man following an investigation into a home invasion and fatal shooting in the Hunter Region last year.

About 10.50pm on Tuesday 27 December 2022, emergency services were called to Traders Way at Heddon Greta – about 20km east of Cessnock – following reports a man had been shot.

NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the man; however, he died at the scene.

He has since been identified as 25-year-old Zachery ‘Zac’ Davies-Scott, known to many in the area as ‘Donnie’.

State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad took carriage of the investigation under Strike Force Roslyn, with assistance provided from officers attached to the Hunter Valley Police District and Northern Region.

Police were told a group of people allegedly forced entry to the Heddon Greta home before Mr Davies-Scott was fatally shot in what is believed to be a home invasion gone wrong.

A 52-year-old woman also sustained minor injuries attempting to fight off the alleged attackers.

Other family members home at the time – including two children, aged 2 and 4, and Mr Davies-Scott’s pregnant partner – witnessed the incident, but were uninjured.

The group allegedly left the scene in a white SUV that was seen travelling on Main Road, Heddon Greta, shortly after the incident.

In February 2023, strike force detectives seized a white 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander from a street in Boolaroo near Newcastle.

One man has already been charged and remains before the courts.

Following further inquiries, about 6am today (Thursday 2 November 2023), strike force detectives – with assistance from Raptor Squad – executed a search warrant in Cessnock where they arrested a 24-year-old man.

He was taken to Cessnock Police Station, where was charged with murder.

The man was refused bail to appear before Cessnock Local Court tomorrow (Friday 3 November 2023).

Investigations under Strike Force Roslyn are continuing.

Dig deep for your local Newcastle & Hunter communities this Christmas

Support The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal, so nobody struggles alone

The Salvation Army is launching their annual Christmas appeal in the Newcastle & Hunter regions in New South Wales, which will help The Salvos support individuals and families in the local community who are experiencing hardship this Christmas.

The rising cost of living, interest rate and rental price hikes has meant that more people have been turning to The Salvation Army for support, making this year’s Christmas Appeal vitally important. The Salvos are aiming to raise $25 million nationally, so nobody struggles alone this Christmas. 

“Christmas is the busiest time of the year for The Salvos, and this Christmas we expect the additional stresses of this year will result in more people than ever struggling to afford Christmas for themselves and their families. The Salvation Army are here for you. Whether it is practical support like food or presents, or if you are feeling down or lonely this Christmas, reach out to us at The Salvos,” says Andrew Hill, The Salvation Army’s Public Relations Secretary for NSW.

There are many ways that you can partner with The Salvos to support your community this Christmas, including lending a hand, donating products such as gifts and food, or offering a financial donation to our Christmas Appeal. The Salvation Army also host a number of special community celebrations during the festive season.

For more information on how you can support this Christmas, or to find out about local events, please contact your nearest Salvation Army centre in the Newcastle & Hunter areas. You can also visit salvationarmy.org.au. 

During the Christmas period last year, thanks to the generosity of the Australian public, The Salvation Army nationally: 

  • distributed tens of thousands of food hampers to those struggling to make ends meet, 
  • received over 250,000 gifts and toys for families who might otherwise have gone without, **
  • provided over 132,000 meals, 
  • and provided more than 66,000 bed nights for families in need of accommodation during the festive season.*

“It is more important than ever to band together as a community and lend a hand to those doing it tough. By believing in our good work and supporting our Christmas Appeal, The Salvation Army can continue providing wraparound services and tailored support and bring much needed hope and help to Newcastle and Hunter families in crisis, ensuring nobody struggles alone this Christmas,” says Andrew Hill.

The Salvation Army also encourages community members looking for affordable Christmas shopping options to consider Salvos Stores. Whether gift-shopping or looking for Christmas decor, there’s always something special to be found. Not only will you save on your Christmas shopping, but 100% of the profits raised support The Salvos community work across the country. It is good for the planet, good for your wallet and good for people in need.

“Most importantly, take time to remember what matters most at Christmas – connection, community, friends, and family. Reach out to people. Spend time with those you care about. And if Christmas is a hard or lonely time for you, remember that your local Salvos family is always just down the road. From all of us at The Salvos, we wish you a peace and hope-filled Christmas,” says Andrew Hill.

To find out about local Christmas event information, to donate to The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal, or if you need support from The Salvos, please visit salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58). Donations can also be made at any Salvos Store.

Second man arrested over the murder of Zachery Davies-Scott in the Hunter Region

Homicide Detectives have arrested a second man following an investigation into a home invasion and fatal shooting in the Hunter Region last year.

About 10.50pm on Tuesday 27 December 2022, emergency services were called to Traders Way at Heddon Greta – about 20km east of Cessnock – following reports a man had been shot.

NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the man; however, he died at the scene.

He has since been identified as 25-year-old Zachery ‘Zac’ Davies-Scott, known to many in the area as ‘Donnie’.

State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad took carriage of the investigation under Strike Force Roslyn, with assistance provided from officers attached to the Hunter Valley Police District and Northern Region.

Police were told a group of people allegedly forced entry to the Heddon Greta home before Mr Davies-Scott was fatally shot in what is believed to be a home invasion gone wrong.

A 52-year-old woman also sustained minor injuries attempting to fight off the alleged attackers.

Other family members home at the time – including two children, aged 2 and 4, and Mr Davies-Scott’s pregnant partner – witnessed the incident, but were uninjured.

The group allegedly left the scene in a white SUV that was seen travelling on Main Road, Heddon Greta, shortly after the incident.

In February 2023, strike force detectives seized a white 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander from a street in Boolaroo near Newcastle.

One man has already been charged and remains before the courts.

Following further inquiries, about 6am today (Thursday 2 November 2023), strike force detectives – with assistance from Raptor Squad – executed a search warrant in Cessnock where they arrested a 24-year-old man.

He was taken to Cessnock Police Station, where he is expected to be charged with murder. 

Investigations under Strike Force Roslyn continue.

Woman charged over Gateshead shooting – Lake Macquarie

A woman will appear in court tomorrow, charged following an investigation into a shooting in the Lake Macquarie area earlier this year.

About 2am on Thursday 21 September 2023, emergency services were called to a home on Cassia Crescent, Gateshead, following reports of a shooting.

Officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District arrived to find a man and woman had suffered gunshot wounds.

The 42-year-old man and 32-year-old woman were treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to John Hunter for treatment.

A crime scene was established, and an investigation led by Lake Macquarie Detectives was commenced.

On Monday 25 September 2023, a 31-year-old male was charged with offences relating to the investigation and remains before the courts.

Following extensive inquiries and an appeal for information, detectives arrested a woman at a property on Bousfield Street, Wallsend, around 2.30pm yesterday (Wednesday 1 November 2023).

The 25-year-old woman was taken to Waratah Police Station and charged with shoot at with intent to murder and discharge firearm etc intend cause grievous bodily harm.

She was bail refused to appear before Newcastle Local Court today (Thursday 2 November 2023).

URGENCY NEEDED AS FIVE WOMEN MURDERED IN TEN DAYS

The murders of five women in just 10 days must increase the urgency of governments and communities to tackle violence against women and their children.

The cross-party federal Parliamentary Friends of Ending Violence Against Women calls for renewed focus on this epidemic of violence to turn the tide on these horrific gendered killings.

Counting Dead Women Australia has confirmed seven women – Katherine Safranko, Heather Dean, Krystal Marshall, Thi Thuy Huong Nguyen, Lilie James, Analyn ‘Logee’ Osias and Alice McShera – were killed by violence in October, bringing the total to 43 for 2023. 

We must tackle the root causes of violence against women, and to transform harmful social norms, with well-funded, expert-led respectful relationships education in schools, sporting associations, workplaces and across all aspects of society. 

We need funding for the frontline services that provide emergency housing, wrap around support, legal advice, counselling and healing, and long term affordable housing.  

We know that First Nations women are eight times more likely to be murdered as a result of violence, and we know that there is violence in every suburb and community across the country. 

We also know this is an issue that crosses party lines and work across governments has started.  

We have seen the power of multipartisan commitments to ending this violence through the adoption of the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children and funding to deliver the strategy, changes to workplace regulation including a positive duty to prevent sexual harassment and support for Respectful Relationships Education in schools. We have also seen efforts to address perpetrator behaviour through a Healthy Masculinities project and Stop It At the Start campaigns. 

Governments at all levels must continue to prioritise this issue with funding and leadership, and each of us must drive the cultural change we need to end the epidemic of violence against women in our communities.

Senator Larissa Waters
Bridget Archer MP
Alicia Payne MP

Co-convenors of the Parliamentary Friends of Ending Violence Against Women and Children

If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000. If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

JUSTICE UNFROZEN FOR SURVIVORS OF INSTITUTIONAL CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE

Today’s decision in GLJ v The Trustees of the Roman Catholic Church for the Diocese of Lismore has overturned the ruling that the Church is able to use so-called “permanent stays” to block survivors of abuse from seeking compensation. 

Now that the High Court has rebalanced the law to protect survivors, there is an urgent need for national law reform so that cases which have been unjustly stayed before today can recommence. This is what happened when the Parliament changed the law to remove  statute of limitation restrictions following the Royal Commission. 

Greens Senator for NSW and Justice Spokesperson David Shoebridge said: 

“This is an important win for survivors who have increasingly been facing bully boy tactics from ruthless institutions seeking to avoid accountability. 

“Institutions that have protected paedophile priests for years should not be able to use this as a reason to not face survivors in court. 

“It’s now time to unfreeze all cases where survivors of abuse are affected by unfair and oppressive permanent stays. 

“We now need urgent reforms to the law to overturn past permanent stays so survivors can have their day in court. Justice can’t wait any longer.” Senator Shoebridge said. 

Sue Higginson Greens State MP and Spokesperson for Justice said:

“This is a good and just outcome and some survivors are breathing a deep sigh of relief. The work to achieve substantive justice must now begin for all of those survivors who have been denied justice, including those who have been forced into compromised settlements because of the Catholic Churches abuse of this legal power. 

“I will do all I can in NSW to this end” Ms Higginson said. 

Working Aussies hit hardest by inflation crisis

New ABS data has blown apart the Treasurer’s claim that working Australians are better off under the Albanese Government.

In the September 2023 quarter, living costs for working households rose 2.0 per cent, with an annual rate that is almost twice that of the Consumer Price Index.

What is more, data showed these Australians were most impacted by rising mortgage costs, and can only expect more pain from Labor’s lack of a plan to tackle inflation.

This comes at the same time the IMF has warned that more needs to be done to contain Australia’s “high and persistent inflation”.

Shadow Minister for Finance, Senator Jane Hume said these figures confirm that inflation is what’s fuelling the pain that Australian households are feeling right now.

“This new data from the ABS reinforces what Australians already know, it is tough under this Albanese Labor Government.

“We know that inflation is going to be higher for longer, because of the Labor’s lack of action. That means that interest rates are also going to be higher for longer. The data shows it is working Australian mortgage-holders who are feeling it most.

“Labor was elected on a promise to make life ‘cheaper’ for Australians, but like so many of their promises, this one is well broken. With interest rates rising and real wages going backwards, Australians are continuing to pay the price for Labor’s cost of living crisis.

“Tackling inflation is the only way we can give cost of living relief to all Australians, but unfortunately Labor doesn’t have a plan. Australians can’t afford another year of Labor’s inaction.“The fact that this new data comes as the IMF has flagged additional rate rises will be needed is of great concern.”

New era for Adamstown Park as Masterplan approved

Council has adopted a blueprint for the future of the city’s largest suburban sporting and recreation hub, ensuring a recent $1.25 million makeover is just the beginning for Adamstown Park.

City of Newcastle (CN) officially opened stage one of the Adamstown Park Masterplan in July, delivering significant upgrades at Myers Park including new drainage, fencing, covered seating, fitness stations, a running and walking track as well as half basketball and bat ball courts.

Future plans for the 13-hectare precinct have been spelled out in the new 15-year masterplan, with potential projects including two additional junior football fields, the extension of existing amenity buildings and walking track, as well as gender-friendly changerooms.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said there’s plenty of potential to improve the already popular public asset.

“Adamstown Park has been a part of the local community for more than 130 years and enjoyed by generations of people in Newcastle,” Cr Nelmes said.

“City of Newcastle sought extensive feedback from key user groups and the broader community to make sure the needs of all users were considered and understood.

Chair of CN’s Community and Culture Advisory Committee, Cr Carol Duncan, welcomed the adoption of the masterplan and thanked community members for their valuable feedback.

“The masterplan gives us a framework for the future and the inclusion of new infrastructure will ensure even more people can enjoy the precinct,” Cr Duncan said.

“The next stage of work in delivering the masterplan will begin early next year with the construction of a new playground near the existing tennis courts close to Glebe Road.”

Future improvements to passive and active recreation include increasing the number of trees and landscaping, a multipurpose active court, flood light renewal on several fields, as well as an all-weather training pitch next to Adamstown No.1, which will be subject to external funding.

Along with recreational and sporting facilities, the masterplan also includes a provision to relocate a World War One memorial, which currently sits on private property on Brunker Road, to a space near the corner of Glebe Road and Bryant Street.

Merewether-Hamilton-Adamstown RSL Sub-Branch President Phil Winney OAM said it’s an important monument that needs to be preserved.

“This memorial has been in Adamstown since 1921, but its current location has become problematic since the RSL club closed down in 2014,” Mr Winney said.

“We stopped holding a march on Anzac Day because of the disruption to traffic on Brunker Road and we could only accommodate a small crowd for the service.

“With help from City of Newcastle, as well as state and government grants, we hope to move the memorial to Adamstown Park, allowing us to revive the full Anzac Day service and the march, without safety or traffic concerns.”

Development of the Adamstown Park Masterplan was a recommendation in City of Newcastle’s adopted Strategic Sports Plan and aligns with the directions of the Newcastle 2040 Community Strategic Plan.

To view the Adamstown Park Masterplan go to: https://haveyoursay.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/adamstown-park-sports-masterplan