New partnership to make school a safe space for all students

Action to make schools in NSW a safer space for all students and staff will be at the heart of a landmark 10-year partnership between a re-elected NSW Liberal and Nationals Government and the State’s religious communities.

Following concerns of antisemitic and faith-based bullying in schools, the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government will bring the Department of Education, Multicultural NSW and the Religious Communities Advisory Council together to create a unified approach to continue stamping out racism, religious intolerance and discrimination against students and teachers.

Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said a proposed Memorandum of Understanding would reflect and formalise the constructive and open relationship the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government has had with faith communities over many years.

“Our faith communities play a vital role in NSW, including in our school system and so it is fantastic we have been able to make a commitment to this partnership to continue our collaborative work on such important issues,” Ms Mitchell said.

“No students or staff should face discrimination or bullying, including based on their faith. The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government remains focussed on addressing this issue, as well as reaffirming our commitment to special religious education and special education in ethics in NSW public schools.”

Activities and initiatives as part of the partnership between the Department of Education and Religious Communities Advisory Council would include:

· Consultation as part of the Curriculum Reform process and development of curriculum resources to support teaching and learning of the new syllabuses, including best-practice teaching of the Holocaust in all NSW schools

· Accredited professional development to support teachers and school staff to promote student wellbeing when managing religious discrimination

· Cooperation with the Student and Experience Directorate Complaints team to build trust and facilitate better reporting of religious vilification and bullying

· Ensuring that every public school has a trained Anti-Racism Contact Officer, and is provided with additional training and resources to combat religious discrimination including antisemitism and religious bullying.

Minister for Multiculturalism Mark Coure said the school environment is integral to fostering peace and respect between young people so those values are carried into their adult years. 

“School is a formative time for young people, and we want to ensure that students are guided to understand the impacts of racism, hatred and religious intolerance,” Mr Coure said. 

“By highlighting the dangers of hate and promoting harmony, we can foster a new generation of leaders that can help steer NSW towards becoming an even more successful multicultural and multi-faith society.”

$200 million for Henry Lawson Drive Upgrade

Motorists in South Western Sydney will get home sooner and safer with the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government investing $200 million to extend the upgrade of Henry Lawson Drive along a critical stretch in Milperra.

Treasurer Matt Kean said the upgrade to Henry Lawson Drive is part of a $1 billion WestInvest roads package, made possible by the Liberal and Nationals Government’s long term economic plan.

“This is about making sure South West Sydney is thriving now and into the future, with the road infrastructure that can cater to more drivers,” Mr Kean said.

“The upgrades to Henry Lawson Drive are a win for families who will be able to spend more time with each other, and for businesses that want to get more done.”

Minister for Metropolitan Roads Natalie Ward said the upgrade will ease congestion for motorists along this critical South Western Sydney road corridor.

“We know South Western Sydney is booming, that is why we are committed to providing the essential infrastructure to keep people moving on their local roads,” Mrs Ward said.

“The upgrade of 1.8 kilometres between Auld Avenue and the M5 Motorway builds on Stage 1A which creates more capacity for vehicles traveling through Milperra and Newbridge Road.”

Member for East Hills Wendy Lindsay said this is a critical project that the community has been calling for and make positive difference to travel times for thousands of drivers across South Western Sydney. 

“This is about listening to the community and delivering, travelling on Henry Lawson Drive will become an easier trip for everyone across South Western Sydney,” Mrs Lindsay said.

Transport for NSW received more than 100 submissions during the community consultation period last year, reflecting the keen community interest in this project.

A Review of Environmental Factors is being prepared, which will include the impacts from the finalised design features and construction of the project.

Transport for NSW will keep the community informed about next steps for the upgrade.

Other road projects already announced include: For more information, go to https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/current-projects/henry-lawson-drive-upgrade-stage-1b

What are regional banking options?

A primary concern for people living out bush is the lack of face-to-face banking services in regional Australia. This has been a primary concern of One Nation’s now for more than 20 years.

The national inquiry into banks closing their services in rural areas is uncovering crucial issues that need urgent attention. A recent hearing in Sale revealed a shocking lack of consultation between banks and community members before deciding to shut down their branches.

The disconnect between the head offices of large corporations in major cities and the realities of regional communities is becoming a significant issue. The Senate inquiry heard the concerns of these communities across regional Australia and has heard of innovative solutions to keep banking services in rural areas open.

A Postal Bank would fit Australia’s gap in regional banking services quite neatly and has been implemented successfully in Japan and New Zealand.

The Postal Bank would convert current Australia Post branches into a proper national bank run by the government, providing face-to-face banking services to regional Australians. The benefits of the Postal Bank are many.

Regional and metropolitan councils around Australia are now signing up for the campaign to introduce an Australia Post Bank because of the benefits they see for their communities.

A local bank branch that knows the area and the people was the key to the success of the original Commonwealth Bank, which did incredible things to build Australia before it was dismantled after pressure from private banks. We need a proper banking service in regional Australia that provides face-to-face services to the people.

Many Australian politicians have now realised the damage these bank closures are doing to the bush. A serious and urgent re-think is required or many areas of rural Australia may no longer be viable communities

The Senate inquiry is not a witch hunt into banks, as some have suggested. It is a necessary inquiry to address the lack of face-to-face banking services in regional Australia. The Postal Bank proposal is a viable solution that needs to be explored further. Like so many other issues, we need broad political buy-in from parliament for the proposal to gain traction.

BUILDING A STRONGER PARTNERSHIP WITH INDIA

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will travel to India from 8 –11 March at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister’s visit to Ahmedabad, Mumbai and New Delhi will further deepen our strategic, economic and people to people ties with India, a close friend and partner to Australia.

Prime Minister Albanese will join Prime Minister Modi for the Australia-India Annual Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi. The Prime Ministers will discuss trade and investment, renewable energy, technology, defence and security cooperation. The visit will also highlight our strong educational and cultural ties.

Prime Minister Albanese will be accompanied by Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell and Resources Minister Madeleine King. Minister Farrell and Minister King will also lead a delegation of senior Australian business leaders on this visit.

The business delegation will participate in the Australia-India CEO Forum in Mumbai, discussing trade and investment opportunities opened up by the recent Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement and future areas of business to business collaboration with their Indian counterparts.

Prime Minister Albanese will also join Prime Minister Modi at the Fourth Test Match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Ahmedabad. A shared passion for cricket is a hallmark of our long-standing friendship, a relationship that has been enriched by generations of Indian Australians.

This will be the first visit by an Australian Prime Minister to India since 2017.                                                                                

Prime Minister Albanese said:

“This will be my first visit to India as Prime Minister and I look forward to reinforcing the strong bond between our two countries.”

“Our relationship with India is strong but it can be stronger. It is underpinned by our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which underscores a joint commitment to working together to enhance our defence, economic, and technological interests.”

“A stronger India-Australia partnership is good for the stability of our region.  It also means more opportunities and more trade and investment, strengthening our economies and directly benefiting our people.”

 “As we look to the future, India will continue to be an important partner and close friend to Australia. I look forward to hosting Prime Minister Modi in Australia mid-year for the Quad Leaders’ Summit and to visiting India again in September for the G20 Leaders’ Summit.”

Man charged over alleged animal cruelty & domestic assault– Raymond Terrace  

A man will appear in court today after allegedly throwing a puppy against a wall and assaulting a man in the Hunter Region.

About 9am (Friday 3 March 2023), officers from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District commenced an investigation into an alleged assault and act of animal cruelty.

Police have been told two men – aged 18 and 24 – became involved in an argument before the younger man allegedly assaulted the older man, causing an injury to his eye.

The younger man has allegedly thrown a cattle x kelpie puppy against a wall causing serious injuries.

Eight-week-old ‘Dax’ was taken to a local vet for treatment for injuries including a broken leg, which had to be amputated.

Following inquiries, police arrested an 18-year-old man in Maitland about 7pm (Friday 3 March 2023).

He was taken to Raymond Terrace Police Station and charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm (DV) and commit an act of aggravated cruelty upon an animal.

The man was refused bail to appear at Newcastle Court on Saturday 4 March 2023.

Investigation underway after Muswellbrook home invasion

Police will address the media following an aggravated home invasion at Muswellbrook overnight left four people injured.

About 1.15am (Saturday 4 March 2023), emergency services were called to a home on Forbes Street, Muswellbrook, following reports of an aggravated robbery.

Police have been told five men – wearing balaclavas and armed with weapons including machetes, knives, hammers and a pole – forced their way into the house and assaulted four occupants, demanding money.

A 59-year-old man, a 47-year-old woman, a 20-year-old man and a 19-year-old woman were treated at the scene for injuries including a suspected skull fracture, broken jaw, broken arm and lacerations. They were all taken to John Hunter Hospital at Newcastle for further treatment. Their injuries are not considered life-threatening.

Two dogs at the home were also struck with machetes and have been treated by a vet; they are reported to be in a stable condition.

Officers from Hunter Valley Police District established a crime scene and have commenced inquiries into the incident.

GREENS WELCOME AUSTRALIA’S DECISION TO CO-SPONSOR VANUATU’S ICJ CLIMATE RESOLUTION

Deputy Greens Leader and International Aid & Global Justice spokesperson Senator Mehreen Faruqi has welcomed the Australian Government’s decision to co-sponsor Vanuatu’s UN bid to seek an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on the rights of present and future generations to be protected from climate change. 

The Greens, along with civil society groups, have been pushing Australia to step up and co-sponsor the resolution.

Senator Faruqi said:

“The Government’s decision to co-sponsor  Vanuatu’s initiative is a positive signal to  Pacific nations that Australia is starting to listen to them and their campaign for climate justice.

“Now, Australia has to back this up with strong, credible climate policy at home: a transition to renewables and no new coal and gas. Shamefully, Labor’s safeguard mechanism policy is pro-coal and gas.

“The Government’s decision is reportedly based on a recognition that the climate crisis is the single greatest threat to our Pacific neighbours. At the same time, the Government is nonetheless willing to make the climate crisis worse by opening new coal and gas.”

“Wealthy, colonial countries of the Global North, including Australia, bear overwhelming responsibility for causing and driving the climate crisis. Australia must advocate for global climate justice and critically, must stop making the climate crisis worse by opening new coal and gas.”

GREENS URGE LABOR TO STARE DOWN LIVE EXPORT INDUSTRY PRESSURE

Senator Mehreen Faruqi, Australian Greens Deputy Leader and Spokesperson for Animal Welfare, has criticised  efforts by the live sheep export industry to pressure Labor into backflipping on their election promise to ban live sheep exports, as reported today.

Senator Faruqi said:

“Labor went to the last two federal elections with a policy to end live sheep export, a measure that polling repeatedly shows is supported by a clear majority of people.”

“The Government must stare down this brazen attempt by a cruel and brutal industry to bully it into backflipping on that promise.”

“The industry’s claims that it has reformed and can now be trusted is rubbish. Sheep continue to die in large numbers on live export ships and suffer oppressive heat stress.”

“We know even the most basic transparency measures, such as independent observers, are not being followed, making a mockery of any of their animal welfare claims. The Government is being taken for a ride by this cruel industry.

“The industry is right on one thing though: Animal welfare campaigners won’t stop at just the live sheep industry. Live animal export should be shut down entirely, as New Zealand is doing. It is simply incompatible with animal welfare.”

GREENS CALL FOR IMMEDIATE TASMANIAN DEVIL POPULATION SURVEYS IN TEMDUDHEKER/WOOLNORTH AND ON PILITIKA/ROBBINS ISLAND

The Greens call for immediate Tasmanian devil population surveys in temdudheker/Woolnorth and on pilitika/Robbins Island, after very sad and shocking revelations today that devil facial tumour disease – responsible for wiping out 95% of the Tasmanian devil population – has been detected in an area of the state’s north west previously considered disease-free.

Greens Senator for lutruwita/Tasmania, Peter Whish-Wilson said:

“This news is absolutely devastating. Tassie devils are only just clawing their way back from this horrendous disease, whilst also battling a myriad of other pressures such as becoming roadkill, land clearing, mining and logging.

“The Greens call for Tasmanian devil health surveys to be conducted urgently in and around the remaining temdudheker/Woolnorth populations and on the critical pilitika/Robbins Island, to help better inform conservation management plans. 

“This shocking news adds urgency to acting on roadkill mitigation measures, such as reducing speed limits in the area, as agreed upon in the recent Circular Head Council meeting. 

“My colleague Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP and I will be writing to the Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek today to bring this sad news to her attention. We will also seek urgent assistance for health and population surveys as part of the devil’s federal recovery plan and stress the need for increased focus on devil protection and conservation in this critical area.

“The Federal Government has responsibilities under the EPBC Act to help devils recover, but hasn’t committed a cent towards the devil’s recovery in the last five years and this needs to change. 

“Abandoning the Tasmanian devil now, after so much time, money and love has been poured into keeping the treasured species alive and healthy, is a cruel death sentence.”

Commitment needed to deliver renewed plan for Stockton

City of Newcastle is calling for a meeting of the NSW Deputy Premier’s Stockton Beach Taskforce, to determine which NSW Government agencies will fund and own the sand nourishment implementation actions for managing erosion in Stockton, as discussed at a meeting with the Stockton Community Liaison Group this morning.

The draft Extended Stockton Coastal Management Program (CMP) steps out an expanded list of management actions that support the long-term strategy of mass sand nourishment outlined in the 2020 Stockton CMP, and broadens the geographical area covered to include the northern end of Stockton Beach from Meredith Street to the Port Stephens Local Government Area boundary.

The complementary actions featured in the Extended CMP are intended to prolong the benefits of mass sand nourishment.

The Deputy Premier’s Stockton Beach Taskforce was established by John Barilaro in May 2020 to drive the implementation of sustainable long-term solutions to the coastal erosion issues for Stockton Beach – with a focus on sand sourcing options and pathways to seeking funding – and last met in June 2022.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said that collaboration and leadership from all levels of government is vital to delivering a solution for the Stockton community.

“Delivering the CMP is a complex process, and each action outlined in the plan needs to be championed and funded by the most appropriate agency,” Cr Nelmes said.

“It is appropriate that the NSW Government be tangibly involved in a solution for Stockton Beach, as it is their infrastructure, namely the breakwater and deepwater navigation channel of the Port of Newcastle, that has been proven as the primary cause of ongoing erosion at Stockton Beach.”

Chair of the Stockton Community Liaison Group, Barbara Whitcher, called on the State Government to commit to a solution as a matter of urgency.

“The east coast lows are likely to arrive any time, and we need commitment from the State Government to solve the problem of erosion.”

City of Newcastle’s Executive Director Planning and Environment Michelle Bisson said mass sand nourishment remained the long-term solution to protecting the NSW Government owned Stockton Beach, and the Extended CMP is an important next step to delivering the long-term vision.

“The Extended CMP has been informed by extensive consultation with the community, as well as the findings of additional studies and investigations undertaken since the development of the 2020 CMP,” Ms Bisson said.

In October 2022, the NSW Government was successful in obtaining a $6.2 million grant through the Coastal and Estuarine Risk Mitigation Program, which includes $4.7 million from the Federal Government and $1.5 million from the City of Newcastle.

NSW Public Works were appointed earlier this year to manage the project funded by the grant, which includes the delivery of the initial amenity nourishment for Stockton, studies into possible sources of mass sand from the North Arm of the Hunter River and offshore sources, as well as the environmental approvals required for mass sand nourishment – a complex process which has never before been undertaken in NSW.

Pending confirmation of the allocation of responsibility for actions, the draft Extended Stockton CMP will then be finalised ahead of public exhibition in mid-2023.