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Victoria Barracks sale shows Labor not serious on housing

Labor’s planned fire sale of Victoria Barracks sites ignores the obvious solution: converting this prime publicly-owned urban land into social and affordable housing for those locked out of the market.

Selling to the highest bidder while Australians sleep in cars and tents exposes the government’s misplaced priorities.

Greens Senator and Defence Spokesperson David Shoebridge said:

“Labor is planning to sell off prime public land to developer mates while families can’t afford a home.

“Victoria Barracks could house hundreds of families in real public homes, flogging it for luxury private developments would squander this opportunity.

“We built hundreds of thousands of public homes in the past. Defence Housing does it now. After all Labor’s bluster about taking action on the housing crisis why are they ignoring this critical opportunity?

“A few ‘affordable’ apartments for 10 years isn’t a plan, it’s crumbs from the table while developers feast on our public land.

“Done right these sites could deliver literally thousands of homes, protect heritage and provide beautiful and much-needed public parklands.

“Labor selling this land without any regard to the desperate need for public housing and the strong community support for the built heritage and green open space is a three way betrayal.

“These buildings are located towards the centre of cities where housing affordability is hitting hardest and driving ordinary people into hours-long commutes.

“Keep Victoria Barracks public. Build bold. Build green.

“If Labour was serious about public housing, they’d prove it at Victoria Barracks. I call on them to at least try rather than just flogging off more public assets to the highest bidder.

Greens spokesperson for housing Barbara Pocock:

“We are in the middle of a national housing crisis, we have people on decades-long waiting lists for a roof over their head and a severe lack of public and affordable housing.

“The solutions to the housing crisis are simple, but this isn’t it. Instead of flogging off land to private developers for massive profits, what we need is direct public investment in social and affordable housing.

“Labor needs to start treating housing as a human right rather than a game of monopoly, and to make the best use of prime publicly-owned land.

“We need affordable housing in central city locations with access to green space – not the privatisation of prime public sites.

“Labor can find the money and political will to build public housing for US troops and foreign defence contractors – but not for Australians. Instead it offers a fire sale to salivating developers and privatisation pirate profiteers. We say no.”

Greens anti-price gouging Bill to be debated tomorrow

The Greens’ Bill to ban corporate price gouging across the economy will be debated in Parliament tomorrow, giving Labor the chance to stop sitting on its hands and tackle inflation.

“Price gouging is a major driver of inflation, and Australians are copping it every day,” Greens Economic Justice Spokesperson Senator Nick McKim said.

“When big corporations with market power jack up prices simply because they can, that feeds inflation right through the economy”

“Supermarkets are a clear example, but this problem goes far beyond the checkout. Price gouging is happening across the economy, and it’s keeping inflation higher for longer.”

The Greens’ Bill would make price gouging illegal across the economy and give the ACCC the powers it needs to investigate and prosecute corporations that exploit their market power to unfairly hike prices.

“Instead of leaving the inflation fight to the Reserve Bank and interest rate rises, the government should be tackling corporate price gouging, which is one of the major inflation drivers.”

“Labor promised to act on price gouging. Tomorrow, they’ll have the chance to prove it.”

“If Labor is serious about bringing inflation down and easing cost-of-living pressure, they should support the Greens’ Bill and ban price gouging across the economy.”

Greens legislation would ban dirty donations as AEC data reveals major parties still pocketing millions in corporate handouts

The Australian Greens have reintroduced a Bill to ban political donations from dirty industries driving the cost-of-living and climate crises, including fossil fuel companies, gambling giants and the big banks, as new AEC data this week shows the major parties are still bankrolling their campaigns with millions in corporate handouts.

Greens Democracy Spokesperson, Senator Steph Hodgins-May:

“AEC data confirms that the major parties are still hooked on dirty donations.

“While everyday Australians struggle with soaring cost of living and housing crises, big corporations are pouring millions into Labor and Liberal coffers to protect their profits.

“Nearly $4 million from coal and gas has flowed to the major parties in just one year. You cannot fight the climate crisis while being funded by those who profit from it.

“When the gambling industry and the big banks write massive cheques, they’re not doing it for nothing — they’re pulling the strings from behind the scenes.

“This Bill would finally clean up politics by putting a stop to dirty donations.

“It will cap donations at $3,000 per term, finishing the job abandoned when Labor and the Liberals cut a backroom deal to gut last year’s electoral reforms.”

Labor’s response to consultancy inquiries woefully inadequate

After taking years, the federal government has finally responded to the recommendations of two parliamentary inquiries into the consultancy sector, prompted by the PwC tax scandal. Unfortunately, the government has failed to meet the moment.

The two parliamentary inquiries made 52 recommendations between them, which were agreed to by Labor, the Liberals and the Greens, which gave the government an opening for reform across the accounting and consulting sector.

The reports made clear recommendations, including lowering partnership caps, separating audit from non-audit services, improving whistleblower protections and not allowing PwC to tender for government work until all ongoing investigations have concluded.

The Greens say the government’s responses are woefully inadequate but not surprising and call on the government to legislate the reports’ recommendations instead of relying on voluntary guidelines and endless reviews.

Australian Greens spokesperson for finance and public sector Senator Barbara Pocock:

“The government’s response to this consultancy crisis is woefully inadequate. We discovered a tidal wave of malpractice, poor governance and structural failures. The government’s response fobs off our report with baby steps that don’t meet the scale of this crisis.

“So much of the Parliament’s time and resources have been spent uncovering unethical behaviour in the consultancy sector. The government was provided with clear recommendations for cleaning up the sector but instead of agreeing to them, Labor continues to greenlight unethical contractors.

“This is a government of gestures. Despite the extensive evidence and comprehensive recommendations, the government is once again choosing to tinker around the edges, instead of committing to actual reform.

“Political donations data released this week shows that big consulting firms are still giving large donations to the government. It’s a straightforward conflict of interest – it’s no wonder Labor is failing to act. Three of the Big 4 consultancy firms continue to donate to the government – this is just wrong and the government is refusing to take action on this.

“The government continues to distance itself from a myriad of consultancy scandals, which won’t go away. The fact that the government let PwC back into the fold before the TPB, AFP and NACC investigations had concluded is both baffling and pathetic. Astonishingly they’ve refused to comment on PwC continuing to hide crucial information from the Senate.

“The government’s refusal to clean up the unethical practices rife across the consultancy sector is the reason why the Greens introduced a bill to parliament. We must close the legal loopholes that allow government contractors who behave unethically to get away with it.”

First home buyers, latest casualties of a rotten revolving door

In the same week Australian households were told their mortgage repayments will go up, they have also learnt who the real beneficiaries of government housing policies are and…. it’s not first-home buyers.

As reported in the media, the Housing Minister’s “policy brain” who was pivotal to the creation of Labor’s 5 percent deposit scheme, which drove up house prices in the midst of a housing crisis, is making the move to Commonwealth Bank – one of the big four banks profiting off bigger home loans.

The Greens say the lucrative revolving door is shameful and it’s clear that Labor cares more about the profits of the banks than it does about first-home buyers.

Greens spokesperson for finance, housing and homelessness Senator Barbara Pocock:

“In the midst of a housing crisis, Labor’s 5 percent deposit scheme has driven up house prices. It’s a policy that encourages people to take on more and more debt while they compete with wealthy property investors.

“As millions of Australians now face increased mortgage repayments in a cost of living crisis, many will be left wondering who benefits? The banks do. For every mortgage, the banks make $200,000 profit.

“When the Housing Minister’s adviser takes up a job at an institution that is among the greatest beneficiaries of Labor’s policy, what are mortgage holders and first-home buyers supposed to think?

“This is a blatant example of the endless rewards of the lucrative revolving door.

“Australians are fed up with the jobs-for-the-mates mentality that’s plagued successive governments. This is why the Greens have always supported strengthening lobbying oversight by extending the ban on former ministers’ lobbying from 18 months to five years and applying it to senior staff.

“Treasury’s own modelling said house prices would go up under the 5 percent deposit scheme. Borrowing 95% of a mortgage when homes are eight times the average household income is a recipe for financial stress, not stability. It’s clear that Labor and its advisors care more about banks than it does about first-home buyers and making housing affordable.

“Without tackling the root causes of the housing crisis, which is the tax breaks for wealthy property hoarders, house prices will continue to spike, and banks will continue to rake in the profits.”

All roads lead to Newcastle as city takes centre stage as events destination

A stacked line-up of world-class sport, music and stage performances is ensuring Newcastle continues to be the hottest ticket in town for fans and promoters of live events.

Strong sales are expected when tickets go on sale today for the upcoming Women’s State of Origin match at McDonald Jones Stadium, which last year attracted almost 22,000 rugby league fans to Newcastle.

NSW player and Newcastle Knights women’s captain Yasmin Meakes, McDonald Jones Stadium Venue Manager Dean Mantle and Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz celebrate tickets going on sale for the Women’s State of Origin match in April.Australian comedian Kitty Flannagan is already feeling the love from Newcastle audiences, adding two extra shows to her existing run of four dates at the Civic Theatre this week due to demand.

Thousands of music lovers are also preparing to converge on Foreshore Park on 14 February for the return of the Howlin’ Country music festival, headlined by Grammy winner Lainey Wilson and Nashville-based Newcastle singer songwriter Morgan Evans.

These events are just a taste of what’s ahead for Newcastle, with some of the world’s best male and female surfers set to make waves as part of the World Surfing League Challenger Series event, which will headline Surfest in March.

Men’s and women’s international rugby league stars will showcase their skills in October and November for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, with matches featuring Fiji, Cook Islands and New Zealand, as well as a semi-final double header.

The global Rugby World Cup juggernaut will kick plenty of goals for union fans in October 2027 with the schedule revealing Newcastle will play host to pool matches featuring Japan v Samoa, Fiji v Spain, Uruguay v Portugal and Italy v Georgia.

Chair of City of Newcastle’s Sports Infrastructure Working Group Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz said events are key to creating a vibrant and prosperous city.

“Sold out shows, record crowds and repeat bookings by organisers demonstrate the huge demand in Newcastle for events that engage all ages and demographics, and cater to a range of tastes,” Cr Winney-Baartz said.

“Major international-level events also help put Newcastle on the map with global audiences, providing opportunities to capture tourism, economic growth and job creation by catering to locals and attracting fans from around the country and across the world.”

Chair of City of Newcastle’s Community and Culture Strategic Advisory Committee Councillor Jenny Barrie said Newcastle is an events powerhouse, attracting nationally and internationally renowned acts and events to entertain audiences across the city.

“Newcastle has become a must stop destination for promoters looking for a world-class city to stage major events or be included on their national tour schedules,” Cr Barrie said.

“This reputation has been fostered and continues to grow off the back of a strategic focus and investment by City of Newcastle, and collaborations with the NSW Government through Destination NSW and our major events partnership with Venues NSW.

“City of Newcastle is committed to attracting, retaining and delivering high‑quality events that generate immediate economic returns and ongoing benefits for the community.

“These events contribute millions in direct spending and unlock a breadth of wider benefits, including repeat tourism, stronger supply chains, enhanced workforce skills, increased industry capability and more employment opportunities for locals.”

To stay up to date with all the events happening across Newcastle visit visitnewcastle.com.au/whats-on

Workers compensation reforms pass parliament

Reforms to repair the NSW workers compensation system have passed state parliament.

Businesses and community sector providers will be spared significant increases to their workers compensation premiums as a result, and workers will have a much stronger pathway to recovery.

The resolution was based on a breakthrough compromise put forward by crossbench members in the lower house last year.

It won endorsement in the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday after passing the Legislative Council on Tuesday night. It includes:

A legislated 18-month restriction on average premium increases.
Retaining the Whole Person Impairment (WPI) thresholds moved by Lower House crossbenchers.
A new “Return to Work” intensive program that provides an additional year of medical benefits and income replacement.
New powers enabling the Treasurer to lower the WPI threshold, if in the public interest.
A replacement program to Business Connect.
Changes to terminology surrounding the reasonable management action defence.

It is the most significant reform to workers compensation in a generation. It stabilises the system and puts it on a path to financial stability. It prioritises prevention and improves return to work rates.

Without the reform, premiums for employers facing no claims against them were expected to rise by at least 36 per cent over three years.

The result follows extensive consultation over the past year with business and unions, as well as the community and not-for-profit sector.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey:

“These reforms finally allow us to stabilise the workers compensation system and return it to a secure footing.

“The scheme has been failing injured workers, employers, the non-profit sector and taxpayers for too long. That has now come to an end.

“I want to acknowledge Business NSW and the state’s major business organisations, as well as NCOSS and charities and not-for-profits for their advocacy. I also thank the Labor caucus and the union movement for its engagement through many difficult but necessary conversations.”

Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis:

“These reforms ensure early support to injured workers, a road to recovery and return to work.

“It puts the scheme on the path to sustainability so that it can continue to care for injured workers and be affordable for business to fund.

“The reforms will help small businesses and not-for-profits, especially in regional areas, retain staff and create jobs.”

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Jihad Dib:

“These changes are about protecting the workers compensation scheme for the long term, so it remains strong, fair and able to support the people who rely on it.

“Workers now have the certainty they need and the confidence to get on with their recovery and their working lives, knowing the system will be there when they need it.”

NSW Government to consider recommendations from Bondi Junction inquest

The Bondi Junction tragedy has left a lasting impact on the community, and the delivery of the coronial findings today will be difficult for anyone impacted.

The final report contains 23 recommendations, 12 of which relate to the NSW Government, these include:

Considering options to support the roll-out of appropriate co-responder models so that they are more widely available throughout NSW.
Monitoring and assessing the trial of the amendments to the Law Enforcement Powers and Responsibilities Act 2002 (NSW) in respect of “wanding”.
Promoting, by way of an advertising campaign, the principles of “Escape. Hide. Tell.”

The NSW Government will now carefully consider the Coroner’s recommendations to assess how they can be implemented to further strengthen our mental health system and improve community safety.

Over the past 18 months, the NSW Government has undertaken work to identify systemic contributors to this tragedy and take proactive steps to address them.

In direct response to the Bondi Junction tragedy, the NSW Government delivered a $111 million package to strengthen community mental health services.

This included leading national work to establish a principles-based framework to improve interjurisdictional information sharing for both voluntary and involuntary mental health consumers.

In September 2025, all Ministers for Health and Ministers for Mental Health across Australia formally endorsed the framework, reflecting a shared national commitment to safer, more connected mental health systems.

These investments focus on streamlining access to state mental health services to reduce fragmentation and barriers to care, expanding assertive outreach models to better engage transient and hard-to-reach individuals, and enhancing mental health housing for people living with severe and persistent mental illness.

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

“This will be a difficult day for many, particularly for the families who lost loved ones, those who were injured, first responders, and everyone in the Bondi community whose lives were changed forever.

“We will now carefully consider the Coroner’s recommendations and work to implement measures that strengthen our mental health system and community safety.”

Minister for Health Ryan Park said:

“I want to commend the bravery, skill and compassion shown by NSW Ambulance, hospital staff and all first responders who worked under immense pressure to save lives on that tragic day.

“The effects of the tragedy have been felt far and wide. I extend my deepest sympathies to the families, friends and loved ones of those who were affected.”

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said:

“My thoughts are with the families who will forever be affected by this horrific event and I thank the Coroner for her diligent work and her recommendations.

“I cannot overstate the bravery of our police officers that day. Their actions epitomised the very best of the NSW Police Force, confronting danger to protect others. I particularly want to acknowledge Detective Inspector Amy Scott for her remarkable actions.

“It’s critical that people experiencing a mental health incident receive the help they need which is why we are working with Health on a mental health led response to incidents in our community.”

Attorney-General Michael Daley said:

“The NSW Government thanks the Coroner for her thorough investigation and findings. We will take the time to consider the recommendations before formally responding.”

Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said:

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to supporting people with complex mental health concerns to access support services.

“We’ve taken immediate action in the aftermath of the Bondi Junction tragedy to strengthen community mental health supports and improve information sharing across all Australian jurisdictions, but there is always more work to do.”

Central Coast young leader among NSW Women of the Year 2026 finalists

Central Coast champion Layne Paull has joined the ranks of 31 remarkable women and girls to be named a finalist for the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards.

The North Avoca resident is nominated in the NSW Young Woman of the Year category.

The NSW Women of the Year Awards recognise outstanding women who demonstrate strong leadership, resilience and community spirit.

Ms Paull is a young leader with a passion for inclusion, innovation and community service.

As Inclusion Nippers Coordinator for North Avoca Surf Life Saving Club and Team Leader for Disabled Surfers Association, she has developed programs that make aquatic environments welcoming for people of all abilities.

Ms Paull juggles studying biomedical engineering at the University of Technology Sydney with her role as a disability support worker, designing personalised strategies to enhance clients’ skills and independence.

She was awarded the Women in Engineering Scholarship 2025 by Engineers Australia.

Now in its 14th year, the awards program shines a light on extraordinary individuals across the state who are improving lives, driving innovation, strengthening communities and inspiring future generations.

Recipients in each of the five award categories will be revealed at the Women of the Year Awards ceremony on Thursday 5 March at the International Convention Centre, Sydney.

This is the flagship event of NSW Women’s Week 2026, held from Monday 2 March to International Women’s Day on Sunday 8 March.

The 2026 Women of the Year Awards finalists are:

NSW Premier’s Woman of Excellence

Professor Tracey O’Brien AM – Lane Cove LGA
Clare Pearson – The Hills Shire LGA

NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year

Dr Aunty Rhonda Radley – Port Macquarie–Hastings LGA
Adjunct Professor Nicole Turner – Port Stephens LGA
Sharon Winsor – Mid‑Western Regional LGA

NSW Community Hero

Carolyn Campbell-McLean – Parramatta LGA
Ruby Riethmuller – Northern Beaches LGA
Gidget Foundation Australia Founders Group:
- Alexandra Berthold – Ku-ring-gai LGA
- Libby Bowditch – Northern Beaches LGA
- Jacqui Cotton – Northern Beaches LGA
- Stephanie Hughes – Waverley LGA
- Lou Hunter – North Sydney LGA
- Kim Mouret – Northern Beaches LGA
- Simone Short – Mosman LGA

NSW Regional Woman of the Year

Jo Marshall – Upper Lachlan Shire LGA
Amy Riddle – Coffs Harbour City LGA
Jenny Worrell – Clarence Valley LGA

NSW Young Woman of the Year (16–30 years)

Miranda McGufficke – Snowy Monaro Regional LGA
Layne Paull – Central Coast LGA
Milli Weaver – Randwick City LGA
Dr Mithila Zaheen – Cumberland LGA

The Ones to Watch (7–15 years)

Imali Bamji – Hunters Hill LGA
Piper Clarke – Shoalhaven LGA
Hafsa Faizan – Liverpool LGA
Emma Hoskins – Blacktown LGA
Amalia Carolyn Howard – Dubbo LGA
Elly Ings – Northern Beaches LGA
Hannah Orr – Goulburn Mulwaree LGA
Ruvi Pooliyadde – Blacktown LGA
Shanvi Govinda Raju – Penrith LGA
Ivy Walker – Hornsby LGA

Learn more about the NSW Women of the Year Awards 2026 and finalists by visiting https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/women-nsw/awards-and-events/nsw-women-of-year-awards/nsw-women-of-year-awards-2026-finalists

Find out what other events are taking place during NSW Women’s Week 2026 at NSW Women’s Week 2026 | NSW Government. The NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony will be livestreamed for everyone to celebrate these inspirational women and girls.

Premier Chris Minns said:

“Every finalist represents the strength and diversity that defines New South Wales.

“These women are changing the lives of those around them – not for recognition, but because they believe in lifting up their communities.

“I congratulate all of the finalists and commend them for going above and beyond in their respective fields.”

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said:

“Layne’s tireless efforts in disability inclusion, innovation and community service are inspirational, and she is a more than worthy NSW Young Woman of the Year finalist.

“I join all Coasties in congratulating Layne.

“I would also like to acknowledge Professor Tracey O’Brien, a finalist for the NSW Premier’s Woman of Excellence and NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year finalists Adjunct Professor Nicole Turner, Dr Aunty Rhonda Radley and Sharon Winsor, all of who I have the privilege of working with in my other Ministerial portfolios.

“The calibre of women nominated for the NSW Women of the Year Awards couldn’t be higher and I congratulate each and every one of them.”

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

“Women and girls across New South Wales are making a difference right across our state and these awards recognise their invaluable contributions.

“This year we receive an incredible number of nominations, every one of them showcasing a story of grit, compassion and remarkable achievement.

“Our 2026 finalists come from all corners of New South Wales and their work spans health, community services, business, culture, education and advocacy. Their contribution enriches our communities and sets an example for girls and women everywhere.”

Member for Gosford and Parliamentary Secretary for Disability Inclusion Liesl Tesch said:

“The Central Coast is home to a vast array of fantastic women, shaping change and enriching our community through their everyday actions and incredible community spirit.

“A special congratulations to Central Coast local Layne Paull, a dedicated champion and advocate for disability inclusion.

“Layne’s expansive work in disability inclusion across sport, assistive technology, adaptive design and advocacy showcases her commitment to breaking barriers for all.

“Congratulations and thank you for your wonderful work Layne.”

NSW set to smash big battery target to secure our renewable energy future

The Minns Labor Government is backing the largest rollout of big batteries in NSW history. The NSW Government has awarded contracts for six new long‑duration battery projects to strengthen the state’s energy grid.

These batteries will ensure that NSW is on track to exceed its energy storage targets for the future. The batteries will help keep the lights on and provide enough low-cost renewable energy, being so powerful they can run one third of Sydney’s households for a day.

NSW has the most battery projects in Australia with over 200 projects either under construction or in the planning pipeline.

The projects are:

Great Western Battery in Wallerawang, near Lithgow (Neoen Australia) storing 3,500 megawatt hours (MWh)
Bannaby Battery Energy Storage System, in the Southern Tablelands (BW ESS) storing 2,676 MWh
Bowmans Creek Battery Energy Storage System, in the Upper Hunter (Ark Energy) storing 2,414 MWh
Armidale East Battery Energy Storage System (FRV Services Australia) storing 1,440 MWh
Kingswood Battery Energy Storage System, near Tamworth (Iberdrola Australia) storing 1,080 MWh
Ebor Battery Energy Storage System, near Armidale (Bridge Energy) storing 870 MWh

The big batteries are due to be completed by 2030.

As part of the Renewable Energy Rollout, the projects have been awarded contracts that provide a revenue underwriting,accelerating new energy infrastructure while protecting consumers. This means that the Government is supporting the project by providing investment confidence.

This tender was run by ASL, the independent Consumer Trustee. It is the state’s largest tender for long-duration storage to date, both in terms of total storage capacity and the number of contracts.

These projects are subject to the relevant planning approvals.

The Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe MLC, along with the Member for Granville, Julia Finn MP, officially opened Iberdrola’s completed Battery Energy Storage System in Western Sydney, which was successful as part of ASL’s Roadmap Tender 2, supported by the Australian Government Capacity Investment Scheme.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe said:

“These six big batteries mean we’re on track to smash our storage targets, harvesting the sun and the wind, so we can power NSW around the clock and put downward pressure on prices.

“We’re not stopping here – NSW will support more projects, so we’re ready for a grid powered by renewable energy, supported by gas.”

Julia Finn MP, Member for Granville said:

“I’m thrilled to open Iberdrola’s new Battery Energy Storage System in Smithfield, powering reliable energy to Western Sydney, while the Minns Labor Government backs more batteries right across NSW.”