Category: NSW News

NSW Ambulance proudly welcomed 40 new paramedic interns and 21 trainee emergency medical call takers today, officially inducting them into the service during a ceremony at the State Operations Centre in Sydney Olympic Park.

With this latest intake, NSW Ambulance has now added around 800 new paramedic trainees, along with more than 150 emergency medical call takers since the start of the year, providing an important boost to frontline health services across the state.

The recruits bring with them a diverse range of skills and experiences, including paramedic intern Shoallea Attoe, who overcame several personal obstacles to fulfill her dream and Niko Auer, who previously worked in media and will be joining the ranks of our emergency medical call takers.

Paramedic interns will now begin the on-road phase of their 12-month internships at various locations across NSW, before taking up permanent positions in both metropolitan and regional communities.

The trainee emergency medical call takers will be posted to the Sydney control centre.

Minister for Health, Ryan Park:

“I’m so proud to welcome these incredible new paramedics and emergency call takers to NSW Ambulance.

“These additional recruits will play an important role in supporting our community in emergencies, strengthening our frontline workforce and helping form the backbone of our healthcare system.

“The Minns Labor Government knows that investing in additional paramedics and emergency call takers is vital for the evolution of NSW Ambulance, as it continues to deliver exceptional patient care.”

NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan:

“I am delighted to welcome this latest group of paramedics and emergency call takers, with both roles critical in delivering timely and high-quality care.

“The diverse background and experiences of these new recruits will enrich the service and benefit communities across the state.

“Welcoming new staff is not just about increasing numbers; it is about building a team that patients can trust to deliver world class responses and treatment.”

paramedic intern, Shoallea Attoe:

“I had dreams of becoming a paramedic, but as a teenage mum it felt so far out of reach that I dismissed it.

“I am so proud of how far I’ve come, and of the example I’ve been able to set for my daughter that no matter your background, dreams that once felt impossible can be reached.”

trainee emergency medical call taker, Niko Auer: 

“I wanted to find a more meaningful job, something community focused and with a positive career progression.

“To be such an integral part of an emergency service is the right direction for me.”

Victim survivors of crime in NSW will have a stronger voice after the Minns Labor Government passed legislation to establish an independent commissioner to advocate for their rights.

The Victim Rights and Victims of Crime Commissioner Bill 2025 passed Parliament late on Wednesday, fulfilling an election promise to establish an Independent Victims Commissioner.

The new Commissioner will assume the advocacy functions of the current Commissioner of Victims Rights, who will continue to administer the Victims Support Scheme and register for victims of forensic patients. The new Commissioner will:

• Be appointed by the Governor and operate independently of Government.
• Advocate on behalf of victims of crime on a systemic level and oversee the Charter of Victims’ Rights, which sets out how victims of crime should be treated.
• Have the power to request or require an individual or agency to produce information or documents related to an alleged breach of the Charter.
• Be able to prepare special reports for NSW Parliament on relevant matters, including the Charter of Victims’ Rights, and enter information-sharing arrangements with public sector agencies.
• Be responsible for identifying, reviewing and conducting research into systemic issues faced by victims of crime, consulting with victims of crime and their supporters, and making recommendations to the Attorney General.

The Bill also renamed the Victims Rights and Support Act 2013 as the Victims Support Act 2013.

This will allow the Independent Victims Commissioner to appoint a new Victims Advisory Committee to replace the existing Victims Advisory Board.

The new committee will include representatives from the general community who have relevant knowledge of and experience in matters relating to victims of crime.

It will also include an Aboriginal representative as well as representation from NSW Police, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Legal Aid and the Department of Communities and Justice.

The passage of the legislation follows detailed and extensive consultation with key groups including victims’ support bodies and justice agencies.

Attributable to Attorney General Michael Daley:

“The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its promise to give victim survivors of crime a stronger voice.

“This legislation will allow for the establishment of an advocate for victim survivors of crime operating independently of Government.

“The Independent Victims Commissioner will play a crucial role in shaping policies affecting victim survivors and champion their interests.”

An elected NSW Liberals and Nationals Government will unlock the Erskineville, Macdonaldtown, Newtown and St Peters area for new housing, transforming land around four train stations for a vibrant, connected community with thousands of new homes.

This announcement follows on from the Long Bay plan for thousands of homes unveiled last month.  Together they mark the beginning of a series of bold commitments to tackle the housing shortage and give more families, renters and first-time buyers a fair go.

The precinct commitment today covers more than 100 hectares of land located in the City of Sydney local government area and within minutes of Central Station. Today it holds mostly low-rise housing. The plan is to protect the character of key heritage streets while focusing new homes near stations and on suitable redevelopment sites. 

Early estimates suggest the area could support up to 15,000 new homes, staged over time with schools, childcare centres, green spaces and community facilities.

Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said the renewal would change lives by putting more housing where transport and services already exist.

“We’re putting forward a vision that makes sense for Sydney. These are neighbourhoods with trains, hospitals, schools and universities on their doorstep. Our plan is about making sure the next generation can afford to live here too. We won’t sit by while others make excuses,” Mr Speakman said.

Shadow Minister for Transport and Roads Natalie Ward said the plan shows how infrastructure and housing can work together.

“With four stations already in place, this community can grow without forcing people further away from jobs and study. Macdonaldtown station already has an upgrade planned and we would improve cycleways and safer walking links. Just like we built the metros and light rail, we will deliver the transport that makes housing possible,” Ms Ward said.

Shadow Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Scott Farlow said the renewal would show how density and amenity can work hand in hand.

“This is about homes with heart. We will renew communities with open space and give people the schools and services they need. This is a once-in-a-generation chance to bring new life to the inner city while protecting what makes it special,” Mr Farlow said.

Key features of the plan include:

• A staged renewal with a master planning process focussed within an 800-metre radius of Erskineville station and 400-metre radius of Macdonaldtown, Newtown and St Peters stations, limited to within the City of Sydney Council area. The total investigation area would be in excess of 100 hectares,  delivering up to 15,000 new homes depending on final boundaries and configuration.
• Completing upgrades to Macdonaldtown station and early delivery of new cycling corridors and pedestrian connections.
• Expansion of local schools and new childcare centres to keep pace with population growth.
• New parks, community facilities and sustainability standards to support liveability.
• A planning approach that considers local heritage and places higher density near stations, with high frequency services within 10 minutes off Central. 

This renewal is just one element of the Liberals’ and Nationals’ housing agenda for 2027, showing that bold ideas and practical delivery can transform Sydney for the better.

The Koori Netball Tournament will return to the Charlestown Netball Association courts on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 October 2025, bringing together more than 5,000 people from across New South Wales for a weekend of netball, family, and cultural connection. Now in its 26th year, the much-loved tournament has grown from just nine teams in 1999 to more than 125 teams representing communities from Dubbo in the West, Taree in the north west, Illawarra in the south, Tweed on the far north coast.  The event has become a highlight on the calendar for First Nations netballers and their families, creating a true carnival atmosphere filled with laughter, friendship, and fierce competition.

Image Credit: Kylie Streatfield

“It’s the best weekend of the whole year,” said Dianne Pascoe, former President of the Charlestown Netball Association and the driving force behind the tournament. “They get their mob and bring in new people from the area to make up their teams.” Over two massive days, more than 1,500 games of netball will be played across multiple divisions — from 10 years through to Open Women’s and Mixed — as players, families, and supporters come together to celebrate community through sport. Campbelltown will field nine teams this year, blending families and newcomers who have recently joined the area. A few local girls from Charlestown will proudly deliver the Welcome to Country, setting the tone for a weekend grounded in respect and unity. “The players have the best time catching up with family and relatives from different communities – they come from Dubbo, Baulkham Hills and Newcastle,” Pascoe said. “For every netball player, there are at least four other people who come along for the fun – they bring their Elders, their kiddies to watch while Mum and Dad play on the court.” Although Pascoe is not of First Nations heritage, she has been deeply moved by the tournament’s meaning and spirit since its inception. “It’s so different to what I have experienced before. The atmosphere has resonated with me from the very first tournament. I love it. To me it’s all about encouraging people to play netball.”

Image Credit: Kylie Streatfield

The Koori Netball Tournament is delivered by Charlestown Netball Association, supported by the Office of Sport and Netball NSW, with the event now recognised as one of the largest and most significant gatherings for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander netballers in the state. Netball NSW will also be on site to identify talented 11–13-year-old girls for development camps, supporting pathways for First Nations athletes, as well as opportunities for umpires and coaches to grow their skills. “The Koori Netball Tournament is such a special event on our calendar – it’s about much more than competition,” said Trish Crews, Executive General Manager – Communities at Netball NSW. “It’s about celebrating culture, creating opportunity, and building connections that last long after the final whistle. Every time we see communities come together for this event, it’s a reminder of the power of sport to unite and inspire.” A ‘Spirit Award’ will once again be presented on Sunday to the team that best embodies sportsmanship, camaraderie, and respect throughout the two-day tournament – a fitting reflection of what the event stands for. “The Spirit Award reflects what this event is all about,” Ms Crews said. “It’s not just about winning – it’s about how you play the game, how you support your teammates, and how you represent your community.” NSW Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said: “The Koori Netball Tournament is a great example of how sport can enhance reconciliation by bringing people together in a healthy, positive environment. “The Minns Labor Government is proud to support this wonderful event. “The Tournament is always a weekend of fun and inclusive competition, and I wish everyone involved the best of luck.” Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison said:  “The Koori Netball Tournament is a highlight for our local area each year. Watching people coming together – either as players or spectators over these two days – shows how sport can really unite.  “I wish all the teams the very best of luck for the tournament!” As one of the state’s most vibrant celebrations of netball, culture, and connection, the Koori Netball Tournament continues to unite generations and communities through a shared love of the game.

The Minns Labor Government is continuing work to strengthen Sydney’s reputation as a world-class events and tourism destination, with construction on the brand-new Cutaway at Barangaroo reaching a major milestone.

The first of 13 sculptural timber elements have now been installed, marking 85% completion of the project and offering a first look at what will soon be one of Sydney’s most unique cultural and event spaces.

Once complete, The Cutaway will enhance Barangaroo’s standing as a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike, becoming Sydney’s premier venue for events, exhibitions, festivals and installations.

This project is part of the Minns Labor Government’s broader effort to recharge Sydney’s vibrancy, boosting the visitor economy by relaxing restrictions on nighttime trading, lifting concert caps, and investing in world-class events and attractions across the state.

The 13 sculptural timber “trees” form the centrepiece of the design, each standing 16 metres tall and made from up to 150 precision-crafted timber pieces. Beyond their architectural beauty, the structures also enhance the venue’s acoustics through perforated plywood and insulation.

Guided by principles of Connecting with Country, the redesign draws on deep collaboration with First Nations designers Shannon Foster and Jake Nash. The transformed Cutaway will reflect the curved forms of the giba-gunya (rock shelter), creating a space that is both welcoming and culturally resonant.

In line with Barangaroo’s sustainability goals, the project has achieved impressive environmental outcomes, diverting over 90% of construction waste from landfill, cutting carbon emissions by more than 50%, and sourcing all timber sustainably.

When completed in early 2026, The Cutaway will feature:

• Two versatile event levels with flexible spaces
• A grand main hall showcasing the original sandstone wall
• Improved natural light and acoustic performance
• Kitchen, green room and back-of-house facilities to support premium events.

Event programming is set to begin next year. For more information, visit NSW Government | The Cutaway.

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

“I’m excited to announce the Cutaway is now 85% complete, as we continue our work to bring Sydney back to life and restore our reputation as one of the great global cities for culture, nightlife and tourism.

“Projects like The Cutaway show what’s possible when we invest in world-class venues that attract visitors, create jobs and re-energise our nighttime economy.

“We’re rebuilding Sydney’s vibrancy by backing our creative industries, our venues and our local jobs.”

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“The new and improved Cutaway is set to become the beating heart of Barangaroo, drawing crowds from far and wide and providing a major boost to the local precinct and businesses.

“Delivering this new unique venue will ensure Barangaroo is a must-visit destination. Once completed, it will be another iconic institution set on Sydney’s harbour, hosting a diverse range of events, that will really assist in unlocking the potential of the precinct.”

Minister for the Arts, Minister for Music and Night-time Economy John Graham said:

“The design of the Cutaway maximises the potential of the space, transforming it into a globally attractive venue for arts and culture.

“Located in a culturally significant location and redesigned in collaboration with First Nations practitioners, the Cutaway will feature First Nations arts and culture programming.”

Member for Sydney Alex Greenwich said:

“These works will supercharge the Cutaway as an iconic destination for events and exhibitions in our great global city, and also shows the government’s commitment to strengthening vibrancy in our city.”

Flood-affected homeowners across the Northern Rivers are being encouraged to make their homes more resilient to future disasters, with practical support available through the Resilient Homes Program.

The NSW Reconstruction Authority is helping residents impacted by the 2022 floods take steps to protect their homes from future damage — whether that’s by raising, retrofitting, rebuilding or relocating their properties to safer ground.

Through the Resilient Measures stream, homeowners can access grants of up to $100,000 for house raising and up to $50,000 for retrofitting works to strengthen and adapt their homes, reducing the impact of future floods.

Homeowners eligible for Resilient Measures may also seek a grant for costs associated with other assessment activities, such as planning documentation, feasibility, design, and development approvals, where appropriate, up to a maximum of $20,000.

Through the Resilient Homes Program, homeowners can access matched funding, with the NSW Reconstruction Authority contributing dollar-for-dollar alongside eligible homeowner co-contributions up to $100,000 for house raising and up to $50,000 for retrofitting works to strengthen the flood resilience of homes.

To help residents understand what’s possible, the NSW Reconstruction Authority is hosting Resilient Homes Expos in Murwillumbah and Lismore, along with a series of Resilient Measures Information Sessions across the region.

These events will bring together experts in resilient design and construction, including architects, builders, relocation specialists, local council and RA staff, who can help homeowners along their journey.

So far, more than 580 home assessments have been completed, with hundreds of homeowners already receiving individual reports and beginning upgrades to make their homes safer and better prepared.

The NSW Reconstruction Authority is encouraging eligible homeowners to apply for the program before 31 March to ensure they can access tailored support through the program before it ends in June 2027.

The $880 million Resilient Homes Program is jointly funded by the Commonwealth and NSW Governments as part of the broader recovery package for the Northern Rivers, delivered through Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Homeowners can register for upcoming Expos and information sessions at nsw.gov.au/nsw-reconstruction-authority/resilient-homes-expos-northern-rivers

Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said:

“The Minns Labor Government continues to support Northern Rivers communities recover and rebuild stronger.

“Where we can, we’re helping people future-proof their homes with practical, long-term measures that reduce the risk and impact of future floods.

“Through initiatives like the Resilient Homes Expo, we’re bringing together government, industry and community to ensure people have the information and support they need to make informed decisions about rebuilding safer and smarter.”

NSW Reconstruction Authority Executive Director, Northern Rivers Adaptation Division, Kristie Clarke said:

“We know every homeowner’s situation is different, and recovery doesn’t happen overnight.

“These Expos are a one-stop shop where residents can speak directly with our team and industry experts about grants, approvals, and practical steps to make their homes more resilient.

“Our message is simple — it’s not too late to take action to protect your home and your family.”

Resilient Homes Expo:

• Murwillumbah – Wednesday 22 October, 4-7pm, Murwillumbah Civic and Cultural Centre
• Lismore – Monday 10 November, 4-7pm, South Lismore Bowling Club

Resilient Measures Information Sessions:

• Murwillumbah – Tuesday 28 October, 4–7 pm, Murwillumbah Community Centre
• Coraki – Wednesday 19 November, 4–7 pm, Coraki Youth Hall

NSW Premier Chris Minns and Minister for Veterans David Harris today announced Greece and Crete as destinations for the 2026 Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship school study tour exploring Australia’s military history of the Second World War.

The announcement comes a week after students from schools across NSW returned from the 2025 study tour to the Republic of Korea and Singapore.

The students visited the site of the Battle of Kapyong, the Demilitarised Zone and the UN First Battle Memorial in the Republic of Korea. In Singapore, the tour included visits to the Kranji War Memorial, Changi Prison Chapel and Museum, and the Fort Siloso and Surrender Chambers.

Sixteen students from across NSW will be selected to participate in next year’s study tour to Greece and Crete, with 2026 marking the 85th anniversary of the Greek and Crete campaigns of 1941.

Key locations on the tour include Athens, war cemeteries at Phaleron and Suda Bay, and the historic site of the Battle of Rethymno, where Australian and Greek troops faced a fierce German paratrooper assault. Of the more than 17,000 Australians who served in the campaigns, nearly 600 died and over 1,000 were wounded. Each site holds deep significance in the nation’s involvement in the Second World War.

Applications opened today for Accompanying Teachers for the 2026 tour that will take place in the Term 3 school holidays.

NSW teachers of Stage 5 History and/or Stage 6 Modern History are encouraged to apply for this unique professional development opportunity to enrich their understanding and teaching of Australian war time history.

Student applications will open in early 2026.

Applications for the role of Accompanying Teacher for the 2026 tour close at 11:59pm on 26 November 2025. Eligible teachers can apply here: https://veteransaffairs.smartygrants.com.au/PAMS2026Teachers.

Students who will be in Year 10 or 11 in 2026 are encouraged to register their interest. 

More information is available here: https://www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/education/premiers-anzac-memorial-scholarship/

NSW Premier Chris Minns said:

“The Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship is a wonderful opportunity for high school History students to further develop their understanding of the history of Australians at war.

“The 85th anniversary of the Greek and Crete campaigns of 1941 provides a unique opportunity to offer NSW high school students passionate about history a chance to commemorate and better understand the experience of Australian men and women who served in this important theatre of the Second World War.”

Minister for Veterans David Harris said:

“The PAMS tour presents a unique opportunity for teachers and students from all over New South Wales, and I highly recommend that history teachers consider applying.

“The 2026 tour will explore Australia’s military history during the Second World War, visiting locations that experienced the war’s impact firsthand. Students and teachers will hear the stories of those who served and sacrificed their lives in these campaigns that defined our nation’s involvement in the Second World War.

“The study tour is an important initiative in ensuring the legacy of our Second World War veterans is preserved. By connecting young Australians with the places where our veterans served, we honour their courage, service and sacrifice, while strengthening our commitment to remembrance.”

Elizabeth Farmer, Nowra High School teacher and 2025 PAMS accompanying teacher said:

“The Premiers’ Anzac Memorial Scholarship experience is more incredible than can be believed. From gaining experiential learning ideas on the ground where Australians have fought to deepening your understanding of syllabus content, the study tour was an outstanding opportunity to further my knowledge of HSIE content, but to also link my family history and service to locations vital to Australian history.

“The Scholarship offers more than a chance to walk in the footsteps of our past servicemen and servicewomen, it offers the chance to help shape the way future generations interact with our shared history and our past, present and future veterans.”

Christian Bell, Christian Brothers’ High School Lewisham teacher and 2025 PAMS accompanying teacher said:

“The Premiers’ Anzac Memorial Scholarship tour is one of the most rewarding professional development experiences a History teacher can undertake. It offers the rare chance to explore overseas sites of Australian service, memorials including museums, and battlefields, alongside expert historians, whose knowledge and storytelling bring history vividly to life.

“Equally inspiring is working with the students. A group of curious, respectful, and deeply engaged young people whose enthusiasm for learning about Australia’s military past makes every moment on tour meaningful. I strongly encourage teachers to apply.”

Biana Nguyen, 2025 PAMS Scholar, St George Girls High School:

“The Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship tour to Korea and Singapore was a powerful experience that reshaped how I see history.

“Visiting sites of remembrance and learning about the impacts of war in both countries made the past feel real and immediate.

“Standing in places where Australians once served and hearing stories of resilience, loss and recovery gave me a deeper understanding of the legacy of military service.”

Liam Harrison, 2025 PAMS Scholar, Mereweather High School said:

“Participating in the PAMS tour was a transformative experience that deepened my understanding of history far beyond the classroom. Through immersive visits to significant sites and memorials, gained a significant appreciation for the complexities of war and the enduring legacy of those who served.

“I very much encourage other students to apply for the scholarship. It’s more than a tour, it’s an opportunity to grow, connect, and carry forward the memory of our shared past.”

A further 18 projects have been declared as State Significant Development (SSD) following recommendations from the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA).

Of these declared proposals, 14 are in metropolitan Sydney and four are in regional New South Wales.

If lodged and approved, this could create more than 4,900 homes, including affordable homes, across New South Wales.

Since the formation of the HDA in January, 109 projects have had Secretary Environmental Assessment Requirements issued and 10 Development Applications have been lodged.

To date, 279 proposals amounting to more than 96,000 potential homes have been declared State significant.

Recommendations from the HDA are published as required under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 before the SSD declaration.

The Ministerial Order can be found here.

Students in Bomaderry have started Term 4 in their new world-class public school facilities three months ahead of schedule, following a recently-completed stage of an upgrade for Bomaderry High School.

Member for Kiama Katelin McInerney officially opened the school’s new Technological and Applied Studies (TAS) building, with home economics and industrial arts lessons underway in new workshops for woodwork, metalwork, and food technology.

Bomaderry students will now be able to use the new facilities to learn contemporary skills on industry-standard equipment, providing a pathway for students to tertiary education and employment in the region.

Students and staff are already benefiting from major improvements, with a new administration office and refurbishment works to two buildings—including the installation of two new lifts to enhance accessibility—now complete and in use.

Further upgrades at Bomaderry High School are on the way, including the refurbishment of almost 50 existing classrooms and the installation of a new vocational education kitchen.

For over a decade, the former Liberal National government neglected public schools on the South Coast and failed to deliver the Bomaderry High School upgrades, despite promising to do so in 2021.

The upgrade to Bomaderry High School is among 12 new schools and major upgrades being delivered across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven region, including:

• Calderwood – new public school and public preschool
• Dapto High School – new covered outdoor learning area
• Flinders – new high school
• Milton Public School – upgrade
• Minnamurra Public School – new nature playground
• Nowra East Public School – upgrade
• Ulladulla High School – upgrade
• Ulladulla Public School – upgrade
• Vincentia High School – upgrade
• West Dapto – new public school and public preschool
• Worrigee – new public school and public preschool

The Minns Labor Government is also building nine additional new public preschools in the region, offering more than 700 places per week for the area’s youngest learners.

The public preschools will be co-located with Barrack Heights, Berkeley West, Bomaderry, Cringila, Greenwell Point, Hayes Park, Lake Heights, Lake Illawarra South, and Sanctuary Point public schools.

These upgrades reflect the NSW Government’s commitment to delivering better schools for NSW students. The 2025–26 Budget includes a record $9 billion investment in school infrastructure, with $2.1 billion allocated to new and upgraded schools in regional NSW.

Alongside the Minns Labor Government’s investment in education infrastructure, we are making sure there are more teachers in front of students in NSW classrooms and have reduced teacher vacancies by 96 per cent in the electorate of Kiama.

Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos said:

“These upgrades represent our significant investment in the Bomaderry community and will deliver long-term benefits for local students and their families.

“For far too long, families on the South Coast were promised new schools and upgrades that never progressed past a media release by the Liberals.

“The Minns Labor Government, with the leadership of Deputy Premier Prue Car, is committed to building better public schools for our children.”

Member for Kiama Katelin McInerney said:

“It is crucial that our students have access to a world-class public education, and that is being delivered.

“Our government is investing in ensuring students learn in the best quality learning environment possible, have access to modern, industry-standard equipment that sets them up for success in their learning and the workforce, and an education experience that builds their belief in themselves so they can go out and make our community an even better place.”

Bomaderry High School Principal Ian Morris said:

“These new upgrades are just brilliant. Importantly our students can see that the equipment and facilities they have are absolutely world class.

“Our students are excited by them and the new office at the front of the school is a game changer for our community.

“Our support staff feel more valued as their workplace has been completely modernised, and our students will leave school with experience using industry-standard hospitality, woodwork and metalwork equipment.

“This level of support for regional education is just fantastic and welcomed by our entire school community.”

The Minns Labor Government is positioning NSW to be a global leader and industry partner in the race for critical minerals, rare earths elements and high-tech metals by supporting millions of dollars of investment in exploration.

The NSW Government has announced grants that will facilitate around $5 million of funding for 29 exploration projects to undertake drilling, geophysics and geochemistry exploration and find the next major critical minerals project.

Under the Critical Minerals and High Tech Metals Exploration Program, the NSW Government will provide almost $2.5 million in co-investment funding to the 29 projects. Explorers must then match it to receive the funding.

By partnering with the mining industry to pursue exploration, we can help discover more deposits of the critical minerals needed to manufacture modern technologies, including electric vehicles, mobile phones and solar panels.

Global demand for copper is rising rapidly, with prices climbing more than 20% this year. NSW is stepping up to meet this demand. Copper production in the state has increased by a third over the past three years, to around 190,000 tonnes this financial year.

With 21 of the 29 projects focused on copper exploration, this investment builds on NSW’s position as an industry partner and leading global supplier, and helps unlock new deposits to support the electrification of the economy, as well as AI data centres, clean energy technologies and infrastructure.

As demand for rare earth elements – naturally occurring metallic elements with powerful magnetic properties – grows in strategic importance, NSW is also supporting its exploration and production.

New exploration being supported by this round of funding is targeting opportunities for rare earth elements and zirconium.

Other minerals being targeted for exploration include silver and cobalt, vital to renewable energy technologies, manufacturing, infrastructure, and advanced medical equipment and diagnostics tools.

Successful applicants in the Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Exploration Program include:

• Waratah Minerals to undertake drilling activities to explore for copper at the Spur Porphyry Project in the renowned Macquarie Arc. Waratah Minerals previously discovered one of the most significant copper-gold deposits in NSW in the last decade.
• Neo Double Eagle Resources will explore for rare earth elements crucial in the production of smartphones, electric vehicles, wind turbines and defence technologies, with drilling activities at Binge Grumble Mountain.
• Alkane Resources will undertake drilling activities in the Central West using a new exploration model suggesting that hidden deep beneath the historic gold mines at Peak Hill may lie undiscovered copper resources. This project demonstrates that underexplored areas exist underneath known historic deposits.
• Silverton Minerals will be employing an innovative, low-impact technology which passively measures the natural electromagnetic fields in an exploration area generated by distant lightning strikes to identify possible mineral-bearing structures beneath the ground northwest of Broken Hill.

Exploration is critical in the early stages of any mining project. Intense and highly scientific activities are required to confirm the strength of a mineral deposit and its viability before a company can consider going through the planning process.

Already, there are approximately 1500 exploration titles currently being explored for minerals across the state, and this funding will further aid the search for the next big critical minerals, high-tech metals or rare earth elements deposit.

There are currently 15 active major metals and critical minerals mines across NSW, employing more than 6,000 people, mostly across the Central West and Far West.

The announcement comes as NSW prepares to host the International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC), the largest international mining event in the Southern Hemisphere, with more than 10,000 delegates from 120 countries set to participate in Sydney this week.

The NSW Government is also hosting the Critical Minerals Investment Showcase, promoting investment-ready projects across the state to global funders from Europe, the Middle East, India, Korea and Japan.

This funding round is a key pillar of the NSW Government’s Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Strategy which is driving new investment in critical minerals and high-tech metals exploration production, processing and manufacturing.

Successful projects will commence exploration in coming months, advancing the search for critical minerals and high-tech metals needed to support future industries and power our way to Net Zero. 

Further information about the successful projects and recipients is available at Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Exploration Program.

Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos:

“NSW has the critical minerals and high-tech metals that the world needs to drive a clean energy future, create new jobs, and build resilient supply chains.

“Whether it’s the copper we need for data centres, antimony for batteries, or the rare earth elements for electric vehicles,  NSW has the opportunity be at the centre of the critical minerals boom.

“These co-investment grants highlight the Minns Labor Government’s partnering with industry, and for NSW to be a leading player in the global race for critical minerals.

“NSW has an abundance of critical minerals and high-tech metals waiting to be discovered. We’re supporting miners and explorers alike to boost supply of these strategically important resources. 

“This is the biggest round of exploration funding ever offered in NSW. From exploration to production, we are supporting targeted initiatives at each stage of the project pipeline.”