Category: Australian News

Thursday 19 June, the Supreme Court of NSW will hear the case of Josh Lees, on behalf of Palestine Action Group, to challenge the constitutional validity of the most recent anti-protest laws passed under the NSW Minns Labor Government earlier this year.

Lees will be represented by barristers Craig Lenehan SC, Felicity Graham, Thomas Wood, and O’Briens Solicitors.

Plaintiff Josh Lees will speak to press alongside spokespeople from previously successful anti-protest challenges, including Rising Tide, and civil society organisations.

Plaintiff Josh Lees, PAG:

“Chris Minns’ anti-protest laws are based on lies, as the Minns Government exploited the Dural caravan hoax to rush them through while keeping the public and the parliament in the dark about the reality of this hoax. He exacerbated and exploited community fears to try to silence our protest movement against the genocide in Gaza.”

“The right to protest is a fundamental democratic right, and these laws are an unconstitutional attack on those fundamental rights. They must be overturned and repealed.”

Amal Nassar, PAG:

“As a Palestinian activist, I am deeply disturbed by the government’s increasingly authoritarian response to peaceful protest. From day one, our rallies have been unfairly targeted, surveilled, and suppressed, while the atrocities in Gaza escalate with horrifying intensity.”

Sue Higginson, Greens MLC:

“The draconian anti-protest laws in NSW are a blight on our democracy. Successive Governments have acted to criminalise peaceful assembly and protest, the latest of which were introduced by the Minns Labor Government under a shadow of lies told to the community about the true nature of the Dural caravan hoax.”

“The constitutional challenge to these harsh and undemocratic laws is a critical step in the defence of democracy in NSW. We have already seen the Supreme Court rule some anti-protest laws to be unconstitutional in 2023, rather than listening to that decision, the Minns Labor Government has continued to target legitimate protests in a clear attempt to suppress the voices of the community.”

“It is a disgrace, that the NSW Labor Party is continuing the work of the former Liberal Government, and is punishing the NSW community for speaking out against injustice and genocide.”

Timothy Roberts, President of NSW CCL:

“The people of NSW deserve a responsible government that is not reckless with their democratic rights and in the drafting of legislation. We have Chris Minns and a government that rushed through legislation by fear-mongering about protest.”

Quotes attributable to Dr Max Kaiser, Executive Officer, Jewish Council:

“These laws were sold as protecting Jewish communities and places of worship—but they do nothing of the sort. Using antisemitism as a cover to criminalise protest is cynical and dangerous. We reject this misuse of our identity and support the legal challenge to restore basic democratic rights.”

Plaintiff Alexa Stewart, Rising Tide 2024 challenge:

“Rising Tide’s Supreme Court challenge overturned an illegal exclusion zone placed by the Minns government on the entirety of Newcastle harbour last November, to attempt to prevent a peaceful protest advocating for a safe climate and funding for our regions.”

“Time and time again, Chris Minns has tried to arrest his way out of legitimate protest action. It’s a failing strategy.”

The Australian Government has directed the departure of all Australian officials and dependants and suspended operations at our Embassy in Tehran, based on advice about the deteriorating security environment in Iran.

Australia’s Ambassador to Iran will remain in the region to support the Australian Government’s response to this crisis.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is deploying consular staff to Azerbaijan, including its border crossing, to support Australians departing Iran.

We urge Australians who are able to leave Iran to do so now, if it is safe. Those who are unable to, or do not wish to leave, are advised to shelter in place.

We are continuing planning to support Australians seeking to depart Iran, and we remain in close contact with other partner countries. At this stage, our ability to provide consular services is extremely limited due to the situation on the ground. The airspace remains closed.

DFAT will also continue to provide support through the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre, direct contact with Australian citizens who have registered on our crisis portal and updates to travel advice.

The suspension of Embassy operations is consistent with steps taken by other countries, including New Zealand and Switzerland.

Australians in Iran seeking consular assistance should call the Australian Government’s 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia and 1300 555 135 (in Australia).

The Greens have welcomed the holding of a round table with First Nations Ministers and the Coalition of the Peaks today, and called on the federal government to make First Nations justice a priority in the 48th parliament.

Earlier this week the NT government scrapped an independent review into systemic racism, just weeks after refusing to conduct an independent investigation into the death of Kumanjayi White in police custody. 

Larissa Waters, Australian Greens leader and spokesperson on First Nations Justice

“It’s clear from the events of recent weeks that First Nations justice must be an urgent priority of the 48th parliament, and the Greens are ready to work with Labor to get outcomes,” Greens Leader Larissa Waters said on Friday.

“There have already been 13 Aboriginal deaths in custody this year. Recommendations from the 34 year old Deaths in Custody report remain unfulfilled, and opportunities to investigate structural racism in the justice system have been abandoned, but this parliament presents a real opportunity to take action.

“No child should be locked up in a jail, and First Nations children are 29 times as likely as non-indigenous young people to be in detention. Raising the age of criminal responsibility is  a long-held Greens position, and a key measure towards closing the gap.

“If the government is serious about closing the gap in health, education and incarceration rates, it’s time to actually do what First Nations people have been asking of us for decades.

“Healing starts with telling the truth and the Greens continue to call on the government to take urgent tangible steps towards Truth and Treaty in the 48th parliament.

“It’s time to fund real action on closing the gap and properly resource community led solutions, and the Greens are ready to work with Labor to get it done.”

Over the past two days, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has met with leaders from across the world at the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Alberta, Canada.

The Prime Minister participated with other G7 invited guests in a session on the future of global energy security.

Leaders discussed the need to diversify energy sources and strengthen critical minerals supply chains.

Australia endorsed the G7 Critical Minerals Action Plan, which increases cooperation to build standards-based markets, mobilise capital and promote innovation.

This opens up the prospect of further expansion of the Australian critical minerals and rare earths industry.

Leaders also discussed how innovation in emerging technologies like AI and quantum can support productivity and economic growth.

The Prime Minister joined G7 members in endorsing the Kananaskis Wildfire Charter, which aims to build a stronger and more coordinated global approach to preventing, fighting and recovering from bushfires.

As a nation, Australia knows the complete destruction bushfires can cause.

Across the world, bushfires are becoming more severe with climate change impacting their frequency and severity.

The Australian Government welcomes the global effort to fight what can be absolutely devastating events.

Australian and Canadian firefighters travel across seas regularly to provide support during our respective fire seasons, and just this month, Australia deployed a contingent of 97 personnel to Canada to assist in combating its recent wildfires.

Prime Minister Albanese thanked Prime Minister Mark Carney for inviting Australia to his hosting of the G7 this year.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“Our participation in the G7 Leaders’ Summit reinforces Australia as a key voice in global economic affairs.

“My Government is building on the foundation we have laid over the past three years for future sustainable growth, which makes participation in economic forums like the G7 all the more important.

“I look forward to capitalising on the outcomes of the Summit, including the cooperation outlined in the Critical Minerals Action Plan, which will deliver benefits to our nation and our region.

“I am pleased Australia has been able to help our Canadian friends battle the recent wildfires – Australia has not forgotten Canada’s assistance during our Black Summer bushfire response in 2019-20.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese today met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa and agreed to start negotiations on a Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) with the EU at the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Alberta, Canada.

The Partnership will provide a framework for current and future cooperation including in areas such as defence industry, cyber and counter-terrorism. 

Existing SDPs the EU has with other countries include cooperation on cyber, countering hybrid threats, maritime security, non-proliferation and disarmament, space and economic security.

A Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) aims to strengthen cooperation on global security challenges.

It does not have military deployment obligations.

Discussions on an SDP with the EU and renewed engagement to conclude an Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement, demonstrate strong momentum in the Australia – Europe relationship.

Negotiation of an SDP will remain separate to efforts to conclude an Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement that we are focussed on taking forward in Australia’s national interest.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“I am pleased to announce we’re stepping up our cooperation with the European Union today.

“We see how deeply connected Europe’s security and the Indo-Pacific region have become.

“I very much welcome the EU’s offer for a Security and Defence Partnership and Australia will warmly take it up and commence work immediately.

“This will open the door to joint defence procurement opportunities and will benefit both our industries and our security.

“At a time of global uncertainty, it is our collective responsibility to work together to uphold peace, security and economic prosperity.

“That is what I will continue to do every day and that has been a key take out of our work here at the G7 today.”

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen:

“In a time of rising tensions and strategic competition, trusted partners must stand together.

“Europe and Australia’s enduring friendship enters a new chapter today.

“Recognising the shared security of Europe and the Indo-Pacific, we are launching talks on a Security and Defence Partnership.

“We’re also committed to advancing free trade negotiations—because economic security matters too.”

President of the European Council Antonio Costa:

“Australia is an important partner for the European Union.

“We share the same values and a strong commitment to multilateralism and the rules-based global order.

“Europe’s and the Indo-Pacific’s regions are connected.

“Opening negotiations on a Security and Defence Partnership opens new opportunities to further strengthen our cooperation.”

More than 10,000 passionate netball fans will pour into Ken Rosewall Arena on Sunday 22 June, to witness one of the most anticipated matchups of the Suncorp Super Netball season – the second NSW Derby of the year between the NSW Swifts and GIANTS Netball.

Fast becoming one of the standout events on the NSW sports calendar, the Round 12 clash has officially sold out, with all tickets snapped up weeks in advance. It’s yet another sign of the incredible momentum behind Australia’s No.1 female sports league, and the undeniable pulling power of elite women’s netball in NSW.

This Derby comes as netball continues to confirm its place as the leading female sport, following a record-breaking 2024 Suncorp Super Netball season that saw a 25% surge in national attendance. In 2025, Round 1 alone attracted a record 22,369 fans nationally, an 8% increase on the 2024 Round 1 figure, which had set the previous benchmark just a year earlier.

The NSW Derby has quickly grown into a marquee moment for women’s sport, and the early sellout is a powerful reflection of the league’s growing influence. From young aspiring athletes in the crowd to household names on court, this fixture shines a spotlight on the strength and reach of netball in New South Wales.

“The Sydney Derby is a true celebration of women’s sport and the strength of netball in New South Wales,” said Tracey Scott, CEO of Netball NSW.

“To see Ken Rosewall Arena sold out more than a week in advance is a testament to the passion of our fans and the incredible athletes who inspire them. It’s moments like this that show just how powerful our game is and continues to be.”

Distinguished parliamentarians and VIPs will be in attendance, adding a touch of prestige to the occasion as they join thousands of fans in celebrating what’s fast becoming a must-see event in the sporting calendar. Their presence highlights the significance of the match not only within the netball community but also at a broader cultural and national level.

Sixteen of the 18 previous NSW Derby clashes between the Swifts and GIANTS have been decided by single figures or ended in a draw, including three thrilling one-goal finishes.

Both teams come into the Derby with contrasting recent form. The GIANTS have claimed back-to-back wins and are gaining momentum heading into the business end of the season. The Swifts, meanwhile, are looking to bounce back after two consecutive losses but still sit on top of the Super Netball ladder thanks to their strong start to the year.

As the fans roll into Ken Rosewall Arena on Sunday afternoon, one thing is certain – netball in NSW is on the rise, and the Derby is its main event.

The Australian Government has imposed targeted sanctions on 60 vessels linked to Russia’s shadow fleet.

This is the first time Australia has imposed sanctions against the shadow fleet.

Russia uses these vessels to circumvent international sanctions and sustain its illegal and immoral war against Ukraine.

Operating under deceptive practices, including flag-hopping, disabling tracking systems, and operating with inadequate insurance, the shadow fleet enables the illicit trade of Russian oil and other sanctioned goods.

These sanctions reinforce Australia’s consistent commitment to ensuring Russia, and those enabling its illegal invasion of Ukraine, face consequences.

Alongside those of key international partners, including Canada, the United Kingdom and the European Union, these sanctions help starve the Russian war economy of oil revenue.

Australia has imposed over 1,400 sanctions in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. We will continue to take coordinated and decisive action to protect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and disrupt Russia’s ability to fund its aggression.

Australia once again calls on Russia to immediately end this war and withdraw from Ukrainian territory. We remain steadfast in our support for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine.

Cooma Correctional Centre has been honoured with an official plaque to recognise its inclusion on the NSW State Heritage Register.

The plaque was unveiled today by Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong, who attended the Correctional Centre for a formal ceremony.

Corrective Services NSW Commissioner Gary McCahon also attended the event, which recognised the challenging past of Cooma Gaol, a correctional facility used exclusively between 1957 and 1984 to imprison people based on their gender identity or sexual orientation.

Over these decades, gay men, transwomen, and non-binary people were incarcerated at Cooma Gaol for the crime of homosexuality, a crime that remained illegal in NSW until it was decriminalised in 1984.

The Minns Government would like to reiterate its apology to the people convicted under discriminatory laws and held in custody for no crime other than expressing their identity.

The inclusion of Cooma Correctional Centre on the NSW State Heritage Register acknowledges the Gaol’s challenging history and will ensure the physical site is preserved for generations to come.

Today, as every day, we acknowledge the struggles and the resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong:

“The inclusion of Cooma Gaol on the State Heritage Register is important because it acknowledges and preserves the history of those who were unjustly treated, for generations to come.

“On behalf of the Minns Government I reiterate our apology to those who were incarcerated unjustly due to discriminatory laws for homosexual acts. 

“I am pleased to see Cooma Correctional Centre acknowledged by the NSW State Heritage Register for the unique and challenging role it played in our state’s history. 

“In the interests of not ignoring history lest we be doomed to repeat it, let us also be clear that the history of Cooma Gaol should serve as a stark warning of the perils of discrimination.”

Member for Monaro Steve Whan:

“Despite its challenging history, Cooma Gaol has been a prominent landmark for the Cooma township for generations, serving as a visible reminder of our heritage as one of the state’s original prison towns.

“I welcome the Cooma Gaol State Heritage listing as an important recognition of the Gaol’s historical significance, while noting that the current Cooma Correctional Centre will continue to operate as a modern correctional facility for the broader Cooma community.” 

Corrective Services NSW Commissioner Gary McMahon PSM:

“It’s a momentous occasion to see Cooma Correctional Centre acknowledged by the NSW State Heritage Register. 

“It’s a prison with a varied and at times dark past that must be protected for future generations.

“It is both distressing – and perhaps almost unbelievable – that such archaic attitudes could have existed as recently as 1984, when homosexuality was decriminalised in NSW.

“I am pleased to say that in 2025, it’s a past that’s long behind us.

“Discrimination and the persecution of others for their sexuality, race, religion or any other quality, has no place in society today.

“I’m honoured to see Cooma Correctional Centre receive recognition on the NSW State Heritage Register and look forward to seeing its history protected as it continues to thrive, as a valuable and dynamic part of the Snowy-Monaro region into the future.”

Cooma Gaol Historian and Journalist Patrick Abboud:

“The practices that led to inmates being incarcerated at Cooma Gaol, and the treatment they received while they were there, had lifelong impacts for all of those involved.

“Along with the Minns Government’s formal apology for the criminalisation of homosexual acts, the NSW State Heritage acknowledgement of Cooma Gaol as a place of incarceration for gay men, transwomen, and non-binary people is a step toward healing for those former inmates still living with past traumas, and the redemption of the memory of those we have lost.”

Two veteran artists have received $20,000 in NSW Government funding thanks to the Anzac Memorial Veteran Artist in Residence program.

The program offers contemporary veterans with established creative practices the opportunity to engage with the Memorial and the broader community through an artwork or project.

Thanks to support from the Veterans Benevolent Fund, for the first time two residencies have been funded with veterans Hugh Semple and Warrick Young today announced as the 2025 Veteran Artists in Residence, with each awarded $10,000.

Semple, an Army veteran of the Royal Australian Corps of Transport is a watercolour painter.

What started as a therapeutic outlet, became a passion and full-time career after Semple found refuge in art to heal and find balance after medically discharging from the Army.

Young will use the residence to assist with production of a film titled Echoes of Sacrifice, which aims to bring the Memorial’s symbolism to life through poetry, music, and archival imagery.

Young’s Army career began in 1983 with a mixture of full-time and part-time service including deployment on operations, including Iraq.

Launched in 2019, the Veteran Artist in Residence program supports current veterans in their development as artists and the use of the creative process in their healing journeys. The program also recognises the strong historic connection between art and military experience.

The use of art to depict and record Australia’s involvement in war and its impact has resulted in a vast collection of trench art, paintings, music and poetry whilst also serving as an important tool in the rehabilitation and recovery of veterans that have been affected through their military career.

More information is available on the Veteran Artist in Residence web page.

Minister for Veterans David Harris said:

“I am pleased to announce the successful recipients of this year’s Anzac Memorial Veteran Artist in Residence program.

“I want to congratulate Hugh and Warwick for presenting two amazing concepts that won them selection this year.

“Art is a powerful tool whether practised as a hobby or profession, its importance to veterans can be priceless as a form or rehabilitation or a vehicle for sharing their experiences with the broader community.

“I am glad that this year’s program has enabled two veterans to use their art to share their story or to honour service to our nation.”

Hugh Semple said:

“The artist in residency for me is a way to connect back with my military roots. I will be producing a series of watercolour paintings on veterans, and their new journey after service. I will get to surround myself with Anzac spirit on a daily basis.

“Like my own story in finding purpose, I want to show the passions that other veterans have to keep them moving positively in life outside defence. I hope through this series of paintings I can inspire other veterans to take a new direction after service, that benefits their existence and gives purpose to their lives.

“After discharging most veterans feel a loss of identity. Through art, I have rebuilt who I am and now have a lasting purpose in life. I started painting a year after my medical discharge to bring purpose to my life. I was going down a road of darkness and destructive behaviour, so I decided to do something meaningful and rewarding to bring myself on track.

“Throughout the last 4 years I have had continued interest in painting and now have made a business out of it. I am proud to now call myself an artist.”

Warwick Young said:

“I’m deeply honoured and grateful for the opportunity to be one of the veterans to feature in this program. Creating a film that reflects the meaning of sacrifice at the heart of the Anzac Memorial is not just a privilege, it’s part of my own healing, and I hope it resonates with others in the veteran community too.

“I’m genuinely excited to make this film alongside fellow veterans from the Screen Warrior Program. Together we can honour the sacrifices of those who came before us, and those still serving, in a way that feels deeply personal and connects audiences across the whole state of NSW.”

The Minns Labor Government is partnering with coal-producing regions across NSW to deliver on its election commitment to establish the Future Jobs and Investment Authority.

The Authority will help guide the future economic development of the four coal mining regions – the Hunter, Central West, Illawarra, and North West – from coal production towards other economic opportunities and employment.

The 2025-26 NSW Budget will include $27.3 million over four years to fund the Authority, initially focussing on the Hunter and Central West regions.

This initiative will be backed by the Future Jobs and Investment Fund to unlock more than $100 million in funding held back under the previous Liberal-National Government’s Royalties for Rejuvenation scheme.

As part of its remit, the Future Jobs and Investment Authority will develop a framework to allow the funding to be spent on projects like infrastructure and post-mining land use planning, skills mapping, feasibility assessments and training programs. This will be done in concert with the Federal Government’s Net Zero Economy Authority.

The Minns Labor Government will also continue its existing commitment to deliver $22.5 million into the fund each year.

The model of the Future Jobs and Investment Authority follows the release of a proposed structure in mid-2024, and ongoing consultation with workers, communities and industry. The final Authority model integrates much of the feedback received by the government.

The Future Jobs and Investment Authority will include:

• Establishing a coordinating Authority to be led by a Chief Executive Officer. The Authority will have a clear mandate to deliver tangible outcomes for coal-reliant regions.
• Establishing four local Divisions in the Hunter, Illawarra, Central West and North West to support the Authority. This will ensure direct representation to the Authority and that all decisions are informed by local needs and priorities. Local Divisions will include representatives of industry, workers, local government and community groups to ensure local voices are guiding government action.
• Assuring accountability and governance through an advisory board reporting to the Minister for Natural Resources. The advisory board will be chaired by an independent Chair/Advocate and membership will include the chairs of each Local Division.
• Collaborating with the Net Zero Economy Authority and the Commonwealth Government to streamline projects and strengthen delivery.
• Enshrining the Authority in legislation, providing long-term certainty for communities.

Currently, around 25,000 people are directly employed in coal mines. While coal mining will continue for decades to come this, highlights the importance of establishing the Authority to begin planning for a future beyond coal.

The Future Jobs and Investment Authority will prioritise:

• Facilitating strategic land use planning, land prioritisation and activation, including land previously used for mining. This will enable new and emerging employment-generating industries.
• Driving investment attraction activities to support the development of new industries in coal-producing communities.
• Developing new initiatives to ensure workers are equipped with necessary training to create a stable and secure future for them, their families and their communities.
• Undertaking detailed data collection and analysis to inform the timing of impacts on workers and the economy and drive a strong evidence-based approach to government action.
• Leading effective consultation, collaboration and partnership with local communities, and sharing that engagement across NSW Government agencies, and all three levels of government.

While coal will remain an important regional employer and economic driver for decades, global demand is forecast to decrease in coming decades. Under current planning approvals, by 2040 all four of the state’s coal-fired power stations, and 32 of the state’s 39 coal mines will close.

More information about the Future Jobs and Investment Authority is available on the Future Jobs and Investment Authority web page.

The NSW Government will legislate these changes over the coming months.

Minister for the Illawarra & the South Coast Ryan Park:

“The Future Jobs & Investment Authority will play a key role in driving job creation in this region, including in the future energy sector. The Hunter has always been the engine room of NSW – now it’s time to position ourselves as a national leader in clean energy and advanced manufacturing as well.

“We need innovative, creative job opportunities, and the Authority opens up new possibilities, setting a clear pathway for growth. The Authority will work hand-in-hand with our local communities, industry and education providers to ensure our region is at the forefront of this transformation – not left behind by it.

“This is about putting the right structures in place to support our workers today while building a stronger, more diverse economy for tomorrow. It’s about future-proofing the Hunter, ensuring that we continue to be a place of opportunity, stability and prosperity for generations to come.”

Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos:

“Thank you to workers, communities and the broader industry for their feedback as we deliver the Future Jobs and Investment Authority, a key election commitment.

“Our Future Jobs and Investment Authority will help plan for a future for our regions beyond coal. It will be a strong authority to guide government decision making. Having its work report directly to the Minister, and supported by local divisions, means voices from each region will be heard.

“We’ll be looking to the Authority to leverage its local expertise to identify and shape projects that will unlock the potential for new industrial and employment opportunities.

“Coal mining will continue to support thousands of local jobs and underpin the state’s energy grid for many years to come. As the global demand for coal decreases, we want to ensure we partner with workers, communities and regional centres to plan for the future.”

Duty MLC for Lake Macquarie Emily Suvaal:

“As I walk through my community I see and speak with so many small businesses that rely on the mining industry to provide secure jobs and economic growth.

“Mining will continue to be a massive employer to so many in the Hunter for years to come, however we must be ready for the reliance on coal to decrease.

“The establishment of the Future Jobs and Investment Authority gives everyone in mining and the supply chain time to reskill and take advantage of the new wave of opportunities coming to the Hunter.”