Category: NSW News

Sydney turned gold on Monday night as Diwali celebrations lit up the city, with the Opera House sails glowing in tribute to the Festival of Lights.

The lighting of the sails is part of the NSW Government’s annual Diwali event – first held in 2011 – at the Museum of Contemporary Art, bringing together 200 community members, faith leaders, and dignitaries.  

The evening was a vibrant celebration of colour, culture, and connection.

Diwali, or Deepavali, is celebrated across New South Wales by Hindu, Sikh, Jain and some Buddhist communities, and which signifies the power of light over darkness and good over evil.  

These communities continue to contribute immensely to New South Wales, where their positive impact across multiple areas of life enriches all of us.

Premier of NSW Chris Minns said:

“The symbolism of Diwali couldn’t be more relevant in our multicultural society than right now.

“One of Diwali’s messages is that good triumphs over evil, to come together in joy and unity, working together to overcome darkness and division.  

“On Monday night, we lit the sails of the Opera House in honour of Diwali and the communities that celebrate it.  

“The evening served as a reminder of NSW’s vibrant multiculturalism. and how celebrations like Diwali bring all different people and communities together, in a spirit of joy and unity.”

Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said:

“Diwali brings light, joy, and togetherness. It’s a time to honour tradition, celebrate community, and share in the warmth of connection.

“NSW is proud to celebrate alongside our communities and sends its warm wishes to all who mark this beautiful occasion.

“Diwali celebrations will be happening across the state, from Harris Park, Parramatta, Blacktown to Queanbeyan and Newcastle, and we encourage everyone to come along to celebrate.”  

Sydney’s train network is now less reliable than ever, leaving commuters stranded, frustrated and late. Under the Minns Labor Government, one in every ten trains has been late for almost two years straight.
 
Despite three budgets, three reports and two separate reviews, the Minns Labor Government has failed to fix the basics.
 
The latest figures obtained by the NSW Opposition through Budget Estimates show infrastructure-related defects on the rail network hit record highs between April and August this year. June alone saw 39,634 faults, followed by 38,932 in July and 38,912 in August.
 
While the former NSW Liberals and Nationals Government delivered world-class, transformative infrastructure that has changed the face of Sydney forever, Labor has shown no progress on what they deliver or do.
 
Piggy-backing on the hard work of the former government does not make you an originator. It shows a government with no ideas, no drive and no capacity to deliver its own vision for NSW.
 
Only the NSW Liberals and Nationals have the track record and the know-how to get NSW building again.
 
These figures expose a government that has chosen political spin over performance. With a Labor-appointed mate as the NSW Secretary of Transport, it stands to reason that Sydney Trains operates on a PR footing rather than a delivery footing.
 
Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said Labor’s obsession with image has replaced real management.
 
“Chris Minns promised better transport but has only delivered delays. Families are waiting longer because Labor is focused on PR, not performance. They inherited a world-class network and turned it into a reliability crisis,” Mr Speakman said.
 
Shadow Minister for Transport and Roads Natalie Ward said the Minns Labor Government puts politics before passengers.
 
“The Minns Government talks about accountability but delivers excuses. With a Labor insider running Transport, the focus is media management, not commuter outcomes. Sydney Trains has become a PR machine while commuters pay the price,” Ms Ward said.
 
The NSW Opposition is calling on the Minns Labor Government to prioritise investment in maintenance, reliability and performance to restore confidence in Sydney’s transport network and deliver the service commuters expect in a global city.

As students and teachers settle back into classrooms, the Minns Labor Government is copying the Coalition’s homework by falsely claiming Labor built the schools across Western Sydney to which they are returning.
 
The Premier and Acting Education Minister put out a media release this morning saying the area was “neglected” under the former government, when in fact more than $2 billion was invested in 50 new and upgraded school projects before the 2023 election.
 
Some of the projects Labor is trying to take credit for includes Darcy Road Public School, Carlingford West, Cumberland, Girraween, Melrose Park, Parramatta East, Rydalmere, Telopea, Wentworth Point and Westmead, which were all funded and approved by the Liberals and Nationals.
 
Piggy-backing on the hard work of the former government does not make you an originator. It shows a government with no ideas, no drive and no capacity to deliver its own vision for NSW.
 
Only the NSW Liberals and Nationals have the track record and the know-how to get NSW building again.
 
Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said the Government has no ideas, no drive and no capacity to deliver its own vision for the state.
 
“The Minns Labor Government is claiming credit for projects it did not start, that were funded by the former government that believed in building for the future. You don’t earn credibility by cutting ribbons on someone else’s work. You earn it by delivering your own,” Mr Speakman said.
 
Shadow Education Minister Sarah Mitchell wished all students well for Term 4 and said they shouldn’t be distracted by Labor’s constant lies.
 
“Parents, students and teachers deserve transparency and honesty and should be concerned by the fact the school infrastructure pipeline has dried up under this government. It’s all good and well to bombard people with media releases, but what’s more important is ensuring there’s a strong future for education in NSW,” Mrs Mitchell said. 
 
Member for Winston Hills Mark Taylor said Darcy Road Public School sits right in the heart of his electorate, and every parent knows it was the Coalition that made the project a reality.
 
“Too often Labor’s ‘facts’ and figures don’t add up, but its media spin can’t hide the truth.  It’s the Liberals and Nationals that have the track record and the know-how to get things building again instead of delivering empty slogans,” Mr Taylor said.
 
Member for Epping Monica Tudehope said families want less talk and more things delivered.
 
“This desperate announcement today is a classic case of smoke and mirrors and shows a government completely out of its depth and running out of ideas,” Ms Tudehope said.
 
Member for Ryde Jordan Lane said in the Ryde electorate locals can see right through this performance.
 
“The projects Labor lists were already locked in and funded by the Liberals and Nationals and things have slowed to a crawl in the past two years under this do-nothing government,” Mr Lane said. 

The Minns Labor Government is continuing its mission to build a safer New South Wales and crack down on crime, with the official reopening of the historic Kiama Police Station today.

Following the temporary closure of the station from 27 April to 2 September 2025 to undergo works, today marks another step in building community confidence and giving police the tools they need to keep people safe.

Works include essential roof and interior repairs, including the replacement of roof sheets and guttering, the removal of damaged skylights, mould remediation, repainting and new carpeting.

Kiama will continue to be serviced 24-hours a day by the Lake Illawarra Police District with officers patrolling in fully equipped police vehicles that function as mobile police stations.

These patrols ensure round-the-clock coverage for the community and surrounding areas, backed by specialist units and intelligence-based deployments as needed.

This investment in Kiama is part of the Minns Labor Government’s broader plan to rebuild the NSW Police Force and strengthen policing across the state.

After more than a decade of neglect, we’re focused on delivering the resources, support and reforms needed to attract new recruits, retain experienced officers and give police the tools they need to keep communities safe.

The former Liberal-National Government had no plan for police recruitment, no plan for police retention and sent wages backwards for more than a decade. Thousands of experienced officers left the force as a result.

We are working hard to rebuild the NSWPF and create safer communities. While there is more to do, that work includes:

• Delivering a once-in-a-generation pay rise for police officers
• Establishing an historic scheme to pay recruits to train, resulting in a 70 per cent increase in applications to join the NSWPF
• Establishing the Be a Cop in Your Hometown program
• Establishing the Professional Mobility Program to incentivise experienced officers from interstate and New Zealand to join the NSWPF.

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said:

“The Kiama Police Station has stood the test of time and remains a much-loved part of this beautiful town.

“Face-to-face interaction with police is important for many people, and this building provides just that. It stands as a place of connection for the community and complements the outstanding work of officers across the Lake Illawarra Police District.

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to backing our police with the safe workplaces, facilities and resources they need to keep communities right across the South Coast safe.”

Member-elect for Kiama Katelin McInerney said:

“The Kiama Police Station is part of the fabric of our town, and it’s fantastic to see this historic building back open and serving the community.

“These works mean our local police have a safe and clean workplace, and our community continues to have a welcoming, accessible point of contact.”

The Minns Labor Government has announced applications for the $1 million Port Kembla Community Investment Fund will open next Monday (20 October) with local groups and business encouraged to apply for grants of up to $250,000.

Grants are available for a range of projects that help activate or enhance the port, boost visitation and tourism, create strong community bonds and increase participation in cultural and artistic life.

The Fund sets out to deliver high-quality projects that:

• foster stronger community bonds
• enhance accessibility
• boost visitation
• increase participation in cultural and artistic life
• enhance public, environmental or business infrastructure.

In the past the program has delivered projects including the Port Kembla Community Skate Park, which features a new skate bowl, skate space and basketball courts, upgrades to the Port Kembla Surf Club as well as the Keeping Culture Alive Hall upgrade and improved Marine Rescue Port Kembla facilities.

The program supports projects between $10,000 and $250,000 and applications will open on Monday 20 October 2025 and close on Monday 15 December 2025.

To increase opportunities for investment in the Port Kembla area the Minns Government has adjusted the area of eligibility to include the suburbs of Port Kembla, Cringila, and parts of Warrawong and Lake Heights to maximise the benefit to local organisations.

For further information about the program, including guidelines and eligibility criteria, go to www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/port-kembla-community-investment-fund.

Minister for Illawara and South Coast, Ryan Park said

“The Port Kembla is an economic powerhouse and one of the fastest growing and most exciting regions in NSW.

“This fund is about giving communities access to resources that will build a more vibrant community.

“The Minns Labor Government is investing heavily in the region, and this is just the latest initiative designed to ensure local communities and businesses continues to succeed.”

Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“Port Kembla drives the local economy and is a major employer in the Illawarra.

“The NSW Government is proud to back transformative projects that will revitalise and energise Port Kembla and the surrounding area, bring people together and strengthen local connections.

“This funding round is about empowering the Port Kembla community to shape its own future, whether through cultural celebration, improved public spaces or events that bring people together.

“Investing in Port Kembla means investing in jobs, creativity and connection. These projects will help unlock the area’s full potential and ensure it remains a vibrant place to live, work and visit.

Member for Wollongong, Paul Scully said:

“We’re committed to making Port Kembla a place where opportunity thrives, where infrastructure meets imagination and community-led ideas become reality.

“This helps with the ongoing rebuild and revitalisation of facilities in and around Port Kembla.

“The projects supported through this round will leave a lasting mark on Port Kembla’s landscape and identity.”

City of Wollongong Mayor, Tania Brown said:

“Port Kembla is a thriving and vibrant community. This fund offers a way for enterprising businesses and community organisations to get a funding boost which supports innovation and activation within this community.

“I welcome the expansion of the fund to include Cringila, and parts of Warrawong and Lake Heights as a postcode doesn’t define a community, and these suburbs have close and tightknit networks that can come together for the greater good.’’

Port Kembla Chamber of Commerce President, Jonathan Crowe said:

“The Port Kembla Community Infrastructure Fund has been a game-changer for our suburb. The recent opening of the new Port Kembla Skate Park is a perfect example of how this funding can create spaces that bring people together, energise our community, and give young people a place to connect and be active. We’ve seen firsthand how these projects build pride and momentum in our community.

“The next round of the Port Kembla Community Infrastructure Fund presents another exciting opportunity to invest in our future. The benefits of previous funding have already made Port Kembla a more welcoming and dynamic place to live, visit and do business. Continued investment like this helps our community thrive.”

The Minns Labor Government is continuing to support local business and organisations in Macarthur and southwest Sydney by recently running a forum in Campbelltown which advised small businesses on how they can better navigate the workers compensation system, how to handle claims and offered information on return-to-work programs.

The forum run by icare provided over 100 local businesses with practical advice, resources and insights all geared towards helping better manage their premiums as well as information on injury prevention, early intervention and recovery support for mental health at work.

Small businesses are the lifeblood of the NSW economy, contributing over $535 billion every year.

The South-West Sydney region has over 26,000 businesses that employ over 220,000 people. Gross incurred workers compensation cost per year in the region is almost $300 million.

The forum included information on how premiums are calculated, what business owners can do to support their staff’s wellbeing and provided advice on return-to-work strategies.

The multi-session day highlighted the importance of understanding workplace obligations and featured speakers from the NSW Government, icare, and SafeWork NSW covering topics such as Savings & Incentives for Small Business, Mentally Healthy Workplaces & Understanding your psychosocial obligations and Understanding your Experience-Rated Employer Premium to minimise costs.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to fixing the state’s workers compensation system to ensure a sustainable scheme that works for the state’s injured workers and businesses who pay the premiums.

The Government workers compensation reform package is still stuck in the Parliament. The package passed the Legislative Assembly in early June, before being delayed by the Opposition.

Every day reform is delayed the workers compensation system deteriorates further.

• Just 50 per cent of workers with a psychological injury can return to work within a year, compared to 95 per cent of workers with a physical injury.
• The private sector scheme is going backwards by $6 million per day. It is soon expected to hold only 80 cents in assets for every dollar it will have to pay in claims.
• Absent reform, 340,000 NSW businesses will have to pay a 36 per cent increase in premiums over the next three years even if they have no claims against them.

The Minns Labor government is committed to increasing engagement with small business in line with its reforms.

Employers in NSW can register for future events online or immediately access a range of free, easy-to-use tools from icare’s Small Business Hub.

The icare online Mental Health Hub, provides employers with free tools, resources, and guidance to support their workforce, manage claims and help tackle these costs

For more information about upcoming icare outreach events, visit the website.

Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said:

“I’m pleased to have attended this important forum in Campbelltown where there is a real need to provide support and information for businesses of all sizes. Icare experts were in attendance to provide important advice, tips, tools and useful information. This one-on-one engagement is critical.

“Helping local employers support their workers to stay safe, return to work quickly and get home safely at the end of every day not only safeguards workers’ health, but saves them money.

“The NSW Government has introduced legislation to reform the Workers Compensation System and our Workplace Health and Safety system to improve the prevention and treatment of psychological injuries which occur at work. This includes increasing the Government’s outreach to small businesses so they can better navigate a complex system.

“The NSW Government’s 2025-26 Budget announcement strengthened the state’s work health and safety regulator with a major $127.7 million investment over the next four years to address psychosocial hazards and compliance and enforcement of safe work practices.”

Member for Campbelltown Greg Warren said:

“Small businesses are the lifeblood of our region. It is important that we support them to find ways to successfully navigate the Workers Compensation system.

“I wish to sincerely thank the local business community for their collaboration and assistance to put this event together. Their commitment to finding smarter, more efficient ways to operate is what keeps the local economy moving.”

Member for Camden Sally Quinnell said:

“The Camden community is home to some incredible and thriving small businesses, from restaurants to retail and everything in between.

“It’s imperative that our government ensures these businesses are supported, as they are the heart and soul of our communities – and we wouldn’t be on the map without them.”

Member for Wollondilly Judy Hannan said:

“This event is an important initiative to help local businesses in Wollondilly to continue to thrive and prosper.

“The information session on how to manage claims were invaluable for businesses to help with their costs.

“I would like to thank Minister Cotsis for helping stage this event and for her continued support.”

President Campbelltown Business Chamber Shefali Pall said:

“Events like this in Campbelltown are crucial for equipping local business owners with practical tools, expert advice, and cost-saving strategies that make a real difference.

“We’re committed to ensuring local businesses have every opportunity to grow and thrive.

“I’d like to thank Minister Cotsis for her strong advocacy and continued support.”

icare Manager Mobile Engagement Team Adam O’Leary said:

“Psychosocial injury claims have increased sharply in recent years, particularly in high pressure roles and people facing industries.

“This event was about equipping business owners with practical strategies to reduce risks, meet WHS obligations, and support their people through recovery, because healthier workplaces are stronger workplaces.”

The Illawarra was the heart of netball this weekend as more than 70 teams came together for the 2025 Netball NSW Masters State Titles and Aware Super Social Masters, celebrating fierce competition, friendship, and the enduring spirit of the game.

In a thrilling display of skill and connection, Eastwood Ryde were crowned 2025 Netball NSW Masters State Champions, successfully defending their title in a weekend that showcased both elite netball and incredible camaraderie. Baulkham Hills claimed runner-up honours after two days of high-quality matches.

Eastwood Ryde – 2025 Netball NSW State Masters Champions

Eastwood Ryde captain Emily Keenan, said the win was particularly rewarding.

It’s such a privilege to play together again and to defend our title against so many strong teams,” Keenan said. “It’s been a brilliant weekend. The netball standard was amazing – every game tested us. Masters is about so much more than results; it’s about reconnecting, sharing memories and celebrating the game we all love.”

Stacy Harding, General Manager Competitions at Netball NSW, congratulated all participants and praised the Illawarra community for hosting an exceptional event.

The Masters State Titles continues to be one of the most anticipated events on our calendar,” Harding said.

From Australian Diamonds legends to Premier League stars and lifelong club players, the level of competition and camaraderie this weekend was outstanding. Congratulations to Eastwood Ryde on a well-deserved win, and thank you to the Illawarra Netball Association for creating such a memorable experience for everyone involved.”

Hosted at the Illawarra Netball Association’s Indoor Sports Centre, the tournament featured 11 associations, including strong local representation with two Illawarra teams, as well as contenders from Gosford, Shoalhaven, Port Stephens and Manly Warringah.

Combined Illawarra Teams – 2025 Netball NSW Masters State Titles

Running alongside the State Titles, the Aware Super Social Masters brought a different kind of energy to the courts — a mix of sport, music, laughter and themed fun that only Masters netball can deliver.

More than 60 teams, with players aged between 35 and 65, took part in two days of competition and connection, proving that passion for the game doesn’t fade with time. The legendary “Back to School” themed Saturday night social at the University of Wollongong’s UniBar was a crowd favourite, with trivia, dancing and plenty of nostalgic costumes.

For the first time, Aware Super came on board as presenting partner, supporting an event that celebrates community as much as competition.

The Aware Super Social Masters is so much more than a tournament – it’s a celebration of stories, laughter and lifelong friendships,” said Harding. “It reminds us that netball is for everyone, at every age and stage.”

Crowd favourites included the local Illawarra Flames, who shone on and off the court, and the beloved Birrong “Six Over Sixty”, who have been part of the Social Masters since 2013 continue to inspire with their enduring love of the game.

Birrong ‘SOS’ Team – 2025 Aware Super Social Masters

Birrong SOS captain Raelene Allen said her team relished every moment of the weekend.

We might be the ‘old girls’, but we still love the game, the laughs, and the feeling of being part of something special,” Allen has said.

The Hunter & Central Coast region has been crowned winners of the 2025 Netball NSW Regional State Cup, finishing top of the ladder after a fiercely contested weekend of netball at Netball Central, Sydney Olympic Park.

Across two days of round-robin play, each team faced one another twice, with the Hunter & Central Coast demonstrating outstanding consistency and teamwork to secure the title.

The tournament came down to a thrilling final round clash between Hunter & Central Coast and Riverina — a true battle for the crown. A win to Hunter & Central Coast would seal the title outright, while a Riverina victory would have resulted in a draw, with Hunter & Central Coast only holding the edge on percentage thanks to a margin of just one point separating the two teams on for and against.

2025 Champions – Hunter & Central Coast – Netball NSW Regional State Cup

I’m incredibly proud of this group — they’ve shown composure, grit and genuine belief in each other all weekend,” said Hunter & Central Coast coach Lauren Hill.

Every athlete played their role and lifted when it mattered most. To see them come together from different associations and perform at this level is really special. This win is a reflection of the hard work happening across our region and the depth of talent coming through.”

The event brought together the best emerging netball talent from six powerhouse regions — Hunter & Central Coast, North Coast, North West, Riverina, South Coast and West Central West — with athletes aged 16 to 22 competing in a high-performance environment that mirrors the Netball NSW Premier League U23s.

2025 Runners Up – Riverina – Netball NSW Regional State Cup

Netball NSW General Manager of Performance and Pathways, Mardi Aplin, congratulated all teams on an outstanding weekend of netball.

The Regional State Cup is about showcasing regional pride and giving athletes, coaches and officials from across New South Wales the chance to experience an elevated level of competition,” Aplin said.

The standard of play this weekend was exceptional, and it’s exciting to see so many athletes pushing themselves and each other to reach that next level.”

The 2025 Netball NSW Regional State Cup Team of the Tournament was also announced, recognising standout athletes who demonstrated excellence, leadership and consistency throughout the weekend.

The 2025 Netball NSW Regional State Cup once again highlighted the strength of regional netball and the crucial role these competitions play in developing the state’s future stars.

2025 Netball NSW Regional State Cup Results
Winners: Hunter & Central Coast
Runners-Up: Riverina
Followed by: Third – South Coast, Fourth – West Central West, Fifth – North Coast, Sixth – North West

Team of the Tournament – 2025 Netball NSW Regional State Cup

2025 Netball NSW Regional State Cup – Team of the Tournament
Jade Stringer – Hunter and Central Coast
Brooke Buckley – Riverina
Molly Brownell – Hunter and Central Coast
Ash Reynoldson – Riverina
Tahlia Quinn – Riverina
Emma McCallum – Hunter and Central Coast
Isabella Christian – South Coast
Marley Aplin – West Central West
Eve Power – Hunter and Central Coast
Ava Francisco – West Central West
Sally Werfel – South Coast
Kate Wallace – Riverina
Mia Lewis – West Central West – Umpire

The Minns Labor Government is launching a month-long compliance blitz campaign in October with a specific focus on forklift safety with over 250 SafeWork inspectors travelling across regional and metropolitan NSW to conduct unannounced checks.

The initiative is part of National Safe Work month and follows several injuries and fatalities, including a tragic forklift death last month in Sydney’s east.

Mobile plant, vehicles and fixed machinery is one of SafeWork NSW’s five regulatory priorities and is a leading cause of traumatic injuries and fatalities in workplaces.

Since January 2024, more than 600 forklift incidents have been reported to SafeWork NSW. Four of these tragically resulted in a fatality, while two thirds were considered dangerous, where there was no injury to a worker but there was a potential of harm being caused. 

70 per cent of these forklift incidents occurred in the manufacturing, postal, transport and warehousing industries. 

Incidents involving forklifts include collisions, rollovers, and objects falling off forklifts and often have serious and life changing consequences.

The Safe Work Month Compliance blitz will also cover SafeWork NSW’s other regulatory priorities which cause the greatest risk to workers including: 

• Falls from heights
• Harms to workers in the health care and social assistance sector
• Managing psychosocial risks at work – including sexual harassment
• Exposure to hazardous substances including asbestos, crystalline silica and welding fumes

Business owners and workers can access a range of resources to help manage the risks of working with forklifts on the SafeWork NSW website at: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/hazards-a-z/forklifts. 

For more information on National Safe Work Month, visit the Safe Work Australia website at https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/national-safe-work-month. 

Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said:

“SafeWork NSW’s month-long compliance blitz in October is a timely reminder that safety non-negotiable and should be the top priority for anyone operating a forklift.

“On average every year, one worker loses their life every week in the workplace. That’s one death too many.

“This compliance blitz builds on the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to make SafeWork NSW a tougher cop on the beat and follows a major $127.7 million investment over the next four years to address psychosocial hazards and compliance and enforcement of safe work practices.  

“Every worker has the right to go to work and return home safely to their loved ones.”

Member for Leppington Nathan Hagarty said:

“Every forklift incident is one too many. With so many industrial businesses in the Leppington electorate, safety must always be front and centre.

“These checks are about making sure every worker goes home safely at the end of the day—because no job, deadline or sense of urgency is worth a life.”

SafeWork Commissioner Janet Schorer said:

“Work health and safety is an everyday priority, and we should not limit ourselves to taking the correct precautions to one month a year.  

“Forklifts are used in construction sites across NSW daily, yet every year they continue to contribute workplace deaths and injuries that often result in substantial human and financial costs for workers, industry and the community. 

“SafeWork NSW remains committed to supporting industry and workplaces in keeping their workers safe and inspectors will be out in full force to ensure businesses with workers using mobile plant, vehicles or fixed machinery such forklifts are engaging with the proper practises for keeping safer workplaces.” 

Fourteen newly trained Extended Care Paramedics (ECPs) have been deployed across the state following the successful completion of their training program at the NSW Ambulance State Operations Centre.

Extended Care Paramedics are paramedics already registered with NSW Ambulance who complete additional training and bring with them a diverse range of clinical backgrounds and experience.

After undertaking a 10-week intensive education program, which includes two weeks clinical placement on the road and at a hospital, the new ECPs will commence on road as independent clinicians from next week.

ECPs are paramedics who have the knowledge and skills required to care for patients with conditions suitable for alternative clinical pathways to an emergency department, where it is safe and clinically appropriate to do so.  

The class of fourteen new ECPs includes June Munday, a NSW Ambulance paramedic for five years most recently in Central West NSW, and Peter Wilson, a NSW Ambulance paramedic for more than 25 years, who is trained as a special operations and rescue paramedic.

This marks the 26th Extended Care Paramedic (ECP) course delivered by NSW Ambulance since the program began in 2007.

ECPs are now based across metropolitan Sydney, the Illawarra, Central Coast, Inner Hunter and, through a pilot program, on the North Coast. They can also be deployed to areas of greatest need, as demonstrated during the recovery phase following severe weather events on the Mid North Coast and in Hunter New England earlier this year.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to building an engaged, capable and supported workforce, by:

• Abolishing the wages cap and delivering the largest wage increase to healthcare workers in a decade;
• Recruiting and deploying 500 regional paramedics;
• Implementing ratios in our emergency departments;
• Saving 1,112 nurses which the Liberal Government planned to sack; and
• Supporting our future health workforce through providing them with study subsidies.

Minister for Health, Ryan Park: 

“Extended Care Paramedics play a vital role in giving patients more options for safe and appropriate treatment outside of busy emergency departments.

“I want to congratulate this new class of Extended Care Paramedics and thank them for their dedication to delivering quality care for people in their time of need.

“More staff, lower response times, better patient outcomes – it’s as simple as that. 

NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan: 

“Our Extended Care Paramedics are a prime example of how NSW Ambulance continues to innovate to deliver better care for our patients. ECPs provide options that keep people well and supported in the community.

“This new intake of Extended Care Paramedics have shown outstanding commitment, skill and compassion throughout their training, and these qualities will make a real difference to the people of NSW.”

Extended Care Paramedic June Munday: 

“The part of the job I love the most is patient care, spending time with people and building a real rapport. Becoming an Extended Care Paramedic means I can do more of that while giving patients safe alternatives to hospital when it’s appropriate.

“This role is about empowering patients with information and options, while continuing to grow my own skills.”

“It’s rewarding to know we can provide the right care in the right setting and make a genuine difference in people’s lives.”

Extended Care Paramedic Peter Wilson:

“After more than 20 years as a paramedic, the knowledge I’ve gained through this course has been incredible. ECPs take a broad, holistic approach to patient care that really complements the work I’ve done across special operations.

“I’m looking forward to applying these skills in my local community and working closely with allied health providers to deliver care that keeps them safe and supported outside hospital where appropriate.”