Eighth Bali Process Ministerial Conference in Adelaide

Tomorrow we will welcome representatives from across the world to Adelaide for the Eighth Ministerial Conference of the Bali Process on People Smuggling, Trafficking in Persons and Related Transnational Crime.

This is the first time the Bali Process Ministerial Conference has been held outside of Indonesia. Foreign Minister Penny Wong will Co-Chair the conference with Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi.

The Bali Process is the pre-eminent regional forum on these issues and brings together governments, senior officials and business leaders to build new connections and strengthen existing partnerships.

International cooperation is critical for tackling people smuggling, human trafficking and modern slavery. Australia is committed to working with partners in our region to build awareness and help countries strengthen their responses.

For the Third Government and Business Forum of the Bali Process we will be joined by business co-chairs Dr Andrew Forrest of Australia and Pak Garibaldi Thohir of Indonesia.

Cooperation between government and the business community is vital to combating human trafficking and modern slavery.

Reflecting the Australian Government’s focus on ending all forms of modern slavery, at home and abroad, we are today announcing the role of Australia’s Ambassador for People Smuggling and Human Trafficking will be expanded and assume the new title of Ambassador to Counter Modern Slavery, People Smuggling and Human Trafficking.

More information about the Bali Process.

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong said:

“I look forward to welcoming my Indonesian counterpart and friend, Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi, to Adelaide and to reaffirming our close partnership. 

“As Co-Chairs of the Bali Process, Australia and Indonesia work closely together to help countries in our region address the abhorrent crimes of people smuggling, human trafficking and other forms of modern slavery.

“We will work to end modern slavery in every country.”

Attorney-General, the Hon Mark Dreyfus KC MP said:

“As a leader in countering human trafficking and people smuggling, Australia’s role as Co-Chair of the Bali Process complements our domestic reforms to tackle modern slavery, including human trafficking.

“Some of these domestic efforts include strengthening our Modern Slavery Act 2018 (Cth), which is currently undergoing a statutory review, and establishing an Anti-Slavery Commissioner to work with business, civil society, NGOs and State and Territory governments.”

Minister for Home Affairs, the Hon Clare O’Neil MP said:

“A whole of region approach is essential to countering these transnational crimes.”

“Home Affairs is proud to co-chair the Bali Process’ Technical Experts on Returns and Reintegration Working Group, and partner with Indonesia to deliver the Regional Support Office (RSO).

“The RSO is the only cooperation mechanism of its kind in the Asia Pacific region, drawing on policy knowledge, technical expertise and operational experience from Bali Process Members and other key stakeholders to develop practical initiatives.”

Suspension of the Joint Investigation into the downing of Flight MH17

The Australian Government acknowledges the announcement by the Netherlands Public Prosecution Service and the MH17 Joint Investigation Team that they will suspend their investigation into additional individuals responsible for the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17.

Russia’s illegal and immoral invasion of Ukraine and its lack of cooperation with the investigation have rendered ongoing investigative efforts and the collection of evidence impossible at this time.

Australia has been steadfast in our enduring commitment to seeking truth, justice, and accountability for the victims of the downing of MH17.

Today’s announcement will be distressing for many. Our thoughts remain with those who lost their lives, their families and loved ones, and we acknowledge the distress they will be feeling with this announcement.

We note the recent convictions of three individuals found responsible for the downing of MH17 and murder of 298 people, 38 of whom called Australia home.

We commend the work and professionalism of the Joint Investigation Team officials, including the Australian Federal Police, who have conducted rigorous investigations to support bringing those responsible to justice.

The findings of the District Court of The Hague unequivocally and conclusively establish Russia’s responsibility for the downing of MH17.

Australia remains committed to pursuing our ongoing case with the Netherlands in the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to hold Russia to account for its role in the downing of the civilian aircraft.

New program to boost social connections for seniors

From device advice to help seniors stay safely connected online to active outdoor sessions, a new program designed to reduce isolation and loneliness among seniors was announced today by City of Newcastle.

The Connections for Ageing Well program will be delivered in partnership with Hunter Medical Research Institute and Hunter Ageing Alliance and has been awarded $47,200 in grant funding by the NSW Government’s Department of Communities and Justice.

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The announcement was made today at a senior’s expo and comedy gala at City Hall, delivered as part of NSW Seniors Festival 2023. Presented by CN and Comedy for a Cause, well-known comedian and recent Member of the Order of Australia recipient Jean Kitson headlined the comedy gala attended by more than 200 local senior citizens.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the Connections for Ageing Well program will focus on connecting seniors with community groups for sustainable relationships, with expert advice and skill building for ageing well, managing health and creating social connections.

“Our senior citizens make a significant contribution to our society and help to create a more inclusive and broader community here in Newcastle,” Cr Nelmes said.

“The needs of an ageing population also create a range of challenges, with many seniors in our community facing isolation and loneliness, especially in recent times as a direct result of COVID-19.

“Together with Hunter Medical Research Institute and Hunter Ageing Alliance, City of Newcastle is committed to delivering this vital program to combat isolation and loneliness with meaningful social connections for seniors, in line with CN’s draft Local Social Strategy 2023-2030.

“It’s these sorts of initiatives like today’s expo and comedy gala that strengthen social connections while playing a significant role in the mental health and wellbeing of seniors in our community.”

Emeritus Professor Julie Byles and chair at the Hunter Ageing Alliance (HAA) said the program will deliver positive physical, intellectual, and social outcomes for the region’s ageing citizens.

“Connections provide opportunities to get out, meet other people, and to learn new skills for ageing well, stay active, social, and adapt positively to the changes of later life,” Professor Byles said.

In addition to the program providing multiple benefits for older people, Head of Philanthropy Giavanna Angeli at Hunter Medical Research Institute said important research will be gathered.

“The program will also inform research on successful activities and programs that support social connectedness amongst older people and improve their wellbeing,” Dr Angeli said.

“HMRI is looking forward to working with City of Newcastle and Hunter Ageing Alliance to deliver a successful project that brings benefits to a vulnerable group in our community.”

Seniors can also make the most of the annual Newcastle Seniors Directory online, with targeted information about services and community-based organisations who connect with older Novocastrians.

During NSW Seniors Festival 2023, which reaches up to 500,000 seniors each year, government, community and commercial organisations hold hundreds of events across the state. Full details for all local events can be found online at www.seniorsfestival.nsw.gov.au

Pop powerhouse becomes latest global music star to set sights on Newcastle 

Newcastle has scored a coveted spot on the upcoming world tour of American pop powerhouse Pink, who will take to the stage at McDonald Jones Stadium on February 13 next year.

The Summer Carnival Tour, presented by Live Nation, is the latest event secured as part of City of Newcastle’s Major Events Partnership with Venues NSW.

McDonald Jones Stadium venue manager Dean Mantle and Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes celebrate the announcement Pink will bring her world tour to Newcastle next year.

The announcement follows hot on the heels of two unforgettable performances by global music icon Elton John, who wowed 50,000 fans in Newcastle last month.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the Pink concert will be the hottest ticket in town, drawing fans from far and wide to help deliver another multimillion-dollar windfall for Newcastle.

“Elton John’s visit demonstrated just how beneficial these world-class events are for our city, injecting $14 million into the local economy with more than 75 per cent of the concertgoers coming from outside of Newcastle,” Cr Nelmes said,

“This included 16,000 people from outside of the Hunter as well as interstate and international visitors, which plays an essential role in boosting tourism around the event, as well as encouraging repeat visitation in the future.

“With the success of Elton John’s visit and the news of Pink’s upcoming tour, which is expected to deliver a $9 million boost to local businesses, Newcastle has officially become a must stop destination on the national concert tour schedule.”

Venues NSW and McDonald Jones Stadium CEO Kerrie Mather said it was exciting to team up with Live Nation to bring Pink to McDonald Jones Stadium for the first time.

“It’s now well known among promoters and artists around the world that Newcastle is home to a fantastic stadium that delivers extraordinary experiences for patrons and artists alike,” Ms Mather said.

“Pink’s live shows are something that must be seen to be believed, and we can’t wait to welcome the music icon to Newcastle early next year.”

Major events are a key part of City of Newcastle’s Destination Management Plan as a primary driver of the local tourism economy, which was worth $1.27 billion pre-COVID.

Since announcing the Major Event Partnership in July last year, City of Newcastle and Venues NSW have worked together to attract a number of national and international events to McDonald Jones Stadium and the Newcastle Entertainment Centre including the Elton John concerts, the Australian Supercross Championship, an international netball match between Australia and England, as well as the upcoming Cup of Nations women’s football double header featuring Czechia, Spain, Jamaica and the Matildas.

NSW Leading Digital Solutions for Working With Children Checks

The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is utilising digital technology to improve the renewal process for Working with Children Checks by piloting the use of photo verification to offer a new convenient and secure online government service.

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said enabling people the option to securely prove who they are online anywhere, anytime will save customers valuable time.

“There are more than 1.8 million customers in New South Wales who currently hold a Working with Children Check, which is required to be renewed every five years. Until now, customers would need to go into a Service NSW Centre to verify who they are in order to renew it,” Mr Dominello said.

“Having the choice to complete a digital photo verification, customers will now be able to complete their Working with Children Check renewal online instead of attending in person, which will save them on average about two hours per check.

“The innovative technology relies on customers to use their desktop, laptop or phone camera to verify their real-time photo image against their own government-issued ID, which ensures their identity remains safe, and is not being imitated online by scammers or hackers.”

Minister for Families and Communities, and Minister for Disability Services Natasha Maclaren-Jones said results of the pilot phase would optimise the final experience for customers as part of the state-wide rollout.

“This pilot will help unlock greater accessibility to government services, particularly for customers with a disability, those who are time poor or living in rural or regional areas where it can be difficult to access a Service NSW Centre in person,” Mrs Maclaren-Jones said.

“We want to make sure this service delivers for all customers and with the technical foundations in place and tests underway, we look forward to hearing participant feedback and identifying opportunities for further enhancements.”

The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government has allocated $2.1 billion across four years to the Digital Restart Fund to build smart, simple technology solutions for customers across the State.

For more information on the NSW Digital Identity and Verifiable Credentials program go to: https://www.nsw.gov.au/nsw-government/projects-and-initiatives/nsw-digital-id

Next stop for Central Station restoration

Plans for the Sydney Terminal Building revitalisation are now open for public feedback, detailing the proposal for customer and community experience improvements, heritage restoration and new retail, dining and events spaces. 

The plans will transform hidden spaces such as the storeroom and loading dock into a multi-purpose event space and thriving marketplace, connecting previously inaccessible areas and creating a world class transport interchange.

Minister for Infrastructure Rob Stokes said the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) now on public exhibition reflects early feedback about the need to improve wayfinding and accessibility, retail offerings and heritage restoration.

“Central Station is Sydney’s gateway to the regions. The magnificent colonnade and clocktower are a centerpiece of our state to be celebrated,” Mr Stokes said.

“The sandstone walls of the Sydney Terminal Building have witnessed so many moments of Australian history, great and small.  So many farewells and reunions that have formed the collective memory of NSW.

“Heritage enhancements come with modernisation, introducing Wi-Fi connectivity, charging points for commuters and a brand new event space for live music, public art and pop-up events.”

The EIS will outline the proposed renewal of the Sydney Terminal Building, including the loading dock, Grand Concourse, Booking Hall and the Central Electric Building.

In addition to the creation of new social spaces for the community, the revitalisation will also prioritise new and improved pedestrian connections including new lifts, stairs and escalators to provide convenient and direct pedestrian connectivity.

The community will be able to provide feedback from February 8 to March 8 2023 which will inform a decision by the Minister for Planning on the project. If approved, construction could start this year and would take around three years to complete.  To have your say on the Sydney Terminal Building EIS go to: www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/projects/sydney-terminal-building-revitalisation

New infrastructure to accelerate 140,000 homes

The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is investing $250 million into essential infrastructure across the state to support the delivery of close to 140,000 new homes. 

This funding will deliver new cycleways and active transport options in Parramatta and Ryde, road and bridge improvements in regional NSW, and sewerage upgrades on the Central Coast to enable more homes needed to cater for growing communities.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said an initial 36 councils and agency-led projects will receive funding through the third round of the Accelerated Infrastructure Fund (AIF).

“We are fast-tracking the delivery of essential infrastructure required to speed up the construction of thousands of new homes right across our state,” Mr Perrottet said. 

“This is part of our strategy to get people into homes faster by cutting red tape, speeding up development applications and boosting construction by getting more shovels into the ground sooner.

“Our long term economic plan is delivering major infrastructure projects for the future and will support communities as they grow.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the new funding builds on a $215 million investment from the Government in the first two rounds of the program, with eligibility extended to regional councils for the first time.

“We know that getting infrastructure right is the key to unlocking land for housing in regional NSW, which is why we have allocated almost $120 million for regional councils in this round, including fast growing areas in the Central West and the Mid-North Coast,” Mr Toole said.

“The areas eligible for this funding account for 94 per cent of NSW’s total population growth over the next 10 years, according to the latest population projections.

“Towns across regional NSW are booming, with more and more people moving away from the city. These projects will help set the foundations for future growth.”

Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts said the councils successful in this round of the AIF will also provide their own funding for projects, amounting to a combined $517 million worth of infrastructure on the way for NSW. 

“We had an outstanding response from regional councils eager to work in partnership with the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government to unlock land for new homes faster and boost economic growth. We share their ambition and look forward to working together,” Mr Roberts said. 

The Accelerated Infrastructure Fund is part of the $2.8 billion NSW Housing Package, announced in the 2022-2023 NSW State Budget.

For further details and the complete list of projects visit the AIF webpage here.

Delivering road safety for Randwick pedestrians

Liberal candidate for Coogee, Dr Kylie von Muenster, has been campaigning for pedestrian safety in Randwick, and has welcomed the Perrottet Government’s decision to install new signage near two bus stops on Avoca Street.

Following a review of road safety on Avoca Street near Bundock Street and Sturt Street, two pedestrian warning signs will be put in place in Bundock Street and one on the approach to Sturt Street, to warn motorists of foot traffic in the area.

“We care about the safety of every person using our roads, whether motorists or pedestrians or cyclists, and have always been prepared to invest in keeping our community safe,” Dr von Muenster said.

“With three schools nearby – Rainbow Street Public School, Randwick Girls’ High and Randwick Boys’ High – there is often increased foot traffic on Avoca Street so it’s imperative motorists heed the soon-to-be installed pedestrian warnings signs and slow down in this area.

“We encourage motorists to be extra vigilant in all zones where there’s pedestrian movement, particularly around schools, shops and bus stops.

“The Perrottet Government will continue to look at ways to improve our local roads so that all users can keep moving forward safely and confidently.”

The two pedestrian warning signs are expected to be installed by the end of February.

FINDINGS RELEASED ON NEWCASTLE LIQUOR TRIAL

Proposals to relax liquor licence conditions for Newcastle hotels, bars and nightclubs will be considered on a case-by-case basis following the release of findings from a major trial examining options for boosting the city’s nightlife. 

Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority (ILGA) Chairperson Caroline Lamb said a wide range of data and community and stakeholder views have been taken on board from stage two of the trial, which involved 21 venues. 

“The evaluation report includes feedback from Newcastle venues, residents, and various stakeholders as well as patronage, noise complaints and alcohol-related offence data,” Ms Lamb said.

“After carefully considering the findings, ILGA has resolved that the trial conditions should continue for participating venues until 30 June to give them time to apply for changes to liquor licences.

“Because there were wide variations in levels of alcohol-related offences among the 21 venues in the trial, it’s vital that any proposals to relax conditions are considered individually, with a strong focus on compliance, safety and avoiding any unacceptable risks to the community.”

Key findings from the evaluation report include:

  • The majority of participating venues indicated that the relaxed licensing conditions positively impacted their patronage, business turnover and employment opportunities 
  • There was a 40 per cent increase in total spending on dining and entertainment across the whole Newcastle LGA compared to 2019, the most recent year not impacted by COVID restrictions.
  • While there was an overall rise  in the number of assaults and incidents of affray at the participating venues during the trial compared to previous years, the  majority of venues recorded no increases.  Compared to 2008 when the conditions were imposed, there has been significant declines in levels of offences across all venues.  

The first stage of the trial was undertaken from October 2020 to March 2021 and involved extended trading hours and removal of drink restrictions after 10pm for restaurants and small bars.

The stage two trial involved hotels, bars and nightclubs and included:

  • Removal of 1am and 1:30am lockout restrictions;
  • Extension of liquor trading hours until 3.30am on any night venues are normally authorised to sell liquor until at least 2.30am; and
  • Easing of restrictions on the types of drinks that may be served, allowing higher strength cocktails, neat spirits and shooters.

The evaluation report for stage two of the trial is available here: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/1124765/newcastle-liquor-licensing-trial-stage-2-evaluation-report.pdf  

ENDORSEMENT OF DRAFT BEHAVIOUR CODES A TURNING POINT

Australian Greens Deputy Leader, Senator Mehreen Faruqi, has said that today’s parliamentary endorsement of Behaviour Standards and Codes is a step forward in ensuring parliament is a safer, more respectful workplace that rejects discrimination. 

Senator Faruqi is a member of the Joint Select Committee on Parliamentary Standards, which developed the Behaviour Standards and Codes and reported in November 2022.

Senator Faruqi said:

“I’m optimistic that this is a turning point for making parliament a safer, more respectful workplace that rejects discrimination. 

“The codes will set an expectation of how we behave here. How this place changes for the better will depend on our commitment to changing culture. We must keep an eye on each other and call out unacceptable behaviour whenever and wherever it happens.

“The new codes explicitly prohibit discrimination on grounds that marginalise First Nations people, people of colour, disabled people and LGBTQI+ communities.  There is now recognition that this is unacceptable – and that perpetrators will face consequences for their actions.

“I urge the government to quickly set up the investigative and enforcement mechanisms to give the codes power to make the change so desperately needed and to hold us accountable.

“The mandatory training recommended by the parliamentary standards committee, including on anti-racism, disability discrimination and First Nations cultural awareness, is crucial for challenging entrenched privilege and power. This work should be prioritised as well.”