Category: NSW News

Digital Photo Card holders will be given access to an upgraded digital identity document from this month in a major step forward in developing the NSW Government’s Digital ID and Wallet.

Commencing as a pilot project, people will have a more secure way to prove their identity and age, with the upgrade to existing NSW Digital Photo Cards allowing users to share only their required information via a digital ‘handshake’.

The pilot will initially operate in three Service NSW Centres at Auburn, Blacktown and Parramatta from today.

Unlike the existing digital ‘copy’ of a customer’s Photo Card stored inside their Service NSW app, the upgraded card will enable people to digitally share information needed for a transaction via QR code without handing over their phone or identity document.

The upgraded card is the first government verifiable photo credential in Australia to be built to these international standards. The new security standards will make it harder for people to misuse the credentials or steal people’s information by keeping information more secure.

It will allow people to share their ID and qualifications for a range of tasks and transactions safely and conveniently, while ensuring personal information and privacy are better protected.

The pilot project is testing the technology platform that will enable digital credentials such as driver licences, trade qualifications and working with children checks, securely stored inside the new digital wallet on the Service NSW app.

These future upgrades will enable people to selectively disclose their information – for example, only providing confirmation that you are over 18 – preventing unnecessary sharing of personal details and avoiding the need to hand over your physical documents or phone.

In the pilot phase, customers completing eligible transactions will present their upgraded Digital Photo Card at the Service NSW counter, where staff will use a device to verify the credential in real-time. This process will test verification of the card and the digital sharing of information with customer’s consent.

Successful testing of the upgraded credential paves the way for ongoing rollout of the Digital ID and Wallet program which could see a range of licences upgraded to the new credential standard.

Further legislation is required to enable wider use of NSW Digital IDs across government and accredited commercial partners, with consultation planned in late 2025.

The pilot builds on the recent success of online Working with Children Check renewals and the First Aid Certificate trial with St John Ambulance. 

Customers who have an existing NSW Digital Photo Card can voluntarily participate in the pilot, and upgrading their card will only take a matter of minutes.

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:

“This pilot of Australia’s first government-issued digital photo credential is an exciting step towards a digital future for NSW where people have greater control over their digital identity and security.

“It paves the way for more credentials to be rebuilt to the new international security standard, allowing people to only share the information they choose and creating easier access to essential documents, including in an emergency.

“Upgrading this credential means that over time, more than one million NSW residents who have a Photo Card instead of a driver licence can also benefit from these security and privacy enhancements, including people who are vulnerable, elderly, disabled or new migrants.

“The digital photo credential is another way we are building better services for the people of NSW and helping people to better safeguard their identity.”

Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“The NSW Digital Photo Card will follow international ISO standards allowing it to eventually be used across other states, territories and countries while making it harder for someone else to use credentials and pretend to be you.

“The pilot uplifts security of this primary document and enhances the privacy protections to help keep your identity information and credentials more secure.

“Feedback from the pilot will provide the NSW Government with direction in planning for future statewide rollouts.”

Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos and Member for Barwon Roy Butler this week met with opal miners and land holder representatives’ groups from Lightning Ridge and White Cliffs.

The meetings are the next step in the NSW Government’s consideration of the Independent Review into Small-Scale Titles.

The visit to Lightning Ridge included visits to mining and puddling sites, inspections of residentials, as well as unrehabilitated areas and preserved fields.

It was a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to discuss their priorities including the future of opal mining, rehabilitation requirements and compensation amounts.

Reviewer Terry Sheahan AO handed down 81 recommendations as part of his report, including recommendations which:

• balance stakeholder rights and responsibilities
• improve rehabilitation and environmental outcomes
• update cost and compensation structures
• improve understanding and usability of the legislative framework
• modernise the administration of mineral claims.

A working group was established, comprising opal mining industry, landholders, First Nations representatives and other key stakeholders, to consider the recommendations and provide advice to the NSW Government.

In December 2024 they requested additional time to continue their deliberations, which was granted by the Minister.

This week’s meetings are an important step in the formulation of a government response to the Independent Review.

A copy of the Independent Review is available on the NSW Resources website.

Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos:

“Visiting Lightning Ridge and hearing directly from miners and landholders first-hand is an important next step as we consider our response to the Independent Review.

“We are committed to ensuring that any changes to the framework meet the needs of landholders, small-scale miners and the broader community.

“We are committed to hear concerns from the community as we respond to the report.

“I want to thank Roy Butler for joining me in these meetings and for his continued advocacy on issues in Lightning Ridge and White Cliffs.”

Member for Barwon Roy Butler:

“I want to thank Minister Houssos for granting the extension to stakeholders providing their response to the Independent Review and coming out to meet with miners and landholders to deal with a very complex issue.

“The aim of the Review and the meetings this week is to formulate a better framework than what we have now.

“I want this resolved quickly, but not at the expense of doing it properly.”

The Minns Labor Government has announced a $250,000 funding boost for NSW school students that aims to increase the number of Australian Para-athletes in the lead up to Brisbane 2032 and challenge stereotypes about people living with disability.

Paralympics Australia’s Imagine Education Program involves year 3-6 students at schools around the state participating in interactive sessions – delivered by Paralympians – that aim to increase awareness and understanding of disability inclusion.

As part of the Program, teachers can access curriculum resources to educate students about the Paralympic movement, the Paralympic Games, and Para-sports.

The Program will also promote Paralympics Australia’s ‘The Start Line’ online platform – a dedicated home for information, guidance and opportunities for Para-athletes to begin or continue their Para-sport journeys.

For further information on Paralympics Australia’s Imagine Education Program and to register your interest visit the Paralympics Australia website. 

NSW Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:

“The NSW Government is committed to every citizen, regardless of ability or age, having equal access to participate in sport in NSW.

“Our investment in Paralympics Australia’s Imagine Education Program reflects our determination to break down stereotypes about disability and support students with disability to participate.

“By promoting inclusion and starting conversations about diversity in primary schools, we can empower both students with disability and their peers to make their school communities more inclusive.

“We all witnessed the incredible achievements of NSW para-athletes like Timothy Hodge at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games and I look forward to seeing the graduates of this program competing at Brisbane 2032.”

Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said:

“Paralympics Australia’s Imagine Education Program has the power to spark an appreciation of inclusion from an early age.

“When students hear directly from our Paralympians, they don’t just learn about sport — they learn about strength, resilience and that everyone can be amazing.

“By backing this program, we’re helping to change perceptions, ignite the dreams for future Paralympians, and build a more inclusive NSW.”

Paralympics Australia CEO Cameron Murray said:

“We are grateful to Minister Kamper and the NSW Government for their generous support of the Paralympics Australia Imagine Education Program.

“This funding will be instrumental in helping our incredible Paralympians get to schools around NSW, where they will share their stories, challenge students’ attitudes towards disability and help create behavioural change.

“This is a program about empowerment through inclusion and diversity. Students will take the lessons they gain back to their families, into their social groups and, eventually, into their adult lives. It will create genuine improvement across society.

“We are excited about the growth of our Imagine Education Program and thrilled that the NSW Government shares our vision, as we look to continue expanding the program across Australia.”

Emergency response in Goulburn and surrounds has been bolstered with a new, purpose-built NSW State Emergency Service (SES) facility and Emergency Operations Centre, enabling emergency services to better protect lives and communities in the region. 

The new facilities are fit-for-purpose and follow an investment of more than $4 million from the Federal Labor Government, Minns Labor Government and Goulburn Mulwaree Council.

The new SES unit headquarters accommodates rescue vehicles and specialist equipment and has training space for volunteers.

Additional parking, increased storage, a communications room, change room facilities, rescue equipment and a sand bunker for sandbagging operations are also part of the new facility. 

These modern amenities replace the Goulburn NSW SES unit’s former home inside a tin shed.

Also included on the site is a shared, state-of-the-art Emergency Operations Centre. This allows all emergency services to coordinate, communicate and respond to disasters under the one roof.

The Emergency Operations Centre was previously inside the local council chambers and was not fit-for-purpose. 

The NSW SES Goulburn unit building is jointly funded by the NSW Government, Commonwealth Government and Goulburn Mulwaree Council.

The NSW Government contributed $2,150,000 to the build, while the Commonwealth Government committed $1,495,000 to the project, and Goulburn Mulwaree Council allocated $725,500.

The facility is one of 18 SES units to be upgraded across the state, funded by a $58.7 million package from the NSW Government. 

Premier of New South Wales, Chris Minns, said:

“The NSW SES plays a vital role in times of crisis. They need the right facilities to do the job.

“This investment boosts the Goulburn unit of the NSW SES to respond to flooding and other emergencies.

“We are backing the NSW SES so our volunteers can better serve people across Goulburn and surrounds.”

Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib, said:

“This new facility has been purpose built and designed with operational experience gained during past natural disasters to support our emergency service response.

“By delivering this new facility for our local SES volunteers they can continue to provide the highest level of service to the local community during times of need, as well as provide planning and coordination of emergency events during floods and storms.”

Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain, said:

“Having operational staff and volunteers co-located during an emergency was essential in other parts of the electorate during the Black Summer bushfires.

“I know first-hand how much this new facility will streamline processes when the community needs it most – and I’m proud to have helped deliver it.”

NSW SES Commissioner, Mike Wassing AFSM, said:

“This new unit headquarters will ensure our SES members have the facilities they require and will enable them to better support local communities when they need our assistance.  

“In the past year alone, the Goulburn Unit has responded to about 150 calls for assistance, including flood rescues, land searches, storm response and general land rescue incidents.”  

Goulburn-Mulwaree Council Mayor, Nina Dillon, said:

“As a Council, we are proud to see the official opening of this vital new facility, which is a direct result of our ongoing commitment to the safety and future of our community.

“The new NSW State Emergency Service Unit and Emergency Operations Centre will serve as a hub of preparedness and support for our emergency services. This milestone is a testament to the collaborative efforts between local, state, and federal levels of government, and it marks a major step in our shared vision of a more resilient and safer region for all.”

The Minns Labor Government has taken the next major step in delivering the nation’s largest social housing renewal, with contracts now signed to commence the transformation of Waterloo South.

Following a competitive tender process, the NSW Government has finalised contracts with Stockland, Link Wentworth, City West Housing, and Birribee Housing. Together the consortium will manage the planning, design, delivery and operations of the renewal.

This project will deliver more than 3,000 new homes in the inner city, within walking distance of local amenities and public transport including the Waterloo Metro. Half of these will be dedicated to social and affordable housing, providing over 1,000 new social homes and 600 affordable homes in the heart of Sydney.

Located on Gadigal land, the proposed plans place strong emphasis on cultural inclusion, improved housing outcomes and greater support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Birribee Housing will lead housing allocations to ensure 20 per cent of social homes and 15 per cent of affordable homes are dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents.

Committed to delivering thriving communities, Waterloo South will be designed with exceptional amenity and dedicated green space, including a two-hectare urban park – the largest delivered in the city in recent times.

To support the area’s growth, the revitalisation will deliver new community and retail spaces along George Street, improving access to everyday essentials and local services for residents.

The new precinct is designed to support residents beyond housing, with dedicated initiatives to strengthen community connections, enhance wellbeing, and open pathways to skills development and employment.

With contracts now finalised, the project will progress to the next phase, including site investigations, planning approvals and ongoing community engagement, alongside the staged tenant relocations already underway.

A core priority throughout the renewal is keeping the community together. With new homes available at the Waterloo Metro Quarter, Elizabeth Street Redfern and more than 150 properties offered by City West Housing in nearby developments, current residents will be able to move into new or near-new homes within the local area.

Homes NSW recognises that moving can be stressful and has committed to providing dedicated support to residents to ensure a smooth transition to their new homes. All residents will have the right to return once the renewal is complete.

This renewal is part of the NSW Government’s $6.6 billion Building Homes for NSW program, which will deliver:

• 8,400 new public housing dwellings
• 21,000 new affordable and private homes
• Upgrades to 30,000 existing social housing properties

For more information visit: www.nsw.gov.au/homes-nsw/waterloo

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said:

“Signing these contracts marks a historic moment for Waterloo and for social housing in Australia. We are not just replacing old homes, we’re creating a thriving, inclusive, and well-connected community that honours the rich history of the area.

“With more than 1,600 social and affordable homes, a new two-hectare park, and a commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander housing and cultural inclusion, we are setting a new benchmark for large-scale social housing renewal.

“This is about more than just housing, it’s about building a future where everyone has the stability and opportunity they deserve.

“Every tenant will be supported through this process, and every resident has the right to return to a brand-new home once the project is complete.”

Member for Heffron Ron Hoenig said:

“I’ve fought for years for the residents of Waterloo to have the quality housing they deserve.

“Ensuring that all residents are treated with respect and that their wellbeing is front of mind is my priority as this project progresses.

“This renewal will completely transform the estate, giving residents safe, modern homes while preserving the strong community connections that have been built over decades.

“Importantly, we are ensuring residents remain living in the local area during the transition and that they return when the project is complete.

“That right to return is non-negotiable and I’m proud to see it guaranteed under this Government.”

Stockland Managing Director and CEO Tarun Gupta said:

“Stockland considers it a privilege to be selected by the NSW Government to develop the Waterloo Renewal Project, alongside our consortium partners, Link Wentworth, City West Housing and Birribee Housing.

“Building on Stockland’s 73-year legacy as a leading creator and curator of connected communities, we look forward to working with Homes NSW, our partners, and the community to deliver vibrant and inclusive spaces with high quality homes for all residents.

“We understand the deep responsibility that comes with our selection, and we are committed to delivering the project in a way that respects the community and the important history of Waterloo.”

The Blayney Multipurpose Service (MPS) has reached a significant milestone, with the concrete poured for the first phase of the project.

The Blayney MPS Redevelopment project is the final site to be delivered under the NSW Government’s $297 million Multipurpose Service Program Stage 5 to improve and enhance health facilities across smaller rural and remote communities.

It will deliver a new purpose-built and modern health facility to improve health and aged care services for the community of Blayney. The new facility will include a new residential aged care wing with single rooms and bathrooms, more inpatient unit beds, increased chair-based services, more HealthOne rooms, and room for future expansion.

The new MPS is being built on the existing Osman Street site in stages to ensure all clinical services continue to operate during construction. The project’s first phase, which includes construction of a new Residential Aged Care wing and Inpatient Unit, is progressing well with the final concrete pour now complete.

The next steps will include construction of the Residential Aged Care wing and Inpatient Unit, followed by the internal fit-out, services installation and other exterior works. The aged care residents will relocate into the new Residential Aged Care wing once this phase of redevelopment is completed.

The second phase of works will then start, including demolition of the existing buildings and construction of the new HealthOne, entry, reception, waiting room, staff area and ambulatory care.  

The current MPS remains fully operational as construction progresses and every effort is being made to minimise disruption to residents, staff, patients and visitors. 

The community will continue to be updated about the redevelopment’s progress with information available on the project website.

For more information, visit the Multipurpose Service Program website. 

Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park:  

“I’m thrilled the new Blayney MPS is another step closer with the concrete pours for the first phase complete, and I look forward to seeing the redevelopment continue to take shape. 

“The Blayney MPS Redevelopment is the final project to be redeveloped under the NSW Government’s $297 million Multipurpose Program Stage 5, with another 17 sites in NSW either upgraded or redeveloped, which is an outstanding achievement.”

Government Spokesperson for Bathurst, Stephen Lawrence, MLC:

“Blayney MPS isn’t just a health facility – it’s also a home to those living in the residential aged care wing. The new Blayney MPS will ensure the residents have a modern and comfortable home with the high-quality care they deserve.

“The professional and caring staff at Blayney are also looking forward to having the latest fit-for-purpose facilities, lots of light, and dedicated staff areas so they can provide the best possible care to our community in an improved working environment.” 

The NSW Government continues to transform how businesses interact with government services with new enhancements to the Service NSW Business Bureau’s digital tools providing efficient, accessible, and personalised support. 

Since the Service NSW Business Bureau launched in October 2023, more than 195,000 businesses have used its digital tools, the Service NSW Business Profile, and Service NSW Business Bureau app, to access government support, manage transactions, and save and track industry licences with a few taps. 

Enhancements to the Service NSW Business Bureau App include:

• Sharing access: Business owners can securely invite team members to access their Business Profile.
• Simplifying voucher management: Business owners can update and manage bank details securely. Voucher redemption and financial management can also be delegated to trusted team members.
• Tracking applications in real time: Businesses can view their Voucher and Business Grant application status in real time, providing transparency and certainty. 

The Service NSW Business Profile is a single trusted gateway which helps businesses manage licences, applications and government services in one place. 

It has been enhanced to better support business owners across the State, giving businesses more control and convenience by allowing them to: 

• Receive important updates: Opt-in for SMS and email notifications tailored to their needs, helping them stay compliant with regulation changes and stay up to date with business support opportunities.
• Autofill applications: Save time by pre-filling details for new licence and financial support applications.
• Track progress in real time: See where their applications are up to and get notified of the outcome.
• Find new opportunities: Search for government tenders to help their business grow.
• Get personalised support: Use live chat to connect with a Business Concierge for help where and when they need it. 

The Business Bureau provides digital products to support business owners at every stage of their journey, including:

• License Manager: Search, save, organise, track and renew business, employee and subcontractor licences in one place. 
• Advisor and event bookings: Businesses can schedule an appointment with a free, independent business advisor and register to get advice on marketing, cashflow, and business planning.
• Self-check compliance for motor repair businesses:  An easy-to-use self-assessment tool designed for repair shops, garages and service centres, helping businesses check if they meet industry regulations.
• Business Vehicle Registration: Small businesses can find and access vehicle registration renewal easily through their Business Profile and Business Bureau app. Already, more than 22,800 businesses have accessed this feature. 

There are more than 870,000 small businesses in NSW, making up 97 per cent of all NSW businesses.

NSW small businesses employ 1.8 million people in the private sector, which is around 43 per cent of the State’s private sector workforce. 

For more information on the Service NSW Business Bureau’s digital tools, call 13 77 88 or visit the Service NSW website.

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said: 

“The Business Bureau’s digital tools are making it easier than ever for small business owners across New South Wales to access the advice, information, and support they need. 

“We have seen more than 195,000 businesses access the Service NSW Business Bureau app and Service NSW Business Profile since the Business Bureau launched in October 2023, showing these digital tools are helping to make being in business easier. 

“We remain committed to making digital support and services for businesses across NSW more accessible and flexible than ever.” 

The NSW Government has been notified of a proposal by Healthscope seeking to have Northern Beaches Hospital returned to the NSW public system.

The Minns Labor Government has made it clear it does not support public private partnerships being imposed on the state’s acute hospitals.

Patients can be assured that there will be no impact on health services at Northern Beaches Hospital while any potential discussions take place.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey:

“I note the owners of Healthscope are engaged in a market process potentially seeking to exit the business.

“After the way Healthscope has managed this partnership, it should not expect to walk away from the Northern Beaches Hospital with a profit.

“The NSW Government will be watching to ensure that no-one is trying to make a windfall gain at the expense of the people of NSW.

“The Government will engage with Healthscope management after questions of its ownership and whether it remains a going concern are resolved.”

Minister for Health Ryan Park:  

“We have always made clear that we do not support public private partnerships being imposed on our state’s acute hospitals.

“We will carefully consider any proposal regarding Northern Beaches Hospital.

“We can assure the community that Northern Beaches Hospital will continue to operate without interruption during any discussions.”

Enhanced mental health care is just around the corner for Tamworth thanks to a major construction milestone, with the three-storey building structure of the new Tamworth Hospital Mental Health Unit now complete.

The new facility will provide welcoming, comfortable and supportive care and bring a much-needed expansion of mental health services to Tamworth and surrounding communities.

The elevated, modern unit includes a new bridge which will provide a direct connection between the inpatient floor of the new facility and the Tamworth Hospital building.

The 23-metre-long bridge was built off-site, assembled at the hospital campus and craned into position in three sections. Once operational, it will make it safer and easier for people to receive enhanced, integrated care.

The new unit, which will replace the nearby Banksia Mental Health Unit, will include:  

• four adolescent inpatient beds 
• 20 general adult beds, as well as a five-bed adult high acuity zone 
• eight bed older persons’ area. 

With structural works complete, the project team will continue the internal fit-out, services installation and exterior works.

Mental health services at Tamworth Hospital remain available during the construction process at the existing Banksia Mental Health Unit, which will continue to operate until the new facility opens later this year.

The project is being delivered by Hunter New England Local Health District and Health Infrastructure as part of the NSW Government’s $700 million Statewide Mental Health Infrastructure Program. Hansen Yuncken is the builder.  

The construction has provided a major boost to the local economy with the employment of local contractors and sub-contractors. To date, more than 400 workers have been inducted on site, with a significant percentage of the workforce coming from the local region.

Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said:

“It’s fantastic to see the new mental health facility reach this milestone, taking us one step closer to delivering expanded and enhanced mental health services for the Tamworth community.

“With direct access to the hospital, the new unit will support better outcomes for people receiving mental health care, their families and carers.

“We know this new facility means a lot to the community. It will offer a modern, safe and supportive environment to those who need it most, which is why I am thrilled to see this project head towards its final phase before opening later this year.”

Duty Member of the Legislative Council for Tamworth Anthony D’Adam said:

“It’s great to see this important and highly anticipated facility take shape.

“This new mental health unit will make a real difference for the Tamworth community, providing more support close to home in a space designed with care and dignity in mind.

“I look forward to seeing the doors open later this year and the positive impact it will have for the region for years to come.”

Hunter New England Local Health District Mental Health Services General Manager Jonathan Holt said:

“The new facility has been designed in collaboration with staff and the local community to create a welcoming and supportive environment for patients, visitors and staff.

“A new forecourt full of native gardens will be created and used as a place to gather, along with a family room and courtyard, providing space for people and their families to come together and help in the healing process.”

Landholders and communities in western NSW are being urged to prepare for extensive flooding and isolation throughout April and May as significant flows from Queensland continue to move down the river systems into NSW.

Major flooding is occurring on the Paroo River at Wanaaring, and moderate flooding on the Warrego River at Barringhun.

Flows from these river systems are expected to travel downstream with stock owners strongly encouraged to take the opportunity before flood waters peak to move stock to higher ground and ensure adequate fodder is on hand, if possible.

The Minns Government through the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and Local Land Services (LLS) have activated the Agricultural and Animal Services Functional Area (AASFA), which will support NSW SES in assisting landholders with:

• Animal assessment and veterinary assistance
• Euthanasia of animals and welfare grounds
• Emergency fodder (for up to three days where there is an immediate animal welfare concern)
• Emergency stock water (where there is an immediate animal welfare concern)
• Livestock feeding and management advice
• Aerial support for livestock

LLS will continue to contact landholders in at-risk communities along the Paroo to encourage preparedness..

AASFA will continue to work closely with SES providing support for this flood event, and long-term impacts to landholders.

For updated warnings on the NSW flood event, go to www.ses.nsw.gov.au or download the Hazards Near Me App.

For urgent requests for stock assistance, including animal assessment, veterinary support or emergency fodder, call the AASFA emergency hotline at: 1800 814 647

Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty said:

“With major flooding occurring and likely to last several weeks, I urge landholders and people in at-risk communities to act now. Move stock to higher ground, secure property, and have a plan in place.

“Staying informed during events like these is vital, monitor flood warnings, follow advice from authorities and reach out to emergency services if you need help.

“The NSW Government is committed to helping communities and our agricultural producers through this event, if you are in need of any stock assistance, veterinary support or emergency fodder, please call the AASFA emergency hotline on 1800 814 647.”