Removal of iconic Sugar Pine Walk to begin following bushfire impact

Following the devastation of the 2019-20 bushfire season, work will soon begin to remove the iconic Sugar Pine Walk in Bago State Forest.

Sadly, the forest was heavily burnt in the bushfires and the Sugar Pine Walk trees cannot be saved, said Forestry Corporation of NSW Snowy Region Manager, Dean Anderson.

“The site has sentimental value for many of us and we share this loss with the community,” Mr Anderson said.

“Many of our staff were even married on the site, including the person planning the Sugar Pine Walk timber harvest, and anyone who has visited the site will have appreciated how special it was.

“Pine trees are particularly susceptible to fire and the intensity of the bushfires has destroyed this iconic walk in Bago State Forest.

“We have no option but to remove the trees — the site is incredibly dangerous due to the burnt standing timber. The site is strictly closed to the public and forest visitors must avoid the area for their own safety.”

Forestry Corporation will also be working with mills and local contractors to salvage the bushfire-affected wood, with work starting from early June this year.

The organisation is commissioning a photographer to capture the Sugar Pine Walk as it stands and will share these images with the community. We will also be holding a photo competition to capture the community’s memories of the Sugar Pine Walk before it was impacted by fire.

Sugar Pine (Pinus lamertina) is native to the west coast of America and is the largest and tallest of all pine species. The site was planted 1928 as a range of different exotic species were being trialled by the forestry industry.

Forestry Corporation staff are also exploring how to mark the passing of the forest and how best to commemorate the loss.

“Planning is underway for a replacement Sugar Pine Walk, with seed and seedlings in the current site being collected for propagation and replanting for future generations,” Mr Anderson said.

“We are also looking at other ways we can preserve the memory of Sugar Pine Walk and are share with the community to celebrate 100 years of plantation forestry in the local region.”

To find out more about the history of Sugar Pine Walk and current operations, please visit www.forestrycorporation.com.au

Multicultural Community Medal Finalist

A long-standing Regional Development Riverina staff member has been named a finalist for the NSW Premier’s Multicultural Community Medal.

The Premier’s Multicultural Community Medals and the Multicultural Honour Roll highlight the outstanding contribution of migrants, and those who work in the multicultural field. As Skilled Migration Officer, Faye Anderson has made a valuable contribution to this field for more than 15 years.

In her role, Faye is called upon to respond to the needs of Riverina employers and migrants alike in assessing and processing visa applications for certification and sponsorship. But as RDA Riverina CEO Rachel Whiting points out, Faye’s contributions go much further.

“Faye is patient and kind. She goes above and beyond in responding to the needs of new skilled migrants and their families. She meets and greets new arrivals at the airport or train station, is invited to cultural celebrations and has been known to drive new arrivals to job interviews on her day off.

“Faye is the perfect example of a long-standing member of the Riverina community welcoming people to our region. She sets a great example for unity in the community and shows us what we can achieve if people are willing to act as a friend and neighbour to all.”

Rachel said that Faye invests a great deal of time in building relationships with employers and migrants to help them make connections that benefit both parties and significantly contributes to the economic, social and cultural wellbeing of our regional communities.

“Faye has contributed to the goodwill in our communities towards new migrants and has eased the transition for many families. This has been a slow and quiet change but, through her good works, Faye sets the standard for others in the community.

“Faye is a much-loved member of the community and highly respected for her extensive knowledge and experience and we are very proud of her and the work she has done in helping new migrants as part of and in addition to her role as Skilled Migration Officer for RDA Riverina.

“We were sad that the awards night couldn’t go ahead this year as planned due to Covid-19 but super excited for the announcement on Tuesday 26 may. Faye's a true winner in our eyes.”

Commonwealth Government Seeking Consultation on Mobile Black Spot Program

The Government is seeking feedback on the design of Round 5A of the Mobile Black Spot Program.

Consultation Period:  April 21, 2020 09:00 AEST to June 19, 2020 17:00 AEST

The Government is seeking input on the design of Round 5A of the Mobile Black Spot Program. The program funds telecommunications infrastructure to deliver new and improved coverage in regional and remote Australia. The Australian Government has committed $380 million over six rounds to the program.

The program objectives are to provide mobile telecommunications users in regional and remote Australia with:

• access to increased handheld and external antenna mobile coverage, and

• greater choice of mobile network.

The first five rounds of the program have been highly successful, funding 1,229 new mobile base stations. These base stations are delivering hundreds of thousands of square kilometres of new coverage to regional and remote Australia.

The government are seeking stakeholder views on the design of the next round of the program, to identify opportunities and lessons learnt, so the program continues to deliver high-value outcomes to regional and remote Australia.

Feedback will inform the design of the Round 5A program guidelines.

Telecommunications industry, all levels of government and other interested stakeholders are encouraged to make a submission to help inform the Government's consideration of possible program implementation methods.

RDA Riverina are happy to assist LGAs and community members with a regional approach, or you are welcome to make your own submission.

SEGRA publishes COVID-19 Special Communique: Speaking up for Regional Australia

On behalf of the National Steering Committee, SEGRA has published a special COVID-19 edition of SEGRA : Speaking up for Regional Australia. This material has been generated through a bi-weekly conversation with a range of organisations including Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Mayors, Regional Development Australia CEO's and Chairs, Investment attraction agencies, Queensland's Chief Entrepreneur and many others. It contains key issues identified in the conversations and action agendas for people in regional, rural and remote Australia to consider.

Red Cross Emergency Relief Payments for migrants on temporary visas

The Red Cross National portal to assist temporary migrants (anyone in Australia who is not a citizen or permanent resident) to access emergency relief is now operational as of 5/5/2020.

Emergency relief payments are for people who:

• are not Australian citizens or permanent residents, and

• have no access to services like Centrelink or other support payments, and

• have no income, savings or means of supporting themselves, and

• have urgent essential needs like food, medicine and shelter

Emergency relief payments can provide vital short-term relief when people have to make tough choices and decide between essentials. They help with basic needs, like food, medicine, and immediate housing, to help people stay safe.

People need to provide information about their situation, dependents, and visa details as well as their most recent bank statement. Once they make their application Red Cross will contact them to discuss their situation.  

The portal link is: www.redcross.org.au/emergencyrelief

COVID-19 Information in your language

The Australian Department of Home Affairs have launched a new website providing a collection of information on COVID-19 for Australia’s diverse communities.

This new website provides information and advice in 63 languages.

The website includes a range of information on Health, Education, Financial Support, Community & Settlement Services and Visas & the border.

The website is accessible from the official Australian Government COVID-19 response website at https://www.australia.gov.au by clicking on the “Check the latest information in your language” web link.

First Regional NSW COVID-19 Respiratory Clinic opens in Wagga Wagga

The first rural GP-led COVID-19 respiratory clinic in New South Wales officially opened 15th April at Wagga Wagga’s Glenrock Country Practice.

Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development and Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack said the new respiratory clinic, assembled at Dr Ayman Shenouda’s practice, was part of the Australian Government’s $2.4 billion health package to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak.

“Wagga Wagga is a health hub for the Riverina and the Murrumbidgee Valley with more than 250,000 people relying on the regional city’s health services and medical professionals,” Mr McCormack said.

“Dr Shenouda has been at the forefront of making sure regional Australians live healthy lives and get through this challenging time. I commend the work he has done to help get this clinic up and running. I know the local community will be extremely grateful.

“The Federal Government has committed to establishing up to 100 GP-led respiratory clinics across Australia to assess patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms.

“The local clinics will help to reduce pressure on hospital emergency departments and other general practices.

“Rural and regional residents deserve health care services which are just as good as those provided in our major cities and the national rollout of these new clinics is part of addressing that.

“These respiratory clinics will be best placed to support people with a fever, cough, sore throat and other respiratory symptoms and will help to avoid the risk of infection in our local communities.”

Federal Minister for Regional Health Mark Coulton said the Federal Government was focused on ensuring rural and regional communities are prepared to respond to this pandemic.

“We are putting in place a range of measures including additional practice incentives and the expansion of telehealth to enable the rural medical workforce to continue to care for rural people,” Mr Coulton said.

“Other rural respiratory clinics are also operating in Emerald in Queensland and Mildura in Victoria with more to open over the coming weeks and months.

“The Government is working with local GPs and Aspen Medical, which has significant health emergency management experience in Australia and overseas, to rollout the clinics.”

Vice President of the Royal Australian College of General Practice and Wagga Wagga GP Dr Ayman Shenouda said it was an honour to open the first rural GP-led COVID-19 respiratory clinic in New South Wales.

"GPs are doing an incredible job on the frontline of COVID-19 combating this virus and the respiratory clinic in Wagga Wagga will make a real difference,” Dr Shenouda said.

"The clinic will help to screen patients with flu-like symptoms and is located in a separate position to the practice to keep staff and patients safe. It will allow all patients to access their own GP in a safe environment.

"Screening patients for COVID-19 will help to reduce community transmission of coronavirus."

The Government is investing $206.7 million to establish up to 100 respiratory clinics across Australia, including in rural and regional areas. Additionally, more than 160 fever clinics, jointly funded by the Commonwealth and State and Territory Governments are also in operation across Australia.

BACKGROUND:

• People with mild to moderate respiratory symptoms will need to make an appointment either online via booking links available at health.gov.au or over the phone if the clinic has made a local phone booking arrangement available. (People with severe symptoms should call 000 and/or attend the nearest hospital emergency department.)

• It is important people attend the clinic only at the time of their booking so social distancing can be maintained and they may be asked to wait in their car until the clinic is ready to receive them.

• People will be assessed by a GP or a nurse under the supervision of a GP and have a specimen taken for pathology testing if that is indicated.

• Regardless of whether a test is undertaken, the person will receive clinical advice on how to manage their symptoms and an initial follow-up phone call or text message with test results and to check on how they are going.

• After people have visited the clinic, they will remain eligible to continue to consult their regular GP using the MBS telehealth items.

Funding to help bushfire-hit farmers rebuild boundary fencing bordering public lands

Bushfire-affected landholders will now have access to their share of up to $209 million to help cover the cost of rebuilding boundary fences, after Deputy Premier John Barilaro launched the NSW Government’s ‘Supporting our Neighbours’ project.

Mr Barilaro said the project, funded through the government’s $2.3 billion COVID-19 stimulus package, would not only help farmers recover, but would provide a much-needed shot in the arm for regional economies at a critical time.

“Under this package, we will provide up to $5000 per kilometre for the purchase of materials to rebuild existing fences adjoining public lands damaged by the summer fires, which will go a long way to helping farmers cover the cost,” Mr Barilaro said. 

“This is a great opportunity for all landholders to engage the services of their local contractors at a time when supporting local businesses has never been more vital.

“This is about helping bushfire-affected communities get back on their feet and so we are doing everything we can to make sure that happens.”

Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall said the funding would be delivered through a one-off grant, which would also be issued retrospectively to help cover the costs already incurred by landholders. 

“We know this has been a major issue for fire-affected farmers and we’ve listened to those concerns,” Mr Marshall said. 

“We will have dedicated boundary fence coordinators working with farmers to identify their needs and negotiate with the public land managers to ensure money gets into farmers’ pockets as soon as possible.

“We’re encouraging landholders to use this opportunity to upgrade their fencing bordering public lands and use fire resilient materials wherever possible. Landholders who have already started rebuilding can still receive a backdated payment.”

$100m support for health workers to fight COVID-19

NSW frontline healthcare workers will be provided with free accommodation to protect their loved ones as part of $100 million in extra measures to support frontline staff battling COVID-19. 

 The NSW Government is allocating almost $60 million to provide doctors, nurses, paramedics and other hospital and ambulance staff with the option of staying in out-of-home accommodation during the pandemic. 

The package will also support medical research and vaccine trials to beat COVID-19, as well as commercialise research products and boost domestic supply chains.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said this funding would not only provide support for healthcare workers now but would also give them the resources to tackle COVID-19 head-on in the coming months. 

“Nobody should go to work and worry that it will put their families at risk especially when they are working so hard to protect us. This funding is the least we can do to keep healthcare workers and their families safe,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“Our health professionals are among the best in the world and we must do everything we can to help them not just now but also in the weeks and months ahead as we battle this virus.”

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said providing free accommodation to hospital staff was a crucial plank in the health support package.

“The last thing the brave men and women in our health system should have to worry about is that their jobs will result in their loved ones being exposed to this virus,” Mr Perrottet said.

“As was the case during the bushfires our health system will have all the resources it needs so our frontline health workers can save lives and look after themselves.”

Local health districts will work with staff to make sure accommodation is close to work or their families, depending on individual needs.  

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said no stone would be left unturned when it came to supporting the health system. Mr Hazzard said the vital health package will also include $25 million in funding for medical research and vaccine trials to help develop a cure to beat COVID-19 as well as $11 million to quickly get work from NSW’s world class universities and partner research institutions to market.

“Frontline health staff who have the community’s back now know that the community and the government have their back. This funding gives them options on accommodation when they’re doing battle with COVID-19,” Mr Hazzard said.

“Options to protect their family and to protect themselves are critical, and now they can choose what’s best in their own circumstances without worrying about a drain on their budget.” 

The package also includes $10 million to work with NSW engineering, electrical and manufacturing businesses to urgently undertake pilot projects to produce ventilators and other critical medical equipment locally.

Key elements of the support package include:

• $58 million for health worker accommodation

• $25 million for medical research and vaccine trials

• $11 million for commercialisation of research products

• $10 million Funding to partner with industry to boost domestic supply chains.

The NSW Government has already committed $700 million extra funding for NSW Health as part of a $2.3 billion health boost and economic stimulus package announced on 17 March 2020.

This funding boost is helping double ICU capacity, preparing for additional COVID-19 testing, purchasing additional ventilators and medical equipment and establishing acute respiratory clinics.

Covid-19: Rex Provides Update on Route Plans

Regional Express (Rex) has provided an update for the 54 regional and remote communities that are serviced by Rex on its immediate plans for the suspension/reduction of services so that they could be prepared for the drastic changes. Rex has communicated, several times in the past two weeks, that the significant drop in passenger numbers means that air services are no longer viable.

Rex’s original plan was to shut down its entire network to conserve cash as otherwise Rex will run out of cash in a matter of weeks.

Two State governments, Queensland and Western Australia, have responded to Rex’s appeal on 19 March for a partnership approach to keep minimum essential services going. Discussions are very advanced and the new schedules for these two states will be revealed once matters are finalised. NSW has not responded.

Fortunately for regional Australia, the Federal Government has stepped in to provide funding to support one return service a week. Rex has submitted an application for this funding and the proposed flight schedules for New South Wales, South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania are available through the link below.

If Rex’s application is not successful then Rex will have to suspend services in all states without State Government assistance. The outcome for Federal funding is expected at the end of next week and in the meantime Rex will operate schedules that at least match what they have proposed for the State and Federal funding.

Rex’ Deputy Chairman, the Hon John Sharp AM said, “Rex is fully mindful of the horrifying consequences to regional and rural communities like Broken Hill that may face either not having any air services or having a dramatically reduced air service.”

“Lives could be lost because medical samples could not be tested in a timely manner or blood could not be transported. Rex had been fulfilling this critical and essential community service role in the past two decades without assistance from anyone, and often even losing money on communities with very small passenger numbers, because our heart is in the country and we were profitable enough to do so.”

“Rex apologises that it can no longer continue shouldering this burden as we are fighting for our own life. Rex’s first priority is to survive this crisis so that regional and rural communities can count on our air connections to rebuild after the crisis, and long into the future.”

“Rex wishes to once again thank the Deputy Prime Minister, Michael McCormack, and the Morrison Government for their leadership and decisiveness in stepping in so promptly to rescue regional aviation, which is ultimately a State and Local Government responsibility.” “Without this immediate intervention, Australia would not have a single regional airline left standing.”

Covid-19: Changes for Temporary Visa Holders

The Australian Government is making a number of changes to temporary visa holder arrangements during the coronavirus crisis in order to protect the health and livelihoods of Australians, support critical industries, and assist with the rapid recovery post the virus.

There are 2.17 million people presently in Australia on a temporary visa.

All were welcomed to Australia on a temporary basis for different reasons including to fill skills shortages; to study as full fee-paying international students; to visit family and friends; or to work and holiday.

They are an important part of our economy and society. For example, there are over 8,000 skilled medical professionals on temporary visas supporting our health system right now.

While citizens, permanent residents and many New Zealanders have access to unconditional work rights and government payments (including the new JobKeeper and JobSeeker payments), temporary visa holders do not.

There has always been an expectation that temporary visa holders are able to support themselves while in Australia.  The changes announced today will help facilitate this for those who may be stood down or lose work hours as a result of the coronavirus. 

In line with changes being made for Australian citizens and permanent residents, most temporary visa holders with work rights will now be able to access their Australian superannuation to help support themselves during this crisis.  

Temporary visa holders who are unable to support themselves under these arrangements over the next six months are strongly encouraged to return home. For these individuals it's time to go home, and they should make arrangements as quickly as possible.

Changes are also geared toward enabling temporary visa holders to remain in key industries, such as health, aged and disability care, agriculture and food processing. 

Importantly, they can help boost front line health numbers, get food from farms to our shops and ensure critical services continue.

Temporary visa holders are extremely valuable to the Australian economy and way of life, but the reality is that many Australians will find themselves out of work due to the dual health and economic crisis we're currently facing, and these Australians and permanent residents must be the Government's number one focus.

Visa changes

The following new measures will apply to the major classes of temporary visa holders. The situation will be reviewed periodically and further changes made if required.

Visitor visa holders

There are 203,000 international visitors in Australia, typically on a visa lasting three months or less.

International tourists should return to their home country as quickly as possible, particularly those without family support.

Thousands are already doing this and others should follow their lead.

International students

There are 565,000 international students in Australia, mainly studying in the higher education or vocational education sector. They are an important contributor to our tertiary sector and economy, supporting 240,000 Australian jobs.

Students are encouraged to rely on family support, part-time work where available and their own savings to sustain themselves in Australia.  As part of their visa application, international students have had to demonstrate that they can support themselves completely in their first year.

Students who have been here longer than 12 months who find themselves in financial hardship will be able to access their Australian superannuation.

The Government will undertake further engagement with the international education sector who already provide some financial support for international students facing hardship. For example, we understand there are some education providers that are providing fee discounts to international students.

The Government will also be flexible in cases where Coronavirus has prevented international students meeting their visa conditions (such as not being able attend classes).

International students are able to work up to 40 hours per fortnight.

International students working in aged care and as nurses have had these hours extended to support these critical sectors.

International students working in the major supermarkets had also had these hours extended to help get stock on shelves during the high demand. From 1 May, their hours will return to the maximum 40 hours a fortnight as more Australians are being recruited into these roles.

New Zealanders on 444 visas

New Zealanders and Australians have reciprocal arrangements whereby we can each stay and work in each other's country. There are more than 672,000 New Zealanders in Australia on a subclass 444 visa.

New Zealanders who are on 444 visas and arrived before 26 February 2001 will have access to welfare payments and the JobKeeper payment.

444 visa holders who arrived after 2001 have access to the JobKeeper payment. Those who have lived in Australia for 10 years or more have access to JobSeeker payments for six months.

New Zealanders should consider returning to New Zealand if they are unable to support themselves through these provisions, work or family support.

Temporary Skilled visa holders

There are around 139,000 temporary skilled visa holders, on either a 2 year or 4 year visa.  They were provided the visa to fill a skills shortage – a shortage that may still be present when the crisis has passed.

Consequently, those visa holders who have been stood down, but not laid off, will maintain their visa validity and businesses will have the opportunity to extend their visa as per normal arrangements.  Businesses will also be able to reduce the hours of the visa holder without the person being in breach of their visa condition.

These visa holders will also be able to access up to $10,000 of their superannuation this financial year.

Those visa holders who have been laid off due to coronavirus should leave the country in line with existing visa conditions if they are unable to secure a new sponsor.  However, should a 4-year visa holder be re-employed after the coronavirus pandemic, their time already spent in Australia will count towards their permanent residency skilled work experience requirements.

Working holiday makers supporting critical sectors

There are about 118,000 people in Australia on a Working Holiday visa (or backpacker visa) – a visa which provides conditional work rights.

To support the critical sectors of heath, aged and disability care, agriculture and food processing, and childcare, some limited flexibility will be provided.

In particular, working holiday makers who are working in these critical sectors will be exempt from the six month work limitation with the one employer and eligible for a further visa to keep working in these critical sectors if their current visa is due to expire in the next six months.

In general, working holiday makers that do not have the confidence to sustain themselves over the next six months should make arrangements to leave the country.

There are another 185,000 other temporary visa holders in Australia, about half of them temporary graduate visa holders. They will also be able to access their Australian superannuation if needed for support.

Covid-19: Changes to visa arrangements for agricultural workers

The Australian Government is making temporary changes to visa arrangements to help farmers access the workforce they need to secure Australia’s food and produce supply during COVID-19.

The changes allow those within the Pacific Labour Scheme, Seasonal Worker Program and working holiday makers to continue to work in agriculture and food processing until the coronavirus crisis has passed.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Government was protecting the health of Australians by supporting businesses, providing job opportunities and securing our food supply.

“We can’t afford to see fruit rotting on trees and vines and vegetables left unpicked. It is vital our farmers maximise their hard work and economic returns,” Mr McCormack said.

“We are acting to enable seasonal workers to extend their stay and remain lawfully in Australia until they are able to return to their home countries.

“The agriculture sector relies on an ongoing workforce and we are committed to providing the means for that to continue while ensuring strict health and safety measures are adhered to, including visa holders following self-isolation requirements when they move between regions."

Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud said workforce requirements for agriculture change within and across states as different crops are ready for harvest.

“It is essential for our food security that workers can move to meet these seasonal labour needs,” Minister Littleproud said.

"At the same time it is critical we manage this labour force to support the on-going health of regional communities.

“We are working closely with State and Territory Governments and industry to ensure appropriate health controls are in place for the ongoing health and well-being of our regional communities.”

There are tough rules to ensure that COVID-19 is not transported to regional and rural communities that have thankfully not experienced the same level transmission.

Before moving to other parts of the country, working holiday makers will need to self-isolate for 14 days and register at the Australia.gov.au website. Those who do not comply will face having their visas cancelled.

The National Farmers Federation has developed best practice guidance for farmers regarding requirements for the living and working arrangements for farm workers (either domestic or migrant) during the covid-19 outbreak.

"We have asked the Chief Medical Officer to review these guidelines and it is critical that they are then considered by the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee,” Minister Littleproud said.

“Sadly, there's been a significant number of Australians who've lost their jobs due to the economic impacts of COVID-19.

“I know some farmers have seen strong interest from job ads and we are keeping market testing requirements in place to ensure recruitment of Australians first.

“We are well positioned with the decisions we’ve taken today to ensure that critical industries, such as agriculture, are well supported during this time and that Australia remains positioned to produce the food we need.”

Acting Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs Alan Tudge said agriculture is an essential sector and it relies on temporary visa holders, many who arrive and depart Australia on a seasonal basis.

“These visa holders fill a critical workforce gap in this sector,” Minister Tudge said.

“That is why the Government is putting temporary measures in place to allow important work in the agriculture sector to continue.

“We are giving certainty to our agriculture workforce so they can get food from farms to our shops and ensure critical services continue.”

The conditions under the Seasonal Worker Programme and Pacific Labour Scheme visa arrangements will be carried over to the new visa arrangements, continuing the strong links between Pacific seasonal workers and their employers.

These changes complement and are in addition to additional measures for temporary visa holders announced by Minister Tudge.

Key Facts

• Seasonal Worker Programme and Pacific Labour Scheme workers can extend their stay for up to 12 months to work for approved employers (ensuring pastoral care and accommodation needs of workers are met to minimise health risks to visa holders and the community).

• Approved employers under the Seasonal Worker Programme and Pacific Labour Scheme will need to continue engaging with the Department of Education, Skills and Employment on labour market testing to ensure recruitment of Australians first.

• Working Holiday Makers (WHMs) who work in agriculture or food processing will be exempt from the six month work limitation with the one employer and eligible for a further visa to keep working in these critical sectors if their current visa is due to expire in the next six months.

• Conditions will be placed upon visa holders to self-isolate for 14 days before taking up employment in a different region (including termination of visas where there is non-compliance).

• To support implementation of self-isolation arrangements for visa holders and avoid spread of COVID-19 the government is working with states and territories on enforcement and sanction mechanisms.

• Employers will need to commit to providing safe accommodation for agricultural workers that complies with social distancing requirements.

• Arrangement will also need to be in place for a declaration between employers and employees that all protocols necessary to ensure human health and accommodation requirements have been met.

Covid-19: TAFE NSW offers 21 Fee-Free Short Courses

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, TAFE NSW, in conjunction with the NSW Government, is offering a number of fee-free* short courses that can be completed in just days or weeks, offering practical skills and experiences across a range of industries.

It’s hoped that the free courses will provide an opportunity for people to upskill while in home isolation, either to add to their existing skills and employment or to gain new skills in preparation for returning to the workforce.

Courses on offer cover Administration Skills, Enhancing Your Digital Impact, Grow Health and Medical Knowledge, Improve Leadership Performance, and Practical Business Skills.

Covid-19: New Australian Government Jobs Hub

In this rapidly changing jobs market, the Australian Government is supporting businesses and those Australians looking for work by launching a jobs hub.

While many businesses have been adversely affected by COVID-19 and are reducing their workforces, there are some areas of the economy which have an increased demand for workers.

This includes jobs in health and care sectors, transport and logistics, some areas of retail, mining and mining services, manufacturing, agriculture and government sectors, among others.

The Jobs Hub helps you find advertised vacancies.

There are connections to employers with multiple job opportunities and Australian Government Jobs as well as the ability to search jobs by location.

The site also includes assistance for employers who are hiring, particularly those who are quickly scaling up their workforce.

Department of Regional NSW to take on urgent needs of the bush

The NSW Government today established the new Department of Regional NSW to better coordinate support for communities, businesses and farmers in the bush that have endured drought, bushfire and flood and now face the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said the department will bring together Primary Industries, Local Land Services, Resources and Geoscience and regional coordination across government to form a central agency dedicated to regional issues. 

“We are urgently responding to the desperate needs of people in the regions and this new agency will work to ensure community wellbeing, resilient economies and strong key regional industries,” Mr Barilaro said. 

“We know that the issues faced by the people of Cootamundra are very different to those faced in Coogee and so it is imperative we have a government designed to properly support every corner of this state. 

“The COVID-19 pandemic has made a big impact on what has already been a devastating start to 2020, as farmers continue to suffer through the worst drought in recorded history and towns torn apart by bushfires continue to feel the effects months on.  

“The new Department of Regional NSW will be a voice in government for people in the bush and will have a laser-like focus on the challenges and opportunities unique to regional communities, helping them to get through hardships many of us have not seen in our time.

“This department will allow a more streamlined response to regional issues as experts in areas such as primary industries, land management, resources, regional development, drought response and bushfire recovery work closer together than ever before.”

Mr Barilaro said the department will drive the delivery of recent bushfire and COVID-19 stimulus and industry recovery packages along with the NSW Government’s drought initiatives, $1.7 billion Regional Growth Fund and $4.2 billion Snowy Hydro Legacy Fund.

“I said that regional communities would get their fair share and to date, we have fulfilled that commitment, from securing billions in funding to the urgent measures we have rolled out for farmers, business owners and families,” Mr Barilaro said.

The Department of Regional NSW will be led by incoming Secretary Gary Barnes, currently the Coordinator General, Regional NSW, Department of Planning, Industry and Environment.

Covid-19: Locals to fill the medical supply chain

The NSW Government is calling on manufacturers around the State to help fill gaps in the global supply of medical equipment and hygiene products, redeploying spare capacity to save lives and jobs.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres today launched a portal for companies to offer to build parts or supply eight urgently needed items during the COVID-19 crisis.

Ms Berejiklian said the world was running short on hand sanitiser, handwash soap, gloves, cleaning products, protective clothing, masks, eyewear and paper products.

“This is a call to arms for NSW manufacturers to look at ways to convert production lines into making the items we so desperately need,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“We have the ability within NSW to meet our local demand and the Government is moving to help manufacturers re-tool quickly to achieve this.

“Importantly, providing this opportunity to manufacturers will also allow some businesses to keep people in jobs when they may not have been able to do so.”

Local alcohol makers are already converting to produce items such as hand sanitiser, while other firms have switched to face masks, providing much-needed equipment while keeping their business going and safeguarding jobs.

With supply of Personal Protective Equipment and disinfectant expected to be constrained for at least 12 months, further opportunities exist for other NSW companies to join them.

Mr Ayres said the Government will use information provided through the portal to connect the supply chain so more finished products can be provided where needed.

“This is an opportunity for businesses to not only diversify their supply but produce incredibly important products for our State in a time of need,” Mr Ayres said.

“We will work to find solutions to provide our hospitals and our people with the protection they need, while keeping as many workers as possible in a job,” Mr Ayres said.

Businesses can register their interest from Wednesday, 1 April.

Covid-19: $110 million initiative Securing freight access for Australian agricultural and fisheries exporters

A new $110 million initiative will back Australia’s agricultural and fisheries sector by helping them export their high-quality produce into key overseas markets, with return flights bringing back vital medical supplies, medicines and equipment.  

In addition, around $10 million in Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) levies will also be waived for all Commonwealth fishers, ensuring they do not have to pay Commonwealth levies for the remainder of 2020. 

Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the International Freight Assistance Mechanism would help secure freight flights into Australia’s key export markets. 

“This will help restore key freight routes for our farmers until commercial capacity can be restored again,” Mr McCormack said.

“We are doing everything possible to help our high-value agricultural and fisheries exporters get their produce on airplanes and into overseas markets.

“Everything we are doing as a Government in response to this pandemic is focused on saving lives and saving livelihoods and we know our agriculture industry is key to this.” 

Federal Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said the COVID-19 pandemic had led to major air freight shortages and had disrupted supply chains around the world.
 
“This temporary action will help Australian producers to protect the jobs of those who rely upon Australia’s export of safe, quality food into the world,” Minister Birmingham said. 

“Getting our export sector back on its feet is crucial to reduce job losses through the crisis and a critical part of the ultimate economic recovery. 

“By getting flights off the ground, full of Australian produce, we’re supporting our farmers and fishers who have been hit hard by this crisis.”

Federal Agriculture Minister David Littleproud said this initiative would focus on high-demand agricultural and fisheries exports who have been hit hard by the COVID-19 crisis.
 
“We’re backing our farmers by making sure they can get more of their high-quality product into overseas markets,” Minister Littleproud said.
 
“The more agricultural exports we can secure, the more regional jobs we can protect.”

Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries Jonno Duniam said the freight assistance and levy relief was a lifeline for Australian fishers.

“The fishing industry was one of the first hit when access to China was cut off in January, bringing many in the industry to their knees,” Assistant Minister Duniam said.

“Unlocking key international markets will get thousands of fishers, divers, deckhands and processors back on the job, and the levy relief will help to keep fishers financially afloat. 

“Our seafood industry has been built on the back of some of the toughest and most resilient Australians, and this assistance will ensure that the sector can build a bridge to recovery.”

The International Freight Assistance Mechanism will initially focus on the key markets of China, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore and the UAE, with four key departure hubs: Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth.

It will be overseen by Mr Michael Byrne, who has been appointed as the International Freight Coordinator General. Mr Byrne has significant international logistics experience as Managing Director of Australia’s two largest logistics companies Toll Holdings and Linfox plus as a non-executive director of Australia Post.  

Mr Byrne will work with Austrade to help establish arrangements with exporters, airlines, freight forwarders and industry bodies plus oversee the mechanism’s operations including advising the Government of destinations, freight selection and prioritisation.  

The initiative is part of the Government’s $1 billion Relief and Recovery Fund to support regions, communities and industry sectors that have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19.  

Covid-19: Support for Business from your bank

If you’re dealing with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, or facing the impacts of drought, bushfire or flood, there are practical ways your bank can help

Australian banks have hardship teams ready to help you, depending on your circumstances.

Assistance could include:

• deferring loan payments,

• waiving fees and charges,

• helping with debt consolidation,

• waiving penalties for early withdrawal of a term deposit or

• deferring upcoming credit card payments and increasing emergency limits

Contact details if you’re doing it tough

Contact your bank’s financial hardship team on the web or on the phone.

A downloadable list is available here.

Covid-19: Expressions of Interest Sought for Swab Suppliers

An Expression of Interest published on AusTender is seeking to identify suppliers of swabs used for testing for COVID-19 in Australia as well as other equipment such as gloves, goggles and gowns.

The required swabs collect samples from the nose and throat and are the critical first stage of the testing process for COVID-19. Diagnosis is the important first step in both treating affected individuals and, through isolation and quarantine, reducing the risk of transmission and infection.  

Given current global demand for supplies related to COVID-19, the Australian Government is working to ensure reliable and sustainable supplies to collection centres such as laboratories and hospitals.  The supply of traditional swabs is a critical part of the Australian Government's health response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Any questions associated with the Expression of Interest may be directed by email to covidtestingsupplies@industry.gov.au.

Please note responses to the Expression of Interest will close on Wednesday 25 March 2020. 

Q. Where can I find the information for the RFI?

The information is available via AusTender and also on the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources' website.

Q. Who can I contact if I have questions about the RFI?

All questions are to be sent via email to PersonalProtectiveEquipment@industry.gov.au. The Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources will respond to questions via AusTender in the form of an addenda.

Covid-19 Relaxation of Student Visa Working Hours

Some sectors including Supermarkets and Aged Care facilities will be able to apply for relaxation of enforcement of student visa working hours.

This will allow them to give more working hours to international students who are currently restricted to 40 hours per fortnight.

International students ready to fill critical staff shortages in aged care

Find out more on the Department of Home Affairs Website