NSW COVID-19 support package announced

The Morrison and Berejiklian Governments continue to work together to support households and businesses in New South Wales during the current COVID-19 lockdown.

Under a new combined support package, the COVID-19 Disaster Payment will be further expanded and increased. The Commonwealth and NSW will also enter into a new 50/50 cost sharing arrangement for a new business support payment to be implemented and administered by NSW.

From week four of a lockdown because of a Commonwealth Government declared hotspot, the COVID-19 Disaster Payment will increase to $600 if a person has lost 20 or more hours of work a week or $375 if a person has lost between 8 and less than 20 hours of work a week.

The Commonwealth and NSW have also agreed that from 18 July 2021 the COVID-19 Commonwealth Disaster Payment will be available to those outside Commonwealth declared hotspots in NSW that meet the criteria for the payment.

The NSW Government will fund any payments outside a Commonwealth declared hotspot, with the Commonwealth continuing to fund payments to recipients in a Commonwealth declared hotspot.

This support will be offered to any other state or territory that experiences an extended lockdown.

A new business support payment will also be available to entities with an annual turnover between $75,000 and $50 million who can demonstrate a 30 per cent decline in turnover.

To receive the payment, eligible entities will be required to maintain their full time, part time and long term casual staffing level as of 13 July 2021.

Eligible entities, which includes not-for-profits, will receive payments of between $1500 and $10,000 per week based on the level of their payroll.

For non-employing businesses, such as sole traders, the payment will be set at $1000 per week.

The new small business support payment combined with the substantial income support being provided through the COVID-19 Disaster Payment will mean businesses and individuals who have been affected by this extended lockdown will get the support they need to get to the other side.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said as the pandemic evolved so did the responses from the Commonwealth and state governments.

“Up until now the Commonwealth has provided the same support to that offered to all other states and territories, consistent with the national approach agreed by National Cabinet last month,” the Prime Minister said.

“As the outbreak has worsened well beyond what we have recently seen in other states and territories, it is in the national interest to enable increased assistance, in partnership with the NSW Government, for workers, business and households, to ensure the lockdown can be maintained to arrest the latest outbreak.

“This new support represents a new national approach and will apply to other states and territories in the event they face similar circumstances.

“We’ve been working closely with the NSW Government to ensure we can deliver targeted and timely support that gets where it needs to be as quickly as possible.

“As lockdowns extend into another week in NSW, households and businesses need this assistance to get them through the lockdown to the other side, ready to reopen."

The Commonwealth and NSW governments will also deliver a $17.35 million mental health support package for NSW including for services through Lifeline, headspace and Kid’s Helpline.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the support package would help businesses and families across NSW get through a difficult period.

“Our number one priority remains the health and safety of the people of NSW while also keeping our economy strong as we manage the current COVID-19 challenge,” the NSW Premier said.

“We are pleased to be able to increase our targeted support in conjunction with the Commonwealth and this assistance will ensure we get through the lockdown and come out stronger on the other side.”

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said the Morrison Government was stepping up to support NSW households and business when they need it most as the state seeks to suppress the delta variant.

“The outbreak in NSW is a timely reminder we are still in the midst of a global pandemic and that there is much work to do to secure our economic recovery,” the Treasurer said.

“The new small business support payment, to be funded on a 50/50 basis with the NSW Government, will support up to an estimated 500,000 entities employing more than 3 million people.”

“Our increased support builds on the $52.4 billion we have already delivered to households and businesses in NSW during the pandemic.”

NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the package would help thousands of businesses across the State.

"We have done this before and we can do it again and this targeted support will help those who need it,” the NSW Treasurer said.

“If you’re a worker, a sole trader, a small or medium business or a big employer – we've got your back.

“This package will help families and businesses weather the current storm and ensure we can hit the ground running once this current outbreak is under control."

More information will be available on the Service NSW website later this week.

Major new Covid-19 Support Package to Help Tens of Thousands of Businesses Across NSW

The NSW Government today announced a major new grants package and changes to the Dine & Discover program to help tens of thousands of small businesses and people across NSW impacted by the current COVID-19 restrictions.

The package includes grants of between $5,000 and $10,000 for small businesses, payroll tax deferrals for all employers, an extension of the Dine & Discover program to 31 August and the ability for people to use Dine & Discover vouchers for takeaway delivered directly to their home by the venue itself.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the centrepiece of the package was the small business support grants which will help businesses by alleviating cashflow constraints while trading is restricted. This can be used for business expenses such as rent, utilities and wages, for which no other government support is available.

“We always said we will do whatever it takes to support businesses and keep people in jobs during the pandemic and that is exactly what we are doing,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“The current restrictions are in place to protect people and keep the community safe, unfortunately businesses continue to incur costs such as rent, power and lost produce, and this will go some way to lessening that financial pain.”

Three different grant amounts will be available for small businesses depending on the decline in turnover experienced during the restrictions - $10,000 for a 70 per cent decline, $7,000 for a 50 per cent decline and $5,000 for a 30 per cent decline.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro said the new grants would be available across NSW.

“This latest outbreak has coincided with school holidays when a lot of regional areas were counting on more visitors to help boost local economies,” Mr Barilaro said.

“These grants will help many get through the winter, and just like after the bushfires, the floods and the first wave of COVID-19, the regions will lead NSW out the other side.”

NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the small business grants would be available for sole traders and non-for-profit organisations, with expanded criteria to assist most hospitality and tourism operators hit hard by the restrictions during school holidays.

“The NSW economy rebounded strongly from the challenges of 2020 and we’re taking action to ensure we keep that going. We are deploying our fiscal firepower when it matters, by helping small businesses stay in business and keep people in jobs,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Once again we are delivering timely and targeted support to keep businesses in business and people in jobs as we work together to overcome this latest challenge.”

Businesses will be able to apply for the grants through Service NSW from later in July and will need to show a decline in turnover across a minimum two-week period after the commencement of major restrictions on June 26.

The grants will be divided into two streams:

1. Small Business COVID-19 Support Grant. Available to businesses and sole traders with a turnover of more than $75,000 per annum but below the NSW Government 2020-21 payroll tax threshold of $1,200,000 as at 1 July 2020.

These businesses must have fewer than 20 full time equivalent employees and an Australian Business Number (ABN) registered in New South Wales or be able to demonstrate they are physically located and primarily operating in New South Wales. (Full criteria will be available in coming days on the Service NSW website).

2. Hospitality and Tourism COVID-19 Support Grant. Available to tourism or hospitality businesses that have a turnover of more than $75,000 and an annual Australian wages bill of below $10 million, as at 1 July 2020.

These business must have an Australian Business Number (ABN) registered in New South Wales or be able to demonstrate they are physically located and primarily operating in New South Wales. (Full criteria will be available in coming days on the Service NSW website).

Other key elements of the package announced today include: 

• Dine & Discover vouchers will be able to be used for takeaway from eligible and registered Dine businesses during the restriction period. Delivery direct to the home by the restaurant or café is recommended. Food may be picked up from venue but check in with QR code is required. Dine & Discover vouchers cannot be redeemed for takeaway using third party delivery platforms. 

• A further one-month extension of Dine & Discover vouchers until 31 August 2021 to allow people more time to use them. 

• More than $11 million for increased support for people at risk of homelessness plus assistance to vulnerable temporary visa holders, asylum seekers and refugees. 

• An optional deferral of payroll tax payments due in July 2021 and the deferral of hotel June quarter gaming machine tax, with the Chief Commissioner of State Revenue able to provide for appropriate repayment arrangements on a case by case basis.

More information on the small business support grants and changes to the Dine & Discover program will be available shortly on the Service NSW website.

Nominations now open for Telstra Business Awards

Telstra invites all New South Wales-based businesses under 200 employees to nominate and enter across eight categories of the Telstra Best of Business Awards. The new program continues Telstra’s long legacy of awards programs that recognise exceptional leaders and small businesses.

This year’s topic is Local Leadership - a category that champions small businesses who are excelling in their role of building a thriving community of the future. This comes after research showed 96 per cent of consumers said they considered small businesses an important part of their community.

 Anyone can nominate an exceptional business by heading to the website today: www.telstrabestofbusinessawards.com

 Celebrating Australian small business with the Telstra Best of Business Awards

RDA Riverina NSW Growing Regions of Welcome Pilot Program

This Refugee Week we celebrate Mai Pham - a resident of Regional NSW for 17 years.

To celebrate Refugee Week, the NSW Government has announced a $3 million program to assist interested migrants in western Sydney to relocate to regional NSW for employment and lifestyle opportunities.

The three-year NSW Growing Regions of Welcome (NSW GROW) pilot program aims to strengthen regional community capability to attract and retain newcomers and assist with relocation to the Riverina and Murray areas.

The NSW Coordinator General for Settlement, Professor Peter Shergold says NSW GROW reflects the strong cross-sector relationships across all levels of government, community and industry to support successful settlement and strong NSW communities.

“This program will address critical workforce needs in regional NSW that would usually be filled through overseas migration.

“NSW GROW will support coordinated efforts across sectors to create secondary migration linkages between western Sydney and regional NSW and drive sustainable social and economic outcomes for participating regional communities and newcomers alike.”

In western Sydney, a Regional Employment Hub will provide a gateway for interested western Sydney-based newcomers to connect with identified opportunities in the regions.

Backbone coordinators in both locations will support the design and implementation of plans to attract and retain people arriving from western Sydney.

In the Riverina, Regional Development Australia (RDA) Riverina will employ the Backbone Coordinator role.

Rachel Whiting, the CEO of RDA Riverina says the level of job vacancy advertisements in the Riverina has reached a 10-year high.

 “We have more jobs than people in the Riverina. NSW GROW is another strategy to contribute to RDA Riverina’s workforce development plan for the region.  We know our communities are welcoming of newcomers, and we look forward to working with LGAs like Leeton and Temora Shires to welcome more people and match them with employers’ needs.”

 Multicultural NSW received $3 million funding from Training Services NSW to deliver the pilot program.

 For more information about Multicultural NSW, please visit: www.multicultural.nsw.gov.au

 Regional Development Australia Boards (RDAs) have played and continue to play an important role in delivering sustainable infrastructure and services to their region. These Boards deliver important work in consulting with communities, promoting and participating in regional initiatives, and providing information and advice on their region to all levels of Government. If you would like to learn more about how RDA Riverina is able to assist you, visit its website at www.rdariverina.org.au. Further information about the RDA program is available at www.rda.gov.au.

NSW Tourism Awards 2021

Now in its 31st year, the NSW Tourism Awards celebrate business excellence, acknowledge business innovation and reward exceptional customer service.

Parts of this year's program have been modified to reflect the business challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic over the past 12-months.

Nominations are now open! Nomination fees are $150 per category entered. Winners will be announced at a Gala Dinner to be held in Sydney in November. Relevant category winners will go on to represent NSW at the Australian Tourism Awards to be held February, 2022 on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland.

KEY DATES

Thursday 10 June Nominations open!

Wednesday 16 June Information session: Watch recording.

Friday 9 July Nominations close

Wednesday 14 July Non-accredited entrants: Business & Accommodation standards due

Wednesday 4 August Draft Submissions due. Optional; Entrant Support

August/ September Virtual business verification meetings

Wednesday 8 September Submissions final deadline

September / October Submission judging

Friday 15 October Finalists announced

Thursday 11 November Gala event in Sydney (date TBC)

NSW Free Preschool Here to Stay

Free preschool is now a staple for NSW families with funding confirmed in the 2021/22 NSW Budget for community and mobile preschools on Sunday 20th June 2021.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell today announced that the new Start Strong Free Preschool program will commence from January 2022.

The new program replaces the current COVID-19 free preschool program, which will conclude at the end of this year, meaning that there will be continuous cost-of-living support for parents and carers.

Mr Perrottet said the support for families and children has been a priority for the NSW Government over the last two years, with a commitment to removing a layer of financial pressure for many families.

“One of the first things we did in response to COVID-19 was to make preschool free, removing a layer of financial pressure for many families,” Mr Perrottet said.

“The program supported countless jobs, and kept children learning and engaged during some of their most important years.

‘I’m delighted that we can continue funding these crucial years in a child’s development while easing the cost of living pressures for families,” Mr Perrottet said.

Ms Mitchell said that early childhood education is an important part of development and preparation, especially in those critical two years before school.

“This is a $150 million investment in the future, as we know the first 2,000 days of a child’s life are crucial and those who experience the benefits of early childhood education grow up to lead happier, healthier and more productive lives,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Families will save up to $4,000 per year per child in preschool fees, easing cost of living pressures and helping with the balance of work and family life.

“We are committed to families, this budget includes $725 million direct investment into Early Childhood Education helping parents support their children during some of their most important years.

Up to 740 community and mobile preschools will benefit from this important investment.

Department of Education preschools will also be supported to continue offering free preschool.

NSW Leading the Charge with Electric Vehicle Rev-olution

NSW EV Super Highways

New South Wales will be the best place in Australia to buy and drive an electric vehicle (EV) under the NSW Government’s nation-leading Electric Vehicle Strategy, with almost half a billion dollar investment in tax cuts and incentives to drive an electric revolution.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said $490 million is being committed in the 2021-22 NSW Budget to cut taxes, incentivise uptake and reduce barriers for electric vehicle purchases over the next four years.

“Our comprehensive strategy is about making sure we have the right mix in place to incentivise the take-up of electric vehicles while ensuring everyone who drives on our roads contributes to funding and maintaining them,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Our strategy also commences long-term major tax reform. Today we begin the process of permanently phasing out stamp duty on electric vehicles and a deferred transition to a fair and sustainable per-kilometre road user charge for electric vehicles.

“From September this year, we will waive stamp duty for eligible EVs under $78,000 and $3,000 rebates will be up for grabs for the first 25,000 purchasers of battery and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles under $68,750.

“From young adults saving for their first car in Western Sydney to retirees planning a road trip to Broken Hill, these incentives will make electric vehicles accessible and affordable for all NSW residents.”

Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said the EV Strategy will help the NSW Government take action on climate change.

“Our transport sector currently makes up 20 per cent of the state’s emissions, with almost 50 per cent of those coming from passenger vehicles,” Mr Constance said.

“Electric vehicles are not only cheaper to run and quieter on our roads, but they also reduce both carbon emissions and air pollution which results in dramatically improved health outcomes for our communities.

“As the world’s right-hand drive market moves to manufacturing electric vehicles, we have to make sure we have the policies in place to give industry the green light to increase model availability and cut entry price points.

“The average NSW driver will save around $1,000 a year in running costs by switching to an EV, and those savings can be up to $7,500 a year for businesses, taxis and freight.”

Energy and Environment Minister Matt Kean said we need to give drivers more options to make their next car an EV.

“Countries and car makers around the world are moving to EVs and NSW consumers deserve access to the latest vehicle models when they go to buy a car,” Mr Kean said.

“We also know that, with new cars staying on the road 15 years on average, the vast majority of new cars sold in NSW need to be EVs by 2035 to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

“Our aim is to increase EV sales to more than 50 per cent of new cars sold in NSW by 2030 and for EVs to be the vast majority of new cars sold in the State by 2035.

“This nation-leading plan will help us achieve these objectives by tackling the three biggest barriers to purchasing an EV – range anxiety, upfront cost, and model availability – and is forecast to see EV new car sales hit 52 per cent by 2030-31.

“We want new and cheaper models of EVs to be available here in NSW and this strategy is designed to drive that outcome.”

The $490 million in funding and tax cuts includes:

Stamp duty will be waived for eligible electric vehicles (battery and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles) priced under $78,000 purchased from 1 September 2021;

Rebates of $3,000 will be offered on private purchases of the first 25,000 eligible EVs (battery and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles) under $68,750 sold in NSW from 1 September 2021;

$171 million for new charging infrastructure across the State. This includes $131 million to spend on new ultra-fast vehicle chargers, $20 million in grants for destination chargers to assist regional tourism, and $20 million for charging infrastructure at public transport hubs on Transport for NSW owned land.

$33 million to help transition the NSW Government passenger fleet to EVs where feasible, with the target of a fully electric fleet by 2030. These vehicles typically are onsold after three to five years, providing availability for private buyers in the second-hand market.

The Strategy builds on the programs in the State’s Net Zero Plan Stage 1: 2020-2030 and Future Transport 2056 Strategy.

For more information, visit: nsw.gov.au/electric-vehicle-reform

NSW Government commits $268.2M further in responding to NSW Bushfire Inquiry Recommendations

Firefighting drones, aerial firefighting, enhanced strategic fire trails and improvements to local emergency infrastructure and equipment will be funded by an additional $268.2 million over four years as part of the NSW Government’s response to the independent NSW Bushfire Inquiry.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott were joined by NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) Commissioner Rob Rogers AFSM, Commissioner of Resilience NSW Shane Fitzsimmons AFSM, and Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Acting Commissioner Jim Hamilton to announce the funding package.

This takes the total amount committed by the Government in response to the Bushfire Inquiry, in partnership with the Commonwealth, to more than $460 million.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the funding will help rollout critical projects that will assist firefighters to protect communities right across the State.

“This commitment will bolster the future of our fire agencies and preparedness of communities, many of whom of have personally witnessed the devastating effects of fire,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Highlights of the package include further funding for new and refurbished fire trucks, operationalising two black hawk helicopters to replace existing NSW RFS helicopters and implementing the new National Fire Danger Ratings System.”

Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said the NSW Government will continue to act on the learnings of our ‘Black Summer’ of bushfires.

“This second tranche of funding builds on our initial $192.2 million commitment which has already made a difference to our state’s preparedness for future disasters, and brings our total response to almost half a billion dollars,” Mr Elliott said.

“Whether it’s the continued funding for fleet upgrades, protective clothing, maintenance of our roads and strategic fire trails or indeed funding for drones and bushfire research, this second package puts our frontline firefighters and the safety of our communities first.”

RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers said fire agencies at all levels were working hard towards implementing the recommendations from the Inquiry.

“This commitment will assist by increasing mitigation crews on the ground, getting aviation assets in the sky, and most importantly providing safer trucks for our firefighters.”

Fire and Rescue NSW Acting Commissioner Jim Hamilton said the additional funding would go a long away in ensuring emergency services are more prepared for the future.

“The funding will deliver state-of-the-art equipment, systems and appliances so our firefighters can better protect the NSW community in years to come,” Acting Commissioner Hamilton said.

Commissioner of Resilience NSW Shane Fitzsimmons said resourcing local communities was paramount for an effective response.

“We know local communities and their efforts are the frontline of response, but also key to preparedness for the disasters that will most likely impact them,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

The $268.2 million funding package includes:

$50.9 million to support firefighting tanker replacement and safety retrofits for frontline NSW RFS, FRNSW, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and Forestry Corps NSW fleet;

$37.6 million for the continued funding of additional mitigation crews in the NSW Rural Fire Service and NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service to deliver greater hazard reduction;

$34.4 million to accelerate the state-wide delivery of strategic fire trails;

$22.7 million for a personal protective clothing replacement program for FRNSW;

$19.9 million to upgrade the FRNSW dispatch systems;

$17.2 million to operationalise two black hawk helicopters to replace existing NSW RFS helicopters;

$10.6 million to assist with the implementation of the new National Fire Danger Rating System;

$6.7 million to enhance firefighter safety through fire ground tracking, training and accreditation of heavy plant machinery operators; and

$5.2 million for additional drones for firefighting operations.

The NSW Bushfire Inquiry was commissioned by Premier Gladys Berejiklian to examine the causes, preparation and response to the devastating 2019-20 Summer Bushfires. The NSW Government has accepted the 76 recommendations.

NSW Government Shorter Payment Terms and Preferencing to Benefit Small Business

The NSW Government will deliver on shorter payment times for small business and a refreshed SME and Regional Procurement Policy from 1 July, as part of the 2021-22 NSW Budget.

Large businesses who contract with NSW Government agencies for goods and services contracts valued at more than $7.5 million will be required to pay small business subcontractors within 20 business days, following the success of a pilot program earlier this year.

Minister for Finance and Small Business Damien Tudehope said the Small Business Shorter Payment Terms Policy was being introduced to better support small businesses engaged as direct subcontractors on Government projects.

“Cashflow can be a major issue for small businesses and the new policy will support the important role small businesses play in the NSW economy,” Mr Tudehope said.

“There is a growing focus on the payment performance of large businesses to small businesses and it is vital the NSW Government leads the way, in particular as the small business sector continues to recover from the impacts of COVID-19.”

The new policy builds on the NSW Government’s existing Faster Payment Terms Policy, under which payment times for small businesses directly engaged by the NSW Government were cut from 20 days to five days in 2020.

It also complements the Federal Government’s Payment Times Reporting Scheme which requires certain large businesses with a total annual income of more than $100 million to publicly report on their payment terms and practices to their small business suppliers.

“This is about ensuring small businesses are paid quickly, making it easier for them to pay staff and bills without the stress of not knowing when the next cheque will come in,” Mr Tudehope said.

The 2021-22 NSW Budget will also include a refreshed Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) and Regional Procurement Policy.

“The SME and Regional Procurement Policy was introduced in 2019, providing a range of measures to increase opportunities for SMEs and regional businesses to supply goods and services to the NSW Government. While its impact has been positive, we want to continually improve small business participation in our supply chain,” Mr Tudehope said.

Following industry consultation, changes introduced under the refreshed policy will include:

Increasing the current general exemption of $50,000 for small businesses to $150,000 for SMEs and regional businesses, meaning they can be directly engaged by agencies for goods or services up to that value, even where there is a whole-of-government contract in place;

Requiring agencies to first consider SMEs for procurements up to $3 million, where direct engagement is permitted;

Increasing the value that Government places on suppliers which deliver economic, ethical, environmental and social outcomes through a contract; and

Requiring suppliers tendering for contracts valued at more than $3 million to submit an SME and Local Participation Plan, which will become contractually binding.

For more on the Small Business Shorter Payment Terms Policy and refreshed SME and Regional Procurement Policy go to buy.nsw.gov.au

NSW Government Announces new $28M mission to tackle bushfire threat

The NSW Government will direct $28 million into research and development and promoting new and emerging industries and technology to better prepare the state for future bushfires.

NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the NSW Bushfire Response R&D Mission will receive $7 million per year for the next four years as part of this year’s 2021-22 NSW Budget to be handed down next week.

“The 2019-20 bushfires claimed lives, destroyed thousands of homes and cost NSW billions, this investment will go towards reducing the impact of bushfires and responding in the most effective way possible,” Mr Perrottet said.

“This focus on new technology to enhance planning, preparation and response will save jobs when a disaster strikes and boost jobs in new industries.

"NSW is unfortunately one of the world's bushfire hotspots, so it makes sense that we should package our hard won know-how and take it to the world."

Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier Gabrielle Upton said the establishment of R&D Missions will address long-term strategic challenges facing NSW, and was a priority action of the “Turning Ideas into Jobs – Accelerating Research & Development in NSW Action Plan” launched in January 2021 by Premier Gladys Berejiklian.

“R&D Missions tackle complex challenges that require the integration and translation of research and technology across government agencies,” Ms Upton said.

“This funding will help establish a Bushfire Technology Network, engage NSW small business to develop and commercialise bushfire technologies and ensure that new technologies are tested by frontline NSW bushfire services.”

The funding will also help address a number of recommendations from the NSW Bushfire inquiry such as establishing NSW as a major world centre for bush fire research, and technology development and commercialisation.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said the NSW Government has committed to acting on the lessons learnt from the 2019-20 bush fires.

“Bush fire research is a key recommendation of the independent NSW Bushfire Inquiry and is crucial to ensuring that our emergency services can continue to have the best training and technology that will keep our state safe,” Mr Elliott said.

“The continued investment into research goes hand-in-hand with the NSW Government’s record budget for Emergency Services and continued investment into initiatives that address recommendations from the Bushfire Inquiry.”

Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte, NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer, said the Bushfire Response Mission will have a strong focus on technology.

“The Mission will develop the use of real-time data from space, air and ground-based assets, ensure fire ground decisions made are based on information and computeraided tools, and enable the use of equipment including robots to aid responders,” Mr Durrant-Whyte said.

“Technologies from NSW companies which prove themselves will attract interest from global markets.”

Chair of the Advisory Council David Gonski AC welcomed the Bushfire Response Mission launch.

“The impact of COVID-19 on economic growth makes the task to commercialise more R&D an urgent one,” Mr Gonski said.

“Focussing the commercialisation of technologies on solving one of our state’s greatest challenges is an excellent step in bringing together and promoting the relevant research and development efforts of the business, research sectors and communities across NSW.”

The NSW Government has committed a further $8 million in funding over two years to establish an Emerging Industry Infrastructure Fund.

This fund will target new industries where NSW potentially has a comparative advantage and where co-investment in joint infrastructure will both build on existing industry and attract global companies and investment into NSW.

Potential investments include the development of sovereign semiconductor production capabilities and the consolidation of NSW’s leading position in synthetic biology.

NSW $30M fund to activate Tourism in Regional NSW

Big ticket tourism attractions that will put regional towns on the map and improve accessibility for people with disability are set to receive a significant funding boost, thanks to the NSW Government.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro, Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh were in Coffs Harbour last week to announce the new $30 million Regional Tourism Activation Fund which will deliver new or upgraded tourism infrastructure as well as improve accessibility and inclusion for people with disability.

“This brand new fund will support the construction of new iconic visitor experiences, such as cliff-top walks or unique event spaces, boosting the profile of regional NSW towns and giving people even more reasons to take a holiday in the regions,” Mr Barilaro said.

“We are also supporting accessibility and inclusion improvements by funding upgrades such as a lift in a multi-level venue and clear access pathways to give more people with disability the opportunity to experience what our regions have to offer.”

Mr Perrottet said supporting tourism also supports local jobs and expands local economies, creating beneficial flow-on effects for traders and creates new opportunities for investment.

“With few overseas travel options available, the NSW Government is strengthening tourism in regional NSW. This funding will ensure the industry prospers and continues to play an important role in our economy,” Mr Perrottet said.

Mr Singh welcomed the funding announcement which happened today at the Coffs Harbour Forest Sky Pier, saying the funding will bring even more visitors to regional NSW each year.

“Coffs Harbour recently held the Sharks VS Titans NRL match and next week the Super W Rugby tournament starts, putting the North Coast on the map, not only as a place to host word class events, but as a place to come enjoy your holidays,” Mr Singh said.

Under Stream One, grants between $200,000 and $5 million are available for projects delivering unique and high impact visitor experiences, while Stream Two provides grants between $50,000 to $500,000 for projects that will improve the accessibility and inclusion of tourism experiences for people with disability.

The $30 million Regional Tourism Activation Fund is part of the $2 billion Regional Growth Fund. Applications open 16 June and close on 11 August 2021. For more information, go to: www.nsw.gov.au/RTAFund.

NSW Government extends Regional Seniors Travel Card

More than 300,000 seniors in the regions will benefit from reduced travel costs with the NSW Government committing $246 million to extend the Regional Seniors Travel Card for an additional two years.

The Regional Seniors Travel Card is a $250 prepaid Visa card designed to ease the burden of travel costs for eligible seniors in rural, regional and remote areas.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said seniors across NSW have benefited from the initial two-year travel card trial, with 337,500 cards issued in 2020 and more than 330,000 cards issued to regional seniors in 2021 so far.

“Living in regional NSW is rewarding in so many ways, but every day we struggle with the tyranny of distance,” Mr Barilaro said.

“This card has made a huge difference to the lives of seniors living in the bush who have fewer transport options than those living in the city and we’re excited to announce it will be offered again in 2022 and 2023.”

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the extension and expansion of the Regional Seniors Travel Card is part of several cost saving measures aimed at seniors in the upcoming State Budget.

“We know the cost of living is a big issue facing seniors and households, which is why the Regional Seniors Travel Card is being offered to even more people,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Increased funding will allow us to extend the card from 2022 to more seniors in the regions, including those eligible for the Age Pension and receiving either a Disability Support Pension or a Carer Payment from Services Australia.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the Regional Seniors Travel Card has provided a significant boost to businesses across our regions.

“Having an extra $250 in their pocket has made it easier for regional seniors to get to the shops and medical appointments and stay connected locally and with friends and family living in other parts of the State. It’s also injected more than $108 million into regional economies, benefitting local taxi operators and fuel stations,” Mr Toole said.

“We’ve been reviewing the schemes that support people with disability and carers to ensure they meet the needs of those in the regions, including investing in community transport and a new smart card for the Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme. We know these groups would also like to be eligible for the Regional Seniors Travel Card and we’re pleased to be able to make that happen as part of the next phase of this program.”

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said it was great to see the program continue to expand, after first being trialed in Coffs Harbour.

“Coffs Harbour seniors were the first to try the Regional Seniors Travel Card a year and a half ago and it’s wonderful to see how far the scheme has come since. It’s made a huge impact on our community and I’m glad it is set to continue for two more years,” Mr Singh said.

The Regional Seniors Travel Card can be used for pre-booked NSW Trainlink Regional trains and coaches, fuel and taxis.

From 2022, eligible applicants will include seniors who have reached the Age Pension age and are receiving:

•  The Age Pension through Services Australia or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs

•  A Disability Support Pension or a Carer Payment from Services Australia

•  A Service Pension issued by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs

•  A Disability Pension through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs under the

• Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986

•  A War Widow(er)’s Pension issued by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

People who hold a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card issued by Services Australia or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs are also eligible.

The regional boundaries for applicants will remain the same in 2022. More information about which regional areas are included in this initiative can be found at www.service.nsw.gov.au.

NSW Government $7.7M Boost for ADHD and Behavioural Support in Regional NSW

The NSW Government will invest $7.7 million to trial a new model of care and management for children with behavioural issues including attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in regional NSW.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the funding would be included in the upcoming 2021-22 NSW Budget to provide greater support for families in the bush.

“This is about ensuring kids and young people across our State are able to get the help they need when challenges arise. We don’t want families to just survive, we want them to thrive and meeting health needs plays a vital part in that,” Mr Perrottet said.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the pilot program will give people greater access to vital services closer to home.

“We are pleased to invest in a trial that will help children and young people with behavioural issues including ADHD and their families seek the care they need in their local community,” Mr Hazzard said.

“Medical and allied health staff will be employed in regional areas to work directly with the families to help children and young people transition from school to tertiary education or work while managing their behavioural issues.”

The mixed model service will connect children and young people with behavioural management and support needs to a range of state-wide services including:

• existing diagnostic services;

• paediatric psychiatry support;

• tertiary children’s services;

• transition care and management; and

• telehealth and outreach clinics.

The trial builds on the recommendations of the Henry Review which examined the current model of care for the assessment and management of children and young people with behavioural issues including ADHD in NSW.

“We have taken on board the three recommendations of the Henry Review, and the new model of care will be informed by input from medical and allied health staff across NSW,” Mr Hazzard said.

In 2021-22, the NSW Government will contribute $1.8 million funding for the ADHD pilot program, with a total investment of $7.7 million over four years.

NSW Government Funding Boost for Aboriginal Programs, Housing and Infrastructure

The NSW Government has announced $350 million for vital Aboriginal programs to further support some of the most vulnerable people and families in the state.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the 2021-22 Budget continues the $212 million funding announced last year as part of the Government’s COVID-19 recovery plan, which is already making a difference to Aboriginal peoples across the state.

“This budget is not just about dollars; it is about our commitment to ensure funding is directed to the areas where it can make the most difference for Aboriginal communities across our state,” Mr Perrottet said.

The investment of $350 million includes:

$259.6 million capital investment over four years by Aboriginal Housing Office to deliver around 250 new Aboriginal Housing dwellings across the State, and 7,000 upgrades to AHO and community owned homes.

$34.1 million in funding to expand the Roads to Home program for up to 10 additional communities based in regional NSW, over three years to ensure Aboriginal communities across NSW have access to public infrastructure and civil services many take for granted

$30 million over four years to pilot a range of social impact investments, with the first round of investments prioritised to supporting the social and economic wellbeing of women experiencing disadvantage, including young Aboriginal women

$11.6 million for the continuation of the Services Our Way (SOW) program over two years

A grant of more than $4.8 million to continue funding for the Hunter Valley’s new Madoo Museum Cultural Hub. This museum, first announced in 2020, will showcase a rich collection of local Indigenous artefacts currently stored in various sites around the region, including the relocation of the renowned Morrison Collection from the Australian Museum, as well as create jobs and skills opportunities

$4.75 million grant to the Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation and Wajaana Yaam Adventure Tours to develop a wide-ranging Aboriginal experience in Coffs Harbour, including developing an ecocultural tourism facility and outdoor amphitheatre

$4.4 million for the Birubi Point Aboriginal Place Tourism Transport Interchange, first announced in 2018.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Don Harwin said the NSW Government’s investment in this area highlights how it is listening to the community and is committed to ensuring sustainable, longer term improvement in the lives of Aboriginal people in NSW.

“All Aboriginal people should have every opportunity to build the skills to thrive. By helping to achieve Closing the Gap targets, the social impact investment will support better educational outcomes,” Mr Harwin said.

“The broad range of Aboriginal projects, initiatives and services that are funded in this budget show just how seriously we are working to provide support to Aboriginal people.”

Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said the NSW Government is focused on reducing homelessness, supporting victims of family and domestic violence, and protecting vulnerable children, while also increasing the number of Aboriginal people reaching their full potential.

“The Government is investing in a range of services to reach more Aboriginal people, families and communities to disrupt the cycle of inter-generational disadvantage, which benefits everyone,” Mrs Pavey said.

“Whether it’s putting rooves over the heads of our most vulnerable, the Roads to Home Program providing better access to infrastructure and services, or SOW supporting 22 Local Government Areas with culturally appropriate and trauma-sensitive support – we are dedicated to ensuring our communities get the support they need.”

NSW to welcome back international students under pilot plan

International students are expected to be welcomed back under a NSW Government pilot plan for their safe return over the second half of the year, to help kick-start the billion-dollar industry.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said international students are a vital missing piece in the State’s economic recovery, with the sector worth $14.6 billion in 2019.

This will benefit tens of thousands of NSW residents whose jobs rely on this industry across retail, hospitality and many other fields.

The pilot plan will initially see a limited number of students from a range of countries in purpose-built student accommodation adhering to the same quarantine requirements as all incoming travellers.

“International education is our second most valuable export and we need to do what we can to help students return and revive this sector as quickly as possible,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Typically, we have more than 250,000 international students studying in NSW each year and they directly supported over 95,000 local jobs prior to the pandemic. If we don’t act fast, students will turn to other overseas destinations and it could take the sector decades to recover.

“That’s why we’ve developed a pilot plan supported by NSW Health and NSW Police that enables 250 international students to come to Sydney per fortnight from mid-year, in a gradual approach that will enable us to closely manage the process and ensure community health is not compromised.”

The international student allocation will be in addition to the current number of returning Australians allowed into NSW each week. “This won’t come at the expense of returning Aussies. We will continue to bring back 3,000 people per week – well more than any other state,” Mr. Perrottet said.

NSW Health would triage arriving students and direct them to quarantine at specially approved student accommodation at no cost to taxpayers. The first of these sites has been chosen, with contract negotiations well advanced.

It is estimated that the combined impact of closed international borders, including on students and tourism, could be as high as $1.5 billion per month for NSW. This is a major contributing factor to the CBD’s slower economic recovery rate.

“This is a crucial sector for NSW and Australia, and we will work with the Commonwealth and education sector to achieve the best outcome,” Mr Perrottet said.

Professor Barney Glover AO, on behalf of the NSW Vice-Chancellors’ Committee, welcomed the State’s approval of the Program after working collaboratively for several months to commence the safe return of international students to NSW.

“As at May this year, there were many higher education students diligently studying offshore – many of whom expect to return to our campuses to finish their studies. This Program has carefully considered the personal, social and academic aspects of our students, to ensure they successfully resume their studies and re-join NSW’s vibrant, multicultural community as soon as possible,” Professor Glover said.

“We are excited to finally welcome back international students to experience the worldclass education, training and research that makes NSW such an attractive destination for education.”

Council of International Students President, Belle Lim was extremely encouraged to learn that the NSW Plan had been submitted for review.

“We are so happy to see that international students will be welcomed back to NSW. This sends a great message to international students studying online offshore that there is hope that things will return to normal again,” Ms Lim said.

“We are pleased to see the cautious approach but are hopeful the numbers of students arriving will scale over time. CISA strongly supports the detailed planning that has been done by NSW.”

The NSW plan has been submitted to the Federal Government for final review

$36.4 Million for Mental Health Support in the regions

Regional and Rural communities facing ongoing adversity in the wake of natural disasters will have access to more mental health support than ever before.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor recently announced a $36.4m package for Response and Recovery Specialists across regional and rural NSW will be included in the 2021-22 NSW Budget.

Mr Perrottet said this announcement continues the NSW Government’s significant investment in mental health services, including a record $2.4 billion in last year’s budget.

“We know families and people have been doing it tough in these areas, facing drought, bushfires, COVID-19 and now a mice plague, and this package will offer continued mental health support to those in need,” Mr Perrottet said.

“We want to ensure people not only get help at the time of a disaster, but that it’s accessible during the recovery phase so communities can bounce back and people can rebuild lives.”

Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said 57 Response and Recovery Specialists would ensure quality services were available at all times.

“When the unprecedented drought and bushfires were crippling our state, these counsellors were there to support communities and now they’re on hand to help those affected by other disasters like the mice plague too.” Mrs Taylor said.

The Response and Recovery Specialists provide mental health counselling, coordination with local services and communities and ongoing support to individuals and their families at locations of their choosing, whether at home or in the local cafe.

“The best thing about these extra 57 mental health specialists is people don’t need to go to their GP to be referred. They can access them through the mental health line or other local services.

“What’s unique about these roles is that the people that undertake this work as counsellors are members of their communities and they can provide local insight, as well as a friendly soft entry to mental health support,” Mrs Taylor said.

“This is particularly important for people who are so used to facing significant adversity that they may hesitate to seek help when they need it.”

Appointment of Board Regional Development Australia Riverina

Regional Development Australia Riverina is excited to announce the appointment of its board from July 2021 until June 2023 following an open EOI process.

RDA Riverina Chair Dianna Somerville said “the independent assessor and I were pleased and very impressed with the number and calibre of applicants. This made the process extremely competitive and the decision a difficult one. “

 A number of previous board members chose not to reapply and I thank them for their contribution to RDA Riverina and their service to the region.

The new board members are:

 David Bardos – Business Development Manager Port of Melbourne

Christine Howard – Director Three Rivers University Department of Rural Health

Mark Hillis – Owner Wagga Caravans

Gary Lavelle – GM Temora Shire Council

Sue Molyneaux – Human Resources Manager Casella Family Brands

Christine Priest – General Manager Digital Business and Strategy Kurrajong

Andrew Reilly – Group Manager Shire Activation Leeton Shire Council

Dallas Tout – Manager Revenue & Payables Centre CSU, Deputy Mayor WWCC

Ray Willis – GM Riverina Local Land Services

The RDA Riverina team, led by CEO Rachel Whiting, has worked tirelessly to deliver insight and leadership across topics of economic development, migration, regionalisation and workforce strategy. RDA Boards play an important role in building strong, confident and vibrant regions. The focus of RDA Boards is to work with all levels of government, business and community groups to create jobs, attract investment and stimulate economic growth in their regions. RDA Boards also provide the Australian Government valuable regional intelligence to inform policy development and implementation

Regional Development Australia Boards (RDAs) have played and continue to play an important role in delivering sustainable infrastructure and services to their region. These Boards deliver important work in consulting with communities, promoting and participating in regional initiatives, and providing information and advice on their region to all levels of Government. If you would like to learn more about how RDA Riverina is able to assist you, visit its website at www.rdariverina.org.au. Further information about the RDA program is available at www.rda.gov.au

Regional Data Hub Survey

We know that data is critical for making evidence-based decisions in your region. RDA Riverina has a subscription service available via REMPLAN for your ongoing data needs. We are also available for smaller one-off data projects or just to track down the public datasets that you may need. Find out more on our website.

The Federal Government is calling for public input on the creation of the Regional Data Hub – a new central source of data for Australia’s regions.

Data plays a critical role in helping community decision-makers and governments improve outcomes for Australia’s regional communities. The Regional Data Hub (the Hub) will improve the evidence base for regional communities, local leaders, and industry by bringing together key economic, demographic, and socio-economic data to provide easy access for users to information about their regions. The Hub is part of the Australian Government’s $13.7 million Better Data Use to Support Delivery for Regional Australians program, announced in the 2020-21 Budget.

If you would like to have a say in the development of the Regional Data Hub the Government is looking for feedback on:
- how you use data
- what data you need
- how you access data
- if you have data you would like to share

This information will be used to help design the data hub, what data is available, and how you can access it. A six-week consultation process is now underway to understand the data and information needs of users that will help prioritise data sets made available on the Hub.

For more information, you can read the consultation paper here: https://www.communications.gov.au/have-your-say/regional-data-hub-consultation

There are two ways to provide feedback:
1. Take the survey here
2. A written submission in response to the consultation paper here
The public consultation period closes at 5pm AEST on Friday, 2 July 2021.

2021 RDA Stakeholder Survey

RDA Stakeholder Survey

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications (the Department) is conducting a short survey to obtain feedback about the effectiveness of the Regional Development Australia Committees (RDA) program in supporting economic development. As an RDA stakeholder, your feedback would be greatly appreciated and will be used to drive improvements in the program.

The survey is short and should only take a few minutes to complete. Please complete the survey by 22 June 2021.

RDA program is a national network of committees made up of local leaders who work with all levels of government, business, and community groups to support and broker economic development opportunities for their regions. There are 47 RDA Committees which focus on the economic development and jobs growth of their designated region. In addition, there are five capital city RDA Committees which are located in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide.

ARTD Consultants have been engaged by the Department to survey RDA stakeholders about their experiences with the program.

If you are having any difficulties accessing the survey, please reply to this email. If you have any concerns about the legitimacy of the survey please contact the RDA program team, update@infrastructure.gov.au.

RDA Riverina shares the stories of Skilled Migrants in the Riverina

Regional Development Australia Riverina is pleased to announce the publication of a booklet of Skilled Migration Success Stories.

The booklet showcases the stories of six skilled migrants who relocated to the Riverina area as a result of the Skilled Migration nomination program administered by RDA Riverina.

Rachel Whiting, CEO, and Director of Regional Development, said:

“At RDA Riverina we recognise the importance of skilled migration in addressing business needs and filling skills gaps in our region. We have a long history of building relationships and assisting connections between skilled migrants and local industry.”

As a gazetted Regional Certifying Body (RCB), appointed by the Minister for Immigration, RDA Riverina invites skilled migrants to enjoy the lifestyle of regional Australia by applying for sponsorship to live and work in the Riverina region, filling roles affected by current skills shortages.

“Here, we showcase some of the success stories in the Riverina. Please enjoy their stories and join us in welcoming them, and future migrants to the Riverina. We also hope that these stories will help to start conversations about how we can make our communities more welcoming and embracing of new residents.” Rachel said.

Regional Development Australia Committees (RDAs) have played and continue to play an important role in delivering sustainable infrastructure and services to their region. These Committees deliver important work in consulting with communities, promoting and participating in regional initiatives, and providing information and advice on their region to all levels of Government.