EOIs open for 2022 Inland Growth Summit

The Inland Growth Summit is back for 2022 & RDA Orana are looking for speakers!

Expressions of Interest are now open to speakers for their 2022 Summit on February 2 & 3, 2022. The theme for 2022 is 'Working Together' with five main topics including:

1. Rebound & Resilience

2. Workforce of the Future

3. Infrastructure for Development

4. Industry & Innovation

5. Collaboration for Success

Do you have an interest in the development and recognition of Inland Australia just like us? Maybe your organisation is creating change and movement for the benefit of our inland regions or researching the brightest solutions to some of our critical issues? If the answer is yes, then RDA Orana would love to hear from you!

The Inland Growth Summit, hosted by Regional Development Australia (RDA) Orana has been running since our inaugural event in 2019. They believe the economic contribution from our inland regions is something to be celebrated, while also acknowledging some of the barriers to further progression that we face and can overcome together.

Rebound & Resilience

This session will be centering around the economic contribution of Inland Australia in the face of the COVID pandemic and its integral role in the rebound for the benefit of all Australians. It will also include rebound and resilience through natural disasters, fire, flood and drought, livability, and planning for the future.

Workforce of the Future

Inland Australia is experiencing critical labour shortages and is in most cases the number one barrier to business expansion and growth across industry. How do we work together to plan and secure long-term solutions for population growth and the concept of growing our own?

Infrastructure for Development

In this session we will ask the question, how do we invest in infrastructure for impact? What security and investment are required to build Inland Australia, our industries and communities require for a prosperous future and capitalise on opportunities?

Industry & Innovation

Inland Australia is the place of opportunity! In this session, we want to look at how we can continue to develop a resilient, diverse, and strong industrial base. Successful case studies on innovation within industry and harnessing opportunities will be spotlighted, so we can celebrate those who are leading the way.

Collaboration for Success

How do we work together to create a strong and united voice for Inland Australia? What does true collaboration mean in real life between government policy, infrastructure plans, and the great divide between our coastal counterparts? How can we truly collaborate to highlight and differentiate Inland Australia as the powerhouse it is? These are the questions we are looking to explore in this session of the event.

EnergyConnect Information Sessions

Transgrid is holding a series of information sessions on the EnergyConnect transmission line proposed for the region. Drop in anytime to ask questions and learn more about the project.

The upcoming sessions will be held in Jerilderie, Urana, Wagga and Lockhart in November.

Jerilderie

Monday 8 November 2021, 2pm – 5pm

Outside the IGA, 75 Jerilderie Street, Jerilderie

Wagga Wagga

Tuesday 9 November 2021, Midday – 2.30pm

Lake Albert Hall, Apex Park, Lake Street, Lake Albert

Urana

Wednesday 17 November 2021, 2pm – 5pm

Urana Soldiers Memorial Hall, Anna Street, Urana

Lockhart

Thursday 18 November 2021, 9am – midday

Lockhart Memorial Hall, 71 Green Street, Lockhart

Inland Rail: Albury to Illabo Project Update

The Albury to Illabo project is about 185km of existing rail corridor from the VIC/NSW border to Illabo in regional NSW.

The rail line in this section is already at the standard required to meet future operational demands, but we need to make enhancements or modifications to structures such as footbridges and road bridges, signal structures, aerial cables and level crossings to create the height and width (horizontal and vertical clearances) required for double-stacked freight trains. In addition, there will be locations where existing tracks will be: ™ moved sideways (track slews) to provide clearances between tracks and lowered to provide clearance under some road bridges.

Find out more about where the project is up to and what’s coming next.

Find out more about Inland Rail

New hardship panel to provide more businesses with COVID-19 financial support

A new Hardship Review Panel has been established to consider financial support for businesses experiencing financial hardship that do not qualify for COVID-19 business support measures.

The panel will assess on a case-by-case basis businesses which did not meet the eligibility requirements for the 2021 COVID-19 Business Grant, Micro-business Grant and JobSaver payments.

Minister for Finance and Small Business Damien Tudehope said the Review Panel would help those businesses experiencing genuine financial hardship that were previously ineligible for support payments and grants.

“COVID-19 has affected so many businesses in NSW and even though we have a number of support measures in place, there are still some businesses under severe financial strain that aren’t eligible for assistance for a number of reasons. We want to plug that gap as much as we can,” Mr Tudehope said.

The Review Panel will include representatives from Revenue NSW, NSW Treasury and Service NSW and will make recommendations on businesses’ eligibility for relevant support payments and grants. 

It will consider a broad range of factors in determining whether a business has experienced financial hardship, with the Chief Commissioner of Revenue NSW to be ultimately responsible and make the final determination for applications.

“My message to small businesses is this – no matter what corner of the state you're in, we will be there with you all the way as we navigate this global health pandemic,” Mr Tudehope said.

Factors that the hardship panel will consider include, for example, whether the business is an employer, in a highly impacted industry, in an LGA of concern or has unavoidable costs for which no other support is available.

Businesses will be back paid to the fortnight where they can demonstrate the required decline in turnover with the Panel. Hardship applications for JobSaver are now open with hardship COVID business grants and Microbusiness grants to open later this month. More information about hardship applications are available.

New pulse check to measure your workplace’s mental health

The NSW Government has launched a new Workplace Pulse Check tool to help businesses improve their mental health support and access relevant training and materials from SafeWork NSW.

Minister for Better Regulation, Kevin Anderson said by undertaking the pulse check as part of October’s Mental Health Month, business owners and managers can implement the right proactive measures to support their staff’s mental health while at work.

“Our research consistently tells us that mentally healthy workplaces have more productive staff who feel more positive about work, with less absenteeism and better retention rates,” Mr Anderson said.

“By completing a pulse check, you will be able to establish how your business is doing in terms of its approach to mental health, as well as receive advice on how to provide a supportive culture for your employees.”

To help businesses become mentally healthy, SafeWork is offering free, one-on-one practical coaching for small and medium sized businesses, as well as mental health training workshops tailored for employers, managers and employees.

Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said business leaders can play a substantial role in supporting their employees mental health at work.

“There are so many things business leaders can do to ensure their workplace is mentally healthy – from regular check-ins and discussions around mental health, to proactively identifying and addressing risks,” Mrs Taylor said.

“Mental Health Month is a great time to do a pulse check and start making your workplace a a happier and healthier one for everyone.”

For more information access the Mentally Healthy Workplaces ‘Workplace Pulse Check’ on the NSW Government website.

Regional Housing Report reveals causes behind Riverina housing crisis

An independent report reflecting the community’s experiences of housing and the planning system in regional NSW has been released by the NSW Government.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the Regional Housing Taskforce report details feedback from consultation with more than 500 people across regional NSW.

“The Regional Housing Taskforce’s report gives us a clear picture of the unqiue factors affecting housing in each regional community, and I want to thank every person who took part for their contributions,” Mr Stokes said.

“The report confirms COVID-19 has accelerated an existing trend of people moving from the city to the bush, and this has had an acute impact on regional housing markets.

“The findings tell us what regional communities need to better support their housing needs and I look forward to receiving the taskforce’s detailed recommendations in October.”

Chair of the Regional Housing Taskforce Garry Fielding said the taskforce would now prepare recommendations for the NSW Government to consider in October.

“The communty’s feedback will be used to develop recommendations outlining how the planning system can address housing needs and stimulate supply,” Mr Fielding said.

“I want to thank each person who gave us their time and ideas to help us prepare such a comprehensive report that identifies housing trends, what we’ve heard, detailed findings and the next steps.”

The key issues raised in the findings report include:

• Greater prioritisation on the coordination and delivery of infrastructure to support new homes;

• A need for collaboration between all levels of Government, the housing development industry and the community to develop the right type of housing where people need it;

• Calls to speed up planning processes and reduce duplication, particularly where opportunities to provide housing are time-critical; and

• Demand for more affordable and diverse housing in line with changing demographics, jobs growth, natural disasters, and migration trends.

A Roof Over Her Head: Women, Homelessness and Affordable Housing in the Riverina

The A Roof Over Her Head: Women, Homelessness and Affordable Housing in the Riverina the online event hosted by the Country Women’s Association (CWA) Riverina Group was held on Wednesday 22 September.  

More than 80 people joined us via Zoom to listen to online to guest speakers Lynne Graham (Carevan Wagga Wagga Inc.), Wendy Middleton (Argyle Housing), Belinda McMahon (Sisters Housing Enterprises Inc.) and Dr Joe McGirr MP, Member for Wagga Wagga. 

Watch the Recording

Share the Link

A recording of the online is available via the following link: https://youtu.be/LqU_pBHGgew. We encourage you to use this link to listen or listen again if you joined the conversation on Wednesday night. Most importantly, this link is available for you to share with your fellow CWA members, friends and colleagues and continue to raise awareness of the important issue of homelessness and the need for social and affordable housing in rural and regional NSW, and the solutions being provided by Carevan, Argyle Housing and Sisters Housing Enterprises. 

Q&As 

The answers to the questions raised by participants during the online event have been captured and answered by our guest speakers. Click below to download the Q&A document.

Make a Donation 

Donations can be made direct to Carevan or Sisters Housing Enterprises by contacting the organisations.

• Carevan
  Email: carevanwagga@gmail.com
  

• Sisters Housing Enterprises Inc.

  Phone: 02 6291 6793

  Email: info@sistershousing.org.au

Please note: Carevan is the current CWA Riverina Group Project. A number of  Branches have already made a donation to Carevan. However, Branches which have not yet made a donation may wish to do so by contacting Lynne Grahame at Carevan using the above email address.

Find Out More 

Visit the organisation’s websites for more information about what they do: 

Carevan Wagga Wagga Inc.

Sisters Housing Enterprises Inc.

Argyle Housing

Thank you for your support.

Feedback

Printed in the Daily Advertiser on the 30th of September 2021

Printed in the Daily Advertiser on the 28th of September 2021

RDA Riverina supported this event as part of our capacity building to local community organisations

NSW's first Trade Statement maps way for global success

The NSW Government has released the first ever NSW Trade Statement, a bold plan to transform the State’s exports and trading performance on the world stage, create jobs and support economic recovery.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW, Industry and Trade, John Barilaro said the NSW Trade Statement puts trade at the top of the agenda giving a clear direction on future support for NSW business, creating more and better jobs for NSW.

“Today marks a significant step forward for our State, with the NSW Trade Statement outlining a vision that will ensure economic growth and prosperity into the future,” Mr Barilaro said.

“Despite the challenges of the past few years and COVID-19 changing global trade patterns, the demand for NSW products and services continues to grow.

“Exports make up 15% of the NSW economy, worth $96 billion, and we are setting ourselves an ambitious target to double that to $200 billion by 2031.

“As we move forward with our roadmap to freedom, there has never been a more important time to advance our industries and give NSW businesses the support and connections they need to succeed beyond our borders, boost jobs and establish our State as the nation’s premier exporting hub.”

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the NSW economy was the nation’s engine room, with exports today supporting one in five jobs in Australia.

“The NSW Trade Statement responds to challenges identified for our State and also details how we’ll double exports in the next ten years, with the first milestone anticipated to be reaching $130 billion in exports by 2024,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Work is already well underway in delivering the actions set out in the NSW Trade Statement, including the appointment of six global Commissioners to facilitate new export growth opportunities and open doors for NSW businesses overseas.

“We’re also increasing our NSW overseas trade presence from 21 to 55 specialists in more than 21 high potential locations, to give businesses access to the local connections and networks for success.”

Co-chair of the Trade and Industry Advisory Committee (TIAC) Margaret Jack AM said the NSW Trade Statement will help boost NSW’s economy following the impacts of COVID-19.

“Our world is experiencing rapid economic, social and geopolitical changes and to thrive in a COVID-19 resilient world, we must understand and adapt to the key challenges and opportunities that exporting has to offer,” Ms Jack said.

The NSW Trade Statement outlines strategies to expand NSW exports including:

1. increasing the number of exporting businesses from NSW, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs);

2. exporting a more diverse range of goods, services and technologies, reflecting the true breadth and depth of NSW's world leading capabilities;

3. not only growing exports in established markets, but also increasing the number of overseas markets that we export to, and

4. building new pathways like ecommerce for how we export to reach a global customer base of billions of consumers.

Mr Barilaro said the NSW Trade Statement gives clear direction on how government will assist exporters to harness new global market opportunities.

“This is an ambitious challenge, but NSW has never settled for ordinary,” Mr Barilaro said.

“From our north to our south, east to west, I want everyone to maximise their potential and this NSW Trade Statement is our guide to get there.”

2021 Australian Infrastructure Plan

The 2021 Australian Infrastructure Plan is a practical and actionable roadmap for infrastructure reform.

It is intended to deliver infrastructure for a stronger Australia, and support the national recovery from the still-unfolding COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the bushfires, drought, floods and cyber-attacks that have tested the nation's resilience in recent years.

Infrastructure Australia’s vision for 2036 is to have infrastructure that improves the sustainability of the country’s economic, social, environmental and governance settings, builds quality of life for all Australians, and is resilient to shocks and emerging stresses.

Key opportunities include:

• Supporting growth outside our largest cities, in regional centres and northern Australia

• Investing in transformative technology to deliver affordable and sustainable infrastructure services

• Promoting changes to the behaviour around infrastructure use, empowering Australians to make sustainable choices

• Greater transparency and coordination of the project pipeline and reforms to improve industry productivity

• More collaborative models of infrastructure delivery to support productivity and innovation.

Productivity Commission to investigate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Visual Arts and Crafts

The Morrison Government has requested the Productivity Commission undertake a study into the nature and structure of the markets for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander visual arts and crafts, and policies to address deficiencies in these markets.

Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said the study will provide valuable information as we build on our current investment to strengthen and safeguard this important creative industry.

“Australian Indigenous visual art is internationally acclaimed for its quality, innovation and cultural richness. Art is an important way for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to tell stories, share and strengthen cultures, and drive economic opportunities,” Minister Fletcher said.

“That is why we’ve asked the Productivity Commission to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the value and structure of the current markets for First Nations visual art and crafts, which will propose possible policy and regulatory responses that will seek to support a professional, viable and ethical sector.”

Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Ken Wyatt AM MP, said Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art is a vital part of Australia’s identity, but is undermined by inauthentic material.

“We know that a significant and increasing proportion of products in the ‘style’ of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and crafts that are sold in Australia are imitations, which mislead consumers and provide no economic benefit to their communities,” Minister Wyatt said.

“These imitation products also cause offence and do not have any connection to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and cultures, which is why this inquiry will enable us to maintain an equitable and authentic arts and crafts market.”

The Productivity Commission is asked to:

• Examine the nature and structure of the different parts of the domestic and international markets including authentic and inauthentic products.
• Identify deficiencies and barriers in the markets and how they affect artists and other stakeholders.
• Assess costs, benefits, governance arrangements, risks, practicalities and implementation challenges of any policy responses.

The Productivity Commission is expected to consult broadly, particularly with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities and organisations, and will hand down its final report by the end of 2022.

The study is part of the Government’s tabled response to the House of Representatives Report on the impact of inauthentic art and craft in the style of First Nations peoples.

For further information, including the terms of reference, please visit the Productivity Commission’s website: https://www.pc.gov.au/ 

The Commission has released an issues paper that will set out some of the issues and questions that people raise with us in the early stage of the study.

This issues paper is a guide for people in preparing a submission or comment to the study.

Participants should provide evidence to support the views in their submission or comment, including data and specific examples where possible.

The issues paper was released on 21 September 2021.

Initial submissions are due by Monday 13 December 2021.

ARENA opens $50 million fund for regional microgrid projects

A new $50 million fund will support the deployment of microgrids and renewable energy across regional Australia.

The funding will help communities to take control of their energy needs while also improving resilience for bushfire-affected communities, boosting reliability in weak parts of the electricity grid and reducing the need for polluting diesel generation.

First announced in the 2020-21 Federal Budget, the Regional Australia Microgrid Pilots Program (RAMPP) will complement an existing fund which supports regional and remote communities to scope the feasibility of constructing microgrids.

ARENA CEO Darren Miller said the program will fund pilot projects that demonstrate the potential for microgrids to benefit regional and remote communities.

“Whether it’s maintaining electricity supply during and after emergencies such as bushfires and floods, or improving the reliability and security of power supply in remote communities, this program will showcase the diverse benefits microgrids offer regional Australia,” Mr Miller said.

What are microgrids?

Microgrids are small, localised networks that share energy from interconnected small-scale technologies like solar and batteries with small communities.

As well as improving energy independence for isolated populations, they offer a way to accelerate the shift to locally-deployed renewable energy.

While microgrids are not new, the falling cost of solar, batteries and energy management technology is making them a viable option for more regions that struggle with expensive, polluting and unreliable electricity supplies.

King Island in Bass Strait has shown what is possible, using a combination of solar, wind, wave power and battery storage to displace more than two-thirds of the diesel generation the community has relied on for generations.

This approach allows communities to benefit from affordable, dependable electricity supplies, without the cost of building and maintaining transmission to centralised networks like the National Electricity Market.

The remote town of Denham in Western Australia’s Shark Bay World Heritage area is undergoing a different type of transformation, replacing its diesel generators with a microgrid fuelled by green hydrogen.

While microgrids are often connected to larger grids that can supply energy in the event of generation shortfalls, the new funding will also be extended to ‘stand alone’ systems that are designed to operate independently.

Supporting real-world projects

The new program will provide grants to projects that have already been found to be viable through feasibility studies, with most successful applicants expected to receive between $1 million and $5 million.

Communities around the country have undertaken preliminary works through the Regional and Remote Communities Reliability Fund, including Yackandandah in Victoria’s north-east.

The picturesque town has become a microgrid pioneer, installing three systems to distribute energy amongst the local population of nearly 2000 people.

Recently, rooftop solar uptake passed 60 per cent of households in the Yackandandah Valley, with the next phase of work to focus on building energy storage to capture excess daytime generation to meet the evening peak.

Totally Renewable Yackandandah Inc is now assessing the financial viability of different technologies, including 1-2 MW of battery storage and 5-6 MW of pumped hydro.

Their study will focus on providing the capability to island the town’s power supplies to achieve the most safety and energy resilience.

Apply now

Applications for funding through the Regional Australia Microgrid Pilots Program are now open.

ARENA will hold two identical information sessions on the Program. Attendees will be able to ask questions during these sessions. To register for one of these sessions please use the links below.

Defence Innovation Review: Innovation Ecosystem Survey

Image description: An Australian flag patch on the uniformed arm of a soldier

The Minister for Defence Industry, Melissa Price MP, recently announced a comprehensive review of Defence innovation, science and technology to help ensure the Australian Defence Force has access to the most cutting-edge capability in the world.

Minister Price has appointed Mr David Peever to lead the independent review, and he is inviting defence stakeholders to complete a survey which will provide valuable insights for the review, and enable a better understanding of the interactions between Defence and the broader innovation ecosystem.

The survey will take approximately 20 minutes to complete, and the deadline for completion is 5pm on Friday the 8th October, 2021.  
 
This is an important review which will examine the Defence innovation ecosystem in its entirety to establish how it can more effectively deliver home-grown, innovative capabilities for the men and women of the Australian Defence Force.  It will also seek to:

• Strengthen and improve the links between academia and industry to solve Defence’s unique capability challenges;

• Simplify contracts to support more rapid acquisitions and transitions from concept to capability; and

• Establish how Defence-funded research and innovation can be more effectively commercialised to give Defence a unique capability edge.
  

Free WHS safety advice for farming businesses

Image description: Modern combine harvester working on a wheat crop

The NSW Government and NSW Farmers have launched a workplace safety program providing education and advice to the agriculture industry to help reduce farm-related death, injury and disease.

Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation Kevin Anderson said the NSW Government has invested $2 million over four years for the Farm Safety Advisory Program to support farming businesses in developing an effective work health and safety culture and keeping workers safe.

“This $2 million investment from the NSW Government is part of our mission to create a safer and stronger regional NSW. All NSW small to medium farming operations with fewer than 50 workers are eligible to participate in this free program,” Mr Anderson said.

“The agriculture sector is the backbone of our regional economies and is a significant employer in regional communities. It is imperative as a government we do everything we can to support farm workers and keep them safe.

“The program will improve farm safety practices by providing education directly to farming businesses. This allows the NSW Government to continue to work alongside the agriculture industry on a wide range of farm-related safety issues.”

NSW Farmers President James Jackson said working life on the farm includes a diverse range of safety risk factors.

“Farming is a rewarding but potentially dangerous occupation; the more we talk and learn how to manage the risks and dangers, the better,” Mr Jackson said.

“The Farm Safety Advisory Program is a winner for me and other farmers in achieving this. The program has dedicated advisors who can provide support, advice and resources to improve WHS on farms.

“A session with an advisor can be delivered in various settings, including your own farm with discussions tailored specifically to your farm business operations.”

Delivery of the program will start on Tuesday 28 September with a Harvest Ready webinar from 6-7pm and the launch of the phone call back and email service.

The program’s COVID safe methods will enable one-on-one and group participation to occur through both face-to-face and online interactions as appropriate.

For more information and to register your interest, call NSW Farmers on 1300 764 000 or email nswfarmsafety@nswfarmers.org.au.

More cash to fix local roads in the bush

Hundreds of additional roads across regional NSW will receive funding for vital works to improve journeys for regional communities, farmers and freight.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro and Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole announced $153 million for 94 regional councils to fix, maintain and seal priority roads in the bush through Round 3 of the NSW Government’s Fixing Local Roads program.

“Our Government is investing in the local infrastructure our regional communities rely on, with today’s announcement giving councils across rural and regional NSW a helping hand to deliver the projects that really matter,” Mr Barilaro said.

“Under this program, hundreds of millions of dollars are flowing to regional councils, delivering safer journeys for families and improving the freight network in the bush.

“This funding will deliver more than 130 additional road projects across regional NSW, easing the burden on local councils and creating hundreds of jobs across rural and regional NSW at a time when they’re needed most.”

Mr Toole said Fixing Local Roads had already delivered more than $394 million for 361 projects across 91 regional Local Government Areas from Armidale to Albury in the first two rounds.

“Communities across the state are already reaping the benefits of this program with 97 projects now open to traffic – and today’s announcement will see councils deliver a further 138 projects over the next two years,” Mr Toole said.

“These projects won’t just ensure that locals see the benefits of this investment every time they get behind the wheel, they’re also supporting an additional 1,374 jobs throughout construction.

“Small projects like these not only make a big difference to the roads locals use every day, but they’ll also support the domestic tourist market when our regions open up again.”

Fixing Local Roads is a $500 million NSW Government program, which was boosted by the Commonwealth Government over the first two rounds with an additional injection of $191 million.
 

Read more about the Fixing Local Roads program. 

Creating a new digital tool to help manage 'AI' WHS risks

Image Description: 3D rendering ai robot explosion with pixelated effect

The NSW Government’s Centre for Work Health and Safety (the Centre) is developing a digital Artificial Intelligence (AI) Risk Management Tool to help businesses manage workplace health and safety risks when introducing and using the technology.

Centre Director, Skye Buatava, said around 70 per cent of Australian companies are expected to adopt at least one type of AI technology by 2030.

“While AI may provide efficient solutions to business operations, there are new potential work health and safety risks to workers,” Ms Buatava said.

“We are conducting further research to establish evidence-based actions businesses can take to help address identified risks, while developing a user-friendly AI WHS Risk Management Tool.

“The Centre has instigated two studies identifying over 50 risks to inform the tool’s development, in partnership with the University of Adelaide we have exploring the ethical use of AI at work, while our work with Charles Sturt University is examining how businesses can trust new processes.

“WHS risks were found to be present throughout the planning, implementation and continued use of AI technology, and it is crucial that we understand these risks now and provide guidance to businesses before AI becomes mainstream. 

“So far we have consulted with more than 80 experts from business, government and academia – the feedback and planning we are undertaking now will go a long way to ensuring workplace safety as the technology becomes available,” Ms Buatava said.

NSW Government retrains timber mill workers

Image description: Retraining word written on a notepad, surrounded by small figurines.

Around 50 timber mill workers in Wagga Wagga who were set to lose their jobs with the relocation of the Big River timber mill have received free training and a personal skills matching service, thanks to the NSW Government’s JobTrainer program.

The workers, some of whom have been employed at the mill for more than 30 years, are ready to re-enter the Wagga Wagga workforce, following Big River’s consolidation of its operations in northern NSW.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro said Big River Industries had received $10 million as part of the NSW Government’s Bushfire Industry Recovery Package in the aftermath of the 2019/20 bushfires.

“Following the devastating 2019/20 bushfires, these funds helped Big River relocate and expand its existing operations in Grafton,” Mr Barilaro said.

“Now, through the NSW Government’s JobTrainer program, we are retraining those who didn’t take part in the company’s move north, to support local industries in need of skilled workers.

“People in our regions have been severely impacted by not only the bushfires, but the pandemic that has followed, and the NSW Government is ensuring no worker is left behind.”

Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee said the work to prepare employees for the mill’s closure will help reduce the economic hit usually linked to a company closing its doors.

“Training Services NSW has worked with Big River to support each worker who did not relocate north with the company to identify ways that they can upskill and retrain to help find other work,” Mr Lee said.

“The bushfires impacted so many of our regional businesses and industries, and I am committed to ensuring workers have the support to upskill for a new job or better job.” 

Maintenance Manager at Big River, Damien Periera, said it was a bittersweet time for workers.

“Ultimately the log supply was in danger and there was not enough to make the mill viable, but Training Services NSW has been invaluable in making sure our staff are matched to other jobs,” Mr Periera said.

“That is a big relief for any business going through a similar situation in these circumstances. It’s great to know there is NSW Government support available to help people land on their feet.”

Find out more at Education NSW

Pilot plan to return international students

Image description: Close up of an Asian young woman holding an Australian flag.

A pilot plan that will see the phased return of fully vaccinated international students to NSW has been given the green light by the Commonwealth Government, with the first flight touching down by the end of this year.

Accommodation provider Scape has been confirmed to house the returning students for a 14-day quarantine in Redfern, at a building retrofitted to accommodate up to 650 students to COVIDSafe standards approved by NSW Health and NSW Police.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional New South Wales, Industry and Trade John Barilaro said the staggered return of students was stage one of a pilot that would slowly expand and evolve, as vaccination rates continue to rise in NSW and internationally.

“The international education sector sustains thousands of jobs across NSW, and I’m proud that NSW is leading the way with the return of international students to our shores,” Mr Barilaro said.

“The safety of the people of NSW is paramount and we are taking no risks. All participating students will be required to be fully vaccinated with a TGA-recognised COVID-19 vaccine, and strict quarantine protocols will be in place.

“Importantly, this plan will not come at the expense of any Australian citizen or resident wishing to return home.”

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the program was vital to the State’s economic recovery, creating jobs and restoring growth.

“International education plays an important role in connecting NSW to the world,” Mr Perrottet said. “As we implement a range of efforts to reboot our economy, rebuilding the sector - which was worth $14.6 billion to NSW in 2019 - is a key part of our efforts.”

Education partners including Australian Catholic University, Macquarie University, The University of Newcastle, The University of Sydney, UNSW, UTS, University of Wollongong and Western Sydney University, plus independent providers the International College of Management Sydney, Kaplan, Navitas, RedHill and Study Group, have signed up to the industry-funded pilot plan.

Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said NSW was the top destination in Australia for international students.

“More than 57,000 students are currently overseas, with many desperate to return, resume their studies, part-time jobs, connect with friends and continue their journey in our world-leading institutions,” Mr Ayres said.

The first phase of the pilot plan is anticipated to bring back 500 international students to NSW on chartered flights, paid for by the students, by the end of the year.

Scape CEO Anouk Darling said the company was proud to be involved in the pilot.

“Our Scape team are proud to partner with the NSW Government and our world class education sector, here in NSW, to welcome our returning international students into our most advanced and COVID-safe student accommodation facility at Scape Redfern,” Ms Darling said.

The announcement was welcomed by the higher education sector with Professor Barney Glover AO, Governor of the NSW Vice-Chancellors’ Committee thanking the NSW Government.

“After over 18 months of planning, we are delighted that both the Australian and NSW Government are supportive of a pilot plan for an incremental reopening of our borders to our international students,” Mr Glover said.

Council of International Students Australia President, Belle Lim, welcomed the detailed planning and collaborative approach.

“We all want international students back on campus, enjoying the unique learning, work and life experience that only studying in Australia can deliver. We support the cautious approach and look forward to growing the number of students returning to NSW over time,” Ms Lim said.

CEO of Independent Higher Education Australia Simon Finn said the private higher education sector welcomes the pilot’s launch and commends the NSW Government’s unwavering focus on community safety, international student welfare and rebuilding the state economy.

“By working with the Independent Higher Education Australia (IHEA) on this pilot from the beginning, the NSW Government has demonstrated its commitment to supporting both the private and public education sector,” Mr Finn said.

Participating education providers will contact students to progress an expression of interest for the pilot plan.

Local sparkies help schools shine

The NSW Government is putting out the call for local tradies to install smart LED lights in NSW public schools, improving the quality of classrooms and cutting power bills.

The $157.8 million LED Lighting Upgrade Program was launched last year as a stimulus response to the COVID-19 pandemic and is targeted at replacing old inefficient lights in NSW public schools with smart LED lights. Now in its third tranche, the program will see more than 800 schools upgraded across the state.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW, Industry and Trade John Barilaro said this is an exciting opportunity for local tradies right across NSW.

“As a former chippy I appreciate the ongoing impacts of this virus on local businesses, and the NSW Government is committed to supporting jobs and providing opportunities for tradies throughout the State,” Mr Barilaro Said.

“Under this program, All LED lights will be manufactured here in NSW and installed by NSW tradies and this commitment by the NSW Government has the added benefit of improving facilities at our schools, ensuring our students get the best possible start in life.”

Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said that improved lighting will have a positive impact on students’ education.

“A high quality classroom and learning environment has a positive impact on students and that is why this government is investing record amounts on improving our classrooms, libraries, halls and administration areas,” Ms Mitchell said.  

“The smart LED lights mimic natural light which can help students’ education by improving their attentiveness and comprehension.

“This  program is a great way for schools to reduce their power and maintenance bills, while also providing work for local tradies.

Local tradies will be able to tender for lighting upgrade opportunities via the Local Trades Scheme, an online platform where small businesses can engage directly with the Department of Education to bid for work at public schools in their local communities.

Already hundreds of tender opportunities have been published via the Local Trades Scheme with more to come in the following weeks.

The LED Lighting Upgrade Program will bring savings on electricity bills and also improve the sustainability of schools and take steps towards the NSW Government’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

The NSW Government is investing $7.9 billion over the next four years, continuing its program to deliver 215 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW. This is the largest investment in public education infrastructure in the history of NSW.

Incentives overhaul a big win for regional teachers

Image Description: Portrait of mid adult Australian woman outside school looking at camera

Teachers and students at schools across regional NSW will benefit from a complete overhaul of how the government attracts and retains teachers in the bush. 

Deputy Premier John Barilaro said the NSW Government commissioned the Review of Rural and Remote Incentives in NSW Public Schools, which focused on improving the benefits for regional teachers by ensuring they are fair and flexible.  

“We are already investing record amounts in school infrastructure and technology in regional parts of the State, so it’s time our incentives program is upgraded to attract top quality teachers to the bush,” Mr Barilaro said.

“At the heart of these investments are our regional kids who deserve the best teachers and best education no matter where they live.”

Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell said she commissioned the review in response to conversations and feedback from teachers working in regional, rural and remote areas.

“The government is accepting all recommendations put forward by the review, and we will immediately begin implementing reforms to attract and retain teachers in regional NSW,” Ms Mitchell said.

“We have the most generous incentive system in Australia, however over time it has grown in complexity. This is the first time we have inspected all aspects of the system to make it fair and flexible, allowing teachers to create a package that works best for them and their circumstances.

"We will create a smarter transfer point system and an easier-to-understand benefits package for teachers, ranging from additional salary, better professional development opportunities, rent assistance and family support.”

The NSW Government has committed $15 million to action initiatives immediately in response to the Incentives Review, including:

• Increasing the value of targeted recruitment bonuses from $10,000 to up to $20,000, making schools located in the hardest-to-staff parts of the State more attractive for prospective employees;

• Giving more employees the opportunity to experience regional NSW by doubling the number of teach.Rural scholarships to 120 per year, and expanding the investment in the Rural Experience Program to fund up to 50 places from 2022;

• Expanding eligibility so temporary teachers can receive incentives like the Rural Teacher Incentive, Retention Bonus, and Experienced Teacher Bonus, enabling a greater number of employees to be attracted to the regions; and,

• Working alongside the Teacher Housing Authority NSW to upgrade, repair and build new accommodation for teachers in areas of high demand.

Principals, teachers, key education stakeholders and experts will be consulted with and help co-design longer-term initiatives, including:

• The revamping and simplification of the transfer point system to reduce inequity, better communication on what is available for teachers in the regions, and allowing employees to work on a bespoke package which suits their individual circumstances;

• The creation of a more holistic approach to regional relocation which focuses on ‘families’ rather than just individuals; and,

• The establishment of a centralised team to oversee regional staffing.

“Regional NSW is an incredibly attractive place to live and work. I want to see more people experience teaching in Regional NSW and I want to remove barriers for anyone wanting a teaching career in the bush,” Ms Mitchell said.

The review recommendations support the initiatives included in the Teacher Supply Strategy due for release later this year.

Download the full report.

467 million reasons to check the unclaimed money register

More than $467 million of unclaimed money is sitting with Revenue NSW ready to make its way into the hands of NSW citizens. 

NSW Minister for Finance and Small Business Damien Tudehope acknowledged many families across the state were struggling financially due to the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 stay-at-home orders. 

“We know many people are doing it tough, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, with most households having to keep a close eye on their budget. This is why I am encouraging people to check their eligibility on the Revenue NSW website to see if you are owed any money, you could have hundreds or thousands of dollars that you didn’t know about,” Mr Tudehope said.

The forgotten money held by Revenue NSW includes share dividends, trust accounts, refunds, commissions, deceased estates and money from a range of other sources.

“The largest single amount held on the unclaimed money register is more than $1 million from a deceased estate in Cabramatta, while there are 10 amounts of more than $500,000 each, waiting to be collected by the rightful owners.”

“There are also more than 255,000 unpresented cheques worth $108 million waiting to make their way to the proper accounts.” 

“Anyone can search for unclaimed money on the Revenue NSW website. It is a free service offered by the NSW Government to get money back into the hands of its owners.”

The unclaimed money register holds money that has not made it to the correct owner for any number of reasons, including a change of address or name, misplaced paperwork or has simply been forgotten. 

Revenue NSW periodically undertakes data matching activities and attempts to contact potential owners of new items received from enterprises.

View the unclaimed money register