NSW government turning up the live music, under statewide vibrancy reforms

Media Release from the NSW Deputy Premier, NSW Minister for Gaming and Racing, NSW Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, and NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces

MEDIA RELEASE | 19 October 2023

The Minns Labor government is removing red tape to bring back live music and encourage local entertainment zones that are as vibrant and diverse as traditional precincts like the Sydney CBD – especially at night. The government is also overhauling regulatory frameworks to prevent single complainants from shutting down venues.

A package of reforms to be introduced to Parliament will put the age of lockouts and over-regulation behind us, with venues that host live music empowered to trade 2 hours longer under streamlined licensing laws. The vibrancy package will strip back the current tangle of red tape to allow just one set of laws for noise disturbance complaints against live music and performance venues, with higher hurdles imposed for complaints to progress and no avenue for a single complainant to close venues.

Currently, there are 7 agencies that accept noise complaints. The government’s proposed changes will streamline the process by making Liquor and Gaming NSW the lead in managing noise complaints against licensed venues. The 'order of occupancy' will be made a central consideration in disturbance complaints to address the situation in which newcomers to a neighbourhood work to shut down or wind back the entertainment offerings and/or operating hours of established venues.

The changes will be delivered through 6 areas of reform:

• Sensible venue sound management

  A single noise complainant will no longer be able to shut down a venue. Liquor and Gaming NSW becomes the lead regulator of formal entertainment sound-related complaints for licensed premises, removing complex and highly subjective noise tests.

• Vibrant, coordinated precincts

  The success of the Enmore Road Special Entertainment Precinct, now rated one of the best going-out districts in the world, will be expanded to other areas via a new framework for councils that makes it easier for them to deliver vibrant, safe going-out destinations supported by adequate and reliable transport and good lighting.

• An activated outdoors

  The reforms will permanently relax the rules for outdoor dining allowing venues to make the most of their outdoor space with a quicker, light-touch application process. Councils will also be supported to ease the way for creatives and community groups to stage pop-up events and festivals, including street closures and global pre-approvals for event sites.

• Empowering the 24-hour economy commissioner to deliver a sustainable, thriving night-time economy.

  NSW is the first jurisdiction in the world to appoint a 24-hour economy commissioner, and the role will now be made a statutory appointment with an expanded remit beyond Greater Sydney, to include Newcastle, Wollongong and the Central Coast to make this a permanent priority for the government.

  The statutory appointment solidifies the night-time economy’s standing within government and allows the commissioner to work across government to ensure these reforms benefit a range of industries across the sector. The commissioner will continue to be responsible for ensuring that as these reforms are implemented, fun doesn’t come at the expense of a safe night out.

• Licensing

  A common-sense approach to risk will be adopted in relation to liquor regulation, removing outdated rules, and beginning work to streamline planning and licensing processes. More efficient consultation will make it easier for venues to open and diversify, and for communities to have their say. Plus, meaningful incentives for venues to feature live music and performances will drive new employment opportunities for creatives and entertainment options for audiences.

• Improving the night-time sector for workers

  The amenity of the city shouldn’t be reduced because of the hours people work. The 24-hour economy commissioner will develop a plan to make our state a better place to work for those who don’t work 9 to 5. Existing legislation will be amended to support the NSW Government’s Vibrancy Reforms, including the Liquor Act 2007, the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997, the Local Government Act 1993, and the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

A new Bill will be introduced for the statutory appointment of the 24-hour economy commissioner. The NSW Government is spending in excess of $58 million in 2023–2024 on supporting this work and will be seeking co-funding from the hospitality and entertainment sector.

First Aboriginal Languages Week celebrated across the state this October

Media Release from the NSW Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty

MEDIA RELEASE | 19 October 2023

Aboriginal communities across the state will be celebrating the nation’s first ever Aboriginal Languages Week thanks to a new NSW Government grants program. 

NSW Aboriginal Languages Week, to raise awareness about Aboriginal languages and increase support for language revitalisation, is being held for the first time in NSW from Sunday 22 October to Sunday 29 October.

The NSW Aboriginal Languages Trust and the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, David Harris will kick off the first Aboriginal Languages Week with a festival on Saturday 21 October at the National Centre for Indigenous Excellence in Redfern. 

$78,620 has been awarded to 16 organisations to promote and celebrate language revitalisation work in their communities. 

Events include:

• a cultural tour in Fingal Head

• language activities at La Perouse public school

• interactive language lessons with Elders in McLean

• workshops in Lambton

• Anaiwan language camp in Armidale

• a day long festival in Mogo.

The theme of the Aboriginal Languages Week 2023 is “Languages Alive, Culture Thrives”.

Events and activities have been supported by a new grants program administered by the Aboriginal Languages Trust. 

Aboriginal Languages Week will be celebrated annually to coincide with the passing of the Aboriginal Languages Actlaunch into law on 24 October 2017. NSW is the only jurisdiction in Australia, with legislation in place to preserve and enhance Aboriginal languages.

Get more information about the Aboriginal Languages Week and a list of events on Aboriginal Languages Trust website.launch

Make your mark - BikeSpot 2023

Joint Media Release from Senator the Hon Carol Brown MP, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport; Dan Kneipp, CEO of Amy Gillett Foundation and Anthony Aisenberg, CrowdSpot Funder and Director

MEDIA RELEASE | 19 October 2023

Australia’s largest ever crowd-sourcing bike safety project – BikeSpot 2023 – was launched today at Parliament House in Canberra. The project is a collaboration between the Amy Gillett Foundation and CrowdSpot, as part of the Australian Government’s Safe Roads for Safe Cycling Program.

BikeSpot is a map that allows every Australian to say where they feel safe or unsafe while riding their bike. By making a mark on the interactive map, everyone can contribute to making cycling safe.

People on bikes can head to bikespot.org to drop a pin and answer a few questions about why they feel safe or unsafe in that location. The feedback could be positive, such as a separated bike lane that feels safe and is enjoyable to ride on. Or the feedback could identify areas that need improvement, such as a narrow-painted bike lane, high traffic speed, or missing connections in bike routes.

The information collected by BikeSpot will be made freely and publicly available to local governments, researchers and anyone else involved in road design.

Monash University has found more than three-quarters of people are interested in riding a bike, but only when separated from cars, such as on off-road paths or protected bike lanes. Previous research has also shown that the key barrier to getting more people on bikes is how unsafe they feel when riding, particularly around cars.

Active transport is increasingly a priority for governments, locally and globally. Active transport reduces traffic congestion, and improves the social, economic and environmental health of communities.

Our streets need to be shared and accessed by all – the more we know, the safer our journey. Let’s share our knowledge to build happier, healthier communities.

The nationwide project is now open and will run through to January 2024. Let’s make cycling safe. Make your mark at bikespot.org.

ACCC to monitor Australia's air passenger services

Media Release from the Hon Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government

MEDIA RELEASE | 18 October 2023

The Albanese Government will direct the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to monitor domestic air passenger services to help ensure Australians see the benefits of a competitive airline sector.

This will complement the ACCC’s monitoring role in relation to certain airports, as well as their continual engagement with the aviation sector in the delivery of their core consumer protection function.

We want a safe, sustainable and efficient aviation sector that provides a high standard of service, good prices and better consumer protections for Australians.

A competitive airline industry helps to put downward pressure on prices and deliver more choice for Australians facing cost-of-living pressures.

ACCC market scrutiny will help ensure airlines compete on their merits, bring to light any inappropriate market conduct should it occur, and provide continued transparency at a time when new and expanding airlines are still trying to establish themselves.

The direction will be issued under section 95ZE of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 and will require the ACCC to monitor prices, costs and profits in the domestic air passenger sector.

Key areas will include the level of capacity the airlines are putting on each route as well as industry performance, including on cancellations and delays.

Providing better accessibility for people with a disability will also be a priority for the sector.

The former government scheduled the end of monitoring for June 2023, but we’ve found a better way to restart it.

The 12 reports under the previous government found declining service standards and higher prices but were not acted on.

In contrast, the Albanese Government will use ACCC monitoring to help inform the Aviation White Paper which is setting the policy direction for the sector out to 2050.

We will ensure healthy competition plays a key role in shaping the future of the sector.

The Treasury Competition Taskforce is working with the Aviation White Paper team on competition reforms needed to build a more robust and resilient airline industry.

The White Paper will also consider strengthening consumer protections, and improvements to complaint handling processes.

The direction will apply for three years and commence before the end of the year with reports released quarterly.

 The Albanese Government will continue to act in Australia’s best interests by supporting our airlines to be competitive, cost-effective and commercially viable into the future.

A stronger, more diverse and independent community sector

image source: A stronger, more diverse and independent community sector | engage.dss.gov.au

As part of the Australian Government’s election commitment for a stronger, more diverse and independent community sector, the Department of Social Services is exploring opportunities to better support Australian communities through the design and administration of grants to the sector, including more meaningful working partnerships and options for greater innovation.

This issues paper aims to reflect what the department has already heard from community sector organisations about current challenges and ideas for how the Australian Government could support a stronger, more diverse and independent community sector.

Using this issues paper as a guide, the department would like your feedback to help inform a package of recommendations for government consideration, on innovative approaches to grant funding that will support both short and longer-term reform to the operation of grants.

Submissions responding to the issues paper close on Tuesday 7 November 2023.

Real-world data to shine a light on vehicle fuel use and emissions

Media Release from the Hon Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government

MEDIA RELEASE | 18 October 2023

The Australian Government’s $14 million Real-World Testing of Vehicle Efficiency program is shining a light on the running costs and emissions of popular vehicle models.

The program provides consumers with clearer information on how much fuel their vehicle is likely to use on the road.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King, Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen as well as Managing Director of the Australian Automobile Association (AAA), Michael Bradley, were in Canberra today to discuss the program ahead of the release of data for the first vehicle models tested.

Run by the AAA, the program will test between 150 and 200 vehicle models in total and aims to cover the majority of vehicles sold in Australia by market share.

It will complement the laboratory test data currently available through the Green Vehicle Guide and help shape future improvements to vehicle regulations.

While laboratory testing allows consumers to compare the relative efficiency and emissions of different vehicles on a common basis, it doesn’t always accurately indicate how they’ll perform under on-road conditions.

This is because fuel consumption and emissions can also be affected by traffic, weather and how the vehicle is being used and maintained.

By testing these vehicles in a real-world setting, this program will ensure consumers have access to clearer information on how much fuel a vehicle is likely to use on the road.

It will also give consumers a better understanding of how much a vehicle will cost to run before they purchase it, and the amount of emissions it will produce.

For more information on the program, visit www.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure-transport-vehicles/vehicles/vehicle-safety-environment.

Grant outcomes for election commitments to improve mobile coverage

Media Release from the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, Minister for Communications

MEDIA RELEASE | 19 October 2023

The Albanese Government has today announced successful grant outcomes to fulfil election commitments to improve mobile coverage and quality in identified locations across regional Australia.

A total of $37.2 million in Commonwealth funding has been awarded under the Improving Mobile Coverage Round (IMCR). The IMCR attracted $28.8 million in industry co-investment.

The grants will build 41 new base stations to improve mobile coverage at 42 target locations identified as having unreliable service by the now-Government when in Opposition.
 
Grant applications were independently assessed by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts (the Department) against the Program’s Grant Opportunity Guidelines.
 
The Minister has accepted all value for money recommendations made by the Department.
 
The IMCR did not result in solutions for 12 target locations, however four of these locations are expected to receive coverage improvements through projects that are already approved and funded across the Regional Connectivity and Peri-Urban Mobile Programs, or through commercial solutions.
 
Of the 12 target locations not addressed by the IMCR:

• Five locations did not receive applications;

• Four locations received applications which the Department assessed as being too expensive and not delivering value for money; and

• Three locations received applications that did not satisfy the technical coverage or solution requirements of the guidelines.

Within the remaining $2.8 million in grant funding for the IMCR, options are being considered to further test industry solutions for two of the three locations that did not meet technical coverage requirements, but where Departmental advice indicates there is a reasonable prospect that a value for money solution may exist.
 
This dedicated round was funded in the October 2022 Federal Budget and delivers on the Government’s election commitments to co-invest with Mobile Network Operators and Infrastructure Providers to deploy new mobile infrastructure at target locations across Australia.
 
In addition to this dedicated election commitment round, the Albanese Government is working to improve regional coverage through its $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia.
 
The Plan commits $400 million to expand mobile coverage and improve communications resilience, including investment to fund future rounds of the Mobile Black Spot Program, and $200 million to fund place-based communications solutions through additional rounds of the Regional Connectivity Program.
 
Under the Plan, the Government is also conducting an independent audit of mobile coverage to better identify mobile coverage black spots to guide future investment. A request for tender for the audit was recently opened.
 
A full list of funded locations under the IMCR is available at www.infrastructure.gov.au/mbsp. The rollout schedule will be published on the carriers’ websites once the contracts have been

New Centre makes it easier for eligible families to connect to free NBN

Media Release from Senator the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, Minister for Communications

MEDIA RELEASE | 18 October 2023

The Albanese Government is making it easier for eligible families to access 12 months free broadband over the NBN, with the launch of a new National Referral Centre to support the ongoing rollout of the School Student Broadband Initiative (SSBI).
 
The SSBI – launched in January this year – fulfils an election commitment to help to narrow the digital divide for families who otherwise have no access to broadband at home. The initiative aims to connect up to 30,000 families nationwide.
 
The new National Referral Centre – led by Anglicare Victoria – now allows families to nominate themselves for the program directly, making it easier than ever for households in need to get connected.
 
To date, NBN Co has been partnering with more than 50 community organisations that work with vulnerable cohorts to identify eligible families.
 
More than 4,000 households around Australia have been connected through the initiative. An additional 18,700 connection vouchers have been issued to eligible families. Eligible families are issued a voucher they can redeem with a participating internet provider to redeem their free connection.
 
To be eligible, a family must:

• Have a child living at home and enrolled in an Australian school.

• Be referred by a nominating organisation or self-nominate through the National Referral Centre

• Have no active broadband service over the NBN network.

• Live in a premise where they can access a standard NBN service.

Families can contact the National Referral Centre on 1800 954 610 (Mon-Fri, 10am-6pm AEDT), by visiting www.anglicarevic.org.au/student-internet or emailing studentinternet@anglicarevic.org.au.
 
For more information on SSBI, visit www.infrastructure.gov.au/SSBI

ACCC accepts revised NBN Co Special Access Undertaking variation

Joint Media Release from the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, Minister for Communications and Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher, Minister for Finance, Minister for Women, Minister for the Public Service

MEDIA RELEASE | 17 October 2023

The decision by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to accept NBN Co’s Special Access Undertaking (SAU) is a positive outcome for households, NBN Co and industry.
 
The Government hopes this significant development enables NBN Co and retail providers to look forward with renewed determination to improve connectivity for Australians.
 
The SAU provides the foundation for regulating pricing on the National Broadband Network (NBN). The now accepted SAU ensures broadband access remains affordable, and that NBN Co remains a commercially viable business that can meet Australia’s evolving connectivity needs now and into the future.
 
The SAU will support better outcomes for consumers and industry. It will provide greater certainty, phase out CVC pricing, create baseline service standards and processes to enable future service quality improvements, and drive efficiency by establishing robust processes to assess NBN Co’s expenditure.
 
The revised service and pricing arrangements in the SAU variation are expected to be implemented through a new Wholesale Broadband Agreement between NBN Co and retail service providers from 1 December 2023.
 
The ACCC has made this decision as the independent regulator, having regard to the long-term interests of end-users.
 
The Albanese Government thanks the ACCC, NBN Co and the industry for their extensive engagement, patience, and willingness to create space for problem-solving.
 
This was the stated desire of Shareholder Ministers when they wrote to NBN Co and the ACCC to support the withdrawal of the SAU variation proposal lodged in March 2022.
 
That proposal, lodged under the former Coalition Government, allowed price increases of inflation plus three per cent a year on some products, with no prospect of acceptance by the ACCC.
 
This situation required a change of government to reset the regulatory process, along with a genuine focus on the long-term interests of Australians consumers.
 
The Albanese Government is delivering a better NBN for all Australians, and today’s decision enables NBN Co to continue driving that mission.
 
For more information on the accepted SAU, visit: www.accc.gov.au/by-industry/telecommunications-and-internet/national-broadband-network-nbn-access-regulation/nbn-co-sau-variation-august-2023/final-decision

Landmark National Skills Agreement between Federal and NSW state governments

Media Release from the NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education

MEDIA RELEASE | 17 October 2023

The Federal and NSW state governments have signed a landmark agreement that will deliver billions of dollars to build the skills and prosperity of NSW.

The landmark 5-year National Skills Agreement (NSA) – which will take effect from January next year – was developed under principles agreed by National Cabinet and will embed national cooperation and strategic investment in the NSW vocational education and training sector.

NSW is set to benefit from over $3.81 billion of investment from the Albanese Government, supporting investment by the Minns Government to expand and transform access to the VET sector.

The 5-year agreement places TAFE at the heart of the VET sector, providing the funding certainty required to support quality training and implement reforms to address critical skills needs. 

The NSA will provide for $1.055 billion of additional funding to NSW, enabling NSW to complete significant reform to the skills and training sector. This will support the Minns Government’s commitments to investing and rebuilding TAFE NSW and the broader skills sector. 

This includes investing in TAFE Centres of Excellence, boosting foundation skills in language, literacy, numeracy and digital literacy and Closing the Gap in educational outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

In an historic first, a new national stewardship model will coordinate strategic investment in skills across the economy and support delivery of skills needed in national priority areas, as well as providing states and territories with flexibility to meet local industry skills needs.

Nationally, the $12.6 billion investment by the Commonwealth includes an extra $2.4 billion in flexible funding to support state and territory skills sectors with capacity to deliver skills for critical and emerging industries. Priorities include:

• clean energy and Net Zero transformation of the economy.

• Australia’s sovereign capability, including advanced manufacturing skills, national security, food security and construction.

• care and support services.

• ensuring Australia’s digital and technology capability

This new investment is on top of $414 million already committed nationally for the delivery of 300,000 fee-free TAFE places from 2024.

Try a Trade giving young people in custody a chance for transition

Media Release from the NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education and the NSW Minister for Youth Justice

MEDIA RELEASE | 17 October 2023

Young people in custody are being given the opportunity to learn new skills to help them transition back into the community thanks to the Try a Trade program, jointly run by Youth Justice NSW and Training Services NSW.

The young people at Frank Baxter Youth Justice Centre in Kariong can try a range of trades including bricklaying, plastering, barbering, mechanics, carpentry, warehousing and plumbing.

Local businesses such as Colonial Painting and Decorating Service at Gosford have volunteered to teach participants plastering and painting to build connections with a potential new workforce.

The first Try a Trade day was held at Cobham Youth Justice Centre with 10 workshops held across a range of trades including carpentry, painting, and landscaping.

A second session ran at the Riverina Youth Justice Centre, where 5 businesses across different trades visited the centre to teach a range of skills including plumbing, carpentry, painting, traffic control and mechanics. 

As a result of the previous Try a Trade days at Cobham and Riverina Youth Justice Centres, 10 young people have gained employment in their chosen pathway, 2 young people have commenced apprenticeships, and over 30 have identified a set trade as a career option when they hadn’t previously done so.

Try a Trade days will be run across all 6 youth justice centres around the state throughout the remainder of 2023. These are in addition to the skills and trades programs already running in youth justice centres.

The Virtual Clinical Care Centre reducing demand for ambulances and ED treatment

Media Release from the NSW Minister for Health

MEDIA RELEASE | 12 October 2023

NSW Ambulance has today launched a major recruitment drive to boost capacity within the state’s Virtual Clinical Care Centre (VCCC).

Health Minister Ryan Park said the VCCC helps NSW Ambulance respond to Triple Zero (000) calls more effectively, operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and providing expert clinical and medical secondary triage capability.

“A significant number of calls made to Triple Zero (000) do not require a paramedic response, and that’s where our expert clinical staff in the VCCC step in,” Mr Park said.

“The VCCC was created during the pandemic at a time of unprecedented Triple Zero (000) call volumes and showed it was more than capable to manage this extreme demand and keep patients safe.

“During the devastating 2022 floods where some people requiring medical attention were isolated by flood waters, VCCC clinicians were able to provide ongoing clinical care to these patients virtually while they were waiting to be rescued.

“Expanding the VCCC ensures patients right across NSW will continue to receive the care they need regardless of where they live while also reducing demand on our ambulances and hospital emergency departments.

"The VCCC saved more than 12,000 patients from attending the emergency department last year, reducing demand on the hospital system.

“VCCC clinicians had contact with more than 100,000 Triple Zero (000) callers during this period to triage or provide support for 46,000 patients, who didn’t require urgent care by offering secondary health services available within the community.”

NSW Ambulance Commissioner Dr Dominic Morgan said the VCCC has assisted with tens of thousands of Triple Zero (000) calls since it was launched 2 years ago.

“The VCCC started with a small number of specialist clinicians on duty 16 hours a day. Two years on, it’s a 24/7 operation, which will have more than 100 staff over the next 3 years,” Dr Morgan said.

“As part of the VCCC expansion NSW Ambulance is seeking experienced registered nurse and/or registered paramedic triage clinicians, clinical nurse consultants and specialist physicians to join the fast-growing multidisciplinary team.”

In the 2 years since being established the VCCC has been successfully diverting very low acuity cases away from hospital emergency departments to more appropriate care pathways. VCCC staff also provide call backs to some patients who call Triple Zero (000) to assess them clinically and determine if the response needs to be upgraded.

NSW Government acts on initial bus safety recommendations

Media Release from Senator the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, Minister for Communications

MEDIA RELEASE | 13 October 2023

The NSW Government is working to improve safety on buses and coaches, accepting all 5 recommendations from the Bus Taskforce First Safety Report, that was ordered following the Hunter Valley tragedy.

The initial report addresses a number of key areas, including a new safety campaign to promote seatbelt usage and possible speed restriction mandates for school buses, as well as addressing risks for passengers standing on buses, travelling in speed zones over 80 km/h.

Transport for NSW has begun work to implement the recommendations, prioritising awareness around seatbelt compliance.

Immediately following the devastating bus incident in the Hunter Valley on 11 June 2023, the Transport Minister instructed the taskforce to expand its scope to examine the safety and regulatory arrangements of bus operations in NSW.

Transport for NSW will launch the new safety campaign from this week, aimed at educating passengers about the importance and legal requirements of wearing a seatbelt on a bus where one is available. Wearing a seatbelt doubles the chance of surviving a crash and reduces the risk of injury.

The campaign will initially appear on buses and coaches to ensure people buckle up when they travel. A second awareness campaign will appear later this year to coincide with peak holiday travel period.

The government looks forward to the findings of future reports, which will make further recommendations to address safety concerns that arose from the tragedy.

Recommendations from the First Safety Report of the Bus Industry Taskforce:

1. That the NSW Government and Transport for NSW complete the current implementation of the NSW Rural and Regional Seatbelts Program as soon as possible.

2. That a road safety campaign be implemented to promote compliance with seatbelt laws on buses, including by school children.

3. That Transport for NSW consider how bus operators can be best assisted to comply with their obligation to inform passengers about the mandatory use of seatbelts. This could include additional guidance material, or regulatory or contractual amendments.

4. That Transport for NSW conducts a thorough examination of the risks associated with standees on buses and explores potential risk mitigation approaches.

5. That Transport for NSW consider whether the 80km/h rule for dedicated school bus services with standing passengers could be rolled out across all services and examine ways of reducing risks for standees on buses travelling over 80 km/h.

Read the full first safety reportlaunch on the Transport for NSW website.

850,000 reasons to care during National Carers Week

Media Release from the NSW Minister for Seniors

MEDIA RELEASE | 15 October 2023

More than 850,000. unpaid carers around the state are being recognised this week as the NSW Government, service providers and the community celebrates National Carers Week.

Minister with responsibility for Carers Jodie Harrison said this year’s theme – ‘Millions of Reasons to Care’ – acknowledges the important role carers play helping others.

“Caring for a loved one takes enormous dedication and strength, and this is a week to highlight the vital work carers do,” Minister Harrison said.

“There is no job description for a carer. They do whatever needs to be done. This can include helping people perform their daily routines, cooking, cleaning or driving them to medical appointments.

“These selfless individuals in our community don’t look for public thanks and praise but their incredible efforts need to be recognised and celebrated.”

In NSW, carers support people for a range of reasons, including disability, mental health conditions, chronic illness, age, dementia or drug and alcohol dependency. Caring is nearly twice as prevalent in Aboriginal communities and almost 80,000 carers are young people 25 years or younger.

Carers NSW CEO Elena Katrakis said it is important carers look after their own health and wellbeing and for people to know there is support available if they need it.

“Many people don’t think of themselves as ‘carers’. They simply see themselves as a husband, wife, father, mother, son, daughter or friend looking after someone they love,” Ms Katrakis said.

“It can be incredibly rewarding work, but tough. So, taking time to look after yourself is the best way to be able to take care of others.”

As part of the 2023-24 Budget, the NSW Government is investing $5.1 million in targeted programs and supports for carers, including funding for programs under the NSW Carers Strategy 2020-2030 and funding for initiatives operated by Carers NSW, such as the Young Carers Program.

If you are a carer, there is a range of resources and supports available for you. Find out more at www.carergateway.gov.au or call 1800 422 737.

National Carers Week runs from Sunday 15 to Saturday 21 October 2023 and there are plenty of activities across NSW to celebrate carerslaunch.

Albanese Government proposes new rules to improve mobile coverage in new developments

Media Release from Senator the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, Minister for Communications

MEDIA RELEASE | Wednesday 11 October 2023

The Albanese Government has today opened consultation on draft planning rules to include consideration of mobile coverage in new housing developments.
 
The proposed amendments to the Telecommunications in New Developments (TIND) policy would place an expectation on developers to actively consider the inclusion of mobile infrastructure in new developments, in a similar way as other services – such as water and electricity – are currently considered.
 
The current planning policies focus on providing land-line telephone and broadband services. However, a significant number of people living in new communities report inadequate or no mobile coverage after moving into their new homes, and this can remain the case for years.
 
Not including mobile coverage in the design of new developments or expanding suburbs risks leaving residents in those areas behind when it comes to digital connectivity and inclusion.
 
In addition to expanding the scope to include mobile connectivity, the proposed amendments are intended to improve engagement between developers, carriers and other interested stakeholders.
 
Feedback on the proposed changes will inform decisions on the expansion of TIND policy to include mobile infrastructure.
 
Interested parties are encouraged to have their say on the draft amendments to the TIND Policy by 5pm AEDT on Wednesday, 8 November 2023 by emailing new.developments@infrastructure.gov.au.
 
To view the draft TIND policy or to make a submission, please visit: www.infrastructure.gov.au/have-your-say/

Early childhood workers given $12 million boost to strengthen sector into the future

Media Release from the NSW Minister for Education and Early Learning

MEDIA RELEASE | 9 October 2023

NSW’s early childhood sector workforce has been given a welcome boost of more than $12 million as the Minns Labor Government delivers its election commitment to provide scholarships to the educators of the state’s littlest learners. Funding of $12.2 million to provide scholarships to the early childhood education and care (ECEC) workforce was secured in the NSW Budget, beginning the practical work to create a pipeline of educators for this vital sector.

A target of 1700 scholarships will be made available from today, to those already working in the sector wanting to upskill, those wanting to become early childhood educators, and those wanting to gain Outside School Hours Care (OSCH) skills, growing the workforce.

These incentives will expand the ECEC workforce and help retain those already working as early childhood educators.

Applications for scholarships for early childhood educators and those interested in joining the sector are open now.

Funding includes:

• scholarships of up to $25,000 for ECEC teachers studying a Bachelor or Master degree in teaching with an early childhood education specification

• scholarships of up to $15,000 for relevant Graduate Certificates or Graduate Diplomas

• scholarships of up to $5000 for ECEC educators studying a relevant Diploma in ECEC or School Age Education and Care

• scholarships of up to $3000 for students earning a Certificate III in ECEC, OSHC.

The process of applying for scholarships has also become easier as the Minns Labor Government scraps application rounds, allowing current and prospective students to apply freely throughout the year.

A targeted stream has also been created for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students wanting to apply.

This funding is just part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to boost the Early Childhood and Care workforce, and comes in addition to our maintenance of the $5 billion Childcare and Economic Opportunity Fund and $5.7 billion to work towards universal preschool.

More information about available scholarships can be found on the NSW Department of Education websitelaunch.

A new home for Pro Patria Centre - Wagga Wagga

Image sourced from: Pro Patria Centre

Wagga Wagga and the wider Riverina region is home to a significant number of current and former Australian Defence Force personnel, many of whom have returned from active service. It is also a region with a significant number of current and former Police, Paramedics and other emergency services members.

Pro Patria Centre is an innovative multidisciplinary facility focused on developing self-agency in veterans, first responders, and their families to manage their own well-being and health.

In late August 2023, the Pro Patria Centre secured the use of a former monastery in Wagga Wagga. The property is a unique, peaceful, family-friendly location and the newly elected Board of Directors and committee are aiming to develop it into a hub for serving and ex-serving and their families.

Have Your Say | NSW Vocational Education and Training Sector

NSW Education are reviewing the NSW Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector and are seeking your feedback as part of the review. They are looking, in particular, at the current landscape of VET in NSW, including TAFE and other VET providers.

The review will identify the strengths, gaps and opportunities for improvement in skills development and training to support our students and workforce.

Submissions close 24 November 2023

$10 million for Aboriginal organisations to Close the Gap

Media Release from the NSW Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty

MEDIA RELEASE | 29 September 2023

Expressions of interest are now open for Aboriginal organisations to apply for the next round of Community and Place Grants.

$10 million funding for the grants, to deliver immediate and tangible on-ground activities to support Closing the Gap, were confirmed in the first Minns Labor budget handed down on Tuesday 19 September.

In launching the grant round, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs David Harris said Aboriginal controlled organisations could apply for up to $250,000 in funding for new programs, infrastructure, equipment and vehicles.

“Aboriginal organisations know what their communities need to thrive and that is why this grants program is so important,” Mr Harris said.

“It gives Aboriginal communities a direct say and direct access to funding to make tangible differences on the ground.

“We know that to close the gap, Aboriginal people must determine, drive and own the desired outcomes in partnership with government and that is exactly what this program is all about.

The Closing the Gap NSW Implementation Plan 2022– 2024launch commits to drive tangible change against all 5 Priority Reform areas and 17 Socio Economic Outcome targets agreed in the National Agreement on Closing the Gap. Community and Place grants support communities to deliver locally led solutions. $10 million in funding is available in this round.

Applications will be assessed via a 2-step process:

• Stage 1: EOI from Monday 2 October to 30 October 2023. EOI applications will be assessed for eligibility and program alignment, with applications being approved to provide a full application by AANSW Deputy Secretary.

• Stage 2: Full applications from 4 December 2023 to 29 January 2024.

• Projects must be delivered between 1 July 2024 and 30 June 2025. 

Closing the Gap is a top priority for the Minns Labor government. The first Minns Labor government budget delivers $1.5 billion in targeted programs across the whole of government to Close the Gap and empower Aboriginal communities across NSW.

“We know that when Aboriginal people have a direct say on issues that affect them, we get better outcomes, and that is what we intend to do in government,” Mr Harris said.

Details of the grant program can be found at Aboriginal Affairs NSW: Grantslaunch.

Fire season officially commences as weather heats up

Media Release from NSW Minister for Emergency Service

MEDIA RELEASE | 1 October 2023

With hot weather predicted across NSW for the week ahead, fire agencies have signalled the start of the fire danger period across most of the state with a call to households to prepare.

Today marks the official start of the 2023-24 bushfire season in areas including Greater Sydney, the Central Coast, the Illawarra and the Central West. This follows weeks of unseasonably warm weather that has kept NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) firefighters on high alert.

The RFS has responded to more than 2,000 bush and grass fires across NSW in September alone, as firefighters prepare for what is predicted to be a warm and windy summer.

Due to the conditions today nine total fire bans are in force across NSW with further bans likely this week.

The statutory Bush Fire Danger Period (BDFP) begins for most local government areas (LGAs) today. Thirty-eight LGAs have already been in this danger period for at least a month, including 11 that entered it earlier than usual due to warm and dry conditions.

Firefighting personnel and volunteers across the state continue to train for fire and emergency response, but communities are reminded that they have a role to play in bushfire preparedness as well.

Residents are urged to undertake simple measures such as downloading the Hazards Near Me NSW app, checking the RFS websitelaunch, having a plan in place if a fire approaches (even if it is knowing whether to stay or leave early), and carrying out the following around your home:

• Trim overhanging trees and shrubs.

• Mow grass and remove the cuttings. Have a cleared area around your home.

• Remove material that can burn around your home, such as door mats, wood piles and mulch.

• Clear and remove all the debris and leaves from the gutters surrounding your home.   

• Prepare a sturdy hose or hoses that will reach all around your home.

As a result of the prolonged wet weather across NSW, around 25 per cent of planned hazard reduction work was completed up to July this year. While more work is needed, the RFS and other agencies have made progress in hazard reduction treating more than 40,000 hectares since the beginning of July.

The onset of hot, windy and dry conditions is expected to affect further hazard reduction as the window to undertake burns begins to close.

To assist in preparation the NSW Government has invested $9 million in a Chinook helicopter, the first of its kind to be permanently based in Australia. With the capacity to carry up to 10,000 litres of water or retardant this summer, the Chinook will increase the RFS’s aerial firefighting capabilities and will lessen our reliance on aircraft borrowed from overseas.

The statutory BFDP commences on 1 October 2023 and runs through to 31 March 2024. Nine LGAs will commence BFDP on 1 November and these include Albury, Berrigan, Coolamon, Greater Hume, Junee, Lockhart, Wagga Wagga and Snowy Valleys.

Bush Fire Survival Planslaunch and information on preparing your property and family are available on the RFS websitelaunch.