Delivering Australians more choice of cars to save on fuel

MEDIA RELEASE

Sunday 04 February 2024

JOINT RELEASE WITH

The Hon Chris Bowen MP

Minister for Climate Change and Energy

The Albanese Government is delivering more cars that are cheaper to run, giving motorists choice by introducing a New Vehicle Efficiency Standard for Australia.

The United States has had a similar policy in place for fifty years. But because of a decade of delay and denial, Australia still stands alongside Russia as one of the only advanced economies without the Standard. This is costing families and businesses thousands of dollars at the petrol pump.

The Albanese Government’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard will push car makers to give Australian motorists more choices of new cars, utes and vans that use less fuel and that have until now only been available to buyers in overseas markets.

The preferred model for the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard, made available today on cleanercars.gov.au, has been under development since the Government committed to the Standard last year - to ensure it strikes the right balance in giving Australians more choice while using less petrol.

If Australia catches up with the Standard in the U.S. by around 2028, Australians stand to save about $1000 per vehicle per year.

The Standard will only apply to new passenger and light commercial vehicles, not used or existing vehicles. They work by providing car companies with targets for average emissions per kilometre from new vehicles sold.

The New Vehicle Efficiency Standard will deliver more vehicles to Australia with the latest engine and design technologies to ensure lower fuel bills, meaning bigger savings at the petrol pump.

The Albanese Government will consult on the preferred model for a month and introduce the legislation as soon as possible, with the new cost saving rules to come into effect by 1 January 2025.

The Impact Analysis and ways to have your say are available at www.cleanercars.gov.au

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen:

“Because of a lack of action on an Efficiency Standard, Australian families are paying around $1000 a year more than they need to be for their annual fuel bill – the Albanese Government is delivering long-term cost-of-living relief to fix that for new vehicles and put money back in people’s pockets.

“We’re giving Australians more choice to spend less on petrol, by catching up with the U.S– this will save Australian motorists $100bn in fuel costs to 2050.

“This is about ensuring Australian families and businesses can choose the latest and most efficient cars and utes, whether they’re petrol and diesel engines, or hybrid, or electric.”

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

“The Albanese government favours a model which ensures achievable change, which will bring Australia in line with US standards by 2028 and provide the optimal cost benefit outcomes for Australian car buyers.

"The standard increases choice.  It doesn’t dictate what sort of car or ute people can buy, but will mean you have a wider range of modern and cheaper to run vehicles.

As you make the choice about your next car, it’s only fair you have the widest range of options possible to get the car that is right for you and right for your hip pocket."

New Vehicle Efficiency Standard—Cleaner, Cheaper to run Cars for Australia

The Australian Government is seeking feedback from the community on the final design of a New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (also known as a fuel efficiency standard) that will catch us up with other countries, reduce emissions, save Australians money at the fuel bowser and see cleaner cars on the road.

Why we want your input

Your input will inform the development and implementation of a New Vehicle Efficiency Standard that provides global vehicle manufacturers with the right incentives to send cleaner vehicles to Australia.

How you can voice your opinion

We are listening to the Australian community. We are now undertaking consultation on the Government’s settings. A link to our consultation paper is available below, and you can respond directly to our key questions as well as lodge a submission via the ‘Have your say’ button at the bottom of this page. Written submissions will only be accepted through this process.

What will be the outcome of this consultation?

Your submission will inform the Government's approach to an Australian New Vehicle Efficiency Standard and help Australia to achieve net zero by 2050. In our first consultation on the design of a New Vehicle Efficiency Standard, we received around 2,700 submissions.

Chicks In The Sticks - Connection, Conversation and Lunch

Yanco Creek and Tributaries Advisory Council Inc. (YACTAC) are excited to announce a CHICKS IN THE STICKS event is landing in Jerilderie on Sunday 17th March 2024. This project is supported by Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR). Key elements of the day will be a casual pre-gathering on the banks of Lake Jerilderie, before heading to the networking luncheon in the Civic Centre.

Guest speakers will be focussing on decision making/leadership/creating opportunities for entrepreneurship, empowering strategies for personal and community wellbeing, plus a social interest topic. Collaboration partners for key conversations and local bespoke trade stalls will be in attendance. We look forward to providing further details of this unique networking event early in the new year: so, CHICKS add the date to your calendar!

NSW Government Regional Development Advisory Council Appoints RDA Riverina Chair Dianna Sommerville As Member

Regional Development Australia Riverina is delighted to share that our Board Director and Chair Dianna Somerville has been selected as a member of the NSW Government Regional Development Advisory Council.

This Council has been tasked to provide independent advice to the NSW Government and Minister on regional investment and economic development. Dianna has been nominated as a suitable appointee by the Australian Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, the Hon Kristy McBain MP. Learn more about Dianna here.

See details below from the Minister for Regional NSW.

Photo supplied by Department of Regional NSW / https://bit.ly/3HTkZzU

Press Release Published: 29 December 2023

Released by: Minister for Regional NSW

Interim members of the NSW Government Regional Development Advisory Council have been appointed by the Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty, with the council tasked with ensuring regional and rural communities are placed at the centre of government decision making.

The Regional Development Advisory Council will play an important role in modernising the Regional Development Act (2004), and provide independent advice to the Minister for Regional NSW to ensure projects are evidence-based and achieve real outcomes for communities.

The appointment of members for an interim of 12 months enables the council to be fast tracked into existence so progress can be made in reviewing the Act, and advise the minister on establishing a robust governance framework for the $350 million Regional Development Trust Fund.

The new chairperson appointed is Alison Sheridan, Professor Emeritus at the University of New England (UNE). Prof Sheridan was head of UNE’s Business School, leading the establishment of the UNE Smart Region Incubator and the Master of Economic and Regional Development course. (See below list of all members and short bio).

Appointees to the Regional Development Advisory Council were identified through a process managed by the Department of Regional NSW working with an independent talent search agency, in consultation with the Premier’s Department and NSW Treasury. 

A call for expression of interest for becoming an advisory council member with a 3-year tenure will get underway in mid-2024 with the new council established by the end of 2024.

The Regional Development Trust Fund will look to deliver its first tranche of funding investment in the first half of 2024. It will have 4 focus areas – sustainable regional industries, improving regional service delivery, supporting Aboriginal economic development, and developing community infrastructure and capacity building.

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:

“The appointment of these 7 interim members to the Regional Development Advisory Council is an important step towards the provision of independent and expert advice on what projects and programs should be funded in regional NSW,” Ms Moriarty said.

“The Regional Development Advisory Council and the Regional Development Trust Fund will ensure NSW Government investment goes where it is needed most in regional NSW.

“I congratulate all the members on their appointment and look forward to working with them over the next 12 months.”

Advisory Council Chairperson Professor Alison Sheridan said:

“This is a wonderful opportunity to ensure we create a robust and sustainable investment framework for regional and rural NSW. As someone who has undertaken substantial research on regional development I understand how important strategic investment is for delivering real outcomes for communities.”

Regional Development Advisory Council members

Alison Sheridan (Chairperson)

Alison Sheridan is a Professor Emeritus at the University of New England (UNE). Professor Sheridan has been based in regional NSW for 35 years and was previously head of UNE’s Business School. She led the establishment of the UNE Smart Region Incubator and co-led development of the Master of Economic and Regional Development course.

Danica Leys

Danica Leys is an admitted solicitor in New South Wales and current Chief Executive of the Country Women’s Association (CWA) of NSW, which has a base of 8,000 members. She is also an operator of a farming business in North West NSW. Ms Leys is a board member for Greater Sydney Local Land Services and is a member of the NSW Domestic and Family Violence and Sexual Assault Council.

Thomas McKeon

Thomas McKeon is an accomplished professional with over 40 years of experience in the agriculture, asset, and investment management industries. Based in southeast NSW, Mr McKeon has a strong background in senior and executive management roles within large-scale corporate agricultural companies, both in Australia and internationally.

Alison Stone

Alison Stone is based in the Hunter region and has a 40-year career in land and infrastructure management, commercial development, forestry, fire and emergency management, and primary industries at local, state and national levels in executive, board and advisory roles.

Carol Vale

Carol Vale, is a Dunghutti Woman from Armidale, NSW and has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for Indigenous Australians. She is the co-founder and CEO of Murawin, a national professional advisory service specialising in social research, evaluation, place strategy and sustainability. She has extensive experience in regional development and social planning and is a current member of the Planning Institute of Australia’s Cultural Knowledge Circle.

Rebecca Fox (ex-officio member)

Rebecca Fox is the Secretary of the Department of Regional NSW. Ms Fox has extensive experience in government and legal sectors and was the first female and non-technical lead of NSW Public Works in the history of the business.

Dianna Somerville (ex-officio member)

Dianna Somerville is the current chairperson of Regional Development Australia Riverina and was nominated by the Australian Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain MP. Dianna has lectured in entrepreneurship and been involved with economic development in regional communities.

Visions of Australia to showcase Australian art across the country

MEDIA RELEASE FROM THE HON TONY BURKE MP 05/02/2024

Communities across the country will be able to enjoy unique Australian art and storytelling as part of the Albanese Labor Government’s Visions of Australia program.

More than $1.3 million in funding will be shared amongst nine projects to support the development and touring of exhibitions, with a particular focus on venues in regional and remote Australia.

Recipients include:

• Same Like Yesterday: Virlkuthalypila and Other Stories from Our Country – a colourful projection-installation work which follows 6 senior Adnyamathanha women and 2 teenage girls sharing their stories and memories, which will tour nine venues across South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

• Primavera, The Museum of Contemporary Art’s 32nd annual exhibition – showcasing innovative and experimental works by young Australian artists, touring nine venues across New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and Victoria.

• The Brothers Gruchy ­– an exhibition from Bundaberg Regional Galleries featuring key artworks from acclaimed digital artists Tim and Mic Gruchy, touring ten venues across Tasmania, South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland.

• Brett Whiteley: Inside the Studio – an exhibition which will tour Western Australia, Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales offering a rare insight in this iconic Australian artist featuring unseen paintings, drawings, sculpture, ceramics, sketchbooks and photography.

Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the funding will ensure more Australians have the opportunity to experience and appreciate meaningful and culturally important Australian art.

“Australian art should never just be for our capital cities. It should be enjoyed by all Australians, no matter where they live.

“From Gladstone to Geraldton and Araluen to Albury – that’s exactly what this program does.”

For more information on the Visions of Australia program, visit Visions of Australia | Office for the Arts.

Communities In Control - Exploring The Future Of Leadership

In a time of uncertainty, the future can seem scary.

But organisations who don’t peek into the future and prepare for what is to come will inevitably be left behind.

The community sector needs to lift its gaze from the daily grind and assemble for what’s coming next. As we charge into the future, how can leaders prepare themselves to lead?

The Communities in Control autumn season will present a range of leaders from the community sector and beyond to discuss the future of leadership. We’ll consider the way we work and live, how we might think differently to avoid burnout, what Gen Z looks like in the workforce (and how we can work with them – and they with us – to achieve the best results), and how we can break out of the echo chamber and spread our message far and wide.

The leaders of tomorrow embrace the future with confidence. They anticipate what lies ahead and stand ready to face it head-on.

For more information and to register for the event, follow the link below.

Wagga Wagga in 2050: Have Your Say

Council is facilitating the development of a new Community Strategic Plan (CSP) which is the highest-level plan that a Council will prepare. Our CSP will be known as “Wagga Wagga 2050”.  All of our community are being asked to share their views, thoughts, aspirations, and visions for the future of the City of Wagga Wagga and its surrounding villages.
 

Together with the community, we will identify the:

• long-term vision,

• aspirations, and

• main priorities for the local government area.

The plan will provide a roadmap of how this will be achieved.

4 key questions will be addressed in the final plan.

1. Where we are now?

2. Where do we want to be in 20 - 25 years’ time?

3. How will we get there?

4. How will we know we have arrived?

The CSP will provide direction and focus of all future plans for the City of Wagga Wagga over the coming 20 - 25 years.

The plan will consider state and regional plans and priorities as they apply to council.

For more information and to see what other Council projects are open to consultation, click the button below.

24/7 support available for those impacted by property access and acquisition

Support for landowners, their families, tenants, and directly affected parties impacted by property access and acquisition

The property acquisition process can be emotional and stressful. EnergyCo takes the wellbeing and mental health of landowners and affected parties seriously.

EnergyCo provides a dedicated Acquisition Manager and Place Manager to help you work through the practical aspects of the property access and acquisition process. However, we understand that the process can also be emotionally challenging.

Photo: Supplied from webpage Support for landowners | EnergyCo (nsw.gov.au)

Call for immediate support

You can call the Property Acquisition Support Line any time on 1300 089 551. The Support Line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 000 or go straight to the nearest hospital emergency department.

Qualified professionals are available to talk to you 24/7

The NSW Government has engaged an independent service provider to deliver a free and confidential Property Acquisition Support Line. You can call the Property Acquisition Support Line on 1300 089 551 and talk to qualified psychologists and social workers 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

This service is available to property owners, their families, tenants, commercial property and business owners, and employees directly affected by property acquisition and other EnergyCo property discussions such as access agreements.

You do not need a referral to access the Support Line.

Access free one-on-one counselling sessions

Help is available when you need it through this free, independent, and confidential support line. For those eligible, you can get up to five free face-to-face or phone sessions per person.

If more than five sessions are required, your counsellor will request this on your behalf based on their clinical assessment. They will also help establish longer-term support if you need it.

The Support Line is delivered by a team of qualified psychologists and social workers. These counsellors can help you develop skills and tools to protect your emotional and psychological wellbeing. They are there to support your mental and emotional welfare.

Counselling is immediate, solution-oriented, and empowerment driven. Counsellors use a combination of counselling and coaching techniques to help you with your immediate needs and into the future.

All counsellors are fully qualified and have access to a referral network of external organisations to provide long-term help.

Telstra upgrading 4G and 5G coverage at Galore Hill.

Infrastructure Upgrade - Update from Telstra 31/01/24

Telstra will be upgrading its mobile base station located at Galore Hill by adding additional infrastructure to bring better 4G & 5G services to the surrounding community, but the works will require a series of temporary outages or reduction in mobile coverage.

The base station at Galore Hill provides coverage to the agricultural area between Lockhart and Narrandera, including the Sturt Highway.

These improvements will temporarily impact Telstra mobile coverage at various times from Wednesday the 07 February to Friday 23 February 2024. Some customers may still receive overlapping coverage from other nearby mobile base stations.

Disruptions of up to 8 hours per day may be experienced from Thursday 08 February to Friday 16 February while the first phase of work takes place.

The second phase of disruptions will be experienced from 7am on Monday 19 February to 5pm on Thursday 22 February. The site is expected to be off the air for this entire period.

Disruptions of up to 4 hours per may be experienced on Friday 23rd of February whilst call testing and commissioning works are undertaken.

If all goes according to plan and weather permitting the mobile upgrade will be completed on the 23rd of February 2024.

Telstra mobile customers will receive text messages advising of the upcoming work.

Landline services, NBN internet services and mobile coverage from other providers will not be impacted. Any calls to Triple Zero from a Telstra mobile when the site is off air will automatically be diverted to any working mobile network for connection to emergency services.

Regional General Manager for Telstra, Chris Taylor said while our crews need to work during daylight for safety, we'll only be switching off the site when we need to and have it back on as quickly as possible.

"There's never a good time to undertake this sort of work but once it is completed, it will mean better mobile services for local residents," Chris Taylor said.

"As a company, we heavily invest in improving regional connectivity and this site is another example of our commitment. "Over the past seven years to the end of FY23, Telstra invested $11 billion in our mobile network nationally, with $4 billion of this invested in our regional mobile network."

Tips for improving connectivity while works are underway

For mobile coverage in the interim, if residents have access to a wi-fi signal at home or at work, Telstra encourages residents to activate wi-fi calling. This is a free setting on most popular mobile phones and allows your mobile to use a Wi-Fi network to make and receive mobile calls. To find out more they can google Telstra wifi calling or just search in your settings icon on your phone.

We know many businesses use the Telstra network for their EFTPOS terminals. However, Telstra does not operate the EFTPOS network; it is operated by financial institutions. Many EFTPOS terminals can also be connected using fixed line or Wi-Fi/nbn internet connections. Retailers should contact their bank for more information and details on how to switch between these methods to ensure continuous service.

Charles Sturt University regional community grants applications open

Proudly supporting community development in our regions

Are you a local community group, school, sporting club or First Nations group? Do you want a grant of up to $1,000 to support your projects and plans? Apply now for our 2024 CUP Grant Program!

Grants are available in all Charles Sturt University regional communities, including Albury-Wodonga, Bathurst, Dubbo, Orange, Port Macquarie, Wangaratta, Wagga Wagga and surrounds.

We encourage applications from the following categories:

•             Arts and culture

•             Education development

•             Environmental sustainability

•             Health and wellbeing

•             Sports development

Applications are open now and close Sunday 3 March 2024, at 11.59pm.

For more information, please visit our website or email community@csu.edu.au

APPLICATIONS CLOSING SOON: Grants of up to $10,000 available to community groups in regional, rural and remote areas.

Recognising the impacts of COVID-19 on communities, the Australian Government has partnered with Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) to distribute $5 million from 2022 to 2024 to support community-led initiatives.

The Strengthening Rural Communities (SRC) Small & Vital stream gives small remote, rural and regional communities across Australia the opportunity to access funds for a broad range of initiatives that directly and clearly benefit local communities.

Image: Augusta & Districts Community Childcare Centre, SRC Rd 8 Grant Recipient. Source: Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR)

Grants up to $10,000 are available for a broad range of grassroots, community-led initiatives that directly and clearly benefit local communities that strengthen local people, places and climate solutions, with a preference for smaller communities (populations under 15,000).

The objectives of the program are to:   

• Enhance the process of recovery of remote, rural and regional communities from the COVID-19 pandemic;

• Reduce social isolation and foster stronger, more resilient remote, rural and regional communities; and/or  

• Sustain local remote, rural and regional organisations and their work.  

The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s (FRRR) Strengthening Rural Communities program supports local organisations uplift their communities, following significant disruption from COVID-19.

• Eligible projects include: Supporting, training or attracting volunteers

• Events & activities to reconnect communities

• Enhancing community spaces to increase use

• Developing services and support for vulnerable people Purchase of equipment or resources

This is the final round of the Rebuilding Regional Communities stream, and applications close 5pm AEDT 26 February 2024.

Learn more at www.frrr.org.au/SRC Ph: 1800 170 020 or Email: covidsupport@frrr.org.au

Localise You: Bridging Communities and Industries, Backed by Industry Leader

Localise You, a pioneering community integration service, has captured the attention and support of industry and government organisations alike, with endorsements from prominent players such as the SunRice Group in Leeton. This innovative platform is dedicated to connecting professionals from diverse backgrounds and regions, fostering a stronger sense of community awareness and inclusion.

Site Manager at SunRice’s mill in Leeton Simon Scicluna (left) and Localise You Owner and Founder Maryann Iannelli (right) at SunRice Group registered office in Leeton.

In an increasingly globalised world, the need for seamless community integration has never been more apparent. Localise You aims to bridge the gap between professionals from various walks of life, creating opportunities for local awareness, social integration and provides employers with a platform for employee satisfaction and engagement through their unique quality events ‘Familiarise & Socialise’. This unique service has garnered praise from industry leaders and is poised to become a game-changer for assisting industry and government agencies in attracting and retaining skilled professionals to regional locations.

The SunRice Group, an industry leader in rice production, has recognised the potential of Localise You’s ‘Familiarise & Socialise’ events in promoting unity and enhancing productivity within their organisations. The service not only caters to individuals but also addresses the broader needs of businesses and government bodies.

Simon Scicluna, Site Manager at SunRice’s mill in Leeton, expressed his enthusiasm for Localise You, saying, "SunRice values community integration and understands the importance of bridging the gap between newcomers and the community. Localise You provides a fantastic platform for our employees to engage with the Leeton community and foster social connections within their new environment. We believe that this service will enrich our employees’ relocation experience and lead to positive employee engagement and in return assist with employee retention."

Localise You offers a wide range of features, including:

1. Shared Orientation Events: Facilitating opportunities for professionals learn about our Shire, meet key community members for their integration, and establish valuable connections.

2. Tailored Orientation: Creating a tailored experience for personal and family needs to adjust to local offerings, and connect with community organisations of interest.

3. Corporate Events: Engaging employees through events designed to encourage team building, local appreciation and foster a positive internal culture.

The service has garnered interest from not only corporate leaders but also government organisations, including schools and healthcare eager to promote community integration in their organisations.

Localise You Founder Maryann Iannelli expressed gratitude for the support the service has received and said, "We are thrilled to see Localise You gaining recognition and support from organisations like SunRice, local schools and healthcare. Our goal is to provide our regions with a platform that will assist with attracting and retaining skilled professionals in the regions. With such endorsements, we are more motivated than ever to make this vision a reality."

Localise You’s next ‘Familiarise & Socialise’ event is scheduled for Wednesday 28th February 2024. It is designed to inform attendees of local agribusiness productivity, provide insight into the local lifestyle, showcase unique resources available and network with local community members and foster connections with other newcomers. It is a full day of activities, enjoying local hospitality from Hydro Hotel and The Whitton Malt House, agribusiness tours. Tickets are available online via the website www.localiseyou.com.au

For more information about our Familiarise & Socialise event and how Localise You can provide a positive impact for your business and your employees, contact Maryann via email, maryann@localiseyou.com.au to arrange an introductory consultation.

Regional NSW, make the move

Calling all Sydney essential workers!

If you are looking to have more time for yourself and your family or just want to escape the hustle bustle of the city, there’s never been a better time to make the move to regional NSW.
Regional towns and cities are calling out for more nurses, teachers, police officers, caseworkers, firefighters and other essential workers to join their communities and provide much needed access to critical services.

More than a third of the state’s population lives in regional NSW and even more people chose to relocate during the COVID-19 pandemic. With thriving towns and cities boasting a diverse range of industries, businesses, people, communities and cultures, you’ll love life in regional NSW. 

An exciting new service is now available for essential government workers and their families to support a move into regional communities. Whether it’s just an initial enquiry, or you’re ready to pack your bags, The Welcome Experience can provide local advice on what life is like in regional NSW. 

The Welcome Experience

This exciting new service provides essential workers and their families with the support they need to move into regional communities, settle in and become one of the locals. 

Learn how you can make the move today > nsw.gov.au/makethemove

Telstra adding 5G coverage in Bomen Park

Media release from Telstra 11th January 2024

Telstra will be upgrading one of its mobile base stations in Bomen Park by adding additional infrastructure to bring 5G services to the area, but the works will require a series of temporary outages or reduction in mobile coverage. The Bomen Park site provides mobile coverage to the industrial park and north along the Olympic Highway.

There will be some temporary impacts to Telstra mobile coverage at various times from Tuesday 23 January to Friday 2 February 2024. While some areas may be without Telstra mobile coverage at times during this period, some customers may still receive overlapping coverage from other nearby mobile base stations.

The first phase of disruptions will occur between 7am on Wednesday 24 January and 5pm on Monday 29 of January. The base station will be off the air during this period.

Disruptions of up to 4 hours per day may be experienced from Wednesday 30 January to Friday 2 February as testing and integration are carried out.

If all goes according to schedule the mobile upgrade will be completed on the 2 of February 2024. Telstra mobile customers may have already received text messages advising of the upcoming work.

Landline services, NBN internet services and mobile coverage from other providers will not be impacted. Any calls to Triple Zero from a Telstra mobile when the site is off air will automatically be diverted to any working mobile network for connection to emergency services.

Telstra Regional General Manager Chris Taylor said while our crews need to work during daylight for safety, we'll only be switching off the site when we need to and have it back on as quickly as possible.

"Where possible we will just be switching off the parts of the tower we are working on, leaving the rest operational. While coverage and capacity will decline during this time, we want to keep the amount of time the site is off air to an absolute minimum," Mr Taylor said.

"There's never a good time to undertake this sort of work but once it is completed, it will mean better mobile services for local residents."

"Telstra does have other mobile base stations which may help provide some coverage, but most of our mobile coverage for this area does come from this base station so there will be an impact."

"As a company, we heavily invest in improving regional connectivity. Over the past seven years to the end of FY23, Telstra invested $11 billion in our mobile network nationally, with $4 billion of this invested in our regional mobile network."

Tips for improving connectivity while works are underway

For mobile coverage in the interim, if residents have access to a Wi-Fi signal at home or at work, Telstra encourages residents to activate Wi-Fi calling. This is a free setting on most popular mobile phones and allows your mobile to use a Wi-Fi network to make and receive mobile calls. To find out more they can google Telstra WiFi calling or just search in your settings icon on your phone.

We know many businesses use the Telstra network for their EFTPOS terminals. However, Telstra does not operate the EFTPOS network; it is operated by financial institutions. Many EFTPOS terminals can also be connected using fixed line or Wi-Fi/nbn internet connections. Retailers should contact their bank for details on how to switch between these methods to ensure continuous service.

Long term benefits of the site upgrade

The roll out of 5G connectivity for the first time in Bomen Park means businesses and residents with Telstra 5G mobile devices will be able to enjoy a better mobile experience.

"We're continuing to expand our 5G network across location and nationally we're adding new sites to the network every week. Upgrades such as these continue to demonstrate Telstra's ongoing commitment to regional Australia," Mr Taylor said.

Once completed, Bomen Park will join more than 4,900 Telstra 5G sites on-air within selected areas of more than four hundred cities and towns across Australia. 85 per cent of all Australians now having the ability to access to the Telstra 5G network where they live.

For customers wishing to access 5G on the Telstra network, they will need a 5G capable device so for some people, that may mean upgrading their current device.

Telstra upgrading 4G coverage and bringing new 5G connectivity along Barellan Road

Media Release from Telstra, 2nd January 2024

Telstra will be upgrading its mobile base station on Barellan Road by adding additional infrastructure to bring better 4G services to the area. The work will also prepare the network for 5G coverage to be provided once the 3G network closes as planned in June 2024, but the works will require a series of temporary outages or reduction in mobile coverage.

The Telstra base station on Barellan Road provides mobile reception along the highway between Narrandera and Barellan, and the surrounding area towards Bald Hill.

These improvements will temporarily impact Telstra mobile coverage at various times from Monday the 15th January to Tuesday the 23rd January 2024.

The first outage will commence on Monday the 15th January at 7am to Friday the 19th January at 5pm. There will be no Telstra mobile network coverage during this period.

Temporary outages may be experienced between Saturday the 20th of January and Tuesday the 23rd of January as we test and integrate the mobile network.

If all goes according to plan and weather permitting the mobile upgrade will be completed on the 23rd of January 2024.

Telstra mobile customers will receive text messages advising of the upcoming work.

Landline services, NBN internet services and mobile coverage from other providers will not be impacted. Any calls to Triple Zero from a Telstra mobile when the site is off air will automatically be diverted to any working mobile network for connection to emergency services.

Telstra Regional General Manager Chris Taylor said while our crews need to work during daylight for safety, we’ll only be switching off the site when we need to and have it back on as quickly as possible.

“There’s never a good time to undertake this sort of work but once it is completed, it will mean better mobile services for local residents,” Mr Taylor said.

“As a company, we heavily invest in improving regional connectivity and this site is another example of our commitment. “Over the past seven years to the end of FY23, Telstra invested $11 billion in our mobile network nationally, with $4 billion of this invested in our regional mobile network.”

Tips for improving connectivity while works are underway

For mobile coverage in the interim, if residents have access to a wi-fi signal at home or at work, Telstra encourages residents to activate wi-fi calling. This is a free setting on most popular mobile phones and allows your mobile to use a Wi-Fi network to make and receive mobile calls. To find out more they can google Telstra wifi calling or just search in your settings icon on your phone.

We know many businesses use the Telstra network for their EFTPOS terminals. However, Telstra does not operate the EFTPOS network, it is operated by financial institutions. Many EFTPOS terminals can also be connected using fixed line or Wi-Fi/nbn internet connections. Retailers should contact their bank for more information and details on how to switch between these methods to ensure continuous service.

Long term benefits of the site upgrade

The roll out of 5G connectivity for the first time along Barellan Road means customers with Telstra 5G mobile devices will be able to enjoy a better mobile experience. The upgrade also brings added benefits for customers on the Telstra 4G network with more capacity, providing better network connectivity and less congestion in peak times.

“We’re continuing to expand our 5G network across location and nationally we’re adding new sites to the network every week. Upgrades such as these continue to demonstrate Telstra’s ongoing commitment to regional Australia,” Chris said.

Once completed, Barellan Road will join more than 4,900 Telstra 5G sites on-air within selected areas of more than four hundred cities and towns across Australia. 85 per cent of all Australians now having the ability to access to the Telstra 5G network where they live.

For customers wishing to access 5G on the Telstra network, they will need a 5G capable device so for some people, that may mean upgrading their current device.

Government welcomes road safety and productivity reforms

Joint Media Release from the Hon Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; and Sentaor the Hon Carol Brown, Assistant minister for Infrastructure and Transport

MEDIA RELEASE | 20 December 2023

The Australian Government has welcomed transport ministers’ in-principle agreement to an improved, nationally-consistent approach to the training and licence progression of heavy vehicle drivers.

Endorsed by Australian transport ministers through the Infrastructure and Transport Ministers Meeting (ITMM), the National Heavy Vehicle Driver Competency Framework Decision Regulation Impact Statement (Decision RIS) proposes a series of reforms to improve road safety and productivity.

These changes will strengthen heavy vehicle driver skills and knowledge through redesigned learning and assessment requirements specific to each licence class.

Minimum course lengths and behind-the-wheel time will also be made compulsory, while some training and assessment will be delivered online to lower costs and allow licence applicants more flexibility.

New experience-based licence-progression pathways will be introduced to help drivers progress to higher licence classes more quickly while supporting road safety outcomes.

For more information, visit https://austroads.com.au/drivers-and-vehicles/registration-and-licensing/heavy-vehicle-driver-competency-framework.

Supporting the regions - applications open for local community grants

Joint Media Release from the Hon Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; and Jill Karena, FRRR Place Portfolio Lead

MEDIA RELEASE | 19 December 2023

The Albanese Government is supporting the continued recovery from COVID-19 in the regions, with up to $10,000 available to community groups across regional, remote and rural Australia.

The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s (FRRR) Strengthening Rural Communities program provides grants of up to $10,000 to support local organisations to uplift their communities following significant disruption from COVID-19.

Grants could be for initiatives such as workshops, education programs or improving facilities and community equipment.

The last round, delivered in November, saw 55 local-led projects across the country shared in over $470,000 in grants.

From 2022 to 2024, the Australian Government has invested $5 million in the Rebuilding Regional Communities stream of the FRRR’s Strengthening Rural Communities program. The final round of Rebuilding Regional Communities is now open.

• Learn more: Final round for Rebuilding Regional Communities (sharepoint.com) and Supporting the regions

• Applications close: 5:00PM (AEDT) 26 February 2024.

• Help: covidsupport@frrr.org.au / 1800 170 020

For further information and how to apply visit www.frrr.org.au/funding/place/src-rebuilding-regional-communities/.

$20 million to boost mobile coverage along urban fringes

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

MEDIA RELEASE | 18 December 2023

Communities on the fringes of major urban centres in bushfire prone areas are set to share in $20 million in Commonwealth investment to upgrade mobile coverage, with Round 2 of the Peri-Urban Mobile Program (PUMP) now open for applications.
 
The second round of PUMP will provide grant funding to Mobile Network Operators (MNO) and Mobile Network Infrastructure Providers to deliver new or upgraded mobile phone infrastructure that targets longstanding mobile coverage and reception issues. Infrastructure sharing will again be encouraged through this round to ensure the benefits of the funding flows as widely as possibly amongst communities.     
 
Eligible areas under the latest round have been expanded to include major regional cities across Australia like Geelong, the Gold Coast and Newcastle, along with the peri-urban edges of major capital cities.

The peri-urban fringe is where the bush meets the suburbs, creating bushfire risks for those living and working in these areas. Communities in many of these areas have generally been underserved because of the high cost of deploying infrastructure, difficult terrain, planning challenges and lower population densities. 
 
A Project Noticeboard has been established to help local councils and community groups identify mobile coverage and quality of service issues in their area to assist telcos develop new infrastructure proposals for the round. The Noticeboard will be open until applications close.
 
PUMP complements work of the Albanese Government to improve telecommunications and broadcasting resilience across Australia through its $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan – the most significant investment in regional communications since the creation of the National Broadband Network.
 
Other programs to improve the network resilience include the Commonwealth’s $20 million Broadcasting Resilience Program to safeguard ABC broadcast towers, and the $15 million Mobile Network Hardening Program, and the $50 million Telecommunications Disaster Resilience Innovation Program to deploy innovative solutions to address communications issues during natural disasters.
 
Applications close on 18 March 2024. MNOs and Mobile Network Infrastructure Providers can apply at grants.gov.au

For more information on PUMP, visit infrastructure.gov.au/pump  

NSW secures more renewable energy projects

Media Release from the NSW Minister for Energy and Climate Change

MEDIA RELEASE | 19 December 2023

Two additional renewable energy generation projects and 3 long-duration storage projects have been successful in the latest tender round of the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap, cementing the state’s position at the leading edge of investment in the national energy transition.

In the third tender delivered independently by AEMO Services, one solar project, 1 wind project, 2 lithium-ion battery energy storage system projects and 1 advanced-compressed air energy storage system have been awarded Long-Term Energy Service Agreements.

The projects will be built in Twelve Mile, Culcairn, Broken Hill, Merriwa and Myrtle Creek.

Each of the 3 storage projects have a continuous discharge capacity of at least 8 hours and collectively could power the Sydney Cricket Ground lights for around 130 days.

The successful projects represent $4.2 billion in private sector investment in the state’s renewable energy infrastructure, building upon the $4.3 billion in private sector investment committed in AEMO Services’ 2 previous tenders.

The 5 projects are expected to be operational from 2028 and will contribute to broader community and economic benefits, including support for an estimated 1000 jobs over the project lifetimes, $2 billion in local supply chain benefits, $40 million towards First Nations initiatives and enough generation to power 360,000 NSW homes per year.

Following the outcome of this third tender, NSW has now locked in 5.79 GW – almost half – of its legislated 12 GW renewable target for generation. It confirms 574 MW of the legislated 2 GW target for long-duration storage.

Regional Development Act 2004 Review

Regional communities have grown and changed a lot over the past decade, and we need to update how the government invests in regional NSW.

We want to be sure we are supporting regional development in a fair and equitable way, and guarantee we are doing everything we can to be transparent and accountable to the people of NSW in how we spend public funds.

The NSW Government is undertaking a review of the Regional Development Act 2004 to identify priorities for regional communities, establish how the government will work with these communities to improve outcomes and the approach to identify areas for future investment.

We want to hear from all members of the NSW community. Your feedback will help inform how the Government supports the sustainable growth of regional NSW now and into the future.

Please read the Issues Paper before completing the survey or uploading a submission.

2023 Australian Skills Classification Update

The Australian Skills Classification helps define the skills that underpin jobs in Australia. The 2023 update of the Australian Skills Classification (the Classification) is now available.

The Classification identifies three types of skills for every occupation: specialist tasks, technology tools and core competencies. Similar specialist tasks are grouped together into skills clusters, which are further grouped into skills cluster families.

You can explore the data by skills cluster or by occupation. See the Downloads tab for resources such as the latest data set and reports providing detailed information on the Classification and the methodology. The Similar Occupations tab features an application of the Classification.