HAVE YOUR SAY: Residents invited to provide feedback for housing needs in Griffith

Media release shared from https://www.griffith.nsw.gov.au/residents-invited-to-have-their-say-on-housing-needs-in-griffith

Griffith City Council invites residents to have their say and help shape our region’s housing future.

Griffith is growing, and the demand for diverse housing options across our region is becoming increasingly evident. To ensure we meet the evolving needs of our community, Council has engaged consultants, PSA Consulting, to conduct a comprehensive review of the Griffith Housing Strategy, originally prepared in 2019.

Council’s Economic Development Coordinator, Karly Sivewright, is urging all Griffith residents to share their thoughts and insights on how Council can effectively plan for housing growth and change in our community.

“Your feedback will play a crucial role in identifying community priorities and shaping the discussions that will guide the future of housing in our region,” Ms Sivewright said.

“We encourage everyone to take a few minutes to complete the survey and share their views on housing in Griffith.”

The survey is a valuable opportunity for residents to voice their opinions on a range of housing-related topics. The insights gathered will help Council develop a new housing strategy that aligns with the needs and desires of our community, ensuring that Griffith continues to be a great place to live, work, and thrive.

The survey is quick and easy to complete, taking only a few minutes. Whether you're a homeowner, renter, or looking to move to the area, your voice matters in this important process.
Participate in the survey using this link https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CV7PHHW

Feedback from this survey, together with comments received from the Griffith Worker and Housing Shortage Taskforce Draft Report on Strategies to Increase Housing Supply - August 2024, which is now on exhibition, will help in this review process.

For further information, please contact ed@griffith.nsw.gov.au

Federal funding now available to regional airports

Source: https://minister.infrastructure.gov.au/c-king/media-release/federal-funding-now-available-regional-airports

Media Release - The Hon Catherine King MP

Regional airports and aerodromes can now apply for a share in $25 million in funding for vital upgrades under Round 4 of the Regional Airports Program.

The Albanese Government recognises the critical role aviation plays for regional communities in providing essential services such as health care, education and freight.

We added two additional grant rounds with $40 million of funding in the 2024-25 Budget, to enable an additional two grant rounds.

Eligible projects can include upgrades to runways, drainage, lighting, fencing, navigation and safety training.

Under Round 4, in addition to safety and access works, funding can be used for projects that will help with the transition to net zero in aviation.

This includes technology such as electric chargers and hydrogen fuel storage for aircraft use.

Grants from $20,000 to $7.5 million are available to cover up to 50 per cent of eligible costs for each project.

I look forward to Round 4 supporting regional Australia by providing jobs, improved connectivity, and lasting benefits for communities such as better access to aeromedical and other emergency services. 

Better connections between regions and cities will also help promote the growth and prosperity of Australia’s regions into the future. 

Nearly $100 million has been made available under the previous three rounds of the program, supporting 194 projects.

I encourage owners or operators of existing aerodromes and airports in regional Australia to take a look at the guidelines and consider applying to make their priority upgrades a reality.

Applications open from 8 October 2024 and will close on 18 November 2024.

For more information on the Round 4 guidelines, visit: https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/regional-airports-program-round-4

3G Network Closing October 28 2024

Image and text source: https://amta.org.au/3g-closure/

The national 3G network is closing to boost the speed and reliability of the 4G and 5G networks.

Telstra will close their 3G network from 28 October 2024. Read more here.

Optus will close their 3G network from 28 October 2024. Read more here.

TPG Telecom/Vodafone has already closed their 3G mobile network as of January 2024. Read more here.

Devices that depend on the 3G network won’t work when it’s gone.

Impacted devices may include phones, smartwatches, tablets, in-home personal emergency alarms, EFTPOS terminals and fire and security alarms. You can view a list of impacted devices in our FAQs.

Check your tech and act, so you stay safe and connected.

– Check your mobile phone by texting “3” to the number ‘3498’ or by entering your IMEI into the ‘Check My Device’ tool here.

For all other devices, contact your service provider here.

Some 4G devices will be affected

Some early 4G handsets don’t support 4G voice calling, which means they use the 3G network, and after the closure these devices will not be able to make a call.

There are also a number of devices that support normal 4G voice calls, but force emergency calls (000) to 3G, so these phone calls won’t be able to make an emergency call (000) after the closure. Learn more.

Keeping you safe in an emergency 

To keep you safe, mobile phones must support Triple Zero (000) in the event of an emergency. This is a requirement for all phones sold in Australia. Older 3G phones, as well as some newer 4G/5G phones (that have been purchased overseas or from a retailer selling imported phones), do not meet these standards, once 3G closes. 

If you have one of these phones, it means you won’t be able to call Triple Zero (000) in the event of an emergency after the 3G networks close. 

Other devices, such as tablets, smartwatches, in-home personal emergency alarms, EFTPOS terminals and fire and security alarms, that depend on 3G for voice calls will also be unable to make Triple Zero (000) calls. If you have one of these devices it may not work properly after the 3G shutdown.  Learn more.

Record number of community groups share in regional funding boost

https://www.transgrid.com.au/media-publications/news-articles/record-number-of-community-groups-share-in-regional-funding-boost

A record number of community groups across regional NSW are set to thrive with much-needed funding following Transgrid’s latest round of its Community Partnerships Program.

The 61 community organisations that received grants are located across the state, including Armidale, Coleambally, Cootamundra, Deniliquin, Hay, Junee, Moulamein, Tumbarumba, Uranquinty, Wagga Wagga, Wentworth and Yass.

Funding has been provided to emergency services, Indigenous organisations, sport and recreation clubs, preschools, health and wellbeing initiatives, show societies, progress associations and environmental groups.

Executive General Manager of Corporate & Stakeholder Affairs Maryanne Graham said: “Transgrid has been a part of local communities for many decades through our existing network and we’re also working hard to support the local communities in areas where new transmission infrastructure is under development to enable the clean energy transition.

“Not-for profit groups are the lifeblood of local communities and we’re proud to support their invaluable work with much-needed funding for facilities, services, events and activities which make a positive difference to the lives of local residents and leave a meaningful legacy.”

Read the full article and see the full list of recipients on Transgrid’s website.

Applications for the 2024 Innovate with nbn Grants Program closing soon

Now in its fifth year, the initiative aims to help regional based businesses and individuals transform their great ideas into game-changing achievements.

Run in partnership with the Regional Australia Institute (RAI), the Innovate with nbn Grants Program is part of our commitment to lift the digital capability of people and business in regional Australia.

Last year we received many applications from businesses right across regional Australia who are doing wonderful things digitally enabled through the nbn.

There is $125,000 in total funding up for grabs to support regional and remote businesses drive the development and adoption of their ideas.

Across seven categories – Agriculture, Arts, Education, Health, Indigenous Business, Tourism, and Women in Regional Business – each winner receives $15,000.

The overall Innovate with nbn Champion will be awarded an additional $20,000 grant to help take their idea to the next level.

We are looking for businesses that are harnessing the benefits of the nbn network to develop products or solutions that improve digital participation, productivity or social outcomes for regional and remote Australians.

The closing date for applications is midnight Sunday 29th September.

For more information and to apply visit nbnco.com.au/innovatewithnbn

RDA Riverina Strategic Priorities 2024/2025

Please see below the refreshed Strategic Priorities for the 2024/2025 year, recently endorsed by the RDA Riverina Board.

Riverina Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) - Survey

Regional Development Australia (RDA) Riverina are conducting research into the availability of Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) services in our region.

Do you run an Early Childhood Education and Care service?

This survey is for ECEC professionals and focuses on the workforce needs of your service and the impact of any workforce shortages.

If you are a director or nominated supervisor of an ECEC service in the Riverina, please fill in this survey to share your organisation's experiences. 

Are you a parent seeking an Early Childhood Education and Care service?

This survey is for parents and guardians using, waiting for or unable to access ECEC services in the region.

This survey focuses on the availability of services and the impact availability has on a family’s ability to participate in the region’s workforce. 

The information collected in these surveys will be de-identified and complied into our report on ECEC availability in the Riverina which will be used to advocate for communities across our region.

We invite you to share this survey with any other ECEC professionals, parents and guardians in your networks.

The Growing Regions Program—Round 2 is now open for applications

Media release by The Hon Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government

Thursday 05 September 2024

https://minister.infrastructure.gov.au/c-king/media-release/applications-open-albanese-governments-regional-funding-program

Applications open for Albanese Government's regional funding program

Applications are now open for community infrastructure projects to seek funding under the second round of the Albanese Government’s $600 million Growing Regions Program. 

For Round 2, $393 million in funding is available to invest in community infrastructure projects across regional and rural Australia. 

The program provides funding for capital works projects such as libraries, parks, multi-purpose community centres, and sport and cultural facilities that enhance liveability, bolster social cohesion and support local amenity. 

As with Round 1, local government entities and incorporated not-for-profit organisations are able to apply for funding of between $500,000 and $15 million through the program, with lower co-funding requirements in place to support First Nations Community Controlled Organisations and low rate-based councils.

Round 2 will have a single-stage application process, unlike Round 1 which had two stages. Feedback from the Australian National Audit Office review into the design of the program has also been incorporated into this new round. 

Potential applicants can check their initial eligibility to apply for the program by viewing the eligibility checklist published on my department’s website.

The program is open, competitive and merit-based, with a continued focus on integrity, transparency, accountability and collaboration – to ensure a fair process for Australia’s regions. 

The Albanese Government is committed to investing in our regions to create jobs and boost economic growth and productivity. 

Further information about the program and application process are available on my department’s website. Applications open at 9am, Thursday 5 September, 2024. 

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

“As a regional MP, I understand the impact that community infrastructure projects such as parks and town halls can have on building connection among locals, and how vital funding is to making them a reality.

“It’s why I’m proud to deliver the Growing Regions Program, funding 40 projects under our first round and now taking applications for our second. 

“We’ve taken time to overhaul Commonwealth grants funding to make it a fairer, more transparent process, and I encourage local councils and not-for-profits to apply.” 

Program expansion helps essential workers relocate to the Riverina

Successful program expanded to include Griffith, Leeton, Tumut, Temora and Wagga Wagga.

The NSW Government’s 'The Welcome Experience' is expanding across the Riverina, after a successful pilot in Griffith delivered by Regional Development Australia Riverina (RDA Riverina).

This initiative, which has already seen success in Griffith since its launch in July 2023, is designed to help essential workers settle into the region with free personalised support.

Essential workers (and their families) who are considering applying for or have accepted a job in regional NSW are linked with a ‘Local Connector’ from the community who provides advice, introductions and support throughout the whole relocation process.

Since the program began, 44 individuals and their families — working in health, education, police and fire and rescue — have already made the move to Griffith, and with 1800 enquiries received across New South Wales in the previous 12 months, this number is expected to grow.

The expansion has been welcomed by regional employers including Murrumbidgee Local Health District. Melanie Reeves, Murrumbidgee Health & Knowledge Precinct Manager, stated, “We are thrilled to see the Welcome Experience successfully extended across more areas within the Murrumbidgee Health and Knowledge Precinct. This initiative not only highlights our region's appeal but also plays a crucial role in increasing our healthcare workforce.

"We are especially pleased to witness the positive impact it has had in attracting more professionals to move here, strengthening our community and enhancing the quality of care we can provide. It’s a testament to our commitment to making the Riverina and Southern NSW not just a place to work but a place to thrive."

RDA Riverina is one of 14 host agencies responsible for facilitating The Welcome Experience in NSW, which will now be available in Griffith, Leeton, Tumut, Temora and Wagga Wagga.

Dianna Somerville, Chair of RDA Riverina said “Having participated in the Pilot Program in Griffith, RDA Riverina has seen first-hand the positive impact this program has had on our communities.

"Local people providing local solutions and local knowledge is a good outcome for our region, it allows our communities to build a collaborative approach to attracting and retaining professionals in our towns and cities.

"I welcome the NSW government’s investment into expanding the program and look forward to expanding our footprint to include more towns across the Riverina”.

The Welcome Experience is part of the NSW Government’s $25.1 million Essential Worker Attraction Program, which aims to boost essential workforces in regional NSW.

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said The Welcome Experience pilot program has been a major success since it launched in June last year, supporting over 511 workers and their families to relocate to regional New South Wales. “Moving to a new town can be daunting, but the feedback we receive from workers is that having a host agency like RDA Riverina to offer a warm welcome and local advice, significantly increases their likelihood of staying and contributing to their community long term,” said Ms Moriarty.

“We’ve had close to 1800 enquiries from a range of essential workers considering making the move, and this demand for tailored relocation support is one of the key reasons The Welcome Experience has been such a phenomenal success so far.”

“The NSW Government’s recent decision to expand the program to 52 Local Government Areas across the state reaffirms our commitment to regional communities by ensuring they receive the skilled and robust workforce they need.”

Rachel Whiting, CEO of RDA Riverina said “we are excited to be able to now extend the successful pilot from Griffith to other locations in the Riverina and we look forward to working with community, government agencies employing essential workers, local government and business to assist our region in welcoming and settling newcomers.”

If you or someone you know is considering a move to the Riverina, or if you're curious about how The Welcome Experience can support new residents, be sure to check out the details at NSW Government Welcome Experience or reach out to po@rdriverina.org.au.

What is The Welcome Experience? 

The Welcome Experience is a free service supporting essential workers (and their families) who are considering applying for or have accepted a job in regional NSW. 

The program aims to help essential workers feel more at home in their new communities sooner by helping them to settle and establish connections and relationships with personalised support. Following the success of the pilot program, The Welcome Experience is being rolled out to 50 local government areas across regional NSW. 

Local Connectors in each location provide essential workers with advice and support in the decision to relocate and help the transition into their new town. 

How will The Welcome Experience help attract and retain essential workers to regional areas?

Relocating to a regional area can be a daunting experience. 
The Welcome Experience aims to make the transition as seamless as possible for essential workers by removing some of the barriers and challenges of moving to a new town. 

By linking essential workers with a Local Connector before the move, the program aims to arm essential workers with local knowledge to help inform decisions about where to live, childcare, schools, and healthcare.
 
Local Connectors will also link essential workers and their families to clubs, teams, and community groups to help them make friends and form connections.
 
Evidence has found that by better preparing and supporting new arrivals to integrate into community, essential workers will be more likely to move to, and stay longer, in regional communities.

Why is this service needed in this location?

It is important that regional communities have access to high quality support services, and essential workers are the backbone of these services.
 
RDA Riverina is proud to be able to offer the support of The Welcome Experience across the Riverina to help attract and retain essential workers in our community to ensure our services run smoothly and efficiently.

How many essential workers are likely to benefit?
During the 12-month pilot program, The Welcome Experience helped over 500 essential workers and their families move to the initial eight regional locations and received over 1800 enquiries.
 
Now that the program has been expanded to include 50 locations across regional NSW, we hope to help even more essential workers find their feet in their new communities. 

What sort of essential workers does The Welcome Experience support?

Employees of the following industries are eligible for The Welcome Experience:

• Education workers, including Department of Education and Training employees who work in a school, TAFE or university, teachers at Catholic and Independent schools, and Early Childhood Education workers

• Healthcare workers including nurses, allied health professionals, ambulance staff, visiting medical officers, specialists, Aboriginal Medical Service staff, general practitioners, aged care staff and disability support workers.

• NSW Police Force employees

• NSW Fire and Rescue employees

• Department of Communities and Justice employees including child protection workers, corrections officers and staff working in a courthouse.
  

Challenge aims to ‘supercharge’ innovation in agri-renewables

Media release shared from: https://racefor2030.com.au/6947-2/

Food Agility, Charles Sturt University and RACEfor 2030 CRC are launching the Australian Agri-Renewables Innovation Challenge, offering significant investment and support to fast-track new technologies and services.

Applications are now open around the themes of energy, chemicals and fertilisers, and agricultural waste
and residues.

Charles Sturt University will provide one third co-investment for successful applicants or ‘challengers’ from a $2 million investment pool.

Charles Sturt AgriPark Executive Director Nick Pagett said the challenge is designed to help overcome some of the barriers to development and innovation.

“Along with access to funding, ‘challengers’, will be able to demonstrate, validate, and fine tune their innovation and business model at the Renewables in Agriculture Centre of Excellence and Global Digital Farm,” Mr Pagett said. “The collaborative and integrated commercial farm setting means there’s access to feedstock, subject matter experts, lab facilities and support to supercharge development of agri-renewable solutions.”

Director of the Renewables in Agriculture Centre of Excellence, Steve Summerhayes said the focus of the Challenge is supporting technology and service development to give farmers access to innovative ways to reduce energy costs and emissions.

“We want to unlock the significant and unrealised potential of renewables in agriculture to power regional economies and support food security, productivity, resilience and sustainability,” Mr Summerhayes explained. “We’re calling on innovators to enter the challenge so we can showcase, test and scale-up their
agri-renewable solutions.”

RACE for 2030 CRC CEO Dr Bill Lilley, said the Australian Agri-Renewables Innovation Challenge is a powerful catalyst for transforming regional economies anchored around the agricultural sector.

“RACE for 2030 supports innovative industry partners to bring solutions that reduce emissions and energy costs for regional communities,” Dr Lilley said. “We are interested in holistic solutions including various forms of storage, energy production, and flexible operations which enable farmers to reap the economic benefits of our changing energy systems.”

Technology and service providers can find out more about the Agri-Renewables Innovation Challenge at an information session on Tuesday 3 September. Submissions are open until the 11 October, with entries reviewed by a panel of expert judges.

Successful ‘challengers’ will be announced at the Digital Agrifood Summit in October.

Community groups benefit from ClubGRANTS program

Excerpt from: https://news.wagga.nsw.gov.au/news-articles/2024/august-2024/community-groups-to-benefit-from-clubgrants-program?mc_cid=4e91085c60&mc_eid=ff47439e78

Eighteen local community groups and charities will share in a combined $155,693.50 in funding for projects and initiatives through the 2024 ClubGRANTS scheme.

The successful recipients were announced at a presentation ceremony at the Rules Club Wagga Wagga on Thursday morning (22 August).

Wagga Wagga City Council Director Community Janice Summerhayes said the ClubGRANTS scheme is a state-wide initiative providing the framework for registered clubs to directly fund local priority projects and services.

“Council coordinates the local ClubGRANTS committee, comprising representatives from the Wagga RSL Club, Rules Club Wagga Wagga, Department of Communities and Justice, and a local community representative,” Ms Summerhayes said.

Read the full story and see the list of recipients here.

Australian Government's Aviation White Paper Released

Excerpt from: https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure-transport-vehicles/aviation/aviation-white-paper

The Aviation White Paper sets out the Australian Government’s vision for Australia’s aviation sector towards 2050 to ensure it remains safe, competitive, productive and sustainable.

As a nation, Australia is uniquely reliant on aviation to connect us to each other and to the world. Despite its importance to our nation, the sector is not currently meeting the needs of Australians. The White Paper sets out a comprehensive plan to bring Australian aviation back on the right flight path.

The White Paper and the development of its 56 policy initiatives was informed by extensive consultation on the Aviation Green Paper with the aviation industry, state and territory governments, and the Australian community. These 56 policy initiatives cover 10 key areas including:

• a better passenger experience

• a competitive and efficient aviation sector

• a skilled, secure and productive workforce

• maximising aviation’s contribution to net zero

• connecting regional Australia

• regenerating General Aviation

• a balanced approach to airport planning and noise

• world leading safety, security and airspace regulation

• enabling new aviation technologies

• connecting Australia to the world 

Discover the Australian Government’s policy settings for the Australian aviation sector by reading the Aviation White Paper.

The White Paper announced the establishment of a new independent Aviation Industry Ombuds Scheme for Australia. A consultation paper on the design and implementation of an Aviation Industry Ombuds Scheme is currently open for comment. For more information about the consultation, visit: Establishing the Aviation Industry Ombuds Scheme.

Telstra to keep 3G network running until 28 October 2024

Shared from: https://www.telstra.com.au/exchange/3g-network-closure-extended

We have decided to extend our 3G network closure by another two months to allow people more time to upgrade their devices. We will close our 3G network from 28 October 2024.

Connectivity is becoming more and more important to the way we all live and work, and we are excited to help all Australians transition to 4G and 5G mobile networks which are faster, more reliable, and more resilient. 

But we have to make sure everyone is ready to make this transition together – and we know some of our customers are still working through the steps they need to take to upgrade their devices. That’s why we’ve decided to provide more time and further support.

You must upgrade your 3G device

If your device is 3G only, if it does not support Voice over 4G (VoLTE), or if it is 4G enabled but hardwired to use 3G for Emergency calls, then you need to upgrade before the 3G closure to stay connected.

This will also affect medical devices and other hardware connected to our 3G network, from EFTPOS terminals to farm machinery. 

If you’re not sure if you will be impacted or what to do, you can SMS ‘3’ to 3498 and we’ll tell you if your handset needs to be updated.

For other connected devices, please reach out to the supplier or manufacturer for more information. We are always a phone call away if you need further support or are facing challenging financial or other circumstances. We’ll work with you to find the best solution.

Soon, customers yet to upgrade will hear a short message on impacted mobiles when you make an outgoing call, as a reminder that you need to act. This pre-recorded message will only be removed once you’ve upgraded.

It's important you act now

While there is now a little more time, please don’t delay. Our 3G network is closing soon, and it is important you act now. If you’re still using an impacted device after 28 October, you won’t be able to call Triple Zero for Emergency help.

We have been making good progress on modernising our 3G network sites with new 4G and 5G antennas and radio hardware, with 99 percent of upgrades now complete.

We made an absolute commitment to expand our 4G coverage to be equivalent to existing 3G coverage across the country before we close the 3G network, and we are on track to meet that.

Moving off 3G is a big leap forward

After upgrades are complete, we will continue to test and optimise the network to make sure all our customers get the best experience possible.

Moving customers onto 4G and 5G services will mean a big leap forward for mobile connectivity across Australia. It will allow us to repurpose the 3G spectrum so we can extend our 5G network and create a more reliable network and a better experience for our customers. 

Closing Australia’s 3G networks is a significant step that will lead to improved connectivity for the nation, so please act quickly to check your devices and upgrade today, or get in touch with us for help.

The Growing Regions Program - Round 2 Program Guidelines now available

Source: https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/regional-australia/regional-and-community-programs/growing-regions-program

The Growing Regions Program - Round 2 Program Guidelines are now available for eligible applicants to start preparing applications ahead of the upcoming opening of Round 2 for applications. Potential applicants can check their initial eligibility to apply before applications open. Further information on the application process, including application forms, will be provided when applications open.

The Australian Government has committed $600 million over three years, commencing in 2023-24 for the Growing Regions Program to deliver investment in infrastructure across Australia’s regional, rural and remote areas.

The program provides funding of between $500,000 and $15 million to local government entities and incorporated not-for-profit organisations for capital works projects that will enhance liveability, bolster social cohesion and support local amenity throughout Australia’s regions.

The program is an open competitive program with funding awarded on a merit basis.

As part of the Round 2 application process, applicants will be required to complete an initial online eligibility checklist to confirm eligibility, project readiness and program suitability.

Applicants that meet the eligibility requirements will be able to submit a full application when applications open. Further information on the application and assessment process is outlined in the Program Guidelines.

Applications for Round 2 will open 5 September 2024 and close 10 October 2024.

Click the button below for more in depth information and to check your eligibility.

Flights guaranteed for regional Rex customers

Media release by The Hon Catherine King MP

Thursday 15 August 2024

https://minister.infrastructure.gov.au/c-king/media-release/flight-guaranteed-regional-rex-customers

The Albanese Government has today announced it will guarantee regional flight bookings for Rex customers throughout the voluntary administration process. 

Travellers can continue to book regional flights on Rex during this process with certainty that they will either fly or get their money back. 

Rex operates one of Australia’s largest regional air networks and provides essential connectivity to move people and critical freight on 41 routes to regional and remote communities, including 21 routes that are only serviced by Rex.  

Rex’s continuation is in the best interests of Australia – and the Government is working closely with the administrators to ensure a strong regional aviation presence now and into the future.

The guarantee is for all regional flight bookings with Rex made after it entered voluntary administration at 9:31pm on 30 July 2024.

This will give customers confidence to continue booking regional flights with Rex – flights that allow them stay connected to family, friends, healthcare and other services – while also helping to maintain regional aviation in Australia.

My department will continue to work with the administrator on their plans for the continuation of services to regional communities.

We also expect the administrator to honour and prioritise the entitlements of Rex employees. 

This guarantee is a message to regional Australia that we know how important reliable air services are to you and that we are not going to allow your communities to be left behind.

Have your say about Wagga Wagga's future

Shared from https://joemcgirr.com.au/news/2024/8/4/have-your-say-and-help-shape-our-future

The Wagga Wagga community is encouraged to help direct the region’s future by having a say in a survey defining the issues, opportunities and challenges facing the electorate. 

 The survey, conducted by the Independent Member for Wagga, Dr Joe McGirr, is gathering feedback that can be used to advocate for changes and improvements. 

  So far, more than 600 people have had their say with the following issues leading the responses. 

•   Cost of living 

• Affordable and reliable energy 

• Housing supply and affordability, and 

• Better, safer roads  

Dr McGirr thanked the respondents and urged others to share their thoughts.

“The survey so far has given a great snapshot of what we’re doing well and what we can do better but I’m keen to get even more responses over a wider demographic range so that I can advocate for improvements that reflect the wishes of the broader community,” he said. 
 

“We’ve had a terrific response from older people but I’m hoping to also hear more younger voices so that I can better incorporate their hopes and concerns to deliver changes that will benefit them for decades to come. 

 “I was very fortunate to get feedback from young people during the recent NSW Parliament Bicentenary Roadshow in Wagga, in which access to safe places after hours, police presence in small communities, mental health and medical services, safety information on drugs and transport were identified as areas of concern for the young. 

  “But I encourage people of all ages to add to this bank of valuable knowledge by taking a few moments to complete our survey.” 
 

Other data collected so far includes: 
 

• 61 per cent believe there is insufficient housing variety to suit local needs 

• 72 per cent feel safe in their community ‘most of the time’, and 

• 81 per cent would like the State Government to do more to reduce domestic violence 
   

The survey remains open until 20 September and can be accessed at https://joemcgirr.com.au/annual-survey 

  “Community views really will help to shape our future, so I urge everyone to take the survey online or call into my office for a hard copy of the form and have a say on the things that matter,” Dr McGirr said. 

Delivering priority projects in Wagga Wagga

Media release | Thursday 08 August 2024

The Hon Kristy McBain MP, Minister for Regional Development and Local Government

Joint Release with

Cr Dallas Tout, Mayor of Wagga Wagga

https://minister.infrastructure.gov.au/mcbain/media-release/delivering-priority-projects-wagga-wagga

The Albanese Government is partnering with Wagga Wagga City Council to deliver targeted transport and community infrastructure projects that will have a lasting impact.

Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain MP, visited town today to inspect the progress of projects, and to discuss the region’s priorities.

As part of the Government’s commitment to improve road safety, over $18 million is flowing to Wagga Wagga City Council over the next five years under the Roads to Recovery (RTR) program – a boost of $7.7 million thanks to the Albanese Government.

This will fund a pipeline of future road improvements across the Wagga region, adding to RTR projects already completed – such as surface upgrades on Copland Street, Norton Street and Travers Street.

Through Phase 4 of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program, Wagga Wagga City Council is receiving over $3.2 million for local priority projects.

This supported upgrades to the surface of Byrnes Road – the main link between Wagga and Junee, with the $200,000 project completed earlier this year – fully funded by the Albanese Government.

Construction of a new steel and concrete structure to replace the ageing timber bridge on Killicks Road is currently underway and set for completion mid-next year – with the $412,000 LRCI project fully funded by the Albanese Government.

Wagga Wagga City Council is also a successful applicant under Round 1 of the Growing Regions program, with $4.4 million in Australian Government funding to go towards the development of the Lake Albert Water Sports and Event Precinct – funding that will be matched by Council.

This project will transform one of Wagga’s most popular recreational sites, ensuring that Lake Albert has a consistently high water level to support a variety of water sports and events year round.

As part of the Government’s commitment to help local governments turbocharge planning to deliver more homes sooner, $420,000 is being delivered to Wagga Wagga City Council under Stream 1 of the Housing Support Program.

This will support the Council’s Smaller Scale Second Home Initiative, which will encourage uptake of secondary dwellings on existing residential blocks.

Nationally, the Albanese Government is delivering significant funding increases to support local councils progress their priority projects. 

The Roads to Recovery program is progressively increasing from $500 million to $1 billion per year, the Black Spot Program is increasing to $150 million per year, and $50 million has been added to the new $200 million per year Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain MP:

“It was fantastic to visit the Wagga region and see upgrades to road safety and community infrastructure progressing, with significant funding increases from the Albanese Government supporting a pipeline of future works.

“This is a region that’s fast-growing and it’s important that all levels of government are rowing in the same direction, which is why I’ll continue to work with Wagga Wagga City Council to support the delivery of their priority projects.”

Quotes attributable to Mayor of Wagga Wagga, Dallas Tout:

“The City of Wagga Wagga is responsible for delivering critical services to a large region, which is why it’s important to partner across levels of government to ensure our community receives the support and funding we need and deserve.

“We welcome the Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery program in particular, boosting much-needed funding for us to deliver safety improvements to Wagga’s road network, which will benefit those in our community that drive on our roads daily.”

The Bureau of Meteorology is building a new website

Know how your day is going to change beat by beat. The Bureau of Meteorology is building a new website.

Everyone can now access beta.bom.gov.au.  This test website will run alongside the existing bom.gov.au website. No changes will be made to the existing services.

This soft launch will give you an opportunity to preview the new features that will be available:

·       explore beta.bom.gov.au from your mobile, tablet or laptop

·       choose the types of weather that you want to see in the new weather map 

·       save a list of your favourite locations  

·       customise your home page experience. 

The Bureau of Meteorology understands how important this website is to keep everyone up to date and inform their decision making. During the testing phase, bom.gov.au will remain the primary website and the source of critical warning information, climate data and sector-specific weather services.

Learn more: Website Help

Applications open to help suburbs thrive

Media release by The Hon Catherine King MP

Saturday 27 July 2024

https://minister.infrastructure.gov.au/c-king/media-release/applications-open-help-suburbs-thrive

The Albanese Government is investing in cities and suburbs across Australia, with applications opening today for the $350 million Thriving Suburbs Program.

The program provides access to funding for community infrastructure projects such as libraries, parks, and sporting and cultural facilities in urban, suburban and peri-urban communities – projects that connect communities and enrich quality of life at a local level.

Local government entities and incorporated not-for-profit organisations can apply for grants between $500,000 and $15 million to cover up to 50 per cent of eligible project costs, with lower co-funding requirements in place for First Nations Community Controlled Organisations and low rate-based councils.

The program is designed to build better cities and more liveable suburbs, targeting projects that grow local economies and enhance social inclusion. 

The Albanese Labor Government is committed to delivering the infrastructure required to create strong and vibrant communities, and we know how vital programs like this are to making local projects a reality in areas where they are needed most. 

We are also delivering on our commitment to establish a new suburban funding program focused on integrity, transparency, accountability and collaboration – to ensure a fair process for our Australian cities. 

This will help address a decade of neglect for our cities and suburbs by the previous Liberal and Nationals Government who put politics before local priorities.

The Thriving Suburbs Program will be open and competitive, with projects awarded on a merit basis, supported by a two-stage assessment process.

An eligibility checklist has been published on my department’s website to assist potential applicants. 

Further information and Program Guidelines are available on the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts website or to apply visit https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/thriving-suburbs-program

Rex enters voluntary administration

Media release by The Hon Catherine King MP

Wednesday 31 July 2024

https://minister.infrastructure.gov.au/c-king/media-release/rex-enters-voluntary-administration

Overnight it was announced that Regional Express Holdings and a number of its subsidiaries have entered voluntary administration.

Samuel Freeman, Justin Walsh and Adam Nikitins of Ernst & Young Australia (EY Australia) have been appointed Joint and Several Voluntary Administrators by the Rex Group’s respective Boards of Directors. 

My department has been engaging with EY overnight and further conversations will take place today. 

Rex is an important airline for regional and remote communities and Rex’s continuation is in the best interests of regional Australians, the travelling public, its workers and the aviation sector.

The Government will work closely with the administrator to determine a path forward that ensures regional aviation has a strong future in this country.

In the short term, we have engaged with a number of airports to seek their continued support for Rex and I encourage all stakeholders,  customers, and commercial partners to remain supportive as Rex works through this process.

This will obviously be a distressing time for employees of Rex and it is important the administrators provide timely advice to staff who have been affected. 

Both Virgin and Qantas have  said they will look into opportunities to support Rex workers affected by today’s announcement.

I understand that the administrator is also speaking directly with employee representatives.

For Rex customers, the administrator has advised my department that:

• they plan for all regional flights to continue as scheduled. 

• all Rex domestic flights between major cities are cancelled – however, advice from Rex is that customers can rebook through Virgin Australia at no extra cost (subject to terms and conditions) by contacting Virgin Australia on 13 67 89 or http://www.virginaustralia.com.  

The Qantas Group has also advised that Rex customers impacted by cancelled flights due to the grounding of their domestic jet services can contact Qantas and Jetstar to be reaccommodated on the same route as their original booking at no charge, where seats are available. 

Customers with an impacted Rex booking can contact Jetstar via their Live Chat function or on 13 15 38 and Qantas on 13 13 13 to make a booking.

Further information about these arrangements is available from www.rex.com.au