A wave of cancellations is hitting hospitality businesses at great distances from the epicentre of an out-of-control bushfire as owners call for calm.The blaze in the western Victoria's Grampians National Park is expected to burn for weeks, but more than 40 kilometres away in Great Western, Bruce Ahchow has seen most of his motel reservations evaporate in a matter of days, along with all of his tours and events bookings."(In Great Western) we are far enough away and in a very, very safe zone in relation to the Grampian's National Park," Mr Ahchow told AAP.Four in five of his rooms are empty, at a time of year he would usually be fully booked.While alerts were crucial to protecting the community, he said sensationalised media reporting failed to report safe spots to travel."That is driving people away from a very, very large part of Victoria and all of the businesses that rely on those people are suffering and will suffer for a long time," Mr Ahchow said.Residents will be allowed to return home during a brief reprieve in fire conditions. (James Ross/AAP PHOTOS)Closer to the epicentre in Halls Gap, evacuated residents were given a two-hour window before lunchtime to return and collect their belongings before Christmas.Country Fire Authority chief officer Jason Heffernan hoped the access would give some festive normality to the community."(This is) to ensure if the residents of Halls Gap will be relocated for Christmas, at least they will have what they need," Mr Heffernan said.Cooler, milder conditions on Monday night helped firefighters on the ground get "some containment" of the southern Grampians fire, he said.Grampians Tourism chief executive Mark Sleeman said the fire was costing the economy $1.9 million per day."We're going to need some immediate intervention and financial support from both federal and state government to reignite our local visitor economy," he told AAP.On Christmas Day, Mr Sleeman's family will go to a safe place while he prepares to protect their home on Boxing Day, which the State Control Centre expects to bring the worst conditions since Black Summer five years ago.Bushfires continue to burn in the Grampians in Victoria's west, with residents warned to stay alert. (James Ross)"Any fire that starts on Thursday will be difficult for fire crews to control and has the potential to impact communities very, very quickly," the State Control Centre's Luke Hegarty said."Thursday is not a day where you should be travelling, unless absolutely necessary."Another bushfire at Bullengarook in Melbourne's northwest has been contained, while a blaze at the Gurdies in western Gippsland continues to burn.Holiday travellers are being warned to keep up to date with fire conditions as several states face growing bushfire risks.About 100 fire personnel from NSW, the ACT, Queensland and Tasmania are heading to Victoria to help battle the blazes.Firefighters in several states are preparing for challenging conditions on Boxing Day. (James Ross/AAP PHOTOS)Elsewhere in NSW, several small bush and grass fires continue to burn but remain under control, though a significant part of the state also faces high fire dangers on Boxing Day.South Australian firefighters urged residents to leave in the Onkaparinga Hills in the Mount Lofty Ranges as they battled an out-of-control bushfire on Monday.They later downgraded warnings, telling residents to monitor conditions.Regional areas across SA are expecting hot conditions on Boxing Day, with Adelaide facing a peak of 36C after a predicted 37C on Christmas Day.A "too late to leave" bushfire alert for residents near the wheatbelt town of Northam in Western Australia was issued on Monday night and remained in place on Tuesday.By Adrian Black, Holly Hales and William Ton in Melbourne

Sex Crimes Squad detectives have charged a priest with alleged child sex offences under Strike Force Trawler.Strike Force Trawler is an ongoing investigation by Sex Crimes Squad’s Child Exploitation Internet Unit (CEIU) into the sexual abuse and exploitation of children facilitated through the internet and related telecommunications devices.In December 2024, strike force detectives commenced an investigation into a religious leader allegedly grooming a 14-year-old boy online.About 12pm yesterday (Monday 23 December 2024), strike force detectives arrested a 77-year-old man in Pendle Hill.The man was taken to Granville Police Station, where he was charged with use carriage service-procure under 16 years for sex with another and use carriage service to send indecent material to person under 16.He was refused bail to appear in Parramatta Local Court today (Tuesday 24 December 2024).Investigations under Strike Force Trawler continue.

The NSW Government is working to enhance the safety of religious communities across NSW by making it easier for places of public worship to upgrade security.Changes being introduced by the NSW Government mean that places of public worship will no longer require a Development Application (DA) for most security upgrades.Everyone in NSW should have the right to worship at religious places without fear of threats or intimidation.Unfortunately, however, scenes of division have been seen in NSW, including outside the Great Synagogue only weeks ago.The Places of Worship 2024 State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) amendment will allow all places of worship, including churches, mosques and synagogues, to install bollards, fencing, lighting, security cameras, safety glass and reinforced doors through an exempt planning pathway, removing the need for DAs.The amendment will support more than 3,900 churches, 167 mosques and 25 synagogues to immediately begin upgrading security without the need for lengthy planning approvals.This is in addition to reforms being considered by the NSW Government that would regulate protests outside religious institutions and places of worship that aim to intimidate or prevent religious people from practising their faith in NSW.Chris Minns, Premier of New South Wales, said, “Places of worship should be sanctuaries of peace and safety. We are working to ensure all people can worship freely without fear. These changes will make that possible.”“This decision follows several recent incidents of vandalism and arson against religious buildings in the state, highlighting the urgent need for heightened security.”“Sadly, these steps are necessary to enable security upgrades to public places of worship, without the need for planning approval, so that all of our people can attend their chosen place of worship freely and safely.”Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said, “All community and religious groups have the right to feel safe, and these planning measures will speed up the process to help protect all places of worship from those who seek to damage them.“These security measures help to improve safety, as well as deter people who commit the kind of divisive acts the community has experienced in recent weeks.“It is about sending a clear message to our religious communities that the NSW Government supports your rights to practice your beliefs while making it safer for all of us to enjoy our unique places of worship.”Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said, “Our state is a successful multicultural and multifaith society. But it is important that we don’t take these freedoms for granted. We must work to protect our diversity by protecting the right to religious freedom. “These exemptions have been put in place to make sure all people who chose to attend a place of worship are protected and can safely practice their religious beliefs alongside their families and communities.”

The first businesses have been added to a new name and shame register set up by the Minns Labor Government to highlight poor environmental practices.The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has issued public warnings to Carbon MF Pty Ltd and Sams Maintenance and Pest Control Pty Ltd and has added them to the new register on the EPA website. The register is designed to warn and protect the public.The powers were introduced by the NSW Government in April this year under changes to the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 (POEO Act). The changes also doubled penalties for environmental crimes and increased powers to deter repeat offenders and make polluters pay.In addition to naming the two businesses, the public warning register also lists directors, related business names and aliases due to ongoing concerns about their business practices. The two businesses added to the register are:Carbon MF Pty Ltd, its sole director, Mark Fair and related business aliases.The company and Mr Fair were fined $582,375 by the Land and Environment Court in November 2023 after the EPA prosecuted them for land pollution and failing to comply with a clean-up notice to remove used tyres stored in a warehouse.The community is asked to be aware that Mr Fair continues to offer waste tyre services that may breach environment protection legislation.Sams Maintenance and Pest Control Pty Ltd, its sole director Narbjeet Singh and associated businesses.The EPA is investigating an incident where a pesticide was used by an unidentified pest technician at a house in Sydney’s east, which has caused permanent damage to the premises. EPA investigations have found that payment for this service was made to Sams Maintenance.Several complaints have been made to government agencies in NSW and Queensland concerning this company and associated businesses, alleging fraudulent behaviour and other concerning business practices.Public warnings are issued when there is a clear public interest in providing information on individuals, businesses or activities that may present a risk to the environment.Listing the warnings on the new register means we can provide vital information to the community and industry to help them make informed choices about who they do business with.To see the public warnings visit: https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/newsroom/public-warnings. Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe said, “Environmental offenders can damage our environment or the community, and there is a clear need for bad business practices to be called out.“The Minns Labor Government delivered on its election commitment to strengthen environmental protections in NSW, and we make no apology for naming and shaming environmental offenders who put our health and our environment at risk.” NSW Environment Protection Authority CEO Tony Chappel said, “Any business that breaches the conditions of its licence or conducts business in a way that endangers public safety or the environment should expect the EPA to take action.“We will continue to provide public warnings when there is a clear case to do so, alongside our other regulatory capabilities such as fines and prosecutions.”

The warning level for a mammoth bushfire creeping across Victoria's west has been downgraded as firefighters brace for sweltering conditions on Boxing Day.The blaze in Victoria's Grampians National Park has razed 34,000 hectares and remains out of control despite more than 300 firefighters battling to bring it to heel and secure containment lines before Thursday.Emergency warnings have shifted to "watch and act — not safe to return" for tourist hotspot Halls Gap and surrounding areas.More than 34,000 hectares have been burned by an out-of-control bushfire in the Grampians. Country Fire Authority deputy chief officer Garry Cook said ground and air crews were working to reduce the spread of the Yarram-Gap Road fire ahead of elevated weather conditions on December 26."As we look toward Boxing Day, firefighters are currently conducting back-burning operations to protect nearby towns and establish fire breaks," Mr Cook said."Boxing Day is a big travel day right across the state, so we urge those travelling to download the VicEmergeny App before you go."Melbourne is expected to roast to 39C on the public holiday with similar conditions slated for the Grampians, 270km west of the city.Authorities say it could take weeks to fully contain the fire ignited by a lightning strike earlier in the week and an emergency evacuation warning remains in place for several communities.The blaze tripled in size between Friday and Saturday due to high temperatures and strong winds. Firefighters are battling to bring a giant bushfire under control ahead of dangerous conditions. (HANDOUT/CFA)Similar conditions on Saturday night resulted in the inferno moving towards Halls Gap and Lake Bellfield.Incident controller Aaron Kennedy said the blaze was burning in very steep, difficult and dry terrain."Our ability to fight this fire directly is quite challenging," he said.Mr Kennedy agreed the fire risk was expected to spike on Thursday and be worsened by windy conditions forecast for the area."This will mean that we'll see again, potentially significant fire behaviour, and then increased growth of the fire across the landscape," he said."Our crews are working really hard to try and contain this fire prior to the Boxing Day weather event."Authorities say it could take weeks to fully contain the bushfire in the Grampians National Park. (HANDOUT/CFA)Mr Kennedy said two years of dry conditions in western Victoria, particularly in the Grampians National Park, meant fires spread quickly. The threat to the nearby communities of Lake Fyans, Pomonal, Mafeking and Watgania eased late on Saturday when emergency warnings were downgraded to watch and act, but not safe to return.Relief centres are open in Ararat and Stawell. The Grampians National Park is closed to visitors.A blaze at Bullengarook, northwest of Melbourne, was also downgraded to a watch and act.A bushfire in The Gurdies in South Gippsland was also downgraded to an advice warning.It's been a worrying start to the bushfire season in Australia. (HANDOUT/CFA)Firies in NSW and Western Australia have also battled multiple bushfires in the first weeks of summer.Temperatures in the high 30s and low 40s are expected to hit WA, including the wooded southwest of the state, over the weekend before pushing eastward.Elevated fire dangers are forecast for the south and midwest of WA with dry thunderstorms possible for western parts.Heatwave conditions are forecast for the state's midwest and the Kimberley and Pilbara regions.Moderate and extreme fire weather conditions are forecast for inland parts of NSW in the coming days, including the greater Sydney area.By Holly Hales and Aaron Bunch in Perth

The Federal Government released the draft Aviation Customer Rights Charter today for public consultation over the summer period. The Charter sets out the expectations of fair treatment by airlines and airports to their customers to ensure customers get what they pay for or get their money back.The federal government said:The Australian flying public deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, and this includes receiving timely and fair remedies when their flight is cancelled or delayed.That is exactly what this charter is about, providing clarity to consumers on their rights – giving them greater certainty about what they can expect, and where to go if these conditions are not met. The Charter proposes that customers have the right to:·       be treated with dignity and respect, in an accessible and inclusive environment;·       accurate, timely and accessible information and customer service;·       prompt and fair remedies and support during and after cancellations, delays and disruptions;·       safe and timely baggage handling and fair remedies for damage and delays·       the protection of their personal information;·       provide feedback, make complaints and exercise their rights without retribution.The Charter was one of the landmark commitments of the 2024 Aviation White Paper; it will be a first for Australia after years of increasing customer dissatisfaction in domestic aviation. It has been informed by submissions received through the Aviation White Paper process, as well as feedback from customers and industry about the standards of service currently being experienced across the aviation sector.I encourage the flying public, industry and other stakeholders to give their feedback on the draft charter before submissions close at 5pm on Friday, 28 February 2025.Find out more, and have your say, by visiting www.infrastructure.gov.au/Aviation-Rights-Charter.

News that the Minns Government is going to trial pill testing at up to a dozen music festivals this summer is welcome, but trials must be in place for the festival blitz that commences on Boxing Day, says Greens MP and drug harm reduction spokesperson Cate Faehrmann.Further, continuing to have an over-the-top police presence with sniffer dogs and strip-searching tents is an irresponsible use of taxpayers' money when music festivals have pill-testing facilities.“The Health Minister says that the trial could be up and running by ‘early February’. This is too late because most of the music festivals taking place this summer will go ahead without pill testing services,” said Cate Faehrmann.“With festivals like Lost Paradise, Field Day, and Spaced Out in Byron Bay taking place in late December and early January, along with New Year's Eve and the holidays, most of the larger summer festivals will have concluded by early February.“The Government was warned about the increasing risk of highly dangerous synthetic opioids being found in common street drugs like cocaine and MDMA at the start of the year. They also knew that allowing drug-checking services, including at music festivals, would be a key recommendation arising from the drug summit. “The Health Minister has received proposals by experienced pill testing services who are ready to set up with qualified health professionals within days. They’re operating in other states so it’s not that hard to get their services in NSW at the time when they’re needed the most. “Where drug checking services are provided in the ACT, Qld, and Victoria, they’re also being located at services in the community such as alcohol and other drug clinics. The Minns Government needs to expand drug-checking services beyond the music festival gate, given that the vast majority of illicit drug use is happening outside music festivals.“The Coronial Inquest into Drug Deaths at Music Festivals also recommended other harm reduction measures which the Government has been refusing to do. The Coroner found that the presence of police with sniffer dogs caused the death of Alex Ross-King who panicked and took all of her pills at once. “To make music festivals even safer, the Minns Government must match this trial with ditching the dogs and strip searches at music festivals.“Both the Coroner and the Ice Inquiry Commissioner strongly recommended to the Government that drugs be treated as a health issue, not a criminal one. I join with them, and countless other experts, to once again call on the NSW Government to remove criminal penalties for drug use,” said Ms Faehrmann.

In the early hours of December 20th, 109 years ago, the guns fell silent in the ANZAC Sector at Gallipoli.On this day in 1915, after nearly nine months of fighting, the last of the ANZAC troops evacuated with heavy hearts.The Turkish forces were relieved that there would be no more fighting, that they could mourn many thousands who perished defending their homeland and that peace had finally prevailed at Gallipoli.A commemorative service is taking place at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park Sydney at 12 noon today - 4am in Gallipoli, the time the last boat rowed away from ANZAC Cove.More than 60,000 Australians served at Gallipoli during the eight-month campaign, 8,700 lost their lives and 18,000 were wounded.There are 33 Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemeteries in Türkiye, 21 are in the Anzac area and the major cemeteries include Lone Pine, Shrapnel Valley, Ari Burnu, the Beach, and Shell Green. To this day there are more than 7,200 Australians buried in cemeteries in Türkiye or listed as missing in Gallipoli.Minister for Veterans David Harris said, “Today is a significant day for Australian military history. We acknowledge the 109th anniversary of the Gallipoli campaign which saw the withdrawal of the last of the ANZAC troops on 20 December 1915.“The Gallipoli campaign holds a special place in mine and my family’s heart as my great great uncle Lieutenant Duncan Chapman was the first man to step ashore at Gallipoli in 1915.“Today is an opportunity for us all to remember the service and sacrifice of our veterans who participated in this campaign 109 years ago.“It is important that we continue to commemorate this day to ensure that the legacy of our veterans lives on for generations.”

As we mark the fifth anniversary of the tragic loss of two of our own, Andrew O’Dwyer and Geoffrey Keaton, we also reflect on one of the most devastating chapters in our history — the 2019/20 Black Summer bush fires.The Christmas and New Year period was marked by extreme fire behaviour and profound loss, remaining indelibly etched in the collective memory of our state and nation.The largescale operational response saw the tireless efforts of thousands of RFS members and contributions from interstate and international partners come together, along with the resilience of communities across the state.More than 5.5 million hectares burned across NSW, claiming 26 lives, including the tragic loss of four dedicated NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) members (Andrew O’Dwyer and Geoffrey Keaton from Horsely Park Brigade, Samuel McPaul from Morven Brigade and Colin Burns from Belowra Brigade) and three American aircrew (Ian McBeth, Paul Hudson and Rick DeMorgan Jr).The impact and tragedy of the season saw an international fundraising response with more than $100 million raised for the RFS and Brigades Donations Trust, which has been used to expedite the rollout of helmets, respiratory protection, and other equipment for volunteer firefighters, along with the establishment of the RFS Benevolent Fund, to support members and their families in the future.While the 2019/2020 bush fires destroyed more than 2,400 homes in NSW alone, since then, significant progress has been made in improving fire mitigation, response capabilities, and community awareness.Commissioner of the RFS, Rob Rogers, said it is important to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice and honour the resilience of affected communities.“The Black Summer bush fires were an unprecedented tragedy. We mourn the loss of lives, especially those of our brave RFS volunteers and aircrew who gave everything to protect our communities. Their courage and selflessness will never be forgotten,” Commissioner Rogers said.“With the summer ahead, it is crucial for all of us to remain vigilant. Prepare your homes, update your bush fire survival plan and stay informed. Live bush fire ready.“The Black Summer bush fires tested us in ways we could never have imagined.“We saw unprecedented fire behaviour, destruction and loss, but we also witnessed the extraordinary dedication of our members and the support of people from across Australia and the world.“We remember our fallen colleagues with deep sadness and pride. Their sacrifices remind us of the importance of the work we do and why we all must remain vigilant and prepared as we face future fire seasons.”

A new partnership between the NSW Police Force and ID Support NSW will leverage the expertise of both agencies to create a faster and more effective response to identify theft.A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between NSW Police and ID Support NSW has been signed and will facilitate a more streamlined information sharing process between the agencies and complement police efforts to support victims of identity crimes.The partnership heralds a new era in efforts to protect the public from the ever-growing threat of identity theft, data breaches, scams, and other types of cybercrime.ID Support NSW, within Cyber Security NSW, helps people restore their stolen or misused identity documents and shares free resources and tools with individuals, groups, and small businesses to protect against identity theft and data breaches.Commander of State Crime Command’s Cybercrime Squad, Detective Superintendent Matt Craft, said the partnership is a commitment to working together to ultimately ensure the cyber safety and security of our community.“Our partnership with ID Support NSW marks a significant step forward in our efforts to protect the public from the ever-growing threat of identity theft, data breaches, scams, and other types of cybercrime,” Det Supt Craft said.“It enhances our ability to educate the public and provide critical support to those affected by cybercrime, and it also underscores our commitment to leveraging all available resources to stay ahead of would-be cyber criminals and to support victims.“An example of how we will use this partnership going forward can be seen in a recent investigation by Bankstown Region Enforcement Squad, where officers seized approximately 14,000 various identity documents most likely obtained during various data breaches.“A total of 959 individuals were identified as being potentially impacted; all of whom were contacted to alert them of the compromise and supported in taking steps to prevent it happening again.”Digital NSW Deputy Secretary Laura Christie said, “Identity theft is deeply unnerving because it strikes at the core of your personal security. It’s not just about stolen data—it’s about the loss of control over your own identity, which can leave people feeling exposed, vulnerable, and uncertain.”“We want NSW residents to know that ID Support NSW is here to help with personalised guidance through our support line and guidance on proactive steps you can take to protect your identity following a breach.“The partnership between ID Support and NSW Police will amplify both team’s abilities to respond to incidents and provide help for victims of identity theft, fraud and scams.”

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin, together with Tenterfield Shire Mayor Cr Bronwyn Petrie and her Deputy Cr Greg Sauer, on Monday (16 December) convened a meeting with two Superintendents to discuss policing and related matters in the Local Government Area.Ms Saffin and Cr Petrie thanked Acting Superintendent Dave Cooper (New England Police District), who has responsibility for Tenterfield, and Superintendent Scott Tanner APM, whose Richmond District takes in Drake, Urbenville and Legume, for their responsiveness.In a joint statement, the MP and Mayor noted that in recent times, crime has been the topic of community conversation in the Tenterfield area, with some residents feeling that they were not covered with a 24/7 policing presence.  “The situation is that we do have 24/7 policing; we have a permanent police presence with a few vacancies, but a commitment to secure more police from the next class attesting from the Goulburn Police Academy. We also sought and received a commitment to higher visibility policing in Tenterfield’s streets,” they stated.“The numbers entering the Academy from a low point of double-digit recruits a few years back are now increasing exponentially due to two significant NSW Government policy changes – wages paid during training and an historic wage increase for serving police since November. More than 1,000 recruits are expected to attest next year, further strengthening the ranks of the NSW Police Force.“We urge Tenterfield Shire residents to report crime on the following numbers – 000 for all emergencies; 131 444 (the Police Assistance Line) for non-urgent police assistance, reporting minor crime and general inquiries; or 1800 333 000 (Crime Stoppers) to report criminal information. All calls will be triaged and responded to.”

The NSW Government has released its Half-Yearly Review showing a result broadly in line with Budget expectations.A deterioration in the 2024-25 Budget result is offset by improvements in the budget result across the forward estimates. The Government’s fiscal strategy is maintaining expense growth at an average annual rate of 1.8 per cent, in line with the Budget but well below the 9.7 per cent expense growth occurring 2018-19 and 2022-23. 2024-252025-262026-272027-28TotalVariance in Budget result-$1,350m$271m$628m$211m-$240mThe 2024-25 Budget result is driven by known risk pressures, primarily:A $995.1 million increase in expenses from insurance and compensation scheme valuationsA $453.6 million increase in interest expenses due to movements in projected bond yields and borrowings, as the Government refinances COVID-19 debt at higher interest ratesA $458.6 million decline in state taxation revenue in 2024-25 (before increasing in later years), andA $440.8 million reduction in revenue from Sydney Water due to a reporting error.The 2027-28 deficit is now projected to be $1.3 billion, down from $1.5 billion at the 2024-25 Budget.A $6.6 billion public sector wages investment is accounted for by offsets and productivity gains, creating no additional debt.Total revenue is expected to increase by $6 billion over the Budget and forward estimates, largely driven by upgrades to Commonwealth payments, GST revenue and payroll tax.Disaster recovery funding comprises a significant portion of the Commonwealth grants upgrades.A $2.5 billion increase in GST revenue over four years reflects a larger GST pool, updated state budget data and a revised forecasting methodology.Revenue increases in 2024-25 are partially offset by reduced transfer duty, which is revised down by $391.7 million for the year, but up by $428.9 million over the four years to 2027-28.The Half-Yearly Review shows that the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to a responsible fiscal approach is yielding results for the people of NSW.The 2024 Half-Yearly Review can be found here.

Australian rescue teams are set to depart for Vanuatu with fears the death toll will rise on the South Pacific island nation following a devastating earthquake.At least 14 people were killed and hundreds injured after a magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck about 30km west of Port Vila at lunchtime on Tuesday.An Australian rescue team and a medical assistance team were preparing to fly to Vanuatu on Wednesday morning on air force transport planes.Aftershocks, including one 6.1 magnitude quake, had further rattled the island and rescue efforts.(Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles says Australia will do it can to help Vanuatu. (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said there were no reports of Australian casualties from the quake."We will continually liaise with the Vanuatu government about what further assistance we can provide as this unfolds," he told ABC Radio."Clearly, this is a very significant incident and we hold anxiety about how it will unfold."Some Australian embassy staff suffered "small scrapes", and the government was still in the process of contacting local staff, Mr Marles said.The Australian High Commission to Vanuatu's communications systems had been impacted as a result of the quake, High Commissioner Max Willis said in a post on X.Mr Marles said Australia had been in high-level contact with the Vanuatu government, but telecommunications systems were being strained."We're talking about countries which have fragile infrastructure to begin with, so there are really significant challenges in these moments," he said."That said, our contacts with Vanuatu are strong."We're well-practised in terms of doing humanitarian and disaster release contingencies and measures in countries around the Pacific, including Vanuatu, so we're in a good position to be able to provide the assistance needed."The Australian government was preparing to provide further assistance based on Vanuatu's needs.French ambassador to Vanuatu and Solomon Islands, Jean-Baptiste Jeangene Vilmer, said France was working with Australia and New Zealand to organise disaster relief."Many victims in the country, flights suspended, communications cut, no water or electricity, we are organising relief," he posted on X.By Jacob Shteyman in Canberra

A new poll has revealed that 70% of participants support a 15% pay rise for NSW nurses and midwives as NSW government continues to battle the NSW Nurses and Midwives' Association (NSWNMA).The state government has been at loggerheads with the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) since May, unwilling to negotiate a deal beyond its original baseline public sector pay offer of 3% per cent over three years, excluding superannuation.Polling and analysis of marginal electorates conducted by the RedBridge Group revealed voters had overwhelming support for the NSWNMA’s pay claim, with 70% of participants in support of a 15% pay increase, including 71% of Labor voters, 66% of Coalition voters and 90% of Greens voters.Support increased (80% overall) when respondents learned nurses and midwives were leaving NSW due to the pay disparity with other states, including the 18% pay gap for early career nurses and midwives compared to their Queensland counterparts.NSWNMA General Secretary Shaye Candish said the Minns government had failed to recognise the vital contribution nurses and midwives make to the state’s public health system and in their broader communities.“Our members feel incredibly under-valued by the Minns Labor government and are devastated they are being forced to contemplate moving interstate for better pay and conditions or leaving their chosen professions altogether,” said Ms Candish.“The people of NSW expect their public health system to provide accessible and appropriate care to every patient who needs it, but voters have witnessed the demoralising working conditions for themselves, and they know the sacrifices nurses and midwives make to provide care.“This report is further evidence of just how out of touch this government is with the electorate. By punishing nurses and midwives, they are punishing the people of NSW and poorly managing our state’s health system.”Director of Strategy and Analytics at RedBridge, Kos Samaras, said Labor was vulnerable on healthcare.“Voters’ existing opinion of the NSW Labor government’s policies and performance in this area is lower than the government should be comfortable with, and this ongoing industrial dispute has the potential to pull this down further,” said Mr Samaras.“Labor’s softest supporters do not rate it highly when it comes to healthcare. In fact, the Coalition is better rated by Labor voters on healthcare than Labor is scored by Coalition voters.”Sixty-seven per cent of voters said the ongoing pay dispute with nurses and midwives decreased their confidence in the NSW government’s ability to manage healthcare, and 61 per cent said their view of the government was shaped by whether it increased the pay for nurses and midwives.“Voters in these marginal seats say the current state of the NSW public health system is important to their vote at the 2025 federal election, and it matters most to those who are supportive of the pay demands of nurses and midwives,” added Mr Samaras.NSWNMA Assistant General Secretary Michael Whaites confirmed the union’s pay and conditions dispute was headed towards arbitration after the Minns government applied to progress its inadequate pay offer in the NSW Industrial Relations Commission.“This government cannot be allowed to ram through a three-year award that offers only 3% per annum. Underpaying nurses and midwives like this is simply not good enough, and we intend to continue our fight,” said Mr Whaites.

The NSW Government announced today that a 12-month trial of body-worn cameras for NSW hospital security staff has now commenced to improve safety for staff, patients and visitors.It will see all security staff in participating hospitals equipped with body-worn cameras.They will be able to activate these cameras in response to incidents involving aggression and violence in the hospital, where there is risk of harm to staff, patients or others.The trial will determine how effective the technology is at deterring and de-escalating violent incidents and will be independently evaluated once completed.Beginning with Royal North Shore, the trial will expand to a total of 15 hospitals across Sydney, the Central Coast, the Hunter, the Illawarra, the Mid North Coast, New England, Northern NSW and Western NSW. Royal North Shore Hospital in Sydney’s north has become the first public hospital in NSW to trial the technology.Body-worn cameras are one strategy intended to keep everyone safe in NSW public hospitals. NSW Health facilities also have a number of other key strategies in place to ensure the safest possible environment for staff, patients and visitors. These include:Ongoing risk assessments to identify and manage emerging security risks.Safety huddles to share information on patient-related safety risk with incoming workers.Patient management plans that set out specific arrangements to keep both the patient and healthcare workers safe when providing care.Multi-disciplinary Code Black (duress) response teams. This includes the use of NSW Health security staff/Health and Security Assistants to assist clinical staff with the management of incidents.Workplaces designed to enhance line of sight for staff, including dual egress at staff stations and in treatments rooms.Lockdown arrangements including secure entry points between public and clinical areas and secure perimeters for facilities, particularly after hours.Personal mobile and fixed duress alarms for staff to ensure they can summon assistance when necessary.Closed-circuit television (CCTV) and effective lighting to ensure visibility.Procedures to enhance car park security, including regular security patrols.This trial is part of the ongoing implementation of recommendations from the Anderson Review of Hospital Security and follows implementation of other recommendations by the NSW Government to improve hospital security. These include the establishment of the Safety and Security Improvement Unit within the Ministry of Health, the standardising of code black procedures, and enhanced support for patient experience officers.Minister for Health Ryan Park said, “The safety of our staff and patients is my top priority as the Minister for Health.“Any instances of aggression towards staff will not be tolerated, and appropriate action will always be taken against individuals who behave in such a manner.“I look forward to the results of this trial, which will provide insight into how we can reduce instances of violence and aggression in our public hospitals.”Gerard Hayes, Health Services Union, said, “Hospital staff are not punching bags, yet they cop vile and violent abuse all the time.“A trial like this will give offenders pause for thought and provide a stronger base of evidence when staff are assaulted.“If this can prevent even a small portion of assaults, we are all for it."

Two Australian families are receiving assistance after a group of tourists fell ill in a suspected alcohol poisoning incident in Fiji.Police and health officials were investigating an alleged alcohol poisoning at a resort on Fiji's Coral Coast after seven guests fell ill after drinking alcohol, local media reported.The victims were taken to Sigatoka Hospital on Saturday night with "nausea, vomiting, and neurological symptoms", Fijivillage.com reported.It said two of the victims were later transferred to Lautoka Hospital.The victims are reportedly aged between 18 and 56.The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said on Sunday it was providing consular assistance to two Australian families in Fiji."Owing to our privacy obligations we are unable to provide further comment," a spokesperson said.The department revised its travel advice for Fiji on Sunday following the incident."We continue to advise exercise normal safety precautions," the Smart Traveller advice for Fiji said."Be alert to the potential risks around drink spiking and methanol poisoning through consuming alcoholic drinks."Get urgent medical help if you suspect drink spiking."The incident in Fiji follows a mass poisoning that killed at least six tourists in Laos including two Australians.Nineteen-year-old Melbourne friends Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles died in Thai hospitals in November of suspected methanol poisoning after drinking tainted alcohol in Laos.By Dominic Giannini and Suzanne Simonot in Canberra

The five remaining members of the Bali Nine drug smuggling ring are back in Australia after serving more than 19 years in jail in Indonesia.Matthew Norman, Scott Rush, Martin Stephens, Si Yi Chen and Michael Czugaj arrived in Australia from Indonesia on Sunday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said in a statement.Their future custodial status remains unknown, with the prime minister saying they would "have the opportunity to continue their personal rehabilitation and reintegration here in Australia"."We would like to convey our deep appreciation to the government of Indonesia for its co-operation to facilitate the men's return to Australia on humanitarian grounds," Mr Albanese, Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said in a joint statement on Sunday."This reflects the strong bilateral relationship and mutual respect between Indonesia and Australia."The five repatriated Australians were among nine arrested in 2005 after trying to smuggle heroin and had been behind bars serving life sentences in Bali.Mr Albanese acknowledged the men had committed "serious offences" but said it was "time for them to come home"."Australia respects Indonesia's sovereignty and legal processes and we appreciate Indonesia's compassionate consideration of this matter," he said.He said the government would "continue to co-operate" with Indonesia to counter narcotics trafficking and transnational crime."Australia shares Indonesia's concern about the serious problem illicit drugs represents," he said.Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says it was"time for them to come home". (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)Mr Albanese thanked President Prabowo Subianto for Indonesia's co-operation and commitment to working with Australia on the men's return."I have conveyed my personal appreciation to President Prabowo for his act of compassion," he said.Bali Nine ringleaders Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran were executed in 2015, sparking a diplomatic incident with Australia, while Renae Lawrence was released in 2018 and Tan Duc Than Nguyen died of cancer the same year.Bali Nine member Renae Lawrence was released from prison in Indonesia in 2018. (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)The Australian government had consistently advocated for the men and provided consular support to them and their families."We ask that the media respect the privacy of the men and their families at this time," Mr Albanese said.Jakarta was reportedly seeking the repatriation of Indonesian prisoners held in Australia as part of any deal to bring the Bali Nine members home.By Suzanne Simonot in Canberra

High Speed Rail Authority (HSRA) has officially opened its office in Newcastle today, establishing the city as the birthplace of Australia’s first high-speed rail line.Alongside the new office, HSRA has established an information centre, inviting the community to connect with the project and view potential station designs.Community engagement will be critical to the success of the rail line, which will connect Newcastle to Sydney in about an hour, and the centre will form a hub for ongoing engagement. The designs provide a glimpse inside potential carriages as well as a mock-up of a station, revealing how it could be integrated into communities, paving the way for a new type of travel that complements existing transport services.(An artist impression of a Business Class carriage)A business case is on track to be delivered to the Australian Government at the end of this year, with experts from across Australia and around the world confirming the first stage of high-speed rail will unlock new homes, create new jobs and stimulate the economy. The High Speed Rail Authority Office and Community Information Centre opening in Newcastle was part of the Albanese Government’s $500 million commitment to planning an east coast high-speed rail network.The proposed line from Newcastle to Sydney would use world-class trains capable of travelling up to 320 km/h on a dedicated railway line. They would have onboard high-speed Wi-Fi, food and beverage options, luggage storage and pet-friendly areas.The information hub will officially open in the new year, but the community was invited for a first look today to witness the project as it comes to life. Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said, “High-speed rail means generations of new opportunities for regional Australia, creating more jobs in more locations and giving people greater choices in where they live, work, study and play.“Our transformational investment in high-speed rail will help shape Australia for decades to come.”Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon said, “Newcastle will be the birthplace of high-speed rail in Australia, forever changing how we get around our great country.“Our Government is committed to high-speed rail, which represents the next chapter in the economic story of Newcastle and the Hunter.“The route will open a host of housing, employment and business opportunities for the region, as well as providing sustainable, low-emissions transport.“I know that Novocastrians cannot wait to see this project come to fruition.”High Speed Rail Authority CEO Tim Parker said, “Journeys will be reliable, quick, convenient and comfortable.“Right now, we’re working on how to build a new railway in complex areas and the engineering challenges we would face.“There would be stations in central Newcastle, the Central Coast and central Sydney with intermediate stations under consideration as part of business case work.“From the Central Coast to Newcastle or to Sydney, the trip would be 30 minutes.”

The NSW Government has taken another step towards creating a fairer toll road system for Sydney, presenting an In Principle Agreement to the motorway concessionaires which provides a pathway to more detailed negotiations in 2025.The Government expects the In Principle Agreement to be signed off by the end of the year by concessionaires who hold the ten privately-owned toll road concessions of Sydney’s 13 toll roads.It sets out further areas to discuss and refine as part of the next stage of creating a genuine toll network and a new network-wide pricing structure across the tangle of different private contracts.The NSW Government has committed to tilting the system back in favour of motorists and ending the era of Liberal Party “Toll-Mania” with a fairer, network-wide pricing structure.If concessionaires sign the In Principle Agreement, it will allow the process to enter the second stage of the direct dealing towards toll reform and enable negotiation of a new network-wide pricing method.The NSW Government is committed to respecting the value of the motorway contracts – but is also intent that windfall gains that stem from toll reform go to the NSW public, rather than private operators.The Minns Labor Government’s $60 toll cap has been an effective, targeted cost-of-living relief measure, with motorists in the most car-reliant suburbs of western Sydney claiming the most cash back.The Government entered negotiations with the concessionaires after the July 16 release of the final report of the Toll Review of Professor Allan Fels and Dr David Cousins.Their report declared Sydney’s toll road network to be a poorly functioning patchwork of numerous different price structures that will cost motorists $195 billion in nominal terms in tolls over the next three and a half decades on top of the billions they have already paid.The Government’s objectives would require the new price structure to:Deliver fairer tollsLower tolls for those who must travel longer distancesCreate a network out of the different toll roads with a network-wide pricing structureCreate a more efficient Sydney road network that takes more trucks off suburban streetsMinister for Roads John Graham said, “The Minns Labor Government is committed to restoring fairness to the toll system and putting the interests of motorists first.“These have been tough discussions so far, but I am pleased to say we believe we are closely enough aligned on objectives to continue negotiations.“Creating a fairer system is no easy task given the contracts that were left behind by the previous Coalition government, but we believe reform remains possible.“We expect to have the In Principle Agreement signed by December 31.“Toll reform is a critical part of the NSW Government’s cost of living agenda. As we negotiate towards a single network with a network-wide pricing structure, we continue to offer toll relief under the $60 toll cap.“We have already legislated to establish NSW Motorways, a state-owned entity that will oversee a reformed toll road network and allow the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal to monitor toll prices in Sydney, as well as facilitating the establishment of an industry toll customer ombudsman.”Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said, “Negotiations are on track. We’ve put an In Principle Agreement to the concessionaires and look forward to continuing negotiations in the new year.“We have said all along that this is about relief and reform for drivers. “Motorists across Sydney are getting cost of living relief with our $60 toll cap, while we are moving ahead on sensible long-term reform.“Sydney’s complex and costly web of tolls are another privatisation legacy of the former government. We are working to make this fairer.”