The NSW Government is continuing to support communities affected by recent bushfires, announcing today that recovery hubs will be established and hardship payments made available for individuals and families whose homes were destroyed or damaged or who are facing severe hardship due to the recent fires.Recovery Hubs will be open in Woy Woy and Buledelah this Friday, 12 December, with the NSW Reconstruction Authority, Vinnies, Salvation Army, Legal Aid, Red Cross and GIVIT, on hand to provide personal support to impacted communities.The state government is partnering with local charities to deliver personal hardship payments of $900 to households where their home has been destroyed or severely damaged, and up to $180 for households experiencing hardship as a result of the bushfires.Recovery support is jointly funded by the Commonwealth and the NSW Government under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).Natural disaster declarations have been announced for seven Local Government Areas - Central Coast, Mid Coast, Upper Hunter, Muswellbrook, Warrumbungle, Dubbo and Lake Macquarie, with emergency services and local councils working alongside the NSW Reconstruction Authority to confirm the extent of damage and ensure residents can access help as quickly as possible.Residents, businesses, primary producers and councils in the declared LGAs are now able to access a range of support, including:Emergency accommodation and essential support for people whose homes have been damagedClean up assistance for eligible property ownersGrants for low-income, uninsured residents to replace essential household items and undertake structural repairs needed to make homes safe and habitableFreight subsidies to move livestock and fodder, and small business and primary producer low-interest loansAssistance for councils and emergency services for counter-disaster operations and essential public asset repairsInformation, including how to apply for payments and support for impacted communities, can be found by visiting a Recovery Hub or at nsw.gov.au/firerecoveryupdates.  The NSW Government is continuing to deploy personnel and resources into impacted communities as the full extent of damage and support needs becomes clearer. Community members wishing to support impacted residents can donate through GIVIT, which is coordinating goods, services and financial donations on behalf of the NSW Government to ensure help reaches communities in need. Visit givit.org.au for more information. Central Coast Recovery HubLocation: Peninsula Community Centre, 98 McMasters Rd, Woy WoyOpen: 1pm to 5pm - Friday 12 DecemberSupport services: NSW Reconstruction Authority, Central Coast Council, Service NSW, Vinnies, Legal Aid NSWBulahdelah Recovery Assistance PointLocation: Bulahdelah School of Arts, 76 Crawford Street, BulahdelahOpen: 1pm to 5pm - Friday 12 DecemberTo keep up to date on recovery support, visit nsw.gov.au/firerecoveryupdates.Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said, “These communities have faced fast-moving and destructive fires, and our focus right now is making sure people have somewhere safe to stay and can access the essential support they need.“Teams are on the ground working with combat agencies and councils to confirm damage to homes, businesses and public assets, and support is already being delivered across all seven LGAs.”

The Australian Bureau of Statistics has today released 10 things that happened in the Australian economy during the September quarter 2025.  1. The Australian economy continued to grow The Australian economy grew by 0.4 per cent during September quarter 2025 and matched the steady growth since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. GDP per person was flat this quarter following a 0.3 per cent uptick in June.2. Falling borrowing costs and low vacancy rates created favourable conditions for property investors.  Growth in the value of new investor loans of 17.6 per cent was the strongest quarterly growth since June quarter 2021. This compared with moderate growth of 4.7 per cent for owner occupiers. 3. Household consumption rose, but mostly on the essentialsHousehold consumption rose 0.5 per cent during the quarter. The 4.2 per cent rise in spending on electricity was due to the phase out of State government rebates and increased usage during an especially cold winter. Spending on health was driven by a bad flu season where consumers bought more over the counter medicines.4. Household savings increased as incomes outpaced paymentsEmployee incomes rose $6.2 billion during the quarter, while Australians paid around $2.6 billion more in income tax. Interest paid on housing loans fell for the third quarter in a row on the back of interest rate cuts. Households saved 6.4 per cent of their income during the quarter, compared to 6.0 per cent in June. 5. The unemployment rate ticked up to 4.5 per cent in the September month Growth in filled jobs were relatively flat, rising 0.7 per cent to 16.1 million. The total number of hours worked was 0.2 per cent higher than last quarter. Demand for labour eased slightly, with job vacancies down 1.9 per cent over the quarter. 6. Private investment growth was driven by equipment for data centresBusiness investment contributed 0.5 percentage points to GDP growth. Investment in machinery and equipment rose 7.6 per cent during the quarter, driven by the expansion of data centres as businesses look to take advantage of artificial intelligence and cloud computing capabilities.7. Dwelling construction rises with drier weather on the East Coast Dwelling construction increased 1.8 per cent. This was largely driven by house building on the East Coast, where construction companies took advantage of dry weather. Average completion times for new houses fell during the quarter.  8. Mining firms run down inventory stocks Mining production fell with increased maintenance at both iron ore and LNG sites. Mining inventory stocks were run down ($1.6 billion) to meet export demand. This drove an overall $1.9 billion rundown in inventories, which detracted 0.5 percentage points from GDP growth.9. Accommodation and food services went up around sporting events and activitiesAccommodation and food went up 0.2 per cent during the quarter and 3.6 per cent over the year. Footy finals, sporting tours and a bumper snow season drove high hotel occupancy rates.10. Households pay more for electricity, travel and accommodation Consumer prices rose 1.3 per cent during the September quarter, and 3.2 per cent annually. The rise was caused by a 9 per cent increase in electricity costs as annual price reviews came into effect. Changes to the timing of Commonwealth bill relief rebates also had an impact in some States. The cost of travel and accommodation rose 2.9 per cent during the quarter due to school holiday demand. 

The Federal and NSW Governments have activated additional assistance for communities impacted by recent bushfires with a Natural Disaster Declaration for the Lake Macquarie Local Government Area.In the Lake Macquarie area, the bushfire threatened homes in the townships of Redhead, Gateshead, Whitebridge and Dudley, requiring significant aviation support and causing damage to over 90 hectares of bushland.The declaration activates a suite of support measures for residents, businesses, primary producers and the local council. People whose homes have been damaged may be eligible for immediate financial help as well as clean-up, rebuilding and recovery assistance.Support has been made available under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).Assistance measures that may be available, depending on eligibility include: Assistance for eligible residents to help meet immediate needs like emergency accommodation and essential items generally provided from evacuation or recovery centres.Grants for low-income, uninsured residents to replace lost essential household items to maintain basic standard of living.Grants for low-income, uninsured residents to undertake essential structural repairs to restore their homes to a basic, safe and habitable condition.Freight subsidies for primary producers to help transport livestock and fodder.Financial support towards counter disaster activity undertaken by emergency service organisations to keep communities safe.The NSW Government understands people want to help, but we ask the community not to send physical donations. The best way to support those affected is by donating through GIVIT, our official disaster relief partner at https://www.givit.org.au/.The Natural Disaster Declaration for Lake Macquarie follows the earlier announcement of DRFA disaster assistance to communities in the 6 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Central Coast, Mid Coast, Upper Hunter, Muswellbrook, Warrumbungle and Dubbo.To keep up to date with recovery advice and support go to nsw.gov.au/firerecoveryupdates. Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain said, “I want people in the Lake Macquarie region to know the Albanese Government is here to support you. We are working closely with our New South Wales counterparts to ensure people get assistance as quickly as possible.“To have this happen to people just weeks before Christmas is especially tough, and as a community we are all here to help.”NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said, “The Lake Macquarie community has endured a frightening and disruptive period of bushfires.“This declaration enables immediate access to essential support so people can begin to get back on their feet.“Recovery staff are on the ground with Council and emergency services, undertaking impact assessments and recovery planning to ensure resources are directed where they’re needed most, as quickly as possible.”

The NSW Government has today announced a range of measures and actions aimed at strengthening the governance, integrity and animal welfare standards of greyhound racing industry in NSW.These measures respond to the findings of the inquiry led by the Hon. Lea Drake, appointed by Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris, to address concerns regarding Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW). Acting Commissioner Drake identified significant governance and operational failures within Greyhound Racing NSW under previous management, including deficiencies in procurement and recruitment practices, financial mismanagement, wasteful expenditure and a poor workplace culture.In response to this report, the Government is taking action to ensure the industry lifts standards and practices by reforming the industry’s operating licence and issuing a Statement of Expectations to the regulator.New Operating Licence for Greyhound Racing NSWThe NSW Government will issue GRNSW with a new Operating Licence that sets out conditions legally requiring the organisation to address key recommendations of the Drake Inquiry to ensure its operations meet the highest standards of governance and animal welfare, including:increasing oversight of greyhound rehoming programs run by GRNSW and third-party groups to significantly improve rehoming pathways, including prioritising domestic rehoming programs where possibleensuring sustainable and transparent funding for animal welfareimproving reporting on greyhound rehoming dataimproving reporting to the Greyhound Welfare Integrity Commission (GWIC) on greyhound deaths from unknown causesensuring updates to the minimum track standards are actioned appropriately and implemented across all clubsimproving a suite of internal GRNSW’s policies, Board Charters and Code of Conduct to lift standards around organisational management, human resources, procurement process, financial and human resource management and workplace culturesetting requirements for reporting by GRNSW on progress with implementing these reforms.As is required in Section 25 of the Greyhound Racing Act 2017, Minister Harris will consult with the industry’s regulator, GWIC, on the updated licence before issuing it to GRNSW.Statement of Expectations for the Greyhound Welfare & Integrity CommissionWhile the Drake Inquiry focused on GRNSW, the Government recognises GWIC plays a critical role as the industry’s regulator.The Minister also today issued the Commission with a Ministerial Statement of Expectations that requires it to undertake key activities to boost greyhound welfare, that must be complied with by 30 June 2026. The expectations include:bolstered reporting and transparency measures around track safety, greyhound rehoming and injuries to greyhoundsrequirements to publish catastrophic injury reporting on a per-track basisdeveloping and issuing minimum standards for greyhound kennelling and rehoming facilitiesundertaking analysis of greyhound breeding and whelping rates to support a sustainable industryexamining avenues to assist GWIC in determining the cause of greyhound deaths, where there are suspicious or unusual circumstances reviewing euthanasia policies to ensure best practice.The Drake Inquiry was extensive and received more than 1,600 public submissions and more than 80,000 documents, as well as conducting 31 days of hearings. Minister Harris released the full 722-page report of the inquiry. The Drake Inquiry report, NSW Government Response and Statement of Expectations issued to GWIC are available at www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/office-of-racing/racing-publications-and-media-releases. Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said, “Greyhound racing is an important industry across our state, especially in regional and rural communities where it provides jobs for many people and makes a major economic contribution.“The Government is committed to ensuring the NSW greyhound racing industry is competitive, responsible and sustainable with the highest standards of governance, animal welfare and integrity. “A number of concerns and allegations relating to Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) have been raised with me and the Drake Inquiry addressed those concerns.“This response will introduce a series of reforms and actions to instil a rigorous new operating environment to enable the greyhound industry’s governing body and senior leadership to best meet the high standards we demand.“I thank the Hon Lea Drake for the comprehensive inquiry she led which identified significant issues relating to GRNSW’s governance, management, culture and greyhound welfare.“The Drake Report recognises that GRNSW has made progress since the Special Commission of Inquiry into it by Michael McHugh AC QC in 2016 and also since the Drake Inquiry was established, under refreshed management. “Ms Drake’s report contains a large number of recommendations, which I have used to inform the suite of measures enacted today.”

The federal AMA is today calling for genuine reform and substantial investment in the next hospital funding agreement, saying the federal government must play its part and invest $34.7 billion over the next five years. AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen said Australia’s public hospitals are in crisis and the time for band-aid solutions and patch-up approaches was over.“The next National Health Reform Agreement (NHRA) must fix the crisis, or to put it simply, patients will die,” Dr McMullen said.“We know the answers. Over the last five years, the AMA has released reports detailing the issues plaguing the public hospital system, issues that have led to long waits for essential surgeries; ambulance ramping; declining performance and mental health care shortfalls.“We launched our call for a new funding agreement in 2021 and have been relentless in our Clear the Hospital Logjam campaign every day since.”Dr McMullen said the Australian Government had commissioned an independent, expert-led mid-term review of the NHRA, with many real reform recommendations put forward by Rosemary Huxtable AO PSM.“Yet here we are, five minutes to midnight, having already kicked the can down the road for 12 months, without a new funding agreement. The analysis is there. The answers are there. And we certainly know the ramped ambulances, patients waiting in pain and overworked doctors and nurses are there.“Now is the time for the ministers to step up and deliver.”The AMA’s funding call for public hospitals, released today, shows the scale of investment needed. It calls on the federal government to meet its commitment to reach 45 per cent of total funding, but by 2030, as resolving the crisis can’t wait until 2035. It also calls for the cap on funding growth to be lifted. Conservative estimates put the cost of the investment at $34.7 billion over 5 years, and potentially up to $49.8 billion if public hospital costs continue to increase at a rate of 5.6 per cent each year.Based on AMA projections, states and territories will need to find $17.6 billion, and potentially up to $36.7 billion, if hospital costs continue to grow at 5.6 per cent per year over the next 5 years. The AMA is also calling for states to invest their freed-up funds resulting from any federal government injection into addressing the logjam.“The AMA is calling for all ministers to sign up to an agreement that has separate funding mechanisms to expand capacity, improve performance through specific initiatives and address avoidable admissions,” Dr McMullen said.“It’s clear the current funding agreement doesn’t fund hospitals to work with GPs and manage avoidable admissions effectively. When we know we have an ageing population, increasing chronic disease, and an incredible amount of aged care and NDIS bed-block.“When we operate and fund the health system in silos, patients get stuck in the cracks. Until a reform agreement includes funding and action to address aged care and NDIS bed-lock and avoidable admissions, the cycles of crisis we first predicted back in 2021 will continue.“That cannot be allowed to happen. The AMA is calling on all Australians to support the ‘Clear the hospital logjam’ campaign. Write to your MP, share your stories and demand change.”

Soccer fans, or football to the purists, will be excited that Sydney will play host to two of the biggest teams in world football next year, with Chelsea FC and Tottenham Hotspur confirmed as the headline clubs for the Sydney Super Cup 2026.The four-team tournament will be staged exclusively in Sydney, with the English Premier League giants taking on Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers FC, before facing off against each other in a blockbuster ‘London Derby’ in the Harbour City.Three matches will be played across Accor Stadium and Allianz Stadium, attracting thousands of local supporters and international visitors. The event is forecast to deliver more than $25 million into the NSW visitor economy.Hosting the Sydney Super Cup supports the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy 2035, which sets an ambitious goal to grow the visitor economy to $91 billion across the next decade. A key pillar of the Strategy is delivering a dynamic, nation-leading calendar of major events that drives visitation and supports the jobs and businesses that rely on year-round tourism.The Sydney Super Cup 2026 kicks off at Accor Stadium on 29 July with Chelsea FC vs Western Sydney Wanderers FC, followed by Tottenham Hotspur vs Chelsea FC at Accor Stadium on 1 August.The tournament concludes with Tottenham Hotspur vs Sydney FC at Allianz Stadium on 5 August. Match arrangements will be finalised as part of standard international match sanctioning.Additionally, in a major win for Sydney and women’s football, Chelsea FC Women will travel to Sydney to take on the A-League Women All Stars at Allianz Stadium on 12 August. Chelsea’s star-studded squad features Matildas fan favourites Sam Kerr and Ellie Carpenter, promising a blockbuster night of elite women’s football and a major boost for Sydney’s visitor economy.Today’s announcement further strengthens Sydney’s stellar line-up of major sporting events for 2026, joining the United Cup, New Year’s Ashes Test, Sydney Sail Grand Prix, AFC Women’s Asian Cup, Sydney 500, State of Origin, NRL and NRLW Grand Finals, Rugby League World Cup and the TCS Sydney Marathon Abbott World Marathon MajorTickets are on sale from this Friday, 12 December 2025, from 1pm. For more information, go to www.sydneysupercup.com.Minister for Jobs and Tourism and Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said, “Sydney has kicked another goal as Australia’s home of football, with two of the world’s best clubs coming to compete in the Sydney Super Cup 2026.“Alongside this blockbuster, we’re thrilled to announce a marquee women’s fixture. Chelsea FC Women will take on the Women’s A-League All Stars.“These four matches will give visiting fans the chance an extended stay in our beautiful Harbour City, taking in our iconic natural attractions and vibrant cultural experiences in one of the world’s great sporting destinations.“As we work towards our goal of a $91 billion visitor economy, major events like this are crucial – they help create memorable experiences that inspire visitors to stay longer, return again and explore more of our great state.”

The NSW Government is marking the official start of construction on NSW’s first Hydrogen Centre of Excellence at Glenwood, a key election commitment that will help ensure NSW has the workers it needs for its growing hydrogen industry and shift to renewable energy firmed by gas.Backed by a $25 million NSW Government investment, the Centre will train and upskill approximately 8,250 plumbers and gasfitters in its first five years, ensuring workers have the specialist skills required for hydrogen systems.Plumbers and gasfitters are some of the key jobs that will need new skills and training to support the shift to renewable energy. Additionally, there is a shortage of plumbers in NSW and across Australia.Construction of the Centre will support more than 500 jobs, including over 100 apprentice positions, providing an economic boost for Western Sydney. Around 50 staff will be employed once the Centre is fully operational.The facility will include purpose-built workshops and classrooms equipped with hydrogen-specific training tools, such as electrolysers, gas fitting systems and safety simulation environments. This will provide apprentices and existing workers with practical, hands-on experience to meet future industry demand.The state government is taking action to ensure NSW has reliable, renewable power entering the grid, while recognising the important role both hydrogen and gas will play as the economy moves toward net-zero.Gas will remain a key firming fuel as coal retires, making it essential that NSW has a workforce trained to safely manage both hydrogen and modern gas technologies to maintain reliable energy for households and industry.NSW Premier Chris Minns said, “NSW needs a skilled local workforce to support our future energy system. This Centre will help prepare the plumbers and gasfitters who will work with hydrogen as the technology develops.”“It means long-term jobs, high-quality training, and a pipeline of local workers ready to support the shift to cleaner energy.”Minister for Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement Courtney Houssos said, "This Hydrogen Centre of Excellence is about making sure NSW has the skilled workforce ready for the future. As industries begin to use hydrogen, we need plumbers and gasfitters equipped with the specialist skills to install and maintain these systems safely and effectively.""We’re delivering on our election commitment and taking action to catch up on the skills shortage we inherited from the previous Liberal-National Government. By investing in this training now, we’re ensuring that workers and businesses are ready for the opportunities that come with hydrogen technology. This is about preparing our workforce and supporting local jobs."Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said, “This investment ensures that apprentices and existing workers can access high-quality, industry-led training aligned to future skills needs.” “It highlights the value of strong collaboration between government, industry and unions in building the workforce that will support NSW’s economic and sustainability goals.”Federal Attorney-General and Member for Greenway, Michelle Rowland, said, “We’re proud to host the state’s first Hydrogen Centre of Excellence in Glenwood, ensuring our community is not just benefitting from the energy transition but is leading it. “This investment will mean more secure jobs and training opportunities here in the heart of North West Sydney.”

The Federal and NSW State Governments have activated disaster assistance to communities in 6 Local Government Areas (LGAs) following a number of bushfires across New South Wales.Initial assessments indicate a number of homes have been destroyed with extensive damage to more private property, critical infrastructure, fencing, agricultural assets and National Parks. The extent of the damage will be made clearer as RFS continue impact assessments.The declarations activate a suite of support measures for residents, businesses, primary producers, and councils. People whose homes have been damaged may be eligible for immediate financial help as well as clean-up, rebuilding and recovery assistance.The NSW Government’s Natural Disaster Declaration applies to the LGAs of:Central CoastMid CoastUpper HunterMuswellbrookWarrumbungleDubboSupport has been made available under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).Assistance measures that may be provided to communities include:Assistance for eligible residents to help meet immediate needs like emergency accommodation and essential items. Grants for low-income, uninsured residents to replace lost essential household items to maintain basic standard of living. Grants for low-income, uninsured residents to undertake essential structural repairs to restore their homes to a basic, safe and habitable condition.Concessional loans for small businesses and primary producers up to $130,000Freight and transport subsidies for primary producers to help transport livestock and fodder.Loans for non-profit organisations up to $25,000Financial support towards counter-disaster activity undertaken by emergency service organisations to keep communities safe.Impacted Councils will be provided with support to remove debris and for the reconstruction of essential public infrastructure.Community members affected by the recent bushfires should contact Service NSW on 13 77 88 or visit service.nsw.gov.au to access information on disaster assistance, grants, and recovery support. The NSW Government understands people want to help, but they ask the community not to send physical donations. The best way to support those affected is by donating through GIVIT, the official disaster relief partner at https://www.givit.org.au/.Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain said, “The Albanese Government stands ready to support New South Wales communities during times of emergencies.“Bushfires like this are very distressing, and my thoughts are with everyone that has been impacted.“Conditions yesterday were extremely challenging, and I’d like to thank all our emergency services, crews are fighting fires and keeping our communities safe.“The Albanese and Minns Governments are working together to get support to communities impacted by these bushfires as quickly as possible.”NSW Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin, said, “Our hearts are with every community impacted by the recent fires. We know people have lost homes, livelihoods, and their sense of security.“Whilst we continue to contain the fires that have impacted communities across NSW, our priority is also to support those people whose homes and livelihoods have been impacted. “These declarations make immediate assistance available so the difficult task of cleaning up and rebuilding can begin when it is safe to do so.“The NSW Government will continue to stand with affected communities every step of the way as the full extent of the impact becomes clear.”

The NSW Government has greenlit the final leg of Inland Rail in NSW – Phase 2 of the Narrabri to North Star section – clearing the tracks for faster freight, better connectivity, and a boost in regional jobs.This milestone marks the final planning approval required in NSW for the Commonwealth-funded 1,700km freight link from Melbourne to Brisbane, which will cut travel times to under 24 hours and ease pressure on Sydney’s metropolitan rail network.Phase 2 will upgrade 15 kilometres of track between Moree and Camurra North. Running through the Moree Plains Shire, the new line is supported by the council and forms a key link in the Inland Rail network. Once complete, the corridor will be capable of carrying up to 21 double-stacked trains and represents a major leap toward cleaner, more sustainable and efficient freight movement between regional NSW, domestic ports, and international markets.This phase of the project is expected to create around 150 jobs during construction and 50 ongoing roles, delivering a strong boost to the local economy and unlocking long-term opportunities for regional communities.This approval finalises the last of seven sections of Inland Rail in NSW. It builds on the momentum of Phase 1, which is approved to deliver 170 kilometres of upgraded track between Narrabri and North Star.The project’s approval includes conditions to address issues such as flooding, biodiversity, social impacts, traffic, and Aboriginal cultural heritage in line with assessment standards. For more information, visit https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/assess-and-regulate/state-significant-projects/inland-rail/narrabri-to-north-star.Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said, “The Inland Rail program is another step closer to reality with the planning approval of this important section of the track.”“This is more than just laying down steel – it’s laying the groundwork for regional growth, unlocking new opportunities in logistics, agriculture, and trade.”“By shifting freight from road to rail, we’re cutting emissions and making our road network safer.”Minister for Regional Transport and Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said, “This is the moment regional NSW has been waiting for. The project can move from planning to delivery – unlocking jobs, investment and a faster, smarter freight pathway across the state.“It’s a game-changer for connectivity from paddock to port.“The independent Schott Review laid bare the scale of the problems we inherited: years of mismanagement, cost blowouts and unrealistic timelines under the former Liberal and National Governments. Today’s approval shows that the Minns Labor Government is doing the hard work to fix the mess and get this project back on track.”Minister for Regional NSW and Western NSW Tara Moriarty said, “The Minns Government is focused on delivering for rural and regional communities, and this final stage of the Inland Rail being greenlit demonstrates our ability to get things done. “The project will create more jobs and open up new opportunities for investment in the bush by delivering stronger connections between local producers and their national and international markets.”

The NSW Government has formally responded to the Special Commission of Inquiry into Healthcare Funding (Health Inquiry), placing health workers, preventative care, hospital infrastructure, and federal funding at the cornerstones of its agenda for reform. The Health Inquiry visited every local health district and specialty health network across metropolitan as well as regional NSW, receiving 226 written submissions; hearing testimony from 225 witnesses over 70 days of hearings, including clinicians, patients, unions, providers and policy experts.The NSW Government response supports in full or in principle the majority of the 41 recommendations from the over 1,000-page report prepared by the Inquiry, with work already underway to address a number of the recommendations.Supporting and empowering health workers Health workers are at the centre of the health reform agenda.Priority work in progress includes the development of an internal locum agency within NSW Health, working closely with the Health Services Union (HSU) to support an award modernisation process, and supporting clinicians to work to their full scope of practice across the healthcare workforce.As part of the NSW Government response, NSW Health will:review its approach to statewide clinical service planning over the next 12 months, to determine the best ways to identify health needs and shape future public health services;enhance transparency by establishing a central workforce unit to better monitor data on workforce supply and demand to guide workforce strategies that will help to fill vacancies, address and prevent future workforce supply challenges, and to inform future workforce planning across local health districts;strengthen the focus of workforce wellbeing by creating a Chief Wellbeing Officer to lead system-wide wellbeing strategies and actions from the People Matter Employment Survey to enhance staff wellbeing and engagement; and strengthen prevention and early intervention on staff safety and wellbeing, along with the enhancement of the complaints and grievance portal for staff.Priority work already underway, in conjunction with the Health Services Union (HSU), includes:Establishing an internal locum agency, to provide an alternative service offering in addition to the third-party locum agency model. A central approach to the management of this critical workforce will reduce the recruitment burden on hospital staff, the administrative burden on doctors, as well as the State’s spend on locum agency fees over the coming decade.Modernising industrial awards. NSW Health has committed to working with the Health Services Union to reform allied health industrial awards and is committed to working with states, territories and the Commonwealth to remove barriers to support health practitioners to work to their optimal scope of practice. Supporting practitioners to work to their full scope of practice through innovative workforce models, including recent trials of paramedics working within emergency departments and within the community.Preventative healthcareIt is clear from escalating demand on our hospitals from an increasingly aged population that preventative healthcare will become even more central to the function of our health system.To that end, the NSW Government, through NSW Health, will:develop a statewide paediatric strategic plan to clearly define roles and care pathways for the delivery of world-class care to children across the state; andcontinue to examine low value, cost inefficient medical interventions and diagnostics while also invest in alternate and preventative models of care to deliver outcomes that matter to patients and provide long-term sustainability for the health system.This builds on the existing work of our health system geared towards prevention, including promoting healthy eating and active living, reducing the prevalence of diabetes, supporting a healthy start to life in the first 2000 days, improving oral, mental and sexual health, and reducing tobacco and e-cigarette, and drug and alcohol related harms.Hospitals meeting community health needsThe Health Inquiry examined health infrastructure, noting our hospitals must ‘reflect an assessment of the health needs of the population’.The state government is committed to delivering the hospitals and beds the community needs and deserves, including delivering new hospitals for Rouse Hill and Bankstown, new upgrades to Blacktown, Fairfield and Canterbury, and more beds for Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals.Further work completed by NSW Health or currently underway includes:An Infrastructure and Asset Management Division has been established within NSW Health, streamlining capital planning, infrastructure delivery and strategic asset management to ensure investments are sustainable, efficient and responsive to emerging challenges.Expanded wait time monitoring including moving to increased central oversight of wait time monitoring in public specialist outpatient clinics through the rollout of the Single Digital Patient Record. Emergency department wait time reporting measures have also been expanded to include quarterly reporting against new Hospital Access Targets.NSW’s fair share of Commonwealth fundingThe Health Inquiry made two sobering observations – the challenges in accessing primary care (GPs); and the lack of Commonwealth Government aged care and NDIS placements, are both placing tremendous pressure on state hospitals.State governments are responsible for hospitals, and we’re making record investments in the NSW public hospital system.Meanwhile, the Commonwealth is responsible for primary care, aged care and NDIS. The difficulty accessing these services however, are impacting state hospitals as people who are unable to find a GP end up presenting to emergency departments. Patients ready to be discharged lie waiting in hospital beds because they cannot access an aged care or NDIS placement.The NSW Government’s response makes it clear that it will continue to strongly advocate with fellow states and territories, for its fair share of health funding from the Commonwealth Government.Reforming the health systemThe Health Inquiry and the changes arising from it build on the NSW Government’s reform of the health system, delivering more staff, building more hospitals, delivering more beds, and beginning to turn around the long wait times – wait times that exploded under the Liberals who cut staff, delayed hospital construction, and planned to privatise hospitals.The NSW Government will continue to closely monitor progress and report on the implementation of the recommendations, which will benefit both the people who work for NSW Health and the communities they serve. The full NSW Government Response can be accessed here: Government Response to the Special Commission of Inquiry into Healthcare Funding (PDF).NSW Premier Chris Minns said, “We asked this Inquiry to tell us, honestly, what’s working in our health system and what isn’t – and now we can get on with improving it.”“This is about backing our health workers, planning properly for the future and making sure people can get care when and where they need it.”“Health workers are at the centre of this response. We want better data, better planning and better support so they can focus on what they do best – looking after patients.”Minister for Health Ryan Park said, “The completion of this inquiry and the Government’s response to it makes good on a core election commitment, first championed by the HSU, for a root and branch review of our health system.“Let me be clear, today’s response does not mark the end, but the beginning of a new chapter of reform that supports and empowers health workers; embraces preventative care; ensures hospitals meet the health needs of the community; and secures NSW’s fair share of health funding.“We know the Liberals are determined to brush over this health inquiry – but they cannot rewrite their history of cuts to wages; cuts to staff; and delays in delivering the hospitals and beds our community needs and deserves.”HSU Secretary, Gerard Hayes AM said, “I commend the response of the Minns Labor Government to this inquiry, it recognises the expertise of allied health and paramedics with the need to support these clinicians to work toward their full scope of practice. The Government is also supporting the need to replace outdated awards to recognise the critical role our members play in a modern health system.“Better data, stronger workforce planning and transparency measures are essential if NSW is going to address staff vacancies, tackle maldistribution and build a more sustainable workforce.“A health system that prioritises prevention, integration and the wellbeing of its own staff will not only be fairer, it is the only way to keep people well and stop pressure overwhelming the system.“The Health Services Union looks forward to continuing to work with the NSW Government in the new year on the implementation of the recommendations within this Report”

Australian gross domestic product (GDP) rose 0.4 per cent in the September quarter 2025 and 2.1 per cent compared to a year ago (seasonally adjusted, chain volume measure), according to figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).Grace Kim, ABS head of National Accounts, said: 'Economic growth was steady in the September quarter 2025. The rise this quarter matches the average quarterly growth since the end of the COVID‑19 Pandemic.’‘GDP per capita was flat for the quarter as economic growth was in line with population growth but remained 0.4 per cent higher than a year ago.’ Private investment growth driven by machinery and equipment for data centresPrivate investment contributed 0.5 percentage points to GDP growth in the September quarter. This was driven by machinery and equipment investment, which rose 7.6 per cent. This rise aligned with an increase in imports of capital goods. ‘The rise in machinery and equipment investment reflects the ongoing expansions of data centres. This is likely due to firms looking to support growth in artificial intelligence and cloud computing capabilities,’ Ms Kim said.Housing investment contributed 0.2 percentage points to GDP growth in the September quarter with a rise in dwelling construction and high real estate turnover due to increased investor demand for housing.Essential household spending rises as discretionary spending dropsHousehold spending rose 0.5 per cent in the September quarter following a 0.9 per cent rise in the June quarter. Essential spending was up 1.0 per cent, driven by payments for banking and superannuation services, electricity and health. Households shifted away from discretionary spending, down 0.2 per cent in the September quarter. This follows a strong rise in the June quarter with the impact of the extended Easter break and strong take up of end of financial year sales. Discretionary spending remained strong through the year, up 2.3 per cent. Public investment rebounds with investment in renewable energy and waterPublic investment rose 3.0 per cent in the September quarter, following a 3.5 per cent fall in the June quarter. Public corporations drove the rise, with investment growth in renewable energy, water, telecommunications and rail transport projects. State and local government investment grew 1.4 per cent in the quarter but remained 2.4 per cent lower than a year ago. Trade detracts from GDP growth as imports rise faster than exportsNet trade detracted 0.1 percentage points from GDP growth, with imports up 1.5 per cent, and exports up 1.0 per cent.The rise in imports was driven by fuels and lubricants (up 9.8 per cent) and capital goods (up 6.7 per cent). The rise in capital goods was driven by computer equipment linked to data centre expansions.The rise in exports was driven by growth in rural and non-rural goods. Services exports remained relatively unchanged.Mining profits grow with high exports despite a fall in productionMining profits increased 1.2 per cent in the September quarter. This reflects higher export prices and volumes for thermal coal and iron ore. Mining production fell with increased maintenance at both iron ore and LNG sites. Subsequently, firms ran down inventory stocks to meet export demand.This drove an overall rundown in inventories (down $1.9 billion), which detracted 0.5 percentage points from GDP growth.Household saving ratio risesThe household saving to income ratio rose to 6.4 per cent in the September quarter. This is up from 6.0 per cent in the June quarter. Gross disposable income rose 1.7 per cent, faster than the rise in nominal household spending of 1.4 per cent. The rise in gross disposable income was driven by higher compensation of employees and superannuation investment income, partly offset by income tax payable. The growth in compensation of employees was driven by minimum wage rises along with increased bonuses and redundancy payments in the private sector.Rooftop solar electricity now included in the National AccountsEstimates of rooftop solar electricity generation and consumption are now included in the Australian National Accounts. The inclusion of rooftop solar estimates in the National Accounts has had minimal impact on key aggregates such as GDP, but is notable in its components. Household solar accounted for approximately 8.0 per cent of total electricity production in 2024-25. Rooftop solar electricity production in 2024-25 has grown to be more than 20 times higher than 2010-11. Households consume around half of rooftop solar electricity they generate and send the remainder to the grid. Ms Kim added: ’Additional analysis, included in this release, showed that rooftop solar electricity saved households over 3 billion dollars in 2024-25.’See our Spotlight article: Household solar electricity generation in the Australian National Accounts, for more information.September quarter key figures, percentage changes (a)

NSW public schools have scored significantly above the national average in the 2025 NAPLAN assessment for the second year in a row. NSW public schools represent more than one-third of the 183 schools across Australia that scored above the national average in NAPLAN, with NSW schools achieving good results in all areas tested and across all year groups. Department of Education Secretary, Murat Dizdar, has congratulated NSW public sector teachers and school leaders on their strong NAPLAN performance. Mr Dizdar said the test results for NSW public schools showed that a focus on explicit teaching in public schools, backed by CESE’s What Works Best research, is having a positive impact. “NSW public schools will build on these results to ensure every student has the support they need to achieve their potential. “We know teachers are the single most important factor in improving student outcomes, and our relentless focus on supporting our teaching workforce with evidence-based professional learning will be critical in achieving this vision. “For students who require additional support, targeted initiatives like the permanent small group tuition program are helping improve literacy and numeracy standards.” The 2025 NAPLAN results and school-based data has been released by the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) on the My School website today. The data also includes the 2025 Schools Making a Difference list which highlights schools performing above expectations, compared with similar schools. They include public primary schools at Carlingford West, Artarmon, Chatswood, St Johns Park, Hurstville, Murray Farm, Matthew Pearce, Eastwood, Epping West, Girraween and Beecroft. Canley Vale High School has also been recognised. NSW public schools offer a first-class education, lifting student outcomes in literacy and numeracy and offering students the opportunities to excel in music, the arts, sports, debating and public speaking as part of our High Potential and Gifted Education program. The ACARA data also shows strong improvements in attendance across NSW schools. The proportion of students attending more than 90 per cent of the time increased four percentage points while daily student attendance lifted slightly to almost 88 per cent. Departmental data shows student absences decreased by nearly one million days, or nearly 10per cent, from 2024 to 2025.

The Low Methane Beef (LMB) project has reached a major milestone, releasing its first genomic Research Breeding Values (RBVs) for methane emissions in beef cattle.RBV’s refer to the initial release of alpha version breeding values. Once a pipeline to deliver breeding values via BREEDPLAN is built for methane, they will become Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) as part of routine analysis delivered via participating Breed Societies.This is a collaborative project between the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA), University of New England (UNE) and Angus Australia.NSW DPIRD Research Officer, Extensive Livestock, Dr Tom Granleese, said the goal of this project is to develop tools that enable methane emissions traits to be included in beef cattle breeding objectives.“Breeding for low methane emissions offers a practical and permanent solution to reducing emissions across the national beef herd,” Dr Granleese said.“The newly published RBVs estimate genetic differences in methane production under feedlot and pasture conditions.“Lower RBVs indicate animals expected to produce offspring that emit less methane than the current average. “Selecting for low methane genetics alongside profit-driving traits like growth and fertility can deliver cumulative, permanent reductions in emissions over generations.“This project now provides the first genomic RBVs for sires used in the program, which is a significant step forward, giving breeders the tools to make informed decisions.“This research paves the way for breeders to select animals that continue to be highly productive whilst also contributing to long-term reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.”Since its inception in 2022, the LMB project has recorded methane outputs from approximately 5000 animals in the Southern MultiBreed (SMB) and Angus Sire Benchmarking Project (ASBP) herds.   Measurements were taken on steers at UNE’s Tullimba feedlot and on heifers grazing NSW DPIRD research sites, using GreenFeed emissions monitoring systems.These measurements were collected alongside other performance traits. Together, these pieces of data have been used to develop RBVs for the sires included in the project. This represents the first step toward incorporating methane traits into routine genetic evaluations such as BREEDPLAN. Managing Director of Meat and Livestock Australia, Michael Crowley, said this milestone delivers an additional trait that enables producers to balance breeding objectives to deliver both environmental and productivity gains.“Reducing methane emissions is essential for the industry; it can now be considered alongside other profit-driving traits such as growth, fertility, and carcase quality,” Mr Crowley said.“These research breeding values currently apply to animals within the project cohorts. Further investment is underway to expand data collection across more animals, which will improve accuracy and enable these breeding values to be delivered routinely to industry.“The Low Methane Beef project is a great example of collaborative innovation, providing breeders with genomic tools that enable multi-trait selection and support long-term sustainability across the beef supply chain.”University of New England (UNE) Vice-Chancellor, Professor Chris Moran, said the presentation of the first genomic RBV’s for methane builds on UNE’s proud history of undertaking novel research to tackle the key challenges facing Australia’s livestock industry.“While these values are still in the research phase, their future commercial delivery through BREEDPLAN will give the beef industry the practical tools to reduce emissions,” Professor Moran said.“Delivering cutting-edge, industry-relevant research also underpins UNE’s mission of training world-leading agricultural and rural scientists who will continue to lead the way in measuring and reducing emissions in our national herd.”For more information on the Low Methane Beef projects, please visit the NSW DPIRD website – https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/dpi/about-us/research-and-development/projects/animals/low-methane-beef-project.

During this year’s 16 Days of Activism to End Gender-Based Violence, the NSW Government is shining a spotlight on the abuse of older women and women with disability. To equip frontline workers to detect and respond to abuse, the NSW Government has launched a suite of training modules and resources to address domestic, family and sexual violence (DFSV).Evidence from the Ageing and Disability Commission shows that almost two-thirds of reports received relate to the abuse of women. Women with disability are significantly more likely to experience violence. Ageing and Disability Commission data shows a 109 per cent rise in reports of abuse against older people and people with disability, with nearly 19,000 reports received over a five-year period to June 2024.The new DFSV materials provide frontline workers with free training and resources tailored to older women and women with disability, covering a range of topics:identifying signs of abuse, harmful attitudes and behaviourstips for documenting DFSVsafety planning supporting victim-survivors to reportresponding to disclosures of abuse and referral pathways.In a first for NSW, the Ageing and Disability Commission partnered with the NSW Women’s Safety Commissioner to develop the resources, consulting older women, women with disability and sector experts. These are designed to be used by frontline workers, advocates and other support workers in the disability, ageing, and/or DFSV sectors.Learn more about the DFSV resources on the Ageing and Disability Commission website.Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said, “No-one should be subjected to violence or abuse, especially not older women or women with disability.“But domestic, family and sexual violence is a horrifying reality for too many older women and women with disability, who face significantly higher rates of abuse.“The NSW government is committed to addressing this sickening issue. These resources equip frontline workers across the state, with the tools to recognise, refer and respond to this abuse. “I'm grateful to the Ageing and Disability Commissioner and the Women’s Safety Commissioner for collaborating on this important project, empowering communities to help reduce this insidious, un-Australian and often hidden, form of abuse.”Minister for Women, Seniors the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said, “The abuse of older persons and people with disability is unacceptable.“Older women are one of the most at-risk groups in NSW – with those over 65 more likely to face homelessness, financial abuse and domestic, family and sexual violence than men in the same age bracket.“Disturbingly, up to 80 per cent of assaults against older women reported to police each year are committed by someone they know.“These resources support frontline workers to identify the signs of domestic, family and sexual abuse of older persons and people with disability and provide guidance on how to respond to disclosures.“The NSW Government is working to reduce and eliminate violence against women, and earlier intervention and primary prevention are key to creating a safer community.” Department of Communities and Justice Secretary Michael Tidball said, “Frontline workers play a critical role in safeguarding their clients. These new resources give them practical tools and guidance to recognise abuse early and respond effectively, helping to create safer communities for older women and women with disability.“This is an important collaboration between the Ageing and Disability Commissioner and the Women's Safety Commissioner. Their combined expertise and efforts will help frontline workers make a difference to the lives of older women and women with disability who are at risk of abuse."Women’s Safety Commissioner Dr Hannah Tonkin said, “All women in NSW have the right to safety, dignity and autonomy. While domestic, family and sexual violence can be experienced by anyone, it disproportionately affects certain individuals and groups, including older women and women with disability.“This new suite of training resources has been developed to address this reality. The resources provide practical guidance about recognising the signs of abuse, safely responding to disclosures, and accessing appropriate reporting and referral pathways. Vitally, these resources are person centred, disability inclusive and trauma informed – they deserve to be widely used across NSW.”Ageing and Disability Commissioner Jeff Smith said, “Reports received by the ADC consistently show that older women and women with disability face a greater risk of experiencing domestic, family and sexual violence. Too often this violence is hidden, dismissed, or misunderstood. Many victim-survivors rely on their abuser for care, and speaking up can mean losing their home, their care, or their family. “These are not isolated stories; they are patterns we must recognise and address. Frontline workers hold a position of trust and are often the first to notice when something isn’t right. Our resources aim to guide frontline workers to spot abuse early, respond safely to disclosures and support women with dignity and respect.“Together, we can create safer, more inclusive environments and ensure safety, dignity, and choice for all women.”Older Women’s Network NSW CEO Yumi Lee said, “Ending violence against people with disability and older women is not just about protection, it's about recognition, respect, and justice. Training isn’t a box to tick — it’s how we change systems, challenge bias, and ensure no one is left unheard or unsafe.”  

The NSW Government has hosted the state’s first Policy Roundtable on Aboriginal Disaster Resilience, bringing together more than 100 Aboriginal leaders and organisations with government agencies to shape a more culturally informed and co-designed approach to disaster management.Held at Australian Hall in partnership with the National Indigenous Disaster Resilience (NIDR) program at Monash University on Thursday 27 November, the roundtable focused on sharing lived experiences, strengthening relationships and identifying practical opportunities to embed Aboriginal knowledge and leadership across preparedness, response and recovery.The Roundtable is a joint initiative of the NSW Reconstruction Authority, the Premier’s Department, Aboriginal Affairs NSW and NIDR, following similar gatherings held in Queensland, South Australia and Victoria. Insights from the day will directly inform the development of an Aboriginal Emergency Management Action Plan for NSW as well as ongoing work under the State Disaster Mitigation Plan.Participants heard from Indigenous knowledge holders, emergency management agencies and community representatives, with discussions centred on disaster impacts, cultural perspectives on resilience, gaps in current arrangements and priorities and pathways for long-term reform.The NSW Government continues to work closely with Aboriginal communities across the state to strengthen resilience, improve understanding of emergency management arrangements and support locally led approaches to preparedness and recovery.A summary of insights and recommendations from the roundtable will be provided to government and shared with participants.The State Disaster Mitigation Plan is a pioneering plan, the first of its kind in Australia, to reduce the risk of disasters in NSW. The Plan supports the state government’s commitment to making communities safer, more resilient and better prepared to face the challenges of disasters caused by natural hazards. Find out more about the Plan here - https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/nsw-reconstruction-authority/our-work/disaster-adaptation-plans/guidelines/state-disaster-mitigation-planMinister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said, “Aboriginal people have a deep connection to Country and know what solutions work best for their communities in responding to natural disasters.“We know there are better outcomes when Aboriginal organisations and people design, lead and implement solutions, in partnership with government.“This roundtable is an excellent example of Aboriginal people leading and Government learning in an area of critical importance.”Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said, “Aboriginal people bring deep knowledge, strength, and lived experience to disaster resilience. Today was about listening to communities who have endured repeated disasters and who know what works on their Country.“We recognise that government can do more. This roundtable is the first of many steps to ensure Aboriginal voices are at the centre of how we plan for and respond to disasters.“I am grateful to everyone who was a part of these important conversations. Their wisdom and leadership will guide how we build stronger, safer and more culturally grounded approaches across NSW.”NSW Reconstruction Authority Acting Chief Executive Officer Kate Meagher said, “We know some First Nations communities face unique risks and challenges in disasters. That means we have a responsibility to work in partnership to make sure emergency systems are accessible, culturally respectful and genuinely aligned with community needs and priorities.“Today’s roundtable is about creating space for practical, honest conversations, including what hasn’t worked in the past, so we can build better partnerships going forward.“The RA is committed to strengthening our engagement with Aboriginal organisations and knowledge holders across the State, and ensuring their insights help guide future planning, policy and investment.”NIDR program lead Associate Professor Bhiamie Williamson said, “This roundtable is about Aboriginal communities leading the conversation. First Nations people hold deep knowledge of resilience, recovery, and caring for Country. “By placing Aboriginal voices at the centre of disaster risk and reduction, we ensure government policies and funding to build resilience are not only inclusive but genuinely effective in protecting lives, culture, and heritage.”

The NSW Government has passed legislation ensuring people can continue attending their places of worship without being blocked, harassed or intimidated.Legislation passed NSW Parliament on Thursday afternoon, confirming police have the power to move on protesters who affect someone’s ability to enter or leave their place of worship.No one deserves to be blocked, harassed or intimidated while trying to attend their church, synagogue, temple or mosque.The change follows a recent Supreme Court decision affecting the move on powers.Importantly, this decision did not affect the offence of intentionally blocking, impeding, harassing, intimidating, or threatening a person accessing a place of worship.The Government has acted quickly to ensure police can still use move on powers to protect individuals trying to access their place of worship.These amendments balance community protection with the freedom of political expression.They are complemented by the suite of legislation the Government has introduced to protect the community from racial hatred, intimidation and harassment.Attorney General Michael Daley said, “No one should be harassed or intimidated trying to attend their church, synagogue, temple or mosque. This kind of behaviour is unacceptable and has no place in NSW.“Following the decision of the Supreme Court, we have reintroduced a move on power which balances community protection and the right to protest.“The Government has acted quickly to ensure NSW Police retains appropriate powers to move on protesters who affect someone’s ability to access or leave their place of worship.”

The biggest data centre in the Southern Hemisphere has been given the green light by the NSW Government, creating hundreds of jobs, supporting fast-growing demand for cloud storage and the booming digital economy.The $3.1 billion data centre from proponent CDC data centres will join 90 that are already up and running in NSW and will provide reliable infrastructure for computing needs of the community, governments and businesses across Australia and the Asia Pacific region.The facility is at Marsden Park in Sydney’s north-west, approximately 36 kilometres from the centre of Sydney.It will also provide a major boost to Western Sydney’s economy, generating 220 construction jobs and 265 operational jobs.Despite its size, the centre is also leading the way in green technology, incorporating advanced sustainability and energy efficiency measures to reduce water and energy use.Its power usage will be among the most efficient in the world for data centres, as CDC Data Centres plans to source energy from renewable energy providers, with the aim to minimise greenhouse gas emissions from the development by up to 99 per cent by 2030. The development will also target a Water Usage Effectiveness measure (WUE) of 0.01 through an air-based cooling system that includes chilled water, which is reused. That means for every 1 kilowatt-hour (kWh) of energy consumed by the facility, it uses only 0.01 litres of water.When assessing the proposal, the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure made sure the applicant carefully addressed issues such as operational noise, air quality and bulk and scale.The proposal was approved in 12 months, representing an efficient and timely assessment process for this critical modern-day infrastructure. The NSW Government is driving further major investments and innovations, like this project, through the Investment Delivery Authority (IDA), which was set up to accelerate approvals for major projects across all industries, including advanced technologies and energy.Since opening expressions of interest in September, the IDA has received 48 proposals worth $136 billion, including 23 projects related to data centres and technology.Treasurer for New South Wales, Daniel Mookhey, said, “Approval of the largest data centre for the Southern Hemisphere is an exciting step forward for digital infrastructure in NSW and Australia.“This project will support the booming digital economy while also creating hundreds of jobs through both construction and operation, delivering more high-tech employment opportunities close to home for workers in Sydney’s west.”Minister for Planning and Public Places Paul Scully said, “This $3.1 billion hyperscale data centre will be a powerhouse for Australia’s future digital economy and is a great example of digital infrastructure being delivered sustainably.“The complex will create hundreds of jobs and provide sovereign infrastructure to make sure our most important data stays safe, and our systems stay strong.“Whether it’s modelling climate change, running complex financial systems or just helping individuals to search and create, this facility will give people the tools they need to work faster and smarter.”Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said, “This is a great example of the vibrant and dynamic innovation sector that NSW is fostering.“With their strong capabilities in enabling complex and powerful computing tasks, centres like this one are crucial to supporting businesses and individuals across our state.“Investments like this are crucial to cementing NSW as the innovation powerhouse of Australia and the Southern Hemisphere.”

A woman has died following a shark attack on the Mid North Coast this morning.About 6.30am (Thursday, 27 November 2025), emergency services were called to a beach at Crowdy Bay, east of Taree, following reports that two people had been bitten by a shark.Witnesses assisted the pair prior to the arrival of NSW Ambulance paramedics; however, the woman died at the scene.The woman – believed to be aged in her 20s – is yet to be formally identified.The man, also believed to be aged in his 20s, sustained serious injuries and has been airlifted to the John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition.The beach has been closed, and officers attached to Manning/Great Lakes Police District will liaise with experts from the Department of Primary Industries to determine the species of shark involved.A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Child Abuse Squad detectives have charged an outdoor recreation instructor over the alleged sexual assault of three students at a school camp.Police allege that between Thursday, 23 October and Friday, 24 October 2025, an 18-year-old instructor inappropriately touched three 11-year-old girls while checking their harnesses during a number of camp activities.The investigation commenced in November 2025 after a report of the alleged conduct was made to officers from the State Crime Command’s Child Abuse Squad.About 11.10am yesterday (Tuesday 25 November 2025), detectives attended an address in Harrington Park where they arrested an 18-year-old man.The man was taken to Camden Police Station, where he was charged with thirteen counts of intentionally sexually touch child >= 10 yrs & < 16 yrs.He was refused bail and appeared in Bail Division Local Court 3 today (Wednesday, 26 November 2025), where he was formally refused bail to appear in Campbelltown Local Court on Tuesday, 12 December 2025.If you feel you have been a victim of a crime such as this, contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.