NSW Premier Chris Minns has announced that the family of John Laws has accepted the offer of a State Funeral Service.The State Funeral will be held at 1.30pm on Wednesday, 19 November 2025, at St Andrew’s Cathedral, Sydney.John Laws was a towering figure in Australian radio whose voice resonated across the nation for more than seven decades.John’s career was extraordinary. Few broadcasters have left such a deep and lasting mark on Australian media.His family accepted the NSW Government’s offer of a State Funeral, following his death at home on Sunday, aged 90.Beginning in 1953 at Bendigo’s 3BO and later becoming a household name on Sydney stations such as 2UE and 2SM, his distinctive tone earned him the affectionate title ‘Golden Tonsils’. On behalf of the NSW Government, I extend my deepest condolences to John’s family, friends, colleagues, and all who listened, learned and were challenged by him. His legacy lies not only in the thousands of hours on air, but in the connection he forged with millions of Australians.More details on the State Funeral will be available in the coming days online at NSW Government State Services.

The NSW Government is unveiling its largest Christmas celebrations yet, with the Harbour City set to launch the 2025 Festive Season and a range of new and expanded events, cementing Sydney as the ultimate Summer Christmas and New Year’s destination. Locals and visitors alike will be invited to experience the city’s unique, vibrant summer holiday spirit, with Sydney set to sparkle with a packed calendar of dazzling events, cultural showcases, and community celebrations.The 2025 Sydney Festive Season will deliver the city’s largest Christmas celebrations with an expanded program of major events and activations across the city that will officially begin on 27 November with Santa’s Sydney Sleigh Ride and the lighting of the Martin Place Christmas Tree, presented by the City of Sydney. Tumbalong Park at Darling Harbour will play host to a major expanded Christmas Festival for 2025 with an even bigger free family concert, expanded children’s entertainment zones and the return of Santa’s grand arrival. Expect a larger main stage program featuring combined school choirs alongside headline performers. Schools can submit their interest in performing on the big stage here www.darlingharbour.com/competitions/call-for-choirs-perform-at-the-darling-harbour-chrChristmas at the Cathedral will be more than double the size in 2025. The nightly forecourt market will feature exciting new food and gift stall options, new lighting and projection installations will bring the Cathedral façade to life, and an expanded program of choirs and live performances. Visitors can gather for nine nights of food, music and community celebration in the lead-up to Christmas.The Rocks Markets: Christmas Edition returns with additional festive night trading sessions and more stallholders specialising in handmade gifts, local design and seasonal treats. The precinct will also be buzzing with an enhanced summer music program and relaxed picnic-style spaces overlooking the harbour.The inaugural Cockle Bay Christmas Spectacular will launch with a water performance featuring stunt elements plus a pre-show program of live music and roving performers. A White Bay Christmas will transform the White Bay Power Station, offering festive orchestral concerts and an expanded artisan market in the Boiler House and Turbine Hall. Visitors can explore stalls featuring local makers and enjoy performances by the Sydney Youth Orchestra in one of Sydney’s most atmospheric heritage settings. Importantly for families, all events are free to attend.Sydney’s unique festive period is a key, high-profile holiday season that the city is known for offering a warm, Australian twist on traditional celebrations. Barangaroo and The Rocks will be getting a Christmas makeover, with wreaths, bells and Christmas trees set to fill the public domains.These new and improved events will be supported by Christmas classics, including The Salvation Army’s Carols in the Domain, and the Martin Place Tree.A bumper Christmas crowd will be followed by a summer of major events, ensuring Sydney remains the place to be throughout the holiday season.Key NSW Government-supported events include:Back to the Future: The Musical Sydney International Art Series – Data Dreams: Art in the Age of AI at the Museum of Contemporary Art (21 Nov 2025 – 26 Apr 2026) and Ron Mueck at the Art Gallery of NSW (6 Dec 2025 – 12 Apr 2026)Sydney to Hobart Yacht RaceUnited Cup (3–11 Jan 2026)Sydney New Year’s Test Match (4–8 Jan 2026)Sydney Festival (8–25 Jan 2026)Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said, “Sydney’s Christmas celebrations just keep getting bigger and better. This year we’re unwrapping our most exciting festive season yet with more events, more lights, and more free ways for families to celebrate together.“Only in Sydney can you celebrate Christmas under the stars, by the harbour, and on the beach. Our expanded summer program captures that unique spirit while driving even more visitors into our city.”Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said, “No one does Christmas quite like Australia, and there is no better place to experience a classic Aussie Christmas than Sydney.“We are bringing back the festive spirit to make sure our Christmas celebrations are bigger and better than years before. “We want to see our city humming with local and international visitors, and to do that, we need to give them a reason to travel.”Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said, “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas as our iconic Harbour precincts prepare to put on a bumper schedule of events filled with plenty of free festive cheer. “Whether you’re looking for free family fun like live entertainment or to find unique Christmas gifts to put under the tree we’ve got you covered. “I look forward to seeing merrymakers coming together this holiday season to enjoy our great open spaces and the free Christmas bonanza.” 

The NSW Government is delivering more than $23 million in targeted funding to address youth crime and improve community safety across regional New South Wales.The new investment focuses on two key priorities: breaking the cycle of reoffending among young people on bail and preventing at-risk youth from entering the justice system in the first place.It bolsters support in high-priority regional communities for bail supervision, intensive case management, and early intervention and diversion.Since April 2024, the NSW Government has rolled out targeted strategies like NSW Police Operation Soteria, tougher bail laws, and pilot interventions in Moree, Riverina and Western Sydney.While there is still work to do, we are seeing encouraging signs. The June 2025 BOCSAR quarterly update on NSW Recorded Crime Statistics revealed that, in the two years to June 2025, young people proceeded against to court declined significantly by 12.3 per cent in regional NSW.Despite progress, regional communities in NSW still face higher crime rates than cities. Moree, Tamworth and Kempsey in particular continue to experience higher than average rates of youth crime, and those towns receive targeted funding in this package.The funding package includes:$12 million to continue place-based responses in Moree and expand responses in Tamworth and KempseyThe NSW Government will work beside the local communities to identify local services and mechanisms that help young people engaging, or at risk of engaging, in crime.The funding will enable local leaders and service providers to co-design prevention and diversion programs that work for their communities such as youth hubs, after-hours activities, intensive family supports, intervention programs and alternative education pathways.This will provide a vital intervention point for the most vulnerable young offenders, offering residential supervision and programs delivered by local partnerships.These towns have strong communities and an appetite to support their young people and tackle youth crime – the place-based NSW Government funding will look to capitalise on this.$6.3 million to provide intensive bail supervision and support for young peopleThe NSW Government will invest $6.3 million to go towards intensive bail supervision and support, including:Five caseworkers – continuation of one based in Moree, and an additional two based in Tamworth and two in Kempsey to support young people on bail to prevent persistent offending and better understand their legal orders.More regular check-ins with young people on bail, helping young kids comply with their bail conditions and connect them to positive supports to reduce the risk of them falling back into the same situations and patterns of behaviour.Completion of the Moree Bail Accommodation Service— a safe, supervised facility to remove vulnerable young people from high-risk situations and provide structured programs and guidance.A site for the Bail Accommodation Program in Moree has been secured, and Youth Justice is due to take possession next month.We have already increased bail support and after-hours services in Moree while this work continues.$5 million for a new Community Safety Investment FundA further $5 million will establish a new Community Safety Investment Fund, open to community and non-government organisations across NSW.The fund will back innovative and potentially scalable local initiatives that prevent or respond to youth offending, strengthen families, and build safer, more cohesive communities.The fund recognises that many communities need support, particularly in regional areas.This fund is open to organisations across NSW and will prioritise applications targeting areas with the highest demonstrated needs and service gaps. Building safer regional communitiesEveryone deserves to be safe in their home, in their communities, including in our regional towns.When serious crimes occur, there must be consequences. But we also want to give young people every chance to turn their lives around — by supporting them, their families, and the communities that shape them.The government knows there is still more to do. This funding package builds on the strong steps the NSW Government has already taken, including:tougher bail laws for repeat offenders;a ‘post and boast’ offence targeting online glorification of crime;$13.4 million for Moree’s targeted response;$5.5 million for youth diversion and violence reduction programs;paid police recruits to boost frontline numbers;stronger knife laws under Jack’s Law; andthe release of the Doli Incapax review to guide future reform.NSW Premier Chris Minns said, “This package is about giving local people the tools they need to turn things around for their young people.”“These are complex issues that won’t be solved overnight, but we are in this for the long haul.”“What we don’t want to see is young people wrapped up in the justice system again and again, which is why this package is a balance of intervention, prevention and wrap around support measures.”NSW Minister for Police, Yasmin Catley said, “The NSW Police are working day in, day out to address youth crime and steer kids towards making better choices - they are doing everything the police can do.“We know we can’t arrest our way out of this, which is why the Government is working to help break the cycle by implementing targeted diversionary programs and addressing the root drivers of this offending.“I’ve visited regional towns right across NSW and the message is clear - everyone wants to feel safe in their community and for kids to have the best possible chance at a good life and the Minns Labor Government will continue to work hard to deliver exactly that.”NSW Minister for Youth Justice Jihad Dib said, “We have said before that serious offending needs to have consequences, but this government also wants to support young people to fulfil their potential - this means supporting their families and communities as well, often at a local level.“This funding package reflects how we are working to help young people not to commit a crime in the first place, by funding locally based programs co-developed with local people, that can make a real difference by offering viable alternative pathways within communities.”NSW Attorney General Michael Daley said, “The NSW Government is investing in measures to reduce crime and the drivers of crime. We have already undertaken significant legislative reform to help keep our communities safe.“This includes targeting ‘post and boast’ offenders, strengthening knife laws, and raising the bail threshold for young people accused of repeat car theft and break and enter offences.“But we know there is more to do, which is why we’re continuing to consider a review of doli incapax, which presumes children under 14 cannot be held criminally responsible.”

Public sector employee jobs rose 3.3 per cent between June 2024 and June 2025, while wages increased 7.6 per cent , according to figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).Sean Crick, ABS head of labour statistics, said: ‘Wages paid to public sector employees totalled $249.5 billion in the 2024-25 financial year across all levels of government. This was an increase of 7.6 per cent, slightly less than the 8.0 per cent annual growth seen in 2023-24.’‘The rise in the public sector wage bill reflected a combination of underlying wage growth driven by new enterprise agreements and growth in employment.‘State government continued to be the largest employer of public sector employees, making up 77 per cent of public sector employment. This was followed by the Commonwealth government (15 per cent) and Local government (8 per cent).’ Commonwealth government employee jobs rose 5.6 per cent to 385,900 for June 2025. Wages paid by the Commonwealth government in 2024-25 was $40.9 billion, a rise of 9.5 per cent compared to the 10.0 per cent rise in 2023-24.State government employee jobs rose by 2.9 per cent, to almost 2.0 million jobs for June 2025. Wages paid by state and territory governments was $191.1 billion for 2024-25 (+7.3 per cent), compared to the 7.6 per cent rise in 2023-24.Local government employee jobs rose 2.1 per cent to 218,000 for June 2025 and wages paid in 2024-25 rose to $17.6 billion (6.9 per cent), compared with a 7.3 per cent rise the year before.‘The public sector is concentrated in three key industries: Public administration and safety, Education and training, and Health care and social assistance. Together, these three industries make up nearly 90 per cent of public sector employee jobs and wages.‘Of these three industries, Public administration and safety had the highest growth in both employee jobs and wages.’ Mr Crick said.Public administration and safety employee jobs rose by 31,200 (3.7 per cent) to 880,600 between June 2024 and June 2025. This was followed by Health care and social assistance, which rose by 26,300 employee jobs (4.1 per cent), to 668,600. Education and training increased by 14,400 employee jobs (1.9 per cent) to 768,300.For 2024-25, Public administration and safety wages increased by $6.8 billion (8.1 per cent) to $90.2 billion. This was followed by Health care and social assistance, which increased $4.5 billion (7.3 per cent) to $66.2 billion. Education and training increased $3.5 billion (6.0 per cent) to $61.4 billion.‘Electricity, gas, water and waste services saw the strongest growth outside of the main public sector industries, with a 6.5 per cent rise in employee jobs to reach 66,400 jobs, and a 17.7 per cent rise in wages to $9.1 billion.’ Mr Crick said.

Two stores in St Leonards are the first illicit tobacco stores to be closed under the NSW Government’s tough new laws targeting illicit tobacco and illegal vaping. These stores have been shut down immediately for 90 days under the laws targeting illicit tobacco and illegal vaping.NSW Health now has substantial powers to make short-term closure orders of up to 90 days for premises selling illicit tobacco, illegal vaping goods, or selling tobacco without a licence.The Local Court may, on application by the NSW Health Secretary, make a long-term closure order of up to 12 months if satisfied a relevant breach has occurred.NSW Health inspectors are being supported by NSW police to carry out raids and issue closure orders on offending businesses.NSW Health inspectors found and seized 3,860 illicit cigarettes and 224 illegal vapes while implementing the Closure Order at two premises and during inspections of a further two premises. Further investigations will follow and further enforcement action including prosecution may take place. In addition to the tough new closure powers, the state government’s changes to the Public Health (Tobacco) Act increased the maximum penalties for anyone caught selling products without a valid licence to $660,000 for individuals, and $880,000 for a corporation.The Act also increased penalties for the sale of illicit tobacco and introduced a new offence for the commercial possession of illicit tobacco, with these offences now carrying maximum penalties of up to $1.54 million, 7 years imprisonment, or both.From 1 Jan 2025 to 27 October 2025, NSW Health Inspectors conducted around 1,260 retailer inspections and seized more than 11.8 million cigarettes, over 2,000kg of other illicit tobacco products and around 170,000 illegal vaping goods with a combined estimated street value of around $18.9 millionIn the period 1 January to 27 October 2025, the NSW Ministry of Health has finalised 17 prosecutions with the courts imposing a total of $597,200 in fines related to e-cigarette and tobacco offences. There are currently 28 prosecutions, inclusive of the District Court appeal before the Courts.NSW retailers and wholesalers are now required to hold a valid licence to sell tobacco or non-tobacco smoking products as part of the new NSW Tobacco Licensing Scheme.Businesses can apply for a licence online using their MyServiceNSW account via the Service NSW website.Applicants are required to complete an annual online application, provide a recent criminal records check and pay the licence fee.Businesses can get support to submit their licence application by calling the Tobacco Information Line on 1800 357 412.More information on closure orders and penalties can be found on the NSW Health website: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/tobacco/Pages/tobacco-retailing-laws.aspxMore information on the new Tobacco Licensing Scheme, including how retailers and wholesalers can apply for a licence, can be found on the NSW Health website: NSW tobacco licensing scheme.Minister for Health, Ryan Park, said, “I can confirm that today we have begun raiding and temporarily shutting down a number of shopfronts suspected of not complying with our tough new tobacco and vaping laws.“To be sure, this will take some time as we ramp up our closure activities, but this is just the beginning. More will follow in the coming days, weeks and months. “If you’re doing the wrong thing, sooner or later we will come for you.”Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant said, “The new penalties and closure powers are an important step forward in reducing the appeal and availability of these products.“Tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of preventable death and disease in our community. The new closure powers are another key tool to ensure we act swiftly and gain stronger oversight of the illicit tobacco and illegal trade to help protect public health.” 

The Centre for Invasive Species Solutions (CISS) will lead a five-year, $5.9m project funded by the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund via a national weed biocontrol consortium comprising CSIRO, Queensland’s Department of Primary Industries, Agriculture Victoria and NSW’s Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.The ‘Nation-wide Weed Biocontrol Mass-Rearing and Release Network for Enhanced Drought Resilience in Australia’s Agricultural Landscapes’ initiative is one of eight projects under the Future Drought Fund’s commitment to improving landscape function and ecosystem services for drought-resilient farms and landscapes.African boxthorn, prickly acacia, horehound, various cactus species and three aquatic weeds – cabomba, sagittaria and salvinia – are the species prioritised for biocontrol due to their impact on Australia’s agricultural productivity, biodiversity and drought resilience. Aside from horehound, all are Weeds of National Significance.The project will support the mass-rearing, release and monitoring of nine biocontrol agents – from a rust fungus to longhorn beetles and cochineal bugs to gall thrips – aimed at suppressing these invasive weeds and improving pasture quality, water security and environmental values ahead of future drought conditions.CISS’s Chief Executive Officer, Shauna Chadlowe, said, “We’re incredibly grateful to the Australian Government and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry for their leadership and significant investment through the Future Drought Fund. Their support is what makes this ground-breaking project possible.”“We’re also proud to be working with this group of outstanding delivery partners who bring not only technical expertise but also financial and in-kind support, which lifts the total resources to drive this national collaboration to $11m.”“For the first time in Australia, this project will establish a nationally coordinated, multi-jurisdictional consortium of partners to fast-track delivery of weed biocontrol agents through an Australia-wide biocontrol agent mass-rearing, release, monitoring and evaluation network.”“This project maximises on-ground outcomes by fast-tracking and upscaling the release of approved biocontrol agents and biocontrol research capability, facilities, and stakeholder networks.”“The weeds targeted by this project are among the worst in Australia – they degrade landscapes, threaten biodiversity, and reduce productivity. Some, like African boxthorn, with its harsh spikes, impacts graziers by preventing livestock from accessing water points. Others, like cabomba, sagittaria and salvinia choke irrigation channels and waterways, adding stress in times of drought when water resources are already scarce.”“We’re proud to lead this ambitious project alongside our delivery partners. It brings together cutting-edge science, national coordination and bold thinking to deliver smarter, more sustainable solutions for tackling invasive weeds and strengthening Australia’s drought resilience,” said Ms Chadlowe.NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Dr Andrew McConnachie, Research Leader Weed Biocontrol, said, “This vital funding marks a significant step forward in protecting Australian landscapes and water systems from the devastating impacts of invasive weeds like Hudson pear, salvinia, cabomba, and sagittaria.” “By investing in biocontrol, we’re not only safeguarding biodiversity and agricultural productivity, but also building resilience against future droughts. These weeds threaten water availability and ecosystem health, and this initiative ensures we’re better prepared for the challenges ahead.”

The Federal Government is making the single largest investment in Medicare since its creation over 40 years ago, with our $8.5 billion package, as it aims to deliver on its commitment for more bulk billing and more doctors for all Australians.For the first time, bulk billing incentives will be paid to GPs for every patient they bulk bill. Previously, these incentives were only available to children under 16 and concession card holders.The government’s investment will deliver an additional 18 million bulk-billed GP visits every year.The government says this will mean 9 out of 10 GP visits will be bulk-billed by 2030, boosting the number of fully bulk-billed practices to around 4,800 nationally – triple the current number.Already over 1,000 GP practices that were previously mixed billing have signed up to become fully bulk billing practices. This is on top of the 1,600 GP practices that are currently fully bulk-billing. This means that over 2,600 GP practices are expected to become fully bulk billing practices around the country.Australian patients and families will save hundreds of dollars a year in out-of-pocket costs, with patient savings of $859 million a year by 2030.The government claims It is now easier to find a bulk-billed GP appointment, with all Australians now eligible for bulk-billing incentives.GP practices can calculate how much they will be better off and register for BBPIP by visiting health.gov.au/BBPIP.Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, “Labor built Medicare, and now we’re strengthening it and improving health care for all Australians.“No Australian should have to check their bank balance to see if they can afford to see a doctor. That is not who we are. That is not the future we want for Australia. “We’re delivering more bulk billing for every Australian, making it easier to see a doctor and saving families money. “Delivering on this election commitment lifts up our entire nation and ensures no one is held back, and no one is left behind.”Minister for Health and Ageing Mark Butler said, “I want every Australian to know they only need their Medicare card, not their credit card, to receive the health care they need. “Every electorate in the country will now have GP practices that bulk bill every patient. “After a decade of cuts and neglect from the Coalition bulk billing was in freefall.“These investment builds on the three largest boosts to Medicare rebates in decades.“Bulk billing is the beating heart of Medicare and that’s what the Albanese Government is delivering.”

A man has been charged after drugs and more than $200,000 were seized after a vehicle search in the state’s Mid North Coast yesterday.Emergency services were called to the Pacific Highway, Macksville, about 8.20pm yesterday (Wednesday, 28 October 2025), after an SUV crashed into a guard rail.Officers attached to Mid North Coast Police District attended and found the driver – a 47-year-old man – uninjured.Following inquiries, the driver was searched, with police allegedly locating and seizing $2670 cash, MDMA and methylamphetamine.A subsequent vehicle search was conducted with police seizing two Rolex watches, $229,300 cash and drug paraphernalia. The vehicle was also seized for forensic examination.The 47-year-old man was arrested and taken to Kempsey Police Station, where he was charged with five offences.- Negligent driving- Possess prohibited drug- Deal with property proceeds of crime greater than $100000- Supply prohibited drug greater than indictable and less than commercial quantity, and- Possession of equipment for administering prohibited drugs.He has been refused bail to appear before Bail Division - Court 1 today (Wednesday, 29 October 2025).

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 1.3 per cent in the September 2025 quarter and 3.2 per cent annually, according to the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).Michelle Marquardt, ABS head of prices statistics, said: ‘The CPI rose 1.3 per cent in the September 2025 quarter, which is the highest quarterly rise since March 2023. The largest contributor to this quarterly movement was Electricity costs, which rose by 9.0 per cent.’Annual inflation to the September 2025 quarter was 3.2 per cent, up from 2.1 per cent to the June 2025 quarter. ‘This is the highest annual inflation rate since the June 2024 quarter when annual inflation was 3.8 per cent,’ Ms Marquardt said.All groups CPI, Australia, quarterly and annual movement (%)When prices for some items move by large amounts, measures of underlying inflation like the trimmed mean can give more insights into how inflation is trending. ’Trimmed mean annual inflation was 3.0 per cent to the September quarter, up from 2.7 per cent to the June quarter. This is the first time Trimmed mean annual inflation has increased since December 2022,’ Ms Marquardt said.All groups CPI Trimmed mean, Australia, annual movement (%)Quarterly CPI inflationThe main contributors to the quarterly rise were Housing (+2.5 per cent), Recreation and culture (+1.9 per cent) and Transport (+1.2 per cent).The rise in Electricity costs (+9.0 per cent) was a significant contributor to the growth in Housing inflation this quarter.There were two main contributors to the quarterly rise in electricity costs:Annual electricity price reviews came into effect from July 2025 and increased electricity prices across all capital cities.The timing of when some households received rebates also had a large impact. The Commonwealth Energy Bill Relief Fund (EBRF) rebates were extended for 6 months from July 2025 to December 2025. However, households in NSW and ACT did not receive payments of the extended EBRF in July. Payment of rebates for households in NSW and ACT commenced in August. Households that did not receive the EBRF rebate in July will receive two payments in October 2025.Recreation and culture rose by 1.9 per cent, driven by a 2.9 per cent rise in Holiday travel and accommodation. The school holiday periods in July and late September contributed to increases in domestic accommodation and airfare prices. Higher demand for international travel to Europe, where it was peak travel season, led to price increases for airfares and tours.Transport was up 1.2 per cent this quarter driven by a 2.0 per cent rise in Automotive fuel prices.Annual inflation measuresAnnually, the CPI rose 3.2 per cent, up from 2.1 per cent last quarter. The main contributor to the increase in annual inflation was a 23.6 per cent rise in Electricity costs.The annual rise in electricity costs is primarily related to households in Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania having higher out-of-pocket costs in September quarter 2025 than they did in September quarter 2024. In September quarter last year, State Government electricity rebates were in place for Queensland ($1,000), Western Australia ($400) and Tasmania ($250). Over the year, those rebates have been used up and those programs have finished. Excluding the rebates, electricity prices would have risen by 5.9 per cent in the last 12 months following annual price reviews.Electricity Index, Australia (June 2023 quarter = 100.0)Food and non-alcoholic beverages annual inflation was 3.1 per cent to the September quarter. ‘Food inflation continues to be elevated due to higher prices for Meals out and takeaway foods, up 3.3 per cent compared to 12 months ago. ‘Other notable price rises over the past 12 months included the 14.6 per cent rise for Coffee, tea and cocoa. This reflects lower supply from major overseas suppliers of coffee beans,’ Ms Marquardt said.Annual Goods inflation was 3.0 per cent, up from 1.1 per cent in the previous quarter This was due mainly to electricity (23.6 per cent), while automotive fuel prices had less of a detraction in the 12 months to the September quarter (-1.6 per cent) compared to the June quarter (-10.0 per cent). Annual Services inflation was 3.5 per cent to the September quarter, up from 3.3 per cent to the June quarter. Higher prices for Rents (+3.8 per cent) and Medical and hospital services (+5.1 per cent) were the main contributors to Services inflation. CPI Goods and Services components, annual movement (%)Monthly CPI indicatorToday the ABS also released the September 2025 monthly CPI indicator, which rose 3.5 per cent in the 12 months to September. This is up from 3.0 per cent in the 12 months to August. The most significant contributors to the rise were Housing (+5.6 per cent), Food and non-alcoholic beverages (+3.1 per cent), and Alcohol and tobacco (+5.5 per cent).

Spending on health goods and services increased by $2.8 billion to $270.5 billion during 2023–24, equating to $10,037 per person and 10.1% of the gross domestic product (GDP).  The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) has today released three (3) new reports: Health expenditure Australia 2023–24, Health system spending on disease and injury in Australia 2023–24 and Health system spending per case of disease and for certain risk factors. The reports collectively provide a comprehensive overview of health spending in Australia by area of spending, sources of funding and trends over time.  ‘The AIHW has been reporting on national health expenditure for over 3 decades, helping us understand the health system and its relationship to the economy as a whole,’ said AIHW spokesperson Geoff Callaghan.  Total health spending was 1.1% higher than in 2022–23 after adjusting for inflation, while spending dropped by 1.3% on a per-person basis. This can be attributed to modest health spending growth and a sharp rise in population following the COVID-19 pandemic.  ‘Spending from non-government sources, including individuals and private health insurance providers, increased by 3.7% in real terms, driving the overall increase in health expenditure,’ said Mr Callaghan.  ‘While federal and state governments together funded almost 70% of total health expenses, overall government spending decreased by 0.1% in 2023–24 due to lower public health spending in the post-pandemic period.’  Of the $270.5 billion spent, the Australian Government provided $106.2 billion, and state and territory governments provided $82.0 billion.   Health spending as a percentage of total government expenditure has remained similar, decreasing marginally from 17.1% to 16.8% in 2023–24.  Primary health care spending fell by 0.5% to $89.1 billion, mainly due to lower government expenditure on public health , such as COVID-19 vaccines and rapid antigen tests.  Hospital expenditure increased by 1.2% to $113.8 billion, driven by increased hospitalisations and patient admissions.   Disease and injury-related spending  Of the $180.4 billion in health spending that could be directly attributed to disease and injury in 2023–24, the three highest-cost disease groups were cancer ($19.7 billion), cardiovascular diseases ($16.9 billion) and musculoskeletal disorders ($16.3 billion).   Cancer has been the most expensive disease group since 2017–18, accounting for around 10% of spending each year, with spending doubling since 2013–14.  Cancer also had the highest burden of disease in 2023–24, while mental health and substance abuse had the second highest burden but ranked seventh in terms of spending.  Spending per case of disease and for certain risk factors  Total health system spending attributable to potentially avoidable risk factors was $38.0 billion in 2023–24. The top risk factors contributing to health spending were overweight and obesity at $7.0 billion.  Cancer and other neoplasms were the disease group with the highest average spending per case at $17,000, while acute lymphoblastic leukaemia had the most spending per case of all diseases ($0.5 million per case).   

Today, the first jet landed at Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton), marking a major milestone in the Airport’s history. There will also be the first multiagency emergency exercise held as part of the ongoing testing process ahead of its 2026 opening, a full-scale aerodrome emergency response to a simulated aircraft incident. The exercise will be held over two days, kicked off by the landing of the NSW Rural Fire Service 737 aircraft, the most significant testing of the new airport to date. The airport’s preparedness, response and recovery capabilities will be tested, ensuring the airport meets the certification processes required ahead of opening. Over 300 volunteer and emergency services personnel from NSW will participate, alongside federal agencies including Airservices, the Australian Federal Police and Australian Border Force. The delivery of Western Sydney Airport showcases the Albanese Government’s commitment to shaping the local region and greater Sydney for decades to come. The Government has invested $5.6 billion to date into the project, which upon opening will create thousands of additional jobs. This is in addition to the 12,224 supported to date. Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King, said, “This is a historic moment for Western Sydney International Airport, as this jet touches down on the brand new runway.” “A lot of hard work has led up to this moment, from the earlier days of construction to now rigorous testing to become operationally ready.” “This project has taken decades of planning, created thousands of jobs and millions of hours of work. This is a clear indicator of the Albanese Government investing in Western Sydney and its future.” “Already attracting significant investment into region, the airport’s future operations are also set to create thousands of jobs, on top of the 12,224 supported to date – over half of which were people from the local area.” NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib, said, “This is an important milestone for NSW, the landing of the RFS Marie Bashir aircraft at the new Western Sydney International Airport is the beginning of many years of showcasing south-western Sydney to the world.” “This is a proud day for our emergency services personnel and, in particular, the Rural Fire Service, who’ve been given the honour of landing the first jet here at the new airport.”“Importantly, our emergency services are testing their capabilities to demonstrate they are ready to respond and work with their airport colleagues to protect passengers using this airport when passenger flights begin.”

Two people have died in an explosion this morning at an underground mine in the state’s Far West.Emergency services were called to the mine on Endeavour Mine Road at Cobar, about 450km east of Broken Hill, about 3.45am (Tuesday, 28 October 2025), after being told two people had been critically injured in a workplace incident.Officers attached to Central North Police District arrived and were told a man had been confirmed dead after the underground explosion.Two women were brought to the surface; however, one has since died. The second woman has now been airlifted to hospital, suffering hearing damage and shock.Emergency services remain at the scene. Police will prepare a report for the Coroner and assist SafeWork NSW in its investigation.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to 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.

The NSW Government is encouraging the community to help spread the message this GambleAware Week, that with gambling, there’s more to lose than money; it can also affect health, relationships and wellbeing.Running from today, 20 October to 26 October, this year’s campaign is also focusing on promoting the range of free and confidential support available to those struggling with gambling harm. In addition, the NSW Government is continuing its campaign to reduce the amount of sports betting advertising with its Reclaim the Game initiative, delivered in partnership with 19 NSW sporting clubs from six codes: the A-League, AFL, Cricket, the National Basketball League, Netball and the National Rugby League. This includes the Sydney Kings and the Illawarra Hawks men’s basketball teams, along with the Sydney Flames women’s basketball team. All three teams have just signed up for a further two seasons.Sports betting is most common among young people aged 18-24 years. A 2024 NSW Gambling Survey found sports and race betting responsible for 16.5% of gambling harm.Reclaim the Game aims to counteract the saturation of sports betting advertising and help people understand their choices and decisions about gambling, encouraging them to take action to prevent and reduce gambling harm by seeking support when they need it.In 2025-26, the NSW Government has committed $20.7 million from the Responsible Gambling Fund for gambling support services, up from $19.19 million the previous year. The government has implemented a suite of measures to reduce gambling harm, including: Committing $100 million to harm minimisation – investing in research, treatment, services and reform,Banning gambling advertising on public transport, and the terminals people catch it from,Banning all external gambling signage in licensed premises and introducing Responsible Gambling Officers for venues with more than 20 gaming machine entitlements, andBanning political donations from clubs with electronic gaming machines.Reclaim the Game is an initiative of the NSW Office of Responsible Gambling, which also manages the statewide gambling support service GambleAware.Information about GambleAware Week activities, Reclaim the Game, plus resources and support information, are available at www.gambleaware.nsw.gov.au  Call the 24-hour GambleAware Helpline on 1800 858 858 for free and confidential support. In-language support is also available for those from diverse cultural backgrounds.  Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said, “The NSW Government is committed to reducing gambling harm, which not only impacts individuals, but also their loved ones and the broader community.“I’m pleased to announce the NSW Government has extended the Reclaim the Game partnerships with the Sydney Kings, Sydney Flames and Illawarra Hawks. These partnerships have helped us spread this important message through reclaiming advertising space and enlisting clubs to engage with fans and the community on responsible gambling.“Everyone has a role to play in keeping our communities safe, informed and supported. With gambling, there’s more to lose than money. You could be risking your family home, that dream holiday, your health or your relationships. “This GambleAware Week, start a conversation with those who matter most about what gambling’s really costing. If you or someone you care about is struggling, support is available.”Sydney Kings and Flames Chief Commercial Officer Amanda Farag said, “The Sydney Kings and Flames have been proud long-term partners of Reclaim the Game, and we are excited to renew this partnership. We wish basketball to remain a family-friendly environment, and we support the message of responsible gambling. We are proud of our ongoing commitment to this message”Illawarra Hawks General Manager Commercial Aaron Anderson said, “The Illawarra Hawks are proud to continue our partnership with Reclaim the Game and stand alongside the Sydney Kings and Sydney Flames, in creating a safer, more positive sporting environment. “By extending our partnership, we’re sending a clear message, basketball is about community, competition, and passion - not gambling. This initiative empowers fans to enjoy the game for what it truly is, while raising awareness about the support available through GambleAware.”

The NSW Government has unveiled the first part of its infrastructure plan to prevent a waste crisis in NSW. This plan also incorporates updated settings on Energy from Waste, following the recent review.This is the first time the NSW Government has produced a waste and circular infrastructure plan to ensure the state has the infrastructure it needs to support a growing population. This crucial future planning means bins will continue to be collected, and we can drive more recycling. Without action, Greater Sydney is on track to run out of space in landfill by 2030. Many regional landfills are also struggling. Despite the recent investments in recycling, including landmark food and organics recycling legislation passing earlier this year, waste generation is expected to outpace capacity within five years.Following public consultation, the first chapter of the NSW Waste and Circular Infrastructure Plan has been released – charting a path forward to meet our growing residual waste needs.The Plan introduces:streamlined planning processes, while keeping environmental safeguards, to help approvals for new facilities (including recycling facilities)a waste infrastructure concierge to provide advice and planning supporta new independent Advisory Committee for strategic waste infrastructureupdates to the energy from waste framework and refining where world’s best practice energy from waste facilities can be developed. The outcomes of the Energy from Waste review are included as part of this strategy, as energy from waste is an important part of waste infrastructure planning. Modern, latest technology thermal treatment is a better alternative to building new landfills. There are more than 2,000 operating in cities around the world. Work has now commenced on future chapters of the Waste and Circular Infrastructure Plan, which will focus on regional and rural waste challenges and solutions, as well as reuse and recycling infrastructure, with community consultation to commence later this year. To read Chapter 1 of the NSW Waste and Circular Infrastructure Plan, visit https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/Your-environment/Waste/waste-and-circular-infrastructure-plan. To learn more about Energy from Waste and the updated settings, visit https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/Your-environment/Waste/waste-and-circular-infrastructure-plan/energy-from-waste-nswMinister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe, said, “We are in a race against the clock to redesign how we deal with waste. If we haven’t got somewhere to put our rubbish in five years, those red bins can’t be collected.“We will not allow this to happen – that is why we have designed our state’s first-ever strategic plan to ensure NSW has the infrastructure it needs as we build a circular economy.“We have to break down the barriers around waste infrastructure investment and planning, while continuing to protect our environment from harm.“We have to do all the things at once – drive up recycling, drive down waste, better regulate dangerous products, increase reuse and repair, and ban those products that shouldn’t be used in the first place.”

The Northern Beaches Hospital’s shift to public ownership is nearing its conclusion, with in-principle agreement reached with Healthscope’s receivers on a $190 million payment for the transition.The milestone marks the final phase in the NSW Government’s promise to rectify one of NSW’s worst privatisation experiments, while minimising the impact on taxpayers. This follows months of negotiations between the NSW Government, Healthscope and its receivers, and will see the hospital move to the direct control of the Northern Sydney Local Health District by mid-2026.Under the agreement:The entire 494-bed hospital will return to public ownershipAll clinical and support staff currently working at Northern Beaches Hospital will be offered jobs by NSW Health at the facility, andStaff entitlements will transfer across from Healthscope to NSW Health.The NSW Government will now finalise the legal and commercial arrangements required for transfer, including workforce transition. It will also consult closely with clinicians to determine future clinical services and an operating model, including the role of private services in the hospital footprint.Elouise and Danny Massa, the parents of two-year-old Joe Massa who died at the hospital late last year, have been tireless advocates for the facility being brought into public hands.Their efforts led to the passing this year of Joe’s Law, a legal commitment by the NSW Government to prevent any future attempts to create public-private partnerships at acute care hospitals. Independent MPs Michael Regan, the Member for Wakehurst, and Jacqui Scruby, the member for Pittwater, have also been strong campaigners in their local community for reversing one of NSW’s worst examples of privatisation.A report by the Auditor-General this year found that the former government’s privatisation model did not allow Northern Beaches Hospital to deliver adequate health services. It found it:Prevented Northern Beaches Hospital from being properly integrated into the public health system, impacting access to services for patients in the area, andCreated tension between profit motives and health outcomes.Northern Beaches Hospital was one of six hospital privatisations attempted by the former Coalition. The five others – Maitland, Wyong, Goulburn, Shellharbour and Bowral – did not go ahead. The state government still retains the option to use its statutory powers to terminate the Public Private Partnership unilaterally if Healthscope fails to conclude the deal on fair and reasonable terms.Premier Chris Minns said, “We’ve reversed one of the worst decisions of any NSW Government, where a private hospital model was foisted on the people of the Northern Beaches.“Our state’s acute hospital services that provide lifesaving care to the people of New South Wales should not be privatised and thanks to this decision, no hospital in NSW will be.”“Because of Elouise and Danny’s courage and persistence, Joe’s Law now ensures that no future government can repeat the mistakes that led to the Northern Beaches Hospital privatisation. Their advocacy will leave a lasting legacy for every patient and every family who relies on our public health system.”Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said, “This agreement delivers what the Northern Beaches community has been calling for – a publicly run hospital that puts patients before profit.“At $190 million, this agreement represents strong value for money and is an excellent result for the community.“The Government has been clear all along that there will be no windfall gains for Healthscope or its investors at the expense of NSW taxpayers. This deal makes good on that commitment.”Minister for Health Ryan Park said, “We have done in a matter of months what would have otherwise taken years – undoing one of the most complex privatisation arrangements in the state’s history.  “We have worked with an urgency and speed to provide certainty for the community, patients and staff. We thank the staff for their hard work and cooperation as we continue to work through the transition.“This agreement does not mark the end – but the beginning – of the transition of a major hospital into the public health system. “I want to be upfront that this will not be without its challenges, but patient safety sits at the very heart of this handback to public ownership.“Let me be clear, clinical and support staff will have the opportunity to continue to work at Northern Beaches Hospital and will be offered employment with NSW Health.”

The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose to 4.5 per cent in September, up from a revised 4.3 per cent in August, according to data released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).Sean Crick, ABS head of labour statistics, said: ‘This is the highest seasonally adjusted unemployment rate recorded since November 2021.‘There were 34,000 more unemployed people in September. The number of employed people also grew, up 15,000 in the same period.‘As a result of these increases, the participation rate rose by 0.1 percentage points to 67.0 per cent, although this is below the record high of 67.2 per cent we saw at the beginning of the year,’ Mr Crick said.The employment-to-population ratio remained steady at 64.0 per cent.A rise in both males and females seeking work contributed to the rise in the number of unemployed people in September. The number of unemployed males rose by 24,000 to 370,000, while the number of unemployed females rose by 10,000 to 314,000.Full-time employment rose by 9,000, which was a result of full-time employed males increasing by 23,000 and full-time employed females decreasing by 15,000.Part-time employment rose by 6,000. This was driven by more females employed part-time, up 19,000, while males employed part-time fell 13,000.Hours worked rose by 0.5 per cent in September, higher than the 0.1 per cent rise in employment.Underemployment and underutilisationThe underemployment rate rose by 0.2 percentage points to 5.9 per cent in September. This is 0.3 percentage points lower than September 2024, and 2.8 percentage points lower than March 2020.The underutilisation rate, which combines the unemployment and underemployment rates, rose by 0.4 percentage points to 10.4 per cent. This is 0.1 percentage points higher than September 2024, and 3.5 percentage points lower than March 2020.Underlying trend dataTrend employment grew by around 20,000 people, or 0.1 per cent in September. This is a rise of 1.5 per cent over the last 12 months.Monthly hours worked rose by 0.1 per cent, reflecting similar monthly growth in people employed. The annual growth rate of hours worked and people employed were both 1.5 per cent.‘The trend unemployment rate remained at 4.3 per cent in September,’ Mr Crick said.‘In trend terms, participation rate remained at 66.9 per cent in September, while the employment-to-population ratio stayed at 64.0 per cent.'The underemployment rate was steady at 5.9 per cent, and the underutilisation rate remained at 10.2 per cent.More information, including regional labour market data, will be available in the upcoming September 2025 issue of Labour Force, Australia, Detailed, on Thursday 23 October 2025.The ABS would like to thank Australians for their continued support in responding to our surveys.

Tenterfield Shire Council is embracing the NSW Government’s Fresh Start Program, offering on-the-job training for long-term careers in the local government sector.Lismore MP Janelle Saffin, who helped broker the $252.2-million statewide initiative with Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig and the United Services Union, said the recent milestone of 500 approved positions ‘on the tools’ was proof of early success.The six-year program was launched last year, and more than 60 per cent of these new roles are boosting the workforces of regional or rural councils.Tenterfield Shire General Manager Hein Basson said the Council had been successful in employing two trainees in its water and sewer section.“In addition, it has just been advised that six apprenticeship positions have been approved for our Infrastructure Services Department,” Mr Basson said.“Council is indeed grateful to the State Government for the Fresh Start Program initiative and looks forward to keep on participating in this program and hopefully be successful with some of its other applications.”Mr Basson said Tenterfield Shire Council, individually, and the local government sector collectively, are in dire need to start building capacity again within this sphere of government closest to the people.“The attraction and retention of trained and experienced staff have become a real challenge for councils – therefore, we have to grow our own!,” Mr Basson said.“Council acknowledges that this initiative is a longer-term investment, but it looks forward to the fruit it will bear for its community into the future.”Tenterfield Shire Council has also suggested that the initiative become a permanent program. Tenterfield Shire comes under the Fresh Start Program’s New England region, which, as of last month, was funding 32 recruits across participating councils.

Passengers landing at Sydney Airport will benefit from greater choice and convenience on an ongoing basis, with a trial of rideshare pickups made permanent.The NSW Government has approved the ongoing use of Uber’s PIN matching technology for passengers arriving at Sydney Airport’s T1 International Terminal.This follows a successful 12-month trial of the Uber PIN system, which saw more than 300,000 trips completed and strong improvements in wait times, passenger satisfaction, and traffic flow.Uber PIN allows passengers to receive a unique code when booking a ride, which they then provide to a waiting driver in the designated pickup zone.A Point to Point Transport Commissioner evaluation of Uber data found the trial delivered:A 15.2% reduction in passenger wait timesAn 88.4% reduction in driver idle timeA 12.5% increase in customer satisfactionThe rideshare trial was designed to increase customer choice and is one of a number of innovations to improve customer experience for people landing at Sydney Airport.Last month, the Government announced a $60 flat rate taxi fare from Sydney Airport to the CBD designed to eradicate rip-offs that can blight the experience of visitors landing in Sydney, especially foreign and interstate tourists arriving for the first time.On Sunday, the fine for taxi drivers doing the wrong thing was tripled to $3000 as a deterrent to drivers who overcharge, refuse to use their meter or refuse a fare.Sydney Airport has been a focus of passenger complaints over bad treatment and rip-offs.Minister for Transport John Graham said, “The numbers from the trial speak for themselves: 300,000 passenger trips, with wait times down 15% and much less wasted wait times for drivers clogging up the airport.“By making this permanent, we are adding another layer of convenience, choice and predictability for travellers, building on the recent innovation of a $60 flat fare for taxis from Sydney Airport to the CBD.“Together, these innovations are helping ensure the welcome to Sydney remains as warm as it has ever been.”Point to Point Transport Commissioner Anthony Wing said, “My team has worked closely with Uber and Sydney Airport to ensure safety controls are in place, including signage, staff presence, and kerbside inspections. We’ll continue to monitor compliance.”

The Labour Day long weekend traffic operation has now concluded, with three lives lost on New South Wales roads.Operation Labour Day 2025 commenced at 12.01am on Friday, 3 October 2025 and concluded at 11.59pm yesterday (Monday, 6 October 2025).The high-visibility operation saw police across the state targeting drink and drug driving, fatigue, mobile phone use, speeding and seat belt and helmet offences, with double demerits in place for the duration of the four-day operation.Across the state, police issued 11,389 Traffic Infringement Notices, including 4,026 for speed-related offences, 302 for mobile phone usage, and 174 seatbelt/helmet-related offences.Police conducted more than 214,906 breath tests, with 300 drink driving offences and conducted 11,283 drug tests, with 724 drug driving offences detected, with 285 major crashes reported.Since Wednesday, 1 January 2025, 277 people have been killed on NSW roads.Over this long weekend, three people lost their lives – all of which occurred in northern NSW.Acting Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Ryan Park, said that still too many lives are being lost to recklessness on our roads.“Three people lost their lives over the weekend, not because of bad luck, but because of bad decisions taken on our roads,” Minister Park said.“These crashes aren’t accidents; they’re preventable. Every time someone speeds, looks at their phone or drives under the influence, they’re putting lives on the line.”“As we head into one of the busiest times of year on our roads, the message couldn’t be clearer. Slow down, pay attention and never drive if you’ve been drinking or taking drugs.”“Police will be out in force again coming up to Christmas, targeting dangerous driving, speeding, distraction and impairment. Real change starts with every driver taking responsibility. One careless decision is all it takes to destroy a life.”Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Driver APM said even one incident that sees road users putting lives in danger is one too many.“Officers this weekend saw several incidents of drink and drug driving, speeding, and not following the road rules and it’s devastating that families are now mourning the loss of loved ones.”“While most drivers are doing the right thing, we are disappointed that we continue to see people choosing to put themselves and other road users in danger.”“While this traffic operation has concluded, drivers can always expect to see police out on our roads, and we will continue to target dangerous driving to ensure the safety of our communities.”Incidents of note include: About 4.20pm on Friday (3 October 2025), officers attached to North West Traffic & Highway Patrol Command stopped a vehicle for stationary testing in Dundas. The driver – a 21-year-old man – was subjected to a roadside drug test which returned a positive result. A vehicle search was conducted with police allegedly locating and seizing cocaine, cannabis, MDMA pills, and methylamphetamine. He was arrested and taken to Parramatta Police Station where he was charged with two counts of supply prohibited drug greater than small and less than indictable quantity, possess prohibited drug, and two counts of supply prohibited drug greater than indictable and less than the commercial quantity. He was refused bail to appear before Parramatta Local Court on Sunday 5 October 2025.About 6.20pm on Friday (3 October 2025), officers attached to Hume Highway Patrol stopped a vehicle allegedly speeding at 134km/h in a signposted 110km/h on the Hume Highway, Goulburn. The P2 Provisional driver – a 25-year-old man – was subjected to a random drug test which returned a positive result. A search was conducted on the man with police allegedly locating several packages of cocaine and cash. He was taken to Goulburn Police Station where a secondary analysis was conducted and returned an alleged reading for cocaine. He was charged with supply prohibited drug greater than indictable and less than commercial quantity, possess prohibited drug, and knowingly deal with proceeds of crime. He was issued an infringement notice for P2 driver exceeding the speed limit by over 30kmh, and his licence has been suspended.About 11.30am on Saturday (4 October 2025), officers attached to Bathurst Highway Patrol stopped a vehicle on the Northern Distributor, Orange, allegedly travelling 17km/h over the signposted speed limit. The driver – a 26-year-old man – was subjected to a roadside breath test, which allegedly returned a positive result. The man was arrested and taken to Orange Police Station where he was charged with drive with high range PCA. He is due to appear at Orange Local Court on Thursday 30 October 2025.About 10.10pm on Saturday (4 October 2025), officers attached to Coffs Harbour Highway Patrol allegedly detected a vehicle travelling on the Pacific Highway, Dirty Creek, at 183kph in a 110kph zone. The 19-year-old male driver was issued a Field Court Attendance Notice for drive recklessly/furiously or speed/manner dangerous and P2 driver exceed speed > 45 km/h – Lidar to appear at Coffs Harbour Local Court on Tuesday 2 December 2025. It will also be alleged that the vehicle was not displaying P plates. The driver was also issued a $330 for not comply P2 licence condition not display P plates. He was also issued a licence suspension notice.About 10:25am on Sunday (5 October 2025), officers attached to Grafton Highway Patrol stopped a 17-year-old girl allegedly travelling at 157kmh in 110kmh zone along the Pacific Highway, Pillar Valley. She was issued a $3,054 infringement and a six-month licence suspension notice.About 4pm on Sunday (5 October 2025), officers from Mid North Coast Highway Patrol stopped 40-year-old man on Lighthouse Road, Port Macquarie, for a random breath test where he allegedly returned a reading of 0.241. He was charged with High Range PCA – 2nd offence. His licence was also suspended.About 8.05am yesterday (Monday 6 October 2025), officers from Nepean Highway Patrol were conducting stationary random breath testing along the Kingsway, Werrington. It will be alleged that as a vehicle approached the site it stopped and the driver – a 19-year-old male P licence holder – ran from the vehicle. Following a foot pursuit the man was arrested in nearby bushland. An oral test allegedly returned a positive reading to cocaine. Further analysis is to be undertaken before any further action is taken. The mans licence has been suspended.About 8.25am yesterday (Monday 6 October 2025), officers from Lake Illawarra Highway Patrol allegedly stopped a vehicle travelling 124kph in a 110kph zone along the Princes Highway, Dunmore. Inquiries revealed the 45-year-old male driver’s Provisional licence was disqualified in 2011 until 2042. He was served with a Field Court Attendance Notice for drive motor vehicle during disqualification period - 2nd offence and is due to appear at Kiama Local Court on Monday 3 November 2025. He was also issued a $592 infringement for class A motor vehicle exceed speed > 20kph – Lidar.