Very few businesses will escape demands to come clean on their carbon footprint under the mandatory climate-related reporting regime, experts say.From January 1, the largest companies and financial institutions are legally required to measure and disclose their greenhouse gas emissions and show what they intend to do to reduce them.The climate-related financial disclosures - of risks and scenarios bringing climate upside - must be lodged with the corporate watchdog as part of annual reporting obligations, putting them on par with standard "financials".For example, moving people and goods from place to place on Australian roads accounts for almost one-fifth of emissions, which means many firms have been assessing the cost and impact of the electrification of car fleets and delivery trucks.Moving goods and people accounts for almost 20 per cent of Australia's emissions. (Darren England/AAP PHOTOS)In the property sector, which is already under pressure to run buildings more efficiently, the broader focus is expected to lead to less waste during construction and more recycled materials being developed.But the major step up in financial reporting lacks an agreed language, with common definitions for a future sustainable finance taxonomy still to come."That's where organisations can trip up - the differing understandings about what 'net zero' means, what 'clean' means, what 'green' means," Australian Institute of Company Directors head of policy Christian Gergis told AAP.Preparedness differed across the market and there were some organisations where this would be the first time they had publicly reported on their exposure to climate risk and opportunity, Mr Gergis said."Organisations can no longer say that's outside my direct control ... even if you're not directly covered, you're likely to get data requests from others," he said.ASIC chair Joe Longo has said initial enforcement of the new rules will be pragmatic. (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS)Unlike some other jurisdictions, non-listed companies have been included in the list of liable reporting entities under the changes that are being phased in over four years.While facing ongoing economic pressures to do more with less, small and medium entities below the various thresholds won't be required to make climate-related financial disclosures.But they were already seeing new data demands built into contracts, Mr Gergis said, as larger organisations try to make sure their supply chain had no weak links."There will be very, very few Australian businesses who will not be touched by information requests from their larger value chain stakeholders," Pollination Law managing director Sarah Barker has warned.Australia's first sustainability reporting standards are aligned with global standards, putting the nation on par with international best practice, according to Responsible Investment Association Australasia.Australian Securities and Investments Commission chair Joe Longo, recently named in Time magazine's Climate 100 list, has promised a "pragmatic" approach to initial supervision and enforcement.

A new year brings a raft of changes to policies and government payments for more than a million Australians.From January 1, underpaying workers will officially become a crime, while welfare recipients will notice more money coming into their bank accounts.Single recipients of youth allowance with dependent children will see payments increase by $30.60, and partnered recipients of youth allowance without dependent children will receive a payment increase of $24.30.Carer allowance payments will increase by $5.80, bringing the rate to $159.30 per fortnight.A raft of welfare payment changes will help many people struggling financially. (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)Meanwhile, some eligibility obstacles for government payments will be removed.There will no longer be fixed time limits for exemptions to mutual obligations if recipients are temporarily incapacitated due to medical conditions, with Services Australia instead granting exemptions for as long as needed according to medical advice.Award wages for aged-care workers will also increase from January 1.Another 100,000 TAFE places will be made free, including 10,000 for housing and construction workers, as the government looks to plug a labour shortage holding the sector back from reaching its target of 1.2 million new homes by 2029.Australians trying to get into university will also have another 8600 fee-free uni ready places to strive for.Education Minister Jason Clare said the changes would help Australians struggling with the cost of living, which was the government's top priority."We know people are doing it tough, which is why measures like this are so important," he said.Education Minister Jason Clare says cost-of-living issues are the government's top priority. (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)One thing that won't be changing are prices for medicines listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.For the first time in more than 25 years, PBS co-payments won't rise with inflation, saving Australians almost half a billion dollars on the cost of medicine between now and 2030.Medicare safety net thresholds will increase in line with inflation, meaning people will have to spend more on out-of-hospital medical services before accessing a higher rebate level.Australians with private health insurance will have access to more benefits as the majority of funds reset their annual extras limits.Also taking effect from January 1 are the government's wage theft laws, which mean employers who underpay their staff will be committing a criminal offence.A ban on the importation of engineered stone benchtops that cause silicosis will also take effect, while changes to vehicle efficiency standards will begin, resulting in lower emissions for new passenger cars sold in Australia.Corporate Australia will also be given a kick to cut down on carbon, with about 1800 companies to be subjected to mandatory disclosure laws requiring them to measure and disclose the amount of greenhouse gas emissions they produce.By Jacob Shteyman in Canberra

Two men have been charged with drug trafficking at the first Victorian festival to trial pill testing, while one person has been treated for an overdose.Police allege the pair were found with traffickable amount of drugs during separate searches on Monday at Beyond the Valley, a festival at Barunah Plains about 50 kilometres west of Geelong.A 28-year-old South Yarra man allegedly had 17 MDMA pills, four grams of cocaine and other pills on him, while a Rippleside man, 27, was allegedly found with 27 grams of cocaine and 15 grams of ketamine.They were both granted bail and are due to face court in March.Some 35,000 revellers are expected to pack the music festival over five days - the first of 10 events trialling a state government-backed drug checking service over 18 months.Partygoers can anonymously drop off their pills, capsules, powders, crystals and liquids with experts who test them for harmful chemicals before they are counselled on risks of consumption.Pill testing is legal in Queensland and the ACT, while NSW says it will launch a $1 million 12-month trial in 2025.A man aged in his twenties who had been at Beyond the Valley was treated for a drug overdose at Geelong Hospital on Saturday, a hospital spokesperson confirmed.No information is available on whether he used the service as revellers are not asked to provide their names or other details.Victoria Police has warned it will have a highly visible presence at the festival, but officers will not be at the pill testing station, unless responding to an incident, as is not illegal to carry a small amount of drugs at a drug-checking service.Pill testing service users are not asked to provide their names or other details. (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)Regular enforcement powers apply away from the service."Victoria Police has zero tolerance for drug traffickers and officers will have no hesitation arresting and charging someone for this offence, no matter where it occurs," a spokesperson said.Testing organisers previously hoped for up to 200 samples through the door each day, with the service operating from 1pm to 7pm and only available for drugs intended for personal use.Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews rejected proposals for similar trials, but current Premier Jacinta Allan introduced the scheme soon after coming to power.It followed 10 overdoses last summer and five separate state coronial recommendations pushing for pill testing since 2021.Victorian paramedics responded to more drug overdoses in the first three months of 2024 than all of 2023, with many around festivals and other events attended by young people, Ms Allan has said.State parliament passed legislation in October to allow the $4 million trial and a fixed site to open in mid-2025 in inner-Melbourne.By Rachael Ward in Melbourne

Electric utes, vans and sports cars from a wide range of automakers will roll into Australia over the next 12 months in what is expected to become a milestone year for low-emission vehicles.Automotive industry experts say the race will be triggered by laws that set a pollution cap on new vehicles in Australia for the first time, catching up to regulations in other countries.But they warn a late start for their enforcement and tough economic conditions could slow Australia's progress towards electric car targets.The New Vehicle Efficiency Standard will come into effect from January 1, setting a pollution limit for fleets of passenger vehicles and another for light commercial vehicles such as utes and large four-wheel drives.Pollution limits will apply for light commercial vehicles such as utes and large four-wheel drives. (HANDOUT/LDV)The limits will apply to new cars and are designed to encourage automakers to balance sales of high-polluting vehicles with low-emission electric and hybrid models.But the standard has impacted the local vehicle market before its official arrival, Australian Electric Vehicle Association national president Chris Jones said, as many emerging and established brands had announced plans to import electric and plug-in hybrid electric cars."It's going to be an exciting year and there will be lots more makes and models hitting our shores," Dr Jones told AAP."We've always been a very diverse, competitive passenger vehicle market."Reaction to the launch of BYD's Shark 6 plug-in hybrid ute, which attracted almost 4000 pre-orders, showed Australian motorists were eager to adopt low-polluting vehicles, Dr Jones said, but were waiting for options that suited them.Thousands of Australians have pre-ordered the BYD Shark 6, a plug-in hybrid electric ute. (HANDOUT/BYD)Australians should expect to see a lot more electric challengers arrive in 2025, Swinburne University future urban mobility professor Hussein Dia said, including some with competitive prices."There will be an influx of cheaper vehicles and models from China," Professor Dia said."They are challenging many of the established brands and we've already started to see their impact in Australia."Lesser known brands such as Zeekr, Smart and LDV planned to bring electric cars to Australia during the year to compete with launches from European companies like Polestar and Volkswagen, and well-known Asian brands such as Hyundai and Kia.Lesser known brands will also hit the market as they seek to rival those with a foothold. (HANDOUT/ZEEKR)Newer brands could set price records for electric cars that fell during 2024, Prof Dia said and could boost sales for entry-level and luxury vehicles."Some of the models we're expecting from China, for $50,000 or $60,000, you can get what is comparable to a luxury brand," he said."That could take off."Penalties for exceeding pollution limits will not be enforced under Australia's vehicle efficiency standard until July, however, and some light commercial vehicles weighing between 3.5 and 4.5 tonnes will not immediately be required to go through carbon testing.The "loophole" should be closed quickly to prevent misuse, Dr Jones said, who also warned electric car growth could climb steadily if cost-of-living pressures remained high.10 ELECTRIC AND PLUG-IN HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLES ARRIVING IN 2025BYD Shark 6: Almost 4000 drivers have pre-ordered one of these utes before their January 2025 arrival, securing their popularity. The $57,900 vehicle promises two electric motors, a four-cylinder petrol engine, and a battery range of 100km.VW ID. Buzz: This may be Volkswagen's first electric vehicle to reach Australia but it will be easy to recognise. The battery-powered five or seven-seat mini-van borrows design details from the iconic Kombi and its price starts at $87,990.Zeekr X: The first of three electric cars from this Chinese brand will be delivered to Australian buyers early in 2025. The sleek SUV will be available with a battery range of 470km or 540km, and it's priced from $56,900.Hyundai Inster: Due in showrooms in February, this compact electric car is set to compete with the MG4 and GWM Ora. Hyundai's smallest electric vehicle promises to arrive in three varieties: short range, long range, and a crossover model.Kia EV3: Tipped to be Kia's least expensive electric SUV, the EV3 is due to arrive in Australia between March and April. The brand has yet to confirm its price but the small SUV will feature a widescreen display across its dashboard and a range of up to 600km.MG S5: Unlike its ZS predecessor, the company's upcoming SUV is being built as an electric vehicle from the get-go and is expected to arrive with a choice of three models. They will drive into showrooms mid-year.Polestar 5: The Swedish car brand is poised to deliver its most high-performance vehicle to date in the Polestar 5, a sedan twice as powerful as the Polestar 2 and designed to compete with the Porsche Panamera. The model could arrive late in the year.Mercedes-Benz G580: This G-Class vehicle has four electric motors – one to power each of its wheels – and promises to go from zero to 100km/h in under five seconds. The automaker has yet to announce a price for the powerful four-wheel drive but its V8 sibling costs more than $300,000.Smart #5: Designed by Mercedes-Benz, this medium-sized SUV will be Smart's largest vehicle to date, and the brand's third electric model, when it arrives in 2025. It's expected to roll into the country in the second half of the year and could feature a range up to 740km.LDV eTerron 9: The Chinese brand that brought Australia its first electric ute will launch a second model in 2025 with significantly more power and range. The eTerron 9 is expected to land in the first quarter of the year, though the company has yet to release its price.By Jennifer Dudley-Nicholson in Brisbane

The Federal Government is activating financial support for Victorians directly affected by bushfires burning in and around the Grampians National Park and Macedon Ranges – through the Disaster Recovery Allowance. The Disaster Recovery Allowance provides up to 13 weeks of income support for workers and sole traders who have experienced loss of income as a result of recent bushfires in the Rural City of Ararat, Shire of Macedon Ranges, Shire of Northern Grampians and Shire of Southern Grampians. It is available to people who work or live in a declared Local Government Area, who have lost some or all of their income as a direct result of the disaster, and will earn less than the average Australian weekly income in the 13 weeks after this income loss. Applications for the Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA) will open on 30 December 2024 from 2pm AEDT. Members of the community are encouraged to seek information regarding eligibility and how to claim on the Services Australia website. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, “At the worst of times we always see the best of the Australian spirit. “Neighbours helping each other out, communities coming together, firefighters and first responders protecting lives and livelihoods. “That’s exactly what we’ve seen with these recent bushfires in Victoria. “We want to make sure people in these communities can get back on their feet as quickly as possible, which is why we’re rolling out this support.” Minister for Government Services Bill Shorten said, “Supporting communities and workers impacted by a natural disaster is what Services Australia is geared to do. “People should check their eligibility for the Disaster Recovery Allowance on the Services Australia website at servicesaustalia.gov.au/disastersupport. “The easiest way to make a claim is online through myGov. If people need help to claim, they can call the Australian Government Emergency Information Line on 180 22 66. “There may be some disruption at Services Australia service centres in affected areas over coming days. We encourage people to access services online or over the phone where possible.” Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister said, “The bushfires in the Grampians and Macedon Ranges have impacted the livelihoods of a number of workers, especially tourism operators during what would normally be the peak season. “Our Government is moving quickly to activate this financial assistance so those whose incomes have been disrupted are supported in the immediate recovery phase. “It’s critical that locals and those travelling in the area remain prepared to act in an emergency and listen to the advice from local emergency services.”

The family of teenager who was swept off rocks at a popular beach have confirmed the boy's body has been found by rescuers days after he was reported missing. Luca Bennett went missing about 3pm on Christmas Eve off North Avoca Beach on the NSW Central Coast.The 15-year-old aspiring basketballer was one of three teenagers swept from the rocks into the sea when the group was hit by a wave.Two of the boys scrambled back onto the rocks before raising the alarm.A search on Christmas Day involving police, NSW Ambulance, Surf Life Saving NSW, Central Coast Council Lifeguards and a rescue helicopter failed to find Luca.Police said an operation to recover the body was ongoing on Friday afternoon.Parents Jason and Michelle Bennett confirmed their "beautiful Luca J" was found by rescue crews on Friday afternoon. "Dolphins were circling Nth Avoca rocks since 5am this morning," the teenager's mother wrote in a Facebook post."The ocean lifted him up onto the rocks."Luca Bennett disappeared after being swept off a rock shelf at North Avoca Beach. (HANDOUT/MARINE RESCUE NEW SOUTH WALES)Michelle thanked rescue crews and the community for helping to search for Luca."The incredible team from our surf clubs, police and marine rescue, paramedics are retrieving him for us ... we can't ever begin to explain our immense gratitude to them and all of our family, friends and community," she said.Photos posted online showed friends gathering on Christmas Day to honour the missing teenager beneath a tribute etched onto a rock face."Luca Bennett 2009-2024. Forever 15," it read.Inspector Benjamin Campbell of Brisbane Water Police District described the accident as a "very tragic incident", adding his heart went out to the family."It's just a timely reminder of how dangerous the rocks can be around the ocean and how everyone has to be really careful," he told reporters on Wednesday.A report will be prepared for the coroner.By Samantha Lock in Sydney

Scorching heat and dangerous fire conditions are sweeping across eastern Australia, with some areas predicted to swelter as temperatures push into the mid-40s. Hot, dry, windy conditions have been building across the nation since Christmas Eve, fuelling bushfires including a massive blaze in Victoria's Grampians National Park.Birdsville, in southwest Queensland, recorded 47.2C on Boxing Day, the nation's highest temperature, while Moomba in South Australia hit 45.5C. The extreme conditions have complicated firefighting efforts in the Grampians, where wind gusts reached 95 km/h. Half of the iconic Grampians region in Victoria is on fire, about 74,000 hectares.Sweltering temperatures and high winds have fuelled bushfires in the Grampians. (James Ross/AAP PHOTOS)A dramatic cool change brought some relief overnight, with temperatures dropping 10C in two hours at the fireground.However, the weather bureau said the change did not bring any relief for firefighters in the form of rain."No rainfall was observed across the Grampian's northern fire sites with this system," said the Bureau of Meteorology's Jonathan How. The potentially dangerous weather pattern has now shifted northeast, with Sydney facing extreme fire danger ratings on Friday. Western Sydney is bracing for temperatures in the low 40s, while coastal areas expect high 30s."With that heat and also very dry winds coming through from inland areas, we are expecting extreme fire dangers for Sydney and Hunter as well as the northwestern slopes of New South Wales," Mr How said.A total fire ban is in place for those areas. Queensland isn't being spared, with Brisbane set to peak at 37C on Saturday and the city's western suburbs potentially reaching 40C. The bureau warns of "low to locally severe intensity heatwave conditions" stretching along Queensland's east coast. A cool change if offering relief to southern states, with temperatures dropping 10-15 degrees in Victoria and SA later in the weekend.Melbourne and Adelaide are expecting much milder conditions of about 22C on Friday. The Bureau of Meteorology is urging residents to stay updated on local fire authority advice and to check current conditions.By Emily Verdouw in Brisbane

The bodies of two sailors killed in the annual Sydney to Hobart yacht race have been returned to shore, as the race continues in wild conditions.A sailor aboard Flying Fish Arctos and one on Bowline were fatally struck by their respective boat's boom, a large horizontal pole at the bottom of the sail.Both yachts have since retired from the race - two of the 17 pulled out by 8.45am on Friday after a west-southwesterly change brought strong winds to the southern NSW Coast and Bass Strait.The deaths are the first in the race since 1998, when six sailors died in storms, triggering reforms to safety protocols.Line honours favourite Master Lock Comanche is among the boats to have withdrawn from the race. (Dan Himbrechts/AAP PHOTOS)Cruising Yacht Club of Australia vice commodore David Jacobs said the deaths would be investigated but many of the circumstances were still unknown."We always want to improve safety wherever we can, so we will do an investigation," he said."If there's something that boats can do to try and prevent this happening, we will implement it."The identities of the two sailors have not been made public, but Mr Jacobs said several members of one boat were relatively new to the sport."But when you say they're an amateur crew, there are very specific safety requirements," he said.Cruising Yacht Club Vice Commodore David Jacobs says the race will "absolutely" continue. (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)Mr Jacobs stressed the race would continue and the conditions were not extreme.The fatality aboard Flying Fish Arctos occurred about 30nm east-southeast of Ulladulla on the NSW south coast late on Thursday night.Crew members attempted CPR but could not revive their teammate, notifying the Australian Maritime Safety Authority about 11.50pm.Flying Fish Arctos altered her course to arrive at Jervis Bay on Friday morning.The crew member aboard Bowline was struck approximately 30nm northeast of Batemans Bay about 2am and fell unconscious, with CPR also unsuccessful. A police vessel escorted the boat to Batemans Bay.Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to the sailors who lost their lives."We have sadly awoken to tragedy in the Sydney to Hobart with the awful news two sailors have lost their lives," he said."Our thoughts are with the crews, their families and loved ones at this deeply sad time."By Neve Brissenden in Sydney

Australians will splash $1.3 billion on Boxing Day sales after some unseasonably early shopping tactics, despite cost of living pressures.The projected figures are a 1.8 per cent increase on last year's spending, according to new data from Australian Retailers Association and Roy Morgan.For the six days following Christmas, shoppers will continue to make the most of the bargains, spending a total of $3.7 billion across that period, up 2.7 per cent on the same period in 2023.NSW is expected to lead the charge on spending, with shoppers ready to spend $1.1 billion over five days.Australians have splashed their cash, spending billions during the sale season. (Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS)Victorians are close behind, with an expected total of $951 million.Forecasts estimate Queenslanders will spend $746 million, South Australians $234 million, Western Australians $410 million, Tasmanians $74 million, Territorians $33 million and shoppers in the ACT $69 million.This will include $296 million on food, $378 million on household goods and $197 million on clothing and footwear to make up the bulk of the sales spending.Australian Retailers Association spokeswoman Alexandra Keefe said the lift in pre-Christmas buys was partially due to shoppers starting their festive planning early."We've seen (shoppers) start to plan their Christmas gift lists as early as October and to start shopping in October as well," Ms Keefe said. "Of course, there's going to be that last-minute shopper."We know Australians this year are forecast to spend $69.8 billion in the lead up to Christmas and $11.8 billion on gifts alone."Still, conditions have been generally challenging for retailers.Headline inflation has outstripped sales growth, rising 2.8 per cent in the year to September.Consumers plan ahead to make their dollar work harder in the lead-up to Christmas. (Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS)Purchasing habits have changed in recent years, with shoppers increasingly shifting their spending earlier in the discount season, given the surge in popularity of Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales.There is some optimism the Reserve Bank will lower the cash rate to 4.10 per cent at its next meeting in February, with the money market implying an almost three-quarters chance of a 25 basis point cut.The minutes from the December meeting, released on Tuesday, could reinforce that view. A rate cut would be good news for hotel operators, although accommodation providers still experienced strong booking growth this holiday period.Nationally, bookings are up 4.6 per cent in December and four per cent in January from the same period last year.While customers were still prioritising a holiday, they were looking for the best value they could find, according to Accommodation Australia chief executive James Goodwin."This is a solid result, particularly when we know family budgets are tight and international tourism has still not returned to pre-COVID levels," he said.By Holly Hales in Melbourne

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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