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.

Just days out from the 2025 NRL Grand Final at Accor Stadium, the NSW Government and Australian Rugby League Commission have confirmed an agreement to keep the NRL and NRLW Grand Finals in Sydney in 2026.The deal secures the game’s biggest event in its traditional home, where it has been played every year since Australian rugby league began in Sydney in 1908, with the sole exception of 2021 due to COVID-19.With the 2025 NRL season among the most competitive in recent history and the NRLW continuing its rapid rise in popularity, today’s announcement gives fans from across Australia and New Zealand certainty to plan a long weekend in Sydney in October 2026 for the ‘big dance’.This weekend, more than 80,000 fans will fill Accor Stadium for one of the nation’s sporting highlights, with the Sydney Roosters facing the Brisbane Broncos in the NRLW Grand Final, followed by the NRL Grand Final clash between the Brisbane Broncos and the Melbourne Storm. Fans will also enjoy a show-stopping performance by international superstar Teddy Swims.The event will be broadcast to millions of rugby league fans across 51 countries, reinforcing Sydney’s position as Australia’s home of major sporting events in a way few other codes can.As the NRL expands its audience in the United States and Asia-Pacific, keeping the Grand Final in Sydney ensures the city remains the heart of rugby league and provides a powerful platform to showcase Sydney as an ideal destination for major sporting event experiences to the game’s growing international fan base.Today’s announcement adds to Sydney’s unrivalled calendar of major sporting events for 2026, including the United Cup, SCG Ashes Test, SailGP, AFC Women’s Asian Cup, State of Origin, The Everest and the TCS Sydney Marathon Abbott World Marathon Major.Premier of NSW Chris Minns said, “NSW is the home of rugby league and Sydney is unquestionably the greatest rugby league city in the world, so there really is no better place to be hosting the NRL’s showpiece event.“The NRL Grand Final is one of our nation’s greatest annual sporting events and with NSW representing more than half of the clubs across both the NRL and NRLW competitions, this is great news for the thousands of fans who will come together to celebrate the game in its home city.”Minister for Jobs and Tourism and Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said, “The NRL has done a fantastic job in promoting and expanding the game to new international markets. We need to make sure we cement Sydney’s legacy as the nation’s home of sport and the birthplace of rugby league. “Regardless of who plays in the Grand Final, rugby league fans from across the nation will flock to Sydney. This a big win for sport fans and fantastic news for pubs, hotels, restaurants and retailers in Sydney, and gives them confidence to start to planning for this iconic event.”Australian Rugby League Commission Chairman Peter V’landys AM said, “As Australia and the Pacific's number one sport, we are pleased to confirm that Sydney will host the 2026 NRL and NRLW Telstra Grand Finals."The NRL Grand Final day is the most iconic event on our sporting calendar, drawing global attention and attracting tens of thousands of travelling fans into Sydney and NSW every year."This year alone over 40,000 tickets, which is more than half the stadium, have been sold to interstate and international fans, providing a huge economic stimulus to the local economy and a $50 million plus return on investment to the NSW Government."“We want to thank the NSW Government for the ongoing support of Rugby League as well as Premier Chris Minns and Minister Steve Kamper who have worked with us to reach an early agreement for next year’s Grand Final. Fans can now start making their plans for 2026."

The NSW Government is introducing updated Safety Management System (SMS) Guidelines to take effect from Friday, 24 October, to deliver safer, more reliable bus services across all parts of the state.The government says this is a major step forward, shifting operators away from outdated, one-size-fits-all rules to a modern, risk-based framework that reflects contemporary workplace safety standards.The new measures were a key recommendation of the NSW Bus Industry Taskforce and mark the first major update to the Guidelines since 2005.The reforms are part of the Government’s broader transformation agenda to lift safety, reliability and service quality across the state’s bus network. Initiatives already in place include retrofitting seatbelts, rolling out awareness campaigns and reducing Sydney’s bus driver shortfall from 500 in April 2023 to just 123 today, with 176 more drivers in training.One year on from the Bus Industry Taskforce’s final report, the government is continuing to build on the improvements made to buses across the state.Key elements of the updated SMS Guidelines include:A stronger focus on identifying and managing safety hazards.Flexibility for operators to tailor safety systems to their size, complexity and risks.Full alignment with workplace health and safety laws.A culture of continuous safety improvement across the industry.Transport for NSW will be providing education and support to help operators transition, with the Guidelines forming part of a broader reform program to strengthen regulation of the bus industry.The NSW Government committed $452 million in the 2025–26 Budget, which will fund these improvements, ensuring more services, new buses and support for local operators across the state.Minister for Transport John Graham said, “These reforms are about putting passenger and driver safety first, while modernising the way our bus system is regulated.“The updated Guidelines give operators the flexibility they need to manage risks effectively, while ensuring every journey is backed by the highest standards of safety.“Under the Minns Labor Government, people can have confidence that our bus network is safer, stronger and built for the future.”Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said, “Whether you live in the city or the country, buses are a lifeline that keep people connected and improve access to health, education, jobs and opportunity.“These reforms will help regional operators put in place systems that reflect their unique risks and challenges, while staying aligned with best practice across the state.“The Minns Government is delivering safer, more reliable bus services for every community in NSW.”

Commissioner Mal Lanyon APM has been formally appointed as the 24th NSW Police Force Commissioner, following a ceremony at Balmain Police Station today.The ceremony was conducted in the presence of Her Excellency, The Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC and Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, The Honourable Yasmin Catley MP, as well as a number of other dignitaries and senior officers.Commissioner Lanyon started his career at Glebe on March 27, 1987, and brings more than 37 years of policing experience to the role.Commissioner Lanyon has held a range of senior operational leadership roles, including leading the State Crime Command and serving as Deputy Commissioner since January 2019.From April 2024, Commissioner Lanyon worked as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the NSW Reconstruction Authority, guiding the state’s natural disaster management efforts.Commissioner Lanyon said his years of public service gave him a deep understanding of the challenges facing the community and modern policing.“It’s an honour to be appointed as the next Commissioner of the NSW Police Force. This is one of the greatest responsibilities in public service,” Commissioner Lanyon said. “I can’t wait to get to work, tackling key priority areas: organised crime, community safety in our regions, supporting victims of domestic and family violence, and ensuring there is social cohesion within the community.“I take on this role with humility and a deep sense of duty.“And I want to ensure that every police officer feels united and part of one team, motivated by the purpose and commitment to serve the community of NSW.”Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley has congratulated Commissioner Lanyon on his appointment.“Commissioner Lanyon has proven himself with almost four decades of exceptional service across frontline and leadership roles. “He is ready to hit the ground running and has the experience and vision to lead the NSW Police Force into a bright, new era.“Congratulations Commissioner. I look forward to working together.”

The monthly Consumer Price Index (CPI) indicator rose 3.0 per cent in the 12 months to August 2025, according to the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Michelle Marquardt, ABS head of prices statistics, said: ‘The 3.0 per cent annual CPI inflation to August was up from 2.8 per cent to July, making this the highest annual inflation rate since July 2024.’The largest contributors to annual inflation were Housing (+4.5 per cent), Food and non-alcoholic beverages (+3.0 per cent), and Alcohol and tobacco (+6.0 per cent).When prices for some items change significantly, measures of underlying inflation (like the annual trimmed mean and CPI excluding volatile items and holiday travel) can give more insights into how inflation is trending.‘Annual trimmed mean inflation was 2.6 per cent to August 2025. This is down from 2.7 per cent to July 2025’, Ms Marquardt said.CPI excluding volatile items and holiday travel rose 3.4 per cent in the 12 months to August, compared to a 3.2 per cent rise in the 12 months to July. All groups monthly CPI indicator, Australia, annual movement (%) Annual Housing inflation was 4.5 per cent to August, up from 3.6 per cent to July, reflecting increases in Electricity costs. Electricity costs rose 24.6 per cent in the 12 months to August. Ms Marquardt said, ‘The annual rise in electricity costs is primarily related to households in Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania having higher out-of-pocket costs in August 2025 than they did in August 2024. In August last year, State Government electricity rebates were in place for Queensland ($1000), Western Australia ($400) and Tasmania ($250). Over the year, those rebates have been used up and those programs have finished. Excluding the impact of the various changes in Commonwealth and State electricity rebates over the last year electricity prices rose 5.9 per cent’. In monthly terms, electricity costs fell 6.3 per cent in August 2025. The fall in costs this month was driven by NSW and ACT, with households in those States receiving their first payments of the extended Commonwealth Energy Bill Relief Fund (EBRF) rebates. Electricity, Australia, monthly and annual movement (%) (a) Electricity index, Australia, index number (June 2023 = 100) Rents rose 3.7 per cent in the 12 months to August, following a 3.9 per cent rise in the 12 months to July. This is the lowest annual growth in rental prices since November 2022, consistent with stable vacancy rates across most capital cities. New dwelling prices rose 0.7 per cent in the 12 months to August, up from the 0.4 per cent rise in the 12 months to July. Annual growth in new dwelling prices remains low reflecting a subdued new home market. New dwellings and Rents, Australia, annual movement (%) Annual inflation for Food and non-alcoholic beverages was 3.0 per cent to August, unchanged from the annual inflation to July, and has remained around 3 per cent over the past 12 months.Prices for meat and seafood increased 2.9 per cent in the 12 months to August up from a 2.4 per cent rise to July.Fruit and vegetable prices increased 1.1 per cent in the 12 months to August down from a 4.8 per cent increase to July. In monthly terms, Vegetable prices fell 4.6 per cent in August with lower prices for broccoli, tomatoes and cauliflower.Grocery products, Australia, annual movement (%) Holiday travel and accommodation prices rose 1.1 per cent in the 12 months to August, after seeing a 3.3 per cent annual rise to July. In monthly terms, Holiday travel and accommodation prices fell 3.5 per cent in August after the July school holidays ended. 

NSW has cemented its position as Australia’s number one visitor economy, leading the nation in visitors, nights and expenditure in the financial year ending June 2025, according to Tourism Research Australia (TRA).The results align with the NSW Government's ambitious NSW Visitor Economy Strategy 2035, which sets targets of $91 billion in annual visitor expenditure, 40,400 new accommodation rooms, 8.5 million new airline seats and 150,000 additional jobs by 2035.Total visitor expenditure reached $55.9 billion, up 5.7 per cent year on year. International visitor expenditure grew even faster, rising 15.1 per cent to a record $13.9 billion.Other highlights included:124.6 million international and domestic visitors - 9.7 million more than Victoria and 44.8 million more than Queensland.3.9 million international visitors (+5.4 per cent year on year) — 1.1 million more than Victoria and 1.7 million more than Queensland.Four international markets surpassing 2019 visitor levels: South Korea (140 per cent), India (111 per cent), Philippines (132 per cent) and Vietnam (140 per cent).International expenditure reaching 123 per cent of 2019 levels.Average accommodation occupancy across NSW reached 74.6 per cent, up 1.2 per cent year on year and 2.7 per cent ahead of the national average (71.9 per cent).New England North West (+3.5 per cent) and the Blue Mountains (+2.7 per cent) recorded the strongest regional growth in occupancy.Sydney peaks included 94.5 per cent occupancy on New Year’s Eve and 89.1 per cent during Vivid Sydney.Total accommodation takings reached $7.1 billion, up three per cent year on year.China was the largest contributor to NSW’s international visitor growth (+23.7 per cent), followed by the United States and New Zealand.Sydney Airport recorded the highest seat capacity from mainland China of any Australian airport, welcoming its ninth mainland carrier, Juneyao Air, in December 2024 under the NSW Government’s Aviation Attraction Fund (AAF).Destination NSW has also supported more than 75 events across Sydney and regional NSW.Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said, “The numbers are in, and NSW remains the number one destination for domestic and international tourists. These record results confirm the NSW Government is firmly on track to achieve its goal of $59 billion in visitor expenditure by 2026.“The Minns Labor Government is focused on growing our visitor economy. Our strategy aims to build aviation capacity by adding 8.5 million seats through our Take Off Funds, and unlocking more than 40,000 new accommodation rooms through the new IDA pathway for hotel investment.“We already have the most outstanding destinations, experiences and events, and we will continue to drive investment in our visitor economy and strengthen NSW’s position as Australia’s leading destination for domestic and international visitors.FAST FACTSTotal domestic visitation to NSW increased 4.1 per cent to 120.7 million in the year ending June 2025Regional NSW was Australia’s top regional destination for domestic visitors, nights and expenditure during the periodThe North Coast was the state’s top domestic overnight holiday destination, attracting 1.5 million visitorsThe Hunter was the domestic day trip capital of regional NSW, welcoming two million visitors in the year ending June 20251.2 million international visitors to NSW engaged in a food experience during their trip (up 10.7 per cent year on year)3.3 million international visitors to NSW engaged in nature and outdoor-based activities during their trip (up 5.5 per cent year on year)46.7 per cent of domestic overnight visitors to Sydney visited Western Sydney. There were 1.5 million visitors to the region, who stayed 3.5 million nights and spent $0.9 billion.

Legendary rock band Metallica is turning up the volume on blood donation, joining forces with Australian Red Cross Lifeblood during its upcoming Australian tour to celebrate the lifesaving power of blood and plasma donors.The collaboration, in conjunction with Metallica’s foundation All Within My Hands, will see Aussie donors, who donate in selected CBD donor centres in the week before each tour stop, receive a limited-edition Metallica t-shirt designed by the band’s iconic artist SQUINDO.The one-of-a-kind design for Aussie donors features the band’s famous ‘A Sea of Hearts Beat As One’ lyric, encapsulated within a blood drop, as well as a visual nod to Aussie Metallica fans.The t-shirts will be available to donors who sign up, or have previously signed up to Lifeblood's loyalty program Lifeblood Gifts, and who donate at: Perth Donor Centre from October 25 to October 31; Adelaide Donor Centre from October 29 to November 4; Melbourne CBD Donor Centre from November 1–7; Brisbane Donor Centre from November 5–11; and at the Town Hall and York Street Donor Centres in Sydney from November 8–14.Australian Red Cross Lifeblood ’s Executive Director of Donor Experience, Cath Stone said Lifeblood was thrilled to be collaborating with Metallica and All Within My Hands to raise awareness of the critical need for blood donations and encourage more Australians to roll up their sleeves.“Metallica and their foundation’s commitment to making every tour stop a better place, by rallying fans to donate blood and plasma, is a selfless act that will have a lifesaving impact on so many individuals and their families,” Cath said.“With demand for blood at a 12-year-high and plasma demand at record levels, we hope this partnership will fuel an influx of Metallica fan donors that we can welcome home to our donor centres.“Don’t let blood donation be the day that never comes, because when you’re saving lives, nothing else matters.”This collaboration with Lifeblood builds on Metallica’s global legacy of giving, including its partnership with the American Red Cross. During the recent M72 World Tour in the US, Metallica and the All Within My Hands Foundation helped the Red Cross collect more than 2,000 blood and platelet donations to save lives through a series of Red Cross x Metallica blood drives and has recently announced an expansion of their partnership.Just one donation can save up to three lives and helps people living with cancer and immune deficiencies, new mothers, trauma patients and people undergoing surgery.*Fun fact: If you have tattoos you are likely to be eligible to donate. You can donate plasma straight away after a tattoo, as long as it was done in a licensed tattoo parlour in Australia. And you’ll need to wait just one week to give blood or platelets.To find out more and book a donation, visit lifeblood.com.au/metallica or call 13 14 95.

UniSA scientists will use a $2.9 million Federal Government grant to uncover the genetic drivers of diffuse midline glioma (DMG), the most devastating paediatric brain cancer that kills around 25 children in Australia every year.Associate Professor Quenten Schwarz will lead a team of researchers in Adelaide and Sydney over the next five years, using engineered and patient-derived stem cell technology to investigate the genetic abnormalities present in children with the disease and identify better treatment options. His project is one of three brain cancer research groups in Australia awarded a total of $23.3 million by theMedical Research Future Fund, announced over the weekend. With no cure, and an average survival rate of just nine months following diagnosis, Assoc Prof Schwarz says more research is urgently needed to address this brutal disease. “There has been very little progress made in identifying the causes and finding effective treatments for DMG over decades,” he says. “We need to do better”. “This grant offers an exciting opportunity to pioneer a new approach to uncover the genetic and environmental factors that lead to the development of childhood brain cancer. “There are limited treatment options right now, but we believe our research will provide vital insights into the mechanism behind the origins of DMG, paving the way for more effective therapies.” Led by UniSA’s Centre for Cancer Biology, the project will bring together leading brain tumour research groups across Adelaide and will be delivered in close collaboration with the Children’s Cancer Institute in Sydney. Adelaide father Steve Bickley lost his 11-year-old daughter Jess to brain cancer in September 2023, nine months after her first symptoms (recurring pain in her neck). “The diagnosis in April 2023 came like a bolt out of the blue,” Steve says. “Nothing can prepare you for that. We were told there was no cure, and ‘to go home and make memories’ for the short time that Jess had left.” In the past two years Steve has supported charities in Adelaide and interstate to fund much needed research into DMG in the hope that other parents can be spared the same fate in years to come. “Research is vital into this cruel and devastating disease. It’s heartening to know that Adelaide has some of the best brain cancer scientists in the country who will be doing everything possible to uncover the causes and best treatment options for DMG.” 

Train passengers and staff will be less at risk from lithium-ion battery fires as a result of a ban on converted e-bikes on the NSW rail network.Converted e-bikes are defined as regular pedal bikes that have been fitted with batteries and motors. These have a higher risk of electrical failure due and fire risk due to DIY installations, inadequate wiring and use of second-hand batteries and incompatible or poor-quality components.  Other e-bikes, shared e-bikes and mobility devices will not be impacted; however Transport for NSW will continue to monitor all e-micromobility incidents closely. The decision will not apply to travel on concourses, lifts, escalators, or bike storage facilities outside of the fare gates. Riders passing through community access gates will not be impacted. The growing popularity of e-bikes has meant a greater prevalence on our train network. Due to the risk of e-bike lithium-ion batteries igniting, and the additional risk posed by poorly made and modified devices, it will be illegal to take a converted e-bike on Sydney Trains, NSW Trainlink and Metro services from 1 November.Carriage of a restricted converted e-bike would carry a penalty notice offence of $400 with a maximum penalty of 10 penalty units ($1,110). This is comparable to the existing offence for carrying a petrol-powered device on a train or railway premises. Ahead of the ban coming into effect, passengers are being asked not to bring any converted e-bikes on these services.The move comes after extensive consultation with the rail and fire authorities, unions, e-bike users, delivery services, shared scheme operators and passengers. That engagement included a Transport for NSW Have Your Say consultation that received around 3000 responses, and a ministerial reference group with key stakeholders. We thank all parties who took part in the consultation.Transport has been monitoring the risk of lithium-ion fires after two recent e-bike fires at Liverpool Station in August, Blacktown Station in April (which involved a converted e-bike) and on a Melbourne suburban train in March. So far this year, Fire and Rescue NSW have reported 77 e-micromobility-related lithium-ion battery fires.To support the ban of converted e-bikes on trains, Transport will provide additional training for staff, conduct hotspot blitzes, and increase public messaging about the fire risk of modified devices.To improve standards across all e-bikes, the NSW and Victorian Transport Ministers have written a joint letter to the Commonwealth Government requesting their support in strengthening Australia’s approach to the safety of e-devices, to ensure that all devices imported, sold and used in Australia are safe and fit for purpose.The NSW Government recognises the increasingly important role e-micromobility devices will play in the future of public transport, including the ability to mode shift and complete the ‘last mile’ between metro and train stations and destinations. In order to safely integrate e-bikes the government is currently drafting legislation to better regulate shared devices. Minster for Transport John Graham said, “We take the safety of our rail passengers and staff very seriously, which is why we are taking the highest risk e-bikes out of train carriages.“The overwhelming message from the consultation was that banning all e-bikes from trains would go too far. Taking out the highest risk e-bikes is a sensible and balanced step, but we will watch this space very closely and take further action if necessary. “E-bikes are becoming more popular and playing an increasing role in our transport network. Our aim is to allow people to enjoy their advantages whilst keeping everyone safe.“It’s a timely reminder ahead of Christmas – if you’re thinking of getting an e-bike, take a look at the Fair Trading website and look for a quality bike, to make sure you’re investing in safety.” Transport for NSW Secretary Josh Murray said, “Electronic devices have transformed the way we live, work, and commute – but without boundaries, some have also introduced new risks and the potential to disrupt our safe rail operations. “This isn’t a matter of jumping at shadows. Our safety experts have been monitoring this emerging situation very closely, and we’re taking a sensible approach in consultation with our rail and transport operators. “We urge people to purchase good quality e-bikes that comply with minimum product safety standards and avoid any modification to their bike. “Put simply, the idea of blocked aisles, confined spaces and battery fires from risky devices don’t mix.” 

The NSW Government has passed legislation to strengthen Working with Children Checks (WWCC) to better protect children from harm.The legislation ensures only the Office of the Children’s Guardian – the state’s independent child safety regulator – will be responsible for reviewing WWCC decisions, removing external appeal pathways through the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT).This closes a loophole that previously allowed disqualified people to be granted a WWCC through the NCAT.Under the previous arrangements, people with serious criminal histories – including offences involving children – could be granted ‘enabling orders’ against advice of the Office of the Children’s Guardian. In some cases, this allowed disqualified individuals to return to child-related work.Now, the Office of the Children’s Guardian – the state’s independent child safety regulator – will be exclusively responsible for making and reviewing WWCC decisions. The NSW Government’s laws establish a robust internal appeals process within the Office of the Children’s Guardian to provide a more consistent and specialist approach to making and reviewing WWCC decisions, in accordance with community expectations.The legislation also ensures all negative notices from interstate jurisdictions will automatically apply in NSW, including people subject to interim bars in other states and territories.The NSW Government has also been leading the push for a national register of Working with Children Checks – so parents can be confident that anyone working with children has been properly cleared, no matter which state or territory they’ve previously worked in.Additional reforms to further strengthen the system are also being considered, with the Office of the Children’s Guardian soon to release a public discussion paper for community feedback.Minister for Families and Communities Kate Washington said, “NSW already has the strongest Working with Children Check system in the country and this week, we’ve made it stronger.“Parents who are taking their kids to childcare or weekend sport need to have confidence that their kids are safe, and they deserve to know that the adults in these settings are cleared to work with children.“The safety, welfare and wellbeing of kids is an absolute priority for the Minns Labor Government. We’re leading national conversations, and we’re closing loopholes to prevent perpetrators from sneaking through them.”

Australia's population grew by 1.6 per cent in cent in the 12 months to March 2025, according to the latest figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).Beidar Cho, ABS head of demography, said: 'Our population at 31 March 2025 was 27.5 million people, that's 423,400 more than the same time in 2024. ‘Natural increase, that is the number of people born minus those who died, added 107,400 people from March 2024 to March 2025. Both births and deaths registered in Australia went up by 2.1 per cent.‘We saw 315,900 people added to our population from overseas migration from March 2024 to March 2025. This compares with 493,800 people in the previous 12 months.'Western Australia had the fastest rise in population of 2.3 per cent with Victoria and Queensland equal second highest, as both grew by 1.8 per cent,' Ms Cho said.Tasmania saw the slowest growth over the 12-month period, with a 0.2 per cent rise in population. 

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin has welcomed a new Probationary Constable, Nicholas Batgaley, who joined the ranks of Tenterfield Police this month.This brings to five the number of police officers living and working in Tenterfield in the New England Local Area Command.Ms Saffin used a Community Recognition Statement in Parliament to welcome PC Batgaley, who hails from the Tweed-Byron area and previously visited Tenterfield for holidays.Ms Saffin said the recruit recently graduated from the Goulburn Police Academy, where he spent four months in training, and before that, four months via distance education.“A record-breaking total of 314 police recruits in Class 366 were sworn into the NSW Police Force late last month,” Ms Saffin said.“There has been a significant boost in police recruitment since the Minns Labor Government announced in October 2023 that we would pay recruits to study at the Academy.”Probationary Constable Batgaley, 23, put Tenterfield on his list of preferences and told local media he was delighted to be posted there for 12 months of one-the-job training.“He is living in police housing in town and is out and about on the Tenterfield beat. I wish PC Batgaley every success in his policing career.”

Businesses and investors are encouraged to get their Expressions of Interest (EOIs) ready, with the first round of the Investment Delivery Authority (IDA) to open within weeks.Announced today by NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey at the National Tech Summit, the first round of EOIs will accelerate approvals for major projects aligned with government priorities, focusing on advanced technology and energy, including data centres, renewable energy and energy security projects, as well as hotel developments critical to visitor economy growth.As the new front door to major investment, the IDA will break down barriers to large-scale private investment in NSW by cutting red tape, coordinating across government and encouraging large projects across the state.  The IDA, modelled off the successful Housing Delivery Authority, is expected to assist around 30 large projects per year, bringing forward up to $50 billion of investment into NSW – boosting innovation, jobs and productivity.The EOI process will open internationally and comes just weeks after the NSW Treasurer took part in the National Economic Reform Roundtable, where boosting investment and confidence in the business sector was identified as a key factor in driving productivity.  Eligibility criteria for the IDA include:A major project must be valued at $1 billion or more, be primarily non-residential, and related to data centres and technology, renewable energy and energy security Hotel developments must meet a $200 million threshold, supporting the delivery of the Visitor Economy Strategy 2035, which outlined the need for more diverse, high-quality accommodationApplicants must demonstrate a capability to commence development quickly, andIdentify where government can play a role in resolving barriersFuture EOI rounds will be expanded across other industries.Projects recommended by the IDA will receive fast-track approvals for key initiatives, and support from a dedicated planning assessment team and multi-agency Investment Taskforce based in the Premier’s Department.The Investment Delivery Authority was announced in the 2025-26 NSW Budget with $17.7 million to support its work to drive investment, innovation and growth.Comprised of the Secretary of the Premier’s Department, the Treasury Secretary, the Secretary of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure and the Chief Executive of Infrastructure NSW, the IDA will make recommendations to the Treasurer, the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and the Minister for Industry and Trade.Footage of the NSW Treasurer’s speech can be found here          A transcript of the NSW Treasurer’s speech can be found hereFurther information on eligibility criteria for the IDA is available at: https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/investment-nsw/investment-delivery-authority.Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said, “17 of Australia’s tech unicorns - billion-dollar companies - are based here in NSW. These businesses are the engines of jobs and growth.“Supporting innovative businesses to scale is one of the greatest opportunities we have to improve the productivity and sustainability of the NSW economy.“The Investment Delivery Authority is the vehicle to foster that growth – cutting red tape to boost productivity and jobs.”Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:“We want to attract major investment to NSW, so we have created this new mechanism to systematically identify major projects and their associated land use before they enter the planning system.“Just as we created the HDA to fast-track housing, we are now reforming the process for major new investment projects, so their needs are identified early, and the right resources and infrastructure are planned for and brought to bear.  “As part of the IDA, we will establish a dedicated planning assessments team within the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, because we know the important role planning can play speeding up and in coordinating resources investment approvals.”Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said, “The Minns Labor Government have set an ambitious target to grow our visitor economy to $91 billion by 2035, to achieve this, we need to deliver more than 40,000 new hotel rooms in NSW.“By including a pathway for hotels in the new Investment Delivery Authority, we are unlocking the private capital that will help turbocharge our states visitor economy.”Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said, “We have heard the frustrations of businesses loud and clear - it’s taking far too long to get major projects off the ground.“To secure our position in the future economy NSW needs to get the right infrastructure in place. That means things like data centres and renewable energy. And that’s why the first IDA EOI round will call for projects in these areas, along with hotels critical to the visitor economy.“The IDA will help move these projects from concept to construction faster accelerating productivity along the way.”Tech Council of Australia CEO, Damian Kassabgi said, “Collaboration between government and industry, including through targeted initiatives like this, is such an important driver of tech sector growth and the benefits that will deliver for this State. “Fast and centralised approvals for digital infrastructure will be vital to making the most of the AI opportunity for Australia.”

A girl has died after a single-vehicle crash at Tenterfield yesterday.About 3.30pm (Wednesday, 10 September 2025), emergency services were called to a dam on the Bruxner Highway near Bryans Gap Road, Tenterfield, following reports a car had crashed.Officers attached to New England Police District were told a black SUV had crashed into a tree before entering the dam and became submerged.The passenger – an 11-year-old girl – was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics after being pulled unresponsive from the water; however, she died at the scene.The driver – a 50-year-old woman – was also pulled from the water and treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to Tenterfield Hospital in a stable condition.Police have established a crime scene with officers attached to Crash Investigation Unit commencing an investigation into the incident.A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.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 total value of Australia’s residential dwellings rose by $213.8 billion (1.9 per cent) to $11.6 trillion in the June quarter 2025, according to figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Dr Mish Tan, ABS head of finance statistics, said: "June quarter’s growth in the value of dwellings followed a 0.3 per cent rise in the March quarter, with rises across all states and territories. Despite the quarterly rise in national dwelling values, annual growth continued to slow to 5.1 per cent, compared to the growth rate of 8.9 per cent in June 2024."The mean price of dwellings rose 1.4 per cent, reaching record highs in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia," Dr Tan said.The rise in mean prices was most evident in Western Australia (2.3 per cent), Queensland (2.2 per cent), New South Wales (1.1 per cent), Victoria (1.1 per cent) and South Australia (1.1 per cent).Further details can be found in Total Value of Dwellings, available for free download from the ABS website.

NSW’s capability for robotic, AI, digital and remote healthcare received a huge boost last night with the opening of the world class Perich Centre for Robotics and Health Technology in Liverpool.Minister for Medical Research David Harris joined leaders from the Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, and members of the Perich family to open the new facility.Co-located with Liverpool Hospital as part of the Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, the new centre will be a hub for more than 60 clinical scientists working in robotics, medical AI, digital health and remote diagnosis and intervention.The NSW Government backs the Ingham Institute as part of its $160 million Medical Research Support Program that funds the state’s vibrant research and innovation ecosystem.The Ingham Institute has received more than $24 million in NSW Government funding in recent years.Minister Harris praised the philanthropic generosity of the Perich family in helping to create the facility.The Perich Centre is a great example of the Government’s vision for the NSW Health Research and Innovation Strategy 2025 to 2030, and its focus on driving collaboration across NSW Government, health, academia and industry to keep NSW at the forefront of world-leading medical research.Research projects to be housed at the centre include:Remote sensing and wearable devices in midwifery, nursing and women’s healthAllied health led rehabilitation robotics and gamified therapy for acquired brain injuryDiverse application of digital solutions for diabetes prevention, child and adolescent wellbeing, and management of gastrointestinal diseaseAI and machine learning in cancer, cardiology, neurology and stroke treatmentCost-effectiveness studies of surgical roboticsAdvanced immersive training environments for future health leaders.Minister for Medical Research David Harris said, “With its focus on collaboration at the cutting edge of healthcare, Ingham Institute’s new Centre for Robotics and Health Technology, the Perich Centre, will strengthen Ingham Institute’s position as a national and global leader in digital and robotic healthcare.“The NSW Government is committed to ensuring access to life-changing innovation for everyone in the state and this new centre will enable researchers to pioneer new technologies to help ensure no matter where people live - including those in disadvantaged and regional, rural and remote communities - they can have the best possible care.“The Ingham Institute has a strong focus on translating research from benchtop to bedside for the diverse local communities of South Western Sydney and beyond. This new centre will be the new physical home for that mission, and the NSW Government looks forward to supporting their efforts to ensure a world-class health system in NSW.”

Australian gross domestic product (GDP) rose 0.6 per cent in the June quarter 2025 (seasonally adjusted, chain volume measure) and 1.8 per cent compared to a year ago. This release includes the first estimates of the 2024-25 financial year - with GDP rising by 1.3 per cent for the 2024-25 financial year according to figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Tom Lay, ABS head of national accounts, said: 'Economic growth rebounded in the June quarter following subdued growth in the March quarter, which was heavily impacted by weather events.’Domestic final demand was the main driver of growth, led by household and government spending. Public investment was the largest detractor from growth. Net trade also contributed to GDP growth, led by exports of mining commodities.GDP per capita increased 0.2 per cent this quarter, following a decrease in the March quarter. Household spending roseHousehold spending rose 0.9 per cent in the June quarter after a 0.4 per cent rise in the March quarter. Discretionary spending led the rise increasing 1.4 per cent, while essential spending increased 0.5 per cent. Tom Lay said, ‘End of financial year sales and new product releases contributed to rises in discretionary spending on goods including furnishings and household equipment, motor vehicles and recreation and culture goods'. ‘Households took advantage of the proximity of Easter to ANZAC day to extend their holiday break, resulting in rises in discretionary services such as hotels, cafes and restaurants and recreation and culture services,’ Mr Lay added. Health led essential spending in the June quarter, with households accessing more medical services amid a strong flu season. Food spending also increased, supported by increased promotional activity from major supermarket chains.Public investment fellPublic investment fell 3.9 per cent and was the largest detractor from growth. Excluding the Covid period, this was the largest fall since September 2017. The fall was driven by a decrease in state government expenditure on transport and health infrastructure, and a fall in defence investment. Defence investment remains elevated in annual terms.Government spending roseGovernment final consumption expenditure rose 1.0 per cent in the June quarter after recording 0.3 per cent growth in the March quarter. National non-defence expenditure was the biggest contributor with the strongest quarter on quarter rise in social benefits to households over the 2024-25 financial year. High demand for health services resulted in rises in spending on the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) and Pharmaceutical Benefits Schemes (PBS). Spending by the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) to conduct the 2025 federal election also contributed to the rise in National non-defence expenditure. Defence spending also rose due to military exercises this quarter. State and local spending fell as electricity rebate schemes wound down.Private investment rosePrivate investment remained relatively unchanged, increasing 0.1 per cent in the June quarter, following a 0.6 per cent rise in the March quarter. Increases in intellectual property products and housing investment were offset by falls in non-dwelling construction. Total dwelling investment was subdued following strength in the March quarter. The fall in non-dwelling investment was driven by new engineering construction with falls in renewable energy projects and mining investment. New building investment also fell with a fall in office and warehouse investment.Net trade contributed to growthNet trade contributed to growth in the June quarter, adding 0.1 percentage points to GDP. Growth in exports was driven by goods, led by iron ore and LNG, both of which saw a rebound in production following severe weather disruptions in the March quarter. Exports of services also increased, driven by short-term visitor arrivals, particularly those travelling to visit family and friends in Australia.Imports of services was the largest detractor to net trade led by travel services. While the number of Australians on holiday overseas remained steady, average spending per traveller increased with an increase to long-haul destinations such as the UK and Italy. Imports of goods also detracted, led by consumption goods including cars and clothing and footwear.Household saving ratio fellThe household saving to income ratio fell to 4.2 per cent in the June quarter from 5.2 per cent in the March quarter. The rise in gross disposable income of 0.6 per cent was outpaced by a rise in nominal household spending of 1.5 per cent.The rise in gross disposable income was driven by growth in compensation of employees (+1.2 per cent). Fewer severe weather events during the quarter resulted in lower insurance claims paid compared to the previous quarter and partly reduced total household income for the June quarter.Impact of the proximity of the Easter and ANZAC day public holidaysEaster Monday and ANZAC day occurred 3 days apart in the same week in 2025. These holidays are in close proximity infrequently with previous occurrences in 2019, 2014, 2011 and 2003. It will occur again in 2030 and 2041. This close proximity may have impacted economic aggregates such as hours worked and household consumption in the June quarter 2025, with increased numbers of people taking time off between the two public holidays. Statistical significance tests have not shown any significant impacts but will be repeated when we have September quarter data. On this basis, no additional seasonal adjustments have been made.