A man has been charged by detectives attached to the Counter Terrorism and Specialist Tactics Command after an investigation into an alleged violent call to action via social media.The social media post, which allegedly called for protesters to attend a beach in Sydney’s south later this week, with the purpose of inciting violence, was detected by officers attached to Operation Shelter on Monday, 15 December 2025.Following extensive inquiries, police arrested a 20-year-old man in Narara about 1.40pm yesterday (Sunday, 21 December 2025).The man was taken to Gosford Police Station, where he was charged with use carriage service to menace, harass, offend and publicly threaten violence on grounds of race/religion.He was refused bail to appear in Gosford Local Court today (Monday, 22 December 2025).The organiser has not obtained authorisation for the assembly under Part 4 of the Summary Offences Act 1988. Without this authorisation, the event is not legally protected as an authorised assembly and individuals who choose to attend may be liable for obstruction and unlawful assembly offences.The public are reminded that anyone considering violence, retribution or vigilante behaviour can expect a swift and decisive response from police.While the NSW Police Force recognises people may want to protest due to recent events both here and overseas, we are asking the community to choose other ways to come together peacefully.Police will respond to any anti-social behaviour, and we encourage the community to report any crime to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or in an emergency to dial Triple Zero. The NSW Police Force will also continue to take strong action against anyone who engages in criminal activity that is motivated by hate and anyone who believes they may be the victim of such a crime is urged to come forward.Now is a time for healing, unity and supporting one another. As we move toward 2026, it is vital that we stand together to ensure NSW remains a safer and inclusive place for everyone.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has asked the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet to lead a review into Australia’s federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies. A statement released today said:The Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet will examine whether federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies have the right powers, structures, processes and sharing arrangements in place to keep Australians safe in the wake of the horrific antisemitic Bondi Beach terrorist attack. The ISIS-inspired atrocity last Sunday reinforces the rapidly changing security environment in our nation. Our security agencies must be in the best position to respond. The review will be led by Dennis Richardson - a former Secretary of the Department of Defence, former Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and former Intelligence Chief.  The review will build on the work of the Independent Intelligence Review, conducted by Richard Maude and Heather Smith. The review will be provided to the Government by the end of April 2026 and will be made publicly available.

Koala sightings could soon become much more common in the Coffs Harbour area thanks to an initiative that will provide a new home for the furry Aussie icon.Ground has been prepared for about 5000 koala habitat trees to be planted in areas around the Coffs Harbour bypass, and planting is about 90 per cent complete.A total of about eight hectares have been prepared and planted in areas starting around Mackays Road, Roberts Hill and Bruxner Park to West Korora Road.Work has also been carried out to restore habitat in areas where land was cleared before construction started, and to re-establish koala movement corridors.  The project team will also install nine kilometres of fauna exclusion fencing on each side of the highway, build 15 fauna connectivity structures under the alignment and a set of glider poles for overhead passage, to help native fauna movement east and west of the bypass. Transport for NSW Secretary, Josh Murray, said the best way to lift koala numbers was to provide them with safe places to live, feed and breed.“We’re making an enormous effort during construction of the bypass to provide important habitat linkages for a range of native flora and fauna that occur in the Coffs Harbour area,” Mr Murray said.“And we’re making a special effort to provide the right environment for koalas in these important wildlife corridor areas.“The land has been prepared and, over the next 15 to18 months, we’ll be planting thousands of habitat trees to provide food and shelter for these iconic marsupials.”Mr Murray said Transport for NSW was working with a local plant nursery for the tube stock supply.“It’ll take about eight to ten years before trees are large enough to support koalas; however, we’ve prepared the land well and are confident the mix of local koala food trees will thrive in this environment,” he said.“We made some refinements during the detailed design phase of the bypass and, as a result, were able to provide at least an additional four hectares of land for habitat that’s suitable for koalas and other native species.“It’s a great outcome for the species and for Coffs Harbour.”The bypass team will plant in excess of 50,000 trees in areas around the route as well as securing more than 300 hectares of native vegetation as part of the project’s biodiversity offset properties, improving the environment for all flora and fauna.

Australia's population grew by 1.5 per cent in the 12 months to June 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 30 June 2025 was 27.6 million people, 420,100 more than in June 2024.Natural increase, the number of births minus those who died, added 114,600 people from June 2024 to June 2025. Both the number of births and deaths registered in Australia also increased by 3.4 per cent and 0.3 per cent, respectively.Net overseas migration was 305,600 people from June 2024 to June 2025. There were 568,400 overseas migration arrivals and 262,800 departures.Western Australia again had the fastest rise in population of 2.2 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.

In the aftermath of the Bondi terrorist attack, the clear message from the Jewish community leaders has been that we need unambiguous support for our Jewish community.Today the Minns Labor Government is asking faith and community leaders from around the state to pledge their support to the Jewish community. This is a call to action for our faith and community leaders; we need everyone to meet words with action. The NSW Government is currently undertaking a whole-of-government response to ensure our Jewish community are supported. The statement reads:“In the wake of the unspeakable attack on our Jewish community at Bondi Beach, we come together across cultural, linguistic and religious differences to make a unified pledge: We collectively mourn for victims and their families and pledge our support and solidarity for the Jewish community in NSW. We pledge to stand up and stand united against antisemitism, racism and hate and to support all victims of racism, hate and religious intolerance. We pledge to protect and promote the rights and responsibilities of all the people of NSW in a cohesive and multicultural society.We pledge to work in unity across cultural, linguistic and religious differences to uphold our democratic values and freedoms.We are stronger together.” To sign the pledge, please visit: Support pledge - Bondi attack.Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said, “In the wake of this horrific attack, it is more important than ever that the Jewish community in NSW knows they do not stand alone.“Every community leader. Every faith leader. Must be unambiguous in their support of our Jewish community.“It will take everyone working together to ensure we can properly address the insidious affliction that is antisemitism.”President of the Jewish Board of Deputies David Ossip said, “The trauma of the Bondi terrorist attack on the Jewish community is simply incalculable. The hurt and the loss are profound.“Now more than ever, we need everyone to come together. Now is a time for unity. Now is a time for us to spread light and to unequivocally call for an end to antisemitism. Our Jewish community needs your support.“Please show that we are stronger together. Let’s work together to bring about a return to the Australia we love.”

The NSW Joint Counter Terrorism Team has formally charged a 24-year-old man, alleged to be one of two gunmen responsible for the Bondi Beach mass shooting that claimed the lives of 15 people.About 6.40pm on Sunday, 14 December 2025, emergency services were called to Bondi Beach following reports of a public place shooting.Officers attached to Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command, surrounding commands, and specialist police responded and located two men using long arms to fire into crowds of people.Multiple officers exchanged fire with the gunmen, and two officers – a constable and probationary constable – suffered gunshot wounds.During the incident, one gunman – a 50-year-old man – was shot by police and died at the scene.The second gunman – his 24-year-old son – suffered critical injuries and was taken to hospital under police guard.Fifteen people died during the attack, with 41 people – including four children – taken to hospital.There are currently 20 patients continuing to receive care across several Sydney hospitals.Those who died are still in the process of being formally identified; however, police believe their ages range between 10 and 87.Of the two injured officers, the constable is in a critical but stable condition, while the probationary constable is in a stable condition.NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon APM declared the incident terror-related, and the investigation was referred to the NSW Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCCT) under Operation Arques.The NSW JCTT comprises members from the NSW Police Force, Australian Federal Police, Australian Security Intelligence Organisation and the NSW Crime Commission.Following extensive inquiries under Operation Arques, today (Wednesday 17 December), JCTT investigators attended a hospital where they charged a 24-year-old Bonnyrigg man with 59 offences, including:Commit terrorist act15 counts of murder40 counts of cause wounding/grievous bodily harm to person with intent to murderDischarge firearm etc intend cause grievous bodily harmCause public display of prohibited terrorist org symbolPlace explosive in/near building with intent cause harmPolice will allege in court that the man engaged in conduct that caused death, serious injury and endangered life to advance a religious cause and cause fear in the community. Early indications point to a terrorist attack inspired by ISIS, a listed terrorist organisation in Australia.He remains in hospital under police guard to face Bail Division Local Court 7 via AVL today.Anyone with information about extremist activity or possible threats to the community should come forward, no matter how small or insignificant you may think the information may be. The National Security Hotline is 1800 123 400.

The 2024 Time Use Survey data was released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). This survey provides a broad snapshot of how Australians spend their time, and is used by governments to inform policy about family support, gender equality, workplaces and the value of unpaid work and looking after children.Here are 7 things you might not know about how Australians used their time in 2024:1. Feeling the time crunchAustralians are feeling time pressures, with more than a third of females (36 per cent) and 30 per cent of males reporting they always or often feel rushed for time.2. Working from home in more ways than onePeople who work from home spend an hour longer doing unpaid work during their workday. On average, those who worked from home spent 3 hours and 24 minutes doing unpaid work, compared with 2 hours and 26 minutes for those who worked outside the home. 3. Females still doing more at homeFemales continued to spend more time on unpaid work, averaging 4 hours and 53 minutes a day, while males spent 3 hours and 52 minutes.Unpaid work includes domestic duties like housework, food and drink preparation and shopping, as well as looking after children, other adults and volunteering.4. Who's looking after the kids?Mothers spend more time looking after children (4 hours 38 minutes) than fathers (3 hours 29 minutes). This includes things like providing personal care like feeding, bathing or changing, playing or helping with homework.5. Juggling life with little onesJust under one quarter (23 per cent) of people supervised a child while doing another activity (e.g., cooking, gardening, or watching TV) for an average of 7 hours 8 minutes a day. When doing paid work, 9 per cent of people were also supervising a child, for an average of 5 hours 41 minutes a day.6. Turning on the telly!Watching TV or streaming was the most reported free time activity, with 62 per cent of people switching on for an average of 2 hours and 55 minutes a day. 7. Youth chasing XP, top gaming ladderAlmost a quarter of young people aged 15-24 (23 per cent) reported playing video or mobile games. Young male gamers spent an average of 3 hours and 56 minutes gaming, while females spent 2 hours and 25 minutes.Find more interesting insights from the latest release of How Australians use their time.

On Monday, NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper convened an emergency meeting of the Faith Affairs Council, and religious leaders from some of the state’s largest denominations, after Sunday’s terrorist attack in Bondi targeting a Chanukah event.Council members and faith leaders expressed their deepest sympathies for the people killed in the horrific attack, reiterated their solidarity with the Jewish community, and unanimously reaffirmed the joint Faith Affairs Council and Multicultural Advisory Board communique made on Sunday night.That statement can be found here, and a full list of the attending 25 leaders are listed below.Minister Kamper, addressing the meeting, conveyed the government’s heartbreak, encouraged leaders and their communities to reach out to their Jewish counterparts, and affirmed that Australians of all faiths must work together, unambiguously, to restore faith in NSW’s multiculturalism.Senior Jewish clergy leaders addressed the meeting, including Rabbi Benjamin Elton – of Sydney’s The Great Synagogue – and Rabbi Nochum Shapiro, of Chabad House of the North Shore and President of the Rabbinical Association of Australasia.Rabbi Shapiro conveyed to fellow faith leaders that tangible ways for their communities to show support for Jewish Australians was to light a Chanukah candle or engage in tangible acts of charity, to fight the darkness with light.Right Rev Dr Michael Stead, the Faith Affair’s Council chair, said that faith leaders had stood together with one voice to condemn Sunday’s horrific attack and voice support for Jewish Australians.Dr Stead, who chaired Monday’s meeting, also applauded the strong statements of support for the Jewish community that many individual faith organisations had proactively issued.Sheikh Shadi Alsuleiman, president of the Australian National Imams Council, said the Muslim community’s heart went out to Jewish Australians, calling it a targeted attack on their community but one that also cut to the heart of every Australian.Archbishop Kanishka Raffel of the Anglican Church of Australia conveyed that Jewish leaders had recounted how their community had felt increasingly alone and urged attendees to collectively embrace the grieving community.Andrew Harper of the Australian Christian Churches relayed how his young daughter on Sunday night asked if she was safe, and reflected how that emotion was something, tragically, felt across the Jewish community. Faith leaders affirmed that their communities would stand firmly in solidarity with Jewish Australians, and would work collaboratively on action to address antisemitism and hatred.Right Rev Dr Michael Stead, of the Anglican Church of Australia, said:"The meeting was a demonstration of our faith communities at their best – coming together in our shared grief to express our compassion and support for Jewish brothers and sisters, and to state unequivocally with one voice our utter condemnation of this evil terrorist attack.“By continuing to work together in love and respect, we will build peace and harmony in our nation.” Leaders in attendance:Right Rev Dr Michael Stead - Anglican Church of Australia -Sydney Anglicans Imam Shadi Alsuleiman - Australian National Imams Council  Bishop Christophoros - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia Rev Dr Steve Bartlett - Baptist Churches of NSW/ACT Rev Dr Manas Ghosh - Uniting Church in Australia Synod of NSW/ACT Rev Dr Kamal Weerakoon - Presbyterian Church of Australia in NSW Ms Monica Doumit - Catholic Church in Australia -Archdiocese in Sydney Mr Darren Bark - Better Balanced Futures Rev Bill Crews AM - Ashfield Parish Mission Mr Murray Norman - ICCOREIS Rev Heather Topp - Buddhist Council of NSW Ms Katherine Xavier - Catholic Diocese of Parramatta  Ms Monica Chahoud - Melkite Catholic Eparchy of Australia, New Zealand and all Oceania Dr Ali Al Samail - Australian Ahl Al Bait Islamic Centre Mr Gawaine Powell Davies - Buddhist Council of NSW Mr Bhante Sujato - Buddhist Council of NSW Mr Pandit Shankarnarayan Ramachandra Athreiya - Hindu Council of Australia  Mr Andrew Harper - Australian Christian Churches Rabbi Benjamin Elton - Great Synagogue Rabbi Nochum Shapiro - Chabad House Bishop Antione Tarabay - Maronite Catholic Eparchy of Saint Maron of Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher - Catholic Church in Australia -Archdiocese in Sydney Archbishop Kanishka Raffel - Anglican Church of Australia -Sydney Anglicans Imam Ahmed Abdo - Australian National Imams Council  Mr Khalid Mousa - Australian National Imams Council - General Manager Mr Joseph La Posta - Multicultural NSW CEO

The NSW Premier, Chris Minns, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, NSW Police Commissioner Mary Lanyon and NSW Ambulance Commissioner Dominic Morgan addressed the media Monday morning regarding further details of the Sunday evening's Bondi Beach shooting in which 16 people are dead, and 40 are injured. CHRIS MINNS, PREMIER OF NEW SOUTH WALES: I'm joined with the Prime Minister, the Minister for Police, the Commissioner for New South Wales Ambulance, and of course, Mal Lanyon, the New South Wales Police Commissioner. It's a very sad duty this morning to report that 16 people have been confirmed as being killed. 15 innocent people and one perpetrator. There are 42 people in New South Wales hospitals overnight, and the victims' age ranges are from as young as 10 to 87. A devastating fact. New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon will speak in a moment about Operation Shelter, the circumstances of this investigation, the counterterrorism plan from New South Wales Police, and the latest in relation to community safety, as well as the New South Wales Government's and the New South Wales Police's inquiry into this devastating crime. Obviously, the Jewish community in New South Wales are absolutely devastated this morning. And it's our responsibility to wrap our arms around that wounded community and let them know that ordinary Australians, regular Australians, are in their corner and thinking of them this morning after this terrible, terrible, targeted attack on what should have been a joyful event that they have every right to share with their community on Bondi Beach last night. We need to send a strong and clear repudiation of antisemitism in all of its forms. In all of its forms. There is no tolerance for racism or Jewish hatred in New South Wales or Australia. And we need to be clear and unambiguous that we will fight it everywhere we see it, whether it's destructive, horrible acts of violence or chance mottos and internet posts on the internet. Wherever it is, we need to fight antisemitism. It is toxic. It is cancerous within a community. And as you can see from last night, it leads to devastating, devastating implications for the people of our country. There's been overwhelming public outrage and support from the people of New South Wales, and I think from the people of Australia. There needs to be a time for mourning. We need to be in a position to bind up the wounds of the state's Jewish community. And many people are asking how they can help. The first thing, of course, is to listen to New South Wales Police and emergency services. But if you are looking for something practical to do, you could give blood. We saw extraordinary scenes from New South Wales public hospitals last night. Emergency departments, at the drop of a hat, were in the process of saving scores of lives. They did an incredible job, but they need your help. They need blood. And if you're thinking about doing an act of public service in the coming 24 hours, I'd urge you to contact the Red Cross and do that piece of public mindedness, that piece of public spiritedness. I want to say thank you to our amazing police force, who acted bravely and diligently in incredibly difficult circumstances. Thank you to the paramedics who, in some cases, under fire, transported the injured to New South Wales hospitals, to the doctors and nurses in our public hospitals, and lastly, thank you to innocent bystanders and civilians who stood up, risked their own lives to save other people's lives. This is a terrible, wanton act of destructive violence. But there are still amazing people that we have in Australia, and they showed their true colours last night. I'm going to pass over to the Prime Minister and then New South Wales Police Commissioner.ANTHONY ALBANESE, PRIME MINISTER: Thanks very much, Premier. What we saw yesterday was an act of pure evil, an act of antisemitism, an act of terrorism on our shores in an iconic Australian location, Bondi Beach. That is associated with joy, associated with families gathering, associated with celebrations. And it is forever tarnished by what has occurred last evening. This was an attack deliberately targeted at the Jewish community on the first day of Chanukah, which of course should be a joyous celebration. The Jewish community are hurting today. Today, all Australians wrap our arms around them and say, we stand with you. We will do whatever is necessary to stamp out antisemitism. It is a scourge and we will eradicate it together. The Australian Federal Police and ASIO are working closely with New South Wales authorities. And the briefing we've just had, we have had the AFP there and the AFP Commissioner will return to Australia today. We will dedicate every single resource that is required in responding to this. To the brave first responders, including ordinary citizens who acted yesterday - thank you for what you do. People rushing towards danger to show the best of the Australian character. That's who we are, people who stand up for our values. Flags will fly at half-mast across the country today as we pay our respects to all those lost and all those who have been injured. And we conclude by saying that yesterday was indeed a dark day in our nation's history. But we as a nation are stronger than the cowards who did this. I thank world leaders who have reached out from President Trump, President Macron, Prime Minister Starmer, others right around the world have reached out to Australia at this time and we thank you for your sympathy and your solidarity with our values. Australia will never submit to division, violence or hatred and we will come through this together. We refuse to let them divide us as a nation. I'll hand to Commissioner Lanyon now.MAL LANYON, NSW POLICE COMMISSIONER: Thank you, Prime Minister. Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Last night I announced that I had determined that it was a terrorist activity and made a declaration as such at 9.36pm. As a result of that declaration, we commenced Operation Arques, which is a joint counterterrorism operation. That is New South Wales Police working very closely with our Commonwealth partners to ensure that we thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the incident yesterday. We have progressed at pace overnight with that investigation. As a result of investigations undertaken, I can say that we are not looking for a further offender. We are satisfied that there were two offenders involved in yesterday's incident. One is deceased, the second is in critical but stable condition in hospital at the moment. The offenders are a 50-year-old and 24-year-old male who are father and son. The 50-year-old is deceased. The 24-year-old is currently in hospital at the moment. As part of the investigation, we conducted two search warrants last night. One at Bonnyrigg and a second at Campsie. The 50-year-old male is a licenced firearms holder. He has six firearms licenced to him. We are satisfied that we have six firearms from the scene yesterday, but also as a result of the search run at the Campsie address, ballistics and forensic investigation will determine this morning that those six firearms are the six that were licenced to that man, but also that they were used in the offence yesterday at Bondi. We will continue to investigate this matter thoroughly. It's important for the community to have the reassurance that New South Wales Police, working with our Commonwealth partners, will not stop until we understand the reasons behind this senseless incident and take any available action that we need to do. We always work closely with our Commonwealth partners to make sure that we keep the community safe. This is a very difficult time for all law enforcement agencies and I would really like to call out the work of New South Wales Ambulance last night and we're joined by the Commissioner Morgan this morning. The ambulance officers were absolutely outstanding in their response. 16 deceased persons is obviously a great tragedy for this state. Our thoughts, prayers and love go out to all of the families of the deceased. We pray that those who are injured recover quickly. I have two police officers currently in hospital at the moment. Both are in critical but stable condition. And again, the thoughts of the New South Wales Police are very much with those officers and their families. This morning, we commenced Operation Shelter. It is an operation that we have previously run. We have escalated the number of police that are involved. Operation Shelter is designed to provide comfort to the Jewish community. We will make sure that we are highly visible at places of worship, places that are known to be frequented by the Jewish community, but very much in those suburbs where we know that we have a large Jewish population. I want to make it very clear that the New South Wales Police will not tolerate the types of violence or the types of antisemitic behaviour that we have seen. We will have 328 officers on the ground this morning as part of Operation Shelter. That operation will continue to work very closely with the Jewish community to make sure that we both prevent but also respond to anything that may happen. I was very clear last night to call for calm. This is not a time for anyone to be seeking retribution. This is a time for community to grieve and to heal. The New South Wales Police will do what it does best and that is to prevent but investigate offences that happen. And we will be here to support the community. I might hand over to Commissioner Morgan. I think if there's anything you'd like to say, sir.DOMINIC MORGAN, NSW AMBULANCE COMMISSIONER: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Could I just express my condolences to the victims, the families and friends and certainly those that remain in hospital at this time. Our best wishes and prayers are going out to you. This was obviously a significant incident that has occurred at Bondi Beach last night. New South Wales Ambulance got its initial call via New South Wales Police at 18:43 last evening. Our first crews were on scene within less than ten minutes. This took a response of more than 123 personnel from New South Wales Ambulance. Both New South Wales Police and New South Wales Ambulance worked seamlessly, I'm advised, through this entire incident in support of the community. I cannot convey how important that is. We are told stories of amazing heroism of paramedics and police working seamlessly together with members of the community. Some of our paramedics are from the Jewish community and attended that scene and continued their duties diligently and professionally. Of that initial response, New South Wales Ambulance transported 24 patients, particularly in the first wave, and attended 14 people who were deceased at the scene. Through the course of the evening, another two people succumbed to their conditions at New South Wales hospitals, and a total of 42 people attended New South Wales facilities. It is not uncommon in these major incidents for members of the community, sometimes often with very serious injuries, to make their own way to hospitals so that they are not burdening the resources, the services. This is what it means to be Australian. I do want to make the point that there is significant amount of support available from the New South Wales Health Service system. I could commend to the community that there are great resources available on the New South Wales Health website if you need mental health support and some reference material if you also need that. Just in conclusion, I do want to make the point - there were some amazing lessons learned from the Bondi Westfield Shopping Centre. Last night, I am told the command structures were seamless. The joint agency approach, the ability for paramedics, with the support of police, to work in these hot zones, I'm absolutely convinced, contributed to the saving of lives that otherwise would have been lost. Finally, just one message for the first responders at these scenes. You are an inspiration to us all. The way you put yourself in harm's way, your courage and resilience, we all thank you.

Police are continuing to investigate a mass shooting that resulted in 16 people dying and 40 people being injured in Sydney’s east yesterday evening.About 6.40pm (Sunday, 14 December 2025), emergency services were called to Bondi Beach, following reports of a public place shooting.Officers attached to Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command, surrounding commands and specialist police immediately responded and located two men using long arms to fire into crowds of people.Multiple officers exchanged fire with the two men, with two officers – a constable and probationary constable – suffering gunshot wounds.During the incident, one shooter – a 50-year-old man – was shot by police and died at the scene.The other shooter – a 24-year-old man – suffered critical injuries and was taken to hospital under police guard.As a result of the incident, 14 people died at the scene, and 42 people – including four children – were taken to hospitals across SydneyPolice have since been told two other people – a 10-year-old girl and a 40-year-old man – have since died in hospital.Those who died are yet to be formally identified; however, police believe their ages range between 10 and 87 years old.Five people remain in critical condition, with the others remaining in serious and stable conditions.Both officers remain in serious but stable conditions.A significant crime scene has been established, closing Bondi Beach and surrounding roads, and detectives from the Joint Counter Terrorism Team have commenced an investigation into the incident.Following initial inquiries, detectives have located and seized three firearms from the scene. They will all undergo forensic examination.Investigations are continuing.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 Public Information and Inquiry Centre (PIIC) has been activated to support the multi-agency response to the Bondi Beach incident.The Public Information and Inquiry Centre can be contacted by calling 1800 227 228Members of the public can contact the Public Information and Inquiry Centre for information relating to people impacted by this afternoon’s incident.It will operate on a 24-hour basis for as long as is necessary.The NSW Police Force has also activated the ‘Register Find Reunite’ capability, to assist in the registration of those who have been affected by the incident.Police are encouraging those impacted to register their movements using the Australian Red Cross’ ‘Register, Find, Reunite’ service.The Register, Find, Reunite website – https://www.redcross.org.au/emergencies/about-register-find-reunite/ –is a National system managed and operated by Australian Red Cross.It is a service which registers, finds and reunites family, friends and loved ones after an emergency. It allows people to,Register to let people know they are safe,Find people who may be affected by an emergency and know they are safe, andReunite through a matching process which enables police – with consent – to share details of family and friends with each other.The PIIC will also be the place to register for people who were forced to leave personal possessions – including vehicles – behind during the emergency. Police warn if may be some days until these can be returned to their owners.A memorial site is being arranged and will be shared once confirmed.

A police operation is ongoing after a public place shooting by two men at Bondi Beach earlier today.Ten people have been confirmed dead, including a man believed to be one of the shooters. The second alleged shooter is in a critical condition.At this time, a further 11 people are reported to be injured, two of whom are police officers.Emergency services were called to Campbell Parade about 6.45pm (Sunday, 14 December 2025), responding to reports of shots being fired.Officers attached to Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command attended, assisted by multiple resources across the city.A number of suspicious items located in the vicinity are being examined by specialist officers, and an exclusion zone is in place.A multi-agency response is continuing.An extensive crime scene has been established, and inquiries are now underway. There have been NO reports of any other incidents in Sydney connected to this incident.Police are now appealing for anyone with mobile phone vision or dashcam vision relevant to this incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.Police said the number of casualties is expected to change as the operation continues. Police are continuing to remind the public to avoid the area. 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.

People hoping to welcome a four-legged friend to the family this Christmas are being encouraged to adopt from council pounds and shelters to give dogs and cats in need a loving furr-ever home. Pets are part of the family in thousands of NSW households, with over 78,000 dogs and 37,000 cats registered across the state this year alone. But for those animals that don’t have a home, adopting from a council pound or rehoming organisation rather than buying from a breeder or pet shop gives them a second chance at life.   In the year ending 30 June 2025, 5,043 cats and 4,301 dogs were adopted from council pounds, up more than 10 per cent on the previous year. Adopting takes pressure off animal rehoming organisations, many of which are run solely by volunteers who give their time to care for some of the most vulnerable animals in the state.  The NSW Government is providing a much-needed boost to animal rehoming organisations, committing $6 million in funding over the next four years to help these organisations continue caring and rehoming animals across NSW.  This funding complements further work the NSW Government is doing in this space, including the first comprehensive review of the Companion Animals Act in more than 20 years. The Minns Labor Government has also banned puppy framing in NSW, with tougher laws for dog breeders coming into effect on 1 December this year. To adopt a pet, contact your local council for information on council pounds, or visit an approved rehoming organisation. Pet owners are also being reminded to ensure their dogs and cats are microchipped and registered on the NSW Digital Pet Registry. Registration is free-of-charge for desexed cats and dogs adopted from pounds, animal shelters and approved rehoming organisations.Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said, “It’s fantastic to see an increase in the number of pets adopted from council pounds over the last year.“While this makes a huge difference, there are still so many loving dogs and cats waiting for a family and a home to call their own this Christmas.“Adopting a pet doesn’t just change their life, it can change yours. Pets bring love and companionship and are cherished members of the family in so many NSW households.“I’d encourage anyone who is thinking about welcoming a pet to the family this Christmas to contact their local council or find their nearest rehoming centre.“Bringing a pet home is a long-term commitment, so it’s important anyone who is thinking of adopting understands this responsibility and is ready to provide the love and care their new pet needs.”  Animal Welfare League NSW Acting CEO Mark Seymour said, “The Animal Welfare League NSW supports the Minister’s call to adopt rather than shop this Christmas.“Every year we see how life-changing adoption can be, both for the animal and the family who welcomes them home.“In 2024/25, Animal Welfare League NSW helped rehome more than 3,500 cats and dogs across New South Wales. Every one of those animals deserved a second chance, and thousands more across the state are still waiting for theirs.“Choosing adoption eases pressure on local shelters and pounds, keeps vulnerable animals safe, and gives families a loyal companion who will bring years of love and joy. “We encourage anyone considering a pet this Christmas to visit their local shelter and give a rescue animal the home they deserve.”

The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was steady at 4.3 per cent in November, according to data released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Sean Crick, ABS head of labour statistics, said: ‘The unemployment rate has remained at 4.3 per cent in five of the last six months. ‘Both the number of unemployed and employed people fell in November, by 2,000 and by 21,000 respectively.’Full-time employment fell by 57,000 people, with males falling by 40,000 and females by 16,000 people. Part-time employment partly offset the fall in full-time employment, rising by 35,000. Females working part-time increased 29,000 people, whilst males rose 6,000 people in November. ‘With the fall in the number of employed and unemployed people in November, the participation rate fell by 0.2 percentage points to 66.7 per cent,’ Mr Crick said.‘The number of employed people has risen 1.3 per cent over the past 12 months, which is weaker than the 2.0 per cent growth in population.’ The employment-to-population ratio fell by 0.2 percentage points to 63.8 per cent this month.Hours worked remained flat this month, and increased 1.2 per cent compared to November 2024. Underemployment and underutilisation both rose 0.4 percentage pointsThe underemployment rate rose by 0.4 percentage points to 6.2 per cent in November. This was 0.1 percentage points higher than November 2024, and 2.6 percentage points lower than March 2020.‘In original terms, the number of underemployed people who worked part-time, but would prefer more hours, rose 5.9 per cent over the last year. This was led by males which grew 17.0 per cent, whereas females recorded a small fall of 1.7 per cent,’ Mr Crick said. The underutilisation rate, which combines the unemployment and underemployment rates, rose by 0.4 percentage points to 10.5 per cent. This was 0.5 percentage points higher than November 2024, and 3.4 percentage points lower than March 2020. Trend unemployment rate dropped to 4.3 per cent in November‘The trend unemployment rate fell marginally to 4.3 per cent in November after staying at 4.4 per cent for the last two months,’ Mr Crick said.‘Trend employment grew by around 21,000 people, or 0.1 per cent, in November, and 1.3 per cent in the last 12 months. This is despite a fall in seasonally adjusted terms this month.‘Monthly hours worked rose 0.1 per cent, in line with the 0.1 per cent increase in employment.‘Annual growth in hours worked in November was at 1.1 per cent, which is slightly lower than the 1.3 per cent rise in employment in the last 12 months.’In trend terms, the participation rate stayed at 66.8 per cent in November, while the employment-to-population ratio stayed at 63.9 per cent.The underemployment rate remained at 5.9 per cent, and the underutilisation rate was steady at 10.3 per cent.

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

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

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

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

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

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