Category: NSW News

The NSW Police Force have welcomed five new crime-fighting canines at
 
 
 
 
 
 
the Dog Unit, whose names will be chosen by chronically ill children.
The five German Shepherd pups – three females and two males – were born on Christmas Eve last year (Monday 24 December 2018) and will be trained as General Purpose dogs.
Dog Unit Commander, Superintendent Steve Egginton, said the puppies are a welcome addition to the NSW Police Force.
“Since 2004, our breeding program has seen 34 litters of German Shepherd pups join the ranks of the Dog Unit, and these five new recruits have just started their journey in the pack,” Supt Egginton said.
“Keeping with canine recruit tradition, these puppies will be given names starting with the letter ‘Z’ and will form part of the ‘Z’ litter.
“We are encouraging everyone to help suggest names for the dogs before they start sniffing out crime,” Supt Egginton said added.
Patron of the NSW Police Dog Unit, Mrs Andrea Fuller, said the naming process has proven to be an excellent way to engage with the community and allow members of the public to take part.
“This year, we are delighted to be working with Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick to give some of the children in their care a chance to help choose the names of our new crime-fighting canines,” Mrs Fuller said.
“A list of suggested names will be provided to the hospital, then the children will research the names and hold a vote, with the most popular names chosen.
“The pups will then be assigned a name and taken to the hospital, so the children have a chance to meet them,” Mrs Fuller said.
Director of Nursing at Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Ms Verity Luckey says the patients of Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick are thrilled to join forces with the NSW Police Force Dog Unit.
“The children are armed and ready to help to with the im-paw-tant job of naming the newest recruits, and also really looking forward to shaking paws with our new furry-friends when they are old enough to stop by for a visit,” Ms Luckey said.
Police Minister Troy Grant welcomed the puppy naming partnership with Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick.
“This is a great way for the children to engage with the Dog Unit, which does some of the most extraordinary behind-the-scenes work helping to solve crime in our community,” Mr Grant said.
“It’s also a fantastic opportunity for the unit to bring a little cheer to the kids at the Sydney Children’s Hospital at Randwick. This is an incredibly worthy initiative that we’re proud to be a part of, and I look forward to hearing the names suggested for our latest four-legged crime fighters,” he added.
The five pups will stay at the Dog Unit until they are about 12 weeks old and will then be placed into the foster carer program until they are old enough to begin training.
The NSW Police Force Dog Unit was formed in 1932 and currently forms part of the NSW Police Force Police Transport and Public Safety Command.
It is the largest police dog unit in Australia and its canine police officers include German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, Dutch Shepherds, Labradors, Border Collies and English Springer Spaniels.
The Dog Unit’s breeding program has been running since 2004, and has bred 34 litters of German Shepherd pups, two litters of Labrador pups and two litters of English Springer Spaniels and one litter of Belgian Malinois.

NSW will remain the economic powerhouse of Australia with NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian today announcing the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government will create 250,000 new jobs in the next four years.
With NSW boasting the lowest unemployment rate on record of just 3.9 percent, Western Sydney and regional NSW will be a key focus of the new jobs target. Two vocational high schools and two additional Productivity Bootcamps will be established to help young people build skills and kick-start careers.
“We have created more than 600,000 jobs since 2011 – more than any other state – and smashed our last four year jobs target of 150,000 by adding more than 420,000 new jobs,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“We are prioritising young people trying to get in to a trade with the bootcamp program and at the same time giving those whose ambition is to learn a trade the opportunity to do so through new vocational high schools.”
The vocational high schools will be located in Western Sydney and on the North Coast. Up to $17 million is earmarked for each site to fund construction of specialist training facilities at two existing schools.
The two schools will train students in skills in demand by local employers and industry requirements and allow them to study a trade while completing the HSC. Courses may include construction, electro-technology, hospitality, metal and engineering and primary industries.
The successful Productivity Bootcamp program will also expand to two more locations in Western Sydney and the South Coast.
Already operating at Quakers Hill and Penrith, the program provides fully-subsidised skills training to help young people secure a career in the construction industry.
Over an intensive eight-week program Productivity Bootcamp participants work on-site of a major NSW infrastructure project. Essentials life skills such as effective communications, work ethic and time management are also honed at TAFE NSW.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Skills John Barilaro said, that as a former tradie, he knew first-hand many of the pressures faced by students considering a trade.
“We are doing more to support our young people to assure them that a trade is both a credible and rewarding career option,” Mr Barilaro said.
“The concept is truly exciting because it brings together the best of traditional learning associated with the HSC and the hands-on skills that will allow our tradies of tomorrow to kick-start their careers.”
Ms Berejiklian said the key to creating 250,000 more jobs was an ironclad guarantee by the Liberals & Nationals to complete all employment-generating infrastructure projects such the F6 extension, Western Harbour Tunnel, Metro West, Metro South West and WestConnex.
“Our record infrastructure pipeline has been the key driver for this jobs growth and we simply cannot afford to take our foot off the pedal,” Ms Berejiklian said.
Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said only the sound economic management of the Liberals & Nationals would ensure NSW continues to prosper and grow.
“We have managed to get NSW back on track after Labor consistently delivered an unemployment rate higher than the national average,” Mr Perrottet said.
“Now Labor’s failed former Finance Minister Michael Daley is threatening to cancel this Government’s vital job creation infrastructure projects.
“One of the few costed policies they have released is their promise to abandon our payroll tax cuts. The consequence of that are higher cost to small business and fewer jobs as a result. Labor doesn’t have a plan for NSW – only a hit list.”

The NSW Police Force is encouraging everyone heading into the city to celebrate the 2019 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade this weekend to plan ahead and enjoy the festivities safely.
Thousands of spectators are expected to line Oxford and Flinders Streets and Anzac Parade on Saturday (2 March 2019), as colourful floats make their way through Darlinghurst to mark the 41st anniversary of Mardi Gras.
Operation Commander, Assistant Commissioner Tony Crandell, said police will have a significant presence across the city to ensure the evening’s events are safe, fun and family-friendly.
“We are expecting big crowds to attend this year’s parade and to make sure everyone has a great night, we have been working closely with Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras staff to ensure safety is the top priority,” Assistant Commissioner Crandell said.
“Police are not here to ruin anyone’s fun and anyone acting inappropriately will be dealt with swiftly and face the full force of the law.
“Officers will be keeping an eye out for anyone taking or distributing illicit drugs, and those engaged in alcohol-related crime or anti-social behaviour.
“If you are planning to head into the city, please think before you drink. Anyone under the age of 18 should be aware that there are consequences of drinking underage.
“Police will be focused on maintaining a safe and fun atmosphere for the parade; however, we will not tolerate anyone who risks their safety or the safety of others with foolish behaviour,” Assistant Commissioner Crandell said.
The entire event footprint is an alcohol-free zone, which effectively prohibits the consumption of alcohol in any public place.
“Police have the power to confiscate and dispose of alcohol that is being, has been, or is likely to be consumed in an alcohol-free zone,” Assistant Commissioner Crandell said.
“It’s also an offence to consume alcohol on Sydney Trains property and we will have officers from the Police Transport Command patrolling trains, stations and transport hubs throughout the event.”
Assistant Commissioner Crandell said viewing areas fill up quickly, so to avoid disappointment people should plan to arrive early and use public transport.
“There will be road closures in place to facilitate the parade, so your best bet is to leave the car at home and utilise additional train and bus services operating throughout the event,” Assistant Commissioner Crandell said.
For comprehensive event details about the parade and after party, visit: http://www.mardigras.org.au.
Use the ‘Trip Planner’ via www.transportnsw.info/ to plan your journey to the parade, with all the latest timetable and ticketing information for trains, buses, ferries and taxi ranks available.
Further information on alcohol-free zones in Sydney can be found on the City of Sydney website: www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au.
For road-closure information, visit www.livetraffic.com.

The McGrath Foundation will be able to expand its outstanding work supporting people with breast cancer, thanks to a $3.7 million boost from the NSW Government.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the package would take the total number of McGrath Breast Care Nurses across the state to 48.
The six NSW Government-funded nurses will be based in locations including Liverpool, Nepean/Blue Mountains and Northern Sydney.
McGrath Breast Care Nurses are specially trained to care for people diagnosed with breast cancer – providing vital support to patients and their families during what is a difficult time.
“The NSW Government has been a longtime supporter of the McGrath Foundation and we are proud to do even more over the next four years,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“Breast cancer has touched almost every family at some point in time – it is estimated there are around 70,000 people across NSW currently living with this disease with around another 15 being diagnosed each day.
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the extra nurses will be invaluable in the health system.
“McGrath Nurses are there to help and we are so lucky to have them.  From diagnosis to every stage of treatment, they will be with you in person or on the phone showing skill and compassion,” Mr Hazzard said.
The foundation, which was co-founded by cricket legend Glenn McGrath and his late wife Jane following her public experience with breast cancer, has supported thousands of people and their families experiencing breast cancer.
The announcement was welcomed by Mr McGrath, who said it would help support the McGrath Foundation’s goal to ensure everyone who needs a breast care nurse has one for free.
“Thanks to the generous support of the NSW Government, we’ll be able to continue placing McGrath Breast Care Nurses in the communities that need them the most,” Mr McGrath said.
“Whilst the majority of our nurses are in rural and regional parts of Australia, metropolitan areas with high population growth in the Greater Sydney area have the greatest need for breast care nurses due to projected breast cancer incidence.”

New South Wales has smashed the jobs record with the lowest unemployment rate on record cementing its position as Australia’s job creation capital, according to the latest jobs data from the ABS.
The State’s unemployment rate fell a further 0.4 per cent to 3.9 per cent for January 2019, the lowest since monthly records began in February 1978, with a whopping 47,200 jobs added proving once again NSW is the Premier State.
NSW remains well below the national unemployment rate of 5 per cent and well ahead of Victoria at 4.5 per cent, Queensland 6 per cent and South Australia on 6.3 per cent.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Treasurer Dominic Perrottet today announced the record low unemployment figures, which means that since 2011 the NSW Liberals & Nationals have overseen the creation of 611,300 jobs.
“Today NSW entered the record books, which is proof our vision for NSW is making our State the best place to live and get a job,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“An unemployment rate of 3.9 per cent is a stunning result and this means more families and individuals are getting ahead.”
“Abundant jobs are bringing women into the workforce like never before – female participation surged to an all-time high of 60.6 per cent with women’s unemployment rate a record low of 3.7 per cent.”
“Today’s result isn’t by accident but the result of hard work to get our finances in order and deliver a strong budget and strong economy.”
Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said NSW also recorded a record participation rate of 65.2 per cent meaning we have the highest percentage of people active in the labour market and the lowest percentage of people currently unemployed.
“We are the jobs capital of the nation, the engine room of the economy – once again the Premier state,” Mr Perrottet said.
“Since the last election 420,500 jobs have been created smashing our target of 150,000 jobs.”
“It is a vindication of the economic and financial approach taken by this Liberals &
Nationals Government and highlights the importance of infrastructure projects to our
economy.”
The Government’s record infrastructure investment has generated more than half-amillion
jobs and helped boost the State’s economic growth by half a percentage point
in 2017- 18.
“We want to continue to provide the right conditions for jobs growth across the State,”Mr Perrottet said.
“We have put the State’s books in order through our financial discipline with surpluses forecast over the next four years.”
“This has allowed us to lower taxes, make record investments such as $89.7 billion on infrastructure without plunging the State into debt.”
The State’s youth unemployment rate is the lowest of any state and more than 2 percentage points below the rest of Australia.
Female workers drove the strong labour force result for the State, with 42,700 jobs added for the month and the female unemployment rate dropping to a record low of 3.7 per cent.

Thousands of families with loved ones with a life-limiting illness will receive more choice about the help they need from an additional 100 palliative care nurses at refurbished facilities under the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the $45 million palliative care investment was made possible by the strong economic management of the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government.
“We are doing everything we can to ensure patients and their loved ones have access to the best quality palliative care at the best possible care facilities,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“The NSW Liberals & Nationals Government is committed to ensuring people who are suffering a life-limiting illness, and their families, have the choices, support and care they need.”
The investment is on top of a $100 million package for palliative care that was announced as part the 2017-18 Budget, which is already delivering more palliative care nurses and community-based palliative care services.   The additional 100 palliative care nurses will work in hospitals, palliative care facilities, and in communities and homes to ensure patients can access the care they need, in the setting they choose.
Ms Berejiklian made the commitment at Mt Druitt Hospital, part of the Western Sydney Local Health District that will receive eight new palliative care nurses.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said 64 of the 100 palliative care nurses would be assigned to regional and rural NSW.
Mr Barilaro made the commitment at Coffs Harbour Hospital, part of the Mid North Coast Local Health District that will receive five new palliative care nurses.
“We are doing everything we can to ensure patients and their loved ones have access to the best quality palliative care in the best possible facilities no matter where they live,” Mr Barilaro said.
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the commitment also includes $10 million for improvements to existing palliative care facilities across the State.
“The emotional and financial challenges for patients and their carers are considerable so we will continue to do all we can to help people through this challenging time,” Mr Hazzard said.
The $45 million boost to palliative care funding will:

• Add 100 more nurses to the palliative care workforce, with 64 expected for regional and rural NSW;
• Increase the number of full-time equivalent palliative care Aboriginal health workers from nine to 18, so that every district and network in NSW has a full-time position;
• Increase use of digital health solutions to improve end of life care to people living in rural and remote areas throughout NSW;
• Connect young people in regional areas through digital health solutions to the new Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice in Manly, and funding a senior clinical role to support its staff; and
• Support the refurbishment of existing palliative care facilities across NSW, providing a home away from home for patients.

n a first for NSW, every public high school will have two dedicated experts to ensure students have access to vital mental health and wellbeing support.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian today announced that the $88 million investment will ensure every public high school student in the State has access to a highly-qualified mental health professional they can confidentially speak to, as well as greater support for bullying, anxiety, stress, and any other difficult issues they may face at school.
“This will make it easy for young people to access help when they’re going through a tough time and also give teachers the support to deal with challenges faced by students,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“We know from teachers and principals – and the students themselves – what an impact this has on reducing stress and improving academic performance, as well as how much the students embrace the extra support.”
Up to 100 additional full-time school counsellors or psychologists, as well as 350 student support officers, will be employed across NSW public high schools. Importantly, these experts will have the ability to refer students who require greater assistance to mental health services.
Education Minister Rob Stokes said the program will help normalise speaking up and seeking help when it comes to mental health, as well as train teachers to be able to have these conversations with students and their families.
“It is critical that parents, teachers and students know there is always someone they can turn to for support,” Mr Stokes said.
“We’ll also partner with mental health organisations to bring their expertise and experience to school communities.”
Mental Health Minister Tanya Davies said about 14 per cent of children between four and 17 years old experience a mental illness – and this figure is expected to rise.
“If issues are not addressed quickly and at a young age they can develop into lifelong problems,” Mrs Davies said.
“Getting help early can prevent young people from falling into crisis and also avoid longer term interventions as an adult. Schools play a critical role in getting this support to young people sooner.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro visited Griffith High School today to talk with students and teachers about how the boost will help in regional NSW.
“By offering mental health support in schools, we can identify kids who need help early, and make sure they’re looked after.
“With the ice epidemic and youth suicide major issues in regional NSW it is important that our kids have access to life-saving support services no matter where they live.”
Since elected, the NSW Government has increased funding for student wellbeing by more than $200 million, with an additional 236 school counselling positions funded over the past three years, bringing the total full-time counselling positions to 1081.

The NSW Liberals & Nationals Government will invest $864 million for major upgrades to St George ($385 million) and Ryde ($479 million) hospitals, to deliver world-class healthcare and provide additional beds for local communities.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said this significant investment in St George and Ryde hospitals was only possible because of the strong economic management of the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government.
“We have a strong track record when it comes to delivering health infrastructure, having already built or upgraded more than 100 hospitals and other health facilities across the State,” Ms Berejiklian said.
During a visit to St George Hospital in Kogarah, Ms Berejiklian also announced a $76 million elective surgery boost, focusing on children and cataract patients.
“No other NSW Government has ever invested as much in health and one of the benefits is the dramatic improvement in on-time paediatric specialist surgery times,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“We are not only building new and upgraded hospitals across the State, we are also ensuring people receive the best possible healthcare they need.”
Today’s announcement follows yesterday’s announcement of an unprecedented 5000 additional nurses and midwives to be recruited, along with more doctors and other health professionals, in a package to increase the health workforce by a total 8300 – a $2.8 billion investment.
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the redeveloped St George and Ryde hospitals would increase capacity for local communities, ensuring people get the care they need close to home.
“This Government is serious about investing in hospitals – in fact we are investing more than $8 billion over the next four years, with about 100 health infrastructure projects underway and more to come,” Mr Hazzard said.
Member for Oatley Mark Coure said the $385 million investment brings to $700 million the total investment in several upgrades to St George Hospital facilities since 2011.
“At St George, we are committing to a new precinct including an ambulatory care unit, outpatient and day surgery services, a new day rehabilitation unit, increased subacute inpatient beds and a hub for community health and home-based services to ensure the local community gets the very best in health care,” Mr Coure said.
Member for Ryde Victor Dominello said the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government has long supported better healthcare in Ryde, and that this new investment would completely transform Ryde Hospital.
“This $479 million investment will create a new Ryde Hospital. The historic Denistone House will be preserved and be surrounded  by modern and enhanced emergency, critical care, inpatient, community and ambulatory care services, as well as maternity services,” Mr Dominello said.
“Ryde Hospital has an emotional connection for most people in Ryde. Personally, I have a special affinity with Ryde Hospital as my sisters and I were all born here. This massive investment transforms a hospital we love into a modern facility that will continue to provide wonderful care for our community for generations to come.”
Planning for the redevelopment of the hospitals, which will involve consultation with local communities and hospital staff, with construction activities to commence during the next term of government.
The NSW Liberals & Nationals Government continues to triple Labor’s annual health infrastructure spending, having completed more than 100 new and upgraded hospitals and health facilities, including more than 63 in regional NSW, with another 100 projects underway.
The NSW Liberals & Nationals Government has hired more than 16,000 doctors, nurses and midwives, allied health and support staff to deliver world-class health services across NSW.
By contrast, the former Labor government closed more than 2000 hospital beds and promised four major hospitals but never delivered.

The NSW Liberals & Nationals Government will invest $864 million for major upgrades to St George ($385 million) and Ryde ($479 million) hospitals, to deliver world-class healthcare and provide additional beds for local communities.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said this significant investment in St George and Ryde hospitals was only possible because of the strong economic management of the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government.
“We have a strong track record when it comes to delivering health infrastructure, having already built or upgraded more than 100 hospitals and other health facilities across the State,” Ms Berejiklian said.
During a visit to St George Hospital in Kogarah, Ms Berejiklian also announced a $76 million elective surgery boost, focusing on children and cataract patients.
“No other NSW Government has ever invested as much in health and one of the benefits is the dramatic improvement in on-time paediatric specialist surgery times,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“We are not only building new and upgraded hospitals across the State, we are also ensuring people receive the best possible healthcare they need.”
Today’s announcement follows yesterday’s announcement of an unprecedented 5000 additional nurses and midwives to be recruited, along with more doctors and other health professionals, in a package to increase the health workforce by a total 8300 – a $2.8 billion investment.
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the redeveloped St George and Ryde hospitals would increase capacity for local communities, ensuring people get the care they need close to home.
“This Government is serious about investing in hospitals – in fact we are investing more than $8 billion over the next four years, with about 100 health infrastructure projects underway and more to come,” Mr Hazzard said.
Member for Oatley Mark Coure said the $385 million investment brings to $700 million the total investment in several upgrades to St George Hospital facilities since 2011.
“At St George, we are committing to a new precinct including an ambulatory care unit, outpatient and day surgery services, a new day rehabilitation unit, increased subacute inpatient beds and a hub for community health and home-based services to ensure the local community gets the very best in health care,” Mr Coure said.
Member for Ryde Victor Dominello said the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government has long supported better healthcare in Ryde, and that this new investment would completely transform Ryde Hospital.
“This $479 million investment will create a new Ryde Hospital. The historic Denistone House will be preserved and be surrounded  by modern and enhanced emergency, critical care, inpatient, community and ambulatory care services, as well as maternity services,” Mr Dominello said.
“Ryde Hospital has an emotional connection for most people in Ryde. Personally, I have a special affinity with Ryde Hospital as my sisters and I were all born here. This massive investment transforms a hospital we love into a modern facility that will continue to provide wonderful care for our community for generations to come.”
Planning for the redevelopment of the hospitals, which will involve consultation with local communities and hospital staff, with construction activities to commence during the next term of government.
The NSW Liberals & Nationals Government continues to triple Labor’s annual health infrastructure spending, having completed more than 100 new and upgraded hospitals and health facilities, including more than 63 in regional NSW, with another 100 projects underway.
The NSW Liberals & Nationals Government has hired more than 16,000 doctors, nurses and midwives, allied health and support staff to deliver world-class health services across NSW.
By contrast, the former Labor government closed more than 2000 hospital beds and promised four major hospitals but never delivered.

Waiting times will be dramatically reduced for children who need surgery under a NSW Liberals & Nationals Government, with a commitment to deliver 8000 additional paediatric operations.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the $45 million investment will strengthen the State’s on-time paediatric surgery performance, which sits at 97 per cent – its highest level ever.
“No other NSW Government has ever invested as much in health and one of the benefits is the dramatic improvement in on-time paediatric specialist surgery times,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“Our healthcare system is already world-class and this investment will do even more to help get children in and out of hospital quickly, easing the burden on parents and carers.”
The funding will employ an additional 10 doctors and 25 nurses in the public system to deliver on this commitment, as well as utilising spare capacity in private hospitals. In NSW, 97 per cent of paediatric specialist surgery is performed on time compared to 86 per cent under Labor.
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said NSW already has the best on-time elective surgery rates in Australia but this funding will ensure children needing minor operations are back at home with their families even faster.
“We want to remove any obstacles to a child’s social and learning development and get them back home as quick as we can. Surgeries to remove tonsils, grommets and adenoids which are usually classified as semi and non-urgent, can also help kids overcome educational and behavioural issues, so this initiative gets a gold star,” Mr Hazzard said.
The investment is expected to reduce the time taken to receive non-urgent elective surgeries by around three months, and halve the time taken to receive semi-urgent elective surgeries. Urgent elective surgeries are already delivered as soon as possible.
In 2018-19, the NSW Government is investing a record $25 billion in health, a $1.1 billion increase over the 2017-18 Budget.