Month: April 2022

Stand-alone Regional Cancer Care Centre at Taree to deliver comprehensive treatment and outreach services

Plans for the new Manning-Great Lakes Cancer Care Centre have been significantly bolstered with the centre to be built as a stand-alone facility, delivering comprehensive cancer care services including outreach services for the region. 

With Federal funding of $4.47-million, the centre will be built close to Manning Base Hospital in the centre of Taree and will complement and substantially expand the hospital’s existing oncology services.

On Thursday, Minister for Regional Health and Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie joined operators Cancer Care Partners to announce the upgraded plans, with the facility expected to be in operational in the first half of 2023.

“This is an incredibly exciting development for cancer care in our region,” Dr Gillespie said.

“The new stand-alone centre will be comprehensive in its service delivery – providing radiation oncology through a high-tech linear accelerator, on-site medical oncology services including chemotherapy and immunotherapy, a dedicated oncology pharmacy, as well as regular outreach services for new and post-treatment patients in the Foster-Great Lakes area.

“This is an exponential upgrade on the original plans we had supported, with far-reaching benefits for our community. The integrated centre will significantly increase access to radiation therapies close to home, reducing the need for family and friends to travel extensively, minimising the impact on health, time, and expense.

“Importantly, the service will be a bulk-billing service for radiation therapy treatment, meaning that patients will not have a financial burden associated with accessing world-class treatment and utilising state-of-the-art equipment.

“I’m delighted to be here today making this announcement with Cancer Care Partners and look forward to delivering this vital medical infrastructure for our community.”

Cancer Care Partners’ Chairman Dr Tony Noun said the stand-alone centre was based on a regional model first established in the Riverina back in 2002.

“Cancer Care Partners’ facilities will be delivering comprehensive regional cancer care centres in both Taree and Griffith, NSW over the next two years. Our service model is customised to regional cancer patients and we have the experience of working with regional communities dating back to 2002 in the Riverina,” Dr Noun said.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to establish comprehensive cancer care assessment, treatment, follow-up and outreach services for the community of the Manning-Great Lakes.

“We’re close to reaching agreement on a site for the cancer care centre, which will be close to the Manning Base Hospital, and we will be updating the community about this, in coming weeks.”

Federal Coalition Government funding for the Manning-Great Lakes Cancer Care Centre is part of the $63.4 million 2019-20 Budget ‘Fighting Cancer’ initiative, to expand cancer treatment capacity across regional Australia.

Removing the William Street Level Crossing

An Albanese Labor Government will deliver a faster and safer commute for residents in Perth’s south-east by removing the William Street level crossing and building a new elevated Beckenham Station. 
 
Currently, the boom gates at the William Street level crossing close 266 times a day. This means that they can be down for 3 hours and 43 minutes per day.   
 
This doesn’t just slow commuters down, it also poses a serious safety risk to drivers forced to rapidly slow down from high speeds. 
 
Perth’s south-east is growing quickly, and with more traffic on the roads these problems are only going to get worse. 
 
By partnering with the McGowan Labor Government to jointly fund this $175 million project, an Albanese Labor Government will make this level crossing a thing of the past by raising the rail line over the road and constructing a brand new station. 
 
Federal Labor’s injection of funds will allow the McGowan Labor Government to go ahead with adding this level crossing removal to the five others already announced that will be removed along the Armadale Train Line, meaning even more commuters across Perth can get home more quickly and safely.  
 

Anthony Albanese, Leader of the Australian Labor Party said:  

“We’ll partner with the McGowan Labor Government to deliver this important project for Perth’s south east. 
 
“Only Labor will stand up for a better future for families in Perth’s south east.” 
 

Catherine King, Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development said:  

“This level crossing isn’t just frustrating for locals, it is unsafe. 
 
“By partnering with the WA Government, we will make the William Street the sixth level crossing to be taken out along this rail line, allowing even more Perth residents to get home more quickly and safely. 

Revitalising Iconic Glenelg

An Albanese Labor Government will help revitalise Glenelg, giving new life to one of Adelaide’s most iconic destinations.

Known Australia-wide for its beach, heritage, shops and entertainment, Glenelg is both a major attraction for visitors to Adelaide and a vibrant place for local families.

Receiving over one million visitors each year and with over 330 businesses stretching along Jetty Road, the region already makes a significant contribution to the South Australian economy.

The truth is though, that Glenelg could be even better. That is why an Albanese Labor Government will contribute $10 million to the City of Holdfast Bay’s Jetty Road masterplan. 

Earlier stages of this project have already delivered a brand-new public space in Chapel Plaza, with the next stage to upgrade Jetty Road from the Corner of Colley Terrace to Partridge Street.

Works will include increasing outdoor dining, better prioritisation of pedestrian use and a range of streetscape upgrades.

This project will deliver a better future for Glenelg locals and businesses alike – leading to more local jobs and making Glenelg an even better place to live.

Local businesses will be consulted closely throughout planning and construction.

$835 Million John Hunter Precinct On Track

The expansion of John Hunter and John Hunter Children’s Hospitals will begin next month, with the early works contractor appointed for the new state-of-the-art facility. 

Health Minister Brad Hazzard and Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor announced Multiplex Constructions is the enabling works contractor for the NSW Government’s $835 million investment in the John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct project.

“This is a significant milestone for what will be a huge expansion of health services that will transform health care for the Hunter region,” Mr Hazzard said.

“The Precinct will also support research and innovation, driving collaborations between the health, education and research sectors, to improve patient outcomes.

“The new, seven-storey Acute Services Building will see a 60 per cent increase in Intensive Care Unit capacity and almost 50 per cent more theatres and the new Emergency Department will see treatment spaces for patients increase by almost 40 per cent.”

Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said John Hunter Hospital is already one of the busiest hospitals in the State and the region’s population is set to increase by 22 per cent over the next 15 years.

“This expansion and enhancement of health services will ensure Newcastle, greater Hunter and northern NSW communities have access to cutting-edge health care now and into the future,” Mrs Taylor said.

“The project will deliver a new birthing suite and inpatient maternity unit, as well as a new neonatal intensive care unit and special care nursery.”

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Taylor Martin said the John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct redevelopment will provide work for local builders, sub-contractors and tradespeople throughout construction.

“This significant infrastructure project will create jobs for the community and deliver a big boost to the local economy with 70 per cent of the work being delivered by Hunter New England businesses,” Mr Martin said.

“Multiplex will be holding information sessions for interested businesses in the coming months and we’re encouraging people to find out how they can be involved.”  

The John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct will include:

  • A new Emergency Department and expanded critical care services (adult and paediatric)
  • Operating theatres, interventional and procedure spaces
  • A new birthing suite and inpatient maternity unit
  • A new neonatal intensive care unit and special care nursery
  • A rooftop helipad and increased car parking with more than 900 spaces for staff and visitors

Enabling works will begin in April with main works expected to begin later in the year. The project is scheduled for completion in 2026. 

The project is part of the NSW Government’s record $10.8 billion investment in health infrastructure to 2024-25, with nearly a third of the capital allocation in this financial year going towards regional and rural health facilities.

To find out more about the redevelopment visit www.johnhunter.health.nsw.gov.au

Construction starts on the jewel of Western Sydney

Western Sydney will soon enjoy a greatly enhanced riverside walk and nature reserve thanks to work starting on a $13 million waterfront investment at Tench Reserve as part of the NSW Government’s $50 million Parks for People Program.
 
Tench Reserve in Jamisontown will see the creation of a new amphitheatre, inclusive playspace and improvements to the 7km River Walk stretching along the Nepean River, and is the first of eight new and upgraded parks to begin construction.
 
Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts said the works would support a growing community in Western Sydney and deliver improvements to more than 11 hectares of regional open space close to homes.
 
“This is a milestone for the Parks for People Program as the first  to get underway, inspired by one of Penrith’s most beautiful natural assets, the Nepean River,” Mr Roberts said.
 
“Along with the upgraded wharf precinct and improved amenities, the park will feature an inclusive playspace, better access to the water, landscaping and 80 new trees.”
 
Mr Roberts said Parks for People would create hundreds of new jobs from its $50 million investment in new open spaces, including in Camden, Campbelltown, Fairfield, Parramatta, Penrith, Northern Beaches and The Hills.
 
Minister for Western Sydney and Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres said six of the eight parks in the program were in Sydney’s West and would support the Government’s priority of increasing the proportion of homes in urban areas within ten minutes’ walk of quality green, open and public space.
 
“We’re working in partnership with councils to set a new standard for high-quality public open space, with easily accessible places to relax, exercise, and connect with families and friends in the beauty of well-designed green spaces,” Mr Ayres said.
 
“The upgrades build a stronger connection between the park and the river and will support our vision of making the Nepean River precinct an exceptional destination for nature and recreation. Our investment in the river precinct has made it the beating hear of Penrith”
 
Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said the Nepean River was the region’s greatest natural asset and a much-loved recreational destination for residents and visitors alike.
 
“Penrith City Council welcomes the upgrade of Tench Reserve through the Parks for People Program. The upgrade aligns with our vision of enhancing the natural environment and supporting active and healthy lifestyles through connections with the river,” Cr Hitchen said.
 
Tench Reserve is due to be completed in December 2022 with the other parks to get underway throughout the year.
 
For more information please visit dpie.nsw.gov.au/tench

Major milestone on road to WestConnex opening

In a major milestone, the new road surface has been laid on the WestConnex M4-M5 Link Tunnels paving the way for the completion of the 7.5km motorway.

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said the missing link between Haberfield and St Peters, will slash travel times and provide more reliable journey times for motorists.

“With the road paving, excavation and tunnel breakthroughs complete, the last of the roadheaders have packed up and left the M4-M5 Link Tunnels site, allowing us to move into the final stages of construction before we open to traffic,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Once complete, WestConnex will reduce travel times by up to 40 minutes between Parramatta and Sydney Airport by bypassing up to 52 sets of traffic lights.”

“This critical project will help transform Sydney’s road network helping more people get to where they need faster and take the pressure off our local roads with the new link having capacity for up to 100,000 vehicles a day.”

Federal Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said the completion of the ‘missing link’ in the WestConnex will significantly reduce traffic and heavy vehicles on congested local streets like Parramatta Road.

“WestConnex is one of the most significant road infrastructure projects in the country, and it’s already having an impact on the lives of Sydneysiders by improving connections across the city,” Minister Fletcher said.

“More than 10,000 workers have been involved in the M4-M5 Link Tunnels so far, with around 40 per cent of them from Western Sydney.

“Today marks another significant milestone in the delivery of this project with the road paving having now been completed meaning for the first time, we are able to drive from one end of M4-M5 Link Tunnels to the other.

“The Morrison Government continues to work closely with the NSW Government to deliver city shaping infrastructure projects like WestConnex – the last stage of which will be completed next year.

“What this will mean for the people of Sydney is less time spent in traffic and more time with loved ones, and the ability to move around the city more easily for work, which has a positive economic and productivity impact.”

Minister for Metropolitan Roads Natalie Ward said the NSW Government is committed to transforming the way we move around Sydney.

“Our motorways play a vital role in getting commuters where they need to be, with a quicker and more reliable journey,” Mrs Ward said.

“The M4-M5 Link Tunnels form a critical aspect of our transport planning, taking the pressure off local roads and helping commuters spend less time behind the wheel and more time with their loved ones.

“Now we are entering the next exciting stage, fitting out the tunnels and getting them ready for drivers, who will be able to experience the full benefits of WestConnex when the project is completed next year.”

The countdown is now on to delivering the final piece of the 33km world-class motorway, with work also continuing on the Rozelle Interchange.

Transurban Group Executive for WestConnex, Andrew Head, said the first stages of WestConnex are already reducing travel times and improving safety and liveability.

“With 40 per cent of Sydney expected to live within five kilometres of WestConnex within the next decade, this project will transform the way we move as part of a mobility revolution across our city,” Mr Head said.

“We have already seen air quality improve by 10 to 15 per cent in parts of the inner west since the opening of the M4 tunnels, while travel times have reduced by up to an hour and safety has improved by up to 40 per cent.”

The M4-M5 Link Tunnels remain on track to open in 2023.

WestConnex also includes new parks, open spaces, urban artworks and 23 kilometres of new and improved pedestrian and bike paths.

For details on the WestConnex M4-M5 Link Tunnels, see https://www.westconnex.com.au/roads-projects/m4-m5-link-tunnels/.

S&P global highlights strong NSW economy

The State’s strong economy and excellent financial management have been highlighted in a report from international credit ratings agency S&P Global.
 
S&P’s first biannual update of NSW underscores the strength of the State’s recovery and economic fundamentals, including a record low unemployment rate despite the COVID-19 Omicron outbreak.
 
Treasurer Matt Kean said the report shows the NSW Government is successfully steering the State through COVID-19 and is helping the economy bounce back from the biggest downturn since the Great Depression.
 
“NSW is the only state in Australia with a triple-A rating and currently holds a double-A plus credit rating with S&P Global,” Mr  Kean said.
 
“S&P Global’s report highlights our State’s diversified economy, excellent financial management, exceptional liquidity and our record low unemployment rate.”
 
S&P Global downgraded NSW’s credit rating from triple-A to double-A plus in December 2020 due to the impact of the pandemic, with the Government supporting businesses and households with significant COVID-19 relief programs and health spending.
 
In February this year, NSW posted both its lowest unemployment rate since monthly records began 44 years ago, and the lowest unemployment rate among the states, falling to 3.7 per cent.
 
S&P Global’s report states the NSW economy is “maintaining momentum despite omicron bumps” and that “excellent financial management continues to support the ratings on NSW”.
 
“We expect a reasonably quick return to cash operating surpluses, supporting our stable outlook on the State.”
 

JOINT MEDIA STATEMENT – AUKUS LEADERS’ LEVEL STATEMENT

Today, the leaders of the Australia-UK-US (AUKUS) partnership – Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia, Prime Minister Boris Johnson of the United Kingdom, and President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. of the United States – assessed progress under AUKUS.

We reaffirmed our commitment to AUKUS and to a free and open Indo-Pacific. In light of Russia’s unprovoked, unjustified, and unlawful invasion of Ukraine, we reiterated our unwavering commitment to an international system that respects human rights, the rule of law, and the peaceful resolution of disputes free from coercion.

We are pleased with the progress in our trilateral program for Australia to establish a conventionally armed, nuclear‑powered submarine capability. We are fully committed to establishing a robust approach to sharing naval propulsion technology with Australia that strengthens the global non-proliferation regime.

We also committed today to commence new trilateral cooperation on hypersonics and counter-hypersonics, and electronic warfare capabilities, as well as to expand information sharing and to deepen cooperation on defense innovation. These initiatives will add to our existing efforts to deepen cooperation on cyber capabilities, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and additional undersea capabilities. As our work progresses on these and other critical defense and security capabilities, we will seek opportunities to engage allies and close partners.

MORE ASSISTANCE FOR QUEENSLAND FLOOD VICTIMS

Further disaster assistance will be extended to flood-affected communities in Queensland, with an additional package of support worth $771 million to be co-funded by the Commonwealth and Queensland Governments.

This additional funding means the Federal Government is providing over $1.3 billion and the Queensland Government is providing around $700 million to support Queenslanders affected by this recent flood event.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said although primary responsibility for this proposal was to be delivered by the Queensland Government, the Federal Government was stepping up to support Queenslanders.

“Queenslanders just want these issues to be addressed and for funding to continue to support residents and businesses in need,” the Prime Minister said.

“I know many people are still doing it tough and I want to ensure the only focus of my Government is to support their needs.

“To date, the Federal Government has committed over $1.3 billion in flood relief support to Queensland residents and businesses affected by this most recent flood.

“This includes paying out more than $383 million to the bank accounts of over 451,000 Queensland flood victims. These payments are 100 per cent funded by the Federal Government without support from the Queensland Government.

“As part of our agreement, I look forward to the Queensland Government providing regular public transparent reporting on how they are getting money into the pockets of Queenslanders in need.”

Minister for Emergency Management and National Recovery and Resilience Bridget McKenzie said this next package of assistance was funded under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

“Australians want their leaders to be getting on with the job and supporting people who need it. They don’t want us playing politics with disaster victims. What people need is the hope and confidence to carry on with their recovery,” Minister McKenzie said.

“That’s why the Commonwealth has agreed to a package of support for Queensland which focuses on resilience and mitigation.”

The new package of support for Queensland includes:

  • $275 million Resilient Household Rebuild Program
  • $350 million Voluntary Buy-Back Program
  • $6 million industry and community education program
  • $100 million Resilient Household Raising Program
  • $10 million property level flood information project; and
  • $30 million for extensive clean-up.

This assistance will be provided for the 23 Local Government Areas affected by the recent floods and severe weather.

“The significant devastation wreaked by these floods across Queensland is something this government is determined to mitigate against, now and in the future,” Minister McKenzie said.

“I have seen the impact on Queenslanders first hand, I have walked the streets with survivors and I know this next wave of support will enable residents in flood ravaged communities to build back better and become more resilient to future disasters.”

Queensland’s Acting Premier Cameron Dick also welcomed the announcement.

“We are pleased to work with the Commonwealth Government to deliver this nation-leading program to help Queenslanders build back better,” Acting Premier Dick said.

“The program will mean many Queenslanders who have suffered multiple flood events can now have peace of mind.”

This announcement is in addition to the $558 million package agreed by the Commonwealth and Queensland Governments on 5 March to support primary producers, small business and local councils and sporting clubs.

For more information visit recovery.gov.au.

AUSTRALIAN YOUTH TO BENEFIT FROM ENHANCED ADF CADETS PROGRAM

The Morrison Government is investing more than $1 billion to upgrade 73 Australian Defence Force (ADF) Reserve and Cadet facilities across Australia over the next 10 years.

The investment includes $53 million in infrastructure upgrades to 18 cadet facilities, including in rural and remote communities over the next year.

The Minister for Defence the Hon. Peter Dutton MP said the infrastructure investment will support the growth of the ADF Cadets by 10 percent over the next year, and is just one component of a number of initiatives being implemented to enhance the cadet program.

“We want to provide improved opportunities for cadets through a number of avenues, including better facilities, enhanced experiences, mentoring and relevant skilling,” Minister Dutton said.

As part of this significant enhancement of the cadets program, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK CVO MC (Retd) will become the first Patron of the ADF Cadets.

“Being a former cadet himself, Sir Peter will bring strong values, experience and mentorship to current and future cadets,” Minister Dutton said.

Defence will increase numbers in existing cadet units and create new units to complement broader Government initiatives supporting youth development and skilling.

“In addition to the more traditional skills developed through the program, future cadets will also be engaged in STEM-focused activities including cyber security, virtual reality simulation, robotics and flight simulation,” Minister Dutton said.

“The program will focus on growing cadet and volunteer numbers, and establishing new units in rural and remote areas, including in Indigenous communities.

“To ensure enduring local unit success, additional personnel including veterans and reservists will be employed to provide administrative support.

“The investment in facility upgrades will also provide opportunities for Australian industry including local and Indigenous suppliers and contractors.”

Assistant Minister for Defence Andrew Hastie MP said the investment would also see upgrades to Defence-owned and leased premises across all states and territories.

Some sites have been prioritised for works and earmarked by Defence for cadet growth as they are in geographic locations where youth development programs could have a positive impact on the community.

“The sites prioritised under this investment are integral to the ADF emergency response network, and ensuring facilities are fit-for-purpose to develop our nation’s youth,” Assistant Minister Hastie said.

“As a former cadet myself, I know first-hand that cadets provide young Australians with opportunities to lead, grow and serve our country. It is a vital part of Defence’s contribution to building Australia’s future leaders.”

“These important announcements will help strengthen the future of cadets, and ensures that we grow the cadet program in the critical years ahead.”

To find out more about volunteering with the ADF Cadets: https://www.defenceyouth.gov.au/youth-programs/adf-cadets/