Master plan released for new $300 million Rouse Hill Hospital

The growing Rouse Hill community is set to benefit from a range of new health services, with the release of the Master Plan for the $300 million Rouse Hill Hospital.
 
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the new hospital on the corner of Commercial Road and Windsor Road Rouse Hill will include emergency services, inpatient and outpatient services that will be designed to take advantage of digital innovations in healthcare.
 
“The Master Plan released today for the Rouse Hill Hospital ensures communities in north western Sydney will have access to the very best health care much closer to home,” Mr Hazzard said.
 
“The new hospital will be specifically designed and built to embrace advanced digital technology and innovative models of care to bring world-class care right into the home.”
 
These innovative models include:

  • One Health urgent and emergency care that means a co-located emergency department, urgent care centre and general practitioner services with access to pathology, pharmacy and medical imaging services
  • One Health short stay care medical assessment services (up to 48 hours) for patients requiring further investigation, stabilization and direction to an appropriate care pathway
  • InTouch Care which will provide digital healthcare connectivity across all settings including the hospital, the community and in the home
  • Prehabiliation, Rehabilitation and Lifestyle Medicine which delivers therapy, education and interventions that support management of chronic conditions  and improving health outcomes.

Member for Riverstone Kevin Conolly said the selected site and Master Plan for the new hospital campus ensured convenient and easy access to hospital services for the community.

“The Master Plan for the new hospital shows the building’s location on the hospital campus and how it relates to parking zones, public transport, access roads and other retail and community services. It also identifies future clinical expansion zones,” Mr Conolly said.

“The design will also emphasise comfort and wellbeing in order to benefit patient recovery, with courtyards providing access to pleasant views, sunlight and fresh air.”

Member for Castle Hill Ray Williams said the State Significant Development Application (SSDA) has also been lodged.

“The SSDA will allow enabling works to start onsite such as installing road access and in-ground services including water, electricity and gas,” Mr Williams said.

“I look forward to seeing early works commence in early 2023 following the review and finalisation of the clinical services plan and planning approval.”

The new hospital will include:

  • inTouchCare
  • Urgent  and Emergency Care
  • Day Surgery Unit
  • Adult & Paediatric Short Stay
  • Ambulatory & Outpatient Care which includes Women’s Health, Ante/Post Natal Care, Cancer Care, Renal Dialysis, Mental Health, Infusion Centre and Paediatrics
  • Prehabilitation, Rehabilitation & Lifestyle Medicine Service
  • Multi-storey car park

 
The new Rouse Hill Hospital will complement Blacktown and Mt Druitt Hospitals and Westmead Hospital to ensure comprehensive health care throughout the north west.  Western Sydney has benefited from the recent $700 million Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals Expansion Project which included a new emergency department, women’s and newborn health services, intensive care unit, operating theatres, and psychiatric emergency care service.
 
Western Sydney Local Health District will work in partnership with Health Infrastructure on the next phases of the project with the aim of commencing construction on the project in early 2023.
 
The NSW Government is investing a record $11.9 billion in health infrastructure over the four years to 2025-26. Since 2011, the NSW Government has delivered more than 180 health capital projects across NSW, with more than 130 projects currently underway.

Princes Highway upgrades driving ahead

Liberal Candidate for South Coast, Luke Sikora, welcomed the announcement of a major Hawken Road intersection, which will feature a grade-separated overpass, as part of the $500 million joint-funded Jervis Bay to Sussex Inlet Road Princes Highway upgrade.
 
Mr Sikora said the overpass will allow traffic access to the highway in both directions and improve connectivity to the surrounding local villages, as well as the safety of people using this road.
 
“I was originally inspired to get involved in politics when two of my school friends died in a car crash – and making these roads safer is one of the most important things I can do for our community.”
 
Member for South Coast, Shelley Hancock, said the Perrottet Government has been getting on with the job of delivering important infrastructure upgrades, but it requires a strong local advocate to ensure that the local focus can be maintained.
 
“Since 2011, our Government has committed $5.15 billion to deliver upgrades to the Princes Highway to ensure the road is safer for motorists, to improve traffic and freight efficiency, and importantly to improve connectivity to our coastal towns and villages.
 
“As part of the $500 million upgrade between Jervis Bay Road and Sussex Inlet Road Princes Highway upgrade, a new intersection will be delivered at Hawken Road, Tomerong featuring an overpass, improving safety and allowing east-west movements between Hawken Road and Blackbutt Range Road.
 
“Along with the duplication of the six-kilometre stretch of the Princes Highway between Jervis Bay Road and Hawken Road, this new intersection will provide safer journeys and better support local traffic, tourism, and freight movements,” Mrs Hancock said.
 
“The upgraded section of highway will also connect with the new Jervis Bay Road intersection, which is on track for early work to start later this year.”
 
Luke Sikora said it is essential that the community continues to be informed and consulted.
 
“I encourage our community to get involved in this project, and have a say as design progresses on the Hawken Road intersection, including work to identify the preferred corridor and access points for local roads and private properties,” said Mr Sikora. “I am pleased Transport for NSW will be meeting with residents at Tomerong next month to ensure they are consulted every step of the way.”
 
“If elected, I commit to the delivery a safer Princes Highway along the entirety of the south coast, ensuring safer trips for local residents and motorists,” Mr Sikora said.

Funding for the Macquarie Oval

One of Ryde’s premier sporting facilities, the University Oval at Macquarie Park, is getting a five million dollar funding boost.

Liberal Candidate for Ryde, Jordan Lane, said the Perrottet Government’s multi-sport community facility fund is helping local communities get amenities that help make sport more accessible and enjoyable.

“The Ryde community absolutely loves sport – whether playing or supporting – and our aspiring world cup champions and Brownlow winners will benefit greatly from this investment in our local facilities,” Mr Lane said.

“Sports keep people healthy, active and socially connected, and this funding will make the University Oval one of the best places for footy in Sydney. This funding will modernise University Oval, upgrading the playing surface, change rooms, lighting, community areas and match day amenities.”

Member for Ryde, Victor Dominello, said the project will receive $5 million from the NSW Government’s Multi-Sport Community Facility Fund, to upgrade amenities and enable the ground to host elite women’s AFL matches.

“Sport is part of the fabric of our community and the NSW Government has a strong track record of investing in community sporting infrastructure to deliver modern, accessible facilities,” Mr Dominello said.

“The upgrade will be a huge coup for local footballers and also enable University Oval to host AFLW night games.”

The Multi-Sport Community Facility Fund provides grants between $1 million and $5 million for new or upgraded sport facilities.

Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said the program prioritises projects that provide inclusive and accessible facilities that enable more people to play sport.

“These projects will not only provide more opportunities for people to play sport, but they will also generate a local sports facility infrastructure boom, creating jobs and delivering an economic boost for the community,” Mr Henskens said.

“This multi-million Government investment is delivering game-changing projects that promote participation and secure a brighter future for local communities across NSW.

WINNERS ANNOUNCED FOR 2022 PRIME MINISTER’S NATIONAL VETERANS’ EMPLOYMENT AWARDS

Australia’s top veteran and partner employers, employees and entrepreneurs were celebrated last night at the 2022 Prime Minister’s National Veterans’ Employment Awards in Canberra.

These Awards showcase the talent on offer in the veteran community – as employees and entrepreneurs, and also recognise the organisations that actively recruit, employ and support veterans and families.

The Awards highlight the importance this Government places upon supporting veterans to ensure a successful transition out of the military and into civilian life.

Key to this is veterans being able to find a meaningful job soon after they leave service.

The Federal Budget allocated $24 million to the Veteran Employment Program, to support defence personnel in their transition to civilian life and employment, while ensuring the skills and experience veterans and their families bring to the workforce is acknowledged by the community.

Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese said:

“I congratulate all those recognised in our National Veterans’ Employment Awards for their commitment to the Defence and veteran community.”

“Australians owe a debt of gratitude to those veterans who have served the nation, and to their families who supported them throughout their service.”

“Initiatives such as the Veteran Employment Program and the National Veterans’ Employment Awards go a long way towards helping employers and the Australian community understand the benefits of employing veterans and their families.”

“The careers of Defence family members are often impacted in support of their serving partners, particularly when moving regularly.”

“I am pleased to see the valuable contribution of defence families recognised as part of this year’s Awards.”

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Matt Keogh said:

“Our Veteran Employment Program will build on existing initiatives to raise awareness, highlight the benefits of employing veterans and veteran families, provide support to businesses to attract, recruit and retain veterans, and provide support to translate veterans’ military skills and experience for the civilian workplace.”

“There is a need to address misconceptions around veteran employment, educate employers and provide practical support to address barriers to veteran and veteran family employment.”

“The Program will support veterans to recognise and communicate the value of their skills gained in service, skills like leadership, teamwork, agility, discipline and an ability to work under pressure – all critical skills in the modern economy, all in demand by employers.”

More information about the Awards and the 2022 winners can be found on the Prime Minister’s National Veterans’ Employment Program website. For more information on the Veteran Employment Program, visit the www.veteransemployment.gov.au.

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling provides 24/7 free confidential crisis support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families on 1800 011 046 or openarms.gov.au. Safe Zone Support provides anonymous counselling on 1800 142 072.   Defence All-Hours Support Line provides support for ADF personnel on 1800 628 036 or defence.gov.au/health/healthportal. Defence Member and Family Helpline provides support for Defence families on 1800 624 608.

A full list of winners is below.

CategoryName/RepresentativeCompany
Veteran Employee of the YearNick ElstonGSA Management Consulting
Veteran Entrepreneur of the YearGarth ChesterValenhold
Partner Employee of the YearKatie VidalShe Maps
Partner Entrepreneur of the YearKelly WillmottGreen Fox Training Studio
Employer of the Year – Large Cubic Defence Australia
Employer of the Year – Medium Bluerydge
Employer of the Year – Small Viden
Excellence in Supporting Veteran and/or Partner Employment Vertical Scope Group
Outstanding Employer of the Year Bluerydge
Outstanding Contribution to Veteran and/or Partner EmploymentAmanda McCueCareer Swag

GOVERNMENT WELCOMES BELL INQUIRY REPORT

The Albanese Government welcomes the final report from the Bell Inquiry, handed down today by the Hon Justice Virginia Bell AC.

The Inquiry examined the appointment of former Prime Minister, the Hon Scott Morrison MP, to administer multiple departments without disclosure to his colleagues or the public.

The unprecedented and inexcusable actions of the former Prime Minister were emblematic of the culture of secrecy in which the previous Government operated.

The Bell Inquiry confirms the Solicitor-General’s conclusion that the principles of responsible government were “fundamentally undermined” because Mr Morrison was not “responsible” to the Parliament, and through the Parliament to the electors, for the departments he was appointed to administer.

Justice Bell found the secrecy around the appointments was “apt to undermine public confidence in government” and was “corrosive of trust in government.”

The Inquiry has made six recommendations to improve transparency, accountability and restore public trust in Australian democracy, including:

  • Legislation to require public notice of the appointment of Ministers to administer departments and hold offices;
  • The publication of acting arrangements for Ministers; and
  • The publication of details of which Ministers are appointed to administer departments and an outline of divisions of responsibilities where more than one Minister is appointed to the same department.

I will recommend to the next meeting of Cabinet that the Albanese Government accept all six of Justice Bell’s recommendations.

The quick implementation of these recommendations will ensure that the Australian public can have full confidence that this breach of trust will never happen again.

I thank Justice Bell and her team for the efforts in conducting this Inquiry.

The full report and recommendations can be viewed at: https://www.ministriesinquiry.gov.au/

Cyclist dies after fall – Hunter Valley

A cyclist has died after falling from his bike while on a group ride in the Hunter Valley this morning.

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District were called to Upper Dartbrook Road at Upper Dartbrook, 16km north-west of Scone, about 7.25am today (Saturday 26 November 2022), responding to reports a cyclist had suffered head injuries in a fall.

They’ve been told the man was on a regular organised ride with a group of cyclists when his bike slipped while crossing a culvert and he fell, hitting his head.

His fellow cyclists commenced CPR until officers from Hunter Valley Police District and NSW Ambulance paramedics arrived; however, he could not be revived and died at the scene.

He’s been identified as a 59-year-old man from Scone.

A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

MASSIVE JUMP IN SUPPORT FOR TREATY, ACCORDING TO NEW DATA FROM RECONCILIATION AUSTRALIA

“According to new data from Reconciliation Australia, national support for Treaty has jumped to 72%. That’s a 25% increase in four years!” Said Senator Lidia Thorpe, the Greens spokesperson for First Nations.

Senator Lidia Thorpe said:

“We learnt yesterday that First Nations children are 10x more likely to be living in out of home care than non-Indigenous kids, less than half of them are living with First Nations carers. Forcibly taking children away from their community is an act of genocide, according to the United Nations Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.

“Today, Reconciliation Australia showed us that 60% of First Nations people have experienced racism in the last six months.

“We know that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children are 26x more likely than their non-Indigenous classmates to be incarcerated.

“This is all evidence of systemic racism in this country. The solution is self-determination. It’s critical that First Nations people have more than just ‘a say’ over the matters that affect us. 

“Everyone is better off when we are free to steer our own course, yet successive Governments continue to lock First Nations people out of decision making processes and force policies onto us that continue the violent legacy of colonisation.

“We need a Treaty to redefine and rebuild the relationship between the Government and First Nations people. A Treaty will restore our right to make decisions for ourselves, our families, our communities and our homelands.

“Through real justice, we can build a society where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

“Treaty was promised by Bob Hawke’s Labor government in the 80s and it’s still unfinished business today. There’s growing support for First Nations people to be in the driver’s seat when it comes to making decisions about our community, our country and our culture. The Greens will keep fighting to make this a reality.” Said Thorpe.

GREENS SECURE MILLION-DOLLAR FINES FOR BANKERS

The Greens have secured legislation that will enforce civil penalties of up to $1.1 million for bankers who do not ensure proper conduct within financial institutions.

“The Greens have secured million dollar fines for dodgy bank executives,” Greens Economic Justice spokesperson Senator Nick McKim said.

“We recently had a once in a century Royal Commission that uncovered a litany of misconduct. But most bankers who ripped off their customers went unpunished, or even left with massive payouts.”

“The new Financial Accountability Regime will require bankers to take reasonable steps to ensure that banks are not ripping off customers.”

“The amendments secured by the Greens will ensure that if bankers breach their accountability obligations then they will get hit hard in their hip pocket.”

“The Morrison Government used the cover of the pandemic to go soft on the banks – the Greens will not allow the rot set in again.”

“We recently forced the government to commit to implementing outstanding Royal Commission recommendations after running dead on them during the election campaign.”

“We’ve also just secured the inclusion of dividends paid by bank owned super funds in  a new super transparency report.”

RECOGNITION OF CULTURAL HERITAGE 234 YEARS OVERDUE

The government’s response to ‘A Way Forward: Final report into the destruction of Indigenous heritage sites at Juukan Gorge’ is welcomed by The Greens, but the need for cohesive First Nations cultural heritage laws shouldn’t have taken global outrage at legal desecration to be acknowledged.

Greens spokesperson for resources Yamatji-Noongar Woman Senator Dorinda Cox said:

“It is disappointing to hear the government didn’t consult with the Traditional Owners before tabling their response to the reports. It seems the Minister is more concerned with positive media than consulting the Puutu Kunti Kurrama and Pinikura people and building “genuine partnerships” through listening and learning.

“I asked in estimates whether the government would adopt recommendation 1 of the ‘A Way Forward’ report. I am disheartened to hear this is not the case. I don’t know how they can claim to respect First Nations culture when the ultimate say doesn’t lie with the Indigenous Minister.

“Senator Thorpe’s bill to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People (UNDRIP) must be fast-tracked if the government wants to “do better”.

“Stopping manufactured consent is paramount, as is consulting all stakeholders – this was highlighted in the recent ruling against Santos for failing to consult with all Traditional Owners regarding their Barossa Gas project.

“If the world hadn’t shown outrage at Rio Tinto’s actions, would there still be a push from Labor to reform cultural heritage laws? 

“The Minister has the opportunity now to prevent another disaster by protecting the Murujuga artwork and seven sisters songline that are currently under threat.”

Investing in people key to Newcastle’s economic future

Addressing skills shortages and leveraging future opportunities for jobs and economic growth will be on the agenda when City of Newcastle (CN) meets with local business leaders today.

Around 90 representatives from across the region’s business community will come together for CEO Connect, a Business Hunter event hosted by CN which will shine a light on economic opportunities for Gateway Cities such as Newcastle in a post-COVID world.

Newcastle Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen, Business Hunter CEO Bob Hawes, Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes, CEO Connect event guest speaker Tim Williams and City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath.

The meeting will also be used to highlight initiatives being delivered as part of CN’s economic development strategy including a new digital tool, ‘Imagine Newcastle’, developed to attract people to live, work and study in Newcastle.

With job advertisements in Newcastle at record levels and local businesses experiencing chronic skills shortages, Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said investing in people and their skills is key to the city’s economic growth.

“City of Newcastle’s Economic Development Strategy focusses on long-term actions to help create new jobs, drive investment and promote innovation,” Cr Nelmes said.

“We believe that Newcastle and the Hunter region’s economic future will be built on the talent, skills and ingenuity of our people.

“We have invested significantly in infrastructure, support programs for local business people and initiatives aimed at attracting skills and talent to the region as well as supporting the development and growth of Newcastle businesses and their employees.

“Our new digital platform ‘Imagine Newcastle’ provides another avenue to help address future skills shortages and growth industry job opportunities, delivering the insights and information needed to encourage people to live, study, invest or grow their business in our creative, culturally rich and innovative global city.”

Cr Nelmes said ‘Imagine Newcastle’ would leverage the migration trend that is seeing more people than ever before relocating to Newcastle from metropolitan centres like Melbourne and Sydney, including a predominance of young professionals.

Research shows that better quality of life is one of the key drivers to people choosing to relocate to a new area.

“Newcastle is perfectly positioned to cater for this need, offering a destination with the lifestyle, community and culture people are searching for, enhanced by the career and business opportunities available in our city’s innovative industries and future-focused economy,” Cr Nelmes said.

See why Newcastle is a great place to work, live, play and create, visit www.movetonewcastle.com.au