December 2022 – Page 3

LANDMARK REWIRING THE NATION DEAL TO FAST-TRACK CLEAN ENERGY JOBS AND SECURITY IN NSW

The Albanese and Perrottet Governments today announced a landmark deal to connect New South Wales’ Renewable Energy Zones (REZs) and plug Snowy 2.0 into the grid, to create thousands of new energy jobs, and deliver energy that’s more reliable, more secure and more affordable across the east coast.

The joint $7.8 billion deal will back eight critical transmission and REZ projects, supporting more than 3,900 jobs in the regions.

The Albanese Government’s Rewiring the Nation plan will enable $4.7 billion from the Commonwealth to join with $3.1 billion from the NSW Transmission Acceleration Facility, to help NSW realise its Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap and increase reliability across the east coast grid.

This agreement will unlock the below critical transmission and REZ projects:

Sydney Ring – Hunter Transmission Project (HTP);
Central-West Orana (CWO) Renewable Energy Zones (REZ);
New England (NE) REZ;
HumeLink;
VNI West;
Hunter-Central Coast (HCC) REZ, including potential offshore wind opportunities;
Sydney Ring – Southern Sydney Ring; and
South-West REZ.

Australia’s electricity grid needs to be strengthened and reconfigured to meet the demands of the rapidly changing electricity market it serves.

Today’s agreement marks the next step in its urgent upgrade to ensure reliability and affordability across the network.

This latest Rewiring the Nation backing follows the landmark deal between the Commonwealth, Tasmanian and Victorian governments for two undersea cables to link Tasmania’s Battery of the Nation projects to the mainland; the Victorian leg of VNI West (Kerang Link); and a range of REZ projects, including offshore wind.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said:

“The Commonwealth has worked hand in glove with the states and territories to shield Australian households and businesses from the worst impacts of the energy crisis caused by Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.”

“But as well as that critical short-term action, the Australian economy can seize the opportunity of more affordable and reliable renewable energy over the long term– creating jobs in the regions that have always powered Australia, and insulating ourselves from global fossil fuel shocks at the same time.”

“Support for critical transmission infrastructure like Sydney Ring, VNI West and HumeLink, to get across the line, will help transform Australia into a renewable energy superpower.”

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said:

“This joint $7.8 billion funding deal will support the projected $32 billion in private investment for regional energy infrastructure by 2030.”

“This is our opportunity to invest in our future industries that will drive jobs and wealth creation in our State.”

NSW Treasurer and Energy Minister Matt Kean said:

“This is a huge win for NSW that will create new energy jobs across the state and unlock cleaner, cheaper and more secure energy. This investment will support the delivery of our Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap through fast-tracking the development of REZs and transmission infrastructure.”

“These projects are expected to support more than 3,900 jobs during the construction of this critical transmission infrastructure.”

Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen said:

“The best way to lower energy prices for Australian households and businesses is by increasing firmed renewables across our grid, it is the cheapest and most abundant form of energy across our vast continent.”

“Today’s announcement helps make that a reality by supporting the projects to plug Snowy 2.0 into the grid and linking REZs to ensure the energy can be supplied from wherever the wind is blowing and the sun is shining, to where it’s used by households and industry.”

“Together, the Sydney Ring, VNI West and the HumeLink projects will increase network resilience and energy reliability for consumers and help put downward pressure on electricity bills in years to come.”

Ensure you are protected against measles and polio before going overseas

Australians travelling overseas over the festive period are urged to understand the health risks associated with any countries they are planning to visit, and in particular, consider the risks posed by measles and polio.

People should ensure they are fully immunised against measles and polio before travelling to any country in which the highly infectious diseases are present.

Measles and polio are found in numerous countries popular with Australian tourists – and it is concerning that immunisation coverage rates have fallen in some of these destinations.

Countries in which measles is commonly found include India, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand. It is also widespread in some Middle Eastern countries and across Africa. Outbreaks have occurred in Europe, the UK, and North and South America in recent years.

If you travel to a country where measles is present and you are not fully immunised, you risk catching the disease, and spreading it – and severe illness – to others.

Two doses of measles-containing vaccine delivers lifelong protection against the disease in 99 per cent of vaccinated people – and people who have previously been infected are also immune.

Polio remains endemic in Afghanistan and Pakistan – and a further 33 countries have experienced outbreaks in 2022.

Vaccination against polio is recommended every 10 years for adults at higher risk of exposure to the disease.

Your vaccination status may be recorded on the Australian Immunisation Register – and your doctor can provide advice on whether you need to get vaccinated against measles or polio.

For information about measles, polio and getting vaccinated, please visit the Department of Health and Aged Care website.

For specific advice related to your travel destination, please visit the Australian Government Smart Traveller website.

Sunny days ahead with the arrival of new kiosk

Christmas has come early for Newcastle beachgoers, with the opening of a new kiosk at Dixon Park Beach just in time for the busy summer school holiday period.

Newcastle’s newest beach coffee haunt, Sunnyboy Kiosk, serves up 15 flavours of gelato, fresh juices, acai bowls, pastries, fish and chips, and hamburgers, with ample shade and seating, all overlooking Bathers Way and delivered as part of City of Newcastle’s ongoing coastal revitalisation works.

Newcastle Councillor Carol Duncan with operators Tom and Nova Carias at the newly opened Sunnyboy Kiosk at Dixon Park Beach.

Councillor Carol Duncan said the well-positioned kiosk will see it used year-round by locals and visitors.

“Newcastle’s southern beaches are world-renowned, and the revitalisation of the kiosk demonstrates City of Newcastle’s commitment to ensuring our incredible coastal assets remain accessible and attractive for our community to enjoy,” Cr Duncan said.

“The opening of the kiosk completes the building’s transformation and complements the iconic Mark Richards mural, which has been expertly renewed by Up&Up Inspirations.

“We look forward seeing how the community interacts with the revitalised space throughout the summer.”

Sunnyboy Kiosk lessee and operators Tom and Nova Carias said they were ready to serve up tasty treats for the community at Dixon Park Beach.

“Sunnyboy Kiosk will be the place to be this summer,” Ms Carias said.

“We opened our doors to the public this week just in time for the start of the summer school holidays and we look forward to sunny days ahead welcoming surfers straight out of the water, beachgoers off the beach with sandy feet and meeting locals who will make this their regular coffee haunt.”

The refurbishment of the Dixon Park Beach kiosk supports City of Newcastle’s Coastal Revitalisation program, which began in 2010 as part of a long-term commitment to enhance Newcastle’s coastline.

Major Work on the Great Western Highway to start in the new year

The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is powering ahead with the $4.5 billion upgrade to the Great Western Highway, announcing Abergeldie Complex Infrastructure has been awarded the contract to begin major work at Medlow Bath in the new year.

Deputy Premier, Minister for Regional NSW and Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said the Medlow Bath upgrade will mark the first section of major work on the Great Western Highway upgrade between Lithgow and Katoomba.
“The Great Western Highway upgrade is fast becoming a re`ality – major work is due to start as soon as March on this project which will be life changing for the thousands of people that use the road every day,” Mr Toole said.
“The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government has worked incredibly hard to ensure this transformative project happens- because we know the difference it will make from the Blue Mountains and beyond.”

As part of the upgrade, 1.2-kilometre section of highway through Medlow Bath will be widened to four lanes with new dedicated right turning lanes and a signalised intersection will be built at Bellevue Crescent including a new left turning bay, and a new pedestrian bridge.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government was pushing ahead with the project because there was a real fear a Chris Minns Labor Government would put it on the chopping block.

“We saw what happened in the Federal Budget, funding was deferred to the outer years, a clear sign Labor intends to punt the project to Never-Neverland,” Mr Farraway said.

“NSW Labor left us with a $30 billion infrastructure backlog bill and in the last 12 years we’ve worked hard to build legacy infrastructure projects that will make a huge difference to the lives of people across our state now and into the future.”

The NSW Government is also inviting community feedback on the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Blackheath to Little Hartley tunnel from next month.

More information on the Great Western Highway upgrade is available on the Transport for NSW website.

Nepean Hospital upgrade another step closer

The Penrith and Blue Mountains communities will soon see the second stage of the $1 billion expansion and upgrade of Nepean Hospital underway, with a main works contractor now appointed.

Minister for Health Brad Hazzard today announced CPB Contractors will construct the hospital’s second clinical services building, to deliver additional first class healthcare services in Western Sydney for future generations.

“The NSW Government is delivering a second state-of-the-art clinical services building for the upgraded Nepean Hospital, which will seamlessly connect with the first tower we opened earlier this year. This incredible expansion of Nepean Hospital will provide the very best healthcare for the Penrith and Blue Mountains communities,” Mr Hazzard said.

The new clinical services building includes an intensive care unit, in-centre renal dialysis unit, medical imaging and nuclear medicine services, more in-patient units, and a large and welcoming front-of-house for the hospital.

Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres said Stage 2 of the Nepean Hospital redevelopment will also provide better community-based healthcare in Penrith to benefit local families and young people for years to come.

“In addition to a second state-of-the-art clinical services building we’re delivering a community health centre in Soper Place, right in the heart of Penrith, where locals can easily access integrated health care and mental health services for families and young people at home and in the community,” Mr Ayres said.

“With both the consultation and designs currently underway, I encourage everyone to have a say in shaping their new community health centre by completing the online survey which is open now.”

The redevelopment team has been focused on Stage 2 enabling works which include relocating some services, repurposing some of the existing infrastructure, and delivering an expanded pathology service on the ground floor of Building E.

Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies said Stage 2 construction would ramp up early next year.

“The Nepean Hospital campus is buzzing with activity as we prepare the campus for main works in 2023 for the second new clinical services building, creating more job opportunities and ensuring better health outcomes for local people,” Ms Davies said.

“The next stage of this major redevelopment builds on the enhanced services and health facilities now available in the hospital’s new clinical tower to provide our region with more high-quality healthcare, making it an even more appealing place to work and live.”

Stage 1 of the redevelopment included a new clinical building that opened in 2022 featuring an emergency department, 18 birthing suites, a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, 16 operating theatres and more than 200 beds, in contemporary and bright in-patient units. The Stage 1 tower also provides coronary care services and an additional inpatient unit floor, which were fast-tracked from Stage 2 funding.

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.

To complete the online survey on the new community health centre visit: https://forms.office.com/r/eUs580DxRd

For more information about the Nepean Hospital Redevelopment visit: https://www.nepeanredevelopment.health.nsw.gov.au/

Phoenix Pumped Hydro Project Progresses with $7 million grant

Up to 400,000 NSW households could soon be powered by renewable electricity generated at the Phoenix Pumped Hydro station after the project received $7 million in support from the NSW Government to progress feasibility studies.

The Phoenix Pumped Hydro project, located at the Burrendong Dam, near Wellington and within the Central West Orana REZ, will provide 810MW of capacity and storage for up to 12 continuous hours of electricity generation.

Minister for Energy Matt Kean said pumped hydro will form an essential building block of the electricity system of the future.

“Pumped hydro acts like a giant battery for the electricity system. It works by using surplus renewable energy to pump water up a hill when it is sunny and windy, and releasing the water back down the hill through giant turbines that create electricity when it is still and dark,” Mr Kean said.

“Bringing the grant funding and development access together will play a key role in fast-tracking the development of pumped hydro, which will be critical to replace our ageing coal fire power stations.”

Minster for Lands and Water Kevin Anderson said through the WaterNSW’s Renewable Energy and Storage Program, WaterNSW is looking at ways to leverage its land and assets to deliver benefits for future energy security and its customers.

“WaterNSW is looking to the market to identify renewable generation and storage opportunities on WaterNSW land and assets,” Mr Anderson said.

“I’m really excited by this opportunity for WaterNSW to work hand in hand with government to support the renewable energy transition and at the same time look for innovative ways to keep our customers’ bills as low as possible.”

The project will be funded by the NSW Pumped Hydro Recoverable Grants Program and a Development Agreement under WaterNSW’s Renewable Energy and Storage Program.

It’s expected to be operational by 2030 and would play a key role in providing dispatchable, long duration storage to support energy market security.

The NSW Government committed a further $24 million to the Pumped Hydro Recoverable Grants Program in the June Budget. This funding is expected to expand the pipeline of pumped hydro projects that can make competitive bids for Long-Term Energy Service Agreements for long duration storage.

The NSW Government will also invest $23.5 million to undertake feasibility studies to develop pumped hydro projects on key WaterNSW assets throughout the State. The outcomes of these feasibility studies and the potential opportunities will be made available to the private sector in early 2023.

Next steps for M7 and M12

Plans to futureproof the M7 and M12 motorways have been approved by the NSW Government, providing a major boost to the road network in Western Sydney.

WSO Co will deliver the proposed works, which include widening the M7 between the M5 at Prestons and Richmond Rd at Oakhurst, and building a new interchange between the M7 and M12 and an upgrade to Elizabeth Drive to connect it to the M12.

Minister for Finance Damien Tudehope said the project would provide a vital connection to the new toll-free M12 motorway and support the projected growth of the region.

“Western Sydney is one of the fastest growing regions in Australia, which is why our Liberal National Government is investing in the transport and infrastructure now, to support this projected growth and ensure the region and its residents continue to thrive,” Mr Tudehope said.

“The M7 will be widened to six lanes between Prestons and Oakhurst, meaning drivers will be able to travel along this major Western Sydney road more quickly and safely, benefitting both commuters and business that rely on this key freight route.

“The project will also include integrate the M7 with the new M12, a 16 kilometre-long toll-free motorway that will connect to the new Western Sydney International Airport and Western Parkland City.

“This will support workers and families across Western Sydney by cutting travel times and improving access to industrial hubs including Bradfield.”

The agreement is subject to final planning approval. There will be no change to existing toll prices on the M7.

The M12 Motorway is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments and is scheduled to open in 2026.

For more information go to:
M12 motorway: M12 Motorway – Projects – Roads and Waterways – Transport for NSW
M7 widening: Westlink M7 Widening – Projects – Roads and Waterways – Transport for NSW

LANDMARK REWIRING THE NATION DEAL TO FAST-TRACK CLEAN ENERGY JOBS AND SECURITY IN NSW

The joint $7.8 billion deal will back eight critical transmission and REZ projects, supporting more than 3,900 jobs in the regions.

This agreement will unlock the below critical transmission and REZ projects:

Sydney Ring – Hunter Transmission Project (HTP);
Central-West Orana (CWO) Renewable Energy Zones (REZ);
New England (NE) REZ;
HumeLink;
VNI West;
Hunter-Central Coast (HCC) REZ, including potential offshore wind opportunities;
Sydney Ring – Southern Sydney Ring; and
South-West REZ.

Australia’s electricity grid needs to be strengthened and reconfigured to meet the demands of the rapidly changing electricity market it serves.

Today’s agreement marks the next step in its urgent upgrade to ensure reliability and affordability across the network.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said:

“The Commonwealth has worked hand in glove with the states and territories to shield Australian households and businesses from the worst impacts of the energy crisis caused by Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.”

“But as well as that critical short-term action, the Australian economy can seize the opportunity of more affordable and reliable renewable energy over the long term– creating jobs in the regions that have always powered Australia, and insulating ourselves from global fossil fuel shocks at the same time.”

“Support for critical transmission infrastructure like Sydney Ring, VNI West and HumeLink, to get across the line, will help transform Australia into a renewable energy superpower.”

“This is our opportunity to invest in our future industries that will drive jobs and wealth creation in our State.”

NSW Treasurer and Energy Minister Matt Kean said:

“This is a huge win for NSW that will create new energy jobs across the state and unlock cleaner, cheaper and more secure energy. This investment will support the delivery of our Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap through fast-tracking the development of REZs and transmission infrastructure.”

“These projects are expected to support more than 3,900 jobs during the construction of this critical transmission infrastructure.”

Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen said:

“The best way to lower energy prices for Australian households and businesses is by increasing firmed renewables across our grid, it is the cheapest and most abundant form of energy across our vast continent.”

“Today’s announcement helps make that a reality by supporting the projects to plug Snowy 2.0 into the grid and linking REZs to ensure the energy can be supplied from wherever the wind is blowing and the sun is shining, to where it’s used by households and industry.”

“Together, the Sydney Ring, VNI West and the HumeLink projects will increase network resilience and energy reliability for consumers and help put downward pressure on electricity bills in years to come.”

Appointment of Australian Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Consul-General

Our foreign service is the driver of Australia’s engagement with the world.

Today we announce new appointments that strengthen Australia’s diplomatic capability and its prosecution of our national interests around the globe.

In keeping with past practice of appointing experienced former ministers to significant diplomatic posts, the Government intends to appoint the Hon Dr Kevin Rudd AC as Australia’s next Ambassador to the United States.

Dr Rudd brings unmatched experience to the role. He has served as Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, held prominent academic roles and worked extensively in the United States. It is intended that he will commence his posting in early 2023.

Joining Dr Rudd in the United States is Ms Heather Ridout AO as Australia’s Consul-General in New York, she is the first woman to be appointed to the role. A former Chief Executive of the Australian Industry Group, Ms Ridout brings four decades of experience to the role. She is currently Director of Sims Ltd and Director of Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) Limited.

We are also pleased to announce Ms Bronte Moules as Australia’s inaugural Ambassador for Human Rights. As Ambassador for Human Rights, Ms Moules will lead Australia’s work to protect and promote human rights globally and be a key advocate on issues of importance to our region.

Ms Stephanie Copus-Campbell has been appointed Australia’s Ambassador for Gender Equality. Ms Copus-Campbell will deepen Australia’s international engagement on gender equality with her expertise in community development, gender equality and health.

We also announce the appointment of career diplomats to lead Australian posts:

Ms Sophie Davies as Australia’s Ambassador to Brazil
Dr Ralph King as Australia’s Ambassador to Israel
Ms Sonya Koppe as Australia’s High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago
Ms Minoli Perera as Australia’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe
Mr Richard Rodgers as Australia’s Ambassador to Croatia
Ms Phoebe Smith as Australia’s High Commissioner to the Cook Islands

We thank outgoing ambassadors, high commissioners and consul-general for their contributions to advancing Australia’s interests in these countries during their respective tenures.

COP15 DEAL FOR NATURE PUTS AUSTRALIA ON NOTICE

Greens Environment Spokesperson Senator Sarah Hanson-Young, who has been in Montreal with the Australian Delegation for the global biodiversity conference COP15, said the new deal agreed overnight puts Australia on notice.

Senator Hanson-Young said:

“The world’s agreement at this conference to protect 30 per cent of land and 30 per cent of oceans is important. The inclusion of a target to halt extinction by 2030 was the minimum commitment needed for species protection – it should be halted now.

“The world has agreed and now it’s time for Australia to get serious about protecting nature too. This agreement will come to nothing unless it’s funded and implemented properly, and with urgency.

“In Australia halting extinction means governments must stop allowing the destruction of habitat and stop logging and mining in our native forests.

“There is no serious commitment to saving our animals while their homes are being destroyed by government sanctioned mines, logging and development.

“The 30% protection target is a start, but the big question is how we care and protect the remaining 70% of our environment. We can’t stop animals becoming extinct or keep our drinking water clean without reducing the human footprint on this planet. Reckless environmental destruction for the sake of corporate profits is killing Mother Nature.

“Australia will never be taken seriously while it continues to approve new polluting coal and gas mines. We must have a climate trigger in our laws to stop fossil fuel projects making the climate crisis worse.

“We must use this new agreement as the impetus for immediate action. Our koalas need their homes saved now, not just what’s left in 10 years’ time.”