The NSW Opposition has welcomed today’s joint investment between the Federal and NSW Governments to improve energy efficiency in social housing but says the support doesn’t go far enough.
Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman is calling on Premier Chris Minns to adopt the Oppositions’ NSW Energy Bill Saver program that would allow all households to receive $250 off their energy bills and unlock up to $400 in further savings by switching energy plans to a lower deal.
“Chris Minns is determined to pick winners and losers as families and households struggle under Labor’s cost of living crisis,” Mr Speakman said.
“Everyone is struggling to make ends meet at the moment, and our NSW Energy Bill Saver program would have provided help for hard working families right across our State. Chris Minns decided to scrap this commitment and instead deliver limited energy relief.”
The Opposition pointed to Labor Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s broken promise to deliver $275 off power bills, saying Chris Minns’ decision is making a bad situation worse.
“It’s clear that when it comes to cost of living support Chris Minns is out of touch and Labor simply can’t deliver,” Mr Speakman said.
“Our focus is on holding this Government to account for their cuts to Back to School vouchers, Active Kids, Creative Kids, First Lap vouchers and energy relief, cuts that are hurting families and households across NSW,” Mr Speakman said.
Month: January 2024
Minns out of touch with NSW families
The NSW Opposition says Premier Chris Minns is out of touch with NSW families and doesn’t understand the current cost of living crisis after he was unaware of his cuts to Back to School vouchers.
“In their first Budget, the Minns Labor Government axed the Liberals and Nationals Government’s Back to School vouchers, a cost of living assistance package that gave all parents $150 per child in vouchers to help with the costs of school supplies, uniforms and technology,” Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said.
“In a comment which shows that Chris Minns doesn’t get the current cost of living crisis, he remarkably declared that ‘Back to School vouchers haven’t been changed’”.
“If Chris Minns isn’t aware of his own decisions to axe cost of living support for families, how can he possibly begin to understand the impact of his cuts?”
Shadow Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said the axing of Back to School vouchers follows Chris Minns’ decision to break his election promise and slash Active Kids, Creative Kids and First Lap vouchers.
“The Opposition understands the importance of helping families with the cost of school, sports and extracurricular activities – that’s why we implemented these vouchers,” Ms Mitchell said.
“In another example of just how out of touch the Minns Labor Government is, the Deputy Premier and Minister for Education described this important support as a ‘cash splash’.”
“Families are paying the price for Labor’s Budget mismanagement. The Opposition will continue to fight for families and for more support to address the increasing cost of living.”
Chris Minns must support families and restore back to school vouchers
The NSW Opposition is calling for Premier Chris Minns to help families struggling under Labor’s cost of living crisis by continuing the former Liberal and Nationals Government’s Back to School voucher program.
“In his first Budget, Chris Minns axed the former Government’s Back to School vouchers, a cost of living assistance package that gave all parents $150 in vouchers per child to help with the costs of school supplies, uniforms and technology,” Leader of the NSW Opposition Mark Speakman said.
“As parents and students prepare for a new school year, the pain of this decision is being felt right across our State. People are rightly asking what Chris Minns and his Government are doing to help address the rising cost of living.”
“The Back to School vouchers, along with slashing Active Kids, Creative Kids and First Lap vouchers, are casualties of Chris Minns’ broken promise that his union wage deals would be Budget-neutral and funded through productivity gains.”
“Chris Minns’ union pay deal will cost the NSW taxpayer $9.5 billion over the coming four years; this could pay for the Back to School voucher program almost 50 times over.”
Shadow Minister for Education and Early Education Sarah Mitchell said Chris Minns and his Education Minister were out of touch with the needs of families.
“As families struggle to cover schooling costs, Chris Minns’ Education Minister described this important program as a ‘cash splash’ – how arrogant and out of touch can you get? It’s time for NSW Labor to prioritise hard working families,” Ms Mitchell said.
“It’s estimated that the annual cost of school supplies for a primary school student is now more than $650. These vouchers didn’t cover all the costs, but they did make a meaningful difference for families.”
“Parents shouldn’t have to choose between a new pair of shoes, textbooks or electronic devices, but this is the reality many families across NSW face.”
Minister for Corrections must come clean on job losses
The NSW Opposition is calling on the Minns Labor Government to come clean with the people of NSW regarding their plans for Corrective Services across the State.
Last week it emerged that wings would be closed at Bathurst, Cessnock, Goulburn and Long Bay from 12 February, but conflicting reports about the consultation undertaken requires the Minister for Corrections to come clean on the Government’s plans.
“On the one hand, the Department of Corrections claim sufficient consultation was undertaken, while on the other hand, the Public Services Association say the upcoming closures had been “badly handled” and the union hadn’t been made aware of the plans,” Shadow Minister for Corrections Mark Taylor said.
“The big question mark is over the future security of jobs at these centres, particularly in the regional centres of Bathurst and Goulburn, the Minister must come clean and guarantee these jobs.”
“The Minns Labor Government went to the election promising integrity, accountability, transparency and fairness, yet this is another example of the Labor Government making swift decisions behind closed doors with no consultation with the public.”
The NSW Opposition said this is yet another example of the Minister missing in action.
“It’s clear that the Minister simply doesn’t have time for this Portfolio. The Minister for Corrections must come clean on his decision to not meet with the Public Services Union to discuss these closures,” Mr Taylor said.
“It follows the decision in October to hand control of the Junee Correctional Facility to the heavily unionised Corrective Services NSW, a decision that was taken without the Minister even visiting the Junee Correctional Centre.”
“The Minister’s hands-off approach should alarm every person in NSW, we need a Minister who cares about the state of Corrections.”
Construction underway on M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace
The M1 Pacific Motorway’s ‘missing link’ will finally be fixed, thanks to investment from the Australian and NSW governments.
Shovels have been put in the ground and the foundations laid for the transformative and vital M1 Pacific Motorway extension, which state and federal Ministers will visit today.
The $2.1 billion M1 extension, which includes upgrades to the surrounding network, such as the Hexham Straight widening, is funded by both levels of government, with the Australian Government committing $1.68 billion and the NSW Government committing $420 million.
It will feature a 15-kilometre extension of the motorway, removing five sets of traffic lights and cutting nine minutes from travel times during peak periods.
It will also deliver a 2.6-kilometre viaduct over the Hunter River and floodplain, the Main North Rail Line, and the New England Highway.
There will also be new bridge crossings over local waterways at Tarro and Raymond Terrace, and an overpass for Masonite Road at Heatherbrae.
This is one of two remaining locations on the east coast corridor where the route is an urban road with traffic lights – the other being at Coffs Harbour, where work is also well underway on a new bypass which is due to be completed in late 2027.
The M1 extension at Raymond Terrace is expected to be open to traffic in 2028.
For further information visit: M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said:
“It’s so exciting to stand alongside the NSW Government and see shovels in the ground for a project which will be a huge benefit to travellers and truck drivers, but also to Hunter Valley families.”
“All over Australia, my Government is building stronger foundations for a better future.
“This upgrade will mean quicker travel times between Sydney and Brisbane, but most importantly – safer travel for families and workers who use this route going up and down the east coast.”
Premier of NSW Chris Minns said:
“The NSW Government is proud to partner with the Commonwealth to deliver this vital infrastructure which will improve reliability and efficiency for those travelling across our state, particularly in the Hunter region.
“Not only will this provide smoother journeys for drivers in the area, but it will also boost economic activity and provide local jobs.”
Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said:
“This project, together with the Coffs Harbour bypass, will provide the remaining major upgrades to complete a free-flowing dual carriageway route between Sydney and Brisbane.
“The M1 extension will create more efficient and reliable journeys by bypassing five sets of traffic lights, saving nine minutes in travel time and removing about 25,000 vehicles a day from key congestion and merge points between Newcastle and Maitland.
“I’m delighted that both the Australian and NSW governments are working together to complete the job so locals across the Hunter can see an end to the traffic chaos and daily delays.”
NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said:
“This will provide a welcome boost to the economy by supporting up to 2,700 direct and indirect jobs during construction and will transform the way people move to and from and through the Hunter.
“More than $3 billion of road projects are being funded by the Australian and NSW governments across the Hunter at the moment.
“This not only boosts the regional, State and Federal economy but will improve safety and efficiency for our local and regional communities and all motorists.”
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley MP said:
“This project will transform our region.
“Not only will the M1 extension improve congestion and save travel time, but hundreds of good jobs will be created throughout construction.”
Over $200m in cost-of-living energy upgrades for over 30,000 NSW households
The Albanese and Minns Governments are delivering long-term cost-of-living savings to over 30,000 NSW households, with a $206 million package for energy saving upgrades in social housing properties and access to solar for low-income renters and apartment residents.
Some social housing properties are among the least energy-efficient homes in the country, often lacking basic insulation and modern appliances.
Upgrading an average house from a 1-star rating to a 3-star rating can reduce energy consumption by 30 per cent and decrease power bills.
That’s why the Commonwealth and New South Wales Governments are providing matched funding of $87.5 million ($175 million total over four years) to help reduce energy bills for tenants and keep their homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Over 24,000 homes will be eligible for upgrades including heat pump hot water systems, ceiling fans, reverse-cycle air conditioners, solar systems, insulation and draught proofing.
The social housing properties will be a mix of NSW Government-owned and managed homes, along with those overseen by community housing providers.
Priority will be given to the least energy-efficient properties – often older homes built prior to minimum construction standards – along with locations that experience extreme heat and cold.
The Commonwealth Government is also investing $30 million to make sure low-income households and apartment residents can reap the saving of renewables by helping to fund rooftop solar installations on apartments, or accessing a portion of a ‘solar garden’ community energy plot.
- The ‘Solar Banks’ initiative will deliver rebates of up to 50 per cent of rooftop solar installation costs for multi-unit dwellings.
- Low-income households, apartment residents and renters who can’t install or afford onsite rooftop solar will be eligible for a subsidy to purchase an offsite ‘solar garden’ portion of a large scale solar farm under the deal.
More than 10,000 households will be able to access the Solar Banks program, which could save households up to $600 a year.
A further $1 million will be invested in community renewable energy projects on the Far South Coast, delivering on the Australian Government’s election commitment. The funding will go to local clean energy projects which will create local jobs, deliver cleaner, cheaper energy to local communities.
These initiatives come as joint Commonwealth-NSW energy bill rebates continue to flow.
Up to 1.6 million eligible households are being supported with $500 to help pay their electricity bills.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said:
“Saving energy means saving money, which is why we’re continuing to deliver cost of living relief for families that need it most without adding to inflation.
“This $206 million package will mean 30,000 households across New South Wales will be able to access upgrades that will make their homes more energy efficient.
“We want all Australians to have access to cleaner, cheaper energy. Renewable energy for social housing helps power bills and is good for the environment.”
Premier Chris Minns said:
“Our number one priority is helping people across NSW with the cost of living, and helping with power bills is a key pillar of that.
“We are investing to save people money while also getting NSW’s energy transition back on track.
“We are proud to partner with the Albanese Government to deliver cheaper, cleaner energy to some of the least energy efficient houses in the country.”
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said:
“Critical energy upgrades in social housing properties and strong solar energy incentives for apartment block residents across NSW will deliver cleaner, cheaper energy to more Australians.
“The Albanese Government is helping those who can’t currently access energy upgrades and solar power reap the rewards of the clean energy transformation.
“Today’s announcement comes on top of our Energy Price Relief Plan, which is supporting 1.6 million eligible NSW households with $500 off their bills.”
NSW Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said:
“By partnering with the Commonwealth, we will be able to roll out a series of vital upgrades and initiatives that will deliver bill savings for low-income earners, make homes more comfortable to live in and reduce carbon emissions.”
“The Minns Government is investing in social housing through long overdue energy efficiency upgrades to improve equity in the energy transition.
“The Solar Banks program will support over 10,000 apartment dwellers and renters who have traditionally been locked out of owning solar.”
Third man arrested over the murder of Zachery Davies-Scott in the Hunter region
Homicide Detectives have arrested a third man following an investigation into a home invasion and fatal shooting in the Hunter region.
About 10.50pm on Tuesday 27 December 2022, emergency services were called to Traders Way at Heddon Greta – about 20km east of Cessnock – following reports a man had been shot.
NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the man; however, he died at the scene.
He has since been identified as 25-year-old Zachery ‘Zac’ Davies-Scott, known to many in the area as ‘Donnie’.
State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad took carriage of the investigation under Strike Force Roslyn, with assistance provided from officers attached to the Hunter Valley Police District and Northern Region.
Police were told a group of people allegedly forced entry to the Heddon Greta home before Mr Davies-Scott was fatally shot in what is believed to be a home invasion gone wrong.
A 52-year-old woman also sustained minor injuries attempting to fight off the alleged attackers.
Other family members home at the time – including two children, aged two and four, and Mr Davies-Scott’s pregnant partner – witnessed the incident, but were uninjured.
Following inquiries, about 4.50am today (Tuesday 16 January 2024) strike force detectives – with assistance from Raptor Squad – arrested a 25-year-old man at Elermore Vale. He was taken to Waratah Police Station where he is expected to be charged. A search warrant is being executed at a home in Elermore Vale.
Two men remain before the courts charged over this incident, while a 25-year-old woman was arrested on 5 January 2024, and charged with hindering the investigation, and possess a prohibited drug. She’s due to appear in Kurri Kurri Local Court on 23 January 2024.
Investigations under Strike Force Roslyn continue.
Appeal to locate man missing from Wyee
Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man missing from the Wyee area.
Adam Bennett, aged 50, was last seen on Bushells Ridge Road, Wyee, about 4pm on Monday (15 January 2024).
When he was unable to be located, officers attached to Tuggerah Lakes Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.
Police and family hold serious concerns for his welfare.
Adam is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 160cm – 170cm tall, of a thin build, with short brown hair and blue eyes.
He was last seen wearing a blue t-shirt, grey shorts and black thongs.
Adam is known to frequent the Gosford and Wyee areas.
Anyone with information into Adam’s whereabouts is urged to contact Tuggerah Lakes Police District or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Man missing from Maitland located
A man missing from Maitland has been located.
The 39-year-old was last seen in Tenambit about 7:30pm Monday (8 January 2024).
When he couldn’t be located or contacted, officers attached to Port Stephens Hunter Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.
About 11am today (Sunday 14 January 2024) the man was located safe at Belmont.
Police would like to thank the public and the media for their assistance.
Regional communities to receive additional paramedics
The NSW Government is delivering on its election commitment for additional regional paramedics, with the first cohort beginning their six-week induction programs this month.
It will see 125 additional paramedics arriving in regional, rural and remote communities by the middle of this year.
The following regional and rural locations have been proposed to receive the additional paramedics:
- Port Macquarie Station
- South West Rocks Station
- Lismore Station
- Goulburn Station
- Bathurst Station
- Blayney Station
- Lithgow Station
- Mudgee Station
- Parkes Station
- Broken Hill Station
- Ballina Station
NSW Ambulance will be consulting with the Health Services Union and local staff about the proposed locations.
The HSU have been strong advocates for more regional paramedics and have worked closely with the government on the implementation of this ambitious structural reform.
These new paramedics will join a cohort of more than 6,700 NSW Ambulance staff who share a commitment to excellence in serving their communities across NSW.
This major workforce boost will deliver better health outcomes for patients and their families, while also providing more support to our existing NSW Ambulance staff in the bush.
The NSW Government will continue to roll out the full additional 500 paramedics over a four year period.
The recruitment of additional health workers follows the announcement of a record pay increase for paramedics announced in December. This historic four-year agreement was partially funded from savings from the Health portfolio including savings associated with paramedic recruitment challenges such as additional paramedic recruitment.
The Minns Labor Government’s commitment to boost regional paramedics forms part of a broader suite of measures to build a supported regional workforce and improve access and delivery of healthcare across regional communities, including:
- doubling rural health incentives
- boosting more doctors in our regional GP surgeries and hospitals through the expansion of the single employer model which makes it easier for training rural doctors to maintain their employee benefits and training support between workplaces
- preparing to roll out health worker study subsidies for those working in regional and rural areas
- rolling out health worker accommodation
- delivering safe staffing levels in our hospitals, including in the bush.
Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said:
“Everyone should be able to access quality healthcare, no matter where they live, including in regional NSW.
“Our priority is to retain our existing paramedics while still delivering critical increase in paramedic numbers where they are needed most, in particular in rural and regional NSW.”
“We know that regional, rural and remote communities are grappling with significant workforce shortages, but we are focused on boosting, recruiting and retaining more health workers.
“We are embracing a comprehensive range of measures to do this.
“Investing in and supporting our frontline healthcare workers with an additional 500 paramedics is a core ministerial priority.
“I want to thank the Health Services Union for their advocacy and continued collaboration on this important structural reform.”
NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan said:
“The significant increase to the paramedic workforce will boost NSW Ambulance’s capacity to provide high quality care to patients across NSW.
“I look forward to welcoming these new paramedics to NSW Ambulance, where they will be able to build upon their skills learned in training to help their local communities.
“We have completed service demand and workforce planning to determine where these important roles will be allocated in regional and rural NSW.”