Month: August 2024

More than 300 residents from across the Central West region have participated in community engagement sessions that wrapped up in Eugowra, Molong and Cudal last week as part of the proposed Central West Resilient Homes Program.

The community engagement sessions, facilitated by the NSW Reconstruction Authority, were held across the Parkes, Forbes, Lachlan and Cabonne Shires over three weeks, giving residents the opportunity to view flood risk information, hear about proposed measures to make their homes more flood resilient and talk directly with flood experts about how new flood maps were developed.

The proposed Central West Resilient Homes Program is part of the $100 million Central West Recovery and Resilience Package that is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Residents were encouraged to share their feedback on the proposed approach for the Program, with many supporting measures that will help them minimise future flood damage to their property.

Support services, including Legal Aid, Red Cross, Lifeline and Catholic Care, were also on hand to help residents some of the more complex challenges many still face.

The Central West’s Resilient Homes Program aims to build stronger, safer communities with measures that help households most at risk from future floods by increasing the resilience of their home or removing residents from harm’s way.

Proposed measures include grants for a range of resilience measures, such as raising and retrofitting, home rebuilds and home relocations and a voluntary scheme to buy back properties in the highest flood risk zones.

Feedback from the community information sessions will be used to finalise the guidelines for the Program.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Senator Jenny McAllister said:

“The feedback from residents of the Central West is critical to ensuring we develop a program that moves families out of areas at high risk of increasingly frequent and intense severe weather events or enables residents to make their homes stronger.

“Community engagement is at the heart of our flood recovery efforts in the Central West, so I want to thank all those who went along and shared their stories.

“The Albanese and Minns Government will continue to listen to residents and work hand-in-hand with the community to achieve positive outcomes through the Resilient Homes Program, helping build community resilience while supporting people on their recovery journey.”

NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“The NSW Government is committed to delivering a program that meets the needs of the community, that’s why it’s important that we’ve heard from the community about the measures that are being proposed.

“Their feedback will help us deliver a program that is tailored to the needs of the Central West.

“I’ve said this before – this program is not about simple fixes – it’s about making a concerted effort to help communities in the Central West become more resilient and an acknowledgement that the NSW Government is standing with them for the long-term.”

NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:

“We’ve always said that community is at the centre of flood recovery in the Central West.

“The feedback we’ve received over the last three weeks has been invaluable and it will help confirm a program that will ultimately help people get back on with their lives faster after a flood. I know the Reconstruction Authority has been reaching out to residents who are still living with flood impacts to make sure they shape community support and help us to deliver a program that’s tailored to the needs of the Central West.

“I’d like to thank residents for participating in these sessions and for sharing their stories and experience which can be harrowing to relive.”

Member for Orange Phil Donato said:

“Nothing will ever undo the damage caused by the 2022 floods, but we can make sure that we’re better prepared for future disasters.

“Community information sessions are one way we can empower residents to have a say about a program that will have a profound effect on their future.

‘I’m not surprised to hear that where they can, people have a strong desire to stay in their homes using measures that will help them make their properties more resilient to floods.

“Make no mistake, this is a challenging process and the toll on our communities has been severe, but we’ve made sure that we’re listening to our people every step of the way.”

Construction on the $526.8 million major redevelopment of Ryde Hospital will officially get underway today.

Premier Chris Minns and Minister for Health Ryan Park will today join local health workers for a traditional sod turn event to mark the start of major works.

The redeveloped Ryde Hospital will include new and expanded facilities, including the emergency department, intensive care unit and operating theatres.

This will meet the future health needs of this growing community, with more than 180,000 people expected to call the Ryde area home by 2041.

The Minns Labor Government invested a further $47.8 million into the Ryde Hospital upgrade in the 2024-25 NSW Budget.

This redeveloped Ryde Hospital will feature:

• A new and expanded emergency department
• A new and expanded medical imaging department
• A new expanded and enhanced intensive care unit
• New expanded and enhanced operating theatres and procedure rooms
• More adult overnight inpatient beds
• A new purpose-built ambulatory care centre
• A new paediatric short stay unit
• Expanded and enhanced surgical/endoscopy day only spaces
• Clinical and non-clinical support services including pharmacy, pathology, food, linen and supply services
• Contemporary education, training and research to strengthen tertiary partnerships

The Minns Labor Government invested $3.4 billion to upgrade hospitals and health facilities across the state as part of the 2024-25 NSW Budget ensuring patients continue to receive high-quality care in their local community.

These investments form part of the Government’s comprehensive plan to deliver the long-term repair of healthcare across NSW.

After 12 years of neglect and a lack of investment in our health system, the Minns Labor Government is rebuilding this essential service we all rely on.

Construction works are being carried out by AW Edwards following the award of the building contract earlier this year. Construction activities will be managed to ensure the continued operation of the existing hospital while works are underway.

Works will include the demolition of old buildings, construction of new hospital buildings and refurbishment of existing hospital spaces.

The new hospital building is scheduled for completion in 2027, with the new main entry, demolition of former buildings and landscaping to take place in 2028.

To learn more about the Ryde Hospital Redevelopment visit: https://www.rydehospitalredevelopment.health.nsw.gov.au/

Premier Chris Minns:

“Today marks a milestone as we build a world-class hospital for the Ryde community.

“This project will boost capacity at the hospital and give people in the Ryde area the best possible care.

“This project will deliver a brand-new emergency department, intensive care unit and operating theatres.

“We are expanding this essential service to meet the needs of the Ryde community for years to come.”

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“This more than half a billion-dollar investment will deliver the healthcare that the growing community of Ryde needs now, and into the future.”

“The hospital redevelopment will transform the health facilities for Ryde and surrounding suburbs, ensuring people can get the care they need close to home and providing staff with a modern place to work.”

The search for the most inspiring and extraordinary women and girls in NSW has begun, with the opening of nominations for the NSW Women of the Year Awards 2025.

The search for the most inspiring and extraordinary women and girls in NSW has begun, with the opening of nominations for the NSW Women of the Year Awards 2025.

The annual awards program recognises and celebrates women and girls who inspire us with their actions, whether they are ground-breaking thinkers, everyday heroes, social reformers or innovative role models.

The 5 award categories include:

• Premier’s NSW Woman of Excellence
• NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year
• NSW Community Her
• NSW Regional Woman of the Year
• NSW Young Woman of the Year

Nominations have also opened for the Ones to Watch category, recognising 10 rising stars between the ages of 7 and 15. These exemplary girls will be highlighted for their courage, strength, determination and kindness to help and support those around them.

Successful 2024 Award recipients showcased the achievement of diverse and talented women and girls across NSW. They included Premier’s NSW Woman of Excellence Walkley Award winning journalist, advocate and public speaker Jess Hill, Aboriginal Woman of the Year Dr Casey Sullivan and Regional Woman of the Year Theresa Mitchell. 

For more information about all the 2024 recipients.

The recipients of the awards will be announced at the NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony on Thursday 6 March 2025 as part of NSW Women’s Week 2025 which will run from Sunday 2 March to Saturday 8 March.

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

“New South Wales has some of the state’s most exemplary women and girls, dedicating their hard work, skills and passion to advancing our community, industry and society.

“I am thrilled to launch nominations for 2025 NSW Women of the Year Awards today. This successful program is one of the most prestigious awards to recognise women and girls whose determination, bravery, skill and passion should be commended. It recognises and honours them with the appreciation they genuinely deserve.

“I encourage everyone to nominate a woman or girl in your life who is excelling in their fields and achieving incredible goals.”

Nominate now.

Goulburn and surrounding communities are now able to access non-emergency healthcare in a more timely way, and avoid unnecessary trips to the emergency department, with the opening of a new Urgent Care Service opening today.​

The Goulburn Urgent Care Service is now open 365 days a year, from 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 7pm Saturday and Sunday. It will be staffed by staffed by General Practitioners and nurses with important diagnostic services close by including radiology and pathology.

The service is well-supported to treat a range of illnesses and injuries that are urgent, but not life-threatening. This includes minor wounds needing stitches, suspected broken bones and skin infections.

Patients should call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 to access the service. A registered nurse will assess the patient’s condition and then discuss with the patient the best place for their care needs. This may include an appointment at the Goulburn Urgent Care Service, a telehealth appointment with the virtualKIDS or virtualGP services or escalating their care to other services like NSW Ambulance if required.

The Goulburn Urgent Care Service is being delivered in partnership with the Coordinare – South Eastern NSW Primary Health Network.

The Minns Labor Government is working to improve access to care and reduce wait times, through our emergency department relief package which will invest an additional $100 million to fund urgent care services for a further two years, providing a pathway to care outside of our hospitals for an estimated 114,000 patients once fully implemented.

Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park:

“Goulburn Urgent Care Service will provide the community with access to timely care for conditions which can be safely and effectively treated outside of the ED.”​

“Urgent care services just like this one, bridge the gap between primary care and emergency care, ensuring that patients have fast access to the care they need.”

“The best way to get access to our urgent care services if you’re feeling unwell or worried about symptoms is to call healthdirect anytime on 1800 022 222. A registered nurse will assess your condition and connect you with the care you need, whether an appointment at Goulburn urgent care service or virtual care. It means healthcare, anywhere, in the time it takes to make a phone call.”

Labor Spokesperson for Goulburn, Bob Nanva:

“I welcome this new service which will make a difference to people who live in Goulburn and surrounds.”

“It will improve access to care, reduce wait times and take pressure off our local hospitals.”

Coordinaire Chief Executive Officer Prudence Buist:

“We know this new service is needed in the Goulburn region and are committed to support more options for the community to see a healthcare professional when there is an urgent, but not life-threatening, need for care.”

“People should use Goulburn Urgent Care Service if they are unable to get an appointment with a local doctor for a health issue which should not be left untreated, including injuries and illnesses such as wounds, minor burns, and cuts requiring stitches, non-venomous bites, fractures and dislocations.”

The Minns Labor Government is continuing work to support the wellbeing of the people of New South Wales, with a Parliamentary Inquiry into the rising issue of loneliness across the state to begin this year.

Minister for Mental Health, Rose Jackson has written to Chair of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Social Issues, the Hon Dr. Sarah Kaine, to request the Committee undertake an Inquiry into Loneliness in New South Wales.

The first of its kind Inquiry in New South Wales, will:

• Examine the extent, causes and impacts of loneliness
• Review how other regions are addressing loneliness
• Assist in identifying those most at risk of social isolation in the state
• Identify steps for the NSW Government and community can take to reduce its prevalence and impacts

Loneliness occurs when a person experiences distress from greater levels of social disconnection than they desire. Whilst isolation or being alone does not necessarily mean a person is lonely, recent studies have highlighted loneliness as a growing experience.

In 2022, a Community Wellbeing Survey, by the Mental Health Commission found that nearly 40% of NSW residents experience loneliness at varying degrees, with those facing mental health challenges almost twice as likely to feel isolated.

Sydney has also been identified as the city with the most singles with 1.7 million Sydneysiders living alone or currently single.

Further, loneliness is not just an emotional burden, with studies highlighting its link to premature death, poor physical and mental health and increased psychological distress.

The Committee will work with mental health experts, advocates, and those with a lived experience of loneliness while undertaking this Inquiry.

Terms of Reference can be viewed here: https://bit.ly/3WScRrA

Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson:

“Loneliness is more than just an emotional experience; it has profound impacts on our mental and physical health. This inquiry will help us better understand the issue and pave the way for practical solutions to bring our communities closer together.

“With this NSW Government inquiry, we aim to delve deeper into loneliness, which has emerged as a significant public health issue following the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The NSW Government cares deeply about this issue, this inquiry shows our political leaders are sitting up, taking notice and want action to support people who might be struggling.

“While some people call loneliness the silent epidemic, it doesn’t have to be suffered in silence. If you are experiencing loneliness, please speak up and reach out—there are supports available across NSW.”

Sarah Kaine MLC, Chair of Loneliness Inquiry:

“The face of loneliness is often unexpected and touches many in our community. Almost everyone has felt alone at some point in their lives and I think it is important our political leaders are taking notice and taking action.

“I’m looking forward to hearing directly from experts and the community about what we can do better to support people who need support.”

Bran Black, Chief Executive Business Council of Australia:

“There is growing evidence that loneliness is having a measurable impact on our society and economy, and it is becoming increasingly important we examine ways to prevent people feeling isolated.

“Loneliness can cause many other conditions and this inquiry will assist in identifying what more can be done to address this growing problem, particularly in our workplaces and communities.”

Elisabeth Shaw, Chief Executive Officer of Relationships Australia – NSW:

“Humans are social beings. We vary in how much human contact we need, but we all need others to survive and thrive, emotionally and physically. Intimate or familial relationships, friends, neighbourhoods, workplaces and interest groups all play a part.

“You can be lonely due to lack of social connections, and you can be surrounded by others and feel deeply lonely. The ramifications of loneliness can be life threatening.

“Loneliness is an experience we all have from time to time. When it becomes chronic is can lead to further impoverishment in terms of identity, life experience, confidence, and can even shorten your lifespan.”

Martin Blake, Groundswell Foundation Chairman

“A growing body of evidence demonstrates how prevalent loneliness is in Australia and around the world – and its harmful consequences if left unaddressed. The impacts of loneliness are equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes or having six alcoholic drinks per day.

“Loneliness has a measurable economic impact – in Australia, the healthcare costs associated with loneliness are estimated at up to $2.7 billion each year in a 2021 report from Curtin University.”

The Minns Labor Government is pursuing innovative solutions to address the housing and homelessness crisis with the use of 3D printing to deliver more housing.

This groundbreaking method of construction aims to reduce costs and cut construction time by 50 percent and will be used to build the first social housing property of this type in New South Wales.

Housing affordability and availability are the biggest pressures facing the people of NSW. As social housing waitlists continue to soar, the implementation of this rapid construction method promises to significantly accelerate the delivery of desperately needed social and affordable homes across the state.

Construction is expected to be completed within 16 weeks, a stark contrast to the roughly 40 weeks required by traditional methods.

The NSW Government has engaged Aboriginal Sustainable Homes, who will work in partnership with Contour3D to harness 3D printing technology. Together, they will transform a vacant block of land in Dubbo into two two-bedroom duplexes, providing Aboriginal Housing Office tenants with a safe and secure place to call home.

3D printing produces significantly less waste, and the concrete mix uses eco-friendly, high-recycled materials to produce robust and energy-efficient homes with substantially reduced life cycle maintenance costs. This revolutionary technology heralds a new era in construction and could form part of the solution to provide homes sooner for people who need them most.

Construction of the first 3D printed social home in New South Wales is expected to commence in late September 2024.

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said:

“Using cutting edge technology for this project is a prime example of the NSW Government’s commitment to ‘think outside the box’ by exploring every possible option when it comes to delivering more housing for those who need it.

“Utilising Modern Methods of Construction like this 3D printing technology is critically important to delivering social and affordable homes sooner, especially in regional and remote areas.

“Our government is leading the way with this project. The construction of a 3D social housing property is the first of its kind in the country. For it to be led by the AHO reflects their dedication to exploring new and efficient ways of building more quality homes for community.

“The success of this project will help to determine whether this construction method becomes one of the many ways we can deliver more social housing right across the state in a bid to help us tackle the growing crisis.”

Member of the Legislative Council, Stephen Lawrence said:

“This trial by the state government of 3D printing of social housing is very exciting. The results will be carefully examined and used to guide future use of the technology where appropriate.

“It is entirely appropriate for the state government to trial the use of this technology for larger scale building such as houses, where there is substantial evidence to suggest the technology is appropriate and represents value for money.”

Dubbo Regional Council Mayor Mathew Dickerson said:

“Dubbo Regional Council is supportive of this project that is embracing new ways of construction with the objective to boost housing availability in our region.”

Managing Director of Aboriginal Sustainable Homes (ASH) Brad Draper said:

“ASH is delighted to be involved in this project and applaud the Aboriginal Housing Office (AHO) for pioneering new ways to deliver social housing. As an Aboriginal company, we are proud to deliver these quality homes that will have far-reaching benefits for residents long into the future.

“ASH has a strong track record in working with the AHO and we look forward to delivering another successful project for the local community.”

Founder and CEO of Contour3D Nick Holden said:

“We’re excited to showcase our innovative building method that prioritises sustainability, design freedom, and efficiency by bringing automation to the forefront of housing construction.”