Month: December 2024

Snowy Mountains Special Activation Precinct projects progressing

The Snowy Mountains Special Activation Precinct projects are progressing across Jindabyne including important works underway to enhance Barry Way road to deliver a new purpose fit approach for the new Jindabyne high and primary schools plus sport precinct.

The Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty and State Member of Parliament for Monaro Steven Whan were on-hand to inspect the progress of projects this week.

The Barry Way upgrades, which commenced in November this year include landscaping, levelling the road for safer driving, replacing utilities pipes and conduits, and a safer and easier drop off section for parents, children and staff when the new schools open in early 2025.

This complex road construction project is a priority and the Minns Labor Government stepped in to find the $47 million in funding when discovering the former Nationals/Liberal government had not funded the necessary road works for the new schools.

The $47 million commitment to enhancing Barry Way is in addition to the previously announced $196 million for the special activation precinct announced by Ministers Moriarity and Whan earlier in 2024. This increases the special activation precinct funding to a $242 million program of works for the Snowy Mountains.  

In addition to the Barry Way upgrade the projects announced in April 2024 by the Minns Labor Government have progressed as follows:

Foreshore design

  • The key elements of the foreshore design include a 3.5km shared user path upgraded between Banjo Patterson Park and Widows Creek, a new playground in the park, a pump track, improved lawn areas and improved drainage
  • Community consultation related to the foreshore design wrapped up in November and feedback will be considered, and the final design completed by mid-2025.

Bike precinct

  • This project will see 500 hectares of land within the Snowy Mountains precinct become home to a Mountain Bike Adventure Park
  • Planning work is underway and will inform what features, facilities and amenities the adventure park will include. Further details are expected to be announced by mid-2025.

Sewer and water

  • The Jindabyne wastewater treatment plan is being upgraded to increase capacity, to meet the long-term needs of the growing population, ensuring the future amenity needs of the community are met. The detailed design for the wastewater treatment plant is underway.
  • A new water treatment plant will be constructed to ensure compliance with drinking water standards. The project is currently in the concept design phase, with a construction tender expected to be issued in 2025.

Electrical upgrades

  • The scope of the electrical upgrades is being finalised, these upgrades will future proof the precinct and provide reliable electrical supply to the growing Jindabyne community.

Land development

  • Planning work is underway that will inform how the staged release of land will be rolled out to support a diverse mix of housing.

NSW Public Works has been engaged to lead the delivery of the water and sewer projects across the precinct. NSW Public Works are well equipped to plan and deliver water supply and wastewater infrastructure that meets the Council’s and community needs and protects public health and the environment.

The Snowy Mountains precinct is also facilitating the supply of a diverse mix of housing to benefit the community, support workers and the transition to a year-round economy.  

For more information: www.nsw.gov.au/snowySAP.

Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW and Western NSW Tara Moriarty said:

“The Snowy Mountains special activation precinct is playing an important role in creating long-term economic prosperity in the region and I am pleased to expand the precinct commitment by $47 million to include important upgrades to Barry Way around the new school precinct.”

“These projects are progressing but there is more to be done and I am ensuring this happens appropriately and in a timely manner.

“The water and sewerage works, the foreshore design plus bike precinct and opening further housing development are important for a future Snowy economy and our Government is keen to see it underway.”

Member for Monaro Steve Whan

“When I was elected, I told the electorate that my focus would be on the essentials. Essentials which were neglected by the previous government when considering how Jindabyne and the Snowy Mountains area is growing.

“Now that public consultation is closed, design works are progressing on the foreshore design, roadworks are underway to finish the Jindabyne School Precinct, and a new sewerage and water treatment plant will help ensure the town’s growth is sustainable.

“There is more work to be done, and I will keep the region updated and time goes on.”

Ballina Hot Meal Centre funded for another year

The NSW Government will donate $25,000 in funding support for the Ballina Hot Meal Centre from the Premier’s Discretionary Fund.

The Ballina Hot Meal Centre has been serving hot meals to people who are sleeping rough and other vulnerable people in Ballina Shire for over 27 years.

The Ballina Hot Meal Centre has only seen an increase in demand for its sit-down, take-away, and meals-on-wheels service for the most vulnerable in the community with 600 meals prepared by a purely volunteer staffed service across the 2 days per week it is open.

Premier of NSW Chris Minns said:

“We know people are doing it tough and now more than ever, organisations like the Ballina Hot Meal Centre are a lifeline in our regional communities.

“I’m pleased to provide the hard-working volunteers with this funding so they can continue serving hundreds of meals each week, making life a little easier for those who may be struggling or need some extra support.”

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said:

“Providing this service for nearly 30 years relying solely on donations is a testament to the spirit of the volunteers at the Ballina Hot Meal Centre and the generosity of the Ballina community.

“I was grateful to meet with Dawn and the volunteers who provide not only a meal but a friendly face, offering comfort and support to those who need it most.”

Member for Ballina Tamara Smith said:

“Incredible and selfless volunteers have been running Ballina’s only soup kitchen for nearly 3 decades without government assistance. As well as the amazing local businesses that donate food and money, our community stepped up where previous governments did not deliver.

“I am very grateful to the Premier Chris Minns for his humane response to the funding needs of the service, and for recognising the incredible work that this community run organisation is doing to improve vulnerable people’s lives. This funding not only keeps the centre open for another year but it lifts the morale of the volunteers who keep it going.

“I would like to thank the volunteers and every person and organisation that have donated over many years and who have not given up on this service – the only organisation that remained open and provided meals to people in our community throughout COVID 19. The volunteers, most of whom were vulnerable and at risk of infection themselves, did not step down but instead modified their service delivery to provide takeaway meals.

“Today’s announcement recognises the unbelievable effort of volunteers in our community who have fundraised every year, volunteered to collect and cook and serve meals every year, and kept going. You are absolute heroes in my eyes and in the eyes of our community.”

General Manager of Ballina Hot Meal Centre, Dawn Sword said:

“The Ballina Hot Meal Centre is operated and run entirely by volunteers, some who have been here since its inception, and all of whom help provide a warm and welcoming environment where they feed those in need not just with food but with kindness and hope.

“We are so grateful for the continual support and advocacy from our local Member Tamara Smith MP who has helped us to secure this much needed funding from the Premier, and thank his representative Minister Hoenig for joining us today.

“Without this funding it would have been a struggle to keep our doors and kitchen open to continue servicing the community at a time when it is most needed.”

South Coast in spotlight as international trade mission kicks off

The Minns Labor Government is continuing work to safeguard the future of regional New South Wales, with a three-day international trade mission commencing in the South Coast showcasing all the region has to offer.

International delegates from 13 countries are attending the South Coast trade mission, which will focus on the region’s emerging industries which present investment, trade and industry development opportunities.

As the state’s economy grows and changes into the future, building enduring partnerships with international investors and exploring new opportunities for local industries in global markets is vital.

This mission will give the delegates a firsthand experience of the innovation, trade, investment and collaboration opportunities regional New South Wales has to offer.

Representatives from Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Switzerland and the United Kingdom are visiting Eden, Merimbula, Bega, Moruya, Broulee and Batemans Bay.

The trip include meeting with local industry leaders such as the Alkath Group, Bega Cheese, Broulee Brewery, Australia’s Oyster Coast, and Sea Urchin Harvest.

Delegates will learn more about how South Coast businesses such as Recycling Technologies Group in Eden are reducing landfill from metal and timber manufacturing by turning the waste into a new, viable energy source.

They will also have the chance to soak up the scenery and learn more about the rich Aboriginal heritage of Killalea Regional Park, Jigamy Farm and Snug Cove.

The trade mission is part of the NSW Government’s Regional Investment Activation Program, which aims to drive growth, create jobs, and promote investment in regional NSW.

To date, the initiative has supported five trade missions in NSW in regional locations such as the Hunter, Riverina and Central West.

Minister for the Illawarra & South Coast Ryan Park said:

“The South Coast is a hub of industry and natural abundance and I’m so proud we have an opportunity to showcase this to international markets.”

Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“We are saying very clearly to the global community – Regional New South Wales is open for business!

“As well as the South Coast of NSW being a stunningly beautiful place to visit, the region is a hub of opportunity and has so much to offer in terms of established and emerging industries.

“There is no substitute for first-hand experience, and I am delighted that the Consuls-General will have a chance to get outside of the metropolitan areas and get an authentic understanding of this region’s economic strengths in person.

“This trade mission is putting regional NSW front and centre for global investors to help us open the door to new opportunities, create jobs, and drive growth in our regions.”

Minister for Industry and Trade, Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“Diversifying our state’s trade offerings is central to the Minns Labor Government’s plan for our trade economy.

“Showcasing local South Coast businesses to representatives from major international markets including China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom, is not only an opportunity for the local economy but increases the profile of NSW across the globe.

“This is another great example of the Minns Labor Government creating real international trade opportunities for local businesses.”

State Member for South Coast, Liza Butler said:

“The South Coast is a region of unparalleled natural beauty and innovation, making it an incredible destination for global business and investment and I welcome the delegates to the region.  

“It is exciting that the delegates will visit Huskisson to launch the NSW Government’s Seaweed Prospectus at PhycoHealth, a local business that specialises in sustainable seaweed products.  The seaweed industry not only drives innovation but also reinforces our commitment to environmentally sustainable practices.

“This trade mission is a testament to the unique opportunities our industries on the South Coast have to offer; from world-class aquaculture to groundbreaking clean tech advancements.”

State Member for Bega, Michael Holland said:

“I am pleased to welcome the international trade mission to the beautiful Bega electorate.

This is a wonderful opportunity to share the best of the Far South Coast’s primary production from our dairy products to the world’s best oyster industry.

Our visitors will experience the Eurobodalla and the Bega Valley’s hospitality as well as witnessing innovative manufacturing and tourism industries.”

New Mariyung fleet welcomes first passengers onboard

Newcastle and Central Coast passengers were the first to enjoy Sydney Trains’ new Mariyung train which rolled out of Newcastle Interchange today on its first ever passenger service.

The first Mariyung Train to carry passengers began its journey from Newcastle Interchange to Sydney Terminal at 8:21am, stopping at 20 stations, including Hamilton, Broadmeadow, Cardiff, Fassifern, Morisset, Wyee, Warnervale, Wyong, Tuggerah, Gosford, Point Clare, Tascott, Koolewong, Woy Woy, Berowra, Hornsby, Epping, Strathfield, before arriving at Sydney Terminal.

The first new intercity trains in almost two decades will provide the millions of train passengers who travel on the Newcastle and the Central Coast line each year with an unmatched level of comfort.

Passengers will enjoy a much quieter journey with modern air-conditioning, dedicated luggage spaces, and easier to read information screens as well as enhanced safety, improved accessibility and more spacious and comfortable seating.

Closed-circuit television systems throughout the new trains will enhance the safety and security of passengers and staff and help deter anti-social and criminal activity.

The older trains have been a hotspot for trespassers, graffiti vandals and other antisocial behaviors but the Mariyung will house the latest in-train surveillance.

Last year, more than 12.7 million trips were taken along the Central Coast and Newcastle Line, and it’s hoped the much-anticipated new fleet will boost patronage.

The new state-of-the-art 610-carriage fleet offers two-by-two seating for extra room with tray tables, arm rests, high seat backs and charging ports for mobile devices.

The Mariyung also offers the highest level of accessibility across the Sydney Trains fleet, with designated spaces for wheelchairs, bikes, prams and accessible toilets.

The locally modified Mariyung trains will progressively enter service on the Central Coast and Newcastle line over the coming months before it is rolled out on the Blue Mountains Line, and the South Coast Line.

They will also will progressively replace older fleets including the V-sets, that were first introduced to NSW in the 1970s and the Oscar trains that debuted in 2006.

The express service will stop at 20 stations between Newcastle and Central Station initially, with an all-stations service available next year, as more trains progressively enter service.

Named after the Darug word for Emu, the Mariyung can operate in 4-car, 6-car, 8-car or 10-car configurations, and seat more than 820 passengers in a 10-carriage train.

Modifications to the Mariyung fleet have been undertaken locally after an agreement with the Rail Tram and Bus Union in August 2023.

Modifications include relocation of CCTV viewing screens and passenger door controls, changes to the digital radio system, adjustments to fire detection management and fire-resistant materials, and emergency door release functions.

Modifications have also been made within the rail corridor to support the changes made to the Mariyung fleet operating model, including station platform extensions, relocation of train stopping markers, signaling equipment and overhead wiring structures.

Minister for Transport, Jo Haylen said:

“It should have never taken this long but the wait is finally over. Passengers on the Newcastle and the Central Coast line can finally enjoy the Mariyung trains.

“I’m so glad to be able to join passengers and our staff to welcome the first Mariyung service to Sydney. These trains will deliver for the communities on the Hunter and Central Coast Line for decades now that we have finally been able to get them on the tracks.

“These state-of-the-art trains will make travel between Sydney and our regional cities safer and more comfortable. Passengers on the Hunter and Central Coast Line will be the first to get them, but they will be coming to the Blue Mountains and the Illawarra and South Coast too.”

“These trains were supposed to be on the tracks 5 years ago. It’s been a priority of mine to ensure that we got them out of sheds and on the tracks by the end of this year. I’m incredibly proud that our Government has been able to deliver that.”

Minister for Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison said:

“These new trains will provide a new level of comfort and convenience to Hunter locals and I’m pleased passengers on the Newcastle Central Coast Line, who had been travelling on the oldest trains around, will now benefit from better services.

“As the roll out of more new trains continues in the new year, I know Blue Mountains, Illawarra and South Coast passengers are looking forward to enjoying the benefits next.”

Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley said:

“This train isn’t just about getting from A to B – it’s about strengthening community ties, creating opportunities, and supporting the Hunter’s growth.”

“Reliable, safe, and accessible transport is the backbone of a thriving community, and this new service is a commitment to keeping the Hunter region moving forward.”

“When communities are connected, they prosper – and this train is a big win for the Hunter, its residents, and its future.”

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said:

“It’s fantastic that after four years the new Mariyung trains have hit the tracks to serve the Central Coast Community.

“The beloved V Sets, some that have been in service since 1977, are being retired and replaced by modern intercity trains. The V Sets have served our community well, but unfortunately, they are well past their economic use by date”

Parliamentary Secretary for Disability Inclusion, Liesl Tesch said:

“As a train buff, this is an extremely exciting day! These brand new trains are comfortable and more accessible than the trains they replace. There’s dedicated space for wheelchairs, big accessible toilets and clear audio and visual announcements about upcoming stations. An added bonus is I’ll even be able to charge my phone on the way to Sydney!”

Member for Charlestown, Jodie Harrison said:

“I’ve seen these trains out on the line testing, and it’s exciting to see them finally carrying passengers! I can’t wait to see everyone jump on board and take these trains for a test ride.

“In addition, design work is also underway to upgrade Kotara Station and make it fully accessible, which will make access to these trains even easier for everyone in the future.”

Member for the Entrance, David Mehan said:

“We’ve seen a fantastic upgrade at Tuggerah Station, and now our trains are getting a brilliant upgrade too. I’m so pleased the New Intercity Fleet is finally out of storage and on the tracks.”

Member for Wallsend, Sonia Hornery said:

“I am glad to see that Wallsend residents will be getting to and from Sydney in style aboard the new train. The older models have served us well, but it’s time for a refresh.”

“It’s good to see that these new trains will be more accessible than previous models, helping Wallsend locals living with disability to travel more easily.”

Member for Newcastle, Tim Crakanthorp said:

“It’s great to see that these trains are now on the tracks after years of delay. The upgraded fleets will make travelling a much more pleasant experience for Novocastrians.

“The modifications will enable a much safer and more accessible journey for everyone.”

Member for Lake Macquarie, Greg Piper said:

“The new trains on the Newcastle Central Coast line will make commuting safer and help growing regional cities, including Lake Macquarie, to thrive.”

Chief Executive of Sydney Trains Matt Longland said:

“Today is an exciting chapter for our staff and customers and especially those passengers travelling to and from Sydney on the Central Coast and Newcastle Line.

“The Mariyung trains are quieter and roomier and will provide our passengers with a much improved and more comfortable travelling experience for decades to come.”

“This project has been incredibly complex, but we are pleased we have been able to work with the unions to locally modify these trains and get them into service.”

Government’s response to the Final Report of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran suicide

The Albanese Government has today released its response to the Final Report of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, setting out a plan for real, meaningful and enduring reform for Defence personnel, veterans and families.

The Royal Commission was the most significant and comprehensive inquiry conducted into suicide and suicidality in Defence and veteran communities. It heard harrowing evidence about the cultural problems within the Australian Defence Force (ADF) over time and identified deficiencies with the approach, services and support of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).

The Albanese Government has accepted the overwhelming majority of the Royal Commission’s 122 recommendations: agreeing or agreeing-in-principle to 104 recommendations, noting 17 recommendations for further consideration and one recommendation is not supported in part.

Implementing this response will result in the most comprehensive reform ever undertaken to the culture, systems and processes across Defence, the ADF and DVA to prevent suicide and improve the mental health and wellbeing of serving personnel and veterans.

Consistent with key recommendations of the Royal Commission, the Government will:

  • Establish a new statutory entity to oversee enduring and systemic reform. This entity will provide independent oversight and evidence-based advice to improve suicide prevention, and drive better outcomes for serving and ex-serving ADF personnel.
    • An interim head will be appointed as soon as possible to work across government towards the establishment of a legislated oversight body by September 2025.
  • Establish a Taskforce in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet which will draw in expertise from across Government as well as external experts to consider matters of detailed implementation.
  • Direct DVA to co-design, with the veteran community, a new agency focused on wellbeing to be established within DVA. This body will be focused on consultation and co-design with Defence and veteran communities, and their families, to ensure the agency meets their needs.
  • Fund DVA to continue consultation on the development of a national ex-service organisation peak body.

These reforms will be rolled out together with the implementation of the National Defence Strategy, to ensure that Defence’s most important capability – its people – receive the support and services they deserve as they work to keep Australians safe.

Work already underway

In August 2022, the Royal Commission’s Interim Report was delivered to Government, and we took swift action on all of its recommendations.

The reforms set out today build on the work already completed in response to the Interim Report, as well as the extensive work across Defence and DVA that commenced from the moment the Albanese Government took office, including:

  • Fully funding the Government’s response to the Royal Commission’s Interim Report, including $233.9 million to engage 500 new frontline staff at DVA to eliminate the compensation claims backlog, delivering on a key election commitment made by the Government.
  • Undertaking extensive consultation to develop legislation to simplify and harmonise the veteran compensation system. Legislation was introduced to the Parliament 3 July 2024.
  • Investing $254.1 million over four years to modernise and sustain DVA’s ageing IT systems to ensure more timely payments and better access to services for veterans and families.
  • In June 2023, the Government appointed the first three star Chief of Personnel who reports directly to the Chief of the Defence Force to drive systemic reform across the ADF.
  • Expanding and improving allowances, conditions of services and entitlements for serving ADF personnel and their families.
  • Investing more than $600 million to implement the 2024 Defence Workforce Plan and grow the ADF to deliver an integrated, focused force.

The implementation of the Government’s response to the Final Report of the Royal Commission will see the most comprehensive reform to the systems, processes and culture supporting Defence personnel and veterans ever undertaken in Australia.

Whilst this is a large and complex task, these reforms will ensure those who pursue a career in the ADF are supported from the time they join, throughout transition and in life after service. 

The establishment of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide would not have occurred without those families who have lost loved ones, and advocates such as Senator Lambie. The Government thanks all those who bravely came forward to share their stories and give evidence to the Royal Commission. Their courage has made an enormous difference.

The Government’s full response to the Royal Commission is available on the Defence and DVA websites.

Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese:

“We have lost too many lives, and every single one is heartbreaking. Today I want to acknowledge every family and friend grieving the loss of a loved one.

“We called for this Royal Commission in Opposition and we supported it in Government.

“Today’s response to the Final Report of the Royal Commission is an historic opportunity to deliver lasting reform and support our Defence personnel, veterans and their families.”

Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles:

“The death by suicide of any Australian, including veterans and serving Defence personnel, is a national tragedy. Implementing the Royal Commission’s recommendations is not a simple task, but it is essential.

“The Albanese Government’s Response to the Final Report of the Royal Commission is our plan for systemic and enduring reform to make sure we are supporting our Defence and veteran communities.”

the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, Matt Keogh: 

“We thank all those who came forward and bravely told their story to the Royal Commission. Your courage and the Royal Commission’s work directs the necessary change needed to save lives.

“The Government’s response to the Royal Commission will deliver changes in Defence and DVA that will improve the lives of serving personnel, veterans and families today and into the future.”

Final Chinese trade impediments on red meat establishments lifted

The Albanese Labor Government welcomes China lifting the remaining suspensions on two Australian meat processing establishments, paving the way for full resumption of red meat exports to China.

This development follows the lifting of suspensions on eight beef processing facilities over the past year.

The Government has consistently advocated for the final two establishments in Queensland to be able to resume exports into China.

China is the second largest market for Australian beef and veal after the United States. The removal today of the final two suspensions marks a return to business as usual for beef and veal exports, which topped $2.2 billion in 2023-24.

Today’s announcement follows forecasts that Australia’s red meat exports are set to break records in 2024–25.

The boost of red meat exports is forecast to push the overall value of agriculture, fisheries and forestry to $94.3 billion, the second highest on record, according to the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences. 

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

“This is great news for Australian exporters, producers and farmers.

“Since we were elected we’ve worked tirelessly to resume trade and that’s exactly what we are seeing.

“It’s a win for trade and a win for Australian jobs – something my Government will always back.”

Foreign Minister, Penny Wong

“The removal of all impediments on Australian beef exports to China affirms the calm and consistent approach taken by the Albanese Labor Government.

“The Government will continue to support Australian businesses to sell their world-class products on the global stage, including through efforts to diversify and expand trade markets.”

Minister for Trade and Tourism, Don Farrell

“We are close to the point where China’s trade impediments which impacted $20 billion worth of Australian exports have all been removed.

“The removal of trade impediments has not only saved, but also created thousands of new jobs in Australia.

“Beef producers in Queensland, wine makers in South Australia, and barley growers in Western Australia, have all benefited from this Government’s steady hand on the trade tiller.”

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP

“I welcome today’s news by China and thank our red meat industry and Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry officials who have worked so hard to get this outcome. 

“Concerted engagement and advocacy with our largest trading partner have been rewarded with the lifting of suspensions on all Australian meat export facilities in the past 12 months.  

“In 2023-24, Australia exported over 70 per cent of its agricultural, fisheries and forestry production to 169 markets globally – the most diversified trade has ever been. This is thanks to our Government.”

Fatal three-vehicle crash – Muswellbrook

A man has died following a three-vehicle crash in the state’s Upper Hunter.

Just before 12am today (Wednesday 4 December 2024), emergency services were called to the New England Highway, Liddell, following reports of a crash.

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District attended and found two cars had collided, with a truck later hitting the vehicles.

The male driver of a green sedan, age unknown, died at the scene.

He is yet to be formally identified.

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

The female driver of a silver sedan, aged 22, was trapped for a short time before being freed by Fire and Rescue NSW.

She was treated at the scene before being airlifted to John Hunter Hospital in a serious condition.

The male driver of the truck, believed to be aged in his 40s, was uninjured, and taken to Muswellbrook Hospital for mandatory testing.

A crime scene has been established, and investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash has commenced.

The New England Highway is closed in both directions near Pikes Gully Road at Liddell. Diversions are in place. Updates are available on www.livetraffic.com.

Reappeal to locate missing man – Muswellbrook

Police are extending their appeal to locate a man missing from state’s Hunter Region.

Gavin Moresby-White, aged 68, was last seen on Greg Stairs Road, Gungal – 50km west of Muswellbrook – about 10.30am on Tuesday (29 October 2024).

When concerns were raised for his welfare on Friday 15 November 2024, officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Despite extensive inquiries including a multi-agency search, with assistance from PolAir, Dog Unit, NSW Ambulance Rescue and NSW SES, in Gungal, Denman and Merriwa areas, which concluded on Thursday (21 November 2024), Gavin was still unable to be located or contacted.

Gavin is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 170cm tall with medium build, and balding with white hair.

He is known to drive a Toyota Camry with QLD plates 859MHT, which was found by police on Greg Stairs Road, Gungal.

Anyone with information into his whereabouts or dashcam footage is urged to call Hunter Valley police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Greens Election Announcement: Disability Leadership

Ahead of International Day of People with Disability (Tuesday 3rd December 2024) Jordon Steele-John, Australian Greens Senator for WA has today announced a $200m package to support the leadership of disabled people across Australia.

The United Nations has announced the theme for International Day of People with Disability as “amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future.” The Australian Greens plan will enable disabled people to lead at a local and Federal level. 

The Greens have today announced: 

  • Establishment of a $5m Election Access Fund; to support disabled people to inclusively contest Federal Elections.
     
  • A $150m grants program to fund Disability Pride Events across the country; to support community-led events that focus on inclusion, reclaiming disability identity and building a sense of pride.
     
  • Sustainable resourcing for disability advocacy organisations; an additional $50m to enable organisations to support disabled people through the NDIS, health systems, legal systems and other areas of their lives. 

Jordon Steele-John, Australia’s first physically disabled Senator:

“This year has been particularly rough for disabled people across Australia. We have seen the major parties join together to cut billions of dollars from our NDIS, there has been limited action on the recommendations of the Disability Royal Commission and the cost of living crisis has been hitting hard with a lack of accessible and affordable housing options, no meaningful increase to the disability support pension, and high prices at the supermarket check-out, along with the rising cost of healthcare. Disabled people are doing it tough.”

“As the only proudly physically disabled person in the Federal Parliament, I see first hand that major party politicians simply do not understand what our disability community needs. The only way we’re going to get better outcomes is to get more disabled people elected to the Federal Parliament. We know that our political systems are inherently ableist, and there are additional cost barriers in the way of contesting an election. That’s why the Greens are committed to the establishment of a $5m Election Access Fund, similar to one the program that New Zealand Electoral Commission runs.“

“At a time where more disabled people than ever are bearing the brunt of inadequate government systems, disability advocacy organisations are operating with inadequate and unsustainable funding. This is leaving disabled people without adequate support. The Greens have announced an additional $50m for organisations who are supporting people with individual advocacy and lobbying for systemic advocacy.”

“So many of the events designed to bring together the disability community are funded by big-corporations who profit directly from disabled people. We deserve events that are community-led and truly build disability pride. That’s why I am proud that the Greens are committed to launching a $150m grants program to enable events to be run across the country that focus on inclusion, reclaiming disability identity and building a sense of pride. It’s through events like these that we can build leadership skills, have a good time, and build our power.”

PREMIER MUST CALL OFF THE DOGS AS FIRST FESTIVAL WITH PILL TESTING ANNOUNCED

The Victorian Greens have called on the Premier to ensure that police sniffer dog squads are not present during the summer festival season, as it’s announced that Beyond the Valley will be the first festival with life-saving pill testing services. 

The Police Commissioner confirmed that sniffer dogs would be expected to operate alongside pill testing at festivals, following a line of questioning from the Greens at the Public Accounts and Estimates Committee (PAEC) hearings last week.

The Victorian Greens spokesperson for drug harm reduction, Aiv Puglielli says that festival-goers deserve clarity and reassurance that they’re not going to be targeted by police and sniffer dogs for using a life saving health service. 

The Victorian Greens Drug Harm Reduction spokesperson, Aiv Puglielli: 

“The Summer festival season is just around the corner and we know that we need pill testing up and running in order to save lives. 

“For pill testing to work, festival goers need confidence to use this life saving service without fear of being targeted by police and sniffer dogs. 

“The Premier needs to pick up the phone to the Police Commissioner and ensure young people and festival goers have clarity and reassurance about how police will be interacting with pill testing and the people using the service. 

“We know that people are likely to drop all their drugs at once when they see sniffer dogs. That is not safe. 

“Sniffer dogs do not save lives, pill testing does.”