Driver arrested following alleged pursuit – Hunter Valley

A man has been arrested following an alleged pursuit between the Hunter Valley and Sydney this afternoon.

About 12.20pm (Monday 2 November 2026), Highway Patrol officers attempted to stop a hatchback on Wine Country Drive at North Rothbury.

When the driver allegedly failed to stop as directed, a pursuit was initiated.

The pursuit continued south to the M1 towards Sydney’s Hills District where the pursuit was terminated.

The hatchback returned to the M1 a short time later and commenced driving northbound towards Newcastle.

With the assistance of PolAir, the hatchback was monitored as it continued north along stretches of the Old Pacific Highway and the M1.

About 3.05pm, road spikes were successfully deployed near George Booth Drive at West Wallsend.

The driver, a 20-year-old Hunter Valley man, was arrested a short time later.

He was taken to Toronto Police Station where inquiries are ongoing.

ITF INSPECTORATE CONDEMNS NEWCASTLE COAL TERMINALS OVER OBSTRUCTION OF SEAFARER INSPECTIONS

Two ships linked to a sham seafarers’ union have raised serious concerns for crew welfare in Newcastle, with inspectors facing obstruction by port managers.

The KIBO (IMO 9719331), berthed at a Port of Newcastle berth, was detained for 10 days at its previous port of call in Ghent, Belgium, after 21 deficiencies were identified. ITF inspectors have visited the vessel to assess crew welfare and establish whether those deficiencies have been properly rectified.

Meanwhile, the PROLIN (IMO 9853058) bulk carrier, alongside at the Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group (NCIG) coal terminal, has also attracted serious concern from the ITF Inspectorate because of its links to the International Seafarers’ Union (ISU), a fake union that the ITF says is associated with the use of sham workplace agreements to undermine international seafarers’ wages and conditions.

While Port of Newcastle facilitated the snap inspections of KIBO, NCIG management refused access to ITF inspectors seeking to inspect the PROLIN and assess the welfare of its crew. On the same day, the inspector was also denied an inspection on another ship at the Port Waratah Coal Service (PWCS) berth. The refusal raises serious questions about why two coal terminal operators would prevent independent inspectors from checking on workers aboard a vessel where there are concerns about their employment arrangements and welfare.

ITF Inspector Dan Crumlin said the actions of port and terminal operators must not be allowed to undermine the protection of vulnerable seafarers.

“The commercial interests of coal exporters and shipowners must never be allowed to obstruct efforts to protect seafarers from unsafe conditions, exploitation and mistreatment,” Mr Crumlin said.

The ITF says the KIBO and PROLIN are linked to the ISU, which it alleges operates in conjunction with Lanibra, a private shipowners’ agency offering services designed to sideline genuine trade unions.

According to the ITF, these arrangements use sham agreements to drive down wages, degrade working conditions and strip seafarers of protections secured through legitimate collective bargaining. The consequences can be particularly severe for international seafarers who depend on their employment for their livelihood and have limited practical ability to challenge their employer while at sea.

Matt Purcell, who is leading the ITF’s campaign against the ISU-Lanibra arrangements, said sham unions exploit the vulnerability of seafarers by creating the appearance of representation while removing the protections that genuine unions fight to secure.

“A union is supposed to give workers a collective voice and the power to stand up to their employer. A sham union turns that principle on its head. It gives shipowners a way to present an exploitative employment arrangement as legitimate while workers are left with lower wages, worse conditions and fewer protections,” Mr Purcell said.

The ITF Inspectorate’s October intensive inspection campaign is targeting vessels across Australian ports to identify substandard employment arrangements, investigate crew welfare concerns and ensure shipowners meet their obligations to seafarers.

The circumstances also recall the COSTANZA, which was arrested and subsequently banned from Australian waters following ITF Inspectorate intervention in Newcastle two years ago. That case demonstrated the importance of independent inspections in exposing serious concerns involving foreign-flagged vessels and protecting seafarers from exploitation.

The ITF Inspectorate has written to the KIBO’s charterer, warning of the risks that the crew transporting its cargo may be experiencing exploitation or mistreatment.

Local MUA branch secretary Glen Williams backed in the ITF Inspectorate’s demands. “Ship charterers and port operators like NCIG and PWCS can’t wash their hands of responsibility for the conditions under which their cargo is transported. We are trying to stamp out modern slavery in the supply chain while these Australian companies help perpetrators sweep it under the rug,” Mr Williams said.

The ITF Inspectorate is calling on NCIG and PWCS management to explain their refusals to grant inspectors access to ships berthed at their wharves. Both Newcastle coal terminal operators must ensure inspectors can carry out their work without further obstruction.

G20 and Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting

This week I will attend meetings of the G20 and Quad foreign ministers in Atlanta, United States.

The meetings come as the conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt global energy supplies and drive up fuel prices, with flow-on effects for the cost of food and other essentials.

Through the G20, Australia works with major global economies to strengthen economic resilience, support sustainable growth, and advance peace and security.

This week, we will focus on pressing global challenges, including threats to energy security and global supply chains.

Protecting the free flow of international trade is part of that effort. Australia has joined the European Union-led `No Fees/No Tolls’ pledge, opposing unlawful fees and tolls that would undermine freedom of navigation and set a dangerous precedent for international shipping.

I will advocate for these principles in my discussions with international counterparts during the visit.

I will also meet with counterparts from the United States, India and Japan for the third Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting this year.

Together, we will advance practical cooperation on regional security, maritime security and economic resilience in support of a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

Quad Joint Press Release on Economic Prosperity and Security

The text of the following statement was released by the Secretary of State of the United States, the Foreign Minister of Australia, the External Affairs Minister of India, and the Foreign Minister of Japan.

The Secretary of State of the United States and the Foreign Ministers of Australia, India, and Japan met in Atlanta, Georgia, on October 31, 2026, to discuss progress on ongoing Quad initiatives and reaffirm their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The Quad ministers underscored the importance of economic security in maintaining global stability and prosperity. They reiterated their commitment to building reliable and open global supply chains and trusted and resilient infrastructure. They expressed grave concerns regarding economic coercion, including through arbitrary export restrictions, as well as non-market policies and practices that result in overcapacity to disrupt global supply chains in critical industries. Recognizing the importance of critical sea lanes, the uninterrupted flow of commerce, energy security, and the unhindered passage and safety of maritime crews and vessels without the imposition of tolls, they reiterated the absolute necessity to protect and preserve navigational rights and freedoms in the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea, and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait in accordance with international law as reflected in UNCLOS.

The Quad ministers highlighted the importance of Super Intelligence (SI)* and initiatives like Pax Silica to the future of economic growth and expressed their intent to provide over $85 million of technical and financial assistance to support access to trusted SI across the Indo-Pacific, including through the Quad SI Accelerator.

The Quad ministers expressed their deep concern about the proliferation of online and cyber scams that pose a threat to national and international peace and security. They condemned the criminal groups running the scam operations and trafficking people and forcing them to defraud our citizens, stealing tens of billions of dollars annually of hard-earned wealth from our respective countries. The Quad countries committed to dismantling these operations and holding transnational criminal groups and their leaders accountable.

The Quad ministers expressed their condolences for those who lost their lives during the flash floods of August 26, 2026, and underscored their shared commitment to supporting partners in times of need.  They recognized India’s leading role as the first responder to Nepal’s rescue, along with the significant support to Nepal from all Quad countries.

The Quad ministers welcomed progress on key initiatives bolstering the prosperity of the Indo-Pacific, including:

Economic Prosperity and Security

  • Securing Critical Minerals Supply Chains:  Under the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative Framework announced in May 2026, Quad countries have strengthened their cooperation on critical mineral supply chains, working together to recover critical minerals from electronics waste and scrap materials to reduce reliance on any single supplier.  They welcomed private sector-led investment in waste collection networks, processing plants, and refineries, and work with Quad countries to establish trusted critical minerals recycling value chains.  They welcomed the U.S. commitment to provide $10 million to promote infrastructure and facilities in India and ASEAN countries that recover critical minerals from waste.  Quad countries look forward to exploring streamlining export and import procedures to facilitate the transboundary movement of recyclable materials and strengthen the implementation of existing regulations.
  • Supporting Energy Security in the Indo-Pacific: In September, the Quad convened the first-ever Quad Fuel Security Forum and discussed our commitment to advancing fuel security in the Indo-Pacific, including by strengthening their respective strategic petroleum reserves and stockholdings.
  • Advancing Ports Infrastructure in Fiji: Quad countries are actively working with the Government of Fiji on infrastructure modernization projects for key ports at Suva, Lautoka, and Rokobili. This includes through the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation, which is supporting Fiji in developing a Port Strategic Development Framework, and the Government of Australia, which is assessing the feasibility of a new transshipment port facility.
  • Building Infrastructure Capability Across the Indo-Pacific: To date, Quad countries have provided more than 2000 infrastructure fellowships across the Pacific, Southeast Asia, and South Asia providing critical skills to Indo-Pacific nations to support a stronger and more resilient region.
  • Advancing Commercial Diplomacy: The Quad ministers announced the first-ever Quad Business Leaders’ Forum that will convene industry leaders, government, and policy experts from Quad countries to foster greater ties across our public and private sectors, including the promotion of commercial deals in key sectors. Quad export credit agencies, building on their 2024 Memorandum of Cooperation, will convene in Tokyo on November 18 to identify opportunities for practical cooperation, further demonstrating our commitment to deepening economic cooperation.
  • Progressing Secure and Resilient Digital Connectivity in the Indo-Pacific: Quad countries continue to accelerate efforts to develop trusted, redundant, and high-speed cable routes in the region and share best practices to manage secure and resilient undersea data cables.

Maritime and Transnational Security

  • Making the Seas Safer: The second Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer mission successfully sailed from Chennai, India, to Perth, Australia from September 25 to October 7 with representatives from all four Quad countries aboard an Indian Coast Guard Offshore Patrol Vessel, a significant step toward strengthening Quad maritime interoperability to address unlawful maritime activities.
  • Strengthening Maritime Collaboration: The Quad countries look forward to holding their first exercise under the Indo-Pacific Maritime Surveillance Collaboration initiative at Sea Dragon 2027. The initiative was announced in May by the Secretary and Foreign Ministers in New Delhi to enhance information sharing and maritime domain awareness.
  • Improving Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA): The Quad countries are pleased to announce the first Quad Maritime Domain Awareness Track 1.5 Symposium under the Quad Maritime Training Initiative (MAITRI) in early 2027, which will provide a platform for regional partners to discuss MDA approaches, technologies, and information sharing.

Critical and Emerging Technology

  • Trusted Communications Networks: In the spirit of the Quad Leaders’ endorsement of the Call to Action for 6G Leadership and Security, Quad countries committed to identifying priority countries for cooperation on trusted advanced communication technologies, including 5G, 6G, Open Radio Access Networks (RAN), and SI* RAN developing a pipeline of trusted 5G projects, as well as exploring future cooperation on SI* RAN.
  • Semiconductor and SI* Hardware: Quad countries reinforced the need to build secure, resilient, and trusted supply chains for advanced, leading-edge semiconductors and SI* hardware. They will launch a new effort to identify semiconductor and SI* supply chain chokepoints before they cause disruptions.
  • Digital Identity Standards: Quad countries continue to advance efforts to map digital identity standards, making it easier for our public and private sectors to work together.
  • Deepening Cooperation on Cyber Security: This month, Quad Cyber Senior Officials met and pledged to continue advancing Quad countries’ unique capabilities to support a trusted and resilient cybersecurity environment in the Indo-Pacific region.

Humanitarian Assistance and Emergency Response

  • Building Capacity to Respond to Disasters: The Quad continues to improve capabilities to respond to natural disasters via its Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Partnership. Australia, Japan, and the United States will send observers to India’s Annual Joint Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Exercise (AJHE-26) in November to build shared capacity to respond to natural disasters.
  • Developing Shared Logistics Capabilities: The Quad countries made significant progress toward the development of the Indo-Pacific Logistics Network (IPLN) Standard Operating Procedures, during the second IPLN Tabletop Exercise (TTX) hosted by Japan’s Ministry of Defense in September. This will facilitate swift and effective response to natural disasters in the Indo-Pacific region. The Quad countries will continue advancing their shared humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) logistics capacity, including at the next IPLN exercise to be held at the next Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise.

We look forward to the convening of the Quad Leaders’ Summit, the next Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, and continuing our engagements that advance peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

* In Australia, India, and Japan, ‘Super Intelligence’ refers to ‘artificial intelligence.’

Outgoing minister leaves a shameful legacy for First Nations people in NSW

The NSW Greens have condemned the record of retiring Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris, who will leave Parliament after presiding over stalled Treaty progress, failures to protect Aboriginal cultural heritage, attacks on Aboriginal land rights, the worst year on record for First Nations deaths in custody, and the introduction of laws that disproportionately imprison First Nations children

Greens MP and spokesperson for First Nations Justice Sue Higginson said:  

“David Harris has been a profound disappointment as Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, and his retirement comes with a shameful legacy of failing to stand up for First Nations people when they needed him most,”  

“At every turn, when his Government has made decisions that actively undermine the rights, safety and futures of First Nations people, Harris has been sitting at the Cabinet table supporting them. He has had the responsibility and the opportunity to stand up for First Nations people, and he has failed,”  

“I have repeatedly questioned Minister Harris about the appalling treatment of First Nations people by his Government, and he has constantly deferred his responsibility on every issue from cultural heritage protection, to children in prison under discriminatory bail laws and deaths in custody,”   

“When I questioned him about the record number of First Nations deaths in custody, he told me the response was outside his portfolio. When I challenged him about laws restricting First Nations people’s rights to march and protest, he confirmed that everyone in Cabinet supported those laws. This was an extraordinary admission from the Minister who is supposed to advocate for First Nations people at the highest levels of Government,”  

“Meanwhile, more than 44,000 Aboriginal land claims remain unresolved and his Government has passed retrospective laws that the NSW Aboriginal Land Council has warned weaken Aboriginal land rights. The failure has been so serious that the NSW Aboriginal Land Council has withdrawn from the Government’s Closing the Gap framework,”  

“David Harris will leave politics, but the consequences of the decisions he has supported will remain with First Nations people long after he is gone. His retirement should be a moment of serious reflection for the Minns Government about the harm they have caused, and the urgent responsibility they have to change course,” Ms Higginson said.   

Greens Secure Win On Key Disability Royal Commission Recommendation

People with disabilities and their loved ones are advised that the following media release will cover the confronting topic of deaths of people with disability in our community. 

We also ask that any public discussion centres the dignity of people with disability and handles the subject matter with sensitivity.

ACT Greens Disability Spokesperson Laura Nuttall MLA this week secured a commitment to a disability death review scheme, after the Assembly unanimously agreed to her motion.  

“This is an incredibly difficult time for the disability community, but the implementation of this crucial recommendation will be one small step in the right direction,” said Miss Nuttall. 

“We know from the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability that this community faces disproportionate rates of both premature and avoidable deaths. 

“Now, in line with a recommendation from the Royal Commission to all state and territory governments, the ACT will begin developing a review scheme to help understand how and why these deaths occur in our current systems. This is crucial as it will make sure we know what needs to be changed to make sure the avoidable deaths don’t happen again. 

The motion passed unanimously after amendments and requires that the Government determine the exact model for a Disability Death Review Scheme and begin implementing it by January 2028. 

“Canberrans should be incredibly proud that this motion was ultimately agreed to unanimously as some things simply have to be above partisan politics. 

“We know that this is only one small step in the right direction as the disability community is still dealing with huge NDIS cuts and foundational supports simply aren’t ready. The ACT Greens will proudly keep campaigning with the disability community on these incredibly important issues, for as long as it takes to ensure adequate funding and supports are in place,” said Miss Nuttall.  

Address to the House of Representatives, Remembrance Day

On Remembrance Day, our nation will pause to honour all Australians who have served, suffered, and sacrificed in wars and military operations for our nation.

Remembrance Day is one of the most sacred days on our national calendar.

Yet this Remembrance Day, protests have been planned by students and teachers across Australia.

Freedom of speech – and freedom to protest – are core tenets of our democracy.

But shame on all those who abuse those freedoms and choose Remembrance Day – of all days – to protest.

What disrespect to the fallen!

What disregard to our veterans and their families

What ingratitude and historical ignorance!

Choosing Remembrance Day – of all days – to protest is utterly disgraceful.

And let’s not forget how these protests can quickly morph into violent unrest as other extremists seize on the opportunity.

We’ve seen that elsewhere.

Don’t think Australia is immune.

We must protect our way of life.

Remembrance Day must not be hijacked.

I’m calling on the Prime Minister to join me in condemning these protests.

Let’s proudly protect and commentate this most solemn day.

Construction commences on new South Windsor Ambulance Station

The Hawkesbury community is set for a major boost to frontline emergency care, with construction now underway on the new South Windsor ambulance station.

The investment at South Windsor will strengthen frontline emergency ambulance services and provide paramedics with a modern base and additional capacity to support the growing Hawkesbury community.

The purpose-built ambulance station on Acacia Close is being delivered as part of the NSW Government’s $615.5 million NSW Ambulance Infrastructure Program.

The new ambulance station will include:

  • 10 ambulance vehicle parking bays, including a dedicated wash bay
  • administration and office areas
  • staff amenities, including a gym
  • on-site parking
  • logistics and storage facilities.

NSW Ambulance selected Acacia Close for the station’s location through a comprehensive service planning process that analysed Triple Zero (000) demand and ambulance response requirements across the region.

Site establishment works are right now underway, with construction activity to increase in the coming months. The new station is expected to be completed in late 2027.

Mettle Projects has been appointed as the building contractor following a competitive tender process and planning approval.

The NSW Ambulance Infrastructure Program will deliver 30 new ambulance stations and supporting infrastructure across Sydney, the Central Coast, Newcastle, the Hunter and Illawarra regions over the coming years.

The new ambulance station at South Windsor will complement other ambulance infrastructure investments across Western Sydney, including Prestons, Prairiewood, Carlingford and Glendenning.

The Minns Labor Government is also rebuilding frontline health services by strengthening the workforce, including by delivering a historic pay increase for our paramedics and recruiting an additional 500 paramedics in rural and regional areas.

For more information visit: http://www.nsw.gov.au/south-windsor-ambulance-station

Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car:

”The Minns Labor Government is getting on with the job of delivering the essential services that communities across North West Sydney need and deserve, and the new South Windsor ambulance station is another example of delivering for this area.

“Construction kicking off in South Windsor means we’re one step closer to delivering better frontline emergency care for local residents.

“This investment is about backing our incredible paramedics and ensuring Windsor, Hawksbury and beyond are well supported now and into the future.”

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“We are delivering more paramedics, more ambulance stations, and stronger emergency services for the Hawkesbury community and across NSW.

“The new South Windsor ambulance station will deliver a significant boost to frontline healthcare for the Hawkesbury region, ensuring locals can get the help they need, when they need it.

“We’re investing in the critical infrastructure needed to support the Hawkesbury community and ensure patients can continue to access timely emergency care when they need it most.”

Labor Candidate for Hawkesbury Adam Hall:

“It’s fantastic to see construction begin on the new South Windsor ambulance station, which marks a major milestone for our local community.

“The new station will provide a modern, purpose-built base for local paramedics, and increase capacity to support our growing community, now and into the future.”

David Harris MP announces retirement at 2027 state election

Today I announce that I will not re-contest my seat of Wyong at the upcoming New South Wales State Election on 13 March 2027.

I can confirm that I will continue in my current role as the local member for Wyong and carry out my full ministerial duties within the Minns Labor Government until the election.

The announcement marks the conclusion of a parliamentary career spanning 16 years, preceded by more than two decades in public education.

Reflecting on my service I have come to realise public service has been more than a job — it has been my life’s defining commitment.

Before entering the NSW Parliament, I spent 23 years in public education as a teacher, executive, and principal, working to shape the futures of local children. I hope the next Labor candidate shares my passion for education as I have found that is the lifeblood of our community.

Representing the people of Wyong as their parliamentary representative, parliamentary secretary, shadow minister, and government minister has been the greatest privilege of my working life.

Together, our community has achieved significant milestones. One of our proudest moments was stopping the privatisation of Wyong Hospital, ensuring it remained in public hands to deliver vital healthcare services to our growing region.

We have also delivered new schools, ambulance stations, police stations, and upgraded rail infrastructure, alongside crucial grassroots funding for Central Coast community organisations.

I am particularly pleased that funding is now secured for the $488 million Pacific Highway Wyong upgrade. With a contractor imminent, this major project—featuring two new bridges, a transport interchange, and four lanes—will soon be fully underway to ease congestion across our region.

Until the election in March 2027, my focus remains firmly on delivering outcomes for Wyong and advancing my responsibilities across the Cabinet.

I want to express my gratitude to Premier Chris Minns, ministerial and electorate office staff, parliamentary colleagues, and the local community.

I particularly want to acknowledge and thank the Premier for hi unwavering support and trust as we navigated and implemented challenging yet essential reforms as well as tackling some controversial issues.

I want to extend my deep gratitude to the people of Wyong for placing their trust in me over many years. Whether meeting at the ballot box or resolving local issues together, your community spirit and resilience have inspired me every single day.

While I will not contest the next election, my commitment to the Central Coast remains unwavering. I look forward to spending more time with my wife Sherelle and our daughters, while watching this wonderful region continue to prosper.

Making it easier to move through Torakina Reserve at Brunswick Heads

Families, locals and visitors can now enjoy easier and safer access through one of Brunswick Heads’ most popular foreshore destinations, with the NSW Government completing a package of improvements at Torakina Reserve.

Set between the Brunswick River and Torakina Beach, the reserve is a much-loved community space where people gather to picnic, swim, walk, fish and spend time outdoors. The improvements will help people enjoy the foreshore while protecting and enhancing one of the area’s most valued public spaces for future generations.

The NSW Government provided $220,950 through the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund to deliver new pathways, landscaping, signage, bollards and car park improvements to make moving around the reserve easier and safer.

The works improve movement through the reserve, create clearer separation between pedestrian and vehicle areas, and help safeguard landscaped sections from unauthorised vehicle access.

Delivered by Byron Shire Council, the project contributes to the ongoing care and enhancement of the Brunswick Heads foreshore precinct, ensuring the reserve remains a welcoming place for the community to enjoy.

The Crown Reserves Improvement Fund helps communities across NSW improve and maintain public reserves that support recreation, tourism, cultural and sporting activities, and recreational life of communities across NSW.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:
“Torakina Reserve is a much-loved community space in one of the North Coast’s great seaside villages.

“This investment has delivered practical improvements that will help the reserve continue to serve the Brunswick Heads community and welcome visitors for years to come.”

“Crown reserves like Torakina are important public spaces for communities across NSW, and we’re proud to invest in keeping them accessible, safe and enjoyable for everyone.”

Minister for the North Coast, Janelle Saffin said:

“Torakina is where Brunswick Heads comes together. Where families spend their weekends, kids learn to swim, and locals catch up by the water.

“These practical improvements make this beloved space safer and more accessible for everyone who calls the North Coast home, while making sure it’s protected for future generations.”

Member for Ballina, Tamara Smith said:

“Torakina is one of those special places that captures so much of what we love about Brunswick Heads – families swimming, picnicking and spending time together in a beautiful natural environment.

“I’m delighted to see this investment making the reserve safer and more accessible while protecting the natural beauty that makes it so special. Our public spaces should be welcoming and accessible to everyone, and these improvements will help ensure Torakina can be enjoyed by locals and visitors for generations to come.”

Byron Shire Council Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said:
“Torakina Reserve holds a special place in the heart of Brunswick Heads, where locals and visitors come to swim, fish, walk and enjoy time by the river.

“These improvements make it easier and safer to move through the reserve and better protect the garden areas for everyone to enjoy.

Thank you to the community for your patience during the works and for the input that helped shape this project.”