Timor-Leste tunes into PacificAus TV

Audiences in Timor-Leste can now enjoy Australian content thanks to the Albanese Government’s PacificAus TV, increasing access to reliable news, delivering high-quality content and fostering greater engagement across the region.

PacificAus TV provides broadcasters in the Pacific and Timor-Leste with free access to Australian content – from drama and children’s programming to lifestyle, current affairs and sport.

Public broadcaster Radio e Televisão de Timor-Leste (RTTL) joins 17 free-to-air broadcasters across 11 Pacific countries already accessing Australian content through PacificAus TV.

PacificAus TV is a key initiative of the Albanese Government’s Indo-Pacific Broadcasting Strategy, which helps to foster a vibrant and independent media sector, counter misinformation, present modern multicultural Australia, and support deeper people-to-people engagement across the region.

The first program being provided to Timor-Leste is the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, featuring the Matildas.

Sports fans will also be able to view NRL matches in Samoa, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Kiribati, Nauru, Tuvalu, Tonga, Cook Islands, Niue and Timor-Leste in 2026.

Delivered by Free TV Australia, PacificAus TV receives $5.68 million per year under the Government’s Indo-Pacific Broadcasting Strategy to expand access to Australian television programs.

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong:

“The start of PacificAus TV in Timor-Leste is another step in strengthening our already close partnership.

“By expanding access to trusted news, sport and entertainment, we’re building greater connections between communities and encouraging a deeper understanding of each other.

“Supporting local broadcasters with content, training and collaboration opportunities helps strengthen a vibrant, resilient and independent media sector in Timor-Leste and across the region.”

Minister for Communications, Anika Wells:

“The launch of PacificAus TV in Timor-Leste means fans can tune in to watch some of the world’s best football talent in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.

“It’s also fantastic to see live and free-to-air coverage of NRL matches now available through the initiative – providing greater access for Pacific communities who have made such a strong contribution to the game.

“The expansion of PacificAus TV to Timor-Leste means 18 free-to-air broadcasters across 12 nations now have access to quality Australian content at no cost – promoting greater understanding and connection across our region.

“We are pleased to see Free TV Australia continue to deliver this important initiative, bringing communities in our region together while fostering a diverse, resilient and trustworthy regional media landscape.”

Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Pat Conroy:

“Timor-Leste and Australia enjoy a strong partnership and close friendship, underpinned by deep historical and cultural links. The expansion of PacificAus TV into Timor-Leste will only deepen familiarity and ties between our two nations.

“By giving people in Timor-Leste as well as Pacific Islands access to elite competitions such as the AFC Women’s Asian Cup and NRL, we are strengthening people-to-people links through sports. The more we understand and relate to each other, the more safe, stable and prosperous our region will be.”

Greens: AUKUS put Australians on the US Submarine that sank a Iranian Frigate

Prime Minister Albanese has finally admitted that there were three Australians on the US nuclear submarines that sank an Iranian frigate in International waters off Sri Lanka.

The IRIS Dena, an Iranian frigate, was returning from India when a US nuclear-powered attack submarine shot a torpedo and sank the vessel off the coast of Sri Lanka in international waters. The US, and the Australian crew members, then left the crew to drown.

These actions were in breach of the Second Geneva Convention, which requires, after a maritime engagement, parties to immediately search for and collect the wounded, sick, and shipwrecked.

The Albanese Government has been lying to the Australian public about its role in the illegal US and Israeli war in Iran. Those lies have consequences and have already implicated Australia in US war crimes.

Senator David Shoebridge, Greens spokesperson on Defence and Foreign Affairs, said

“This was an inevitability of AUKUS. From the start, the Greens warned the Government that AUKUS would chain us to the US military and drag us into whatever war they chose. That is what is happening now in real time.

“We know there are a minimum of 50 Australian personnel on US nuclear attack-class submarines, mostly operating in the Indo-Pacific. Albanese, after questioning from the Greens, has finally confirmed that it includes three Australian troops on the US submarine that sank the Iranian vessel.

“The Albanese Labor Government was the first in the world to back Trump and Netanyahu’s illegal war in Iran. The truth is, the decision to enter this latest US war wasn’t made when the bombing began this week, it was made years ago when Labor backed in AUKUS.

“This is about a lot more than three ADF personnel on one US submarine. Australia has a host of US military bases and deployments, including Pine Gap and multiple RAAF bases open to the US military.

“For the Prime Minister, in the same breath, to admit Australian personnel were serving on the US nuclear submarine when it sank the Iranian frigate and then that Australia is not involved in the war shows how little regard he has for the intelligence of the Australian people.

“The Iranian people have suffered for decades under a brutal regime, they are now suffering under that regime as well as from Israeli and US bombs and missiles.

“The war parties, Labor, Liberal and One Nation have led us down this dangerous path, and the only way back is to end AUKUS and rethink our defence and

Greens announce women’s health advocate and Mornington Peninsula local Sianan Healy as candidate for Nepean

The Victorian Greens are thrilled to announce Sianan Healy as the candidate for Nepean in the May by-election, as she puts cost of living, housing and climate action on the top of the agenda.

As a Mornington Peninsula local and a mum, Sianan speaks to locals everyday who are raising children in our public schools, working in local health services, schools, arts and hospitality, sometimes struggling to pay bills or rent.

She says that her community deserves a strong representative who will put their needs ahead of corporate profits, fight for the issues they care about and be their progressive voice in Parliament. 

Locally, Sianan is committed to fighting for:

  • Protecting green spaces and local waters from overdevelopment or drilling,
  • Properly funding Rosebud Hospital
  • More affordable and appropriate housing that meets community needs

Sianan works for a non-profit in women’s health and has a background in research and education in the university sector. 

Sianan says we can’t risk Liberals and One Nation who will work for their corporate donors, not their community.

The Nepean community deserves a progressive voice who will fight for them on the cost of living, housing, health and climate action. 

Greens candidate for Nepean, Sianan Healy:

“I come from a family of teachers and union members who instilled in me the value of service to the community and caring for our environment. These are the values that underpin all that I do and are my motivation for representing the Greens in Nepean.”

“Big corporations are ripping off our community and making massive profits. The Liberals and One Nation won’t stand up to big corporations when they’re funded by them. Victorians deserve better. The Greens know people want change – and we’ll fight for it.”

Guns N’ Roses Knockin’ on Newcastle’s door

Newcastle has cemented itself as the home of rock and roll with Guns N’ Roses secured to play at McDonald Jones Stadium on December 8.

It will be a live concert season for the ages with Guns N’ Roses to follow Foo Fighters to perform in front of a packed McDonald Jones Stadium crowd for the very first time.

Guns N Roses McDonald Jones Stadium announcementState Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp, Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz and McDonald Jones Stadium Venue Manager Dean Mantle celebrate the announcement that Guns N’ Roses will play in Newcastle in December.

Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012, Guns N’ Roses is one of the best-selling musical acts of all time.

Formed in Los Angeles in 1985, Guns N’ Roses’ hits including Sweet Child O’ Mine, Welcome To The Jungle, Knockin’ On Heavens Door, November Rain and many others have transcended generations.

The international rock band will see tourists flock to the Hunter for the one-night only show.

World-class events like the Guns N’ Roses tour and global aviation links with the recent opening of the Newcastle International Airport are transforming Newcastle into a powerhouse for the regional visitor economy, creating jobs, backing local businesses and showcasing the Hunter to the world.

Guns N’ Roses are the fifth international band to be announced to perform at McDonald Jones Stadium in the past three years following Elton John, Paul McCartney, P!NK and Foo Fighters – and the stadium’s first concerts since Newcastle Earthquake Relief over three decades ago.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to growing in regional NSW tourism and having major events, such as Guns N’ Roses, that attract visitors year-round will deliver real economic benefits to local communities.

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said: 

“To locals, Newcastle is already paradise and I am thrilled that soon we’ll officially throw open the gates to Paradise City.

“Newcastle is a world-class city and the fact Guns N’ Roses are knocking on our door proves major international acts know this is a city worth playing for.”

Minister for Sport and Tourism Steve Kamper: 

“Guns N’ Roses are rock and roll royalty and to have them take centre stage in Newcastle is a huge coup for the region.

“We can’t wait to see Guns N’ Roses knockin’ on Newcastle’s door this December, just weeks after the Foo Fighters take over the city.

“Guns ‘N Roses tour landing in Newcastle reinforces the Hunter’s rapid rise as one of Australia’s premier regional event destinations, with major global acts choosing the harbour city for headline shows alongside major international capitals.”

Local Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said:

“Guns N’ Roses wrote “Take me down to the Paradise City” almost 40 years, and now that dream is coming to life with a trip to Newcastle.

“Last month we announced the Foo Fighters would be taking on McDonald Jones Stadium, and to follow that up with Guns N’ Roses is every rocker’s dream.

“Forget coal, Newcastle’s biggest export in 2026 is a different kind of rock, rock ‘n’ roll!”

Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz, City of Newcastle representative on Venues NSW Hunter Advisory Committee said: 

“Securing Guns N’ Roses on the back of the Foo Fighters last week is not just a win for Newcastle music fans; it’s a win for local businesses and the Hunter region. 

“This second announcement is further evidence that Newcastle has confidence international music promoters as a sure thing when it comes to ticket sales. Promoters now know based on sales from recent concerts for Pink, Sir Elton John, Paul McCartney and this week the Foo Fighters, that Novocastrians can be relied upon to pack out McDonald Jones Stadium when Guns N’ Roses show up in December. 

“It’s going to be a very big summer for Newcastle. And the good news is we are in talks with promoters about more international acts to come to our city in 2026! Watch this space!”

Surfest exhibition to offer Novocastrians a ride down memory lane

Merewether won’t be the only place to enjoy the sights and sounds of Surfest this month as foundation sponsor City of Newcastle celebrates the iconic event’s 40th anniversary.

A free exhibition at Newcastle Museum will offer an insight into the history of the contest, representing a year-long collaboration between the Museum and Surfest to uncover the stories that make this competition a special part of local, national and international surfing culture.

Crowds at Newcastle beach for Surfest in 1986A crowd of more than 25,000 surfers and fans gather on Newcastle Beach for Surfest in 1986. Chris Patterson, Hannan Photography

The exhibition, titled Newcastle: The City That Made Surfest, will open on Friday 20 March showcasing objects and photographs from the Surfest archives, items loaned from the community, as well as surfboards owned by local surfing legends Mark Richards and Russell ‘Russ’ Maloney.

CEO Jeremy Bath said City of Newcastle has been part of Surfest every year since its inception.

“Surfest began in 1985 as an initiative of Newcastle City Council, with Council contributing the initial funding to help create the contest,” Mr Bath said.

“The success of proud Novocastrian and four-time world champion Mark Richards gave organisers confidence Surfest could work in Newcastle.

“The contest was seen as a way to help Newcastle evolve from its industrial roots and promote its beaches and surf breaks to a new audience. As it celebrates its 40th anniversary, Surfest is now the largest surfing festival in the southern hemisphere.”

City of Newcastle’s Director Museum Archive Libraries and Learning Julie Baird said the exhibition will highlight the role Surfest has played in shaping our city.

“This exhibition celebrates the Newcastle community that forged the legends and legacies of Surfest in Newcastle and around the world,” Ms Baird said.

“It offers new ways to connect the public with stories for and about Newcastle, from the Mark Richards twin-fin surfboard, shaped by the four-time world champion at the family surf shop on Hunter Street, to the posters that were plastered all over the city in 1985.”

Other items in the collection include a board that was presented to 14-time Indigenous Classic men’s champion Russell Maloney, and the women’s trophy that represents Phillipa Anderson, Surfest’s first Novocastrian champion.

Sports Infrastructure Working Party Chair Cr Peta Winney-Baartz said City of Newcastle is proud to have fostered an event that champions men’s and women’s events, junior competitions and the Indigenous Classic.

“Every object tells a story and this exhibition will show how Surfest has made an impact on so many people over four decades,” Cr Winney-Baartz said.

“The exhibition features a surfboard commissioned especially for the Indigenous Classic, a cornerstone of the Surfest competition. 

“Proud Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander surfers have travelled from across Australia to compete in this event since the late 1990s.

“The exhibition will follow on from City of Newcastle’s support for a special mural to celebrate the 40th anniversary, which was painted on the wall of Merewether Surf Life Saving Club last month by Newcastle artist Mitch ‘Revs’ Resevsky.

“Surfest has always fostered a strong relationship between local organisations and businesses, while the influx of people supports local shops, cafes, retail and other services, boosting our profile as a world-class destination.”

Classic footage taken throughout the history of Surfest will also be on display.

Organiser Warren Smith said local support has always been vital to the success of the contest.

“Local media has played a big part in promoting Surfest,” Mr Smith said.

“A lot of the earliest footage came from Newcastle’s own NBN Television, which broadcast the finals of Surfest live in the early years of the competition.”

Fittingly, City of Newcastle has also supported a special documentary produced by NBN, marking the 40th anniversary of Surfest. 

It will air on Saturday 7 March ahead of Surfest’s WSL Challenger Series event, which will begin on Monday 9 March.

An encore of the documentary will be telecast on Saturday 21 March at 2pm.

Guns N’ Roses Knockin’ on Newcastle’s door

Newcastle has cemented itself as the home of rock and roll with Guns N’ Roses secured to play at McDonald Jones Stadium on December 8.

It will be a live concert season for the ages with Guns N’ Roses to follow Foo Fighters to perform in front of a packed McDonald Jones Stadium crowd for the very first time.

Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012, Guns N’ Roses is one of the best-selling musical acts of all time.

Formed in Los Angeles in 1985, Guns N’ Roses’ hits including Sweet Child O’ Mine, Welcome To The Jungle, Knockin’ On Heavens Door, November Rain and many others have transcended generations.

The international rock band will see tourists flock to the Hunter for the one-night only show.

World-class events like the Guns N’ Roses tour and global aviation links with the recent opening of the Newcastle International Airport are transforming Newcastle into a powerhouse for the regional visitor economy, creating jobs, backing local businesses and showcasing the Hunter to the world.

Guns N’ Roses are the fifth international band to be announced to perform at McDonald Jones Stadium in the past three years following Elton John, Paul McCartney, P!NK and Foo Fighters – and the stadium’s first concerts since Newcastle Earthquake Relief over three decades ago.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to growing in regional NSW tourism and having major events, such as Guns N’ Roses, that attract visitors year-round will deliver real economic benefits to local communities.

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said:

“To locals, Newcastle is already paradise and I am thrilled that soon we’ll officially throw open the gates to Paradise City.

“Newcastle is a world-class city and the fact Guns N’ Roses are knocking on our door proves major international acts know this is a city worth playing for.”

Minister for Sport and Tourism Steve Kamper:

“Guns N’ Roses are rock and roll royalty and to have them take centre stage in Newcastle is a huge coup for the region.

“We can’t wait to see Guns N’ Roses knockin’ on Newcastle’s door this December, just weeks after the Foo Fighters take over the city.

“Guns ‘N Roses tour landing in Newcastle reinforces the Hunter’s rapid rise as one of Australia’s premier regional event destinations, with major global acts choosing the harbour city for headline shows alongside major international capitals.”

Local Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said:

“Guns N’ Roses wrote “Take me down to the Paradise City” almost 40 years, and now that dream is coming to life with a trip to Newcastle.”

“Last month we announced the Foo Fighters would be taking on McDonald Jones Stadium, and to follow that up with Guns N’ Roses is every rocker’s dream.”

“Forget coal, Newcastle’s biggest export in 2026 is a different kind of rock, rock ‘n’ roll!”

Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz, City of Newcastle representative on Venues NSW Hunter Advisory Committee:

“Securing Guns N’ Roses on the back of the Foo Fighters last week is not just a win for Newcastle music fans; it’s a win for local businesses and the Hunter region.

“This second announcement is further evidence that Newcastle has confidence international music promoters as a sure thing when it comes to ticket sales. Promoters now know based on sales from recent concerts for Pink, Sir Elton John, Paul McCartney and this week the Foo Fighters, that Novocastrians can be relied upon to pack out McDonald Jones Stadium when Guns N’ Roses show up in December.

“It’s going to be a very big summer for Newcastle. And the good news is we are in talks with promoters about more international acts to come to our city in 2026! Watch this space!” 

Winners of NAWIC NSW leadership scholarships revealed

Two incredible women leaders in the construction industry have each been awarded a National Association of Women in Construction NSW (NAWIC NSW) scholarship to further their careers.

This NSW Women’s Week, the Minns Labor Government is boosting women’s advancement, with the sponsorship of two National Association of Women in Construction NSW (NAWIC NSW) scholarships.

The scholarships were awarded at NAWIC NSW International Women’s Day lunch on Friday 6 March to:

  • Isabel Duffy, Principal Structural Engineer at Northrop who received the inaugural $15,000 Emerging Women’s Leader Scholarship.
  • Nishmin Hallam, Director at Taylor Thomson Whitting (TTW) Engineers who received the $30,000 Executive Women’s Leadership Scholarship

Created to recognise women who have made a significant impact on the construction industry and demonstrate potential as future leaders, the scholarships were funded by the NSW Government’s $20.2 million Women in Construction program.

These game-changing scholarships have the potential to change the career trajectory of the recipient and reflects the NSW Government’s commitment to attracting and retaining women in building industry.

The program provides funding for executive-level further education to equip senior women in the construction sector with the leadership skills to drive industry change.

Isabel is already an outstanding leader in Northrop, growing the organisation’s largest business units, as well as leading the charge for 30 per cent representation of women across all management levels by 2030. She also co-founded Tomorrow’s Women in Construction to build a sustainable pipeline of women entering the industry. She will use the scholarship to undertake the Graduate Certificate of Social Impact and the Accelerated Leadership Program at UNSW’s Australian Graduate School of Management.

Nishmin has had a 20-year career with TTW and is the firm’s first and only female director in a technical role. She’s committed to mentoring talent, particularly women, advocacy and advancing gender diversity within the profession. She will use the scholarship to undertake the Advanced Management Program at Melbourne Business School to elevate her leadership capability and strategic influence.

Previous Executive Women’s Leadership Scholarship recipients include 2025 winner Nicole Waterman, Project Leader at Laing O’Rourke, 2024 winner Jua Cilliers, Head of the School of Built Environment at UTS, and 2023 winner Talia Keyes, General Manager for Design with Scentre Group.

To find out more about the Women in Construction program visit:  Women in Construction | NSW Government and NAWIC NSW Scholarships.

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

“The NSW Government is proud to sponsor the NAWIC scholarships as part of our ongoing work to empower and create opportunities for women in the building and construction industry.

“Through our Women in Construction program, we are working towards creating a more diverse and robust sector. Part of that is attracting and retaining women in the industry, as well as making sure they have pathways to leadership, which is what these scholarships are all about.

“Congratulations to Nishmin and Isabel. You’re both an inspiration to up-and-coming women in the industry – and I look forward to seeing where these scholarships can take you in your career.”

Infrastructure NSW Chief Executive, Tom Gellibrand said:

“Congratulations to Nishmin Hallam, recipient of the 2026 NAWIC NSW Executive Women’s Leadership Scholarship and Isabel Duffy, recipient of the Emerging Leader Scholarship. Both accomplished women exemplify the leadership, capability and commitment these scholarships are designed to support, at different but equally important stages of their careers.

“Nishmin’s progression from cadet to Director at Taylor Thomson Whitting, alongside her long‑standing commitment to mentoring and industry leadership, and Isabel’s work as a Principal Structural Engineer at Northrop and co‑founder of Tomorrow’s Women in Construction, demonstrate the impact women are having across the sector.

Through the NSW Women in Construction program, we are proud to partner with NAWIC to support initiatives that strengthen leadership pathways and build a more diverse, inclusive and future ready construction industry.”

NAWIC NSW Co-President, Taleah Stofka said:

“NAWIC NSW is committed to collaboratively driving gender equity through culture change and we are proud to offer two scholarships this year to support women in leadership roles to strengthen their capability, influence, and industry impact.

“The Executive Women’s Leadership Scholarship and the inaugural Emerging Executive Women’s Leadership Scholarship enable further study for two amazing leaders who are already making a significant difference in the construction sector with strong ongoing support from their employers.

“Congratulations to our 2026 recipients Nishmin Hallam and Isabel Duffy, we look forward to seeing your careers develop further through your studies funded with these scholarships. Having women represented at decision-making levels helps to create inclusive, productive, and high-performing workplaces and we thank the NSW Government for their support.”

First step for early works on $630 million Fairfield Hospital Redevelopment

The first steps to prepare the site for the $630 million Fairfield Hospital Redevelopment have commenced, bringing the much-anticipated hospital upgrade another step closer.

The Minns Labor Government has committed $550 million to deliver the Fairfield Hospital Redevelopment, with a further $80 million contribution from the Commonwealth Government to expand the hospital’s Emergency Department.

This first stage of works includes the expansion of existing car parking areas, which is due to be completed in mid-2026. Mettle Constructions has been appointed to deliver the first stage of early works, following a competitive tender process.

Plans for a new 460-space multi-storey car park were also released this week. The multi storey car park along with an expansion of existing spaces will increase campus car parking capacity by approximately 500 spaces on completion of the redevelopment.

The Fairfield community and hospital staff are encouraged to attend a series of drop-in information sessions to learn more about the planning application for the multi-storey car park:

  • Tuesday, 10 March 10:00am to midday, Fairfield Hospital foyer
  • Saturday, 14 March 11:00am to 2:00pm, Fairfield City Central shopping centre, 1/29 Court Road, Fairfield

The Review of Environmental Factors and technical documents is currently on exhibition until  11:59pm on Thursday, 2 April 2026 and feedback can be provided online: https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/fairfield-hospital-redevelopment                                             

Delivering both the current parking works and the proposed multi-storey car park upfront will help minimise parking impacts throughout the redevelopment project. Planning and design are continuing to progress for a new clinical services building, which is proposed to include:

  • A new and expanded Emergency Department
  • Intensive Care Unit
  • Medical Imaging
  • Operating theatres
  • Inpatient wards.

Some existing departments will also be relocated or refurbished as part of the project. The final design for the redevelopment will be confirmed as planning for the project progresses. 

The Minns Labor Government is rebuilding essential health services in western Sydney, with the most recent 2025-26 NSW Budget delivering $1.3 billion of additional funding to support the delivery of health facilities and services across the region.

Minister for Health, Ryan Park:

“Today we are one step closer to delivering the redeveloped Fairfield Hospital, with works now underway to prepare the hospital campus for the biggest upgrade in almost 40 years.

“This is an essential first step in delivering a modern, fit-for-purpose hospital campus that will provide contemporary health facilities to better support our staff, and strengthen health care for Sydney’s south-west, now and into the future.”

Member for Fairfield, David Saliba

“These early works will ensure our growing community has access to modern, high-quality healthcare close to home.”

“These additional spaces will make a real difference for people visiting the hospital and working on the site every day. It means patients, visitors and staff will continue to have access to parking while the hospital upgrade moves ahead.”

Member for Prospect, Hugh McDermott:

“There has been significant staff and community input into this much-anticipated project, with more than 900 people engaged throughout the planning and early design process during 2025, helping to shape the project to date.

“I encourage our community to learn more about this next stage of works, including the planned multi-storey car park, by visiting the website or attending one of the information sessions where they can meet the project team and ask questions.”

Member for Cabramatta, Tri Vo:

“The commencement of early works at Fairfield Hospital is a major step forward for local health care, setting the foundation for a modern contemporary hospital that will better meet the needs of our growing community.”

South Western Sydney Local Health District Chief Executive, Sonia Marshall:

“We’ve reached the exciting first phase of the Fairfield Hospital Redevelopment where we see careful clinical planning and building designs start to transform into reality.

“The start of early works construction means we are a step closer to realising our detailed designs for a new clinical services building and upgraded health facilities and services. This plan is the result of commitment from staff, patients and the public to ensure the redevelopment reflects the health related needs of the growing Fairfield community in coming years and beyond.”

Funding boost enables delivery of social and affordable homes on the Central Coast

Construction has begun on a new housing development in Woy Woy that will deliver 21 much-needed social and affordable homes for the Central Coast.

It’s all part of the Minns Labor Government’s record-breaking $6.6 billion Building Homes for NSW program, which will deliver 8,400 new social homes and upgrades to 30,000 existing ones.  

The project will revitalise vacant and underused land to deliver high-quality a high-quality, modern mix of 12 social and nine affordable units and villas, featuring communal areas and shared gardens for approximately 21 residents.  

The NSW Government has invested $4.8 million into the project, partnering with Housing Australia and Pacific Link Housing, as part of a coordinated effort with the Commonwealth to increase housing supply.

Designed to meet the needs of its future community, the new homes will be just two kilometres from the CBD and within walking distance of parks, schools, childcare, and public transport, providing convenient access to everyday essentials and services.  

Construction is expected to be complete by August-2027.

The Minns Labor Government has delivered 82 public homes on the Central Coast since April 2023, with a further 19 set for completion in the next six months.

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said:  

“Addressing the housing crisis requires all levels of government to work together, and this Woy Woy project shows exactly what can be achieved when we partner to deliver more homes where they are needed most.

“These 21 new social and affordable homes will provide safe, modern and secure housing for Central Coast residents while ensuring the area remains a vibrant and inclusive community where locals, key workers and seniors can find a home that suits their needs.

“We cannot solve homelessness without more homes and that’s why we are on a mission to transform underutilised land into places people in need can call home and that’s exactly what we’re doing here in Woy Woy.”

Minister for Central Coast David Harris said:

“This another win for Woy Woy, transforming under-utilised land into high-quality, modern homes for our growing community.

“I know the Central Coast needs more social homes for people in our community doing it tough and our government is delivering. These new homes are just the latest example of how we are investing in putting a roof over the heads of people who really need it, but they won’t be the last.”

Member Gosford Liesl Tesch said:

“Under the former Liberal National Government, social housing was neglected and sold off. I am proud the NSW Labor Government is investing a record-breaking amount in social and affordable housing here on the Central Coast.

“This boost to the social and affordable housing stock is a welcome addition, with well-built, well-located social and affordable homes being delivered in the heart of Woy Woy.”

Housing Australia CEO Scott Langford said:

“Delivering more homes for Australians requires strong and sustained collaboration across government, community housing and the private sector. This project at Woy Woy demonstrates the impact that coordinated investment can have in accelerating new supply where it’s needed most.” 

Critical New England Highway corridor transformed with $15.67 million upgrade

A major safety transformation on one of the most important highways in regional NSW is now complete, thanks to a $15.7 million upgrade funded by the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments.

Motorists are set to benefit from safer, smoother and more reliable journeys through Sidling Hill on the New England Highway at Kentucky, after a critical 4km stretch of the highway was upgraded south of Uralla.

The project was jointly funded by the Albanese and Minns Labor governments under the Road Safety Program.

The works mark the completion of the second stage of the Sidling Hill upgrades, building on earlier improvements delivered to the north and south and creating a consistent, higher safety standard through this challenging section of highway.

The first stage of works strengthened the corridor with improved road alignment, upgraded barriers and enhanced line marking to reduce the risk of serious crashes through the steep and winding terrain. Stage 2 has delivered:

  • Wider road shoulders to improve recovery space
  • New rumble strips to prevent run-off-road crashes
  • Extended southbound overtaking lanes to reduce driver frustration and unsafe manoeuvres
  • Additional safety barriers to better protect motorists.

Around 4,000 vehicles travel this stretch of highway every day, including approximately 650 heavy vehicles, making this a vital freight and commuter link connecting communities across regional NSW.

Transport crews will carry out minor finishing work including line marking in coming weeks, weather permitting.

Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain MP:

“Investing in safer roads in regional Australia means fewer serious crashes and more Australians getting home safely to their loved ones.

“This is one of the largest and most complex safety upgrades delivered in this part of the state, and it will make a real difference for the thousands of motorists and hundreds of heavy vehicles that use this route every day.

“The Albanese Labor Government is proud to partner with the Minns Labor Government to deliver major safety upgrades on key regional highways like the New England Highway.”

Federal Senator for NSW, Tim Ayres:

“This upgrade is about delivering the critical infrastructure regional communities rely on every day for easier journeys, safer roads and more reliable freight routes.

“This is one of the most important highways in regional NSW – and the Albanese Labor Government’s investment delivers important safety upgrades for the 4,000 motorists who use this stretch of the New England Highway every day.”

NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison MP:

“The Minns and Albanese Labor Governments are delivering real safety upgrades on regional highways because people in the bush deserve the same high safety standards as motorists anywhere else in NSW.

“Sidling Hill is a challenging section of road. By widening shoulders, extending overtaking lanes and installing additional safety barriers, we’re reducing the risk of serious crashes and helping more people get home safely.

“This project is part of a broader program of improvements along the New England Highway – strengthening this critical corridor for local families, freight operators and visitors alike.”

NSW Duty MLC for the Northern Tablelands, Peter Primrose:  

“As the Duty MLC for this region, I know how important the New England Highway is for local communities, freight operators and the many people who travel through the Northern Tablelands every day.

“These upgrades at Sidling Hill will make a real difference for the thousands of motorists who rely on this road, delivering a safer and more reliable journey through what has long been a challenging section of highway.

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to investing in safer regional roads so communities like Kentucky, Uralla and the wider New England area stay well connected and people can travel with greater confidence.”