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NSW Ambulance has deployed 11 newly trained Extended Care Paramedics (ECPs) following the successful completion of their training program at the State Operations Centre.

Already registered paramedics with NSW Ambulance, the ECPs come from a diverse range of clinical backgrounds and bring a wealth of experience to their new roles.

After completing an intensive education program, the new ECPs will be on the road as independent clinician across the Sydney region from next week.

Among the graduating class is Jason Bui, a paramedic with NSW Ambulance for 11 years and an intensive care paramedic for the last five, who began the course just weeks after welcoming his first child with his wife.

This graduation marks the 27th Extended Care Paramedic (ECP) course delivered by NSW Ambulance since the program began in 2007.

ECPs are paramedics with specialist knowledge and skills required to care for patients whose clinical needs can be appropriately and safely managed without requiring transport to an emergency department.

ECPs can be deployed to areas of greatest need, including during the recovery phase of severe weather events, and other multi-patient incidents requiring chronic and complex care.

Minister for Health, Ryan Park:

“Our highly specialised Extended Care Paramedics make a real and measurable difference for patients and for our hospitals.

“This new class of ECPs will provide a significant boost to the emergency care services and treatment options available to communities right across Sydney.

“We are glad to have this latest class complete their training, and look forward to seeing them on the road.”

NSW Ambulance Interim Chief Executive Clare Beech:

“Our Extended Care Paramedic program is a clear indicator of how NSW Ambulance continues to innovate to deliver better care for our patients. ECPs provide options that keep people well and supported in the community.

“This latest intake of Extended Care Paramedics has demonstrated outstanding commitment and compassion throughout their training, enhancing their capabilities to deliver positive outcomes and make a real difference to the people of NSW.”

Extended Care Paramedic Jason Bui:

“It has been a busy few months, but my wife Mel has been amazing – as an ECP herself, she has been very supportive of me taking on the course.

“The course has been challenging but I am looking forward to being able to provide more rounded care to my patients.”

Young people across NSW will have more opportunities to connect, make friends and learn skills, with the Minns Labor Government opening applications for more than $4 million in youth grants.

It’s part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to better support young people in New South Wales, led by the newly-established Office for Youth.

The Office for Youth has found that young people consistently ask for more government support to build third spaces where they can find a sense of community and belonging offline.

The enhanced funding package will support projects that help young people aged 8 to 24 make friends, develop confidence, and access new opportunities in the school holidays, regardless of where they live.

The $4 million youth grants package brings together funding through Connect IRL Phase 2, Youth Week 2027 and Holiday Break Autumn and Winter 2027.

Building on the first round of Connect IRL funding, which was developed in response to young people’s calls for more opportunities to connect face-to-face and foster a sense of belonging, the centrepiece of the package is the next round of Connect IRL grants.

More than $3 million available to councils, not-for-profits and community organisations to deliver practical initiatives that help young people strengthen social connections, build independence and create pathways into education and employment.

It comes as thousands of young people across NSW take part in free activities funded through the latest Holiday Break Spring and Summer 2026-27 round.

More than $780,000 has been awarded to 93 councils and community organisations to deliver activities ranging from sporting clinics and robotics workshops, to drumming, dumpling-making and outdoor adventure programs.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to ensuring young people can access meaningful opportunities regardless of where they live, with programs reaching metropolitan, regional, rural and remote communities across the state.

Applications for all three grant programs will be open from 9 October 2026 to 6 November, with successful applicants notified in early 2027. Visit the NSW Government grants and funding finder to find out more and apply. 

Minister for Youth Rose Jackson said:

“Young people have told us they want and this is about acting on it. We’re investing in programs that will create new spaces for young people to connect with each other and their communities.

“These grants are about backing local organisations and councils that know their communities and can create meaningful opportunities for young people close to home.

“Whether it’s creating a new youth hub, delivering a Youth Week event, or running holiday activities, these programs will help ensure young people have more places to meet and hang out in real life.”

Advocate for Children and Young People Katherine McKernan said:

‘We know positive outcomes are strongest when programs are designed around what young people need and value, and children and young people have played an important role in shaping the priorities behind this investment.

‘These grants will support local organisations to deliver practical initiatives that help young people navigate important stages of life, from developing independence and employment skills to building stronger support networks in their communities.

‘Importantly, young people’s experiences and insights have helped shape these funding priorities, ensuring investment is directed towards areas where it can make the greatest difference.’

Penrith Stadium is taking shape as the first major elements of the new venue come into view, with seats now being installed in the eastern grandstand, seating set to get underway in the western grandstand and the new scoreboards being installed.

The seating design has been revealed for the first time, with the new seats inspired by Western Sydney’s famous natural landscapes.

The eastern grandstand reflects the heritage-listed Blue Mountains, and the western grandstand is inspired by the native grasslands of the Cumberland Plain.

The new grandstands will bring fans closer to the field and entertainment stage and provide improved views across the venue.

The spectator experience will be enhanced at the new Penrith Stadium with two new scoreboards being put in place, each measuring 19 metres wide almost double the size of the old scoreboard.

The upgraded digital screens will deliver superb picture quality and faster replay capabilities, and will be supported by new ribbon boards, sound and lighting systems.

Major indoor fit-out works are well advanced with food and beverage outlets, bathrooms and player facilities now taking shape as construction powers ahead.

The multi-purpose venue will accommodate 25,000 spectators for sport and up to 30,000 for concerts, creating a new destination for major sporting and entertainment events in Western Sydney.

The new stadium will have over 450 toilets, three times more than the previous venue as well as more food and beverage outlets, with one point of sale for every 150 patrons.

Accessibility will also be significantly improved, with 184 accessible seats across the stadium, compared with 37 at the previous venue.

More than 1,800 workers have contributed to the project so far, supporting local jobs and construction activity across the region.

With seating installation progressing, work continues on the internal fit-out, including corporate suites, function rooms, player facilities, food and beverage stands, amenities and the field of play.

For more information visit: Penrith Stadium

Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney, Prue Car said:

“The Minns Labor Government is delivering a better experience for Panthers fans – better views, bigger screens and less time waiting in queues and more time watching the game.

“We’re getting closer to welcoming fans back for the 2027 footy season to cheer on the mighty Panthers in our newest venue for sport and live entertainment, right in the heart of Western Sydney.”

Minister for Jobs and Tourism, and Sport, Steve Kamper said:

“Today’s milestone brings the new Penrith Stadium one step closer to opening its doors and giving Panthers fans a modern, world-class home to call their own.

“From the first seats going in to the scoreboards taking shape, you can now see the stadium that will host the next generation of sporting memories starting to come to life.”

Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown said:

“Fans will be literally jumping out of these seats come NRL Season 2027 cheering on our mighty Penrith Panthers and world-class entertainers at concerts and other major events.

“When fans come to sit in these seats they’ll know they’re home. The design celebrates the character and identity of Western Sydney, creating a venue that truly reflects the community it serves.”

Senior Principal, Populous, Josh Robson said:

“With the seats, we really wanted to create a distinctive visual identity that embeds a strong sense of place into the stadium, ensuring the venue is unmistakably connected to Penrith and its environment.

“Seat installation marks a major construction milestone, bringing the stadium’s final look and feel into view and moving the project another step closer to completion.”

The Minns Labor Government is backing the state’s creative industries and bringing more major free events to Sydney, with $2.7 million over three years to support Tropfest.

After its establishment in a Darlinghurst café in 1993, Tropfest grew to become the largest short film festival in the world and a launchpad for generations of young filmmakers. Tropfest’s return in February 2026 after a seven-year hiatus was a great success, pulling near-record entries, and attracting more than 30,000 movie-loving spectators to Centennial Park.  

This new three-year funding arrangement means Tropfest will remaining a staple free event during Sydney’s summer, drawing locals and tourists.  

The investment also means opportunities for young creatives, when the festival returned this year Tropfest received over 700 submissions from filmmakers.  

The 2027 event will return to Sydney’s The Domain, and for the first time in its 34-year history take place on a Saturday night. The Domain will host the event on Saturday, 13 February.  

Submissions for the 2027 event open on Tuesday 1 December.  

The evening event will include 16 films making their world premiere at the Tropfest festival.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said:

“Tropfest is an Aussie cultural institution, and for more than three decades it has been a launchpad for filmmakers.

“It’s also one of the drawcard free events during the summer, and we’re proud to support its return to The Domain.  

“We’re backing Tropfest to support local creative talent and showcase NSW to the world.”  

Acting Minister for the Arts Jenny Aitchison said:

“Tropfest has helped launch the careers of many Australian filmmakers, writers and actors and is a notable contributor to NSW’s creative industries and visitor economy.

“The return of Tropfest shows what is possible when we continue investing in great public events and the cultural experiences that bring communities together and help our creative industries thrive.”

Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said:

“Tropfest is one of Sydney’s most iconic cultural events and this investment ensures it remains a major drawcard for visitors while giving Sydneysiders another great free event to enjoy each summer.

“After attracting more than 30,000 people to Centennial Park this year, we know there is strong demand for Tropfest’s return, and we’re excited to see it back in The Domain in 2027.

“By locking in support for the next three years, we’re ensuring Tropfest can continue to grow Sydney’s reputation as a vibrant, world-class destination whilst attracting audiences from across New South Wales and beyond.”

Tropfest Festival Director and Founder John Polson said:

“Coming home to The Domain is a very special moment for Tropfest and for me personally. There’s nothing quite like seeing thousands of people come together under the stars to discover new Australian filmmakers and celebrate their stories.

“We’re hugely grateful to Premier Chris Minns and the NSW Government for their support. It helps us give emerging filmmakers an extraordinary platform, while keeping Tropfest free for audiences. I can’t wait to see everyone back at The Domain in February.” 

Following the receipt of advice from the Independent Planning Commission (IPC), I have declared the City of Sydney’s proposal for a new square opposite Sydney Town Hall as State Significant Development (SSD).

The IPC considered information on the proposal provided by both the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, and City of Sydney and advised the project is of State and Regional planning significance.

The IPC’s advice on the Town Hall Square proposal was published earlier today and is available in full at Town Hall Square – Request for advice on State or regional planning significance.

Consequently, I am using my authority under section 4.36 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 to declare the proposal SSD.

The proposal will be delegated to the IPC for determination should the City of Sydney submit an SSD development application.

This process will allow for a rigorous whole-of-government assessment by the Department and provide an opportunity for individuals, the community, and other stakeholders to have their say on any development application before its determination by the IPC.

A new photographic exhibition showcasing the service and sacrifice of veterans serving in Afghanistan has launched today at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park.

Point & Shoot 2026; Australian Veteran Photography Exhibition features photographs taken by Australian veterans while serving in Afghanistan accompanied by a personal story, providing a unique and personal perspective on military service. Together, the images and narratives offer a rare insight into the experiences of Australians who have served their country.

The exhibition is part of the NSW Government’s acknowledgement of the 25th anniversary of Australian service in Afghanistan, honouring the service and sacrifice of those who served in the broader Middle East Area of Operations. A special Star Ceremony will also take place on Sunday in the Hall of Memory at the Anzac Memorial, commencing at 10:30am.

Point & Shoot is the brainchild of Point Assist founder Mark Direen, a former Infantry and Special Forces soldier with over 25 years military service including 6 overseas deployments.  

Mark’s own experiences as a soldier were the impetus for this project. Operating in remote, high threat environments is both physically and mentally demanding. It was behind the lens of a camera, capturing both the ordinary and extraordinary experiences as a combat soldier that he found stillness and meaning. Looking back at a plethora of images post service, Mark then began to wonder, maybe others do this too and so the concept began.  

Additionally, veterans living in New South Wales who have served from 1990 to the present day are also being invited to share their story. Veterans can help ensure the experiences, service and sacrifice of contemporary veterans are recognised and preserved for future generations.

More information is available here: www.anzacmemorial.nsw.gov.au/event/point-shoot-2026

Minister for Veterans David Harris said:

“As we mark the 25th anniversary of Australian service in Afghanistan, the  Point & Shoot  exhibition provides a powerful and deeply personal insight into the experiences of those who served.

“Through these photographs and stories, veterans share moments of service, sacrifice, camaraderie and humanity, helping all Australians better understand the realities of military service and ensuring these experiences are remembered for generations to come.

“It is crucial that we preserve the stories of our veterans and I encourage contemporary veterans across the state to share their own stories so that future generations can better understand the contributions and sacrifices of those who have served our nation.”

Point Assist founder Mark Direen said:

“Point & Shoot aims to integrate the experiences of military service into the community. Most Australians will thankfully never know what it is like to fight a war, lose friends in combat, or make decisions where people’s lives are at stake.”

“Those of us who have lived these experiences have a responsibility, where we can, to share our stories honestly so something can be learned from them. Every veteran has a story worth telling. Point & Shoot encourages these stories to be shared.”

Prime government-owned land in the heart of Woolloomooloo is set to be put to better use, with the Minns Labor Government progressing plans to transform underutilised land along Nicholson Street into 15 much needed social homes.

The empty site, which has been vacant since a failed redevelopment in 1989, is ideally located for housing in Sydney’s inner city, close to jobs, public transport and essential services.

It is the latest government-owned site to be earmarked for new homes.  

Initial plans are for 13 one-bedroom and two two-bedroom social homes, providing more people with a safe and secure place to call home in an established and well-connected community.

Homes NSW has begun engaging with the Woolloomooloo community ahead of lodging a Development Application with the City of Sydney in December.

Local residents and community members are being invited to share what they value about Woolloomooloo, as well as their views on the proposal, through a community survey open until 30 October 2026.

Community feedback will help inform a Social Impact Report being prepared as part of the Development Application and help shape elements of the proposed design.

A community photo competition is also underway, giving locals an opportunity to share what makes Woolloomooloo special, with selected material potentially incorporated into artwork within the development.

Homes NSW is also engaging directly with local residents and community organisations, to help ensure the proposal responds to Woolloomooloo’s unique heritage, character and identity while delivering much-needed social housing for the future.

To complete the survey and have your say, visit: https://www.research.net/r/55-66NicholsonStreet  

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson:

“We need to make better use of government-owned land, particularly in places like Woolloomooloo where people can live close to jobs, transport and essential services.

“I want to applaud Alex Greenwich who has spent years fiercely advocating to have this land put to good use for his community.  

“We’re in the middle of a housing crisis and every new social home makes a difference. This site has sat vacant for too long and we now have an opportunity to put it back to work delivering 15 new social homes for people who need them.”

Member for Sydney Alex Greenwich:

“When I first started asking about plans for this site, it had already sat empty for more than two decades.

“Now we finally have plans for new homes that will change lives, providing safe and accessible housing units for people in need.

“I’m grateful to the NSW Government and Minister Jackson for transforming this unused land into brand new homes.”