NSW welcomes Commonwealth early childhood support

The NSW Nationals in the state government have welcomed a new support package announced by the Commonwealth for early childhood education services. Nationals Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell said the sector was in desperate need of support given the significant impact the COVID-19 pandemic is having on services. “The NSW Government…

New Youth Advisory Council holds first meeting

Twelve of the state’s brightest young leaders have been appointed to the 2021-22 Youth Advisory Council, reaffirming the commitment of the NSW Nationals in the state government to embed the voices of children and young people in its work. The Youth Advisory Council provides young people with the opportunity to influence decisions that will create…

Plans to unlock old Grafton Gaol

The NSW Nationals in the state government have taken the first step towards repurposing the site of one of Australia’s oldest prisons, the former Grafton Gaol, to deliver better social, health, and economic benefits to the community. NSW Nationals Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said a new subdivision plan for the 130-year-old…

Ben Franklin

Looking after yourself in lockdown

As the lockdown in the Northern Rivers continues and residents face difficulties on our QLD border, it is important people are making time to look after themselves. NSW Nationals MLC Ben Franklin said the lockdown was difficult for people in different ways and reminded them that support is available. “This is a really tough time…

Four new recruits join Coffs Clarence police

NSW Nationals Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh has welcomed four new police officers who are joining the Coffs Clarence Police District. More than 180 police recruits were sworn-in as probationary constables at a private attestation ceremony, held in compliance with COVID-19 restrictions, in Goulburn. The new probationary constables have been assigned to police area…

Nats deliver $827,000 boost for Upper Hunter showgrounds

The NSW Nationals in the state government will provide $827,690 for upgrades to Gloucester, Muswellbrook, and Quirindi showgrounds under the latest round of the COVID-19 showground stimulus program. Nationals member for Upper Hunter David Layzell said the latest allocations are part of $16.7 million in funding being distributed state-wide and bring the total funding for…

Permits required for regional travel

The NSW Nationals in the state government are working to keep rural and regional communities safe with a new permit system that will come into effect this weekend. From 12.01am on Saturday, August 21, people travelling from Greater Sydney to regional NSW will need to have a permit. Under the updated public health orders, there…

More overseas ag workers arrive in NSW

More than 2,000 overseas skilled agricultural workers have arrived in NSW in the last 12 months to help industry overcome the COVID-induced labour shortage. Nationals Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall said the lack of workers in the agricultural sector remained at critical levels, which is why the NSW Government’s continued support was so important. “The…