Editors Picks
21 December 2025
HEALTHCARE HELP THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
DO you know where to go when your doctor is closed this holiday season?
As the festive season approaches, Wentworth Healthcare, provider of the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network, is reminding residents across Western Sydney that the emergency department is not the only option for non-life-threatening illnesses or injuries.
Each year, preventable accidents and minor health issues spike between Christmas and New Year, and many people are unaware of the alternative care available when their GP is closed.
Wentworth Healthcare CEO, Lizz Reay, said that the Federal Government funds after hours services and Medicare Urgent Care Clinics through Primary Health Networks to help ease the pressure on emergency departments.
“If you need medical help after hours, on weekends, or during the holidays, visit www.doctorclosed.com.au to find out what other local healthcare options are available. This site can also help you find GPs who offer after hours care, as well as your closest urgent care clinic or service,” Ms Reay said.
In an emergency, always call 000. For urgent mental health support call Lifeline which is available 24/7 on 13 11 14
30 November 2025
YOUNG PEOPLE DOUBT GOVT'S REFORM ABILITY
MONASH University’s 2025 Australian Youth Barometer shows widespread financial insecurity among young Australians, with 85% affected in the past year and many feeling they’re missing out on a happy, healthy life. Affordable housing, youth employment and climate action top their concerns. Most struggle to save, face unemployment or underemployment, and doubt they’ll ever buy a home. Researchers say young people are losing confidence in government action and need immediate financial, mental health, housing support and structural reform.
30 November 2025
LONLINESS CAUSES MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES
ON World Mental Health Day, Relationships Australia NSW urges recognition of relationships as a core pillar of mental health. Loneliness affects one in six people globally and contributes to significant ill-health, yet social connection is often overlooked in a medically focused system. CEO Elisabeth Shaw says relationship distress is a major driver of mental health issues and calls for early intervention, stronger integration with mental health services, and greater investment in relational support to improve wellbeing.
30 November 2025
NEW DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PROTECTION MEASURES
THE NSW Government is strengthening safety for women and children by expanding the Integrated Domestic and Family Violence Service (IDFVS) to six new regional locations, giving more than 1,000 additional people access to whole-of-family case management. Backed by $13.7M over four years, the program supports victim-survivors and connects people using violence with behaviour-change services. IDFVS assisted over 1,700 people last year, including 300 children. The expansion increases providers to 17 statewide and complements broader NSW domestic violence reforms.
30 November 2025
THIS IS A WORRYING SURGE, WARN SLAVOS
THE Salvation Army warns of a surge in children and women experiencing homelessness, with over 5,000 children under 14 seeking support and Homelessness Australia reporting a 20% rise in women and girls needing help. Nearly half have faced family or domestic violence. Limited resources mean only 20% of people can access homelessness services. A Salvos survey shows severe housing stress, missed rent payments, instability and rising violence-driven displacement. The organisation delivers widespread national support.
30 November 2025
HOSPITALITY VENUES TO BE MADE SAFER
THE NSW Government is strengthening safety in NSW hospitality venues with tougher sanctions for venue owners, licensees and staff who fail to protect workers and patrons. New reforms expand grounds for suspending or cancelling liquor licences to include failing to prevent significant safety risks, including sexual assault. The Responsible Service of Alcohol card can also be revoked for harmful behaviour, preventing offenders moving between venues. Updated mandatory training and revised intoxication rules aim to create safer, more accountable nightlife environments.
30 November 2025
CLAIM YOUR FREE KIT FOR CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA
CLEAN Up Australia Day returns on March 1, 2026, with individuals, families, schools and community groups urged to register now. More than 23 million volunteers have participated since the event began, including over 800,000 in 2025. Chair Pip Kiernan says litter—especially plastics, which made up 81% of rubbish collected in 2024 - remains a major environmental problem. Free Clean Up kits are available for volunteers, and early registrations enter a Coles voucher draw. Donations also support nationwide environmental action.
