PRIMARY INDUSTRIES REPORT PRIORITIES
THE NSW Government has released the NSW Primary Industries Workforce Strategy 2025–2030 to support profitable, sustainable and innovative agriculture, forestry and fishing through a skilled, diverse, future-ready workforce. Developed with industry and community consultation, it sets three priorities: boosting business adaptability and innovation, fostering a diverse and accessible workforce, and building careers and capabilities. With primary industries delivering record value, the strategy outlines initiatives to address workforce challenges and drive regional growth and sustainability over the next decade.
NOW IS THE TIME TO SECURE WORKSITES
SAFEWORK NSW is urging construction businesses to properly secure worksites over the Christmas–New Year shutdown to prevent injuries, deaths, theft and vandalism. Inspectors will visit sites before and during the break to promote preparedness and ensure legal obligations are met. Sites must be fenced, locked, powered down, cleared of debris, and hazardous areas secured. Unsecured sites risk improvement or prohibition notices and fines. Managers are encouraged to use SafeWork NSW’s site security checklist.
EXAM CONCERN ABOUT FOREIGN DENTISTS
A PROPOSED plan to fast-track overseas-trained dentists into Australia by bypassing Australian Dental Council exams has raised safety concerns, says the Australian Dental Association. The ADA fears weakened standards could endanger patients and undermine confidence. It argues shortages reflect maldistribution, not undersupply, with far fewer dentists in regional areas. Instead of fast-tracking, it urges incentives, rural funding, and pay. The ADA is calling for the proposal’s reconsideration to protect standards.
NEW LEADER FOR CHILDREN ADVOCATE
THE NSW Government has appointed Katherine McKernan as Advocate for Children and Young People for five years and to lead the new Office for Youth within DCJ. The Office was created after most young people reported feeling unheard in government decisions. McKernan, an experienced social services leader, will champion youth voices, embed their perspectives in policy, and improve outcomes state-wide. Ministers say the Office will give young people genuine influence, not just symbolism.
CONCERN OVER IMMUNISATION RATES
THE AMA warns vaccine hesitancy is rising and immunisation rates are falling across all age groups. Its report cites misinformation, anti-science sentiment, fatigue and time pressures as key drivers, threatening public health gains. Declines risk disease resurgence, more hospitalisations and pressure on overstretched emergency departments. The AMA urges urgent action now, rebuilding trust through GPs, increased investment in general practice, and conversations with doctors to boost coverage and save lives.
SMALL GAINS LEAD TO LONG SUCCESS
AUSTRALIANS are optimistic for 2026, but a MyFitnessPal survey shows most New Year’s resolutions fade fast. One in five broke resolutions in the first week of January, and 77% were off track by month’s end. Many will still invest heavily, with 39% ready to spend $1,000 or more. Weight loss, more exercise, less stress and better sleep top goals, but experts say small, realistic habits—not restrictive diets—lead to sustainable success.
WHY ENERGY SAVINGS ARE POSSIBLE
IPART’s latest reports on NSW retail electricity and gas markets show rising energy prices are challenging consumers, but savings are possible. Many households pay more than necessary by not switching plans, and about one-third do not review their energy offers annually. Only 61% of eligible households claimed government energy rebates, leaving around 470,000 missing out. Demand tariffs were often up to $300 more expensive than other plans. New 2026 rules will simplify rebates and switching, while gas use continues to decline as electrification grows.
