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Opportunities for Students to Excel in Rural and Remote NSW

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Opportunities for Students to Excel in Rural and Remote NSW

 

Parents of high potential and gifted students in rural and remote areas of NSW are encouraged to apply now for placement in online opportunity classes (OC) or selective high school classes for the 2026 academic year, with the application deadline fast approaching on 21 February 2025.

Who Can Apply?

  • Opportunity Classes (OC): For students currently in Year 4 in 2025.
  • Selective High School Classes: For students currently in Year 6 in 2025.

Aurora College: A Virtual Learning Experience

Run by the NSW Department of Education, Aurora College delivers online classes to students at over 700 host public schools across rural and regional NSW. The program is designed to minimise disruption to students’ lives while offering them advanced educational opportunities.

Key Features:

  • Online Classes: High-quality education delivered virtually at students’ local schools.
  • Residential Camps: Two camps each year, providing opportunities for students to meet classmates, collaborate in hands-on lessons, and attend specialist excursions.
  • Equity Placement Model: Ensures fair access for students from under-represented groups, including those from low socio-educational backgrounds, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities, rural and remote locations, and children with disabilities.

Equity Placement Model

Under the Equity Placement Model, 20% of all OC and selective school places are reserved for high potential and gifted students from under-represented groups.

  • Students may qualify if their test performance is within 10% of the general first-round offer threshold for their desired school.
  • More details are available on the Fair Access webpage.

Placement Tests

Once an application is submitted, students will be invited to take the Opportunity Class or Selective High School Placement Test between 2 and 4 May 2025. This year, the placement tests will shift from paper-based to computer-based formats.

How to Apply

Parents can view the list of Aurora College host schools and submit applications through the NSW Department of Education’s Selective High Schools and Opportunity Classes website.

Supporting Every Student to Thrive

Dr. Paul Wood, Executive Director of Educational Standards, NSW Department of Education, highlighted the program’s impact:

“Regardless of geography or background, we are committed to providing every child in NSW with access to an environment that supports them to reach their full potential.

“Aurora College enables students to remain in their local communities while benefiting from advanced educational opportunities. This minimises disruption to their and their families’ lives, allowing them to focus fully on their studies.”

For more information and to apply, visit the Department of Education website.

 

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Nimbin and Casino Move Towards Better Drinking Water

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Nimbin and Casino Move Towards Better Drinking Water

 

By Jeff Gibbs

Residents of the Northern Rivers are set to benefit from safer and more reliable drinking water, with $357,000 in funding secured for planning and design work to significantly improve water quality in Nimbin and Casino.

The Minns Labor Government is contributing $123,500 towards these projects, with additional funding of $165,000 from Lismore City Council and $68,500 from Richmond Valley Council. The funding will support the development of infrastructure solutions to ensure higher water treatment standards for these communities.

Nimbin

In Nimbin, concept designs are underway for a new filtration and treatment system to provide better-quality water to the town’s 2,422 residents.

Following the installation of a temporary plant during the 2022 Northern Rivers floods, a modern, permanent solution is needed to treat raw water from Mulgum Creek that flows into the D.E. Williams storage dam. The new plant aims to eliminate boil water alerts for households, delivering consistent, high-quality drinking water.

Casino

Meanwhile, in Casino, investigations are exploring options to upgrade the town’s 40-year-old water treatment plant, which has struggled to handle river water containing algae and organic matter during droughts, heavy rains, or bushfires.

The upgrades aim to improve water quality for the town’s 11,000 residents, while also reducing operational and maintenance challenges for Richmond Valley Council.

State and Local Leadership

The projects are part of the NSW Safe and Secure Water Program, which is supporting up to $1 billion worth of regional projects across the state, with more than 260 initiatives in various stages of delivery. Both the Nimbin concept design and the Casino options study are expected to be completed by the end of the year.

State Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin:

“Water security is front of mind for the Northern Rivers region, so it’s great to see the NSW Government looking to the future to ensure places like Nimbin and Casino get the water services they deserve.

“These funds will get the ball rolling on boosting drinking water quality in both towns, which is excellent news for locals as well as the many visitors who flock to this region every year.

“Getting the planning and design processes right is extremely important because these are the essential stepping stones to putting the right infrastructure in place to serve local communities for decades to come.”

Lismore City Council Mayor, Cr Steve Krieg:

“Joining forces with the NSW Government to complete the concept design for a new filtration system for Nimbin, equipped with 21st-century technology, will treat water to a higher standard and help end boil water alerts for those on the town water network.

“We know raw water supply in Nimbin is often affected by weather conditions and organic matter in Mulgum Creek, which is why we are keen to move this project to the tender-ready stage to improve outcomes for the community.”

Richmond Valley Council Mayor, Cr Robert Mustow:

“Kickstarting investigations into the best options for upgrading the water treatment plant to help future-proof water services for Casino is a big win for locals, businesses, and visitors.

“We know extreme weather events can significantly impact water quality in the Richmond River, so ensuring we have advanced infrastructure in place to produce high-quality drinking water is a necessity.”

 

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Life-Saving Defibrillators for Lismore Electorate Sports Facilities

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Life-Saving Defibrillators for Lismore Electorate Sports Facilities

 

By Jeff Gibbs

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin has applauded eight local sporting organisations for securing a share of $500,000 in NSW Government funding to install potentially life-saving defibrillators at their facilities.

“With more people participating in sport and active recreation across the Lismore Electorate, it’s essential that our facilities are equipped with these devices,” Ms. Saffin said. “I commend the recipients for prioritising the safety and well-being of their participants.”

Funding Recipients in the Lismore Electorate:

  • Cawongla District Tennis and Recreation Club Incorporated: Cawongla Tennis Club & Community Defibrillator – $2,345
  • Dunoon United Football Club: AED at Dunoon 2480 – $2,999
  • Flourish Projects Incorporated, Lismore: Defibrillator Installation for Community Safety – $3,000
  • Lismore GG’s Golden Rugby Club: Saving Players’ Lives – $2,290
  • Murwillumbah Croquet Club: Murwillumbah Croquet Club AED – $2,450
  • Northern United Rugby League Football Club, Lismore: Defibrillator on standby at Northern United RLFC – Improving survival rates with a rapid response – $2,999
  • Rainbow Roos AU Incorporated, Lismore: Fun & Inclusive Soccer For All – $2,499
  • Urbenville & District Bowling Club: Urbenville Bowls Club Defibrillator Project – $2,999

The funding was awarded as part of the NSW Government’s Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program, which provides up to $3,000 per organisation for the purchase, installation, and training in the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs).

Since the program began, more than 2,500 devices have been distributed to sport and recreation organisations across the state.

“These defibrillators are crucial tools that can save lives in an emergency, and I’m proud to see so many local organisations taking steps to ensure the safety of their players, members, and spectators,” Ms. Saffin added.

 

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Insurer Sanctioned by CGC for Serious Claims and Complaints Handling Failures

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Insurer Sanctioned by CGC for Serious Claims and Complaints Handling Failures

 

By Ian Rogers

The General Insurance Code Governance Committee (CGC) has sanctioned an insurer for significant breaches of the General Insurance Code of Practice, requiring it to make a $100,000 Community Benefit Payment following serious failures in its handling of claims and complaints.

The breaches impacted 35 customers, including 22 affected by severe weather events, and highlighted major deficiencies in the insurer’s operations during critical times.

Failures in Claims and Complaints Handling

Chair of the CGC, Ms. Veronique Ingram, condemned the insurer’s shortcomings:

“When customers turn to insurers for help during times of crisis, they have the right to expect timely, effective, and fair support. This insurer fell well short of that expectation.”

The insurer’s operational changes introduced confusion, a breakdown in processes, and a lack of accountability. These issues caused:

  • Delays in claims resolution.
  • Ineffective repairs that prolonged hardship for many customers.
  • Failures to address complaints, compounding the harm caused by the delays.

One customer endured an especially frustrating experience, lodging 12 complaints before the insurer addressed their issues, underscoring the systemic deficiencies in its complaints handling practices.

Steps Taken to Rectify Failures

Since the breaches were identified, the insurer has taken steps to address the harm caused, including:

  • Paying $1.2 million in compensation to affected customers.
  • Completing outstanding repairs and settling claims.
  • Conducting a comprehensive review of its claims handling processes to prevent future issues.

Ms. Ingram acknowledged the insurer’s efforts:

“We acknowledge the insurer’s commitment to fixing its mistakes and compensating impacted customers. This proactive response is a reminder to all insurers that swift and transparent action can restore trust after things go wrong.”

Sanction and Community Benefit Payment

As part of the CGC’s sanction, the insurer will make a $100,000 Community Benefit Payment, which will be distributed to a charity supporting vulnerable individuals.

Ms. Ingram highlighted the significance of this payment:

“This Community Benefit Payment reflects the severity of the harm caused while ensuring a positive outcome for others who may find themselves in vulnerable situations.”

Industry Expectations and Future Compliance

The CGC chose not to name the insurer due to its cooperation, transparency, and accountability in addressing the breaches.

Ms. Ingram emphasised the importance of the insurer’s response as a model for the industry:

“The insurer’s actions immediately after identifying its failures set a strong example. Taking responsibility, comprehensively rectifying harm, and learning from mistakes are the standards we expect all insurers to uphold.”

The CGC will continue to monitor compliance across the insurance industry to ensure insurers:

  • Act swiftly during times of crisis.
  • Take responsibility for operational failures.
  • Implement robust claims management and complaints handling processes to protect customers and maintain trust.

Ms. Ingram concluded:

“The harm caused by these failures underscores the critical need for insurers to have strong systems in place. Upholding the standards of the Code of Practice is essential for ensuring customers receive the timely and fair support they deserve.”

 

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Applications Open for $450,000 in Local Infrastructure Grants

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Applications Open for $450,000 in Local Infrastructure Grants

 

By Jeff Gibbs

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin has announced that applications are now open for the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership Program, with this year’s funding allocation for the Lismore electorate increased from $300,000 to $450,000.

The program supports local infrastructure projects that deliver positive social, environmental, and recreational outcomes while fostering community participation, inclusion, and cohesion.

“This enhanced program is a fantastic opportunity for not-for-profit organisation’s and local councils to secure funding for projects that meet community needs,” Ms. Saffin said.

Key Details for 2025 Applications

  • Eligible Applicants: Incorporated not-for-profit community organisation’s and local councils.
  • Grant Range: Between $10,000 and $100,000.
  • Eligible Projects:
  • Building, refurbishing, or repairing community infrastructure.
  • Purchasing freestanding equipment or vehicles.
  • Applications Open: Tuesday, 28 January 2025.
  • Applications Close: 5pm AEDT, Friday, 21 February 2025.

Ms. Saffin emphasised the program’s transformative impact.

“The program is highly competitive, but we’ve seen how grant success can truly change the game for projects that meet real community needs. I encourage all eligible organisation’s to apply and make the most of this funding opportunity.”

Since its launch in 2009, the Community Building Partnership Program has invested over $464 million into more than 20,900 projects statewide, making a lasting difference to local communities.

Detailed guidelines are available here. Successful applicants will be announced in August 2025.

 

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MP calls for crack down on youth crime

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Clarence MP Richie Williamson speaking in the Legislative Assembly in the NSW Parliament. He said a spate of youth crime in the region requires a government response.
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MP calls for crack down on youth crime

 

By Tim Howard

A recent vehicle theft and police chase involving two teens aged 16 and 13 is further evidence of youth crime spiralling out of control says Clarence MP Richie Williamson.

Mr Williamson has demanded urgent action from the NSW Government to crack down on youth crime and restore community confidence in the justice system.

“On behalf of the communities I represent, I am demanding meaningful legislative reforms be introduced in the NSW Parliament as a matter of urgent priority, as the bail experiment of the past 12 months is failing the people of regional NSW,” Mr Williamson said.

“Every day, I hear from locals who are deeply worried about youth crime in our community.

“They feel the Minns Government is failing to take decisive action, and the problem is only getting worse. The Government needs to give this crisis the full attention it deserves.”

The crimes he referred to occurred in the early hours of January 25 when a Honda hatchback was stolen from a unit on Barker St, Casino between 1am and 3.30am.

Police said around 4.10am they attempted to stop the hatchback in Casino and when it failed to pullover, began a pursuit.

The pursuit ended when the vehicle crashed into a motor home parked in West St.

The driver – a 16-year-old boy was taken to Lismore Base Hospital and the passenger – a 13-year-old boy – was airlifted to Gold Coast University Hospital.

Ballina mayor Sharon Cadwallader has also spoken out on ABC radio after a spate of break and enters and stolen cars in the shire.

“These juveniles committing these horrendous crimes right across Ballina shire, the region, the country in fact … we’re saying enough is enough,” she said.

Cr Cadwallader wanted magistrates to force young offenders into diversionary programs, keeping them out of detention while still addressing their crimes.

“There is an opportunity here for the magistrates to just take that into their own hands,” she said.

But the same ABC report said the figures for youth crime have decreased over the last decade.

Data from the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) showed a drop during COVID-19.

While it has risen since then, rates of youth crime in 2023 were still lower than a decade prior.

However, BOCSAR’s quarterly report in December 2024 showed that motor vehicle theft in the Coffs Harbour-Grafton and Richmond-Tweed areas occurred around double the state average over the last 12 months.

Mr Williamson said he was not critical of local police, who were doing the best job they could with the resources available to them.

Instead, he said the justice system was failing them and the community.

“Our local police are working tirelessly to combat this crime wave, and I commend them for their dedication and commitment,” he said.

“But they are being let down by a judicial system that continues to grant bail to repeat young offenders, sending them straight back onto our streets.

“This is not what my community expects. I’ve had enough, and the people of the Clarence and Richmond Valleys have had enough.

“The Government must act immediately before more lives are put at risk.”

Police have identified young people boasting about their activities on social media as a problem.

Superintendent Joanne Schultz from the Coffs-Clarence PD identified the challenges.

“I think the idea of ‘posting and boasting’ that offending behaviour has really escalated some of these activities and made some of these young people a lot more brazen,” she said.

“There is some risk-taking behaviour … dangerous driving, police are often engaged in pursuits, that’s a real risk in terms of what can happen here.”

 

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