Landowners must give 24-hour notice before any planned burn—even outside fire season—to avoid fines and unnecessary RFS callouts.The MIA District RFS is reminding all landowners and residents that they are legally required to notify both the RFS and their neighbours at least 24 hours before lighting any planned burn—at any time of year. This requirement has been in place since the inception of the Rural Fires Act 1997 and applies year-round, not just during the Bush Fire Danger Period. Failure to notify can result in a fine of up to $1,100 and often leads to unnecessary callouts of local RFS volunteer brigades, wasting valuable time and resources that could be needed for real emergencies. “People often don’t realise this rule is mandatory 12 months of the year,” said Operational Officer Justin MacKellar. “If we are not informed about a fire, we treat it as an emergency. That means volunteers may leave work or home to respond to what turns out to be an allowed but unnotified burn.” Planned burns are a valid tool for land management, but they must be conducted responsibly. When burns are lit without notification: Emergency triple-zero calls are made by concerned neighbours or passers-by. Local brigades respond as if it is an out-of-control fire. The person responsible may face significant fines and enforcement action. Before lighting a planned burn, residents must: Notify the RFS at least 24 hours in advance. Notify all neighbours who may see or be affected by the smoke. Ensure the burn complies with current fire regulations and is conducted safely. Consider the direction of the Smoke drift and if it will affect roads, towns, or villages. “This isn’t just about compliance—it’s about respect for your neighbours, for our volunteers, and for community safety,” the spokesperson added.

Balranald Shire Mayor Louie Zaffina recently sat down with The Riverine Grazier’s cadet journalist, Kimberly Grabham, to talk about recent issues arising in the shire. This is proposed to be a monthly chat.A giant line in the sand keeps on being drawn, and a giant clean-up from almost 20 years is well underway. Six months into the dynamic new Local Government being voted in, I think it is safe to say the general consensus would be this; the Louie Zaffina-led Balranald Shire Council is a strikingly positive juggernaut striding towards a bright new future. “We have a lot of things we are trying to get done; and we are concentrating on getting things done right,” Mayor Zaffina said. “We want to get our house in order, and make proactive changes for a good foundation, one we can build upon to cement a strong future for Balranald Shire in its entirety.” The history of Balranald Shire and associated issues are known by all. Balranald Shire Council was placed under administration by the NSW government in January 2020, following the recommendations of a public inquiry report that revealed significant dysfunction and a failure to serve the community's interests. The council's elected members were dismissed, and an administrator, Michael Colreavy, was appointed to oversee operations. The administration period was intended to be a temporary measure, with the aim of restoring good governance and resolving long-standing issues before the next local government elections. The administration period lasted from January 29, 2020, until the local government elections in October 2024. So, it is a safe statement to make; things were not right and had not been right for a while. But the futures’ looking so bright, we’re all going to need shades. “There are many various projects in the pipeline, and the prospect of more being discussed and investigated,” Mayor Zaffina said. BIDGEE HAVEN Bidgee Haven Hostel has just recently celebrated its 30th anniversary. Largely built off the back of over $700,000 worth of local people fundraising and donating money, it is owned and run by Council. It has run for many years at a deficit. There has been around $6 million dollars in grant funding which had been given to the former Council to expand and improve the hostel, and this money has been sitting there for years. Mayor Zaffina, the elected council members and the executive team decided it is high time this money was used for the good of the hostel, and to keep its resources at peak. Under the current grant, the council will accomplish many valuable implementations and upgrades which will further maintain and enrich Bidgee Haven Hostel. These include the construction of a new six-bedroom extension, which consists of the expansion by five high-dependency rooms plus a room to replace one lost to the internal modifications of the existing facility. There will be new kitchen works to the existing building and new dining room extension to the existing building. Also included are landscaping, fire protection upgrade (pump house and tanks), power upgrade, loose furniture fittings and equipment and an activity room extension. There will also be laundry and pan room refurbishment and external works and infrastructure including fencing. Additionally, in May Council will be applying for two grants to continue the Bidgee Haven enhancement project. With grant funding, there will be a rework of store and consulting rooms, as well as a refurbishment of existing resident rooms. The second amount of grant funding will allow the Bidgee Haven staff accommodation project to commence, with building of two, two-bedroom units, and three studio-like rooms. “Interestingly, at the moment there are rooms at Bidgee Haven which are unoccupied, and not bringing in revenue,” Mayor Zaffina said. “So, while we are definitely thinking towards the future in regards to making sure there is enough room for residents, we are also thinking about the whole picture, and the bottom line is you cannot have residents there without qualified staff also having somewhere to live in order to work there as well. “It is vital to be proactive about things and accomplish things now and into the future; the longer things remain the same, the more work needs to be done in the future. A lot needs to be done in the shire, in a lot of areas. And Council has hit the ground running.” ZONING RESTRICTIONS A recent community consultation drop-in session attracted spirited and varied discussion on various town issues. Balranald has the benefit of a brand new, proactive council and Mayor, and I was fortunate enough to sit down with Balranald Shire Mayor Louie Zaffina to have a chat about the many projects Council has in the works, and already has underway. The recent community consultation drop-in session was to discuss the housing strategy for the shire. One of the issues raised was to change the zoning restrictions on allocations of land around the area, and the size restrictions of lots. “We are certainly looking towards changing the restrictions on blocks,” Mayor Zaffina said. “At the present time, there is a restriction on blocks to the tune of about 40 hectares, and we are looking to change it so people can have five acre lots for hobby farms and various other purposes, and rezoning land next to town. “The change has already been made in Euston, and has been in the processes for four years or more. “Euston is an intensive agricultural area, and the move has been to great benefit for many.” THE CENSUS Mayor Zaffina said he and Council have been urging agencies such as the Australian Bureau of Statistics to find alternate solutions to reporting population in the area. When initiatives such as the community consultations crop up, it means experts looking into and analysing the needs of the town are operating on inaccurate data when they are looking to the census to tell them about facts of a town.“The census is just not accurate for the area, including Euston,” Mayor Zaffina said. “We have a lot of seasonal and itinerant workers, so many times of the year, populations of towns such as Euston and Robinvale can be easily doubled if not tripled. “As fantastic as these workers are for our local economies, for the government at large to not be recognising this means we are accommodating many more people in the area but not getting the correlating government funding for essential needs such as medical and hospitals. “This is still an ongoing issue; to figure out how to get this accurately reflected on things such as the census. The way it is at the moment is actually hurting us, we need to make government bodies understand and reflect the true number.” The census tells us who we are and where we are going as a nation, and helps our communities determine where to build everything from schools to supermarkets, and from homes to hospitals. It helps the government decide how to distribute funds and assistance to states and localities. RUNWAY Council has resolved to negotiate with the adjacent land owners of the Balranald Airport runway. This negotiation is to try to purchase land to extend the runway at the Balranald Airport which will potentially add over 500 meters to the existing runway. The primary goal is to upgrade the airport's capabilities and facilitate the use of larger aircraft. The extended runway would improve the airport's ability to attract larger commercial and private aircraft, supporting regional economic development and tourism. It will improve the airport's ability to handle larger firefighting aircraft and other emergency services, enhancing community safety. RAMJO In the interests of being proactive, Balranald Shire Council has been attending Riverina and Murray Joint Organisation (RAMJO) meetings for the past months, in an observer capacity and intends joining the organisation. The Riverina and Murray Joint Organisation (RAMJO) brings together 11 regional councils to provide a united and local voice for our communities on key issues. The RAMJO region covers an area of over 80,000 square kilometres and has a population of 152,909 people. Joint organisations help to build stronger councils and to improve service delivery and infrastructure in key priority areas such as water security, energy, transport, digital connectivity, waste management and health, across these rural and regional communities. The small RAMJO team works collaboratively with the General Managers and Mayors and other staff at each council to identify priority issues and then advocate for government funding and industry support to address these key projects. CARAVAN PARK “There is the prospect of a Master Plan for Balranald Caravan Park in the view of upgrading and modernising the council asset. This is of course all subject to grant funding. “Long term, the prospect of whether it would be more beneficial for council to keep running the caravan park or for them to lease the park to another party to run.” BYPASS There has been some uncertainty in the community, with talks of a potential bypass being implemented. During the recent community consultation meeting in regards to housing, attendees expressed they were happy with the prospect of the ever-increasing quantity and sized heavy vehicles to have another avenue to travel, but were worried the bypass would result in the town dying, such as other towns like Tooleybuc who have had a bypass. Mayor Zaffina said this simply would never happen. “As part of an agreement entered to by Iluka Mining Company at the start of their work in the area, there was an upgrade made by them to McCabe Street in Balranald,” he said. “This was so mining trucks coming in off the Ivanhoe Road had somewhere to go, with the aim of reducing the strain on main roads in the town. “Any full or future bypass would undergo heavy and specific consultation with the community.” MUSEUM Balranald Shire Council was recently approached to take over the highly popular and culturally significant Southern Cross Museum. Mayor Zaffina brings up an important consideration. “At the moment, we still need to be careful and conservative in our actions,” he said. “Balranald Shire Council is still subject to two Performance Improvement Orders (POI), one implemented in 2019, and one implemented in 2024. “We are making great progress with these, but are still working through them, and need to heed these and be cautious, especially in regards to budgeting.” Mayor Zaffina said Council will certainly hold the prospect under consideration. EXECUTIVE ROLE CHANGES Mayor Zaffina said the Interim General Manager, Mr Peter Bascombe is also recommending and implementing changes to the organisational structure of the executive arm of Balranald Shire Council. “The role of Director of Governance will now be split into two positions; Chief Financial Officer and Executive Manager of Community and Governance. “Balranald Shire Council has had no Chief Financial Officer for many years, and the two more focused positions will only continue to ensure all aspects of the council’s needs and business run to peak.” The Position of Director of Infrastructure and Planning Services will remain. THE BOTTOM LINE What it all boils down to is Louie Zaffina and Balranald Shire Council are putting their best foot forward every day for the benefit of the shire where they all live; their home, which they love. Mayor Zaffina is aiming to have a monthly catch up with The Riverine Grazier.

Emergency services were called to attend a tree fire early this morning, in East Hay.A large dried gum tree was ablaze at the rear of a property on the corner of Coke and Cadell Streets, Hay. The fire was quickly extinguished with no damage to property.

A call has gone out for volunteer ambulance drivers in order to maintain efficient local patient transport. Hay Shire Council General Manager, David Webb and Mayor Carol Oataway met with the office of the Minister for Health, Ryan Park as well as NSW Ambulance in Sydney on Friday to address gaps in patient transport. “Council has been advocating for a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) for some time,” Mr Webb said. “NSW Ambulance will provide information and support the establishment of a CERT in Hay to fill the gap in ambulance coverage. “We need eight members of the community to volunteer for the CERT to make it viable. “We also discussed patient transport, and they have given an undertaking to review the patient transport in Hay, so ambulances are not taken away leaving the gap in coverage.” The ambulance issues, including patient transport, has also been raised by Council with Member for Murray, Helen Dalton. The first volunteer, Pamela Francis has registered for the CERT. “It was an incident in the main street when an elderly person tripped over which highlighted the need for volunteers in the field,” Ms Francis said. “That “While I, and other bystanders, comforted the lady, an ambulance flew past on its way to an emergency. “There were no other officers rostered for the day, and an off-duty paramedic took the call, got dressed and attended. was when I enquired about volunteering. I saw the need.” Anyone else who would like to take on the role of what the former, much revered, Hay Honorary Ambulance Bearers provided over many decades, is asked to contact Council.

Hay Children's Services is excited to announce the expansion of its Farm Based Education Program to the Hillston region, bringing high-quality early education directly to families living on farm. This in-demand program is already highly regarded and well supported in the Hay region and provides a unique childcare experience to geographically isolated families. “Having a qualified Educator bring early education into my home on-farm was one of the most important parts of my son’s early life,” former FBE parent of four years, Gabby Flattery said. “The Farm Based Educators would arrive with a ute full of resources, activities and individualised excitement. “They are capable, creative and were a welcome presence in our home each term. “FBE session would offer welcome relief from the 24/7 care that families on farm acclimatise to, and I would often head into town for a day knowing that her child was in experienced and confident hands at home. “HCS provides isolated children the experience in your own home with all resources provided. "It is an opportunity to participate in a day of early education, exploration and fun which they wouldn’t otherwise receive; or would have to travel some distance to participate in. “I more than encourage families in the Hillston area to take up this opportunity, this program is in high demand for a reason.” The HCS Farm Based Education program offers: activities and professional, play-based child-led learning opportunities, in line with the HCS Philosophy Statement and Early Years Framework. •Qualified Educators visiting farms directly to deliver a high quality, age appropriate, Early Education tailored for each family. •A professional Early program Education Enrolments are now open to eligible families living within a 200km radius of Hillston. To request information and an enrolment pack, please contact the Hay Children's Services Executive Assistant on 0269931757 option 1 or admin@haycs. com.au

Working Overtime Could Be Changing Your Brain - And Not For The BetterCountless Aussies slug through 50+ hour work weeks, believing their dedication will pay off in the long run. But new research suggests this workplace marathon might be physically reshaping our brains – and not necessarily to our advantage.The Brain-Changing Effects of OvertimeA groundbreaking study published in Occupational and Environmental Medicine has revealed that people who work more than 52 hours weekly show measurable changes in brain structure compared to those with more reasonable schedules.Researchers examining healthcare workers in South Korea found that chronic overworkers developed increased brain volume in regions controlling executive function and emotional regulation. While this might sound positive, scientists warn these changes could actually lead to cognitive decline and emotional problems over time."What we're seeing is essentially the brain's stress response," explains neuropsychologist Dr. Amelia Zhang from the University of Sydney, who wasn't involved in the study. "The brain is adapting to constant cognitive demands, but this adaptation appears unsustainable long-term."When is Too Much Work Too Much?South Korean labour laws specifically identify 52 hours as the danger threshold where health risks substantially increase. Other research has suggested 55 hours as a critical limit.For comparison, Australian workplace regulations generally restrict standard work weeks to 38 hours, though many industries and individual contracts allow for considerable overtime."Many professionals, especially in healthcare, finance, and law, regularly exceed 50 hours without recognising the potential harm," says workplace health advocate Janine Crawford. "There's this persistent myth that working longer means working better."The Human Cost of OverworkPrevious studies have already linked excessive working hours with anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and impaired decision-making. This new research adds concerning evidence that these effects may have physical manifestations in the brain itself.The cognitive impairment associated with chronic overwork creates a painful irony for many professionals: the extra hours they dedicate to excellence may ultimately compromise the very mental sharpness they rely on.Breaking the CycleWorkplace health experts recommend:Setting firm boundaries between work and personal timeTaking proper lunch breaks away from your deskUsing all entitled annual leaveDiscussing reasonable workloads with managementPrioritising quality of work over sheer hours"Our hunter-gatherer ancestors only worked about 15 hours weekly," Crawford notes. "The modern 50+ hour work week isn't just unhealthy – it's historically abnormal."As this research suggests, working smarter rather than longer might be the true key to professional success – and brain health.

In a significant move for reproductive healthcare access across New South Wales, parliament has passed legislation allowing nurse practitioners and midwives to prescribe abortion-inducing medication, potentially transforming access for thousands of rural and regional residents who have long faced barriers to reproductive services.The bill, initially introduced by Albury-based GP and Greens MP Dr Amanda Cohn, passed with a 65-20 vote in the Lower House after clearing the Upper House last week, albeit in a modified form from its original version."The Greens are incredibly proud to have put abortion access on the political agenda and driven this needed change for women's rights and reproductive rights in NSW," Dr Cohn said following the vote.Breaking Down the "Postcode Lottery"Six years after abortion was decriminalised in NSW, access to termination services remains what Dr Cohn describes as a "postcode lottery," with dramatic disparities between metropolitan and rural areas. In parts of the Riverina region, women seeking abortion services have reportedly needed to travel up to four hours and even cross state borders into the ACT and Victoria to access care.The new legislation aims to address this disparity by expanding the pool of qualified healthcare professionals who can prescribe medication for early medical abortions (EMAs). Currently, only medical practitioners such as GPs can perform or prescribe abortion procedures in NSW.The Rural Healthcare RealityFor many in regional communities, accessing a bulk-billing GP appointment within the critical timeframe required for early medical abortion has proven challenging. This difficulty is compounded by the reluctance of some practitioners to advertise their services due to lingering stigma, despite decriminalisation.Independent Barwon MP Roy Butler, who supported the bill, noted: "The changes proposed in this bill are not radical changes to abortion law; they merely bring NSW in line with other states to allow nurse practitioners and qualified midwives to legally prescribe a medication to terminate a pregnancy."He added that "allowing midwives and nurse practitioners to prescribe the medication will make a safer method of termination more accessible to people in regional, rural and remote areas."The Cost of Limited AccessThe financial and emotional costs of limited abortion access have been significant for rural residents. The Shoalhaven Women's Centre has reported additional trauma experienced by those seeking abortions due to costs including transport, accommodation, and the need to take time off work.Labor MP Jenny Aitchison highlighted the medical risks associated with delayed care: "The delay in accessing abortion can lead to later term abortions, which can put women's lives at risk."Data from 2019/2020 revealed that only 0.7 percent of both medical and surgical terminations were conducted in NSW public hospitals, with dedicated abortion services available in just two NSW hospitals - John Hunter Hospital and Wagga Wagga Base Hospital.Not Without OppositionThe bill faced significant opposition, including from Wagga MP Joe McGirr, who expressed concerns about adding burden to an "already stretched health care system.""The legislation before the house still imposes a burden on the overworked state system by attempting to have nurse practitioners and endorsed midwives, who are in short supply, perform a function that is already being delivered," Dr McGirr argued.Liberal MP Monica Tudehope, who also voted against the bill, stated: "There is little evidence presented to make the case that there are issues with access, even in regional NSW."A Step Forward, Not the Final SolutionDr Cohn acknowledged that while the legislation marks progress, comprehensive reform is still needed: "Equitable access to reproductive health care in rural NSW won't be fixed by this bill alone. "The government must fund abortion services in public hospitals, as the Premier promised last year."The bill received support from both sides of politics, with the Premier, Opposition Leader, Health Minister and Shadow Health Minister all backing the legislation.For regional and rural residents who have struggled with limited reproductive healthcare options, the new legislation represents a significant step toward addressing what many advocates have described as a fundamental healthcare inequity in NSW.

If you've been in the workforce for a while, you might've noticed something dodgy about your super. Your payslip shows it's been set aside, but it could be months before it actually lands in your account. Sound familiar?The Current RortLet's call it what it is - the current system is a bit of a rort. If you have a good employer, like me, they will pay it far more regularly. In my case, it is once a month.But, your boss only has to cough up your super four times a year. That means they can hang onto YOUR retirement savings for up to four months before transferring it.Think about it. Would you be happy if your employer said, "We'll just hang onto a chunk of your pay for a few months before we deposit it"? Not likely! Yet that's exactly what happens with super.The Good NewsFinally, the government's pulled its finger out. From July 2026, new "payday super" rules are coming in. Employers will have to transfer your super within seven days of paying your wages.Why This Matters to YouA whopping one in four Aussie workers are getting dudded on their super. The ATO reckons $5.2 billion in super went missing in 2021-22. That's billion with a 'B'!When your super only gets paid quarterly, it's dead easy for mistakes to slip through the cracks. Or worse - for dodgy employers to "forget" to pay altogether.Plus, every dollar that sits in your employer's account instead of your super fund is missing out on potential investment returns. Over a working lifetime, that can add up to thousands of dollars missing from your retirement nest egg.No ExcusesBack in the '90s when super was new, quarterly payments made sense. Businesses were still using paper ledgers and paying wages in cash.These days, every employer already uses digital systems for Single Touch Payroll. The tech is there to pay super with every pay cycle.Many decent employers already do this. It's just the laggards and those using your super as an interest-free loan who'll need to lift their game.What About Small Business?Of course, industry groups are chucking a wobbly and asking for another two-year delay. They reckon businesses need more time to adjust.But they've already had three years' notice since the announcement in 2023. Most payroll software providers have already built the capability. And let's be honest, these same industry groups would probably still be complaining if they'd had a decade to prepare.Check Your Super!While we wait for these changes, make it a habit to check your super regularly. Don't just assume the amount on your payslip has gone into your fund.Log in to your super account online or use the ATO's MyGov service to track your payments. If something looks suss, chase it up! Your retirement savings are worth fighting for.The Bottom LineYour super is your money. It should go into your account when you get paid, just like the rest of your wages.The payday super changes are a no-brainer that will protect workers, simplify things for honest employers, and help ensure we can all enjoy a decent retirement when the time comes.July 2026 can't come soon enough!

In the heart of regional New South Wales, Michelle Bordignon moves quietly through Griffith's streets in her van, delivering hope one piece of furniture at a time. To dozens of families who have found themselves sleeping in cars or moving into empty flats, she isn't just a volunteer – she's their guardian angel."I never set out to become this person," Michelle says with a modest smile, standing amidst neatly folded children's clothes at her latest community sale. "I just couldn't bear the thought of someone's child sleeping on a bare floor when I had extra beds gathering dust."What began as simple acts of kindness has blossomed into Griffith Helping Hands, a registered charity that has become a lifeline for the community's most vulnerable. Every afternoon after finishing her day job, Michelle transforms into a one-woman welfare agency, delivering beds, tables, and dignified beginnings to those starting over."Last month, I helped a young mum with three little ones who'd finally secured housing after weeks in their car," Michelle recalls, her eyes softening. "The joy on those children's faces when they saw actual beds with proper sheets – that's what keeps me going."The charity's $5 bag sales have become legendary in Griffith. For the price of a coffee, locals in need fill shopping bags with quality clothing, kitchenware, and household essentials. The modest proceeds fund emergency supplies like nappies for families in crisis.In a corner of the makeshift shop, volunteer Kerri Bordignon, Michelle's sister-in-law, carefully arranges baby clothes. "What Michelle never tells you is that she's usually here until midnight sorting donations, then up at dawn delivering furniture before her regular job starts," Kerri confides. "She's unstoppable."That tireless energy found new purpose after unimaginable tragedy struck in 2019, when Michelle lost her beloved daughter Stella to suicide. While many might have retreated from the world, Michelle channeled her grief into service."Stella had such a beautiful heart," Michelle says softly. "Helping others feels like honoring her memory. I think she'd be proud."The scale of need in this regional community has grown dramatically in recent months. "By early March this year, I'd already moved 30 beds," Michelle explains. "Normally I wouldn't reach those numbers until winter. The cost-of-living crisis is pushing more people to the edge than ever before."Her small van, purchased through a community fundraiser organized by her late friend Gwen Beaton, has become a familiar sight around town. Beyond the material assistance, Michelle offers something equally precious – dignity. Every clothing donation is meticulously folded with size labels attached. Bedding is carefully sorted and marked. Nothing feels like charity; everything feels like care."We're all just one bad break away from needing help," Michelle reflects, watching a mother and daughter excitedly selecting books from a donation box. "Today it's them, tomorrow it could be any of us."As Griffith faces growing economic pressures, Michelle's immediate challenge is finding a larger space. Her current shed is bursting at the seams, limiting the number of volunteers who can help sort the mountains of donations."The community has been so generous with items," she says. "Now we just need a bit more room to organize it all properly."As the afternoon winds down and the last customers leave with bulging bags, Michelle begins loading leftover items back into her van. Tomorrow, she'll do it all again."People call me an angel, but I'm just a mum who understands that everyone deserves a safe place to sleep and clothes that make them feel good," she says. "Sometimes the smallest comforts make the biggest difference."In a world that often feels divided, Michelle Bordignon reminds us what community truly means – showing up for each other, one van-load of furniture at a time.

Domestic and Family violence is an issue which is fast moving towards a national epidemic.Both parties unveiled their intended actions to reduce the crisis prior to the election, but experts are concerned these proposals lack the comprehensive approach needed to create meaningful change.Labor's Financial FocusLabor won the most recent election, held earlier this month.The winning party's strategy centres heavily on combating financial abuse, which they describe as an "insidious and rapidly growing form" of control. Their plan aims to prevent perpetrators from manipulating tax and corporate systems to create debt, make abusers legally accountable for debts forced upon victim-survivors through coercive control, and investigate methods to block perpetrators from accessing the superannuation of those they've abused after death.The party has earmarked $8.6 million specifically for perpetrator-focused initiatives, including early intervention programs targeting young people showing concerning behaviours.Coalition's Fragmented ApproachThe Coalition's response appears more scattered, presenting 14 separate commitments without a cohesive framework. Their plan emphasises expanding emergency accommodation and providing one-off payments to help women escape violent situations. They've also pledged to boost funding for crisis helplines to ensure calls are answered promptly – addressing a critical gap in current service provision.However, their $90 million commitment lacks detail regarding timeframes and represents less than a tenth of what frontline services estimate is required annually just to meet existing demand.Funding Questions RemainFunding clarity remains a significant issue with both proposals. Beyond the $8.6 million for perpetrator programs, Labor has provided little detail about overall investment in their initiatives. Neither party has committed to the multi-year funding models that service providers have consistently identified as essential for staff retention and consistent service delivery.Law and Order Dominates Coalition PlanA substantial portion of the Coalition's announcement focuses on law enforcement responses, including calls for a national domestic violence register and uniform knife laws across states. While legal accountability matters, experts caution that over-reliance on policing and prosecution overlooks the structural inequalities and social attitudes underpinning the violence.The Coalition also proposes new federal offences for online coercive behaviour and spyware use – a significant legal shift that would create federal family violence offences. Questions remain about how these would interact with existing state laws, many of which already address stalking and electronic monitoring.The party has also renewed its controversial 2023 commitment to a Royal Commission into sexual abuse in Indigenous communities – a proposal widely criticised by First Nations scholars and organisations who point to the problematic legacy of interventions like those in the Northern Territory.Critical Gaps in Both PlansSeveral crucial areas have been overlooked by both parties. Sexual violence receives virtually no mention, despite its prevalence. Neither plan adequately addresses housing beyond emergency accommodation, though lack of safe, affordable housing remains one of the greatest barriers for those attempting to escape violence.Children's needs as victim-survivors are largely ignored, with no specific provisions for age-appropriate crisis responses or recovery support. Despite recent public discourse on engaging men and boys in prevention work, this aspect receives minimal attention. Additionally, neither party outlines robust monitoring frameworks to evaluate the effectiveness of their initiatives.Both Labor and the Coalition claim their proposals build upon the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children, which aims to eliminate gender-based violence within a generation. However, it's evident that Australia requires stronger bipartisan leadership that treats this crisis with the urgency afforded to other national emergencies.Voters are left wondering whether either party truly grasps the scale and urgency of the issue that continues to claim Australian women's lives.

Far West Local Health District's 2025 Nursing and Midwifery Leadership Awardee was Barbara Turner, Deputy Director Remote Health Services. Ms Turner operates in the Wilcannia and White Cliffs area.The award recognises a nurse or midwife who demonstrates outstanding leadership in the areas of clinical care, management, education, or research. Barb exemplifies all of these qualities.Ms Turner has been credited as a long-standing employee and highly valued member of her Directorate, and has played a pivotal role in inspiring many nurses to expand and diversify their careers.Congratulations.

Locals in Wilcannia are encouraged to head down to Ray Hunter Park next Tuesday, May 20 between 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM for a unique event combining roaring engines, tasty tucker, and important health checks.Psychs on Bikes, a group of motorcycling mental health professionals, will be rolling into town, offering a chance to check out their bikes, grab a free BBQ feed, and get some quick health checks done, including blood pressure and blood sugar checks.Most importantly, the team will be available for a friendly chat about how you're travelling. These folks are keen to connect with the community and provide an easy, non-threatening way for people to talk about their mental wellbeing. If you've been meaning to have a yarn about things weighing on your mind, this is a perfect opportunity.Don't be shy – get along to Ray Hunter Park and say g'day!The sight of mental health professionals cruising into outback towns on motorcycles might seem a bit out of the ordinary, but it's the driving force behind an incredible initiative called Psychs on Bikes (PoB). This organisation has been hitting the road since 2011 with a mission to bring mental health support to rural and remote Australia.The whole idea kicked off during a motorcycle ride across the vast Nullarbor Plains back in 2011. The founder, Dr Joseph Dunn, known affectionately as the 'Fat Controller', combined his passion for motorcycle touring with his work in mental health. Along with a couple of colleagues, this cross-country journey sparked the concept that would become Psychs on Bikes. Dr Dunn, who completed his medical degree in Auckland in 1978 and became a Fellow of the RANZCP in 1990, has since inspired a wide range of mental health professionals from all corners of the country to join him on these epic rides across Australia.Since its inception, PoB has delivered more than a thousand one-on-one health checks in regional and remote areas. The core aim is to visit areas where mental illness is more prevalent and services are often less readily available compared to the cities. Notably, suicide rates are much higher in these parts of the country.The unique approach of having motorcycling mental health professionals visit these towns helps attract attention and encourages people, particularly some men who might typically be hesitant to seek help, to undergo a "men's health check".Beyond the practical health checks, a really significant outcome of their work has been raising individuals' awareness of the impact of their mental suffering, not just on themselves but on their families too. They also work hard to destigmatise the idea of seeking help and assist people in identifying ways they can start helping themselves.It's not just about helping the community; the rides also allow the mental health professionals involved to share the experience of the 'open road' and develop lasting bonds that extend beyond the trips and into their everyday lives.Psychs on Bikes is also committed to fostering a respectful environment, holding a zero-tolerance policy for any form of discrimination, bullying, harassment, or abuse, and aiming to educate others to uphold the same standard.It's clear that what started as a love for bikes and a passion for mental health on a ride across the Nullarbor has grown into a vital service making a real difference in the lives of Australians in the bush.

WaterNSW is advising landholders and the community along the Great Darling Anabranch (GDA) of a significant change in water management: the cessation of releases from Menindee Lakes to the GDA.This decision comes as the Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) is ceasing their call on the shared resource that previously necessitated these releases.The process of stopping the flow is being implemented in stages:•As of Tuesday, May 13, the Packers Crossing Regulator on the GDA was closed. This action specifically ceased flow to the lower GDA.•Following this, on Thursday, May 15, the Lake Cawndilla Outlet is scheduled to be closed. This closure will cease all releases to the GDA from Menindee Lakes.The immediate consequence of stopping these releases is that flows are expected to recede over the coming months. This recession will occur as the water currently in the system drains along the entire length of the river.In light of these receding flow levels, WaterNSW is advising landholders and community members on the GDA to take proactive steps. They are specifically encouraged to monitor river levels closely2. The reason for this close monitoring is to allow them to make necessary arrangements. These arrangements are crucial to ensure infrastructure and livestock are not impacted by the dropping water levels.Based on the information provided in the sources, the primary focus of this announcement is on the practical implications for the community and landholders due to the expected reduction in water levels, prompting the need for preparation to protect assets and livestock. The sources do not detail broader ecological impacts on the Great Darling Anabranch ecosystem resulting from the cessation of these releases.

We want to hear form you: if you have fears of will be affected by the ban of the live export of sheep by sea, get in touch.The broader sheep industry is reeling from the recent federal election outcome, which saw the Albanese-led Labor party secure victory. The win is widely seen as signaling the imminent end of the live export of sheep by sea, a trade the government plans to phase out by May 2028. This prospect has ignited deep anxiety among those whose livelihoods depend on the industry, particularly in Western Australia.For years, farmers, especially in WA, have been actively campaigning against the government's proposal to ban live exports. Annual exports of live sheep typically involve more than one million head, with key markets in the Middle East and Asia. Losing this market, they argue, will have devastating consequences.The "Keep the Sheep" campaign became a focal point of resistance, urging voters to rank Labor last in an effort to protect the livestock export trade. Campaigners contend that ending live exports will cripple the Western Australian sheep industry. Their concerns are highlighted by spokesperson Ben Sutherland, who wrote to the Prime Minister before the election, stating that farmers in WA were "suffering in your Government's hands."The evidence presented includes a significant 25 per cent reduction in the Western Australian sheep flock in 2024, with further declines anticipated in 2025. Adding to the woes are the closure of two major abattoirs, falling wool production, and shearers reporting reduced business. According to industry voices, the health of the Western Australian sheep industry relies on competition from three essential markets: meat processing, wool production, and live exports. Taking one away, they argue, damages the viability of sheep production and causes all three sectors to suffer "dire consequences."The opposition Liberal–National Coalition had pledged to reinstate the live sheep export trade if elected, contrasting sharply with Labor's policy. Following the election results, the Keep the Sheep campaign acknowledged the defeat with disappointment but thanked everyone who supported their cause, emphasizing that the fight was about "people, communities, livelihoods, and the future of rural Australia," not just politics. They also expressed gratitude to those who put Labor last at the ballot box to stand with farmers and rural communities.While the Labor government has committed to providing a $140 million compensation package to the industry as part of the phase-out process, this has not appeased opponents of the ban. Industry leaders, including National Farmers' Federation president David Jochinke, have voiced major concerns about the returned government's policies, citing potential headwinds in areas like water, industrial relations, and trade regarding live sheep export. Jochinke stated farmers need to hold firm on agriculture policy and would not back away from their hard lines on acceptable policies.Campaign coordinator Holly Ludeman reflected on the election outcome, stating the need to take some time to regroup but affirmed her intention to continue the fight, highlighting that the live export trade is a viable industry. While the government points to successes in restoring and diversifying agricultural trade with other markets, including recent deals with China for lamb and apples, for many in the Western Australian sheep industry, the looming live export ban remains an existential threat that dominates their concerns for the future.

Navigating the digital world with children is a hot topic for many parents, and perhaps the most common concern revolves around just how much screen time kids are getting. Frankly, if I could wave a magic wand, I'd shift the conversation entirely. Instead of fixating on the amount of screen time, we should be talking about the quality of screen engagement.Yes, there are guidelines – both here in Australia and internationally – that set limits based on age. For instance, the recommendation for two- to five-year-olds in Australia is no more than one hour a day, and for five- to 17-year-olds, it's typically two hours of sedentary screen use daily, not counting schoolwork. However, many Australian parents find these time-based rules incredibly hard to stick to. In fact, surveys show that excessive screen time is a top health worry for parents, with the vast majority seeing it as a significant issue.But focusing solely on the clock feels increasingly out of step with reality. This time approach only tells us about quantity; it completely ignores what children are actually watching or doing, and how they are engaging with it. This isn't an argument for letting kids watch screens all day – absolutely not! – but it is a call to redirect our attention to what content is being consumed and the way children are interacting with it.The early years are fundamental, deeply influencing long-term health and well-being. Vital activities like play and physical activity are crucial for healthy development. Therefore, any screen use should rightly be just one part of a child's broader life.Think about the sheer variety of ways screens are used in homes every single day. One child might catch a brief, dramatic fight scene while a sibling watches something. Both parents and researchers group anything with a screen together and call it screen time, but there are so many different screens used for so many different reasons. The good news is that researchers are actively looking at how children can best use screens in our increasingly digital world. And crucially, our everyday conversations need to move beyond rigid, inflexible rules that often just end up making parents feel guilty.So, what does quality screen use actually look like? There are two main strategies that stand out.The first key approach is to actively engage with what your child is watching or playing. The idea here is to use the time children spend with screens, whether it's watching TV or playing a game, as an opportunity for conversation, boosting language skills, and improving comprehension. You can ask them questions afterwards, like "What were you noticing in that show?" or "Which parts did you really like?". This shared experience is also a perfect moment to gently discuss family values if something on screen doesn't quite align – for instance, pointing out that talking problems through is usually better than fighting. It also helps children start thinking critically about the media they consume.The second vital strategy is to make thoughtful choices about the content your children watch. This gives parents the power to select material that not only aligns with their family's values but also supports learning and growth. Not every single show has to be overtly educational, but there are plenty of programs and games out there that can genuinely help kids develop skills. Certain shows can spark an early interest in numbers, encourage physical movement, build emotional resilience, help with self-regulation, or introduce concepts like the prehistoric world. Classic children's programs remain popular for good reason. Similarly, some video games can surprisingly help develop fine motor skills or teach teamwork. And, of course, it's perfectly fine – just like it is for adults relaxing with their favourite show or movie – for children to watch something purely for enjoyment sometimes.The fundamental message is that parents and caregivers have the opportunity to make conscious, quality-focused decisions. Instead of just switching on a screen and stepping away, the real value lies in actively engaging with what our children are watching and playing.

By Jenny DwyerBroaden your understanding of Cultural Burns to reduce exotic weed, promote native ground cover and increase drought tolerance.Hay Plains Landcare is excited to offer the opportunity for landholders and the community to learn more about Cultural Burning at a Cultural Burn Workshop on Tuesday and Wednesday, June 3 and 4, 2025, facilitated by Dean Freeman, Local Land Services, and the Wiradjuri Cultural Burn Team from Tumut.Cultural Burning, also known as Indigenous or Traditional Fire Management, is a land care practice used by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for tens of thousands of years. It involves the application of low-intensity, patchy fires at the right time of year, in the right places, and under the right conditions.These cool burns clear away exotic weeds and thick leaf litter, without damaging the soil or mature vegetation, creating space and light for native species to regenerate.Many native plant species are fire-adapted, meaning they have evolved to respond positively to this kind of disturbance and some even rely on it to germinate.Unlike hot, uncontrolled bushfires, Cultural Burns are designed to encourage biodiversity and help maintain open, grassy ecosystems that are dominated by our valued native species.In turn, landscapes with native groundcover will build drought tolerance by protecting the soil from erosion, retaining moisture, and reducing evaporation.Healthy ground cover will also improve the soil's organic matter and structure, allowing it to absorb and hold water more effectively which is essential in times of low rainfall."The Australian landscape has been modified by the use of Cultural Burning as a land management practice for many thousands of years by First Nations People," Hay Plains Landcare Chair Bert Matthews said."Science is increasingly understanding the merit of Cultural Burns to reduce wild fire risk and manage groundcover in all landscapes."We need to learn more about adapting traditional revegetation techniques to modern land management systems."This workshop is not only about achieving positive ecological outcomes, it will strengthen Cultural understanding, support intergenerational learning and preserve First Nations Heritage.All are very welcome to attend. Registrations essential: https://bit.ly/cultural-burnHay Landcare said this project is supported by FRRR, through funding from the Australian Government's Future Drought Fund, made possible by the NSW Landcare Enabling Program, a collaboration of Local Land Services and Landcare NSW supported by the NSW Government.

 If you see a TikTok account suggesting you can claim your dog as a legitimate work expense this tax time, it’s probably time to put down your phone, says CPA Australia.With the end of financial year approaching, CPA Australia is warning that taking tax advice from social media platforms, especially TikTok, is a bad idea.CPA Australia has seen numerous examples of TikTok finfluencers – some with large followings – making outrageous claims about potential work-related tax deductions.They include:Claiming expenses for your pet as a guard dog while you work from homeClaiming a luxury designer handbag as a work laptop bagClaiming thousands of dollars in fuel costs without needing receiptsCPA Australia Tax Lead, Jenny Wong, said it’s concerning that many Aussies will watch this content and assume they are getting free expert advice.“In many cases the advice from these accounts is simply wrong. In other cases, the claims have an ounce of truth but would apply only to a very small group of workers,” she said.“For example, some farmers may be able to claim expenses related to their sheep dogs, but the idea that a dog owner in a major city can claim expenses for a guard dog while they work from home is simply absurd.“Similarly, many workers can claim the cost of buying a laptop bag. However, we’ve seen TikTok posts suggesting that taxpayers can take advantage of this to purchase expensive designer bags that are clearly not intended for carrying work laptops.“Some finfluencers exaggerate the potential for certain claims to garner attention and likes. This is not serious advice. It should be ignored.“Having a large following on TikTok doesn’t automatically make someone an expert on a particular subject, especially one as complex as the Australian tax system.”Ms Wong said following bad tax advice could result in missing out on legitimate entitlements or, worse, big fines or prosecution.“The ATO uses data-driven profiles to identify which claims are realistic and which look like complete nonsense,” she said. “Work-related expenses must be genuinely vital to allow you to perform your job properly.“Exaggerating a claim can have consequences. Making false tax claims could result in hefty fines, a criminal record or even imprisonment. Arguing that you took advice from a finance influencer on TikTok won’t cut it – your tax is your responsibility.”  Ms Wong extends her warning to include ChatGPT and other OpenAI tools which should also be treated with caution.“Nothing can beat the sound advice of a professional tax agent,” she said. “AI tools are only as good as the information you put into them. It may be tempting to ask AI bots for tips, but they are simply not able to compute the nuances of the Australian tax system or your specific circumstances.”Work-related tax tips:Be thorough: Take time to gather your receipts, logbooks and any other evidence to support your work-related expense claims.Check what type of expenses you could claim that are relevant to your work. The ATO has a comprehensive guide to industry and occupation types.Time is on your side. You have until June 30 to purchase any items you need for work and can claim the deductions this year.Don’t rush. Lodging your tax return early does not mean you’ll get your refund first, but could mean you make mistakes.Remember: the cost of seeking professional tax advice for your tax return is tax deductible.

Coercive control is now a crime in NSW — here’s what it looks like, who’s at risk, and what the law means for survivors.Coercive control - what is it? NSW laws are now tougherCoercive control is when someone repeatedly hurts, scares or isolates another person to control them.From July 1, 2024 coercive control became an offence in NSW.The criminal offence captures repeated patterns of physical or non-physical abuse used to hurt, scare, intimidate, threaten or control someone.Unfortunately, the law only applies to abusive behaviour that happens after 1 July, 2024.Coercive control can be hard to spot because it often starts slowly or builds up over time.Coercive and controlling behaviours can be subtle, and the abuser often hides what they are doing from others, making the victim feel like they are going crazy or "making too much of it."The abuse does not have to be physical.Coercive control can happen in other types of relationships. However, the legislation will be tested in current and former intimate partner relationships in the first instance, according to NSW Government information.Research shows that it is most dangerous within intimate relationships and suggests 1 in 4 women and 1 in 14 men have experienced intimate partner violence since age 15.In addition, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men reported experiencing emotional abuse by their spouse or de facto partner since age 15.For women, pregnancy, early motherhood and separation can be times of increased risk for women. The abuse might begin during these times, get worse, or happen more regularly.Coercive control is a factor in 97% of intimate partner murders, according to the NSW Government.The NSW Domestic Violence Death Review Team found nearly 80% of all victims of intimate partner violence homicides that occurred in NSW between 2000 and 2018 were women.Worryingly, coercive control has been strongly linked to intimate partner homicide.The NSW Domestic Violence Death Review Team found that in 97% of intimate partner domestic violence homicide cases, the victim had experienced coercive and controlling behaviours before being killed.Those living with a disability, and the elderly, are also at increased risk of abuse from a range of people, including intimate partners, family members, paid or unpaid carers or other residents in supported accommodation facilities.Coercive control takes many forms, but red flags include:Isolation: A partner consistently prevents the other from seeing family or friends, controls their communication (e.g., monitoring phone calls, social media), or restricts their movements.Intimidation: This could involve threats of physical violence, but also includes threats to harm the victim's loved ones or pets, or using intimidating behaviour to create fear.Control over daily life: The perpetrator dictates what the victim can wear, eat, or how they spend their time. They might make all the decisions about where the victim lives, works, or what they purchase.Economic or financial abuse: This involves controlling the victim's access to money, preventing them from working, or unreasonably restricting their financial independence.Monitoring and surveillance: This can include tracking the victim's movements, checking their devices, or using technology to keep tabs on them.Psychological abuse: Examples include constant belittling, humiliation, gaslighting (making the victim doubt their own sanity), and other manipulative tactics.Shame-based conduct: This involves the perpetrator using shame or humiliation to control the victim. Examples include mocking a partner's weight or appearance, or sulking or becoming angry if sexual advances are rejected.The challenge now comes in the sentencing of those brought before the courts.The first case in NSW to be prosecuted occurred in the Riverina, and came before Magistrate Wright last December.The defendant pleaded guilty to financial abuse, controlling his partner's phone and using padlocked doors to keep his victim isolated.Evidence presented to the Court included a statement to the victim: "This will be your last night, I am going to murder you".In court, NSW Police urged Magistrate Wright to consider the victim's safety."[The offender has] no indication of any remorse," the prosecutor said at the time."[We are] asking you to consider the safety of the complainant as paramount."Magistrate Wright said the 'facts are disturbing' but did not impose gaol time, and instead sentenced the man to an 18-month intensive corrections order to be served in the community.For help, contact 1800RESPECT by calling 1800 737 732, texting 0458 737 732, or using the online chat service.

Recent viral online content, including AI-generated articles and social media posts, has caused confusion among newly licensed Australian drivers by making false claims about extensive, nationwide changes to P-plate laws by the Federal Government.However, it is crucial to understand that the Federal Government does not create or amend road rules. Each state and territory in Australia is responsible for setting its own laws, including those applicable to provisional license holders.Claims circulating online, such as a national extension of the red P1 period to 18 months, a nationwide curfew, a ban on hands-free mobile use for all P-platers, and increased fines across the board, have been identified as false.While these specific nationwide changes are not occurring, New South Wales (NSW) is indeed set to implement some significant changes to its P-plate laws in 2025.Among the most impactful updates expected to come into effect from August 2025 are changes to the provisional licensing period and night driving restrictions. The P1 licence period in NSW is expected to be extended from the current 12 months to 18 months. Additionally, a new night-driving curfew is anticipated for drivers under the age of 216. The August 2025 reforms are also set to impose tighter regulations on mobile phone and digital device usage. Previously permitted hands-free mobile phone functions will no longer be allowed for P-plate drivers under these rules.Beyond the August changes, other modifications to mobile phone rules are planned for NSW in 2025. A 12-month trial will commence allowing P-plate drivers aged 25 and older to use a mounted mobile phone specifically for GPS navigation. This trial aims to assess whether allowing this leads to an increase in accidents.However, for all provisional license holders in NSW, stricter rules on mobile phone use will be implemented. P2 drivers, in particular, will face prohibitions on using any mobile phone function while driving, including hands-free options, even for purposes like navigation or music. The penalties for provisional license holders caught using mobile phones while driving are also set to increase.Other aspects of NSW P-plate laws will remain consistent or see separate adjustments. There will be no changes to the current speed limits for learner and provisional drivers; NSW does not impose reduced speed limits for P-platers. Regarding vehicles, there is no blanket ban on turbocharged vehicles in NSW. Potential changes are also noted regarding passenger restrictions for drivers under 25 on their red Ps, potentially limiting them to one passenger under 21 between 11 pm and 5 am, with exemption processes available.In related news providing cost of living relief, a 20 per cent discount on registration for light vehicles, dealer plates, and caravans will be extended for an additional 12 months in 2025.It is important for provisional drivers across Australia to remember that road rules, including P-plate restrictions on passengers, curfews, and mobile phone use, differ significantly between states and territories. For instance, some states already have passenger limits for P1 drivers under a certain age at all times, while others apply them only during night hours. Similarly, mobile phone rules vary, with some jurisdictions allowing hands-free use for green P2 drivers while NSW prohibits it for all P-platers. Penalties for breaking rules are also determined by each state and territory.These forthcoming changes in NSW in 2025, particularly those expected in August, underscore a continued focus on enhancing safety and responsibility for provisional drivers on the state's roads. Provisional drivers should consult official NSW Government sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding these rule changes.