Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The NT Police no longer holds concerns for the welfare of the 15-year-old boy who went missing this afternoon.
He was located safe and well a short time ago.
The Police would like to thank the members of the public for their assistance.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force holds concerns for the welfare of 15-year-old boy, Christopher, who was last seen within the vicinity of the Berry Springs Reserve swimming area this afternoon.
He was last seen wearing a white t-shirt, Chicago Bulls shorts and no shoes as pictured.
He is of Asian appearance and medium build and may not be receptive to being approached.
Police are urging anyone who may know of his whereabouts or who may have seen him to make contact on 131 444.
Source: NGARKAT HIGHWAY, NGARKAT (Grass Fire)
The Albanese Government is investing more than $2 million dollars to drive Australia’s Winter Paralympians to gold in Italy early next year.
The $2.058m in funding will enable an athlete-focused approach to the delivery of the Australian Team for next year’s Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games.
It will ensure the team’s high-performance, operational, medical, logistical and communications needs are met so athletes perform at their best when it matters most.
The investment will support Paralympics Australia to plan, secure and deliver the following core functions for Milano Cortina 2026, including sports medicine services such as physiotherapy, nutrition and psychology, comprehensive travel arrangements for athletes and their equipment, the procurement of strategically located village and out-of-village accommodation and other extensive operational and logistical requirements.
Australia is aiming to take one of its largest ever Australian Teams to the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Paralympic Games next March and will compete in four sports for the first time: Para-alpine skiing, Para-snowboard, Para-cross country, and Para-biathlon.
The Winter Paralympic Games begin on 6 March.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport, Anika Wells:
“This $2.058m investment reflects the Albanese Government’s deep belief in the power and potential of the Australian Paralympic Movement.
“Milano Cortina 2026 is a critical opportunity to build on Australia’s proud Paralympic legacy and inspire a new generation of Winter Paralympians.
“We aren’t interested in only helping athletes get to the Games, we want them to thrive while there.
“This Milano Cortina funding ensures our athletes have the support they need to prepare and perform in Italy.
“In our first term, the Albanese Government invested $55m into Paralympic high performance – the largest commitment a government has ever made.”
Quotes attributable to Paralympics Australia Chief Executive Cameron Murray:
“On behalf of Paralympics Australia and our Winter athletes, I thank Minister Wells and the Albanese Government for once again stepping up for our Movement.
“This funding is vital to deliver the complex and wide-ranging support needed for a world-class Winter Games campaign. From outfitting and medical services to athlete wellbeing, village operations and critical logistics – every aspect of our team’s preparation and performance has been considered.
“We’re grateful for Minister Wells’ leadership and for the Albanese Government’s sustained and meaningful investment in Para-sport.”
Source: NGARKAT HIGHWAY, NGARKAT (Grass Fire)
CATHERINE KING MINISTER FOR INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORT, REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT: Well, good, okay, thanks, everybody. I’m Catherine King. I’m the Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, and I’m delighted to be here, joined today by my Queensland counterpart, Brent Mickelberg.
We’ve been working very closely together since the election of the Queensland Crisafulli Government to make sure we honour the commitment that Prime Minister Albanese and I, and the Treasurer made just down the road from here in Gympie back in January this year, that we’re going to fix the Bruce Highway.
Our $7.2 billion commitment now also contributed to by the Queensland Government, bringing it up to a $9 billion Bruce Highway safety package. And we’re delighted to be here today in Bauple with the early works package well and truly underway.
What we’re trying to do with this package is to improve, particularly the widening of the road, intersections, so improving behind us, right hand and left hand turning lanes, making sure that we can get this road as safe as we possibly can.
We know on the Bruce Highway, this is unfinished business for both levels of government, where we want to make sure that we see a reduction in road deaths on this highway.
It was a tragedy that last year we saw over 42 people die along the Bruce Highway.
This is affecting communities right the way along the highway, families who have not had loved ones at their Christmas table, communities that are affected every time this happens, emergency service workers as well.
So, this $9 billion package is really starting to get underway.
Announced in January, we announced the $9 billion.
Back in March, I think it was, we announced the fairly first tranche was out for tender, and here we are with construction well and truly underway.
I want to particularly acknowledge the Queensland minister, Brent, for the work that he’s done, but also TMR, I know that many of the people who are working on this road live locally, live in this community, so they are building safety for not just their families, but generations of families to come, I’ll hand over to the state minister.
QUEENSLAND MINISTER FOR TRANSPORT AND MAIN ROADS BRENT MICKELBERG: Thank you very much.
Brett Mickelberg, Minister for Transport and Main Roads.
Well, it’s tremendous to be here today with the Federal Minister, showcasing the work that is happening here on the Bruce Highway.
We’re really, really pleased that we’re able to get work underway to make the Bruce Highway better and safer.
And these works here at Bauple are just one of 16 projects up and down the Bruce Highway part of the $200 million early works package.
I’ve got another $100 million of work going underway in relation to designing future stages of work here on the Bruce Highway.
And we simply cannot accept that the spine of Queensland the Bruce Highway can be dangerous.
As the minister said, 42 people lost their lives on the Bruce Highway last year.
We won’t accept that.
As the Queensland Government, I know the federal government have the same view as well, and our communities expect us to deliver a safe and resilient Bruce Highway, and that’s exactly what we are focused on doing. Hand in hand with the federal government, we’re really pleased that the federal government have listened to our call for 80:20 funding and the $7.2 billion commitment from the federal government, along with the $1.8 billion commitment from the Queensland Government, will make a meaningful difference to making the Bruce Highway safer.
Over 60% of Queensland has used the Bruce Highway every single year, and I know Queenslanders understand how important this road is, both to our economy but also to our communities, and I want to reassure people that the Queensland Government understand that as well.
We’re focused with getting on with the job.
All of the money in this $9 billion package will be spent north of Gympie.
All of it will be spent upgrading safety and capacity on the Bruce Highway.
And I think it’s also important to note that this is just one part of our commitment to the Bruce Highway.
We’re also doing additional work, both in relation to the disaster recovery works after recent disaster impacts, but also building capacity up and down the Bruce Highway on those important areas that simply can’t cope with the volume of traffic on the Bruce Highway.
So it’s a really pleasing day to be able to stand here with the federal minister getting on with the job of building a better Bruce Highway, happy to take any questions.
JOURNALIST: So there’s aspects of widening the lane, but is there actually possibilities to double lane majority of the Bruce Highway?
BRENT MICKELBERG: So this package is about upgrading safety on the Bruce Highway, so things like wide centre line treatment, overtaking lanes, rest areas, intersection upgrades, pavement strengthening, those areas of the highway that are simply unsafe to drive on because the pavement is not up to the required standard.
That’s what this work will deliver.
While we’re doing that, we’re always mindful of ensuring that wherever we build these upgrades, they’re going to be able to future proof as well.
So, in areas where, for example, we might be able to build overtaking lanes off the existing line of traffic to then potentially down the track be duplicated, that’s also areas that the work that is going on within the Bruce Highway upgrade program office to ensure that whatever we do through this massive program effort lasts for the long term as well.
JOURNALIST: How are you determining these areas of the Bruce Highway [indistinct]
BRENT MICKELBERG: Sorry, yeah, great question.
So, one of the commitments we made before the last state election was to re-establish the Bruce Highway Advisory Council.
We’ve had two meetings of the Bruce Highway Advisory Council already, and I’m really pleased the federal minister attended the last meeting I attended and chaired it as well.
We’ve had involvement with the federal government at each of those meetings that we’ve had.
So on the Bruce Highway Advisory Council, we have industry representatives, people like the Queensland Trucking Association, the RACQ local government representation through the Local Government Association of Queensland.
But perhaps even more importantly, we have local representatives from each of the regions that the Bruce Highway passes through, and we’ve used that body to talk about how we can make the Bruce better.
So, it’s not just about building a better Bruce, it’s also about how we can manage the highway better.
And at our last meeting in Rockhampton, we worked through what are the current issues on the Bruce Highway, and how can we best allocate this money to get the best bang for our buck in building a better Bruce.
We literally went through from north to south and looked at each of the different sections of the Bruce Highway.
What are the issues, what are the priorities?
And off the back of that input, the Bruce Highway upgrade program office within my department, have then worked up a package of works.
Now this initial work that we’ve got on with already is projects that had already been advanced and were ready to go.
We just didn’t have funding for so we’re able to pull the trigger on them quite quickly.
The next package of works are things where we’ve had to do the design work and we’re going to get on with the job in relation to fixing those projects as well.
What we want to see is a rolling package of works over coming years, where local contractors in particular, can deliver a lot of this work.
So, a lot of work has been done in relation to the procurement method to ensure that, rather than give all of this money to one big contractor, we can ensure that local involvement is a big part of this program as well.
And we think that’s a really important contributor to our regional economies, but also important message to our communities, as the Minister spoke about, many of the people working on these projects live in these communities, and they understand the challenges, and it’s great to see upgrades which will benefit not just the regional communities, but all Queenslanders who use the Bruce Highway so frequently.
JOURNALIST: And just here locally, these works that are underway now, is there a rough timeline as to when they’ll be complete?
BRENT MICKELBERG: Look, there’s about another 12 months of work here at this particular site.
I think it’s really important to know, and it was remiss me not to say we have tragically lost lives on this section of the Bruce Highway.
So, these upgrades will make the Bruce Highway safer, and we want to see a reduction.
We want to see zero lives lost on the Bruce Highway.
That’s ultimately the goal.
But look, there will be inconvenience to motorists as we do these works.
I want to acknowledge that inconvenience, but I just ask motorists to be patient with us as we work to build a better Bruce Highway.
JOURNALIST: [indistinct]
BRENT MICKELBERG: Yeah, look, I was really pleased to be able to meet with the Tiaro community a couple of months ago now, with John Barounis and the federal member here as well to listen to their concerns in relation to the current highway through Tiaro, it’s well acknowledged that it doesn’t have the capacity and there have been significant safety issues.
And every peak period of the year, whether it’s Christmas or Easter or the school holidays.
Tiaro is a well known bottleneck, and hence why the Tiaro bypass is so necessary.
It’ll also build flood immunity as well into this section of the Bruce Highway.
So, we committed, as part of our 2032 delivery plan to delivering the Tiaro Bypass.
We expect to go to procurement, early stage procurement in early 2026 and we will be working with the federal government in relation to the environmental approvals and future stages for that project.
But I want to make it really, really clear, we’re committed to delivering the Tiaro Bypass.
We know how important it is to build capacity into this part of the Bruce Highway and also to deliver those safety upgrades. It’s not tenable to have heavy vehicles such as those we see passing behind us going through school zones and areas like Tiaro.
You’ve got a pedestrian crossing there, every time someone wants to use it, it creates a traffic jam.
That’s what the Tiaro Bypass will fix, and we’re focused with getting on with the job of delivering those important upgrades.
JOURNALIST: And the notorious Walker Street intersection [indistinct] what was the process of that?
Because originally there was a roundabout.
What’s the update?
BRENT MICKELBERG: Yeah.
Look, we’ve, I think I’ve gone to Walker Street about four times since I became the minister.
Look, the reason it’s such a focal point is tragically, they’ve been lives lost there in recent years, and we’re focused on delivering upgrades to the Walker Street intersection.
It is unsafe as it sits right now, and what do those upgrades look like?
Well, that works currently underway.
That design work is underway.
What I want to see is a solution that will ensure that we don’t have a repeat of multiple lives lost at that intersection, as has happened a couple of years ago.
It’s something that John Barounis, our local state MP, has been campaigning for very strongly, both before the election, and one of the reasons I’ve been there four times since the election is because John is incredibly passionate to deliver this for his community.
We know it’s a genuine safety risk, and we know it is also an important upgrade that will support the Maryborough community.
And we will come back to the community once we have those finalised designs on what it looks like.
JOURNALIST: So, the 60 kilometre is kind of a temporary fix at the moment?
BRENT MICKELBERG: Yeah, look, obviously we make we change speed limits to mitigate risk wherever it’s deemed necessary.
And having lost lives there at that particular intersection in recent times, those decisions have been made with the with the recommender on the recommendations of a road safety experts and engineers.
What I want to see in the long term is a solution that makes that section of road safer, and not just mitigations that reduce the risk right now.
JOURNALIST: Are you able to take questions on something else?
BRENT MICKELBERG: Yeah, okay, or if you’ve got anything else on this? Yep, what else have you got for me?
JOURNALIST: Your response to the CFMEU protests entering their second day?
BRENT MICKELBERG: Well, I think Queenslanders have had enough of the CFMEU and their bullying and thuggery, and that was recognised with the decision of the High Court two days ago.
The CFMEU need to get on with the job of building the infrastructure that we need here in Queensland. Queenslanders are not going to tolerate the intimidation and the approach taken by the CFMEU over recent days.
The Queensland Government are not going to tolerate that behaviour.
It’s one of the reasons that we removed the CFMEU tax, the BPIC CFMEU tax in November, and we have also removed and reintroduced 24 hour right to entry provisions so they cannot be using those disruptive and bullying tactics on job sites.
I will not stand by and watch CFMEU thugs intimidate workers who are just trying to get on with their job, and I will not stand by and watch CFMEU thugs disrupting our commuters in Brisbane.
This is nothing more than a dummy spit by the CFMEU because the court ruled correctly that their conduct was unacceptable, and my message to the CFMEU is, get back on with the job.
JOURNALIST: And how much does each day of this lost work actually cost?
BRENT MICKELBERG: Well, we know there’s a massive program of works required here in Queensland already underway, big jobs, but also smaller jobs as well.
And there is a real cost to the disruptive and bullying behaviour by the CFMEU.
If I look at the Centenary Bridge upgrade, a large project on the western side of Brisbane, the actions of the CFMEU.
And I’m not going to quantify it in terms of dollars, but it is multiple millions of dollars that the CFMEU have added to the cost of that project.
We have had to hire additional security because workers were unsafe and not thought they were unsafe.
They were unsafe.
We have had workers threatened by CFMEU on that job site.
I want to make it really clear, the majority of our construction workers just want to get on with the job and deliver the infrastructure that we need here in Queensland.
It is that small minority of CFMEU thugs who are deliberately trying to destroy productivity here in Queensland and across Australia, and we won’t stand for it.
JOURNALIST: So, you said just that one project is millions of dollars.
How about all those other projects across the state?
A rough figure at all?
BRENT MICKELBERG: Well, as I said, I’m not going to put a dollar figure on it, but you can see through the delays that have occurred under the former government and what we’re dealing with now, the cost is in the many millions of dollars due to the CFMEU’s conduct.
And it is their business model.
Let’s be very clear, they rely on disrupting job sites in order to be able to get the outcomes that they seek.
Now, I have no problem with unions who want to conduct themselves and advocate for their members in accordance with the law.
Unions are an important stakeholder in Queensland’s industrial relations environment, but the CFMEU.
And I will single out the CFMEU, the conduct of the CFMEU relies on bullying and thuggery, and we will not accept that here in Queensland.
JOURNALIST: Do you think anyone will actually feel sympathy towards these workers or just [indistinct]
BRENT MICKELBERG: Well, I suspect anyone sitting in traffic just trying to get to work today in Brisbane or across Queensland will only feel resentment towards the CFMEU for their conduct, and let’s be clear, they did it yesterday.
They tried to make their point yesterday.
They’re going to do it again today, and no doubt, they’ll continue with this campaign of trying to disrupt and cause fear in our community.
We’ve seen instances where people have been assaulted on job sites by CFMEU thugs in recent months here in Queensland, we won’t stand by and let this continue.
It’s why we took action quickly upon forming government, and we’ll continue to ensure that our job sites are safe and that the community are able to go about their business, getting to work, getting on with the job, just as they should be able to.
And if the CFMEU are genuinely committed to trying to build the things that we need here in Queensland, the message is just get on with the job.
Get back on the tools. Get on with the job, and Queenslanders will recognise that as it sits right now, I think all they’re doing is driving people away from their course.
JOURNALIST: [indistinct]
BRENT MICKELBERG: Look, we have an ongoing conversation with the federal government in relation to the priorities that we are delivering through the program of works here in Queensland.
As I made it clear on Tuesday when I spoke about the format that QTRIP will be reported in, we are making some changes in order to drive better value for money for the taxpayer, and we’re working collaboratively with the federal government to deliver projects here in Queensland, but we also deliver a lot of projects that are not federally funded as well.
And ultimately, my job as the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, is to ensure that we deliver on those priorities, those commitments we took to the Queensland public before the last election, things like the Bruce Highway upgrade program, the Olympics infrastructure required to deliver a successful games in 2032 in relation to the transport projects, that’s my focus, and we’ve been very clear with Queenslanders that that will require us to make some hard decisions in relation to potentially delaying projects that we might have otherwise done.
But I want to make it really clear there will be no cuts in QTRIP next week.
What we need to do is manage a program.
We commissioned an independent reviewer, Rodd Staples to give us advice on the best way to deliver the significant program of works here in Queensland.
QTRIP next week will be the largest QTRIP Queensland’s ever seen.
So that that is without doubt, and it will only grow in coming years, as well as we need to build more as we approach 2032 we’ve made some commitments in relation to the Bruce Highway here.
We’ve said that this work will be done, and we want it done as soon as possible, but that, but if everything is a priority, nothing is a priority, and my job as the Minister of Transport and Main Roads is to manage all of those works, ensuring that we address the critical concerns and those commitments we made, and we’ll be open and transparent with Queenslanders as we do that.
JOURNALIST: For the project, should there be details [indistinct]?
BRENT MICKELBERG: Well, in relation to I take you referring to the changes we’ve made in QTRIP?
So what we’ve one of the recommendations we received was that we needed to drive better competition, better competitive tension in the pre-tendering stage, or in the tendering stage.
Once a contract is awarded, we’re going to publish that number, and Queenslanders will be able to see that in black and white on QTRIP.
But what we don’t want to do is signal to contractors that we’re prepared to pay a certain amount.
No one goes and to a builder and says, Hey, I’ve got $500,000 to build new house.
What can you build for me?
You say, I’d like a four bedroom house with two bathrooms.
What’s the cost?
And that’s what we’ve been doing today.
We’ve been saying, Hey, I’ve got $500,000 to build a new house.
What can you build for me?
That’s not where we need to be.
And the advice that we received from Rodd Staples was the that was that this would introduce better competitive tension.
We’re still going to be signalling to the market that this is the kind of job that they’ll be able to compete for, that this sits within the price bracket of jobs and capability that they’re capable of bidding on, and we’re still going to be engaging with industry face to face as we as we have done over recent months as well.
So this is just one part of trying to restore value for money for the taxpayer, respecting taxpayer, respecting taxpayer dollars.
And my job, we made some really clear commitments around being open and transparent.
I’ll be publishing the contracted amount for these projects.
You’ll see it next week in QTRIP.
But what I’m not going to do is destroy value for money for the taxpayer by signalling to the market beforehand that we’re prepared to pay more than they might otherwise be able to build some of these jobs for.
JOURNALIST: For e-scooters, RACQ has made a submission to the state’s e-mobility safety inquiry, calling on the government to urgently address safety concerns.
What’s your response to this submission?
BRENT MICKELBERG: Well, I welcome RACQ’s submission to the e-mobility inquiry.
The reason we established the inquiry is it’s very clear there’s considerable community concern, whether it’s e-bikes or e-scooters or other e-mobility devices.
Community concern in Queensland is justified.
Tragically, eight people lost their lives using these devices on Queensland footpaths and roads last year, and we’ve seen a considerable increase in the number of people being injured as well, over 100% increase between 2021 and 2024 so we had to do something different.
This inquiry is about listening to the voices of the community.
RACQ are a really important stakeholder when it comes to the use of these devices, and obviously, road safety matters, and I welcome their submission, but so too, and I’d encourage those, albeit submissions close today, but I would encourage people to make a submission to the inquiry, whether it is the family who’s concerned about what it might mean for their children getting to and from school, or medical experts who have had to deal with the fall out of injuries and potentially fatalities as a consequence of e-mobility devices.
Anyone who has an opinion in relation to this matter should make a submission to the e-mobility inquiry.
We will also, after those submissions have been received, be doing public hearings up and down the Queensland coast and across Queensland to ensure that people have an opportunity to have their say.
We’ll listen to those recommendations of the committee and we’ll act on them when we receive them, and I think that’s what Queenslanders expect.
JOURNALIST: I just have one more question, yeah, on the secret polling.
So over half a million dollars to spend on behalf of research [indistinct].
Why did the government spend more than half a million dollars on secret polling [indistinct]?
BRENT MICKELBERG: Look, I think it’s really important that we are listening to the voices of Queenslanders, and part of that is doing quantitative research and qualitative research.
Another part is things like the parliamentary inquiry in relation to e-mobility I just mentioned.
So, we will use whatever tools are available to us to listen to the voices of Queenslanders and then act on them.
This is one tool, but it’s only one part of the way that Queensland Government listen to the community and then act on their concerns,
JOURNALIST: [indistinct] pushing the Labor party [indistinct] to release their results to the market research.
Do you think that the Crisafulli government should do the same?
BRENT MICKELBERG: Well, we made it very clear that we intend to be open and transparent with Queenslanders.
The premier has made that very clear to me as the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, that wherever possible, we should be releasing information, and we’re committed to do that.
JOURNALIST: Would you be able to provide a response on those CFMEU [indistinct]
CATHERINE KING: Yeah, well, certainly, you know, we were very pleased, and you would have seen Amanda Rishworth, the Industrial Relations Minister.
We’ve welcomed the High Court decision, which has upheld the legislative basis on which the Commonwealth has moved to put the CFMEU into administration.
We have no tolerance for illegal activity within the union movement, and certainly not on any of our building sites.
I understand that people are not happy about that decision, but that is the decision of the High Court, and it allows now the administrator to get on with their job with surety, because we want people to have safe workplaces.
We want people to come into the construction industry.
We want to grow the industry.
We want it to be a place where people get decent pay and conditions, but we don’t want it to be a hotbed for illegal activity, for bullying or behaviour that we have seen, and what has caused the CFMEU to be put into administration in the first place.
So, my message really clearly, is that, you know, construction workers want jobs.
They want safe, secure jobs.
They want to go home to their families.
They don’t want to see the sort of activity we saw from the CFMEU that put it into administration in the first place.
And protesting the decision of a high court?
Well, that’s a decision for the people who are protesting, but I don’t think that it’s particularly helpful in getting the building industry back into actually being an industry that is a safe, secure and great place for people to work.
JOURNALIST: What funding will the federal government provide for transport and infrastructure [indistinct]
CATHERINE KING: Well, we are already providing $27 billion of infrastructure here in Queensland, more than any other state in the country.
And then, in addition to that, our $3.4 billion package of games infrastructure is being delivered as well.
On transport infrastructure, of that $27 billion there’s $12 billion already going into transport infrastructure.
We don’t have a budget until next year.
States and territories across the country continue to put their transport bids to us, and we’ll work with state governments on that, but we’re already doing a lot here in Queensland.
JOURNALIST: I just have some questions from Canberra.
Is the government happy with how the social media age range trial is working?
CATHERINE KING: Well, obviously, we’ve seen reports today around the social media trial that will now go to the E-Safety Commissioner for her to have a look at we do think, as you’ve heard us say, you know, this is a really important commitment that we have made, to really clean up the safety of social media for particularly young people and our teenagers.
And that work is continuing, but the trial work, the results of that will now go to the E-Safety Commissioner, and we’ll have more to say once she’s had a look at it.
JOURNALIST: After that trial has been complete, is it still the same plan to have that implemented by December?
CATHERINE KING: Certainly, that’s my understanding from the Minister, but you’d need to direct that question directly to Minister Wells the Minister for Communication.
JOURNALIST: And now we discuss some questions about Rex.
CATHERINE KING: Yep.
JOURNALIST: How close do you think we are to finding a successful [indistinct] Rex?
CATHERINE KING: Well, we know that it’s progressing really positively in terms of the administration.
They have narrowed the bidders in terms of the commercial bidders for Rex, but they have asked the federal court for some additional time to get that work finalised.
That will be a matter for the federal court, in order to make sure that that actually occurs, we’ll await the decision of the federal court, but it has been, as I understand it, from the administrators, progressing positively.
JOURNALIST: And if we take that kind of turn, how close is the government to taking over and maybe even bailing it out?
CATHERINE KING: Well, as we’ve said, really clearly, we’re in a voluntary administration process at the moment.
What we have said, you know, it’s unusual for a government to engage itself in an administration of what is a private company, but we know how important Rex is to regional aviation.
In some areas, it is the only airline that actually flies in to a community, and so we have stepped in to assist in the administration to get an outcome.
Our preference has always been for a commercial outcome, and that’s what the administration is aimed to.
But we have clearly said, if that is not able to be delivered, we will then step in, but we’re still in the process of the voluntary administration and seeking a commercial outcome at the moment.
JOURNALIST: And what do you expect Rex 2.0 to look like?
CATHERINE KING: Well, I want to see it continue to fly into the regions.
I’d like to see at some point it expand its services.
But at the moment, we’re in the decision making process of a voluntary administration to keep Rex going, but what the Commonwealth has been at pains to do is ensure that we provided a guarantee to Rex passengers, that they could continue looking with surety to continue to get those services.
And I’m incredibly grateful to the many loyal Rex customers who continue to use the airline, continue to book with surety, because that has allowed the possibility of a commercial opportunity for Rex to continue, and we’re really pleased to have been able to provide that continue to give my message that that guarantee is in place.
Continue to book with surety as we work our way through the administration process.
JOURNALIST: And do you see issues arising with the airline’s aging fleet and Saab aircraft?
Quite a few have been out of service for a while?
CATHERINE KING: Yeah, well, obviously that is one of the issues that any potential bidder has had to consider.
I think the aging fleet, you know, Saabs are aging everywhere, so that is certainly one of the issues that any potential bidder has had to put into place, about what does fleet extension and fleet renewal – what does that look like? And that’s really been an important part, I know of the administrators assessing each of the bids as they’ve come forward.
ENDS
Source: Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions
Outstanding achievers in local government have been recognised today, with 13 category winners announced for the 2025 National Awards for Local Government.
Now in their 39th year, the awards celebrate inspirational service delivery, acknowledging the important role local government plays in improving the daily lives of Australians.
Ninety-five local governing bodies across Australia made a total of 192 submissions for projects addressing critical topics such as regional growth, road safety and environmental sustainability.
Joining these topics as a category for the first time this year was affordable housing, to recognise projects addressing housing needs for communities.
The outstanding rural and remote council category was also new this year, to honour the achievements of smaller remote or rural councils with a population of 15,000 people or less, who entered any of the other 12 award categories.
The list of this year’s category winners is below, with more details on each project available at www.infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/local-government/national-awards-local-government.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain MP:
“This year saw the most submissions ever received in the history of these awards, showcasing the hard work of local governments in delivering targeted, quality services to their communities – even in the face of adversity like natural disasters.
“I’d like to congratulate the category winners, and all the applicants, for this year’s local government awards.
“Your projects and the enormous efforts behind them are having real and positive impacts for communities, bringing them together and elevating local amenity.”
2025 National Awards for Local Government category winners:
| Category | Winning Council | Winning project name |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People’s Recognition | West Arnhem Regional Council | West Arnhem Youth Leadership Summit |
| Addressing Violence against Women and Children | City of Stirling | Naala Djookan Healing Centre |
| Affordable Housing | Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council | Palm Island Housing Investment Scheme |
| Arts and Culture | City of Gosnells | 2024 Fusion Food and Culture Festival |
| Cohesive Communities | City of Stirling | Walking Together Local Convos |
| Disaster Readiness and Recovery | City of Wanneroo | Mariginiup Bushfire – From preparedness to recovery, a community-first approach |
| Environmental Sustainability | Town of Victoria Park | Bird Waterers – Cockitroughs |
| Outstanding Rural and Remote Council |
Parkes Shire Council | Fleet Optimisation and Innovation – A smarter approach to asset management |
| Productivity through Infrastructure | City of Stirling | Hamersley Public Golf Course Redevelopment |
| Regional Growth | Shire of Murray | The Exchange Hotel, Pinjarra |
| Road Safety | Blacktown City Council | Risks of NOT planting trees along our streets |
| Women in Local Government | City of Wanneroo | Kirsten Thrush & Katie Russell – Leading the disaster recovery from Mariginiup Bushfire |
| Workforce and Skills | Burwood Council | Breaking Barriers – Growing the Learn to Swim workforce |
Photographs from the award ceremony available here: https://communicationsgovau.box.com/s/j5ljark5bnehu4au5pn6zwlzx7k0vxlg
Source: Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions
The Albanese and Allan Labor Governments are one step closer to delivering safer and faster journeys for people living in Clyde North, Cranbourne North and Berwick.
The contract award to upgrade the Thompsons Road and Berwick-Cranbourne Road intersection in Melbourne’s south east has been announced.
Victorian family owned and operated Whelans Group Investments was the successful bidder for the project that will cut congestion and improve traffic flow for the 47,000 motorists that use the busy intersection every day.
The upgrade will remove the current roundabout and replace the intersection with traffic lights, and enhance bus infrastructure, improving driving conditions and motorists’ safety.
Walking and cycling paths will also be built along the intersection upgrade, offering safer travel options for all road users.
Over the coming months, crews will undertake site investigations, utility relocation and site establishment works, paving the way for major construction to begin later in the year and to be completed in mid-2027.
The upgrade will benefit local jobs, creating 120 direct jobs and 297 indirect jobs during these works.
The project is in addition to already completed projects in Melbourne’s south east, including upgrades to Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road, Pound Road West and Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road and Hall Road which have all helped to cut congestion for motorists and busy families.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
“This busy roundabout will be transformed with traffic lights, bus bays and footpaths which will have a significant flow on effect for everyone using the intersection.”
Quotes attributable to Acting Victorian Minister for Transport Infrastructure Sonya Kilkenny:
“As Melbourne’s south east continues to grow, we are continuing to make critical investments on our road and rail networks to cut congestion and slash travel times for families.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Bruce Julian Hill:
“Victoria was totally screwed for a decade by the Liberals on infrastructure funding.
“The Federal Labor Government is treating Victorians fairly by investing in infrastructure projects that are priorities for local communities.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Holt Cassandra Fernando:
“As someone who lives in this community, I know just how frustrating this intersection can be.
“This upgrade will make a real difference for local families with safer, faster, and more reliable journeys through Clyde North.”
Quotes attributable to State Member for Cranbourne Pauline Richards:
“Clyde, Cranbourne and Narre Warren South are great destinations for young families to live in and this upgrade will ensure they’re able to get on with their lives instead of waiting in traffic.”
Quotes attributable to State Member for Narre Warren South Gary Maas:
“Works are set to begin to remove this intersection which will improve traffic flow and cut congestion.”
Source: Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions
**CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY**
Thank you, Angela for your kind introduction, and congratulations to you and your team on organising this important event for the maritime industry.
I begin by respectfully acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we meet today.
I pay my respects to their Elders past and present, and I extend that respect to any and all First Nations people joining us today.
Australia’s First Nations people were our first maritime traders.
This rich and deep history included trade with Macassan ships from Indonesia along our Northern frontier, and seafaring trade in the Torres Strait, and along the coast of Papua New Guinea. Our modern maritime industry builds on this tradition.
I’d also like to acknowledge, from the Victorian Government, Melissa Horne MP, Minister for Health Infrastructure, Ports and Freight, and Roads and Road Safety.
And Professor Rod Sims AO, from the Crawford School of Public Policy at the ANU – thank you for joining us today.
The theme of this Summit is ‘progress’ and we come together on the International Day of the Seafarer.
It couldn’t be more timely given the current geopolitical state of the world and the imperative of decarbonisation.
These are the realities of our times.
It is more important than ever for Australia to have a strong and sovereign maritime sector, and for us to embrace both the challenges and the opportunities of decarbonisation.
The maritime industry is absolutely vital for Australia’s prosperity.
As the lyrics of our national anthem state, ours is a nation ‘girt by sea’.
Our coastline extends across some 60,000 kilometres and includes 12,000 islands.
It is the great sea roads and maritime highways leading from our shores that connect Australia with the world, and centres us in the Asia-Pacific region.
Our society and economy depend utterly on the ships that ply these routes.
These are our supply chains.
Shipping is responsible for over 99 per cent of our nation’s international trade.
We are the fifth largest user of shipping services in the world, and the world’s largest bulk commodities exporter.
Our ports handle over 1.6 billion tonnes of cargo, and welcome 29,000 visits every year from international trading ships.
A substantial proportion of our domestic freight also depends on coastal shipping.
And let’s not forget that the maritime sector is an important employer – ports activities alone account for an extraordinary one in 20 jobs in our country.
This morning, I’d like to give you an overview of what our government is doing to support your vital industry.
The Prime Minister has made clear a major focus this term would be supporting industries across the economy to drive productivity, and to do that while also lifting job security and job quality.
In the lead up to the Treasurer’s upcoming Reform Roundtable, I intend to host a meeting with key transport and logistics industry representatives, including the maritime sector, to discuss ways to grow the economy and increase productivity.
We want to build an economy where growth, wages and productivity rise together.
And we are committed to modernising Australia’s maritime sector; including through its regulatory framework.
The Shipping Registration Act came into being in 1981, in very different times.
Modernising it is another of our Government’s priorities, to ensure it is fit for purpose and supports the long-term sustainability of an Australian strategic fleet.
Our independent review of the Shipping Registration Act is now complete.
I’d like to thank its leaders — Former Public Service Commissioner Lynelle Briggs, and Nicholas Gaskell, Emeritus Professor of Maritime and Commercial Law at the University of Queensland — for their efforts.
Lynelle and Nick conducted comprehensive stakeholder consultation as part of their review, and they have incorporated extensive feedback into their report.
They are continuing with their parallel review of the Coastal Trading Act 2012, which is due to report later this year.
Another crucial step we are taking to improve maritime resilience and capability is the establishment of a strategic fleet ― 12 Australian flagged and crewed vessels that will enable the movement of critical cargo during crises and emergencies.
Our Government committed funding in the 2024-25 Budget to establish a five-year Strategic Fleet Pilot Program comprising three vessels.
These will be privately owned, commercially operated and will be available to the Australian Government to requisition in times of need.
Tenders for the Pilot program are currently being evaluated through a competitive, open and transparent process that will ensure the government achieves value for money.
The Strategic Fleet provides the opportunity for growth and transformation in Australia’s maritime sector in a way that supports Australia’s economic prosperity, security and way of life well into the future.
The Pilot will provide an evidence-base for future proposals to expand the fleet and fully deliver on our Government’s commitment.
Once procurement for the Pilot Fleet is complete we will make a public announcement regarding the outcome and indicative timing for the first vessels on the water.
Industry has been heavily involved in shaping the government’s Strategic Fleet policy through consultation processes, and this engagement will continue in the implementation stage.
Our domestic policy needs to progress our national interests, and it also needs to be in-step with global developments.
Australia’s presence at International Maritime Organisation enables this.
Shipping is by nature a global industry, and Australia’s interests are represented in this world forum.
Australia’s presence at the IMO also enables our engagement with international efforts to reduce emissions and prevent ship-based pollution of all kinds.
During our first term, our Government supported the IMO to adopt a Revised Strategy on the Reduction of Emissions from Ships, and reach Net Zero emissions by 2050.
The Strategy’s decarbonisation pathway includes mid‑term measures such as annual fuel intensity targets, a greenhouse gas emissions economic measure, and a reward system for sustainable fuel adoption.
It sets target reductions of 30 per cent by 2030 and 80 per cent by 2040 compared to 2008 levels, as well as a target of 10 percent for the uptake of zero-emission fuels by 2030.
In April, the IMO made the historic decision to circulate measures that will achieve these targets.
Interestingly, the measures also include a ‘feebate’ mechanism that will subsidise green maritime fuels, which supports our Government’s Low Carbon Liquid Fuels policy.
As our Government was in caretaker mode in April, Australia abstained from voting on these measures at the time.
They will be further considered by IMO in October, and if agreed will establish the world’s first ever truly international carbon market.
The Government is carefully considering what role it will play in October, and I understand that my department is hosting a roundtable with industry later this week to continue the conversation on how the measures might impact industry.
The Secretary-General of the IMO is also visiting Australia in August and I hope to catch up with him to discuss Australia’s maritime interests.
The year 2030, the deadline for the first of the IMO’s targets, is not that far away.
Our government recognised this in our first term, and we laid plans to ensure that Australia’s maritime industry is prepared for the future, ready to contribute to our national emissions targets, and able to thrive in a decarbonised global economy.
Now in our second term, we have a strong mandate to continue the work we’ve started.
There are challenges to meet on the road to decarbonisation, but also incredible opportunities in new jobs and new industries.
Our Government’s ambition for a Future Made in Australia will form a comprehensive, coordinated and practical strategy to seize all the benefits on offer.
As part of the Future Made in Australia plan, the Government is fast-tracking support for our nation’s growing domestic Low Carbon Liquid Fuels, or LCLFs.
In March, we announced the delivery of $250 million to accelerate the pace of Australia’s growing domestic LCLF industry.
This funding is part of the $1.7 billion Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund, and is being provided as grants to support pre-commercial innovation, demonstration and deployment.
Australia has all the ingredients to support a thriving biofuels sector – especially if the IMO measure for a global subsidy is adopted and provided.
We have an abundance of renewable energy resources and significant refining and port infrastructure.
We have the potential to grow LCLF production for domestic consumption and for export.
And our Government is committed to supporting a sovereign biofuel industry that Australia controls, and which serves our interests.
Our Government is committed to maritime decarbonisation, as part of our drive to reach our legislated target of Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Our Government will soon release its Net Zero Plan for the economy, along with six sector-decarbonisation plans.
Amongst these sector plans is one for the Transport and Infrastructure Net Zero Roadmap.
And within that plan is one that speaks specifically to the unique challenges and opportunities of the maritime industry – the Maritime Emissions Reduction National Action Plan, or MERNAP for short.
The MERNAP will outline how we aim to support Australia’s national emissions reduction targets, contribute to the global decarbonisation of shipping, and future-proof the Australian maritime sector to avoid costly and disruptive transitions later.
It will ensure an equitable transition, particularly for the maritime workforce, and it will safeguard jobs and skills for the future.
Our vision is that by 2050, Australia will fully leverage the global maritime decarbonisation transition, for the benefit of our ports, vessels, and the broader energy sector.
Work on the MERNAP began in 2023-24, with an industry consultation process, and the MERNAP Consultative Group has played a vital role in shaping this action plan.
They engaged with us on topics such as:
I’d like to thank those stakeholders who were part of the group, and especially Angela Gilham and MIAL for the key role they’ve played in this process.
I am now considering the MERNAP, and the timing of its release.
Our next step will be to develop an implementation plan to progress the MERNAP’s proposed action items.
Our Government will continue to progress reform in the maritime sector. We must.
There are so many cross currents reshaping global maritime trade right now, and addressing these requires comprehensive and future-focused action.
No doubt these issues ― and the opportunities ― facing the sector will be discussed at length in coming days, and I wish you well in these.
Thank you once again for the invitation to speak this morning.
I look forward to working with all industry stakeholders in our government’s second term.
Source: Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions
The Albanese Government is bringing forward over $1.7 billion in untied financial assistance to ensure councils nationwide have funds ready to deliver essential local services which benefit every community.
This represents 50 per cent of the Financial Assistant Grant allocations for 2025-26, and will be paid before 30 June to flow onto councils as soon as possible – ensuring shovel-ready projects and essential services continue seamlessly.
This early payment of untied funding is welcome news for all councils, and particularly critical for those facing cash flow pressures or recovering from recent extreme weather, ensuring they can continue to deliver for their communities.
Over the last 40 years the Australian Government has invested over $70 billion in local government through the Financial Assistance Grant Program alone – a partnership as longstanding as it is substantial.
Importantly, providing this funding in an untied manner allows local governments to be flexible and allocate it to the community’s priorities as they see fit.
Local governments nationwide are further supported through other programs such as the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, the Roads to Recovery Program and the Growing Regions Program.
Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
“The Australian Government strives to be a reliable and responsive partner to local governments all around our country.
“That’s why we’re bringing forward this funding to support each and every council.
“By providing this financial assistance early, we’re providing certainty to councils that they can deliver on the priorities that matter most to their communities.”
Quotes attributable to Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Minister Kristy McBain:
“The Albanese Government remains committed to supporting local governments to ensure communities are receiving essential services, in particular when they are recovering from extreme weather.
“Local governments are the beating heart of Australia. In all seasons and weather, they make sure local services continue so Australians can enjoy a better quality of life.
“This funding will ensure they can get on with the jobs they do best, without any unnecessary delays.”
Source: Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions
An investment of more than $30 million to upgrade one of South Australia’s most important airports has been completed, allowing vital services to the Whyalla region to continue.
Funded by the Australian ($16.2 million) and South Australian ($13.8 million) governments, the upgrade strengthened the airport’s runway to allow larger aircraft to service the region.
Whyalla City Council funded an additional $2.4 million of the works, which also included replacing the existing airfield lighting system.
The completion of works will allow new 74-seat Q400 aircraft to operate on Whyalla routes, allowing for faster flight times and increased passenger numbers.
The South Australian Government recently established the Whyalla Special Economic Zone to drive local industry involvement in government projects, such as the Whyalla Airport runway upgrade.
Delivered by Fulton Hogan, the project used 90 per cent local construction materials and utilised a total workforce of approximately 234 people, 110 of whom were Whyalla locals.
Quotes attributable to South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas:
“This investment is a demonstration of our confidence in Whyalla’s long-term future.
“Whyalla Airport services more than 50,000 passengers every year, many of them workers, and this upgrade will ensure the airport can continue its important work.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
“These upgrades at Whyalla Airport will keep local communities connected, bring visitors in and help maintain a strong regional aviation network for Australia.
“That’s why the Albanese Government has proudly invested $16.2 million to this project, partnering with the state and local government to deliver for the Whyalla region.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Industry and Innovation Minister Tim Ayres:
“As well as keeping locals better connected in the long term, this upgrade for Whyalla Airport injected around $4 million directly into the region’s economy.
“It also provided welcome construction jobs while drawing on local materials, providing a major boost for the area.”
Quotes attributable to South Australian Infrastructure and Transport Minister Tom Koutsantonis:
“This upgrade was imperative to ensure commercial air travel could continue to this facility.
“Without it, there would have been significant damage to the businesses that rely on FIFO workers, as well as tourism operators, among others.
“Whyalla is clearly a major priority of this Government, and the importance of a well-functioning access point to and from the city cannot be overstated.”
Quotes attributable to South Australian Senator Karen Grogan:
“Whyalla Airport brings in tourists, FIFO workers and a range of essential services – making it a critical gateway for the region’s prosperity.
“It is one of the largest regional airports in South Australia and our Government is proud to have invested in its future.”
Quotes attributable to State Member for Giles Eddie Hughes:
“Once again the Federal and State Labor Governments demonstrate their commitment to Whyalla and the Northern Spencer Gulf by partnering to fund the essential upgrade of the Whyalla Airport.
“Without that investment we would have lost vital commercial flights between Whyalla and Adelaide, not to mention the provision of medical services would have been seriously degraded not just in Whyalla but also in Port Augusta.
“It’s great to see the upgrade delivered on time, on budget and employing locals.”
Quotes attributable to City of Whyalla Mayor Phill Stone:
“I’d like to thank the Albanese and Malinauskas governments for their unprecedented financial support of Whyalla’s steelworks and airport, thereby recognising the significance of our city in the prosperity of both the state and the entire nation.
“The airport runway project has provided a major injection for local contractors and employees throughout its construction and will continue to benefit the Whyalla economy for decades to come.”
Quotes attributable to QantasLink CEO Rachel Yangoyan:
“This investment by Federal, State and local governments not only supports the future of air travel in Whyalla, but also unlocks new opportunities for economic growth across the region.
“Our investment in an all-Q400 fleet means larger aircraft flying to and from Whyalla, providing more seats and a faster, more comfortable journey for customers.”
Quotes attributable to Peter Curl, Fulton Hogan CEO – Infrastructure Services:
“We’ve been proud to deliver this project for Whyalla, a community that has shown us overwhelming support.
“We believe in creating, connecting, and caring for communities and our focus has been to prioritise working with local businesses and workforce. We have also worked closely with the Council on several community-focused projects to show our appreciation to the community of Whyalla.”
Source: Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions
Four First Nations artworks from the National Collection will travel to Katherine in the Northern Territory and be displayed alongside local creations as part of the Albanese Labor Government’s Sharing the National Collection program.
The Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre will exhibit the works for two years.
The not-for-profit centre is a cultural development hub that hosts arts, cultural and community events managed by local artists and community leaders.
The loan includes:
Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the latest loan demonstrated how the program was getting works out of Canberra to all corners of Australia.
“At any point 98 per cent of the national collection is held in storage. Our program is giving hundreds of thousands of Australians a chance to see and experience these culturally significant works.
“What better place could there be for these unique works of art to be displayed than in the beautiful surrounds of Katherine.”
Member for Lingiari, Marion Scrymgour said the thought-provoking installation would be a welcome addition to the community in Katherine.
“Bringing these artworks from the National Collection to Katherine not only provides a broader cultural experience for locals and visitors but will also provide opportunities for more exposure for local artists as they display their art alongside this Collection.
“The Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Art and Culture Centre is the perfect place to showcase these incredible artworks.”
Director of the National Gallery of Australia, Dr Nick Mitzevich, said the loan was a chance to experience unique aspects of First Nations art and culture.
“The partnership with Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre in Katherine showcases artistry from First Nations leaders.
“The Sharing the National Collection program offers opportunities to take works of art by First Nations communities to new regions across Australia – inviting new audiences to share in the richness of ongoing cultural practice.”
Director of the Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre, Clare Armitage, said the loan was an exciting opportunity for the centre.
“The Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre is honoured to be a part of the Sharing the National Collection program.
“The Big Rivers Region of the Northern Territory is one of the most culturally and linguistically diverse areas on earth, and it is very special for us to be working with the National Gallery of Australia for the first time to share these artworks with our communities.”
Sharing the National Collection is part of Revive, Australia’s national cultural policy. The program has provided $11.8m over four years to fund the costs of transporting, installing and insuring works in the national art collection so that they can be seen right across the country.
Regional and suburban galleries can register their interest in the loan program here.