Month: October 2025

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Firearms seized as Tea Tree burglary investigations continue

Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

Firearms seized as Tea Tree burglary investigations continue

Thursday, 2 October 2025 – 11:24 am.

Police have seized 15 firearms and made three fresh arrests as investigations continue into a burglary at Tea Tree property last week in which rifles, shotguns and ammunition were allegedly stolen.
Officers from Bridgewater Criminal Investigation Branch, with the assistance of Glenorchy CIB, Operation Saturate, Southern Drugs and Firearms Unit and specialist resources conducted searches at properties across greater Hobart on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Eight firearms, identified by police as being stolen from Tea Tree, were seized from a property on Tuesday.
Police have now recovered 11 of the allegedly stolen firearms and seized four other firearms, not related to the original burglary.
Three males – aged 17, 19 and 23 – have been arrested this week and detained for court.
A 19-year-old man from Old Beach has been charged with:• Unlawful trafficking in firearms• Possession of stolen firearms• Breach of Police Family Violence Order
A 17-year-old boy has been charged with:• Unlawful trafficking in firearms• Trafficking in controlled substance• Possess a firearm to which a firearms licence may not be issued• Possess ammunition when not the holder of the appropriate firearm licence• Motor vehicle stealing• Possess controlled plant or its products• Possess a controlled drug• Possession of stolen firearms
A 23-year-old man from Gagebrook has been charged with contravene conditions of a court notice.
Last week, Tasmania Police made multiple arrests as part of their investigations into the firearms burglary which occurred on Wednesday, September 24. Eight people in total, ranging in ages from 17 to 26, were charged last week.
Police are determined to remove illegal firearms from the community.
If anyone has information regarding the recent burglary at Tea Tree or, is approached by someone attempting to sell or dispose of firearms, please contact police on 131 444.
Information on illegal firearms can also be supplied anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au

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Tree changers urged to get fire ready

Source:

Many Melburnians have left the city behind and embraced everything our regional areas have to offer in recent years, but CFA is urging our tree changers to ensure they’re fire ready.

According to the Regional Movers Index migration from Australia’s capital cities to the regions has remained high since the pandemic and in the quarter ending 30 June 2025, Melburnians made up 35 percent of all Australians moving to regional areas.  

The slower pace of life, access to nature, and close communities are all among the benefits of making a tree change however, one of the risks is not being prepared for fires.  

With forecasts pointing towards a challenging fire season across many parts of Victoria and with recent research showing concerning levels of complacency, CFA is urging especially those that may have never had to prepare before to start clearing their properties.  

Greg Staib is a CFA volunteer at Raglan Fire Brigade who was originally from Hawthorn in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs before moving to Ballarat and then Raglan in 2022.  

He joined the local CFA as a way of ensuring he understood the risks of living in the area and completed his General Fire Fighting training just before the 2024 Bayindeen fires.  

“That was definitely a sobering experience,” he said.  

“It really drove home to me how important being fire ready was and learning about the risks of the area you have chosen to live in.” 

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said fire safety is everyone’s responsibility.  

“We can’t have a truck in every driveway,” he said.  

“By doing things now like clearing your gutters, pruning trees, moving woodpiles, and mowing grass you really help our firefighters but you also give yourself and your property the best chance for survival. 

“Our recent bushfire community survey found that 85 per cent of residents in high-risk bushfire areas still don’t have a written bushfire survival plan, and 50 per cent perceived the threat of bushfire to be small or very small.   

“That complacency is concerning, especially with forecasts pointing to a challenging fire season across many parts of Victoria.”  

Kalista Fire Brigade volunteer Talor Robertson moved to a heavily forested block of land in the area from a “concrete box” in Collingwood in 2023.  

He joined CFA after feeling as though he had a responsibility to help protect the community living in a bushfire risk area.  

“It comes with living out here,” he said.  

“It’s not the same as living in Melbourne and people need to be aware of that before moving.”  

Take the following actions to prepare yourself and your property:   

  • Register your burn off. The quickest and easiest way is by visiting the Fire Permits Victoria website at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au/notify, or call Triple Zero Victoria on 1800 688 511.   

CFA is holding a “Get Fire Ready” initiative in October, encouraging all Victorians to engage with local brigades to seek out information this coming fire season and to connect with their local CFA brigade. 

There will be activities across the state beginning with the weekend of 4-5 October. Find out more by visiting cfa.vic.gov.au/about-us/cfa-events/get-fire-ready.  

Submitted by CFA Media
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EPIRB activation sparks rescue operation at Cradle Mountain

Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

EPIRB activation sparks rescue operation at Cradle Mountain

Thursday, 2 October 2025 – 8:06 am.

An operation is underway in Cradle Mountain National Park to rescue two bushwalkers who activated a personal location device last night.The device was activated about 7:15pm. An attempt was made to reach the area with the helicopter last night, but weather conditions resulted in the deployment being cancelled.The weather conditions are being assessed again this morning.A search and rescue walking party was deployed to the area last night and located the two bushwalkers, who had mild hypothermia. Medical assistance was provided and they are being walked out this morning.

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Call with Indonesian Finance Minister

Source: Australian Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry

Today I had my first call with Indonesia’s new Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, building on the strong and enduring relationship between our two countries.

Australia has a close friendship and strategic partnership with Indonesia and our work together is even more critical at a time of heightened global uncertainty.

We discussed how we can enhance our economic cooperation to make our economies stronger and more resilient in the face of significant global challenges.

We shared perspectives on the global economic outlook, our responses to global uncertainty and our economic priorities, including the best ways to achieve sustainable economic growth and job creation.

We also discussed the success of the Indonesian Government’s recent issuance of an AUD‑denominated Kangaroo Bond.

Indonesia plays a key role in Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy and no country is more important to Australia.

This was a great chance for the two of us to get to know each other and I’m really looking forward to regular engagement with Minister Purbaya as we discuss the economic opportunities our two countries can seize together.

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Your sustainable spring cleaning guide

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

With a range of recycling and reuse options available, think before disposing during your spring clean.

In brief:

  • Sustainable decluttering helps reduce landfill waste and prepares your home for the hotter months ahead.
  • Canberrans have access to free and low-cost services that support recycling, repurposing, and safe disposal of household items.
  • Climate-ready gardens with native plants and efficient water use can cool your home, support biodiversity, and reduce environmental impact.

With warmer and longer days, spring is the perfect time to do household jobs to refresh your space.

There are plenty of ways to get your home and garden summer-ready in an eco-friendly way.

Declutter sustainably

The ACT Government’s A-Z guide to recycling and waste is a great resource for finding safe disposal and recycling options. Here are some other tips:

  • Donate reusable furniture to Goodies Junction or sell it online.
  • Utilise a free bulky waste collection (one per financial year).
  • Drop unwanted mattresses at Soft Landing in Hume, in your bulky waste collection or drop to a resource management centre in Mitchell or Mugga Lane (fees apply).
  • Electronics can be reused or donated, and broken devices can be recycled for free at Mitchell or Mugga Lane Resource Management Centres.

Smart waste disposal

Have you got any hazardous items like old paints, oils, batteries, and cleaning products? These should never go in household bins or drains.

Drop them off for free at Resource Management Centres to avoid environmental and fire risks.

Common recyclables can be dropped off 24/7 at one of five recycling drop-off centres across the ACT.

This includes:

  • paper
  • cardboard
  • glass bottles
  • cans.

Return eligible cans, bottles and cartons through the ACT Container Deposit Scheme to earn some money along the way.

Read more about how to recycle properly.

Create a Climate-Wise Garden

Getting out into the garden?  Choosing certain plants in the garden can help reduce urban heat, meaning your home will stay cooler during hot weather.

Follow these gardening tips:

Choose the best plants for your space with the Canberra Plant Selector.

  • Create shade using plants or structures like pergolas, trellises, or shade sails.
  • Understory plants and pots can improve cooling, especially when planted beneath trees or near hot surfaces.
  • Combine grass with shrubs and trees for better cooling.
  • Even small spaces like balconies can benefit from greenery, shade structures, or trellises.
  • Consider installing a rain tank to help irrigate your garden sustainably.
  • Install smart watering systems to make sure you’re only watering when its needed.

Reduce your garden’s environmental impact

By rethinking how your garden affects the environment, you will help create cleaner waterways and cooler suburbs.

Here’s how to help:

  • Be responsible using fertilisers or chemical additives. These can wash into stormwater drains during rain and contribute to algal blooms in our waterways and lakes.
  • When replacing artificial turf, choose natural options like grass, groundcovers or mulch. Artificial turf can’tt be recycled or put in household bins.

For more information and tips, visit the climate choices website.

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Address to University Colleges Australia National Forum

Source: Murray Darling Basin Authority

I’d like to start by acknowledging the traditional custodians on the land on which this forum takes place and I pay my respects to elders past and present.

I’d also like to thank the President of University Colleges Australia, Lisa Sutherland for inviting me to speak.

I’m sorry I can’t be there in person but I’m grateful for the opportunity today to talk about the work we have to do together to make our universities and our colleges safer places to work, study and live.

Living and studying at a residential college can be a wonderful experience for so many students.

You are stewards of institutions that play a pivotal role in shaping lives.

Places where students learn, grow and make friendships that last a lifetime.

This is a formative stage in their lives, when these students are often away from home for the first time.

Making sure their experience is safe and supportive and everything they hope for and dream about when they first apply, that is a responsibility I know you all treat with the utmost seriousness and care. 

Last month we passed legislation to introduce a mandatory code to prevent and respond to sexual violence at universities.

I was pretty blunt on why we needed this.

For too long, universities had let students down.

The results of the 2021 National Student Safety Survey were pretty bracing.

You’ve heard these statistics before. Statistics that I’ll keep repeating because they’re too serious to be forgotten.

One in 20 university students reported being sexually assaulted on campus.

One in six reported being sexually harassed.

One in two reported that they felt they weren’t being heard when they made a complaint.

A lot of those experiences, a lot of what students reported, happened in residential colleges.

I know how sickening this was for leaders of colleges.

You acknowledged this. You committed to do better. 

Since then you’ve done a lot of work individually and collectively.

I want to acknowledge that.

Many of you have brought in experts to review your cultures and advise on change.

You have implemented new and better reporting practices.

And more support for students who make reports of harassment and assault.

But there is more to do.

Students, like everyone else, have a right to feel safe in their own home.

We need to make sure there is consistency across campuses and that every student – every student – gets the support and protection they need and deserve.

That’s why the proposed Code has specific requirements to help ensure that all student accommodation is safe for students.

That’s Standard 7 of the Code, which will come into effect from January 1st next year,

It will mean colleges need to have a prevention and response plan that is regularly monitored and updated.

A plan that is developed and tailored to each college’s environment.

Colleges will need to provide students and staff with meaningful education on preventing and responding to gender-based violence.

And they will need to make sure every member of the college community has access to the best response and support possible if they do report an incident.

I know many of the measures in the code, you will already have implemented through the work you’ve already done.

And I want to thank you for the contributions you made to the consultation on the Code.

We won’t leave you on your own in this.

To help universities and colleges implement the code, I’ve set up a specialist unit in my department to provide guidance, education and advice.

The Code is the next step we have taken to make campuses safer after setting up the National Student Ombudsman earlier this year.

As you’re aware, this free and independent service is providing an avenue for students to resolve complaints with higher education providers.

All while prioritising students’ safety and confidentiality.

It’s about making sure their voices are heard.

Across this forum you will be discussing the contribution that residential colleges make to student life and success.

And I know a big part of that for you is also making sure your students’ voices are heard.

I thank you for your dedication to this work to stamp out gender-based violence on campuses.

And I wish you all the best for the rest of the Forum.

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Applications open for 2026 Youth Advisory Group program

Source: Murray Darling Basin Authority

Applications are now open for the Government’s 2026 Youth Advisory Groups. 

Youth Advisory Groups bring together young people aged 16 to 24 years who are passionate about making a difference and want a chance to engage with government and work with ministers and agencies on policies and programs that affect them.

From climate action to mental health, these groups give young Australians a seat at the table, and a voice in the matters that affect their generation – and future generations.

In 2026, two existing groups will continue: the Climate Change and Water Youth Advisory Group and the First Nations Youth Advisory Group.

The Office for Youth will also establish three new groups in 2026: a Mental Health Youth Advisory Group, a Countering Foreign Interference Youth Advisory Group, and a Sports Participation Youth Advisory Group.

Young people have a unique opportunity and a real chance to play an active role in influencing government decisions and shaping future policies that matter to them.

The program is open for applications until Sunday 26 October through the Digital Youth Hub, www.youth.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Early Childhood Education and Minister for Youth, Senator Dr Jess Walsh:

“Young people have a huge stake in the future of our country – and that means they need a say in that future.

“The Youth Advisory Groups empower young people to be involved in areas affecting them most and in turn, help shape how our Government responds.

“If you are a passionate young person who wants to have a say in your future, make sure you apply today.

“After meeting the incredible young people from the last Youth Advisory Groups, I am proud and excited to see what another year of this wonderful program brings.”

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Two men charged in relation to burglary at Salvation Army

Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

Two men charged in relation to burglary at Salvation Army

Wednesday, 1 October 2025 – 4:04 pm.

Police have charged two men in relation to a burglary at the Salvation Army Family Store in New Town on 17-18 September where a large quantity of cold weather clothing and swags were stolen. 
Today, detectives from South East CIB arrested and charged two men with burglary and stealing and unlawful possession of property.  
The 24-year-old and 55-year-old men from New Town will appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court on 2 February 2026.  
A large quantity of the stolen property remains outstanding.  
Anyone with information in relation to the location of the stolen property is asked to contact police on 131 444 and quote OR785286.  
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000.

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We’re prepared for bushfire season, are you?

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

Released 01/10/2025

Today, 1 October 2025, marks the beginning of the bushfire season in the ACT.

To keep our community safe and informed the ACT Rural Fire Service (ACTRFS) will implement three things throughout bushfire season. Fire Danger Rating Signs, mandatory fire permits and total fire bans (TOBANS).

  • Fire permits: With the start of bushfire season, all urban and rural ACT residents must obtain a fire permit for any open-air burning. These permits help keep the community safe by ensuring the ACTRFS is aware of planned burns, and we can then inform the public and avoid unnecessary emergency calls.
  • TOBANs: On days of elevated fire danger, increased fire activity, or when weather conditions are likely to increase the spread of fire, the ESA may declare a TOBAN for all, or part of the ACT. It is essential for residents to understand that during a TOBAN, high-risk activities such as operating certain machinery and open fires are prohibited, and all previously issued fire permits are suspended. Compliance with these bans is essential to safeguard lives and property during periods of heightened fire danger.
  • Australian Fire Danger Rating System (AFDRS): The community may also start to see AFDRS signs. These signs are displayed electronically on major arterial roads and give you an indication of the consequences of a fire, if one were to start. The fire danger rating is also updated daily on the ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA) website throughout the season. Residents should use this information to inform their survival plans.

The launch of the bushfire season coincides with the launch of version 5 of the ACT’s Strategic Bushfire Management Plan (SBMP).

The updated SBMP sets the direction for bushfire management across the ACT, with a vision to build a resilient and adaptive ACT community and natural environment through proactive and collaborative bushfire management.

To learn more about bushfire season and the SBMP visit the ACT Emergency Services Agency website.

Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Dr Marisa Paterson, is pleased to launch Version 5 of the Strategic Bushfire Management Plan (SBMP), and is calling on the Canberra community to play an active role in bushfire preparedness.

“The release of Version 5 of the SBMP marks a significant milestone for bushfire resilience in the ACT. Many of the strategies and lessons from previous plans have now become embedded in everyday operations across government and the community. This latest iteration builds on those foundations, strengthening our approach to bushfire protection and ensuring we remain adaptive and forward-thinking.

“Although our crews are prepared if a bushfire were to occur, they cannot do this alone. Every household has a role to play in reducing risk. Simple actions like cleaning gutters, trimming vegetation, and clearing debris from yards can make a real difference. Bushfire preparedness is a shared responsibility. We are better prepared when Canberra prepares together.”

Quotes attributable to ACTRFS Chief Officer, Rohan Scott

“This bushfire season, the ACTRFS is prioritising community education around ember attacks, one of the leading causes of homes being lost during bushfires. Even if a fire isn’t burning directly near you, embers can travel significant distances and pose a serious threat. That’s why it’s critical to take action early and activate your survival plan if embers are present.

“The latest SBMP offers clear guidance on preparing for ember attacks, with a strong emphasis on community safety, ecological sustainability and resilience in the face of a changing climate. It draws on the latest science, policy and operational experience – and sets out how we will work together to reduce bushfire risk and protect what matters most.”

Quotes attributable to ACTP&CS Executive Branch Manager, Michaela Watts

“We love seeing Canberrans out enjoying our parks and reserves and we’re so fortunate we live close to these beautiful nature reserves and waterways. However, it’s important to remember these are natural spaces which can be unpredictable, and warmer weather carries increased risks. If you are visiting our parks and reserves, please plan ahead and stay safe in and around the bush by checking and following advice on the parks.act.gov.au website.

“The SBMP is the ACT wide plan for managing bushfire risk in the ACT, which underpins and is further supported by the Regional Fire Management Plan and the Bushfire Operations Plan developed by Parks and Conservation in the City and Environment Directorate. These plans guide our operations, priorities and set key objectives to balance fuel management to protect life property and the environment with all the other values in the natural estate.”

– Statement ends –

Marisa Paterson, MLA | Media Releases

«ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

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Applications now open for Property Developer Licensing and Regulation Scheme

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services




Applications now open for Property Developer Licensing and Regulation Scheme – Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development Directorate

















As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

Released 01/10/2025

The ACT Government has today opened applications for licences under the Property Developer Licensing and Regulation Scheme to individuals and entities undertaking residential development projects involving three or more dwellings.

The scheme will require property developers to rectify serious defects in their projects and extends the chain of accountability beyond just licensed builders and other licenced occupations.

“With significant reforms underway to increase the supply of homes in the Territory, this comes with an expectation that these homes are well built,” Minister Steel said.

“Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most Canberrans will ever make. Purchasers should feel secure and protected when they buy a new property in the ACT, not faced with the financial consequences of poor quality construction.”

The system will promote public confidence in the standard of residential development in Canberra and ensure that residential development is undertaken by competent developers encouraging quality and the prevention and rectification of defects.

“Competent developers who are committed to quality residential construction and rectify defects on their build should have nothing to fear from licencing,” said Minister Steel

Minister Steel said licensing would be mandatory whenever a property developer sells a unit off-the-plan, lodges a development application or applies for building approvals.

Certain developers, such as registered not-for-profit aged care providers, will be exempt from the scheme when undertaking prescribed residential building activities.

“This will make sure that Canberrans know who is behind a development at the earliest stages of the development process,” Minister Steel said.

“The introduction of this scheme brings developers into the chain of responsibility for building outcomes – alongside builders, certifiers and other licensed professionals. It’s a significant step forward in protecting consumers and improving standards across the industry.”

The opening of licence applications is supported by the commencement of the new Property Developers Regulation 2025 and a Property Developers Code of Practice.

Licensing will become mandatory from 1 October 2026. For more information on the scheme and how to apply, visit the ACT Planning website.

– Statement ends –

Chris Steel, MLA | Media Releases

«ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases