Month: November 2025

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Backing innovation with new venture capital fund

Source: Australian Capital Territory – State Government

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Released 03/11/2025

The ACT Government has today launched the ACTivate Capital Fund, a new venture capital fund.

Announced as part of the Chief Minister’s 2025 State of the Territory Address to the Canberra Business Chamber, the Fund is now live and will start with $23 million in committed capital, with capacity to grow to $50 million.

“ACTivate Capital is the first Early-Stage Venture Capital Limited Partnership (ESVCLP) the ACT has seen and marks a major milestone in the ACT’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship,” the Chief Minister said.

“Investments will focus on Canberra-based companies in early growth stages, aligned with responsible investment principles.

“This is a great opportunity for ACT businesses and start-ups to access funding and the support they need to unlock new opportunities, as well as helping them scale, commercialise research, and bring cutting-edge ideas to market.”

The Fund is backed by a strong coalition of partners, including the ACT Government as cornerstone investor, Epicorp as General Partner, and UNSW Canberra and local family offices as Limited Partners.

Over the next five to seven years, the Fund will actively seek out high-potential ventures, helping to grow emerging sectors and strengthen the ACT’s position as a hub for innovation, talent and investment.

A second round is planned in approximately 18 months, presenting further opportunities for investors who are committed to responsible investment and want to be part of Canberra’s innovation story to come on board.

Start-ups are encouraged to engage with Epicorp about the possibility of investment. An enquiry form is available on https://www.activatecapital.com.au/.

As part of the Address, the Chief Minister also reaffirmed the ACT’s strong economic position and outlined the ACT Government’s key priorities across community infrastructure and housing, economic development, tourism and climate change.

“The ACT economy continues to demonstrate strength and resilience, remaining one of the best performing jurisdictions in the country.

“We’re proud to maintain one of the highest economic growth rates nationally, with strong labour market outcomes and higher wages than any other jurisdiction. The latest ABS data reinforces this positive trajectory, with State Final Demand rising by 0.7 per cent in the June quarter and increasing by 4.2 per cent over the year – leading all states and territories.

“The ACT Government has an ambitious plan for Canberra’s future. A plan that meets the needs of a growing, changing population, and one that reflects our commitment to innovation, sustainability and growth.

“We will continue focussing on delivering infrastructure and supporting the diversification of our economy,” the Chief Minister said.

Quotes attributable to Ken Kroeger, Managing Partner at ACTivate Capital:

“The fund represents a significant step forward in advancing Australia’s innovation economy, reflecting our strong commitment to supporting emerging Territory businesses and connecting them to national and global markets.

“The Territory has already proven its capacity to generate world-class companies such as CEA, Instaclustr, Liquid Instruments, Quantum Brilliance and Seeing Machines and there is an extraordinary depth of emerging talent and technology ready to follow in their footsteps. 

“We have assembled an experienced and talented investment team with strong Governance oversight to work with founders and our Limited Partners.

“The Activate Capital team are looking forward to working with exciting new opportunities that are investment-ready, leading to the next generation of high-growth, founder-led businesses born right here in Canberra.”

Quotes attributable to Petr Adamek, CEO at Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN):

“The Activate Capital Fund is a major step forward for Canberra’s innovation community. It will provide funding to Canberra’s ambitious entrepreneurs to help them turn bold ideas into scalable companies. The fund strengthens the local link between innovation and risk capital helping more world-class ventures grow and create future jobs here in the Territory.”

– Statement ends –

Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases

«ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

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Southside Hydrotherapy Pool now open

Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory

The pool will open to the public from 25 August.

In brief:

  • Construction on the Southside Hydrotherapy Pool is complete.
  • The pool opened on 25 August 2025.
  • This will provide a valuable healthcare service for the southside.

Construction on the Southside Hydrotherapy Pool opened to the public on 25 August 2025.

The new pool is located next to the Lakeside Leisure Centre in Tuggeranong. It will be an important health and wellbeing service for the community.

It complements the hydrotherapy pool at the University of Canberra Hospital in Bruce.

The southside location allows more Canberrans to access hydrotherapy services close to home.

An important healthcare service for the southside

Hydrotherapy is a powerful tool for recovery, rehabilitation and pain management.

The new pool will support Canberrans:

  • living with chronic conditions, such as arthritis, cancer and migraines
  • recovering from injury or surgery.

An inclusive, accessible and welcoming space

The pool has been designed in line with the Australasian Health Facilities Guidelines.

This ensures accessibility, safety and comfort for all users.

Key features include:

  • extra accessible and standard parking spaces
  • ramps to access the centre and the pool
  • accessible bathroom and changeroom
  • underfloor heating and water temperature at 33–34 degrees. This is about the same as skin temperature. It means the body does not go into any shock when entering the water. It also relaxes muscles and the nervous system.
  • safety and accessibility support features like handrails, a bariatric-rated hydraulic hoist to access the pool and slip-resistant flooring
  • storage for mobility aids like wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

A Changing Places facility

The pool also includes a Changing Places facility. This is a specialised accessible public toilet for people with disability who have high physical support needs.

It was included in the pool’s design following community feedback in 2022, during the development of the ACT Disability Strategy.

The Changing Places facility ensures pool users can access therapeutic aquatic services with dignity, safety and comfort.

Bookings and more

Belgravia will manage the pool as part of the Lakeside Leisure Centre.

Bookings will open in the coming weeks through Lakeside Leisure Centre, with convenient options available both online and in person.

Visit the Built for CBR website for more details.

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Arrest – Unlawful damage – Darwin

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The NT Police Force has arrested a 28-year-old man in relation to an incident that occurred in Darwin City early this morning.

Around 12:55am, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports that a man had allegedly unlawfully entered an apartment on Smith Street, damaging the front door to gain access.

It is alleged the offender, who also resides in the unit complex, smashed through the door of a neighbouring apartment and, once inside, flooded the residence with a hose before leaving. The elderly occupant was able to secure herself safely and contact police.

Upon police arrival, the alleged offender became aggressive toward officers before retreating into his own apartment. He then allegedly made threats of violence toward police and stated he had a firearm inside the premises.

Additional resources were deployed, and police negotiators attended to liaise with the offender.

Around 8:30am, the 28-year-old man surrendered to police and was taken into custody without further incident.

Investigations are ongoing.

Police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444 quoting reference number P25295566. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

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Update – Fatal crash at Pinkerton Plains

Source: South Australia Police

Police and emergency services have responded to a single motorcycle crash at Pinkerton Plains, northwest of Gawler.

A motorcyclist has died following a crash at Pinkerton Plains, northwest of Gawler this morning.

About 6am on Monday 3 November, police were called to Currie and Oliver Roads at Pinkerton Plains after reports a motorcyclist crashed through a fence and into a paddock.

The rider, a 53-year-old man from Port Adelaide, sadly died at the scene.

Major Crash Investigators attended to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Currie Road was closed between Coleman Road and Mudla Wirra Road along with intersecting side roads but has now been reopened.

The man’s death is the 75th life lost on SA roads this year.

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Call for information – Property and rock throwing offences – Galiwinku

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Police are calling for information following multiple property crime incidents in Galiwinku overnight.

From around 9:20pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received multiple reports of attempted unlawful entries throughout the community.

It is alleged a group of unknown youths attempted to gain entry to four residences between 9:30pm and midnight and also gained entry to a store on Nalkanna Street.

Police located the group of alleged offenders and, during attempts to apprehend them, rocks were thrown at the police vehicle before the youths fled the scene.

Investigations are ongoing.

Police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444 quoting reference number P25295476. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

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Outstanding Canberrans join ACT Honour Walk

Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory

L-R: Lynne Stevenson (granddaughter of Mary Stevenson MBE), Vicki Mico (wife of Dominic Mico OAM), Maureen Tindale, Richard Tindale

In brief:

  • Five Canberrans have been inducted to the ACT Honour Walk.
  • The Honour Walk celebrates individuals and groups that have helped shape Canberra.
  • This story includes information on the recipients and their contributions.

The ACT Honour Walk in Ainslie Place has grown, with five new Canberrans inducted.

These five individuals have helped shape Canberra, and their contributions will be acknowledged with a plaque on the Honour Walk.

John Hindmarsh AM

Mr Hindmarsh was a visionary business leader, philanthropist and patron of the arts.

His legacy helped shape Canberra’s skyline and cultural identity.

As founder of Hindmarsh, he oversaw landmark developments. These include:

  • Questacon
  • John Curtin School of Medical Research (ANU)
  • Canberra Theatre Playhouse.

His dedication to the arts saw him chair the Cultural Facilities Corporation and the National Gallery of Australia Foundation.

Mr Hindmarsh was a co-founder of Hands Across Canberra, and championed community, creativity and excellence.

Domenic Mico OAM

Mr Mico was a pioneering force in Canberra’s multicultural community for over 50 years.

He was a playwright, director, arts advocate and community leader.

He was instrumental in the founding of key institutions. These include:

  • the National Multicultural Festival
  • Tuggeranong Arts Centre
  • the Canberra Day celebrations.

Through theatre, festivals and public art, he championed diversity, nurtured emerging talent and gave voice to migrant experiences.

Mr Mico’s contributions helped shape Canberra’s identity as a vibrant, inclusive city.

Mary Stevenson MBE

Mrs Stevenson made outstanding contributions to Canberra’s political, civic and community life.

Her work helped shape the city’s early development.

Mrs Stevenson:

  • was the first woman elected to both the Canberra Community Hospital Board and the ACT Advisory Council.
  • led wartime aid efforts
  • championed women’s involvement in public life
  • held leadership roles in the Liberal Party, Girl Guides and YWCA.

Richard and Maureen Tindale

Mr and Mrs Tindale bought the struggling National Aquarium in 1998. They were driven by a deep love of animals and a desire to protect endangered species.

Under their leadership it was transformed into the National Zoo and Aquarium.

This later expanded to include Jamala Wildlife Lodge.

The Tindales have made an outstanding contribution to Canberra’s tourism industry.

They have also contributed to wildlife conservation via the National Zoo and Aquarium’s:

  • breeding programs
  • habitat restoration efforts
  • global conservation partnership.

About the ACT Honour Walk

The ACT Honour Walk recognises those who have helped shape Canberra as we know it today.

You can find the Honour Walk on Ainslie Place in the city, between London Circuit and the Canberra Times Fountain.

Past recipients

This year’s inductees join over 80 recipients on the Honour Walk.

These include:

  • Walter Burley Griffin
  • Marian Mahoney Griffin
  • the Canberra Philharmonic Society
  • the Canberra Raiders
  • the Brumbies
  • Terry Snow AM.

Previous recipients have been recognised for their contributions to:

  • community service, sport, culture or the arts
  • justice, research or education
  • military
  • business.

Eligibility for recognition

Do you know someone who deserves recognition?

You can nominate any group or person who has:

  • helped shape the city of Canberra
  • made a lasting contribution to the community.

Nominees do not have to live in the ACT. The honour may be awarded posthumously.

Honour Walk nominations are open all year round on the ACT Government website.

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Have your say and help us shape the future of transport for powerhouse region

Source: Mental Health Australia

Central West and Orana communities have been invited to have their say on a new draft plan focused on the region’s transport needs now and into the future. 

The Government has today released the draft Central West and Orana Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan (SRITP) for public consultation. The Central West and Orana is a growth powerhouse for regional NSW, supporting jobs, industry and innovation across the state. The draft plan outlines a long-term vision for safer, more reliable and better-connected transport to support that growth.

Together with community insights via an online mapping tool, the consultation period identified more than 60 initiatives including improved public transport services for smaller communities and ageing populations, more services to more places across the day and week, better utilisation of existing infrastructure and targeted upgrades to improve connections between homes and jobs, education, healthcare services and entertainment precincts. 

The plan also recognises the region’s shifting demographics. By 2041 the population is expected to grow by more than 11 per cent to 323,000, and the number of residents aged over 65 is projected to grow as well. 

Submissions close midnight on Sunday 14 December.

Further information is available here.  (PDF, 141.13 KB)

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Keeping Coffs industry on the road

Source: Mental Health Australia

The City of Coffs Harbour, together with the Australian and NSW governments, have combined their efforts and funding resources to improve the resilience of O’Keefe Drive, an important road in the south Coffs Harbour industrial area.

A Transport for NSW spokesperson said through combined disaster recovery funding from the Australian and NSW Governments, O’Keefe Drive is now much better able to withstand the impacts of flooding.

“The work, carried out by City of Coffs Harbour, involved replacing 650 metres of the existing road pavement with stronger and more durable pavement and road surface,” the spokesperson said. 

Road drainage improvements, which help reduce water build up, were also installed to improve accessibility during high rainfall events. 

Despite being initially approved for $2.2 million for the project, the City of Coffs Harbour managed to utilise an alternate method of improvement works – from rigid concrete pavement to deep lift asphalt – and delivered the work for just over $710,000.  

“Keeping the community connected during a natural disaster and getting things moving again as quickly as possible after danger has passed is critical to minimising the effects of disasters,” the Transport spokesperson said.

“This work will help retain access for the businesses in the area around O’Keefe Drive during periods of severe weather, meaning the services – including the local Busways bus terminal – and the economic benefits they provide to the local economy won’t be lost.

“We commend Coffs Harbour City Council for putting this proposal forward, and for saving taxpayer funds through its delivery using a less-expensive method than initially proposed.”

Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams said this project improves the resilience of a key road in the South Coffs industrial estate. 

“O’Keefe Drive runs adjacent to Newports Creek and is prone to localised flooding in significant weather events like the one we had in 2022,” Ms Williams said. 

“As an important road for many heavy vehicle movements, this project should result in a good surface for at least 20 years. I commend the commitment of the NSW and Australian Governments to building back better.”

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Call for information – Aggravated burglary – Fannie Bay

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Police are calling for information in relation to an aggravated robbery that occurred in Fannie Bay on Saturday morning.

Around 5:25am, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports that a vehicle had been stolen from an address on McCartney Street.

It is alleged that an unknown offender entered the residence and rummaged through cupboards, before locating a pair of keys and stealing a Mazda CX5 that was parked in the driveway. The offender then fled the scene.

Strike Force Trident attended and have carriage of the incident. Investigations are ongoing.

Police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444 quoting reference number P25293861. Anonymous reports can be mad through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

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Man charged with several offences following targeted operation in Launceston on Friday

Source: Tasmania Police

Man charged with several offences following targeted operation in Launceston on Friday

Monday, 3 November 2025 – 11:20 am.

A 37-year-old man from Claremont appeared in the Launceston Magistrates Court on Saturday charged with several offences after he was taken into custody on Friday in a targeted operation in Launceston.
He was charged with assault, evade police (aggravated circumstances), 2x drive while suspended, dishonestly alter or display a plate in a way calculated to deceive, 5x breach of bail, and breach of Police Family Violence Order.
He was detained to next appear before the Launceston Magistrates Court on 4 November 2025.