Designs released for Tasman Bridge pathway upgrades

Source: Minister of Infrastructure

New designs have been released for upgrades to the Tasman Bridge’s pathways.

The upgrades are part of the Australian and Tasmanian governments’ $130 million shared commitment to the Tasman Bridge Upgrade project.

These upgrades will make journeys safer for people who walk and ride across the bridge.

The upgrades will include higher barriers on both pathways, added width at handlebar and waist height, addition of safety handrails, improved sight lines, three new passing bays for safer overtaking on each pathway, and improved pathway connections.

The designs were developed following consultation with key stakeholders and based on extensive technical assessments.

The designs are available to view at the Hobart City Council (16 Elizabeth Street, Hobart) and Clarence City Council (38 Bligh Street, Rosny) offices, or online via the Transport website from Tuesday 28 October 2025 until Monday 17 November 2025.

Information sessions will be held to allow community members to view the designs and ask questions in person. Sessions will be held on:

  • Wednesday 5 November 2025, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, at Mathers House, 108-110 Bathurst Street, Hobart
  • Saturday, 8 November 2025, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, at the Cambridge Hall, 989 Cambridge Road, Cambridge.

Members of the public can also ask questions or request copies of the design by emailing tasmanbridgepathways@stategrowth.tas.gov.au

Media should be mindful of the Mindframe Guidelines when reporting on this matter or when moderating related online commenting.

Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“These new designs show the future of the Tasman Bridge – one that better supports walking, cycling and safer travel for everyone.

“I’m pleased to see progress on this important project and look forward to seeing it deliver improved safety outcomes for the people of Hobart.

“The Australian Government, in partnership with the Tasmanian Government, is proud to be investing in upgrades that make a real difference for local communities.”

Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Infrastructure Minister Kerry Vincent:

“We are moving ahead with improvements to the Tasman Bridge’s pathways.

“To develop the designs, we balanced extensive technical assessments with input from key stakeholders to deliver the safest and most practical solution within the unique limitations of the bridge.

“The pathway upgrades will deliver several improvements to make the bridge safer for people using active transport, while also complementing the other stages of the Tasman Bridge Pathways Upgrade project.

“Construction on the first stage of the project will start in the coming weeks to build a shared path underneath the Tasman Bridge on Hobart’s eastern shore, delivering improved connections to the bridge for active transport users.

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Franklin Julie Collins:

“Upgrading the Tasman Bridge pathways is an important step in improving safety and accessibility for everyone who uses this vital link.

“Community input is key to getting this project right. I encourage the community to take the time to view the designs and share their feedback.

“This upgrade is another example of how the Albanese Labor Government is investing in infrastructure that supports safer, more connected communities.”

Charges – Domestic violence – Yarrawonga

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 38-year-old man in relation to a domestic violence incident that occurred in Yarrawonga yesterday afternoon.

Around 3:10pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports that a woman had allegedly been assaulted with an edged weapon by a man believed to be her partner while travelling on a public bus.

It is alleged that when the victim boarded the bus, her partner followed her and assaulted her multiple times to the face before producing an edged weapon and striking her with it.

Transit Security Officers attended and apprehended the man.

Police and St John Ambulance arrived at the scene, and the victim was conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Police arrested the 38-year-old alleged offender, who has since been charged with aggravated assault, engaging in conduct that contravenes a DVO, and being armed with an offensive weapon.

He has been remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court today.

Anyone with information about the incident are urged to contact police on 131 444. Please quote reference number NTP25001078427. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114.

Arrests – Stolen motor vehicle and aggravated burglary – Pinelands

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Police have arrested four youths in relation to an aggravated burglary that occurred in Pinelands early this morning.

Around 12:30am, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports of a vehicle driving dangerously through Bagot Community. The vehicle was later identified as having been stolen from Wagaman the previous day.

A short time later, the same vehicle allegedly attended a service station along the Stuart Highway in Pinelands, where three occupants exited and smashed the glass doors with a blunt weapon. Once inside the premises, they allegedly stole a quantity of cigarettes and tobacco before fleeing the scene.

The service station was closed at the time of the incident, and no staff were present or injured.

General duties, Strike Force Trident and Dog Operations Unit deployed and located the stolen vehicle abandoned on Margaritis Street, Wanguri.

Three male youths aged 10, 12 and 13, and one female youth aged 15 were arrested nearby in possession of multiple stolen items.

The youths remain in custody and investigations are ongoing.

Police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444 quoting reference number P25290296. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

Share your feedback on Thornton Road Bridge

Source: Mental Health Australia

Community members in Thornton and surrounds are being invited to share their feedback on the preferred design for the proposed duplication of Thornton Road Bridge over Main North railway.

The NSW Government is investing $50 million for the upgrade which will improve traffic flow, travel times and contribute to the wider network improvements being planned and delivered by Maitland City Council.

A Transport for NSW spokesperson said a preferred design has been developed for the proposed upgrade, which includes providing four lanes across the Main North railway to increase the reliability and capacity of Thornton Road. 

“This is an exciting step forward for the project and will help ease congestion along Thornton Road at the traffic lights on Glenroy Street, especially during peak periods,” the spokesperson said.

“Transport has investigated upgrade options along this section to improve traffic flow and safety for all users, while helping meet the future needs of an increased population and employment in the area.

“We know this bridge is a well-known headache for local commuters, so we encourage all road users to provide feedback on the preferred option as it will help us understand what is important to you, and also help further refine the concept design.”

Submissions will be open from Wednesday 29 October to Sunday 30 November. Community members can provide feedback by visiting www.transport.nsw.gov.au/trbd 

Transport for NSW will continue to consult with the community and stakeholders as the project progresses. 

Major work will start once planning is completed.

Police renew call for public information in relation to firearm incident at Rose Bay on 24 October

Source: Tasmania Police

Police renew call for public information in relation to firearm incident at Rose Bay on 24 October

Wednesday, 29 October 2025 – 11:05 am.

As part of the ongoing police investigation into an alleged firearm incident at Rose Bay last week, police have recovered the vehicle that was reportedly stolen in the incident, and are renewing the call for public information. 
In what police believe was a targeted incident on 24 October, a man reportedly sustained a gunshot wound to the hand in the Ronnie Street area at Rose Bay. 
During the incident, the man’s vehicle – a white Volkswagen Golf with registration L59PA – was allegedly stolen by the offenders who were wearing balaclavas. 
On Sunday (26 October), police located the stolen vehicle unattended at Cadbury Road, Claremont. 
Police investigations are ongoing and detectives urge anyone with information in relation to the incident, or the alleged offenders, to come forward. 
Information can be provided direct to investigators at South East CIB on 131 444 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000 – quoting reference OR788322.

Police renew call for public information in relation to alleged murder and wounding in Salamanca area

Source: Tasmania Police

Police renew call for public information in relation to alleged murder and wounding in Salamanca area

Wednesday, 29 October 2025 – 11:04 am.

As part of the ongoing investigation into an alleged murder and wounding incident in the Morrison Street car park at Salamanca about 11.45pm on Saturday night, police are renewing their call for public information. 
Detectives urge anyone who has footage – including phone videos, cctv, and dash cam vision – of the incident or the surrounding area around the time to come forward. 
Tragically a 20-year-old man died as a result of injuries sustained in the incident, and a 23-year-old man remains in the Royal Hobart Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. 
A 17-year-old male appeared in Court yesterday charged with murder, wounding and assault in relation to the incident; and a 20-year-old man will appear before the court at a later date charged with assault. 
Anyone with information or vision is asked to contact South East CIB on 131 444 – quoting OR788452. 
Information and vision can be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000. 

Expressions of interest sought from community for committee to advise on new board of inquiry

Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory




Expressions of interest sought from community for committee to advise on new board of inquiry – 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 29/10/2025

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with a connection to the Canberra region can now submit an expression of interest to be part of a community advisory committee to inform government on the establishment of a Board of Inquiry into Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander deaths in custody in the Alexander Maconochie Centre.

The new committee will advise government on the terms of reference for, and membership of, the board.

The government is looking for 6 to 8 members of the Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander community who:

  • Have experience of, or an interest in, the justice system and how it impacts on members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, particularly those in custody.
  • Want to help shape the Board of Inquiry to achieve the best outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander detainees.
  • Are not professionally involved in ACT Corrective Services or in delivering services to detainees at the Alexander Maconochie Centre.

Minister for Corrections Dr Marisa Paterson encouraged interested parties to submit an expression of interest.

“Firstly, I want to acknowledge the ongoing grief of the families of those who have died in the Alexander Maconochie Centre,” Minister Paterson said.

“It is critical that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices are centred as we establish key aspects of the inquiry, including the scope of the terms of reference and the appointment of members of the board.

“We want this advisory committee to represent the local community and bring a range of perspectives and experiences into how we shape this board of inquiry.”

The request for expressions of interest is available on the ACT Government website and has been sent to a number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations in the ACT.

– Statement ends –

Marisa Paterson, MLA | Media Releases

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Upgrades complete at Lesley’s Place

Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory




Upgrades complete at Lesley’s Place – 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 29/10/2025 – Joint media release

The ACT Government has completed a major refurbishment of Toora Women’s Lesley’s Place, delivering a comfortable and modern residential facility for women undertaking alcohol and other drug (AOD) rehabilitation.

The $800,000 upgrade has transformed the property with functional and quality-of-life improvements to better support women on their recovery journey. 

Key improvements include:

  • A refreshed internal layout to improve practicality for shared living
  • Full repainting inside and out
  • New flooring throughout
  • Zoned reverse-cycle heating and cooling in each of the 10 bedrooms
  • A redesigned kitchen, laundry, and bathrooms, including a new accessible bathroom
  • Enhanced outdoor areas with landscaping and relocated clotheslines for easier access.

Toora Women provides specialist AOD services for vulnerable women in the ACT, including those with children. It provides services including residential rehabilitation, day programs, counselling, and transitional support, and helps women achieve long-term recovery and independence.

The refurbishment was led by the ACT Government and funded through the Commonwealth Government’s Community Health and Hospitals Program, which committed $4.3 million for the expansion and modernisation of local alcohol and other drug residential rehabilitation services across the ACT.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Women and ACT Senator Katy Gallagher:

“This upgrade is about giving women in our community the support and dignity they deserve as they take steps toward healing and recovery.”

“Lesley’s Place has been a safe and trusted space for Canberra women for many years, and these improvements will make a real difference for those rebuilding their lives.”

“The Albanese Government is proud to partner with the ACT Government and fund the refurbishment, as it strengthens services that help women achieve stability, independence, and long-term wellbeing.”

Quotes attributable to ACT Minister for Health, Rachel Stephen-Smith:

“We know that recovery from alcohol and other drug dependence is a deeply personal and often challenging journey. That’s why it’s so important that the spaces where people heal are safe, comfortable, and designed to support their wellbeing.

“The ACT Government is proud to invest in services that make a real difference in people’s lives. Toora’s trauma-informed, gender-specific approach is vital for women facing complex challenges, and these improvements will help ensure they have the best possible chance at long-term recovery.

“We’re committed to providing all Canberrans with access to high-quality care in facilities that reflect the value we place on their health and wellbeing.”

Quotes attributable to Toora Women CEO, Kellie Friend:

“Toora is deeply appreciative of the Commonwealth and ACT Government’s investment in refurbishing Lesley’s Place. We know that the physical space plays a vital role in a woman’s recovery and healing journey. This refurbishment is more than just bricks and mortar, it’s a powerful statement that the women who come to Toora are valued. It’s an investment in them, so they can invest in themselves. Creating a space where women can be with their young children not only strengthens the parent-child bond, but also supports the child’s wellbeing through connection and continuity.”

– Statement ends –

Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases

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Mount Stromlo High School powers up with new battery installation

Source: Australian Capital Territory – State Government

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 29/10/2025 – Joint media release

As part of the Big Canberra Battery project, the ACT Government is delivering battery storage systems including a 100 kW behind-the-meter battery at Mount Stromlo High School.

Supporting the Territory’s transition to a net zero emissions and an electrified city, the battery will store excess solar energy generated onsite to help power the school in the evenings and overnight.  This will positively impact the school’s electricity bills and ease pressure on the electricity grid.

The ACT Government has already delivered nine behind-the-meter batteries at government sites across Canberra, including this one at Mount Stromlo High School, and a 75 kW behind-the-meter battery at the ACT Government campus on Canberra Avenue. AGL Energy Solutions was contracted to deliver both batteries.

Learn more about how we’re building a smarter energy system: www.climatechoices.act.gov.au/policy-programs/big-canberra-battery.

Quotes attributable to ACT Chief Minister, Andrew Barr

“Battery storage is a key part of our energy transition. As we electrify our city, we need smart, reliable infrastructure to support growing demand from increased rooftop solar, electric vehicles, all-electric homes, and emerging technologies like vehicle-to-grid energy sharing.

“As a key part of the ACT’s energy transition, the Big Canberra Battery project is also creating local jobs in the growing renewable energy sector and generating revenue for the Territory.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Climate Change, Environment, Energy and Water, Suzanne Orr

“This new battery is part of a growing network of energy storage being delivered across the ACT to help stabilise the grid, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and ensure Canberrans continue to enjoy a secure, reliable and affordable 100% renewable electricity supply.

“Behind-the-meter batteries are energy storage systems installed on the customer’s side of the electricity meter. The batteries installed as part of the Big Canberra Battery project are similar to what Canberrans may have already installed at home, but on a much larger scale. The Mt Stromlo High School battery, at 100 kW, is the size of a shipping container.

“This is about future-proofing our electricity system while delivering real benefits to the community. Through this network of batteries we’re lowering energy costs, cutting emissions, and helping to build a more sustainable and resilient city.

Quote attributed to Minister for Education and Early Childhood, Yvette Berry

“Students across Canberra understand the importance of taking action on climate change, and I know from speaking to students and staff here at Mount Stromlo that they are pleased to be a part of the Big Canberra Battery project.

“Money saved on power bills by the installation of these batteries will also be able to be reinvested back into teaching and learning here at the school.”

Quote attributed to AGL Energy Solutions

“AGL is proud to support the ACT Government in its decarbonisation efforts, through the installation of a battery at Mount Stromlo High School. This forms part of our partnership with the ACT government on the Big Canberra Battery initiative, where we are installing three battery sites in Canberra, with this Mt Stromlo High School site featuring a 280kWh, 100kW battery integrated with solar energy solutions.

Partnerships like this demonstrate how AGL can work with government and industry to deliver practical outcomes that advance the energy transition and create sustainable and effective outcomes for customers.’’

– Statement ends –

Andrew Barr, MLA | Yvette Berry, MLA | Suzanne Orr, MLA | Media Releases

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Address to the Australia China Business Council networking day executive dinner

Source: Australia Government Statements 2

I acknowledge the Ngunnawal and Ngambri people as traditional custodians of the lands of the ACT and region.

China is important to Australia – almost 600,000 jobs in Australia are supported by Australia’s economic relationship with China.

Australia is important to China – in 2024, Australia exported to China almost $105 billion worth of iron ore and concentrates, almost $21 billion worth of natural gas, almost $13 billion worth of education-related travel and over $17 billion worth of agricultural exports with China remaining Australia’s largest market.

It’s a fact the Albanese Government and Labor have understood since Whitlam.

It’s also why we worked so hard to stabilise our trade relationship with China post the election in 2022.

It’s a fact that is understood and represented by the work of the Australia China Business Council (ACBC).

And it’s why we are continuing to grow the economic relationship through the establishment of the Policy Dialogue on Steel Decarbonisation and resumption of the Australia-China Senior Officials Tourism Dialogue.

You will be hearing a lot about what we are doing to continue to grow our future economic ties including in technology, and innovation.

But before we look to the future, I’d like to highlight some previous and current initiatives, a number of which are supported by the National Foundation for Australia-China Relations.

For example, the ACBC China literacy and capability program – helping Australian industry and businesses to navigate China’s evolving opportunities.

I studied Chinese at university and I understand how important language and culture is to doing business in China.

Dairy Australia’s initiative is helping to strategically position Australia’s dairy, horticulture, meat and livestock, wine and seafood industries nationwide, strengthening their sustainable export credentials with China.

The Future Wool Industry Growers delegation visit to China is helping form new relationships with Chinese traders and manufacturers, and advancing Australian wool innovation.

These, and many other stories, showcase the true potential of informed engagement with China in strengthening economic ties and advancing our mutual interests.

As we continue to build upon our economic ties, it’s good to remember that behind our relationship with China, are people, and stories.

One of these is Jill Tang, co-founder of Ladies Who Tech, who travelled to study in Australia from the bustling city of Shanghai, and experienced first-hand the varying approaches to business in Australia and China.

Jill’s ability to look at innovation and entrepreneurship through a multicultural and global view through exposure to Australia and China’s differing approaches to doing business gave her an opportunity to establish, in 2017, a forum championing women’s participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics fields and working with companies across the globe.

China is Australia’s largest trading partner and will remain so for the foreseeable future, a testament to the strong people-to-people links and economic ties that are central to our relationship.

During his recent visit to China, Prime Minister Albanese agreed to continue or expand engagement in trade, tourism, and climate change, including through a general review of the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (or ChAFTA) as it approaches its tenth anniversary.

And so, we are looking for ways to pursue engagement, across a range of sectors, including energy, resources and agriculture, and in healthcare, and education while working together to create innovations that meet the challenges of our time.

I commend the Australia-China Business Council on its work and for the Networking Day we have ahead of us.

Thank you.