Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Search continues for missing light plane (pics and video)
Tuesday, 5 August 2025 – 3:09 pm.
The search for a light plane, missing since Saturday afternoon, is continuing along the coastline of northern Tasmania.
A Tasmania Police helicopter crew has been conducting aerial searches today in the area from George Town to Turner’s Beach.
Pictures and video available here.
Please credit Tasmania Police.
Source: Australian National Party
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 05/08/2025
The ACT Government has announced the launch of a new peer support initiative to improve the wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ people with disability, backed by a $451,000 investment over three years.
Minister for Disability, Carers and Community Services Suzanne Orr said the program is being delivered through a partnership between the Office for Disability and the Office of LGBTIQA+ Affairs and reflects the ACT Government’s commitment to inclusion, equity and community-led solutions.
“We know that LGBTIQA+ people with disability often face intersecting forms of discrimination and exclusion,” Minister Orr said. “This program is about supporting spaces where people can connect, organise, and lead change on their own terms.”
The initiative will be delivered by a partnership between two Disabled People’s Organisations (DPOs) – Women with Disabilities ACT (WWDACT) and Inclusive Rainbow Voices. Inclusive Rainbow Voices is Australia’s only LGBTIQA+ DPO.
The successful project, titled ‘Our Voices, Our Spaces: Co-Creating Community with LGBTIQA+ People with Disabilities’, will provide a safe and empowering environment for people to build community, advocate for their rights and determine their own priorities for connection and support.
“This initiative reflects the ACT Government’s values of self-determination and co-design. That’s why the program guidelines don’t prescribe specific activities – instead, they empower participants to shape the scope of the program to best meet their own needs,” Minister Orr said.
“This is a proud step forward in our work to ensure everyone in the ACT feels seen, supported and valued.”
The project will also include the appointment of a part-time project coordinator to support participants and help strengthen long-term community capacity.
The ACT Government thanks WWDACT and Inclusive Rainbow Voices for their leadership and looks forward to seeing the positive impact of the project on the lives of LGBTIQA+ people with disability in the ACT.
Quotes attributable to Katherine Marshall (they/she), Chief Executive Officer at Inclusive Rainbow Voices:
“The IRV team is very excited to embark on this important project in partnership with WWDACT, working to create peer support and self advocacy opportunities for LGBTIQA+ people with disability living in ACT. As Australia’s only LGBTIQA+ Disability advocacy organisation, this project will also play a significant role in representing the needs and priorities of our ACT communities in our broader advocacy and policy work.”
Quotes attributable to Kat Reed (they/them), Chief Executive Officer at Women With Disabilities ACT:
“This is a massive win for our Canberran LGBTIQA+ people with disability – and during Disability Pride month no less! We thank the ACT Government for supporting such a vital intersection and for their commitment to genuine co-design for our community. The program will be open to all Canberrans and region who identify as LGBTIQA+ and as having a disability(ies). Women with Disabilities ACT looks forward to platforming local LGBTIQA+ people with disabilities over the next 3 years as part of the program.”
– Statement ends –
Suzanne Orr, MLA | Media Releases
Source: Australian National Party
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 04/08/2025 – Joint media release
The ACT Government is proud to celebrate National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day and this year’s theme, ‘Little Footsteps, Big Future’, a reminder of the importance of community, culture and connection to Country in helping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children grow strong in identity and thrive throughout their lives.
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Suzanne Orr said the ACT Government remains committed to working in genuine partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to improve outcomes for children and young people.
“This is a day to reflect on the vital role of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, communities and organisations in supporting children to grow up strong in culture,” Minister Orr said.
“While there is more work to do, we are progressing reforms and delivering programs that prioritise culturally safe, community-led approaches across health, education, child protection and youth justice.”
“I acknowledge and thank our partners in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community for their vital advocacy and contributions to shaping reform. Their leadership is resulting in better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people in the ACT.”
Some of the key initiatives underway include:
These actions reflect the ACT Government’s commitment to listening to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices and acting on community-led priorities to support children and families. These approaches are also complemented by the introduction of new therapeutic supports system in line with raising the minimum age of criminal responsibility to 14 and addressing overrepresentation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people in the justice system.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education and Early Childhood, Yvette Berry MLA:
“From early childhood to high school, we are investing in programs that celebrate culture, promote aspiration and support learning.
“Whether it’s Koori Preschools, Connection to Country excursions or Mura Awards, we want every Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student to feel seen, supported and proud of their identity.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health, Rachel Stephen-Smith MLA:
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day is a time to celebrate the strength, culture and future of First Nations children and their families.
“Keeping parents safe, healthy and confident throughout pregnancy, birth and the early weeks and months of a child’s life lays the foundation for their wellbeing. That’s why we’re working with community to co-design a Birthing on Country model of care. This is a powerful step in Closing the Gap and ensuring every baby born on Ngunnawal Country has the best start in life.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Children, Youth and Families, Michael Pettersson MLA:
“The ACT Government recognises the critical importance for getting it right for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and we are committed to doing everything we can so they can thrive and grow strong connected to culture. We are delivering systemic reform, innovative programs, and initiatives that strengthen the Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO) sector.”
“We recognise the strength in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, and it is incumbent on us to make sure they have access to early, trauma-informed and culturally appropriate support if they need it.”
“The recent decline in the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in out-of-home care in the ACT is a result of improvements in family preservation and support systems.”
Quotes attributable to Natalie Brown, Chair of the Our Booris, Our Way Implementation Oversight Committee:
“The Our Booris Our Way Implementation Oversight Committee remains committed to doing everything we can for the little footsteps and the big futures of our children and young people. The theme highlights the importance of nurturing children’s voices, and hopes for the future, and we started our review hearing the voices of our children and families and their experiences of the Out of Home Care system. This year’s theme reflects the hope we hold for our children to grow up strong in family, culture and identity in order to experience futures of their own design and desires. While Children’s Day is a powerful moment for celebration, its message is one that carries through the entire year. We see the next generations glowing with pride as they practice their inherent rights as sovereign peoples and we also glow with pride for them. Our committee members have raised our children here and we have lived-living experience and expertise of the ACT Out of Home Care system. The experiences of the children are held strongly in our hearts and whilst we always feel like change is too slow and we can never do enough, our message is that your experiences drive our determination to make change, so your footsteps walk you towards a big future that keeps you and your families strong in culture.”
– Statement ends –
Suzanne Orr, MLA | Yvette Berry, MLA Deputy Chief Minister | Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Michael Pettersson, MLA | Media Releases
Source: New places to play in Gungahlin
Community sheds must be run in a specific way to be eligible for deductible gift recipient (DGR) endorsement under the community shed category.
We’re seeing some organisations apply for DGR endorsement as a community shed when they are not eligible. By checking a few details before you begin to apply, you can avoid wasted time and frustration.
Here’s what you need to know.
Community sheds (such as men’s sheds and women’s sheds) provide a range of activities for their members with the purpose of advancing mental health and preventing or relieving social isolation.
To be eligible for DGR endorsement, a community shed must meet all the following criteria:
Before you apply for DGR as a community shed, check that your community shed meets all the below characteristics:
Sunrise Men’s Shed is a registered charity with the ACNC. Its constitution states that its dominant purpose is to advance mental health and relieve social isolation. It operates a physical shed where members work on woodworking and gardening projects together. It works to achieve its dominant purpose by inviting guest speakers to talk about mental health, providing information and mental health first aid training, and linking members with professional mental health services. Membership is open to all men, regardless of age, background, or ethnicity.
Before Sunrise Men’s Shed applied for DGR endorsement, they checked to make sure they met the criteria to be eligible. They confirmed that in their purpose and activities were eligible; their constitution they had a DGR winding up and revocation clause; that they were registered as a charity with the ACNC; and their membership was open (restricted only by gender, which is allowed).
Because they met all the DGR criteria they could move on to the next step of applying for DGR endorsement.
End of example
Craft & Connect Shed Inc. is a not-for-profit that runs hobby classes. Its constitution focuses on skill-building and creative expression to support member’s mental health and forge social connections. Membership is limited to people over 60 and the committee can refuse membership for new members without needing to provide a reason.
The shed’s leadership team wanted to apply for DGR endorsement as a community shed. Before they applied, they checked their characteristics to see if they were eligible.
They realised that they would need to update their membership policy to allow people of any age to join, and not have a committee approval process where some applicants could be denied approval.
After serious discussion, Craft & Connect Shed decided that they would open their membership to people of all ages. Some committee members were concerned that new members who were disruptive might cause problems for Craft & Connect Shed, and with open membership nothing could be done about it. But after other committee members explained that they could develop a code of conduct to set expectations for members, those fears were put to rest.
After updating their membership process and checking the other criteria, Craft & Connect Shed went ahead and applied for DGR endorsement.
End of example
ToolTime Co. is a club for people living in the Happy Meadows area. Local residents can join to make use of collective woodworking facilities, 3D printers and sewing machines.
The primary purpose of ToolTime Co. is to give people access to machines they might not have at home, to encourage creativity and learn new skills. While they are using the facilities they might enjoy the benefit of talking to other people and being in their company, but advancing mental health and preventing or relieving social isolation is not the primary purpose of the club.
The club briefly considered applying for DGR endorsement, but quickly identified that they did not qualify because of their restrictive membership, and because their dominant purpose was not advancing mental health and preventing or relieving social isolation. The club was happy with their existing structure and decided not to make any changes. They did not apply for DGR endorsement.
End of example
If you are considering applying for DGR endorsement, check your charitable NFP meets the criteria before you submit your application.
Learn more about DGR endorsement for Community sheds, or find out more about Deductible gift recipient eligibility in general.
Source: New places to play in Gungahlin
A tax professional can help you prepare and lodge a range of obligations. Tax professionals include tax and BAS agents who must be registered with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB). You can check whether a person is registered on the TPB websiteExternal Link.
Note that BAS agents can only provide some of the services tax agents are registered to provide. For example, while BAS agents can support you to meet your obligations, they can’t legally charge a fee to lodge a not-for-profit (NFP) organisation self-review return or income tax return on your behalf. You can find more information about the difference between tax agents and BAS agents at Finding and using a tax practitionerExternal Link.
We have enhanced our protections against identity-related fraud and theft, so if you choose to engage a new tax agent to lodge your NFP self-review return, you must nominate them as your NFP’s tax agent.
To nominate your tax agent:
Set up your digital ID, such as myID
Before you can complete steps 1 and 2, you must make sure you are the principal authorityExternal Link for your NFP. This is also known as the associate for your NFP.
For more detail about these steps visit How to nominate your registered agent, which includes a downloadable PDF guide with screenshots. You can also see Agent nomination for more information.
Source: New places to play in Gungahlin
Now we’re into the new financial year, it’s a good time to check whether your not-for-profit (NFP) organisation is up to date with its tax and super obligations.
There are different dates to be aware of based on what type of NFP your organisation is: taxable, charity, or one that self-assess as income tax exempt. And NFPs that employ staff or need to report and pay obligations like GST, PAYG instalments, PAYG withholding and FBT also have due dates to report and pay.
Non-charitable NFPs with an active Australian business number (ABN) who self-assess as income tax exempt must lodge the annual NFP self-review return by 31 October to notify us of your eligibility.
You can lodge the return online using Online services for business or by phoning our self-help phone service on 13 72 26. Or a registered tax agent can lodge the return for you.
Charitable NFPs have different reporting requirements. They need to be registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and endorsed by us to be income tax exempt.
Registered charities do not need to lodge an NFP self-review return or an income tax return but will need to meet annual reporting obligations with the ACNC.
Charitable NFPs cannot self-assess as income tax exempt, and if they are not registered with the ACNC and endorsed by the ATO they will be taxable.
Charitable NFPs may have obligations if you employ paid staff or are registered for GST – more on that below.
NFPs that are not eligible to self-assess or have charitable purposes and are not registered with the ACNC are taxable NFPs. They must either lodge an income tax return or notify us of a non-lodgment advice, generally by 15 May. This is based on your NFP’s income:
While most taxable NFPs will need to lodge by 15 May, if you have an ATO approved SAP, your due date is determined by your approved balance date.
If your NFP employs staff, you need to be aware of your Obligations when people work for you. If you missed this overview when we shared it last month, check it out to learn more about key dates for obligations including:
There’s also more information to help you get your employer obligations right, with helpful resources for employers.
You can also find helpful information specifically for NFPs at Activity statements for not-for-profits. Learn more about when to lodge activity statements to report and pay obligations like GST, and more information about PAYG instalments, PAYG withholding and FBT.
To make it easier to track your key obligations, you can use the NFP tax, super and registry responsibilities checklist. Follow along during the year and check off the tasks for your NFP as you go.
If you need more help with understanding your reporting obligations, visit the Statements and returns landing page.
SubscribingExternal Link to our monthly Not-for-profit newsletter is another great way to stay up to date with anything new happening in the sector.
And if you have further questions, you can phone us on 1300 130 248 between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm, Monday to Friday.
Source: New South Wales Ministerial News
The City of Greater Bendigo is deeply saddened by the passing of former Mayor and Councillor Peter Cox OAM, who died peacefully at Bendigo Hospice on July 31, 2025, following a short battle with cancer. He was 76.
Peter served the Bendigo community with distinction, including as a Greater Bendigo Councillor from 2008 to 2016 and as Mayor from 2014 to 2015. His leadership was marked by a deep commitment to social justice, environmental sustainability, and grassroots community engagement.
A recipient of the Order of Australia Medal in 2022, Peter was widely respected for his tireless advocacy across a range of causes—from road safety and heritage preservation to employment and waste reduction. His legacy includes the development of the Eaglehawk Enterprise Park and Recycle Shop, and his role as President of the Bendigo branch of the National Trust, where he championed the protection of the region’s rich history.
Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf acknowledged Peter’s legacy and service to Bendigo.
“Peter was a visionary leader and a passionate advocate for Bendigo. His contributions have left a lasting impact on our city and its people. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved one,” Cr Metcalf said.
Councillors and staff extend their condolences to Peter’s children, Raul, Joel and Zac, Peter’s siblings Toni, Michael and Patrick as well as extended family and friends.
Source: Australian Attorney General’s Agencies
I am pleased to announce that our fifth new trade mission, delivered by the Albanese Labor Government within 100 days of our second term, has arrived in Japan.
Japan is one of Australia’s most trusted and enduring trading partners with two-way trade in 2023–24 reaching approximately $104 billion. The opportunities in this market for Australian businesses are significant and growing.
As part of this mission, twelve First Nations-owned businesses will travel to Osaka and Tokyo, with each business showcasing the strength and innovation of the world’s oldest continuing cultures, to coincide with Te Aratini Indigenous Peoples Week at the 2025 Osaka World Expo.
Australia’s Pavilion at the Osaka World Expo has welcomed well over a million visitors, and through our partnership with States, Territories and iconic Australian brands, we’ve showcased the best of Australia’s goods and services to the world. That means more opportunities for our exporters and more well-paying jobs for Australians.
This mission reflects the Albanese Labor Government’s strong commitment to ensuring our First Nations people share in the benefits and prosperity that flow from trade and investment.
We have already taken significant steps to embed First Nations interests into our trade agenda, with the signing of a first ever chapter on First Nations in our landmark trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates. This agreement, when fully implemented, will remove tariffs on over 99 per cent of Australian exports and deliver cheaper prices at the checkout for Australian households.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The NT Police Force has arrested three youths after an aggravated robbery occurred in Karama on Monday evening.
Around 6:45pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received a report that a woman had allegedly been robbed by two youths while walking near Robyn Leslie Park.
It is alleged the victim was approached by a male and female youth, one of which was armed with an edged weapon, who demanded her phone and money. The offenders then stole her phone and wallet before fleeing the scene.
A short time later, Casuarina general duties officers located and arrested three youths aged, 10, 12 and 14, at a shopping complex on Leanyer Drive, Leanyer.
The 14-year-old female was later charged with aggravated robbery and the 12 and 10-year-old males were each charged with breach of bail.
One 10-year-old male was granted police bail and the 14-year-old female, and 10-year-old male will face court today.
Police urge anyone with information about the incident to make contact on 131 444, quoting reference number P25207586. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Source: Murray Darling Basin Authority
A new Suburban University Study Hub has opened today in Macquarie Fields, bringing university closer for students in Sydney’s south-west suburbs.
Nearly half of young Australians have a degree, but not in Macquarie Fields where only around 29 per cent of young people have a degree.
The evidence shows that where Study Hubs are, university participation goes up.
The new Suburban Study Hub Macquarie Fields will offer support services and study facilities for local students enrolled at any university or Vocational Education and Training provider.
The new locations are part of the Albanese Government’s $66.9 million investment to more than double the number of University Study Hubs across the country.
For more information: Suburban University Study Hubs – Department of Education, Australian Government
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare:
“Almost one in two young people have a university degree today. But not everywhere. Not in our outer suburbs like Macquarie Fields, and not in regional Australia.
“That’s why we are doubling the number of University Study Hubs, to bring university closer to them.
“We know they work. The evidence is they increase the number of people going to uni in areas where they are established.
“Now for the first time, we are putting these University Study Hubs in the outer suburbs.
“I know growing up in Western Sydney, a lot of my friends felt like university was somewhere else for someone else.
“We are changing this, and that means bringing university closer to where people live.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Hughes David Moncrieff:
“The opening of Suburban Study Hub Macquarie Fields marks an important day for our local community.
“As someone who attended a local university campus in the community, I know first-hand the difference that having access to nearby study options makes to busy students.
“This critical partnership between the Australian Government and the NSW state government will provide more options for local students who aspire to gain a tertiary qualification from right here in my community.”