From the Cape down to Bundaberg, right to the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef, Queenslanders know that environmental protection isn’t an option.
Because when you protect the Reef, you protect Queensland jobs – 77,000 of them, supported by the Reef, which generate $95 billion for the Australian economy.
That is why the passage of Australia’s new environmental laws matters so deeply to communities across Queensland. It is vital to livelihoods, our identity and our economy.
That’s why David Crisafulli and the Queensland Government need to back in these changes.
The Albanese Labor Government said we would fix our broken environmental laws to protect the natural assets that support regional economies and speed up approval processes. This is exactly what we have done.
One of the most significant reforms is the tightening of land-clearing rules near riverbeds and floodplains in the Great Barrier Reef catchment. This means that any clearing within 50 metres of riverside vegetation will now be required to go through the same assessment processes as every other development.
Illegal land clearing close to river systems sends sediment, nutrients and agricultural runoff straight into the waters that feed the Reef. Over time, that pollution smothers coral, fuels crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks and weakens the resilience of the world’s greatest natural wonder. The science on this has been clear for decades. The question was never whether action was needed – it was whether government had the courage to take it.
Now we have.
By strengthening protections along river corridors, these new laws will reduce the flow of pollutants before they ever reach the sea. That means clearer water, stronger coral growth and a more resilient Reef in the face of climate pressure. It means better conditions for fishers, tourism operators and the communities whose jobs depend on a healthy Reef and provides greater certainty for farmers and landholders.
The Crisafulli Government has talked a big game on tourism and how important the Great Barrier Reef is to the Queensland economy. Now is the Premier’s chance to put Queenslanders first, to work with the Albanese Labor Government to protect jobs now and into the future.
Australians did not vote for more noise. They voted for action.
While the Coalition argues amongst itself about whether climate change even exists, our Government is focused on building the clean industries, regional jobs and environmental protections that a net-zero future requires.
That is what our Government is doing. And from Cairns, from the Reef, and from the rivers that sustain it, the message is clear: this reform matters – and it is long overdue.
Originally published in the Cairns Post on Friday, 5 December 2025.
Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture
5 December 2025
Who does this notice affect?
All Biosecurity Industry Participants subscribed to receive Import Industry Advice Notice notifications from the department.
All Biosecurity Industry Participants who utilise / engage with the departments import-related IT systems for the management of imported cargo, conveyances and inspection booking services, including those who subscribe to receive email notifications for departmental Import Industry Advice Notices.
Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture
5 December 2025
Who does this notice affect?
This notice affects all importers and pet transport agents who intend to import live companion or assistance dogs into Australia, and departmental officers who examine animals and assess their documentation for import into Australia. This notice also affects international official government veterinarians and licenced veterinarians preparing animals for export to Australia.
Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture
5 December 2025
Who does this notice affect?
Stakeholders in the import and shipping industries—including vessel masters, freight forwarders, offshore treatment providers, Biosecurity Industry Participants, importers, customs brokers, principal agents and master consolidators.
What has changed?
Following identification of critical non-compliance, we have listed Ecolab – Alabama (AEI: US4020SB) as ‘suspended’ on the…
Today, the Victorian Government launched the Victorian Alcohol and Other Drugs strategy 2025-35.
The Strategy sets a 10-year vision to reduce alcohol and other drug (AOD) related harm and stigma, to maximise the health, mental health and wellbeing of Victorians.
The Strategy reflects a holistic approach that balances prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery. It was shaped through consultation with people with lived and living experience, service providers, Aboriginal communities, and sector partners.
It focuses on five priorities:
Better information and easier access to services
Stronger and increased flexibility in harm reduction and treatment options
Culturally safe and self-determined responses for Aboriginal Victorians
System innovation and continuous improvement
Greater coordination across mental health, housing, justice and other services.
The Strategy delivers on the $95.1 million Statewide Action Plan, which included a commitment to build a 10-year strategy to guide long term development of the AOD system and services.
Over the next decade, the Strategy will help deliver a more compassionate, coordinated and connected system. A system that ensures people, families and communities can get the care they need, when they need it, and live healthier, safer lives.
Laurie has fought fires in France, New Caledonia and Australia
South Morang Fire Brigade volunteer Laurie Naveaux knew she wanted to be a firefighter from a young age.
Originally hailing from Oyonnax, France, Laurie joined CFA three years ago – marking the third fire service she has been a member of around the globe.
“I first joined as a junior cadet when I was 12 years old in France. I became a part-time firefighter when I was 16, and still at school. I just fell in love with it,” Laurie said.
“When I turned 18, my parents told me ‘you have to go to university!’, and I thought, ‘but I just want to be a firefighter!’. I continued as a part-time firefighter in France, while also doing my degree.”
In 2014, Laurie moved to New Caledonia with her partner. She continued her role as a part-time firefighter, joining the New Caledonia Fire Service.
When her full-time work brought them to Australia, Laurie’s only condition for the move was that she was wanted to continue in some capacity as a firefighter.
“The only thing I said to them [her work] was ‘I need to continue my journey as a firefighter’, and that’s how I ended up becoming a CFA volunteer.”
Joining South Morang Fire Brigade helped Laurie settle into her new home.
“It definitely helped me make new connections in the community when I first moved to Australia. When you spend time with people with the same mindset and the same values as you, you grow those relationships with people and make those connections.”
Laurie said volunteering with CFA combines her love of firefighting with helping others.
“At the end of the day, I wasn’t doing it because of the pay. It’s in my blood, it’s in my DNA – I just love helping the community, being there for a fire call, or any type of call,” Laurie said.
“I have the firefighting side of what I loved in the past, and helping the community, being there for them and trying to handle any situation for them.”
Today CFA celebrates International Volunteer Day, an annual celebration of the contributions volunteers make to society globally. This year’s theme ‘every contribution matters’ celebrates the thousands of CFA volunteers across Victoria, including Laurie, who contribute daily, in many different ways, to making Victoria a safer place.
We recognise the dedication and spirit of our members to protecting their communities, and celebrate and thank them for their commitment – today and every day.
The FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow features 3D designs and music.
In brief:
The FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow + Night Markets are on from 24 – 26 January.
The show was popular last year and promises a great family night out.
This story includes all you need to know about the event.
FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow + Night Markets will return on the Australia Day long weekend.
The Canberra sky will transform into a canvas of lights over three nights: 24 – 26 January 2026.
There will be:
a sky show with 3D designs and music
night markets and entertainment at Commonwealth Place.
The show
FLIGHT 2026 promises to be a great night for locals and visitors alike.
Entry is free and bookings are not required.
Over 15 minutes, experience a dazzling sky show. Hundreds of drones will move through the sky to a musical soundtrack, lighting up the sky with amazing 3D designs.
There will be two shows each evening:
show 1: 9 pm – 9:15 pm
show 2: 10 pm – 10:15 pm.
Bring a chair or a picnic blanket and enjoy one or both shows.
Event hubs and alternative viewing locations
Event hubs will be set up at:
Commonwealth Place
Kings Park.
Night markets and entertainment
Food and drink stalls will be set up in both hubs from 5 pm – 10:30 pm each night.
Bring your appetite and sample tasty dishes or browse market stalls (only at Commonwealth Place).
There will also be plenty of entertainment to keep the family smiling as you await the show.
Getting there
E-scooters: Commonwealth Place is a no-ride zone. There will be designated e-scooter parking on either side of the event areas.
ACT ambulances are now equipped with handmade toys to reassure young patients.
In brief:
ACT ambulances are now equipped with handmade toys to reassure young patients.
The toys were made and donated by volunteers at local charity Good Omen Goodeze.
The ACT Ambulance Service say the toys are already having a positive impact.
New handmade toys are bringing comfort to young patients being transported by ambulance.
Local charity Good Omen Goodeze Inc. has donated a range of lovingly crafted toys and ‘fiddle mitts’ to the ACT Ambulance Service.
The toys are now on hand in paramedic kits to help young patients feel calmer.
Being in an ambulance can be emotional for children. Sirens, medical equipment and unfamiliar faces can be a lot to take in.
Providing a soft toy to hold is an easy, gentle way to help them feel safe in a stressful situation.
Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service (NEPT) team leader Paul Hughes has witness this firsthand.
‘While trying to reassure our patient as we moved out to the ambulance, I was still aware that they were still emotionally overwhelmed,’ he said.
‘The situation was transformed when I gave the patient a knitted doll with a red dress. The patient burst into tears of joy.’
This is just one of the many stories.
‘The work we do to support their patients is only possible because of the generosity, skill and kindness of our amazing GOG members and supporters,’ a representative from Good Omen Goodeze said.
‘Every stitch, every handmade Goodie, every bit of time you give helps make a real difference to people in their most vulnerable moments.’
This article lists op shops and thrift stores selling second-hand goods across Canberra.
It includes some benefits of buying second-hand instead of new.
It also looks at different ways you can support the Canberra community.
Looking for that perfect outfit, a cute vase or comfy chair?
There’s no need to shop for something new. Canberra has lots of great thrift stores for everyone.
Thrifting is more than just a trend – it’s a smart and sustainable way to shop. Australians are embracing second-hand fashion, as well as repairing clothes and reselling items to extend their life.
Why is buying second-hand is important
It reduces waste and pollution.
It can save you money – second-hand items are usually cheaper than those bought new.
It supports the community – the money goes back into supporting local people and services, many of which are charities.
It encourages re-use. Op shopping can be part of a more sustainable way of living, helping reduce the 222,000+ tonnes of clothing that ends up in landfill each year.
What can you find in Canberra’s thrift stores?
It may be more of a case of what can’t you find? Local thrift stores stock a wealth of items, including:
furniture
clothing, including designer pieces
gardening and outdoor equipment
electrical goods
bikes, skateboards, scooters, including those for kids
antiques.
Hunting for a bargain, a vintage treasure or just want to shop more sustainably? Check out this list of Canberra thrift stores.
Be sure to check opening times before you head in.
A second-hand clothing and accessories store with a resale service for all your designer goods. It’s currently located in four states and territories around Australia.
Shop a huge range of quality clothing, shoes, toys, household goods and more. There’s everything from modern jewellery to kitchen items that spark nostalgia.
Lifeline Canberra’s permanent store offers books, DVDs, CDs, puzzles, comics and more. Stock from their popular bookfairs is refreshed daily, so there’s always something new to discover.
A family-owned favourite. It specialises in buying and selling antique, vintage and retro items. These include clothing, furniture, collectibles and books.
For lovers of antiques, vintage treasures and handcrafted pieces. Dirty Janes offers a thoughtfully curated collection and a warm, community-focused shopping experience.
A collective of passionate small businesses, each specialising in a diverse range of unique collectibles. Shop pre-loved designer fashion, vintage and retro treasures, interiors, luxury consignment and more.
A specialist second-hand store buying and selling recent designer pieces. Visit this popular shop to discover designer labels and unique finds from emerging talent.
The Salvos have some of the biggest op-shops in Canberra, with something for everyone. You can find second-hand furniture, clothes, toys, homewares, linens and much, much more.
Pay a visit for good-quality clothes and accessories. The Phillip store mostly sells clothes and shoes, but there’s also a small section with books and toys.
These popular stores always offer a large range of clothes, kids’ toys, books and accessories. If you’re out in the evening, the Braddon and Dickson stores are often open until 8:30pm for late-night shopping.
Goodies Junction– Mitchell and Mugga Lane Resource Management Centres
You can find almost anything – books, furniture, kids’ toys, clothes, bikes, outdoor furniture, electronics and more. Drop off things you no longer need and maybe find something new to take home.
These community events are held to fix broken household items, so they don’t end up in landfill. Volunteers carry out repairs for free (but you may need to pay for parts). You can also volunteer or learn how to fix things yourself!
Commonly fixed items include clothes, electronics, bikes, toys, tools, blankets and phones. What can be fixed depends on which volunteers are there, so it’s best to check with the organiser first.
Lifeline Bookfairs likely need no introduction. These popular events raise money for local crisis support services.
There are loads of books of all genres, from kids’ books to textbooks and bestsellers to books in other languages. Plus, there are magazines, comics, maps, CDs, DVDs, games and puzzles.
This niche Canberra market is dedicated to sustainable fashion. Stalls sell high-end designer and vintage clothing and accessories, and only quality gently used or new goods are accepted.
‘Australia’s Biggest Curated Fashion Market’, Fashion Thrift Society aims to change the way people shop. It comes to Canberra each year, bringing cool vintage and pre-loved clothes to the capital. Local brands also show their unique styles.
It’s more than shopping; it’s a fun festival with fashion, music and a friendly group of people who love style.
When this event runs in Canberra, it often sells out. It’s a must if you love shopping for vintage and pre-loved clothes while supporting small businesses. And yep, everything is priced by the kilo. Keep an eye on upcoming events.
WORKPLACE THRIFTS
Why not organise your own clothing swaps at work? Give your team a fun, sustainable way to refresh your wardrobes by exchanging unwanted items.
ONLINE THRIFTING
Facebook Marketplace, Buy, Swap, Sell and second-hand groups are great places to buy and sell your second-hand goods.
Buy and sell on Depop
Using this app, you can find one-of-a-kind fashion pieces you won’t see in regular stores, often at cheaper prices. It encourages people to reuse clothes instead of throwing them away. Plus, it supports small sellers.
Rent a dress
Instead of buying a new dress for a special event you might only wear once, try renting one. It can save you money and is better for the planet.
Many Australian companies offer dress rentals and have large collections of designer outfits for weddings, school formals and parties.
Want the best deal? Protect yourself from scams.
Buying and selling second-hand goods online can be risky if you’re not scam aware.