Call for information – Disturbance – Darwin

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Police are calling for information following an incident that occurred in Darwin City overnight.

Around 9:05pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports of a disturbance occurring at a licenced premises on the corner of Mitchell Street and Peel Street.

It is alleged that two males entered the premises and attempted to steal glassware, which they then threw at staff at the location. They were subsequently removed from the establishment by security and refused further entry.

CCTV operators observed a violent altercation between security staff and the 17-year-old before the he walked away from the area.

Police attended and spoke with staff at the location as well as located the 17-year-old male youth who refused treatment for his injuries.

Investigations into the incident remain ongoing.

Police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444, quoting reference number P25320131. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

Public health warning: Multiple high dose MDMA (ecstasy) tablets and capsules, ketamine analogues circulating in NSW

Source: New South Wales Health – State Government

​NSW Health is warning the community of the risks of illicit drug use after detecting two substances of concern recently.  

The first warning concerns multiple MDMA (ecstasy) tablets and capsules containing a higher dose than usually circulates in tested community samples.  
Ketamine-like substances, or analogues, have also been detected in white powder and crystalline matter. 

Both substances were detected by the NSW Government’s drug checking trial at last weekend’s Strawberry Fields event in Tocumwal, in Southern NSW.
No festival attendees experienced an overdose requiring hospitalisation, and one public drug warning was issued to patrons on Friday night for the MDMA tablets.​
NSW Health is concerned the substances are still in circulation and drug checking, through the NSW Government’s drug checking trial, will be available at the Hypersonic music event taking place at Sydney Showground in western Sydney this Saturday.
NSW Health Chief Addiction Medicine Specialist, Dr Hester Wilson said it was also concerning it will be hot this weekend, with temperatures expected to be in the 30’s.
“High doses of MDMA can cause severe agitation, raised body temperature, seizures or fits, irregular heart rhythm and death,” Dr Wilson said.
“These risks are greatly increased if MDMA is used with other stimulants, such as amphetamines or cocaine, or if high amounts are consumed over a short period.
“The amount of MDMA in a tablet or capsule can vary significantly, even within the same batch.”
“Hot environments, such as at music festivals, increase the risk of harm from MDMA. Taking a break from dancing, seeking shade and drinking water are important measures to reduce the risk of overheating.”
There have also been detections of ketamine analogues in white powders and crystalline substances expected to contain ketamine or amphetamine. Ketamine analogues copy ketamine’s chemical makeup but can produce different effects, including stronger dissociation or hallucinations.
Ketamine-like substances, or analogues, can cause seizures and irregular heart rhythm. There is potential for greater harm if the ketamine analogue is taken in combination with depressant drugs, such as alcohol, GHB, benzodiazepines, or opioids, or with stimulants (such as methamphetamine, cocaine or MDMA).
“If you or a friend has taken drugs and feel unwell, you won’t get into trouble for seeking medical care. Please seek help immediately by calling Triple Zero (000),” said Dr Wilson.
At music festivals, there are experienced onsite medical providers and teams of well-trained peer volunteers from programs such as DanceWize NSW who are ready to support you at many major festivals. Other event staff are also trained to help patrons.
For more information about staying safe, including the warning signs to seek help, see Stay OK at Music Festivals.
For information about the potential adverse effects of MDMA, please contact the NSW Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.
For support and information with alcohol, MDMA and other drugs, please contact the Alcohol and Drug Information Service on 1800 250 015. This is a 24/7 service offering confidential and anonymous telephone counselling and information.
NSW Users and AIDS Association (NUAA) also provides a range of harm minimisation resources and advice and can be reached on 1800 644 413.
Images and more information are available at Public drug warnings.

New on-lead areas to protect local wildlife

Source: Government of Western Australia

Wanneroo Council has approved changes that will require dogs to be on leads at 18 of the City’s nature reserves and parks.

The change aims to better protect native wildlife while responding to community feedback about fragile natural areas.

The decision follows community consultation earlier this year, of the 493 City respondents, 56 per cent supported the proposal, 10 per cent neither agreed or disagreed and 34 per cent did not support the proposal.

Mayor Linda Aitken said the change aims to balance the needs of dog owners with the protection of City’s natural areas.

“These reserves are home to important plants and animals,” she said.

“We have listened to the community and taken a balanced approach that protects these natural areas while still supporting our community’s love of dogs with hundreds of other places where dogs can be off lead.”

Dogs will continue to be welcome in the 18 reserves but must be on a lead and under effective control at all times. The City is now preparing to install clear signage at these locations.

The change applies only to the selected 18 reserves and parks, which excludes Lake Joondalup Park and Scenic Park. There remain 562 other parks and reserves in the City where dogs can continue to exercise off lead, including designated parks in Eglinton, Wanneroo and Madeley.

These changes will come into effect from March 2026. A $200 on-the-spot fine may apply if a dog is not on a lead in the designated on-lead areas.

Reserves and parks where dogs must now be on lead:
Lake Gnangara Park, Gnangara
Badgerup Reserve, Wanneroo
Lake Adams, Mariginiup
Koondoola Open Space & Reserve, Koondoola
Chancellor Park & Marangaroo Golf Course, Marangaroo
Lake Joondalup Foreshore, Wanneroo
Pinjar Park, Neerabup
Landsdale Park, Darch
Hepburn Park, Landsdale
Donnelly Park, Wanneroo
Banyadah Park, Wanneroo
Rotary Park, Wanneroo
Studmaster Park, Wanneroo
Panzano Park, Woodvale
Rosso Park, Woodvale
Solana Park, Marangaroo
Quinns Foreshore Reserve, Quinns Rocks
Poinciana Park, Wanneroo
Kinsdale Park, Mindarie

Celebrating excellence: Victorian Public Healthcare Awards winners announced

Source: Australian Capital Territory Policing

27/11/25

Victoria’s brightest healthcare leaders and innovators were celebrated last night at the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards gala night, recognising outstanding contributions across the state’s public health system.

Held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the gala brought together health leaders, clinicians, volunteers and sector partners for an evening of celebration and connection. The room was filled with genuine pride as guests acknowledged the extraordinary dedication and impact of people working across Victoria’s healthcare system.

The Victorian Public Healthcare Awards recognise leadership and excellence in the provision of publicly funded healthcare in response to established and emerging community needs. This year’s ceremony highlighted initiatives that strengthen care, advance equity and support healthier futures for all Victorians.

Awards were presented across the following categories:

  • Care in the community
  • Creating a sustainable and climate-resilient health system
  • Excellence in mental health and wellbeing
  • Excellence in public sector residential aged care services
  • Excellence in value-based healthcare
  • Excellence in women’s health
  • Excellence in Aboriginal health and wellbeing
  • Excellence in equity, diversity and inclusion
  • Celebrating a strong and sustainable workforce
  • Partnering in healthcare
  • Health Volunteer Team of the Year

The gala also recognised excellence across four categories of The Premier’s Health Service of the Year Awards. These awards are Victoria’s most prestigious accolades for health services, celebrating leadership and outstanding performance in the delivery of publicly funded healthcare to the Victorian community.

The Department of Health was also proud to honour Victoria’s dedicated health volunteers with more than 30 years of service, recognising their essential role in supporting services and caring for communities across the state.

This year’s Victorian Public Healthcare Award winners represent the very best of Victorian public healthcare – organisations and individuals who have gone above and beyond to deliver high-quality, compassionate and innovative services.

Explore the full list of 2025 Victorian Public Healthcare Awards winners and finalists.

Resilience after a life-changing accident

Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

Maddison Colville was one of five finalists in the Apprenticeship Employment Network, Overcoming Adversity Award.

Maddison Colville, 19, was seven days into her apprenticeship as a CFA District Mechanical Officer in Corio when tragedy struck.

She was involved in a horrific car accident and suffered significant injuries that nearly claimed her life.  

In recognition of her incredible perseverance and resilience, Maddison was one of five finalists in the Apprenticeship Employment Network, Overcoming Adversity Award this month. While she did not win the award, it was a recognition of her courage and determination.  

CFA Aerial Technician and Maddison’s supervisor at work, Peter Tippet said the accident had not slowed Maddison down as she came back and excelled at everything she’s done. 

“She’s got a great work ethic and is like a sponge, just soaking up all the information you give her,” Peter said. 

”With what she went through to be a finalist is like she’s won it anyway.”  

Maddison’s affiliation for cars began at an early age – she was born into a family of car enthusiasts. 

“We go to car shows quite a lot. Dad loves his old Holdens,” said Maddison.  

“We also go four-wheel-driving. When you’re in the middle of the bush and you’ve got a problem, you have to find a way to fix it. 

“I worked seven days of my apprenticeship and was starting to get to know everyone and then had my accident and had to have three months off work.  

Maddison spent two weeks in the Intensive Care Unit as a result of her horrific injuries. From there she fought through weeks of physio before returning to work three months later.  

“I did have lots of enthusiasm from my coworkers that I could continue on in the job and do it after the accident.” Maddison said.  

“My favorite part of working at CFA is no day is the same. 

“I did valve clearances on one of the trucks pretty early on, which most people don’t really get that opportunity.  

“A few weeks later I went to trade school and the topic was valve clearances and I was the only one that knew how to do it. It was really good to show and teach everybody else.  

Maddison’s advice to other woman that aspire to be a DMO is give it a go. 

  • Maddison is an apprentice DMO with CFA
  • Maddison suffered life-threatening injuries as a result of an accident
Submitted by CFA Media

New panellists join the National Capital Design Review Panel

Source: Australian Capital Territory – State Government




New panellists join the National Capital Design Review Panel – 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 27/11/2025

The ACT Government has welcomed the appointment of more than 60 new and returning panellists to the National Capital Design Review Panel (NCDRP).

Panellists on the NCDRP provide expert independent and peer reviews of major development proposals in the ACT to help achieve the best design outcomes for buildings, infrastructure and public places in Canberra. They work closely with the ACT Government Architect and the National Capital Authority’s Chief Planner.

The ACT Government Architect Catherine Townsend has also had her appointment extended for an additional term until August 2026.

Minister for Planning and Sustainable Development Chris Steel said the NCDRP and the ACT Government Architect play a key role in ensuring development proposals in the ACT achieve their full potential.

“The Government established the National Capital Design Review Panel to put design at the heart of the ACT’s planning system,” Minister Steel said.

“Our city is growing and densifying and the advice the panel, not only supports aesthetic design improvements for buildings proposed over five storeys,  but improvements to how they function and contribute to great places for people.

“The extension of the panel follows a national expression of interest process to make sure that we have the best professionals across the country reviewing major developments in the ACT.”

The NCDRP consists of experts from the ACT and across Australia and covers all design areas so advice is tailored to each proposal to achieve the best possible benefits for the ACT Community.

Panellists represent experience and skills across a broad range of professions including Architecture and Landscape Architecture, Planning and Urban Design, and Civil Engineering.

“Integral to the success of the NCDRP is the ACT Government Architect, and the extension of Catherine Townsend’s appointment ensures a continuation of strong, high-quality architecture and design outcomes for the city. Ms Townsend’s leadership and wealth of knowledge and experience will support the refreshed panel,” Minister Steel said.

“I congratulate all of the panellists and Catherine Townsend on their appointments. I look forward to their contribution in bringing the best planning outcomes to the ACT.”

Learn more about the National Capital Design Review Panel and the ACT Government Architect on the City and Environment Directorate webpage.

Quotes attributable to ACT Government Architect, Catherine Townsend:

“Each Design Review Panel (DRP) plays a vital role in supporting high-quality built outcomes across Canberra.

“Projects reviewed range from the city-shaping Canberra Theatre Redevelopment, to the much-anticipated Stromlo Forest Anglican College in Molonglo, to infill apartment developments such as Altiora in Braddon.

“In each instance, the panel focused on achieving high-quality design outcomes that enhance amenity and contribute positively to their surrounding context.

“We look forward to continuing the important work of peer-review with the refreshed panel of independent experts.”

– Statement ends –

Chris Steel, MLA | Media Releases

«ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

397-2025: Modernisation of ‘Guidelines for airline and aircraft operators arriving in Australian territory’

Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

27 November 2025

Who does this notice affect?

All airlines and aircraft operators arriving in Australian territory, their representatives and ground handling agents.

What has changed?

The department is releasing the modernised Biosecurity obligations for aircraft arriving in Australian territory (Biosecurity Obligations), immediately replacing the Guidelines for airlines and aircraft arriving in Australian territory (Aircraft Guidelines).

Boosting trade and business in the Pacific

Source: Australia Government Statements 2

The Albanese Labor Government is committing $23.2 million over the next five years to support Pacific Island PACER Plus Members to maximise trade and investment opportunities and enable Pacific businesses and communities to thrive.

The Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus (PACER Plus) is a regional trade and development agreement. It aims to make it easier for Pacific countries to trade, attract investment and grow their economies.

In collaboration with New Zealand’s commitment of NZ$10 million, we celebrate five years since the trade and development agreement entered into force.

The new investment was confirmed at the 2025 PACER Plus Ministerial Meeting in Solomon Islands.

Attributable to the Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Pat Conroy:

“For the past five years, the PACER PLUS free trade agreement has improved access to markets and investment, contributing to the creation of a more stable and prosperous Pacific.

“Our investment is supporting the Pacific’s key economic drivers: tourism, forestry, fisheries and agriculture to create more and better jobs across our region.

“We have listened to the Pacific’s priorities, and are working together on Pacific-led, Australian-backed solutions.”

Attributable to Assistant Minister for Pacific Island Affairs Nita Green:

“In a time of rapid change in the global trade environment, our region can be a source of reliability, predictability, and prosperity. As the primary vehicle driving regional economic integration, PACER Plus delivers both.”

“As a collective, the region can be more resilient to economic shocks, and we share the common sentiment in calling on fellow Pacific Islands Forum Members to consider joining PACER Plus.”

Northern Police intercept 477 drivers during targeted day of action

Source: Tasmania Police

Northern Police intercept 477 drivers during targeted day of action

Thursday, 27 November 2025 – 10:12 am.

Police intercepted nearly 500 drivers during targeted road safety operations across the Northern District yesterday.
During the operations on Wednesday 26 November, 29 drivers were intercepted for speeding including a woman who was also found to be disqualified from driving, in an unregistered vehicle with false plates.  
The driver’s grey Nissan Skyline was intercepted at Newnham by members of Northern Road Policing Services where she returned a positive drug test. 
The 29 year old from Rocherlea was arrested and is being proceeded against for multiple traffic offences, and her vehicle has been seized indefinitely.
Overall results from the day of action included: 

Intercepted 477 vehicles 
Conducted 477 breath tests. 
Detected 2 drug drivers.
Intercepted 3 disqualified drivers.
Detected 29 drivers exceeding the speed limit – including a driver travelling at 105km/h in an 80km/h zone on the East Tamar Highway at Mowbray, and a driver travelling 99km/h in an 80km/h zone on Pateena Road at Longford in wet conditions.
3 people were issued infringement notices for not wearing their seat belt. 
6 drivers were issued infringement notices for using their mobile phone while driving. 
5 unregistered vehicles were detected. 
17 defect notices were issued during a joint operation conducted by Tasmania Police and Transport Inspectors at George Town.

Tasmania Police is out on the roads every single day enforcing the road rules, and members of the public are urged to do their part to help police keep our roads safe for all motorists.
Members of the public are encouraged to report dangerous driving incidents witnessed on Tasmanian roads, to Tasmania Police.
Dangerous driving incidents currently unfolding should be reported if safe to do so to police by phoning 131 444. In a life-threatening emergency phone Triple Zero (000). 
Dangerous driving incidents which have been recorded by dashcam or mobile phone, can be later reported via a secure online portal to Tasmania Police at – https://taspol.au.evidence.com/axon/citizen/public/traffic_complaints 

Greater Bendigo recognised for excelling as a Welcoming City

Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

The City of Greater Bendigo is the first regional council and third in Australia to receive Welcoming Cities Accreditation at the Excelling Level, and the first to do so under the new national standards.  The Excelling Level Accreditation is assessed across six key areas – leadership, inclusion, economic development, civic participation, equitable access, and learning.

Welcoming Cities is a national network of cities, shires, towns and municipalities, who are committed to an Australia where everyone can belong and participate.  The network recognises that of all tiers of government, local councils are best placed to understand the complexity and diversity of their communities.

City of Greater Bendigo CEO Andrew Cooney said in 2020 the City of Greater Bendigo was the first local government in Australia to be accredited as a Welcoming City by the Welcoming Cities Network and is delighted to receive the further Excelling Level Accreditation.

“Achieving Excelling Accreditation as a Welcoming City recognises Greater Bendigo’s considerable commitment to cultural diversity, Aboriginal reconciliation and social cohesion,” Mr Cooney said.

“This latest milestone strengthens the City’s reputation as a national leader in inclusion and raises our profile at State, National and International levels.

“It sets a benchmark for the City to continue its work to improve services and ensure Greater Bendigo is a welcoming city for all.”

The City of Greater Bendigo was also recognised for its commitment to diversity and inclusion by winning a 2023 Victorian Multicultural Award for Excellence and winning the 2024 LGPro Award for Diversity and Inclusion.