Editors Picks
02 February 2025
GOVT'S INCENTIVE GOOD BUT NOT GREAT
THE Australian Government's $10,000 incentive for apprentices in residential construction and clean energy is welcomed by the Independent Tertiary Education Council of Australia (TECA) but criticised for overlooking widespread skills shortages across industries like agriculture, healthcare, tourism, and ICT. While the $627M initiative supports recruitment and retention in targeted sectors, it fails to address systemic gaps in small business support and broader workforce needs. ITECA urges inclusive policies to strengthen Australia's apprenticeship system across all industries.
02 February 2025
HCF SUPPORTS SMITH FAMILY PROGRAM
HCF, Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund, has partnered with The Smith Family to support 1,500 disadvantaged students through the Learning for Life program. This three-year partnership provides financial, personal, and educational resources to help break the cycle of poverty and improve health outcomes. HCF employees will also volunteer in program activities. With 63,000 students already benefiting, the initiative highlights education’s vital role in building healthier, more equitable communities across Australia.
02 February 2025
STUDY SHOWS CONSTIPATION - HEART LINK
A MONASH University-led study links constipation to a higher risk of major adverse cardiac events (MACE), including heart attacks and strokes. Analysing data from over 400,000 participants, researchers found constipated individuals were twice as likely to experience MACE. Constipation also increased risks in hypertensive patients by 34%. Genetic correlations suggest shared factors between gut and heart health. With 14% of the global population affected, the study highlights gut health's role in cardiovascular disease prevention.
02 February 2025
ATM LAWS AT CLUBS, PUBS IN EFFECT
THE deadline for pubs and clubs to comply with new ATM laws is February 1, 2025, as part of the NSW Government's gambling harm minimisation reforms. ATMs and EFTPOS machines must be at least 5m from gaming rooms and out of sight. Non-compliance may lead to fines or prosecution. Other measures include reducing gaming machine caps, banning gambling signage, cashless gaming trials, and a $100M commitment to harm reduction efforts.
02 February 2025
200 NEW DEFRIBULATORS TO COMMUNITIES
THE NSW Government has announced the delivery of nearly 200 defibrillators to NSW sporting and recreation organisations, bringing the total to over 2,500 devices. These life-saving tools, funded through the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program, receive up to $3,000 for purchase, installation, and training. With $500,000 allocated annually, 80% of this round's funding supports regional and disadvantaged communities. Premier Chris Minns highlighted their vital role in saving lives during cardiac arrests.
02 February 2025
SALVOS URGE VIGILANCE WITH MONEY
THE Salvation Army urges Australians to reassess their finances in 2025, as 46% start the year in debt and 30% struggle to budget. Rising living costs and reliance on credit cards and buy now, pay later schemes have worsened financial pressures. The Salvos’ Moneycare service offers free financial counseling, tools, and resources to help individuals manage debt and avoid financial distress. Support is confidential and accessible online or via phone.
29 January 2025
FREE LEARNING EXPERIENCE FOR WATER MANAGEMENT
Did you know that 85% of our drinking water supply relies on the rain to fill our dams?
At Sydney Water they are exploring ways to be less reliant on rain, that’s why we have built NSW’s first Purified Recycled Water (PRW) Discovery Centre at Quakers Hill – and you’re invited! On Saturday February 1 and Saturday March 1, the SW Education Team will be guiding visitors through the PRW Discovery Centre. They will have TWO tour times available to choose from (10:00am or 11:30am). The tours are open to all ages. This FREE learning experience provides an opportunity to explore water management over time, see how purified recycled water treatment technology works by touring our working demonstration plant, and discover the importance of securing our water future.
What you need to know
Tours run for 1 hour at 10.00am or 11:30am. It’s free! 240 Quakers Road, Quakers Hill NSW. Spaces are limited - Bookings are essential
How to book
Register your interest by emailing PRWDiscoveryCentre@sydneywater.com.au. Can’t make a Saturday? We also run free tours during the week, email us to find out more!
