All regions

A White Spot outbreak has successfully been contained in Northern NSW, with results confirming the estuary surrounding an infected premises is clear of the disease. Minister for Agriculture Dugald Saunders said the swift and effective response in the eradication of this disease reiterates the strength of the NSW Government’s biosecurity practices. “The moment White Spot was detected in farmed Black Tiger Prawns at a production facility last month, the NSW Government immediately convened an emergency response,” Mr Saunders said. “We quickly implemented formal measures to contain the disease and prevent further spread from the facility, including the destruction of stock […]

The NSW Government is working with Optus to support customers affected by the recent cyberattack. Optus has confirmed some customers may have had a range of information accessed, including passport and driver licence details, as a result of the breach. Information potentially accessed will vary depending on what was originally provided by the customer to Optus. Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said customers in NSW can immediately begin the recovery process by ordering a replacement licence. “A $29 replacement fee will be charged and reimbursement advice will be issued by Optus,” Mr Saunders said. “The replacement licence will

The NSW Government has taken another step towards fast tracking the world first mRNA vaccines for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Lumpy Skin Disease, inking a deal with US biotechnology company Tiba Biotech. Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said today marks an important milestone towards securing the vaccine technology that will protect Australia’s $28.7 billion livestock industry. “The NSW Nationals in Government are taking the threat of FMD and Lumpy Skin Disease extremely seriously, and this milestone is another step forward in preparing for a potential outbreak,” Mr Toole said. “I have now written to

Members of the community are encouraged to celebrate the outstanding work women do in our local councils by making a nomination for the 2022 Ministers’ Women in Local Government Awards. Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said the annual awards are a chance to recognise female councillors and staff from Dubbo Regional, Mid-Western Regional, and Narromine Shire Councils, who make invaluable contributions to improve our daily lives. “There are many women playing a vital role in making our local council and community stronger through their hard work and bold ideas,” Mr Saunders said. “Community members can nominate a female

The NSW Drug Court will start sitting at Dubbo on February 20 next year. Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said the Drug Court will make a real difference to the region. “This is the first court of its kind in regional NSW and a great win for our community,” Mr Saunders said. “Beating addiction and drug use is not just a criminal justice issue, but also a health issue. “The Drug Court is proven to be efficient at driving down crime, and its opening on February 20 will be a great day not just for our community, but for

Community groups can apply for $3,000 grants for projects supporting local veterans or boosting awareness of their role in Australia’s military history. Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said applications are now open for the $100,000 Anzac Community Grants Program and urged locals to apply. “Veterans past and present served to keep us safe and this is a great chance to recognise their sacrifices, while enriching our communities,” Mr Saunders said. “Maybe it’s restoring a medals’ display cabinet, creating an interactive remembrance garden or researching a local veteran; let’s see what our community ideas and needs are.” Grants cover

Some of the Dubbo electorate’s most disadvantaged young people will be supported to achieve their academic aspirations as part of the NSW Government’s Youth Development Scholarships program. Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders encouraged eligible youth in the Dubbo electorate to apply for the $1000 grant. “Focusing on school is not always easy, especially if you’re facing challenges with your health, caring duties, home life, or the cost of education and training,” Mr Saunders said. “The Scholarship will provide a financial boost to disadvantaged young people to give them the tools they need to finish their studies. “Students can

Primary producers affected by the February-March flooding event in New South Wales this year can now access additional funding of up to $100,000 thanks to a jointly funded program developed by the Commonwealth and NSW governments. The $100 million Critical Producer Grant Program will provide primary producers hardest hit by floods with support to restore production systems and rebuild essential infrastructure to a standard that will better withstand future disasters. Federal Minister for Emergency Management Senator the Hon Murray Watt said the Australian and New South Wales Governments remain committed to the recovery of flood-affected primary producers. “We recognise that