Editors Picks
19 August 2024
BUSKING FOR VINNIES RETURNS TO PARRAMATTA
Local schools bring the music
SCHOOLS across Sydney will bring music to the streets of Parramatta as part of the annual ‘Busking for Vinnies’ initiative this August.
12 August 2024
FIND YOUR PARK AND RIDE SPOT
Real times data makes traveling easier
PUBLIC transport passengers in NSW can now drive to their preferred Transport Park&Ride commuter parking locations with confidence, thanks to real-time occupancy data being made available at twww.ransportnsw.info/parkandride
03 August 2024
STRATEGY FOR WORKPLACE HEALTH
THE NSW Government's SafeWork NSW Psychological Health and Safety Strategy 2024-2026 aims to help employers manage psychosocial risks and protect workers from psychological harm. Backed by $5.6M, the strategy supports small and medium businesses through programs by the Black Dog Institute and Transitioning Well. Initiatives include practical tools, resources for culturally diverse workers, and compliance visits. This effort addresses the $39B annual cost of workplace mental ill health and aims to retain top talent in NSW workplaces.
03 August 2024
82 NEW PARAMEDICS START
NSW Ambulance inducted 82 new paramedic interns in Sydney, with 54 from interstate and two from New Zealand. After a six-week induction, they'll begin the on-road portion of their 12-month internships across the state, mainly in regional areas. This addition supports NSW Ambulance's efforts to provide top emergency healthcare. The State Government is investing in additional paramedics and salary increases to support this workforce.
03 August 2024
GPs URGE REBATE INCREASE
.THE Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) released the 10th edition of its preventive guidelines, "the Red Book," emphasising mental health. New entries address anxiety, eating disorders, perinatal mental health, gambling, and more. RACGP President Dr. Nicole Higgins urged government support for GPs, particularly in rural areas, advocating for a 20% increase in patient rebates for longer mental health consultations. Professor Danielle Mazza highlighted the importance of early detection and treatment of mental health issues, especially perinatal anxiety and depression, encouraging patients to seek GP help.
03 August 2024
ACTU CRITCISES EELS HARDIE DEAL
THE ACTU and Asbestos Support Group Network has criticized the Parramatta Eels' sponsorship deal with James Hardie Industries, citing the company's history with asbestos and its impact on victims and communities. In a letter to the Eels' CEO, they argued that the sponsorship disregards the suffering of asbestos victims and endorses James Hardie's controversial past. Parramatta, with 50 contaminated sites, highlights the ongoing asbestos risk, with over 4,000 Australians dying annually from asbestos exposure
03 August 2024
INCREASES IN PRO BONO SERVICES
THE latest report on NSW solicitors shows an increase in pro bono legal services. Law Society President Brett McGrath praised the profession's commitment to justice, noting 42% of solicitors provided an average of 69 pro bono hours, totaling nearly $117M worth of work. The report also highlights progress in gender pay equality and career opportunities for women. New data on LGBQ+ solicitors and those with disabilities aims to drive greater inclusion. Fewer full-time solicitors are working over 50 hours a week, improving wellbeing
