PARRAMATTA is now home to a new Return and Earn depot designed to make recycling eligible bottles, cans and cartons easier than ever before. Parramatta Return and Earn Depot – the 15th return point in the Parramatta council area – was opened last week attended by local community groups and charities, including Ronald McDonald House Charity, Feel the Magic and The Smith Family. The staffed depot features the latest ‘tip and go’ technology, which can process up to 100 containers a minute, without the need to pre-sort containers. The depot also has standard Return and Earn machines ideal for recyclers with smaller amounts of drink containers to get their container refunds. Recyclers can print a voucher for the refund amount, which can be redeemed at Woolworths for a discount on their shopping or for cash, or opt for an e-voucher or payment directly into their bank or PayPal account using the Return and Earn app. Locals can also donate their refund to one of over 600 donation partners listed on the Return and Earn app, including Feel the Magic, which offers a range of support programs designed to help children cope with the loss of a loved one. Alternatively, recyclers can donate to the current statewide donation partner, The Smith Family, who help provide young people experiencing disadvantage with an equal chance to learn, and create better futures through the power of education. Parramatta Return and Earn Depot is located at 25 Argyle Street, Parramatta. Entry via car to the depot is via O’Connell Street. The depot is open daily between 7.00 am to 6.00 pm. For more information on Return and Earn visit: www.returnandearn.org.au. NSW Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis said: “City of Parramatta residents are enthusiastic recyclers, having returned over 172 million eligible bottles, cans and cartons through local return points since the scheme began in 2017. “More than 16 billion containers have been returned for recycling through the network of over 660 return points across NSW since Return and Earn began, resulting in over $1.6 billion in container refunds back in people’s pockets.” James Dorney, CEO, network operator TOMRA Cleanaway said: “It is conveniently located in Parramatta’s central business district and offers different ways for the community to return their eligible drink containers, from self-serve Return and Earn machines to staff-assisted recycling.” Danielle Smalley, CEO, scheme coordinator Exchange for Change said over $100M has been raised from donations and fees from hosting return points since the scheme launched.
PARRAMATTA is now home to a new Return and Earn depot designed to make recycling eligible bottles, cans and cartons easier than ever before. Parramatta Return and Earn Depot – the 15th return point in the Parramatta council area – was opened last week attended by local community groups and charities, including Ronald McDonald House Charity, Feel the Magic and The Smith Family. The staffed depot features the latest ‘tip and go’ technology, which can process up to 100 containers a minute, without the need to pre-sort containers. The depot also has standard Return and Earn machines ideal for recyclers with smaller amounts of drink containers to get their container refunds. Recyclers can print a voucher for the refund amount, which can be redeemed at Woolworths for a discount on their shopping or for cash, or opt for an e-voucher or payment directly into their bank or PayPal account using the Return and Earn app. Locals can also donate their refund to one of over 600 donation partners listed on the Return and Earn app, including Feel the Magic, which offers a range of support programs designed to help children cope with the loss of a loved one. Alternatively, recyclers can donate to the current statewide donation partner, The Smith Family, who help provide young people experiencing disadvantage with an equal chance to learn, and create better futures through the power of education. Parramatta Return and Earn Depot is located at 25 Argyle Street, Parramatta. Entry via car to the depot is via O’Connell Street. The depot is open daily between 7.00 am to 6.00 pm. For more information on Return and Earn visit: www.returnandearn.org.au. NSW Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis said: “City of Parramatta residents are enthusiastic recyclers, having returned over 172 million eligible bottles, cans and cartons through local return points since the scheme began in 2017. “More than 16 billion containers have been returned for recycling through the network of over 660 return points across NSW since Return and Earn began, resulting in over $1.6 billion in container refunds back in people’s pockets.” James Dorney, CEO, network operator TOMRA Cleanaway said: “It is conveniently located in Parramatta’s central business district and offers different ways for the community to return their eligible drink containers, from self-serve Return and Earn machines to staff-assisted recycling.” Danielle Smalley, CEO, scheme coordinator Exchange for Change said over $100M has been raised from donations and fees from hosting return points since the scheme launched.
FOOTBALL fans across Parramatta NSW will be able to travel safely and celebrate the Socceroos’ crucial FIFA World Cup clash against Egypt this Saturday morning with 24-hour public transport services and extended trading hours announced by the Minns Labor Government. The measures are designed to support thousands of supporters expected to gather at official live sites at Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour and Cathy Freeman Park at Sydney Olympic Park for the 4am kick-off, while also boosting hospitality venues across the state. Public transport services will begin several hours earlier than normal, with Sydney Metro operating every 20 minutes between 1.30am and 5am before returning to its regular timetable. Early city-bound Sydney Trains services will depart from Leppington, Penrith, Hornsby and Macarthur from around 2am, while trains between Lidcombe and Olympic Park will commence at 3am. Light rail services on the L1, L2 and L3 lines will also begin operating from 2.30am. Pubs, clubs and bars screening the match will be permitted to open from 3am statewide. Venues already licensed to trade until 1am or 2am will be able to remain open continuously without needing to close before reopening for the match. The initiative follows the successful introduction of 24-hour transport and extended trading during this year’s Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, which generated an additional 60,000 public transport trips and a 46 per cent increase in night-time spending. Transport Minister John Graham said the initiative would create a safer, more vibrant experience for football supporters while supporting local businesses. “I can’t wait to see the trains and the footy fans come alive so early. Moments like this take us a step closer to being a truly 24-hour economy,” Mr Graham said. Sport Minister Steve Kamper said the Socceroos’ World Cup campaign had captured the imagination of fans across NSW. “These are the moments that remind us why sport matters. It brings communities together, fills our venues with energy and gives local businesses a welcome boost,” he said. Football Australia CEO Martin Kugeler welcomed the support, saying the transport and trading measures would create a festival atmosphere for supporters gathering to cheer on the Socceroos. Business Sydney Executive Director Paul Nicolaou said reliable public transport was essential to ensuring fans could safely attend live sites while supporting local businesses and the visitor economy. Night Time Industries Association CEO Mick Gibb said the initiative gave venues confidence to welcome an influx of green and gold supporters while building on the success of the 24-hour transport trial during Mardi Gras.
PARRAMATTA is a step closer to bringing its vision for a vibrant, 24-hour CBD to life after securing a $195,000 Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP) Kickstart Grant to develop and deliver a trial SEP in the heart of the City. The grant supports NSW councils to establish SEPs, including planning processes, acoustic guidelines and community engagement for sustainable night-time precincts. The trial will enable extended trading hours, support live music and performance, later opening shops, food and drink premises, businesses, creative spaces and community facilities, and offer a range of incentives including reduced liquor licence fees and access to extra hours for music venues. Building on Parramatta’s Late Night Trading Development Control Plan and the City’s long-term Parramatta 2050 vision, the trial precinct will support extended trading, live entertainment, and a more diverse night-time economy and activated city centre. City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said the funding supports Parramatta’s continued transformation into a leading destination for culture, entertainment and nightlife in Western Sydney. “This is a big win for Parramatta and a major step towards becoming a truly vibrant, 24-hour CBD for everyone to enjoy,” Cr Zaiter said. “We’re already on the map for food, culture and entertainment, and this funding will help unlock even more opportunities for live music, entertainment and local businesses after dark. “We’re focused on creating a City that people can enjoy day and night, supporting jobs, culture and a safe, exciting night-time economy.” The SEP trial will focus on Parramatta CBD, bringing together businesses, artists and the community while supporting a well-managed night-time environment. The initiative is supported by the NSW Government’s Special Entertainment Precinct Kickstart Grant Program Round 2, delivered by the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner. For more information, visit Participate Parramatta.
A NEW online support service has been launched by the Department of Home Affairs to make it quick and easy for individuals in Australia to resolve their immigration status, particularly for those with visas approaching expiry. Individuals can now book a confidential appointment online with a Status Resolution Officer at a convenient time via a new digital tool. This makes it straightforward for those wanting to resolve their immigration status to apply for a substantive visa or arrange to depart Australia. The Status Resolution Service offers a voluntary opportunity to engage early and resolve immigration status before compliance action is taken. Under the Migration Act 1958, a person who does not hold a valid visa is an unlawful non-citizen and may be detained and removed by Australian Border Force at any time. In addition to the online appointment tool, the department is also hosting a community event at the Parramatta PHIVE (5 Parramatta Sq, Parramatta) on 25 and 26 June (9:30am – 4pm), providing free visa advice. This face-to-face service aims to assist individuals in resolving their immigration status, including those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. A spokesperson from the Department of Home Affairs said outreach events provide an opportunity for those who need assistance to come forward and voluntarily resolve their immigration status. “The Status Resolution Service provides a voluntary pathway for individuals to resolve their immigration status before Australian Border Force compliance and enforcement action, which can occur at any time. “Living in Australia without a valid visa can be stressful and create uncertainty. Resolving your immigration status can bring stability, security and peace of mind. The new online booking tool makes it simple for individuals to take that step in the right direction,” the spokesperson said. The department’s Status Resolution Service operates across Australia, and over the past 12 months the team has met with more than 2,000 community leaders, delivered 70 outreach events and spoken directly with more than 650 non-citizens. The new service is separate from the Australian Border Force, and all meetings are voluntary. Appointments can be requested at: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/status-resolution-service/meet-with-us
WRC legend Glenn MacNeall opens Sydney’s first rally-inspired PowerPlay indoor electric go-kart track. WITH over 25 years of professional rallying, WRC co-driver Glenn MacNeall knows about making cars go fast around tight bends and finding that extra half-second saving to make all the difference. Since retiring from the high-stakes world of international rally, Glenn has been on a mission with his business, PowerPlay, to give Australians from all walks of life a taste of what over two decades of competition felt like. PowerPlay’s first Sydney venue opened in Northmead recently, selling out both its grand opening. With eight tracks across Perth, Melbourne and now Sydney, PowerPlay is the home of next-level go-karting with technical, rally-inspired indoor tracks designed to challenge drivers. Each PowerPlay track boasts a bespoke configuration by Glenn (Sydney’s layout is inspired by the Rally of Finland) and a fleet of cutting-edge, performance-tuned electrified karts designed by Glenn and his technical team to give a true racing experience while ensuring the highest levels of safety. “PowerPlay brings together over 25 fantastic years of professional motorsport for me and has grown rapidly since we opened our first track in Perth back in 2020,” Glenn said. “What we set out to achieve is a driving experience like no-other that can be enjoyed by drivers of all levels. PowerPlay is not just about competition with your mates, it’s also about pushing yourself to improve your own personal lap time – something at the very heart of professional rallying,” he continues. Glenn sees PowerPlay as a way of sharing his lifelong passion for motorsport while passing on some of the lessons learned throughout his illustrious career. “I come from a world where you learn by doing. In many ways, PowerPlay is about educating our guests to be better drivers through their experience with us,” he said. “We also want to break some of the stereotypes a lot of people have around motorsport by giving them an authentic experience that challenges their thinking, while hopefully sparking curiosity in them to further explore professional motorsport.” PowerPlay already has a legion of fans – including two-time Dakar Rally champion Toby Price, who recently became a PowerPlay ambassador – with the Sydney opening sure to awaken more dreams of podium glory for all sorts of drivers. PowerPlay Sydney is open seven days and located at Unit 3, 1B Redbank Rd in Northmead.
PARRAMATTA is now home to a new Return and Earn depot designed to make recycling eligible bottles, cans and cartons easier than ever before. Parramatta Return and Earn Depot – the 15th return point in the Parramatta council area – was opened last week attended by local community groups and charities, including Ronald McDonald House Charity, Feel the Magic and The Smith Family. The staffed depot features the latest ‘tip and go’ technology, which can process up to 100 containers a minute, without the need to pre-sort containers. The depot also has standard Return and Earn machines ideal for recyclers with smaller amounts of drink containers to get their container refunds. Recyclers can print a voucher for the refund amount, which can be redeemed at Woolworths for a discount on their shopping or for cash, or opt for an e-voucher or payment directly into their bank or PayPal account using the Return and Earn app. Locals can also donate their refund to one of over 600 donation partners listed on the Return and Earn app, including Feel the Magic, which offers a range of support programs designed to help children cope with the loss of a loved one. Alternatively, recyclers can donate to the current statewide donation partner, The Smith Family, who help provide young people experiencing disadvantage with an equal chance to learn, and create better futures through the power of education. Parramatta Return and Earn Depot is located at 25 Argyle Street, Parramatta. Entry via car to the depot is via O’Connell Street. The depot is open daily between 7.00 am to 6.00 pm. For more information on Return and Earn visit: www.returnandearn.org.au. NSW Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis said: “City of Parramatta residents are enthusiastic recyclers, having returned over 172 million eligible bottles, cans and cartons through local return points since the scheme began in 2017. “More than 16 billion containers have been returned for recycling through the network of over 660 return points across NSW since Return and Earn began, resulting in over $1.6 billion in container refunds back in people’s pockets.” James Dorney, CEO, network operator TOMRA Cleanaway said: “It is conveniently located in Parramatta’s central business district and offers different ways for the community to return their eligible drink containers, from self-serve Return and Earn machines to staff-assisted recycling.” Danielle Smalley, CEO, scheme coordinator Exchange for Change said over $100M has been raised from donations and fees from hosting return points since the scheme launched.
FOOTBALL fans across Parramatta NSW will be able to travel safely and celebrate the Socceroos’ crucial FIFA World Cup clash against Egypt this Saturday morning with 24-hour public transport services and extended trading hours announced by the Minns Labor Government. The measures are designed to support thousands of supporters expected to gather at official live sites at Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour and Cathy Freeman Park at Sydney Olympic Park for the 4am kick-off, while also boosting hospitality venues across the state. Public transport services will begin several hours earlier than normal, with Sydney Metro operating every 20 minutes between 1.30am and 5am before returning to its regular timetable. Early city-bound Sydney Trains services will depart from Leppington, Penrith, Hornsby and Macarthur from around 2am, while trains between Lidcombe and Olympic Park will commence at 3am. Light rail services on the L1, L2 and L3 lines will also begin operating from 2.30am. Pubs, clubs and bars screening the match will be permitted to open from 3am statewide. Venues already licensed to trade until 1am or 2am will be able to remain open continuously without needing to close before reopening for the match. The initiative follows the successful introduction of 24-hour transport and extended trading during this year’s Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, which generated an additional 60,000 public transport trips and a 46 per cent increase in night-time spending. Transport Minister John Graham said the initiative would create a safer, more vibrant experience for football supporters while supporting local businesses. “I can’t wait to see the trains and the footy fans come alive so early. Moments like this take us a step closer to being a truly 24-hour economy,” Mr Graham said. Sport Minister Steve Kamper said the Socceroos’ World Cup campaign had captured the imagination of fans across NSW. “These are the moments that remind us why sport matters. It brings communities together, fills our venues with energy and gives local businesses a welcome boost,” he said. Football Australia CEO Martin Kugeler welcomed the support, saying the transport and trading measures would create a festival atmosphere for supporters gathering to cheer on the Socceroos. Business Sydney Executive Director Paul Nicolaou said reliable public transport was essential to ensuring fans could safely attend live sites while supporting local businesses and the visitor economy. Night Time Industries Association CEO Mick Gibb said the initiative gave venues confidence to welcome an influx of green and gold supporters while building on the success of the 24-hour transport trial during Mardi Gras.
PARRAMATTA is a step closer to bringing its vision for a vibrant, 24-hour CBD to life after securing a $195,000 Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP) Kickstart Grant to develop and deliver a trial SEP in the heart of the City. The grant supports NSW councils to establish SEPs, including planning processes, acoustic guidelines and community engagement for sustainable night-time precincts. The trial will enable extended trading hours, support live music and performance, later opening shops, food and drink premises, businesses, creative spaces and community facilities, and offer a range of incentives including reduced liquor licence fees and access to extra hours for music venues. Building on Parramatta’s Late Night Trading Development Control Plan and the City’s long-term Parramatta 2050 vision, the trial precinct will support extended trading, live entertainment, and a more diverse night-time economy and activated city centre. City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said the funding supports Parramatta’s continued transformation into a leading destination for culture, entertainment and nightlife in Western Sydney. “This is a big win for Parramatta and a major step towards becoming a truly vibrant, 24-hour CBD for everyone to enjoy,” Cr Zaiter said. “We’re already on the map for food, culture and entertainment, and this funding will help unlock even more opportunities for live music, entertainment and local businesses after dark. “We’re focused on creating a City that people can enjoy day and night, supporting jobs, culture and a safe, exciting night-time economy.” The SEP trial will focus on Parramatta CBD, bringing together businesses, artists and the community while supporting a well-managed night-time environment. The initiative is supported by the NSW Government’s Special Entertainment Precinct Kickstart Grant Program Round 2, delivered by the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner. For more information, visit Participate Parramatta.
A NEW online support service has been launched by the Department of Home Affairs to make it quick and easy for individuals in Australia to resolve their immigration status, particularly for those with visas approaching expiry. Individuals can now book a confidential appointment online with a Status Resolution Officer at a convenient time via a new digital tool. This makes it straightforward for those wanting to resolve their immigration status to apply for a substantive visa or arrange to depart Australia. The Status Resolution Service offers a voluntary opportunity to engage early and resolve immigration status before compliance action is taken. Under the Migration Act 1958, a person who does not hold a valid visa is an unlawful non-citizen and may be detained and removed by Australian Border Force at any time. In addition to the online appointment tool, the department is also hosting a community event at the Parramatta PHIVE (5 Parramatta Sq, Parramatta) on 25 and 26 June (9:30am – 4pm), providing free visa advice. This face-to-face service aims to assist individuals in resolving their immigration status, including those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. A spokesperson from the Department of Home Affairs said outreach events provide an opportunity for those who need assistance to come forward and voluntarily resolve their immigration status. “The Status Resolution Service provides a voluntary pathway for individuals to resolve their immigration status before Australian Border Force compliance and enforcement action, which can occur at any time. “Living in Australia without a valid visa can be stressful and create uncertainty. Resolving your immigration status can bring stability, security and peace of mind. The new online booking tool makes it simple for individuals to take that step in the right direction,” the spokesperson said. The department’s Status Resolution Service operates across Australia, and over the past 12 months the team has met with more than 2,000 community leaders, delivered 70 outreach events and spoken directly with more than 650 non-citizens. The new service is separate from the Australian Border Force, and all meetings are voluntary. Appointments can be requested at: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/status-resolution-service/meet-with-us
DONN DAVIS CAREERS today don’t look like they used to. There isn’t a single “right” pathway anymore nor is there one moment at 16 or 18 that determines everything. That’s why it’s more important than ever before that students, parents and teachers understand the options, know where the opportunities are and build the skills that will open doors. The Careers of Today event hosted by CathWest Innovation College in conjunction with WEXPO does exactly that. The possibilities are endless for young students however there is a clear disconnect between the training and career pathways available and how to access that information. Careers of Today is endeavouring to bridge this gap and the feedback from parents and students in attendance is that they are succeeding. While there are great training opportunities for students, often it is difficult to navigate the most appropriate pathway for the individual student. Students seeking an apprenticeship journey can access it in different ways – including through school-based apprenticeships and traineeships, School to TAFE NSW pathways and vocational education while still at school. Apprenticeships and traineeships are also fee-free in NSW – part of the Minns Labor Government’s investment in practical pathways that allow people to earn while they learn and build skills our economy needs. Fee-free training is delivering real job opportunities, with more than 306,000 NSW Fee-Free enrolments since 2023 and major new investments to keep skills training accessible. In our efforts to provide impactful career guidance, it is critical that we direct young people to careers connected to the industries where there are strong job opportunities. CathWest is proactively strengthening industry connections through its participation in the Department of Education’s Regional Industry Education Partnerships program. This ensures they are delivering strong vocational education pathways that equip students with practical, job-ready skills and clear transitions into employment or further training. It was a pleasure to be a part of Careers of Today 2026 where young people could hear directly from employers and educators about their lived experience, industry need and opportunities to pursue careers many students and their parents may never have even known exist. From AI and Technology, Construction, Early Childhood Education to the Health and Care Sector – the possibilities are endless. As the Member for Parramatta, I encourage our youth to seek out the vocational training pathways and career opportunities that marry up with jobs growth to make sure that students in our community have every chance to enter the careers we need to build a better NSW. DONNA DAVIS is NSW Member for Parramatta and the moderator for the May Careers of Today event in Parramatta.
THE 2026 Careers of Today (COT) parent education forum attracted more than 100 parents and students at special session at Parramatta Novotel in May. The Careers of Today concept was developed in response to growing uncertainty parents and students face when navigating rapidly changing career pathways. Research indicates that only 28% of parents feel confident guiding their children toward future employment opportunities, particularly in industries being transformed by technology, skills shortages, and emerging workforce demands. Hosted by CathWest Innovation College and WEXPO, the forum brought together industry leaders, educators, employers and families from across Parramatta and Western Sydney to better understand the careers of today and tomorrow. This year’s panelists included: – AI & Technology: Kate Dodds. – Australian Catholic University, Dr Valentine Mukuria. – Construction: Darren Ingram, Clarendon Homes. – Business Western Sydney (Tourism) David Borger. – Early Childhood Education and Care, Jo Tapley. – Health, Sophie Najjarin, ANATE. NSW Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis was the session moderator. With Western Sydney now recognised as Australia’s third largest economy, the event highlighted real opportunities available to young people in growth industries including healthcare, construction, tourism, early childhood education, AI and technology. The forum provided valuable access to expert advice, meaningful conversations and direct engagement with employers and educational institutions, empowering both students and parents to make informed decisions about future pathways and employment opportunities. A standout message from the night was the importance of building resilience. The panel of experts encouraged parents to support their children in sticking with their apprenticeships or school-based traineeships, as well as getting a part-time job. While the journey may be challenging, gaining hands-on experience and learning new skills equips young people with invaluable attributes and qualifications that open doors to a wide range of opportunities. The Q&A and networking session gave families the chance to have real conversations with industry professionals, employers, and education providers, helping to turn big questions about the future into clearer pathways forward. “Events like this remind us how important it is to bring communities together to support young people in making informed, confident decisions. Thank you again to everyone who attended and contributed to such a meaningful event,” said MP Donna Davis.CathWest Innovation College principal, Paul Stenning said it was “fantastic to see such strong community engagement and curiosity about career opportunities.” “Thank you to the parents and students who joined us to explore future career pathways and connect with industry experts,” he said. Stay tuned to www.wexpo.com.au for details of the next COT event. The full video of the May session can be viewed at www.wexpo.com.au – go to WEXPO TV
ENDEAVOUR Energy (EE) is recruiting Parramatta’s next generation of workers to support its expanding network and help power Western Sydney’s Aerotropolis and new international airport. The recruitment drive comes as Western Sydney undergoes one of the largest infrastructure transformations in the country, with the 11,000 hectare Aerotropolis and Western Sydney International Airport expected to attract 1.5 million people and support up to 120,000 jobs over the coming decades. As one of the largest employers in Western Sydney, Endeavour Energy said the shift marks a major change in an industry traditionally dominated by men, with more women stepping into frontline STEM and trade careers that will help build and maintain the region’s future energy network. Endeavour Energy’s Chief People, Data and Sustainability Officer Melissa Irwin said the company is seeing strong interest from women pursuing careers that were once considered off limits. “The idea that trades and energy jobs are only for men is changing rapidly,” Ms Irwin said. “These apprentices will help power one of the fastest growing regions in Australia, supporting new homes, businesses, transport infrastructure and major projects including the Western Sydney Aerotropolis and airport precinct. “Roles are also available across regional communities, helping support local areas and ensure they have the reliable energy they need to grow and thrive. “We are building the workforce that will help keep the lights on for the next generation right across our region,” said Ms Irwin. The apprenticeship program offers paid training and nationally recognised qualifications across powerline, underground electrical and electrotechnology trades, with positions available across Greater Western Sydney and regional NSW including Parramatta, Penrith, and Kings Park. Applications are now open for Endeavour Energy’s 2027 apprenticeship intake. Successful applicants will join the frontline workforce responsible for maintaining and expanding the electricity network that supplies power to more than 2.8 million people across Greater Western Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Illawarra, South Coast and Central West NSW. There are 30 positions available, with successful applicants joining more than 75 apprentices already building their careers at Endeavour Energy. Applications close July 3, 2026 with apprentices starting in 2027. EE says women and gender diverse recruits made up 50 per cent of apprentice intakes over the past five years. For more information visit: endeavourenergy.com.au/apprenticeships
PARRAMATTA’S thriving multi-billion-dollar economy is set to reach new heights with the launch of a new City Economy Strategy centred on building a prosperous, resilient, and globally-focused city. The new economic plan, to be unveiled to government and business leaders at today’s Lord Mayor Business Forum, lays out the vision of how City of Parramatta plans to reach its ambitious targets, including an additional 150,000 jobs in the City by 2050. City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said Parramatta’s thriving economy is already paving the way to reaching Council’s vision to be Australia’s next global City. “Parramatta is Western Sydney’s jobs engine, and the economic success of our city will be critical for improving state and national productivity.” Cr Zaiter said. “We want to attract high-quality local jobs across a range of sectors to create a more liveable city and ensure our community can contribute to and benefit from growth, improving quality of life for all. “Our ambitious targets to transform our City into an economic global powerhouse need a clear plan and our new City Economy Strategy will help unlock the full potential of our growing City.” The Lord Mayor Business Forum returns to Parramatta Town Hall today off the back of the success of last year’s inaugural event, bringing business and government leaders together to deep dive into the new economic plan and discuss the next phase of Parramatta’s growth. Master of Ceremonies, ABC presenter and journalist Lydia Feng, will be joined by speakers including NSW 24-Hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues, Sydney Olympic Park Authority CEO Neisha D’Souza and Western Sydney University Launch Pad Executive Director Don Wright covering transport, infrastructure, education, media and culture and how this will shape Parramatta towards 2050. “With a Gross Regional Product of $30.97M, Parramatta is a city second to none, and the Lord Mayor’s Business Forum highlights our role as a meeting place for ideas, leadership and economic ambition,” Cr Zaiter said. “Parramatta’s economy is going from strength to strength, and with a clear vision and roadmap for economic growth, now is the time to collaborate, innovate and invest in the future of our city.”
EMMA Heming Willis (pictured) has shared the emotional toll of Bruce Willis’s diagnosis with Frontotemporal dementia, telling the International Dementia Conference 2026 that her family received little guidance after the diagnosis, leav...
AUSTRALIA Post is inviting eligible not-for-profit organisations across New South Wales to apply for Community Grants of up to $10,000 to support locally led projects that strengthen social connection and improve mental health and wellbe...
THE Australian Medical Association is calling for urgent reforms and increased funding to improve healthcare for Australians living in residential aged care. The AMA says funding shortfalls, regulatory barriers and poor digital integrati...
INDIGENOUS Business Australia (IBA) has strengthened First Nations and female representation on its board with the appointments of Bronwyn Dodd, Jessica Bulger and Krista Dunstan. The appointments bring the board to nine directors, inclu...
RESEARCH from Adelaide University has found that rising jet fuel prices do not automatically lead to higher airfares. Published in Research in Transportation Economics, the study shows airfare changes depend on the type of fuel price sho...
FAMILY First National Director Lyle Shelton has called on the Australian Defence Force to assess personnel according to biological sex rather than affirmed gender. Responding to reports that transgender and non-binary recruits are assess...
THE Pharmacy Guild of Australia says community pharmacies can play a vital role in improving men’s health by providing accessible, early intervention and ongoing care. Australians visit pharmacies every three weeks on average, creating...
RESEARCH by AMPC and CQUniversity has highlighted the wider social value red meat processors deliver to regional communities through jobs, training, school partnerships and career pathways. The study found these contributions are often u...
NRL fans will be able to enjoy footy fever together for longer after this weekend’s grand final with pubs, clubs and bars to stay open later, thanks to the NSW Government’s special event extended trading. Fans of the Penrith Panthers...
AS millions of Australians deal with cost of living pressures a new app, EatClub, has been launched designed to offer affordable access to favorite restaurants. EatClub has so far saved almost $3M for diners who dine at times requested b...
THE proposed North Rocks Village development at the former 12.67 hectare site of the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children continues to face community opposition despite revisions to its Master Plan. The quiet, leafy suburb was ide...
THREE local Parramatta libraries have become the first in Australia to adopt new forms of artificial intelligence (AI), hosting AI Tutor Robots to teach kids. The ABii Smart Tutor Robot is designed to help children aged 3-11 with STEM, r...
A NEW commercial workplace is designed to uplift Parramatta’s heritage and being billed as an iconic urban landmark. The $125M boutique development which opened in May, is in Parramatta’s vibrant civic heart and directly overlooks Ce...
IF your eyes often feel dry, gritty or sore, especially after time on screens, driving, or sitting in air-conditioning – you’re not alone. Many people quietly put up with it, thinking it’s just tiredness, allergies or part of getti...
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