16 March 2025
PRISON STAFF AND INMATE RETAIONSHIPS
THE NSW Government has strengthened laws to criminalize all sexual relationships between prison staff and inmates, removing the need to prove risk to prison safety. The Crimes (Administration of Sentences) Act 1999 now imposes criminal liability, including prison sentences. This follows an inquiry into misconduct at Dillwynia Correctional Centre, with all 31 recommendations accepted to improve transparency, safety, and trust in NSW corrective services.
16 March 2025
WOOLIES EXPANDS QUIET HOUR TIMES
WOOLWORTHS has expanded its Quiet Hour to five days a week, offering a low-sensory shopping experience for customers with sensory sensitivities. Running Monday to Friday, 10:30-11:30am, most stores will reduce lighting, lower noise, and minimize disruptions. Launched in 2019 with Life Without Barriers, Quiet Hour now operates in 900+ stores nationwide, enhancing accessibility and independence for customers. The expansion follows successful trials during peak shopping periods like Christmas.
16 March 2025
GOVT FAST TRACKS HOUSING APPROVALS
THE NSW Government is fast-tracking housing approvals by cutting red tape and ensuring faster water and wastewater infrastructure connections. The Housing Approval Reform Action Plan—a collaboration between DCCEEW, Sydney Water, and WaterNSW—aims to streamline approvals, expand risk-based triaging, and enhance industry engagement. With a $2.2B investment in infrastructure, the plan supports faster construction while maintaining environmental sustainability, reinforcing the government’s commitment to addressing the housing crisis.