14 November 2024
GOVT ENDS TICKETLESS PARKING FINE SYSTEM
THE NSW Minns Labor Government’s reforms to the ticketless parking fine system to require on-the-spot notifications have passed the NSW Parliament.
The changes end the ticketless system introduced by the previous Liberal-National Government in 2020. Under the ticketless system, instead of having the infringement notice left on the vehicle, the fine was sent by post, sometimes not being received until weeks after the incident.
Soon after the introduction of the previous government’s ticketless system, the NRMA and other stakeholders raised issues with the scheme, identifying that it removed transparency and making it more difficult for motorists to contest their fine.
In 2023/24, local councils issued 822,310 ticketless parking fines, a 49% increase over the 551,441 issued in 2022/23.
The Fines Amendment (Parking Fines) Bill 2024 restores fairness and transparency to the parking fine system by:
• Requiring councils to attach an on-the-spot notification to the vehicle.
• Requiring councils to take photos of offences and make them available for Revenue NSW to provide to drivers.
• Providing limited exceptions where an on-the-spot notification is not required, for example where it may be unsafe or hazardous for a ranger to do so.
• Invalidating ‘repeat’ ticketless parking fines, where drivers can be fined multiple times for the same offence before they even become aware of the first infringement.
• Introducing data reporting rules to evaluate if further reforms are necessary.
A working group, which has representatives from stakeholders including Local Government NSW, has been established by Revenue NSW to inform the drafting of regulations and assist with implementation.
Even before the bill passed, several councils began proactively providing on-the-spot notifications to drivers.
14 November 2024
LOCAL APPRENTICES RECOGNISED FOR RISILIENCE
APPRENTICES from across NSW have been recognised for their dedication and resilience, receiving the Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarship, which offers life-changing support to those facing hardship.
This $15,000 scholarship, spread over three years, was awarded to 150 apprentices who have shown exceptional skill and commitment to vocational education and training, despite overcoming significant challenges.
The 2024 cohort of scholarship recipients includes 44 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander apprentices, 83 learners with disabilities, 57 women excelling in non-traditional trades, and 74 mature-aged apprentices.
Importantly, 113 of the recipients come from regional NSW, highlighting the program's broad reach and inclusivity.
Local apprentices Maisen Ray King and Phillip Ellis from Campbelltown were awarded the scholarship for their exceptional commitment to the trades of Electrotechnology Electrician and Plumbing. This scholarship will provide crucial financial support to help them succeed in their training.
The Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarships are open to all registered apprentices across NSW, including school-based apprentices, whether in metropolitan or regional areas.
Since its inception in 2014, this program has continued to be a beacon of opportunity, enabling apprentices to overcome financial barriers and achieve their goals.
Named in honour of the late Bert Evans AO, a lifelong advocate for vocational education, the scholarship continues his legacy of supporting apprentices and promoting vocational pathways as a foundation for success.
14 November 2024
COMMUNITY WAR MEMORIALS FUND OPENS
ORGANISATIONS in Campbelltown are encouraged to apply for NSW Government grant funding for Round 2 of the 2024/25 Community War Memorials Fund that opened today.
Minister for Veterans David Harris said it was appropriate this funding round for restoration of our local war memorials opened on Remembrance Day.
“A day we remember the men and women who have given their lives in service to our country,” Mr Harris said.
“Local war memorials are a vital part of our culture enabling us to reflect on over 100 years of service and sacrifice.
“Our communities are proud of their military history, and I encourage our community groups to apply for funding from the Community War Memorials Fund, to help protect our memorials, and ensure the service and sacrifice of our veterans is not forgotten.
A total of $125,000 is available for councils, RSL sub-Branches and community groups to apply for to assist with funding conservation projects for their local war memorials.
Member for Campbelltown Greg Warren encouraged local groups to apply.
Applications are open until 11pm, 12 February 2025. For information on how to apply visit https://www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/heritage/community-war-memorials-fund/