26 April 2025
HEMP PUSHED AS MAINSTREAM CROP
THE NSW Government has released a draft Hemp Industry Development Plan for public comment, aiming to establish hemp as a mainstream, sustainable crop. The plan sets out a vision supported by four strategic objectives to guide industry growth and collaboration. Developed by the NSW Hemp Industry Taskforce, it identifies key opportunities to strengthen the sector. Public feedback is open until 19 May 2025 via the Have Your Say website.
26 April 2025
NEW HOMES BUILD AT LOWEST LEVELS
IN 2024, just 168,050 new homes began construction in Australia, the lowest level in over a decade, according to HIA Chief Economist Tim Reardon. He warned that the loss of skilled workers to other sectors threatens future building capacity. Australia must build over 250,000 homes annually to meet housing targets. Reardon urged immediate government action to reduce taxes and fees, alongside long-term reforms in land supply, infrastructure, planning, and taxation.
26 April 2025
AMBULANCE RAMPING HAS DOUBLED
AMBULANCE ramping in Australia has doubled in five years, with hospitals overwhelmed and patients suffering tragic delays, according to the AMA's latest report. AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen warned that under-resourcing, a lack of beds, and exit block are major issues, urging urgent action and a new National Health Reform Agreement. She called for more transparency in data reporting, highlighting the growing human and financial costs of the crisis.