Learning to swim is a vital life skill, so it was a big thrill to see funding announced last week to help children in Narromine and surrounding towns get access to a dedicated facility to encourage safe swimming. A new purpose-built learn-to-swim pool will be built at Narromine Aquatic Centre, thanks to $300,000 in NSW Government funding. My good friend and colleague Paul Toole made the announcement on a trip to the region last Friday, with the funding coming as part of the ClubGrants program that is overseen as part of his ministry. We all know how precious our children are, and this is a great investment that will enhance water safety access for future generations in the Narromine community and outlying communities.
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It will complement other projects that the NSW Government has proudly co-invested alongside Narromine Shire Council at the pool precinct.” More than $50 million in funding is being provided during this current term of government for projects across sport and recreation, emergency preparedness, and arts and culture through the ClubGrants program.
Burrendong Arboretum
While he was in the region, Minister Toole also popped by Burrendong Arboretum to announce a $200,000 grant for that facility. The funding will allow the recreation space to be redeveloped to include new fencing, road works and walking tracks, which will have lasting benefits for the local community.
I’ve fought to see this upgrade delivered and secured almost $200,000 in Government funding, which is a far more significant investment than the $30,000 pledged by Labor should they form government at the next election. The Burrendong Arboretum is one of the real hidden gems of our region, and this money will help the Trust with the upkeep and maintenance of this wonderful facility.
New renting reforms
Tenants trapped in violent relationships will be protected by new renting reforms, which come into effect on February 28, 2019. Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean announced last week that from this date victims of domestic violence will immediately be able to end their tenancy without financial penalty. Currently, tenants need to provide 14 days’ notice to break a fixed term lease if a co-tenant or occupant is prohibited from accessing the property by a final Apprehended Violence Order. While victims are not liable to compensate the landlord for the early termination under the current laws, they may still be liable for other costs.
Agents and landlords will be prohibited from listing victims on a tenancy database if they terminated a lease due to domestic violence. These reforms empower victims when they’re often feeling helpless, and it gives them a sense of dignity during such a difficult time. Further information about the amendments is available at www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au.
Tourism survey
It was terrific to see data released last week that shows NSW, and in particular our regional areas, as the national leaders when it comes to tourism. The latest independent survey results for the year ending September 2018 showed NSW to be the most popular destination for both international and domestic visitors. Locally, central NSW welcomed 2.8 million domestic tourists and 40,900 international travellers which is wonderful news for our local industry.
The number of domestic visitors to Central NSW grew by 13 per cent compared to the previous year, and they spent $1.1 billion during their stay, a growth of 16 per cent. This means more heads on hotel beds, people in our restaurants, cafes, pubs and shops, spending money and driving our local visitor economy.xThe National and International Visitor Surveys are released by Tourism Research Australia. For more on the survey results for year ending September 2018, visit www.tra.gov.au
