State Government Cracks Down On Local Fuel Price Gouging

BY CAMERON TARAGEL

New legislation has been passed by the state government ensuring Hunter motorists aren't being ripped off at the bowser.

The Fair Trading Amendment Bill 2026 will extend NSW Fair Trading's prosecution power by making it illegal for service stations or fuel retailers to incorrectly report prices. 

It also will make it illegal if retailers fail to notify customers if a type of fuel becomes unavailable.

Service stations which fail to uphold the new guidelines could receive on-the-spot penalties up to $3,300 with the fine rising to $11,000 if caught re-offending within 12 months.

The courts have also been given the power to impose stronger penalties of up to $110,000.

Better Regulation and Fair Trading Minister Anoulack Chanthivong said current fuel price gouging is not acceptable. 

"The compliance rate is about 95 per cent, but I say clearly to the remaining five per cent if you're thinking of doing the wrong thing by price gouging, my message is: don't," he said. 

"Motorists should never accept a situation where they're being ripped off or where the price at the bowser is different to the one on FuelCheck." 

NSW Fair Trading has now conducted nearly 5,000 inspections with over 290 fines being issued at a total value of more than $315,000. 

Minister Chanthivong added the new power allows NSW Fair Trading to leave no stone unturned. 

"You'll be caught and you will be fined, and we'll continue to crack down on servos doing the wrong thing," he said. 

Hunter residents can find accurate fuel prices and report price mismatches by visiting FuelCheck. 

Federal Infrastructure Pipeline Review Yields Mixed Results For The Hunter

BY OLIVIA DILLON

The release of the federal government's report on it's infrastructure pipeline review has yielded mixed outcomes for projects in the Hunter. 

In good news for commuters, the M1 Pacific Motorway Extension to Raymond Terrace, The Newcastle Inner City Bypass, and upgrades to Mandalong Road will all go ahead as planned. 

Funding has been reserved for the planning of the Muswellbrook Bypass, however no additional commitment has been made for the construction phase of the project. 

Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell, says he believes the government is delaying the project, and it won't be delivered until after the Singleton Bypass is completed. 

"As we found out in budget estimates just a few weeks ago, NSW Transport will not proceed with the project until they receive a deed from the Federal Government with the construction money," he said. 

Meanwhile, work on the first phase of the government's proposed high speed rail network is set to grind to a halt, after today's report revealed it will no longer be funding upgrades to tracks and platforms at Tuggerah and Wyong. 

The federal and state governments committed a combined $1.5 billion last year to the improvements, as part of plans to cut 35 minutes off the journey from Newcastle to Sydney.

Although the report indicates $500 million has been allocated to "High Speed Rail Priorities", it also reveals the Central Coast upgrade works will no longer be funded by the Commonwealth. 

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon says the city will still have "a very lead role in the development of this exciting new chapter in Australian rail history." 

"We will be shaping what high speed rail looks like in Australia with the priority that's been given for the Newcastle to Sydney leg," she said. 

In addition, Dave Layzell says while he's pleased the government has allocated more funding for the replacement of the Brig O'Johnston Bridge at Clarence Town, it's not enough to fully fund the project. 

$781,000 in additional funding has been handed down by the Commonwealth for the replacement works. 

However, Dave Layzell, says it's only 20% of what's needed to get the job done. 

The release of today's report comes after Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King earlier this week announced changes to the way the government would fund projects, returning to a preference of 50:50 funding with the states and territories for future investments. 

Business Hunter CEO Bob Hawes, says the government should be able to provide more clarity about the projects it is funding, now it's scope has been reduced. 

"A significant reduction in the scope of projects should hopefully see those on the list move through without delay. Ideally, we’ll also receive some clarity from the state government to confirm all these projects are in frame, given this clarity at a federal level," said Mr Hawes.

Female and Hunter MPs Aplenty in New State Cabinet

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Five of the Hunter's seven Labor MP's have been given positions in Chris Minns' new state government. 

Swansea MP, Yasmin Catley is one of the big winners in the new ministry, being elevated to the Police and Counter-terrorism portfolio.

Charlestown MP, Jodi Harrison becomes the new Minister for Women, Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, and Seniors.

Port Stephens MP, Kate Washington moves into the Families and Communities and Disability Inclusion portfolios.

Maitland's Jenny Aitchison is now the Minister for Regional Transport and Roads.

The Hunter locals are among a host of others elevated to new positions in an historic 50% female-led ministry. 

Meanwhile, Member for Newcastle, Tim Crakanthorp becomes Minister for the Hunter and retains his shadow role in Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education.

The Premier has also thrown his support behind Lake Macquarie MP Greg Piper as the new speaker for the Lower House.  

He says, he looks forward to seeing an Independent in the seat. 

"It's very difficult for a speaker who is drawn from the ruling party to give that sense of independence that we expect of someone in that position, but when the person who in in the speaker's role comes as an Independent, it will truly be an independent role," Mr Piper said. 

Mr Piper noted whilst he's proud to be endorsed for the role, he won't let it distract him from getting things done in his electorate. 

Image: Premier's Office

Funding Announced to Repair Hunter Roads

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Major new road funding has been announced for a number of areas in the Hunter. 

The Mayors of Singleton and Muswellbrook met with Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway for the announcement this morning. 

$2.8 million has been allocated to fix the Allyn River Road in the Dungog Shire, and Victoria Street in Muswellbrook will be boosted by more than $700,000. 

Mr Farraway also announced $3 million will go towards repairing Hunter Road at Ellerston, and $1 million will be given to Singleton Council. 

"This is all about making sure we are repairing, not just filling-in potholes," he said. 

"We're doing heavy patching, and councils will have the support to repair those potholes and those roads that locals use every day, whether they be the roads to the shops, footy clubs or to school." 

Two Hunter Locals Join Regional Youth Taskforce

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Two young leaders from the Hunter have been selected as members of this year's Regional Youth Taskforce. 

Comprised of 18 members from across the state, the Taskforce will meet throughout the year to drive for policy change within the state government, and advocate for real outcomes for young people. 

The Hunter representatives are Jorji Taaffe from Merriwa, and Jessica Patman from Warners Bay. 

They're both seeking to tackle youth mental health in the region, and will drive policy change around their own special interests. 

Taaffe said she will be focusing on advocating for rural health. 

"I just believe we're lacking resources compared to our urban counterparts, and that's what I really want to change this year," she said. 

"If we have more resources here, it's going to be easier to get people back into the health system and address the lack of resources." 

Jessica Patman wants to bring mental heath and LGBTQI+ health to the forefront. 

"Research shows 75% of mental health concerns emerge before the age of 25, and currently within society, stigma and lack of  access to appropriate and affordable services is preventing a lot of young people from actually accessing support when they need it," Patman said. 

"I think there's also a lack of understanding around gender and sexuality and that's increasing narratives around stereotypes and is increasing discrimination further." 

"It would be amazing if LGBTQI+ youth could have more safe spaces within the Hunter where they could connect and socialize." 

Jorji Taaffe added how important it is to give back to the Hunter community. 

"I'm really excited to have been given this opportunity, not just for myself but for my community. By encouraging my peers and fellow students, I really hope I can make a change." 

Community concerned former Maitland Hospital site could be up for sale

BY DAKOTA TAIT

There's concern the State Government could be moving to sell off the former Maitland Hospital, without consulting the community on other ideas for the site.

A number of community and mental health services are still housed at the former hospital, but are set to move to the new Metford site once a new facility is planned, built, and complete.

Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison says it's worrying the plans haven't been discussed with the community.

"They've said that after they remove those people from the site, they will be disposing of the building," she said. 

"That's to me a slap in the face for the people of Maitland. This is a building that's really important to the community - we've had people who've been born there, family members who've died there."

"It's part of the fabric of the community, and the community should have had a say, well before now, on what was going to happen."

Earlier in the year, Maitland Council discussed its vision for the site, including potential uses in education, tourism, or for another healthcare provider.

The community's also raised calls for a second hospital or as a museum or cultural centre.

If the State Government sells the property, it's unclear if the campus would be demolished or what else it might look like in private hands.

"There's some really important heritage buildings on that site," Ms Aitchison said. "It's actually a time capture of the different styles of hospital construction throughout the years."

"There are obviously some parts of the building which are no longer fit for purpose at all - there's asbestos on the site I know."

Newcastle set to see $60 million social housing pipeline

BY DAKOTA TAIT

148 new homes will be developed across Newcastle over the next three years, as part of a $60 million social housing pipeline backed by the NSW Land and Housing Corporation.

Eight new units on Stannett Street at Waratah West are set to be completed and ready for tenants to move in by the end of the month.

The twelve projects also include a 20-unit development at Lambton, and there's discussion around another potential project at Wallsend.

It comes after a Memorandum of Understanding between Newcastle Council and the Land and Housing Corporation to fast-track priority social housing and alleviate housing pressure.

Newcastle Council and the State Government have each put in $6 million for the delivery of new housing. 

An artist's impression of a unit development at Waratah West.

State grant to get Swim Bike Run Weekend off the ground for Port Stephens

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The State Government's announced a major funding boost to get the Swim Bike Run Weekend off on a good foot for Port Stephens.

The inaugural event is set for the 9th to 11th of December later this year, and features iron man distance races for all ages and skill levels.  

New South Wales is pitching in $177,521 in hopes to ensure the event's success.

Organiser Mark Emerton says the weekend will help encourage tourism in the region and spur spending at local businesses.

Stockton Beach not much closer to solution after taskforce meeting

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The State Government is standing firm, claiming it can't take responsibility for sand nourishment works at Stockton Beach, despite another taskforce meeting with the Deputy Premier.

The City of Newcastle insists it's not on them either, but New South Wales says it can't apply for a sand mining licence, because it's the mining regulator.

Offshore sand is considered a mineral product, meaning separate exploration and mining licences are required for the project, though an exploration licence and a suitable sources of sand have already been identified and resolved. 

But the Stockton community remains frustrated by the delays, with the beach having been lashed this year, following large storms and heavy swells with the La Niña weather event.

Stockton Community Liaison Group Chair Barbara Whitcher says the community just wants the Government to get a move on.

"I really think that the Deputy Premier could be much more supportive," she said. "He did say that the State has contributed nearly a million dollars towards a solution for Stockton Beach, but Newcastle City Council and the Hunter Water Board have been putting in massive amounts."

"The NSW Government has enormous resources. They've been trying to put the responsibility onto a council.

"I'm assuming this will happen with all councils up and down the coast, where there are other areas that are facing climate change challenges, which we have on top of this other major problem of the breakwall."

Council is set to meet with the Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation, in hopes to resolve the conflict of interest and come up with a solution.

If the nourishment plan gets off the ground, 2.4 million cubic metres of sand will initially be collected and used to restore the shoreline.  

The Deputy Premier's Office says the Government is committed to finding a solution, though it's understood the dispute over responsibility for the mining license stretches back more than two years.

Ms Whitcher says the legislation could need to change, when it comes to mining for the sake of coastal restoration.

"This has been known now for years," she said. "It's an issue that we've been fighting for a long time."

"If it was an easy thing for a council to do, it would've been done. The issue is that Stockton has an urgent situation now, but there are going also to be other coastal areas that could benefit."

Image credit: Save Stockton Beach.

Hunter high school students encouraged to get behind the camera for film competition

BY ALEXANDRA REES

High school students across the Hunter are being urged to enter the 2022 Parli-Flicks short film competition. 

Students must creatively express their views in a one-minute video, answering the question of "what democracy means to them".

Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison says the competition is a fun way for students to learn about politics. 

"It's a great program engaging people with politics," she said.

"I think it also has that broader help where it actually makes people think how do you explain a complex topic to people.

"That's a benefit of it as well."

Finalists will be invited to an awards night at Parliament House, with the overall winner to receive two hundred and fifty dollars.

Last year's competition saw students at Hunter Callaghan College Waratah win Best Regional Film, and at St Joseph's College Lochinvar win Best Senior Secondary.

It's the competition's second year after launching in 2021.

Ms Aitchison says she'd love to see more local students get involved.

"If you've had idea that you might be interested in this, definitely look into it," she said.

 "I think for students it's a great learning opportunity for teachers and parents to be on board from the get go, but for young people it's always good if they can have a crack."

Students have until the first of July to get their entries in, with winners to be announced by August.

If you're interested in finding out, visit the Parli-Flicks website here.

Hunter loses out as Opposition skipped in gambling revenue grant program

BY DAKOTA TAIT

The State Government's facing accusations of grant rorting yet again, with the Hunter mostly missing out in a gambling revenue grant program.

According to an analysis by the Sydney Morning Herald, opposition and crossbench seats received around a quarter of the ClubGRANTS Category Three funding over the last eight years.

Three quarters of the cash, around $75 million, went to Liberal and National electorates.

The program provides NSW registered clubs which profit more than $1 million from poker machines with a dollar for dollar tax rebate, limited at 2.25 percent, if they contribute to the funding pools.

The Category Three grants can go toward large-scale projects relating to sport, health, or community infrastructure.

The electorate of Swansea didn't receive a cent in the program, despite there being an estimated 763 poker machines in the region.

Swansea MP Yasmin Catley says it's no surprise, following similar scandals around the Stronger Communities Fund.

"The real issue with this is, there would be thousands of deserving community projects that have missed out on funding, simply because they live in the wrong area," Ms Catley said.

"We've seen here, pork barrelling at its absolute worst, by the Minister himself awarding three quarters of that grant funding, that is supposed to go to disadvantaged communities, to regional, rural communities, to areas of need, being used as the Government's own piggy bank."

Newcastle, which has around 1482 poker machines, received an estimated $969 for each machine.

Sydney seat Wahroonga, with only 29 machines, received more than half a million dollars, or almost $18,000 per machine.

Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp says it's a case of deja vu.

"The Hunter has absolutely been rorted again," he said.

"We knew the Government's grant process was a sham, now there's independent proof."

 

Government promising big things and big investment in the Hunter

BY DAKOTA TAIT

It's a been a big week when it comes to investment in the Hunter this week, with the Federal and State Governments promising millions of dollars for projects in the region.

On Monday, the Commonwealth agreed to increase their spending on the M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace to $1.6 billion.

It's hoped the 15 kilometre, two-lane extension will bypass congestion pinch-points at Hexham and Heatherbrae.

The Deputy Prime Minister was in the Hunter on Friday for another pair of announcements.

The Federal and State Governments agreed to meet the final $10 million in funding needed for the Newcastle Art Gallery expansion project. 

They'll split the cost equally between them.

It means the Gallery will close for two years from Monday, as work on the almost $40 million project gets underway.

A Telstra box will need to be moved and mines underneath the Gallery grouted before major expansions to floor space and a new cafe can happen. 

Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce told reporters it's a proud moment for Newcastle.

"It allows a lot of those paintings that are sitting back in the dark corners of the dark storage room of Newcastle to brought out so people can see them and enjoy them," Mr Joyce said.

"This is incredible, when you think about it - Rupert Bunny, Dobell, Brett Whitely, John Olsen, at Newcastle Gallery."

"It's a reaffirmation that the city of Newcastle is not an appendage to another place to the south - it's a place that stands on its own two feet, it's a growing place, it's culturally growing."

New South Wales and the Commonwealth also came to a similar arrangement to fund redevelopment works at Maitland Gaol. 

Another $10 million will be split equally between them and invested into an upgraded entry, a new cafe, and boutique accommodation in a pair of residences on the historic site.

Maitland Council are also hoping to open up the guard towers and bring in private investment for a new hotel next door.

Mr Joyce also announced another $8 million from the Federal Government toward street beautification in Scone.

The Deputy Prime Minister announced the spending at Newcastle Art Gallery on Friday morning.

Left to right: Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Taylor Martin, Lyne MP David Gillespie, Liberal Candidate for Paterson Brooke Vitnell, Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce, Deputy NSW Premier Paul Toole, and Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold.

Concerns grow Minister for Cities might be a mixed bag for Newcastle

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Newcastle is set to join Wollongong and the Central Coast as the three regional centres signed up to the State Government's new Minister for Cities portfolio.

Premier Dominic Perrottet is expected to announce an inaugural minister in an upcoming cabinet reshuffle.

The Greater Sydney Commission will also be renamed the Greater Cities Commission as the new cities come under its wing.

But Shadow Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley has echoed concern across the region and in the opposition, the new portfolio might not be the right solution.

"I'm concerned that we're now going to have this Sydney-centric view of the world, instead of making local decisions with local people," Ms Catley said.

Newcastle and Wollongong have long argued they've fallen through the gaps in State planning, considered too regional for metropolitan grants, and too metropolitan for regional ones. 

Labor's now pushing the Government to establish a new commission for Newcastle or the Hunter in its own right.

Image credit: newcastle.nsw.gov.au

Calls to Support Local Council's To Save Struggling Regional Airports

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Concerns have been raised regarding the future of rural and regional airports, including Newcastle Airport, as the industry faces financial instability amidst the COVID-19 crisis.

Labor is calling for the NSW Government to provide more assistance to local councils who own struggling airports to secure their viability now and after the coronavirus has passed.

Newcastle Airport is owned by Newcastle City Council and Port Stephens Council, on land leased from the Department of Defence.

Shadow Minister for Local Government Greg Warren says it is the government's responsibility to step in and lend a helping hand to the councils who may still be reeling from recent drought and the bushfire season.

"We don't want to see these airports fold over," said Mr Warren. "We don't to see these costs incurred onto local councils that will ultimately land onto local communities."

The airline industry has already faced heavy turbulence over the past few months - and with Virgin Australia's collapse into voluntary administration, dozens more regional routes could be up in the air as well.

"Regional airports play a vital role around our regional communities and are huge job providers, that's no better displayed than in the Hunter," said Mr Warren.

"They are seriously struggling at the moment, and this will fall onto the laps of those who are under control of them - in this case, it's councils."

With twenty-six of the state's regional airports owned by local councils, Labor says the State Government must conduct an audit to ensure they meet the needs of regional airports and serviced communities on a case-by-case basis.

"They are a vital connection between the metropolitan and regional areas, all too often rural and regional NSW's get's over looked."

Newcastle Airport says they are remaining optimistic about their future after the pandemic.

                                Image Credit: Port Stephens Coaches

More Nurses Promised in Latest Election Pledge

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

The Hunter New England Health District could receive almost 1000 new staff members under a new commitment from the state government, which the state opposition says it will match.

The Berejiklian government has announced a $2.8 billion dollar funding injection to the health workforce if re-elected, which could see at least 979 new staff members allocated to the local region.

As many as 613 nurses and midwives could be allocated locally along with 113 doctors, 105 allied health staff and 148 hospital support workers.

Port Stephens Liberal candidate Jaimie Abbott said communities across the Hunter will benefit from the workforce boost.

"This is an unprecedented workforce boost by the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government," said Ms Abbott.

"This includes an extra 5,000 nurses and midwives to help ensure that patients get the care they need when they need it."

Shadow Health Minister Walt Secord said in a statement Labor will match that commitment, and will make further announcements in the coming weeks.

Mr Secord also labelled the state government's announcement "scant on detail" and said it leaves some unanswered questions.

Funding Cuts To Hit Local Libraries

BY ARIANA GATTI

Disappointment and worry is rolling into Hunter communities as funding cuts are set to hit local libraries, including those in Cessnock and Kurri Kurri.

The NSW Government has announced they will withdraw financial support to regional Hunter areas, slashing funds by up to 18%.

The cuts are expected to impact over 360 libraries across the State, making residents nervous about the future of the educational centres.

Cessnock City Mayor, Bob Pynsent, says funding cuts will deliver a major blow for every community.

"Our libraries are vibrant hubs and have a very special role in our community. They are not just a service that has great resources, but provide a space where people connect, learn and are entertained."

Bob Pynsent regards the local libraries as learning centres suitable for all ages and says he would be disappointed to see them fold if funds are not sourced elsewhere.

"I certainly hope the funding cuts doesn't have any effect on the young people who are involved in learning so much within our local libraries. There will probably be more money coming out of our local Cessnock budget to compensate for any financial losses," he says.

Image Sourced: http://www.rhcs.com.au/?p=694

Privatisation Of Disability Services Could Affect The Hunter

BY ARIANA GATTI

The NSW State Government has this week, finalised the move to fully privatise disability services previously available across the State and the Hunter.

The full privatisation will restrict the availability of support services for not only those living with a disability but also for their carers.

The State Government has utilised the roll-out of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) as an excuse to shut down all available government-run disability services, with NSW going through with this move alone.

No other state across the country has followed suit in a move to privatise their disability support, fearing the impact it may have on their populations.

Throughout NSW, including the Hunter area, it is approximated that more than 80% of people living with disabilities will not be eligible for NDIS plans anyway.

NSW Labor has recently secured an inquiry into the execution of the NDIS and the provision of support services, with submissions from individuals and support providers now being actively sought after.

Shadow Minister for the Hunter, Kate Washington, says people are suffering and will continue to feel the pressures from the level of support now available.

"Under the heartless Berejiklian-Barilaro Government, there are no safeguards and there is no safety net. The most vulnerable people in our communities are falling through the cracks and there's no-one to catch them".

"We're seeing early intervention services having to close their doors, along with people with complex and profound disabilities are being evicted from their accommodation. This is a situation that is almost in crisis", she says.

Image Sourced: https://www.theherald.com.au/story/4947589/mp-kate-anchors-in-port-stephens/

Future Undecided For Maitland Historical Crown Office

BY: ARIANA GATTI

The old Lands Office building, located on the corner of the New England Highway and Banks Street in East Maitland has fallen under the claim of Property NSW.

New Crown Lands Laws, which will come into effect on the 1st of July, will make it easier for the State Government to transfer all the deeds to the property to their in-house real estate agency, saving both time and money.

Since 2011, Maitland has seen the loss of over a dozen Lands jobs, with the staff operating from the historic Banks Street office becoming a part of that list.

Representatives from a handful of history-focused community groups around the Maitland area are outraged with the possible permanent closure and eradication of the building and is looking for support to keep the property standing for cultural purposes.

Image sourced: 2NURFM Reporter - Ariana Gatti - East Maitland

Many community members are advocating for the building to be turned into a public museum and with the right fit-out and designs, could become a positive learning and historical hub for all.

Shadow Minister for Lands, Mick Veitch, is still in shock and disagreement with the way historical sights are being treated by the NSW representatives.

Image sourced: 2NURFM Reporter - Ariana Gatti - East Maitland

"This is an example of the management of our Crown Lands estate under the current government. They will sell anything, and unfortunately this beautiful building is slated for sale", he says.

With very limited areas offered to the preservation and dedication of the historical remembrance for Maitland's past, the building offers a large enough space which has already come under inspections for adaptability to be open for business opportunity.

Maitland MP, Jenny Aitchison says the precinct is being neglected by the State Government.

"This is just a number of vacant properties of land left sitting unused and neglected that could be utilised to greatly enhance our community", she says.

However, while bringing back the control of the building to those who represent the community, the costs to buy the building is a little on the pricey side.

President of the Maitland Regional Museum, Janece MacDonald, believes affordability is definitely one of the main obstacles standing in the way of making the office a historic exhibition centre.

"An investigator and property appraiser came in to look at the property, and they said the asking price to buy the building would probably sit at $1.7 million", Ms MacDonald says.

Image sourced: 2NURFM Reporter - Ariana Gatti - East Maitland

          

 

State Budget 2018/19: What's in it for the Hunter?

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE AND JARROD MELMETH

NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet has today delivered the state government's $3.9 million surplus budget, with key education spending and infrastructure hits and misses for the Hunter.

In his speech to parliament today, the Treasurer praised our region's coal mining operations for raking in $111 million more royalties than expected.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald said those royalties go on to finance wins for families like new statewide subsidies for 3-year-old children in childcare.

"The Hunter is proving its worth," Mr MacDonald said, "and [the government] is delivering across infrastructure and frontline services."

ROADS AND INFRASTRUCTURE

The major winner for Hunter roads was the New England Highway Scone Bypass, attracting $38 million for continued works.

More planning and design work will be carried out at the notorious Cessnock Road at Testers Hollow, with $17 million secured.

The intersection of the M1 Pacific Motorway at John Renshaw Drive and Weakleys Drive will continue to be upgraded with $16.3 million.

$48.1 million has been doled out for heavy vehicle safety and productivity and flood alleviation works on the Golden Highway at Muswellbrook.

The Rankin Park to Jesmond Inner City Bypass will undergo more planning and pre-construction work for $14.5 million.

Finally, $8.3 million has been committed to commence upgrades at Nelson Bay Road and plan for future improvements.

Despite the investment, Hunter Labor MPs Sonia Hornery and Jodie Harrison are disappointed nothing has been set aside for the Glendale Transport Interchange.

"The budget announcements today have again shown a disproportionate level of spending in Sydney, leaving vital projects in Wallsend languishing for another year," Ms Hornery said, "this budget is not aimed at investing in, or growing, regions like ours."

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald has defended the omission.

"The Glendale Interchange is ongoing," he said, "we gave planning money for that last year...that work is still ongoing because we've got to get it to a point where the state government and Lake Macquarie Council are happy.

"We're not there yet so that means continued planning and design work."

HEALTH

$23.5 million has been allocated towards the continued construction of the $470 million Maitland Hospital at Metford. While the project still remains on the ground, construction has been earmarked to begin in 2018/19. The budget papers detail a 2024 deadline for the hospital to be built.

Scone, Gloucester and Dungog hospitals will share $5 million as part of the Rural Health Infrastructure Program for upgrades and refurbishments to areas such as emergency departments, bathrooms, waiting areas, wards and treatment spaces.

John Hunter Hospital will also receive a share of $15 million in funding for planning of future expansion. This amount will be shared with Albury, Nepean and Sydney Children's Hospital at Westmead.

Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery believes while the John Hunter works have been mentioned by Treasurer Perrottet, it's unclear what funding will go towards the planning.

EDUCATION

As 2NURFM News has previously reported, the Hunter will share in a statewide $6 billion for public schools.

A new education precinct has been promised for Newcastle, with a new public school to be built and improvements to Newcastle High.

New permanent teaching spaces will be constructed at Callaghan College, while various upgrades will be done at Hunter Sports High and Bolwarra Public among others.

Financial support will be given to TAFE centres at Singleton and Scone, as well as $1.4 million for a customer service and industry development centre at Tighes Hill TAFE.

The Property Council of NSW have welcomed changes to vocational education which will see course fees waived for all new apprenticeships.

Hunter Regional Director, Anita Hugo said the move will "support a pipeline of skilled workers that will be needed to meet future demand...

"We look forward to the positive impact this will have on the Hunter's labour force," Ms Hugo said.

TRANSPORT

The possibility of bringing faster trains to Newcastle for the journey to Sydney will explored with a $6 million investigation, while $14 million will be spent on planning a new freight corridor stretching from Fassifern to Hexham, in a bid to ease blockages on the congested Adamstown railway gates.

$110 million will ensure the Newcastle Light Rail project is completed on time.

OTHER

Maximum security facilities are being increased at Cessnock Correctional Centre, with $105.3 million (half the project cost) to be spent on an additional 330 beds.

Tomaree Coastal walk at Port Stephens will be extended in a project costing $7.1 million over four years.

NSW Treasurer, Dominic Perrottet. 

Police Shortage In Maitland

BY OLIVIA PORTELL

Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison is criticising the state government for failing to enlist more police in Maitland.

The region was promised ten new officers, however, they are still three short.

"We've just had 234 new police recruits coming into the state- three of those have come into the Hunter, but none to Maitland," she says.

"We've only got seven out of ten of the promised recruits, and that is not good enough."

Ms Aitchison feels the area is being overlooked, despite a growing population and crime rate.

"Our population has topped well over 80 thousand now, we need these services to be delivered and yet the government just seems to ignore us," she says.

"They're very happy to build and to knock down stadiums in Sydney, but when it comes to putting police on the ground in Maitland, they can't cut a ribbon for that one."

Since the start of the year, seven outlaw motorcycle gang incidents have occurred, on top of day to day crime.

Ms Aitchison says this, paired with a high domestic violence rate, should be acknowledged.

"In 2016 we were the third highest increase in domestic violence in the state, and we have the highest Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) application rate," she says.

"There have been six to seven incidents of outlaw motorcycle gang violence in the first two months of this year, and a lot of that violence was centred in Maitland,"

"That takes time out of police in their busy schedules, so that makes it even harder."