Editors Picks
05 November 2025
FREE PARK ENTRY FOR VETERAN CARD HOLDERS
THE NSW Government will extend free vehicle entry to NSW national parks for all Commonwealth Veteran Card holders from July 2025. Previously limited to some DVA Gold Card holders, the expanded program will now include White and Orange Card holders, allowing more veterans to access 45 fee-paying parks. The initiative aims to support veterans’ physical and mental wellbeing while recognising their service. NSW has 895 national parks and reserves, with only 5% charging entry fees. Applications will open via the NSW National Parks website.
05 November 2025
SCCAMMERS USE FAKE TERM DEPOSIT SCHEMES
BENDIGO Bank is warning that scammers are increasingly targeting Australians aged 65 and over with fake term deposit schemes. Criminals impersonate legitimate financial institutions and lure retirees into transferring large sums by promising unrealistically high returns. Older Australians reported almost $100M in scam losses last year, making them the most affected age group. The bank advises people to be wary of unsolicited investment contact, avoid clicking links, verify account details, and seek trusted advice. Suspected scams should be reported immediately.
05 November 2025
WARNING OVER NEXT NATURAL DISASTERS
THE Salvation Army Emergency Services is urging Australians to prepare for a higher risk of natural disasters this summer, with the Bureau of Meteorology forecasting increased bushfire, heat and flood threats from October to April. The Salvos, which have supported disaster-hit communities for over 130 years, are encouraging households to create emergency “go bags” and stock essential supplies. In the past three years, SAES volunteers have served 380,000 meals and helped 75,000 people. Practical preparedness resources are available on their website.
05 November 2025
PROTECTING NIGHT WORKERS WITH PLANNING
THE NSW Government has launched the NSW Night Worker Action Plan 2025–2028 to improve the wellbeing, safety and economic contribution of the 1.27 million people working between 6pm and 6am. The plan follows new research showing night workers face transport, security, health and childcare challenges. Key actions include better late-night transport, pilot gig-worker hubs, healthy food micro-markets, and new health and wellbeing resources. The initiative aims to boost productivity and better support workers who keep NSW running overnight.
05 November 2025
CALL FOR NEW SILICA REGISTER
LEADING law firm Slater and Gordon has welcomed the NSW Government’s new Silica Worker Register, calling it a vital step in protecting workers from rising silica-related illnesses. Practice Leader Nicole Valenti said silica exposure poses a serious risk to nearly 600,000 Australian workers, particularly in mining, construction, tunnelling and engineered stone. The register requires employers to record high-risk workers within 28 days of starting employment. Valenti noted younger workers are increasingly being diagnosed, urging ongoing protections, early monitoring and awareness of potential legal compensation avenues.
05 November 2025
YOUNG HOUSE INVESTORS ARE TAKING OVER
A NEW wave of young property investors is emerging, with nearly 60% of clients at Unicorn Buyer’s Agents now aged 30 or under. Gen Z is entering the market not just to own a home but to build long-term wealth, approaching property with strategy and financial literacy. They prioritise data, risk management and expert advice, partnering with buyer’s agents and advisors to future-proof purchases against policy, climate and planning changes. Their disciplined, information-driven approach is reshaping Australia’s property investment landscape.
05 November 2025
UPGRADE TO SENIORS HOUSING UNITS
THE Federal and NSW Governments are delivering 116 new social housing units for seniors in Sydney through the $2B Social Housing Accelerator Fund, with more than half already completed. Recent developments in Northmead, Riverwood, Matraville and North Parramatta are providing safe, accessible homes close to services and transport. A further 55 homes are underway, including major projects in Parramatta and Pagewood. The initiative forms part of a broader plan to build 1,500 SHAF-funded social homes in NSW by 2028, supporting ageing residents’ independence.
