Capital expenditure in NSW has reached $6.9 billion in the June quarter – higher than any other state since 2005. In annual average terms, capital expenditure has increased by 0.4 per cent, while in the rest of Australia it has declined by 13 per cent.

Further proof that our economy is steaming ahead and businesses are voting with their feet, increasingly investing in NSW above any other state. 

Households and businesses struggling with increasing power prices could save hundreds of dollars a year off their energy bills under the nation’s most comprehensive energy relief package.

Through the package, all energy rebates will increase by 20 per cent, there will be discounts on energy efficient appliances and small businesses could save up to $1,900 a year.

In addition, energy rebates for concession card holders will increase by $50 per year to $285 and rebates for other eligible households will increase by $30 per year to $180, assisting around 900,000 households that are doing it tough.

There will also be discounts for energy efficient lighting and air conditioning upgrades, refrigerators and TVs.

Energy retailers will also be forced to scrap early termination fees, paper bill fees and fees for paying over the counter at Australia Post.

These changes will protect and empower energy consumers who deserve a fair go, whilst also making retailers step up.

The increased rebates will come into effect immediately for consumers who already receive energy rebates while the appliance upgrade discount will start in early 2018.

For more information on rebates visit www.resourcesandenergy.nsw.gov.au/energy-consumers/financial-assistance/rebates

The introduction of a five-star safety rating system is one step closer with backing from federal Minister’s last week.

Ministers have agreed to support all necessary steps to expedite the regulatory impact assessment processes to introduce the ratings system and associated safety standards for all quad bikes.

This is a significant step forward in helping to reduce deaths and injuries from quad bike incidents, not just in NSW, but across the country.

The proposed rating system is aimed at giving consumers all the information they need to make the safest possible choice when buying a quad bike.

For more information visit www.safework.nsw.gov.au/health-and- safety/safety-topics-a-z/quad-bikes

The NSW Government has cleared the way for more schools and childcare centres where they are needed most, with faster approval processes to help meet growing demand and future needs.

The new policy has cut red tape to make NSW planning requirements consistent with national service requirements and unlock much needed student placement by streamlining the planning assessment process.

Our schools will benefit from a streamlined planning policy as upgrades, repairs and appropriate expansions can now get underway as soon as possible.

TAFES and universities will also benefit from the changes.

To view the policy visit www.planning.nsw.gov.au/educationandchildcare