A NUMBER of changes to social security payments, rates, and limits will commence from 20 September 2025. People receiving the full single rate of Age Pension, Disability Support Pension or Carer Payment will see a $29.70 boost to their fortnightly payment. People receiving Commonwealth Rent Assistance, JobSeeker, ABSTUDY (aged 22 and over), and Parenting Payment […]
DUNGOG Shire Council has approved a $6.02 million development application to construct and operate a new bar, restaurant and function centre at 29–35 Grey Street, Clarence Town. The proposal, lodged in February 2025, was brought before Council due to its high estimated development cost and the number of public submissions received. Twelve submissions were lodged, […]
DUNGOG Shire Council has reported a significant uplift in development activity over the April to June 2025 quarter, with 62 development applications (DAs) determined – an increase from 47 in the same period last year. Lodgements also rose, with 63 applications submitted compared to 49 in the previous year. The total value of approved development […]
THE State Government is investing an additional $3 million to support farmers to develop “natural capital” projects. The funding will extend the Government’s Natural Capital Support Services program for another year, which provides tailored advice and support for landholders to explore natural capital and environmental market opportunities. In farming, natural capital refers to the stock […]
THE new Dungog Community Preschool has secured $39,907 from the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership (CBP) program with 2025 funding for the Upper Hunter Electorate announced last week. “This grant will allow Dungog Community Preschool Kindergarten Incorporated to have playground amenities which are considered essential for the student numbers expected in the 2026 school year,” […]
ELIGIBLE primary producers impacted by the May floods can now apply for a “self-contained pod” on their property. Offered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority and the Commonwealth Government, the pods are designed for use in rural environments, and are equipped with generators and water tanks, allowing them to operate independently of existing utilities and infrastructure. […]
A FREE digital readiness workshop will be held in Stroud in September, through a collaboration between nbn, MidCoast Council and The Business Centre Newcastle. The workshop is suited to small businesses seeking ways to enhance their digital skills and capabilities. Workshops are designed to provide small business owners with expert guidance and practical advice on […]
HUNTER region councils can now apply for a share of $10 million to plant trees, shrubs, and native vegetation in parks, plazas, and other public spaces. The funding comes due to an expansion of the “Greening Our City” program beyond Greater Sydney for the first time. “The program is designed to increase tree planting, which […]
A NEW maritime facility will be built in Newcastle to attract servicing of international super yachts and new saleyards infrastructure will be delivered in Singleton. The State Government is investing $8.73 million into the two Hunter projects through its Regional Economic Development and Community Investment Program. With co-contributions from the two successful applicants, the projects […]
A NEW handbook guiding landowners and solar developers to “harness the benefits of combining agriculture with solar energy” is now available. EnergyCo will launch the Agrivoltaics Handbook, a guide to preserving productive agricultural practices while meeting the state’s growing renewable energy needs. It was developed by Farm Renewables Consulting and Progressive Agriculture, with support from […]
