Kate Thwaites

ALP Federal

AI Summary

• The Albanese Government allocates $2.2 million for energy-efficient upgrades in 5 Tasmanian councils as part of a larger $100 million Community Energy Upgrades Fund.
• Projects include converting gas heating to electric at the Burnie Aquatic Centre and installing solar panels at various council facilities, aimed at reducing energy costs and emissions.
• Ministers Chris Bowen, Julie Collins, and Josh Wilson highlight the initiative's focus on supporting local communities and enhancing infrastructure resilience while transitioning to cleaner energy.

AI Summary

• $100 million allocated through the Community Energy Upgrades Fund for energy efficiency projects in local facilities.
• 66 local governments to receive $50 million in grants, including $1 million for Northern Territory councils.
• Alice Springs to receive $875,000 for solar PV, battery storage, and high-efficiency heat pumps at its Aquatic & Leisure Centre.
• Palmerston to get $264,000 for solar PV and battery storage at its Swimming and Fitness Centre.
• Upgrades aim to reduce energy costs, emissions, and improve resilience against climate impacts.

AI Summary

• Reports presented include the NACC's annual report and inspector's report for 2024-25, noting the commission's increasing workload.
• Three recommendations aim to enhance the NACC's process timeliness, communication with referrers, and public confidence.
• The inspector received 75 complaints during the reporting period, indicating growing scrutiny of the NACC's operations.
• An independent inquiry into the NACC's performance has been initiated to address emerging issues.
• The committee acknowledges the inspector's significant work and transparent communication with the public.

AI Summary

• Treasury Laws Amendment Bill proposes to double penalties for ACCC enforcement actions.
• Fair Work Amendment Bill aims to enhance fairness in fuel pricing.
• Both bills are undergoing their Second Reading in Parliament.

Our Government is investing in cleaner, cheaper energy and a more resilient economy for the future. Angus Taylor wants to shut down the transition to renewable energy, instead promising to extend the life of dirty, expensive coal-fired power stations.

Volunteers are at the heart of our community in Jagajaga. From local sporting clubs and emergency services to neighbourhood houses, charities and community groups, so many people generously give their time to support others and help our community thrive. This National Volunteer Week, I want to thank all our incredible volunteers for everything you do.

I am so privileged to have had Peta as my very good friend. Thank you to Rod and all her family for supporting her to keep doing what she loved right up to the end and sharing her with all of us. My thoughts and love are with you. @petajan #auspol

My son called her Aunty Peta, and when we were in Canberra together she read him endless bedtime stories, helping him (and me) to feel like he had an extended family to support him with the coming and going.

The climate crisis is also a health crisis — and climate action can deliver real benefits for people’s health and wellbeing. I’m supporting the Climate and Health Co-benefits Challenge as a Champion alongside Dr. Saia Ma'u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific Region, to help showcase practical examples of climate action improving lives and strengthening communities. Submissions are now open — find out more and apply: https://lnkd.in/gyHbSCJT World Health Organization | Wo...

Across Australia, in our Pacific region, and around the world, the transition to renewable energy is underway. We want to make sure women and girls benefit from this shift, and it was wonderful to gather with leaders in climate, health and more at the Women Deliver conference in Melbourne this week to discuss how we build a better future.