Welcome to my weekly e-newsletter
Dear Daniel
Welcome to my weekly e-newsletter about the Hunter Electorate.
As your Federal Member of Parliament, I want to make sure you have access to the latest news and information about what is happening in the Hunter Electorate.
If there is anything you would like to see included, or any suggestions about what shouldn't be included please feel free to let me know.
Regards
Dan Repacholi MP
Federal Member for Hunter
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PS, make sure you stay up to date with everything that is happening by following my social media channels.
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$9.5 million for Aged Care in Denman
The Albanese Government is investing $9,539,675 to support Merton Living to construct a new 30-bed facility in Denman.
Merton Living is one of 52 infrastructure projects funded through Round 2 of the Aged Care Capital Assistance Program (ACCAP).
This funding is great news for the Hunter. Merton Living will support older locals to access quality aged care services while remaining close to their families and cultural connections.
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Play Our Way Grant for Kurri
Sports Minister Anika Wells, the incredible Meryl Swanson and I announced a Play Our Way Grant for Kurri Kurri Community Services.
What’s it for, you ask?
We are refurbishing the Kurri Kurri Gynastics Club. That’s right, we’re:
 Upgrading the toilets and change rooms (because no one sticks a landing with dodgy plumbing).
Installing air-conditioning (because sweating is for training, not sitting).
This means our little gymnasts can now train in style AND comfort all year round.
I’m calling it now—Kurri’s next Simone Biles is stretching her way to Olympic greatness as we speak.
And when she’s up there doing triple flips, you’ll know it all started with some fancy new toilets.
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Medicare Urgent Care Clinic Opens in Charlestown
The Government is delivering on its promise to strengthen Medicare and improve access to vital services for families in our region. with another new Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, this time in Charlestown.
This is fantastic news for families across the Hunter and nearby areas.
The clinic will take the strain off emergency departments, making sure that everyone in our community can access high-quality healthcare at the right time and in the right place.
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Howe Park Tennis Club receives $1.25m
While my serve is clearly Olympic-ready (see exhibit A), I'll leave the court domination to the real tennis stars of Singleton.
Big cheers for the $1.25M flood-proofing project at Howe Park Tennis Club – no more soggy balls or underwater volleys!
Huge thanks to Singleton Council and Federal Minister Jenny McAllister for making it happen.
Time to get out there, Singleton – who knows, the next Ash Barty could be you! Just don’t ask me to coach.
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Abermain Tower Update
I have received an update from Telstra regarding the mobile phone tower at Abermain after it was destroyed by fire in late September.
Network integration should commence this Tuesday (10th December) with services progressively being restored from this point.
They expect works to be completed by the end of next week.
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Better Protection on Privacy
Strong privacy laws are essential to Australians’ trust and confidence in the digital economy and digital services provided by governments and industry.
Australians have a right to have their privacy respected, and when they are asked to hand over their personal data they have a right to expect it will be protected.
The new laws passed in November represent a significant step forward in the Government’s commitment to bring the Privacy Act into the digital age.
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And it’s just a first step. The Government will keep working to provide individuals with greater control over their personal information.
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Disaster Support After Earthquake
Disaster assistance is now available in the Muswellbrook Local Government Area (LGA) following impacts of multiple earthquakes between 23 August 2024 and 12 November 2024.
The assistance measures are being provided by the Australian and NSW Governments through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
The support includes assistance for Muswellbrook Shire Council to help with the costs of restoring damaged essential public assets.
I encourage everyone impacted to access the available support and know that we are here to help.
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Further information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist website by clicking on the button below.
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nbn Address Checker
Nbn are making changes to the nbn network in our area. These changes are essential to Australia’s growth and mean you could experience improved connectivity with faster internet speeds, increased reliability and more choice.
To see if you are eligible to upgrade please click on the button below to use the nbn address checker.
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The Regional Tech Hub
The Regional Tech Hub offers a free, independent Connectivity Report detailing all your phone and internet options tailored to your location and needs.
Simply complete the online form by clicking on the button below and they will provide you with your personalised report.
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Mandatory SMS Sender ID
Too many Australians are getting ripped off by dodgy scam texts, and we’re cracking down on it.
We are implementing a mandatory SMS Sender ID Register to help stop scammers using the names of trusted brands, like Australia Post and myGov, to deceive Australians and steal their hard-earned money.
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Toronto High School
This week I caught up with the student leadership team at Toronto High School.
This annual tradition is one of my favourites: burgers, banter, and big ideas.
We covered some great topics like study, work, life, and leadership, but the hot issue? The social media ban. Some great feedback and ideas about how to make it work.
Thanks for the chat, legends! Looking forward to seeing what you achieve next.
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Nominate a Mobile Black Spot
The Government is providing up to $55 million under Round 8 of the Mobile Black Spot Program to co-fund projects with mobile carriers and tower companies that deliver new and improved mobile coverage and competition in regional, rural and remote areas of Australia that are prone to Natural Disasters, including bushfires, cyclones and floods.
I know there are some mobile black spots around the Hunter electorate. If you have a mobile black spot in your area, let me know by clicking on the button below.
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Australia Post Scams Awareness
Australia Post are preparing for the busy period and they want to keep the community safe.
They’ve created a short video on scam awareness, highlighting that the AusPost app is the most secure way to track and manage deliveries.
Click on the button below to watch the video.
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Watch Video Here
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For more information about the AusPost app and what to look out for and how to report Australia Post scams please click on the button below.
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Hunter Christmas Appeal
Christmas is a time for giving, and your generosity could bring a smile to a child’s face.
While we know times are tough, even a small gift can make a big difference for families in need across the Hunter.
So my office will be collecting gifts to give to local charities.
How can you help?
Drop off your donation at my office:
📍 3 Edward Street, Cessnock
🗓 By Monday, 16 December
Let’s work together to make this Christmas a little brighter for everyone in our community.
Thank you for your support!
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Scam Alert
There is an increase in reports related to threats and extortion scams.
Scammers will stop at nothing to get your money.
They’ll pose as authorities or organisations, threatening arrest, deportation, or even physical harm if you don’t pay up immediately.
If you receive a call, message or email unexpectedly:
- Delete it or hang up.
- Do not click on any links.
- Never send money or give credit card details.
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The ‘Hi mum’ scams are also increasing again.
The sender greets you as Mum or Dad and claims to have lost their phone and asks you to message them back on a new phone number.
Do not reply directly to the message.
Learn how to recognise, avoid, and act against scams by visiting the Scamwatch website by clicking on the button below.
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Responsible Pet Rehoming
Maitland and Cessnock City Councils are advocating for residents to consider responsible rehoming in the lead up to Christmas this year, as staff and volunteers feel the strain of a string of abandoned animals.
Since the start of October approximately a third of all dogs processed at the Maitland Animal Management Facility were found to have been abandoned at the facility or dumped in the bush.
Residents can find more information and advice on responsible rehoming by clicking on the link below.
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Introducing the NourishEd Community Pantry Service
Each week NourishEd Australia hosts & distributes low cost hampers, a small FREE open pantry, a FREE cafe service, a community library and a kids corner.
Each hamper easily has at least $35 worth of food and contains essentials such as milk, bread, potatoes, pasta, canned goods, fruit and vegetables, etc (items vary each week). They also have free hygiene & sanitary products and other food supplies that they distribute for free (depending on availability).
They want to ensure that everyone in our community is aware of NourishEd Australia and invite everyone to utilise their services whenever they may be required. There are no pre-requisites or bookings required to access there services - everyone is welcome at NourishEd Australia. Every household across the Hunter are invited to shop at NourishEd and access their free help.
They do not just support the homeless or vulnerable but anyone facing financial or food insecurity regardless of their circumstances. Whether they need support as a one off or on a weekly basis they're there to support.
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Located at 3/6 The Boulevarde, Toronto and are open every Thursday (1pm-6pm) and Friday (9am-1pm). They hope to distribute as many hampers and food supplies as they can.
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Dan and the Doctor Podcast
Sam Rae MP
Episode 13 of the Dan and the Doctor Podcast is now available and this month we chatted with the Federal Member for Hawke, Sam Rae MP.
Join Gordon and I as we have a light hearted chat to the Federal Member for Hawke, Sam Rae. Hear about Sam's dramatic last day of High School, which South American country he had some "difficulties" in and his love of a plastic mattress.
The Podcast is a 30 minute chat with MP's about politics, elections and of course their favourite food.
You can watch the podcast on YouTube or download from your usual podcast sites.
Make sure you hit the subscribe button.
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Watch the latest episode here
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Christmas Day Luncheon Cessnock
The Spirit of Giving Fundraising Hub will be providing a free Christmas Day lunch with entertainment on December 25th.
A 3 Course meal will be served from midday at the Wesley Hall Uniting Church Corner of Cooper & Cumberland Street Cessnock.
To donate or volunteer please phone or text 0419 275 450.
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Are You Looking For Staff or Volunteers?
There are many people across the electorate looking for employment, volunteer work or training opportunities.
If you have a job vacancy, volunteer positions or training courses that you would like to advertise please feel free to send me the link to the application and I will publish it on my Hunter Jobs Board on my website.
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Click on the button below to have a look at my Hunter Jobs Board.
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ADRA Op Shop Morisset Volunteers Needed
Volunteers Wanted – ADRA Op Shop Morisset 19 Gateway Boulevard Morisset.
Are you looking for a way to give back to the community, meet new people, and have a blast while doing it? Look no further! The ADRA Op Shop in Morisset is on a mission to tackle the mountain of donations with the help of some fantastic volunteers.
Whether you're a sorting superstar, a pricing pro, or just someone who enjoys a good treasure hunt, your skills are needed. Imagine the thrill of diving into piles of donations, uncovering hidden gems, and knowing that your efforts are supporting a great cause.
Plus, you'll be part of a team that's as fun and vibrant as a box of mismatched socks. And let's not forget the highlight – morning tea! It's like a party with snacks where everyone's invited.
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So, if you've got a few hours to spare and want to join the ranks of the most cheerful charity champions in town, give Theo a call 0407 497 855. Who knows, you might just find your next favourite outfit or a new best friend among the racks!
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Grants
At present, there are a range of grant programs open that may be of interest to you and your organisation.
Details for some of these initiatives are included below, but for more information please feel free to visit the grants section on my website.
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The 2024-25 Volunteer Grants Program
Volunteer Grants support the work of local community organisations by reducing barriers for volunteers and increasing participation in volunteering.
Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 will be available to assist eligible not-for-profit community organisations that rely on volunteers. Grants can be used to purchase communication or insurance items and/or purchase items or services to assist volunteers or volunteer-run activities that support the well-being and development of children (under 18).
The 2024–25 Volunteer Grants Opportunity is open for expressions of interest through my office. Interested organisations should read the Grant Opportunity Guidelines and use the Expression of Interest form below to submit an expression of interest.
Grant Opportunity Guidelines have been published with this Forecast Opportunity to facilitate access to the required information for organisations wishing to express interest in the round. These are available below.
Expressions of Interest close at 5pm on Thursday 19 December 2024.
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Mobile Offices & Street Stalls
I am holding Mobile Offices and Street Stalls right across the electorate. This is a great opportunity to discuss issues you might have relating to Centrelink, Child Support, childcare, immigration, Medicare, superannuation, taxation, Veterans Affairs and the NDIS or just to have a general chat.
I will have some mobile offices coming up over the next 2 weeks so if you want to make a time to see me, please contact the office and book a time.
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Local Events
Below are details about local events and services in the Cessnock, Lake Macquarie, Muswellbrook and Singleton Local Government Areas that are coming up.
If you have an event that you would like to advertise, please feel free to send them through to me.
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Check out all the local events across the Hunter by clicking on the Local Government Areas below
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Make sure you stay up to date with everything that is happening by following my social media channels.
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Don't drink and drive - Don't mix drugs and driving
