MEDIA RELEASES

by Robert Dwyer 1 September 2026
More local patients to benefit from faster access to planned surgery
by Robert Dwyer 24 August 2026
Robert Dwyer MP welcomes ten new probationary constables’ home to Port Macquarie and Kempsey through Be a Cop in Your Home Town program 
by Robert Dwyer 24 August 2026
Dwyer backs community call for safe footpaths between Kendall, Kew, Lakewood and Laurieton
by Robert Dwyer 18 August 2026
LABOR MUST ADDRESS SERIOUS FLAWS BEFORE GUN BUYBACK BEGINS
by Robert Dwyer 18 August 2026
Dwyer welcomes $400,000 funding boost for community-led projects
by Robert Dwyer 14 August 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer has announced that women and children escaping domestic and family violence across the Port Macquarie, Wauchope and Camden Haven region will benefit from a $5 million investment through the NSW Government's Homelessness Innovation Fund, delivering new transitional housing and integrated recovery support. The project, led by Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services in partnership with Community Housing Limited (CHL), will deliver approximately five to eight transitional housing properties while transforming the way recovery and healing services are provided to women and children rebuilding their lives after violence. Mr Dwyer said the Homelessness Innovation Fund is supporting practical, community-led solutions to address homelessness and improve outcomes for vulnerable people. "Safe housing is fundamental to helping women and children escape violence and rebuild their lives. This investment will deliver more housing while strengthening the support services that help victim-survivors achieve long-term safety and independence," Mr Dwyer said. “This project will make a meaningful difference for families across the region. Every woman and child deserves to live free from violence and have access to safe, secure housing when they need it most." "I'm proud to support this investment, which will strengthen our local response to domestic and family violence and deliver lasting benefits for our community." "This project is about more than providing accommodation. It creates an opportunity for women and children to recover from trauma, remain connected to their community and build a future free from violence," Mr Dwyer said. Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services Chief Executive Officer, Kelly Lamb said the project represents an important evolution in the delivery of specialist domestic and family violence services. "Housing is one of the biggest barriers facing women and children escaping violence, but recovery requires more than a safe place to live. Whilst we do have some existing accommodation in place, it is always oversubscribed with an extensive waiting list." "This project enables us to embed recovery and healing alongside specialist domestic and family violence support, ensuring women and children have the opportunity to heal from trauma, rebuild confidence, strengthen relationships and regain independence." "Recovery and healing are essential parts of ending the cycle of violence. By investing in recovery, we reduce the risk of ongoing harm, homelessness and intergenerational trauma while creating stronger families and safer communities," Ms Lamb said. Community Housing Limited Chief Executive Officer….. said the partnership demonstrates the value of bringing together housing and specialist services. "Community Housing Limited is proud to partner with Liberty to deliver safe, quality transitional housing that provides women and children with stability at one of the most challenging times in their lives." "Working alongside Liberty's specialist expertise will ensure residents receive not only a home, but the support they need to move towards long-term housing and independence." The project forms part of the NSW Government's Homelessness Innovation Fund, which supports innovative approaches to reducing homelessness and improving housing outcomes for vulnerable people across the state. Media Contact: Terry Sara 6584 0977
by Robert Dwyer 12 August 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwer said the NSW Government has responded to concerns about the Lord Howe Island Critical Infrastructure Program (LHI CIP) confirms that significant elements of the proposed marine infrastructure and new vessel remain under review, while community engagement continues. “In correspondence to me, the Government says community consultation is a “core commitment” of the program, including regular community consultation group meetings, community updates, project team contact and community representation on the Project Control Group. The response went on to say, the proposed new marine vessel is being designed to operate using both roll-on, roll-off (RoRo) and lift-on, lift-off (LoLo) configurations. The existing practice of unloading freight by crane onto trucks is expected to continue, alongside forklift-based RoRo operations. Importantly, the vessel design is still being modified following feedback from the Lord Howe Island community. Changes include an increased weathertight cargo area, greater crane capacity, additional cargo storage, increased bunkering capacity, improved crew accommodation and additional cargo-securing fittings. Concerns also remain regarding the proposed marine infrastructure, including the jetty. The Government has confirmed that principal contractor Reeves Envico is undertaking a Marine Infrastructure Feasibility Study to examine community feedback and alternative solutions. The study is considering different concept layouts for both RoRo and LoLo operations, with particular attention to vessel requirements, safety and mooring arrangements. This review is significant because the design of the marine infrastructure will have long-term consequences for freight operations, the island community and the World Heritage environment. The LHI CIP master planning and concept designs were developed through workshops, meetings and interviews with the Lord Howe Island community during 2024 and 2025. However, continued consultation and the current feasibility work demonstrate that important questions about the final marine infrastructure solution remain unresolved. The environmental approval process is also continuing. An Environmental Impact Statement has been prepared as part of the Critical State Significant Infrastructure approval process, with assessment by the NSW Department of Planning, Infrastructure and Housing and consideration of approvals under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. Given Lord Howe Island’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage site of natural significance, the proposed marine infrastructure designs have also been presented to Heritage NSW and the Australian Government’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water. “I hope this clarifies the proposed redevelopment, but if any Islanders have any further issues please do not hesitate to let me know,” Mr Dwyer said. Media Contact: Terry Sara 6584 0977
by Robert Dwyer 12 August 2026
Major road upgrade to transform the journey into Port Macquarie has taken another significant step forward with detailed plans now released by Transport for NSW
Robert Dwyer at Wrights Road
by Robert Dwyer 7 August 2026
The NSW Government today confirmed Port Macquarie’s Wrights Road and Lake Road intersections will be included in staged upgrades to the Oxley Highway
by Robert Dwyer 29 July 2026
Sporting clubs urged to apply for Local Sport Grants 
by Robert Dwyer 18 July 2026
Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer is urging the NSW Government to deliver a budget that balances critical infrastructure investment with support for essential community services as cost-of-living pressures continue to impact local families.
by Robert Dwyer 17 July 2026
The NSW Liberals and Nationals have announced they will reinstate the Regional Seniors Travel Card if elected to government in 2027, providing vital cost-of-living relief for seniors living in regional communities.
by Robert Dwyer 8 July 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer says the growing number of businesses relocating from New South Wales to Queensland demonstrates the urgent need for payroll tax reform to restore the state's competitiveness.
by Robert Dwyer 8 July 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer has welcomed more than $1.27 million in NSW Government funding for the North Coast Regional Landcare Network (NCRLN), describing it as a significant investment in environmental stewardship, climate resilience and Aboriginal partnerships across the region.
by Robert Dwyer 8 July 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer says the NSW Government's $561 million Transport Affordability Package is being sold to the whole state, but two of its four headline measures are built for a network that doesn't exist on the Mid North Coast.
by Robert Dwyer 6 July 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer has welcomed the commencement of tough new laws that will hold commercial landlords accountable if they knowingly allow illicit tobacco and illegal vaping products to be sold from their properties.
by Robert Dwyer 6 July 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer has cautiously welcomed the launch of the state's new Development Coordination Authority (DCA), but says local homeowners and Port Macquarie-Hastings and Mid Coast Councils need a guarantee the one-stop- shop will actually speed up approvals in the regions, not just in Sydney.
by Robert Dwyer 26 June 2026
Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer has responded to the NSW State Budget, welcoming some local investments while calling out the failure to fund Wrights Road, the Thrumster Wastewater Scheme and other critical infrastructure for the region.
by Robert Dwyer 25 June 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer has welcomed a major commitment from the NSW Liberals and Nationals to deliver the most competitive payroll tax regime in Australia, saying the reforms will provide much-needed relief for small and medium-sized businesses across the Mid North Coast.
Robert Dwyer said the report highlights serious concerns around affordability and accessibility
by Robert Dwyer 27 May 2026
Robert Dwyer reports highlights serious concerns around affordability, accessibility, workforce pressures & growing compliance burden placed on providers/educators.
calls for the Minns Government to urgently review and increase financial support for pensioners
by Robert Dwyer 27 May 2026
Robert Dwyer calls on the Minns Government to urgently review and increase financial support for pensioners struggling with rising living costs across NSW.
Robert Dwyer says he is listening closely to community feedback following last week’s announcement
by Robert Dwyer 26 May 2026
Robert Dwyer listening closely to community following last week’s announcement that business case Oxley Highway upgrade between Wrights/Lake Road now completed.
Criticised the Minns Government over its backflip on e-bike identification measures
by Robert Dwyer 26 May 2026
NSW Shadow Transport Minister, Natalie Ward has criticised the Minns Government over its backflip on e-bike id measures, still seeing little for public safety.
Robert Dwyer has continued his strong advocacy for Port Macquarie Hastings Council
by Robert Dwyer 20 May 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer has continued his strong advocacy for Port Macquarie Hastings Council facilitating important meeting - Council and NSW Gvmt.
Robert Dwyer has met with the Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison
by Robert Dwyer 18 May 2026
Robert Dwyer met with Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison to urgently discuss the business case for the proposed upgrade of the Oxley Highway
Robert Dwyer is calling on motorists across the Mid North Coast to make safe driving choices
by Robert Dwyer 18 May 2026
Robert Dwyer is calling on motorists across the Mid North Coast and New South Wales to make safer choices behind the wheel during National Road Safety Week.
by Robert Dwyer 13 May 2026
Mid North Coast Flood Anniversary a Time for Reflection and Ongoing Support 
by Robert Dwyer 6 May 2026
Community urged to back push for Houston Mitchell Drive overpass 
Robert Dwyer has called on motorists to play their part in reducing the state’s rising road toll.
by Robert Dwyer 22 April 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer has called on motorists to play their part in reducing the state’s rising road toll on the eve of the Anzac Day long weekend.
Robert Dwyer met with New South Wales Premier Chris Minns advocating for key infrastructure projects
by Robert Dwyer 22 April 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer has met with New South Wales Premier Chris Minns to advocate for key infrastructure projects critical to the region’s growth.
Funding available under the 2026 Community Building Partnership (CBP) Grants program.
by Robert Dwyer 21 April 2026
Community groups, sporting organisations and NFP's across the Port Macquarie electorate apply for funding - 2026 Community Building Partnership (CBP) Grants program.
Local sporting organisations across the Port Macquarie electorate encouraged to apply for funding
by Robert Dwyer 20 April 2026
Local sporting organisations being encouraged to apply for funding under the Play Her Way Innovation Program, available to support participation among women/girls.
Thirteen regional clubs have collectively raised more than $70,000 to support impacted farmers.
by Robert Dwyer 8 April 2026
The fundraising effort brought together clubs from across the region, highlighting the strong community spirit/commitment supporting those affected by disasters.”
rollout out across NSW of a free, needle-free flu vaccine for children aged two to four
by Robert Dwyer 8 April 2026
Robert Dwyer has welcomed the rollout out across NSW of a free, needle-free flu vaccine for children aged two to four, making it easier than ever to protect kids.
Nine sporting clubs across the Port Macquarie electorate will benefit from a combined $46,000.
by Robert Dwyer 31 March 2026
Nine sporting clubs across the Port Macquarie electorate will benefit from a combined $46,000 in funding through the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program 2025.
Robert Dwyer has thrown his support behind calls for free public transport across NSW this Easter
by Robert Dwyer 25 March 2026
Robert Dwyer has thrown his support behind calls for free public transport across NSW this Easter long weekend, proposal would deliver relief to local families
Dwyer is calling on the New South Wales Government to significantly increase the supply of housing
by Robert Dwyer 25 March 2026
Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer calling on the NSW Government to significantly increase supply of social/affordable housing in the upcoming State Budget.
Dwyer is calling on the Minns Labor Government to urgently deliver improved bus services
by Robert Dwyer 24 March 2026
Robert Dwyer is calling on the Minns Labor Government to urgently deliver improved bus services under the 16 Regional Cities Bus Service Improvement Program.
two in three domestic and family violence (DFV) victims unable to be allocated caseworker
by Robert Dwyer 17 March 2026
Media reports revealed that two in three domestic and family violence (DFV) victims across New South Wales are unable to be allocated a caseworker when needed.
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer said the community response to the campaign growing
by Robert Dwyer 17 March 2026
Hundreds of residents have voiced concerns about traffic congestion by submitting feedback Transport for NSW website, calling for urgent upgrades to Oxley Highway.
nation-leading license plate scheme for e-bikes used by young riders and commercial operators
by Robert Dwyer 13 March 2026
Member Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer welcomes NSW Liberal Party/The Nationals introduce a nation-leading license plate scheme for e-bikes, aimed at improving safety.
Motorists using the Oxley Highway into Port Macquarie are being urged to take action
by Robert Dwyer 3 March 2026
Motorists using the Oxley Highway into Port Macquarie urged to take action,formally request improvements to one region’s busiest, most critical transport corridors.
The Minns Labor Government has been accused of slugging NSW families and small businesses.
by Robert Dwyer 2 March 2026
Minns Labor Government accused of slugging NSW families/small businesses with higher power bills. Minister Sharpe acknowledged energy prices in NSW increased by 20%
The homelessness crisis in New South Wales is continuing to spiral out of control under Labor
by Robert Dwyer 11 February 2026
The homelessness crisis in New South Wales is continuing to spiral out of control under Minns Labor Govt. New figures revealing the scale of the emergency.
Robert Dwyer MP has co-chaired the inaugural meeting of the Parliamentary Friends of Parkinson’s.
by Robert Dwyer 10 February 2026
Robert Dwyer MP has co-chaired the inaugural meeting of the Parliamentary Friends of Parkinson’s at Parliament House, marking an important step in raising awareness.
by Robert Dwyer 10 February 2026
Local Businesses Encouraged to Apply for NSW EV Fast-Charging Grants Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer is encouraging local businesses across the Mid North Coast to apply for NSW Government funding to install electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging stations, as part of ongoing efforts to expand clean transport infrastructure across the state. Under Round 4 of the NSW Electric Vehicle Strategy, funding has been allocated to help make EV ownership more convenient, accessible and reliable for motorists, particularly in regional areas. Mr Dwyer said the program has been updated to better reflect its long-term focus, including overcoming range anxiety, improving connectivity between metropolitan and regional NSW, and future-proofing the EV charging network beyond 2030. “Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular in areas like the Mid North Coast, and it’s important our infrastructure keeps pace with demand,” Mr Dwyer said. “Eligible businesses can apply for grants of up to $20 million to install fast-charging stations, which will give drivers confidence to travel between towns and regions.” Mr Dwyer said the grants also present an opportunity for local businesses to attract visitors and support the regional economy. “Fast-charging stations encourage motorists to stop, shop and spend time in our communities, delivering real benefits for local businesses and tourism,” he said. “This is a practical investment that supports local jobs, strengthens our visitor economy and helps reduce transport emissions at the same time.” “By working together with local businesses, we can ensure the Mid North Coast is well positioned to benefit from the shift to electric vehicles and remain a connected, attractive destination for residents and visitors alike,” Mr Dwyer said. Businesses are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and apply through the NSW Government grants at www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/round-4-drive-electric-nsw-ev-fast-charging-grants Applications close 24th April 2026 at 11:00pm Media Contact: Terry Sara 6584 0977 or 0409 834 648
Celebrating Dr Aunty Rhonda Radley: 2026 NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year Finalist
by Robert Dwyer 9 February 2026
Dr Aunty Rhonda Radley, a proud Birrbay and Dunghutti woman , has been named a finalist for the 2026 NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year Award.
by Robert Dwyer 4 February 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer has criticised the NSW Government’s Work Health and Safety Amendment (Digital Work Systems) Bill 2025, warning it will impose new compliance burdens on regional employers, undermine innovation, and create uncertainty for businesses already under pressure.
by Robert Dwyer 28 January 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer has been appointed Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Roads, strengthening the NSW Opposition’s focus on improving road safety, connectivity and investment across regional New South Wales.
by Robert Dwyer 28 January 2026
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer, has not publicly supported or opposed the proposed 18-storey development in Park Street, Port Macquarie.