The NSW government has called on Sydney motorists to access its toll relief scheme, with 140 million dollars unclaimed in the first year of the initiative, and a further 720-thousand road users eligible to claim relief.

Under the “toll cap” introduced by the NSW government in January 2024, drivers spending over 60 dollars weekly on tolls can claim back tolls paid in excess of the amount.

Roads Minister John Graham announced that 75 million dollars has been paid so far under the scheme, with the average claim amounting to 277 dollars.

Suburbs such as Parramatta, Lidcombe and Schofields saw average claims above 300 dollars.

Mr Graham urged motorists to claim via the Service NSW website, stating, “The toll cap is making it fairer for drivers who heavily rely on toll roads.”

Meanwhile, the government continues discussions with private operators, including Transurban, to introduce a network-wide pricing system to ease toll costs.

The Queensland government has announced it will allocate 32.4 million dollars, over five years, to expand its youth crime rapid response unit, adding 41 officers to the State Flying Squad.

The funding, announced a month after the introduction of tougher youth justice laws, triples the capacity of Taskforce Guardian, the Queensland Police’s key youth crime initiative.

Premier David Crisafulli emphasised the enhanced capacity of the squad, emphasising the objective of rapid response when it comes to policing crime hotspots.

The controversial “adult crime, adult time” laws, passed in December, increase jail sentences for serious youth offenders, including life sentences for children as young as 10, convicted of severe crimes.

An Office of the Public Guardian report tabled last week, revealed a 50 per cent increase in children aged 13 years or younger, being held in adult watch houses, over the past year.

New South Wales faces a mental health crisis after 200 psychiatrists, about half the workforce, resigned over stalled pay negotiations and staff shortages.

Health Minister Ryan Park admitted the resignations would severely impact patients, but rejected the demanded 25 per cent pay rise, citing unaffordability.

The increase would add 90,000 dollars per psychiatrist annually, which Park deemed unsustainable.

The Australian Salaried Medical Officers Federation has criticised the government for neglecting retention issues, leaving one-third of psychiatrist roles unfilled.

Acting director Ian Lisser said psychiatrists feel cornered by difficult conditions and uncompetitive salaries, compared to other states.

NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce acknowledged the challenge of replacing 200 psychiatrists and outlined contingency plans, including engaging private providers and adjusting workforce models.

The dispute will be addressed in the Industrial Relations Commission next week.