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NSW Government joins with Business Sydney to unlock power of social enterprise

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NSW Government joins with Business Sydney to unlock power of social enterprise

The Minns Labor Government has joined with Business Sydney to launch a new report highlighting the growing economic and social contribution of social enterprises and outlining how government and business procurement can help unlock their full potential.

Released today at Business Sydney’s Social Enterprise: Unlocking Life Changing Economic Power event, the report shows around one-third of Australia’s social enterprises are based in NSW, contributing almost $9 billion to the state economy in the year to June 2025, while creating jobs and training opportunities for people facing the greatest barriers to employment.

The launch comes as the Minns Labor Government is implementing a series of procurement reforms designed to drive local economic development and create more jobs for NSW workers and businesses, that will create new opportunities for social enterprises.

These reforms include establishing a Local Jobs First Commission to support local industries, and introducing an ‘If not, why not’ mandate requiring NSW Government agencies to engage with local NSW suppliers before going to tender for projects worth more than $7.5 million.

Social enterprises are businesses that trade with a social, cultural or environmental purpose. They operate across a wide range of industries, from construction, cleaning and hospitality to technology, logistics, training and design, combining commercial success with a commitment to people and the planet.

By engaging social enterprises through procurement policies, the NSW Government is supporting inclusive economic development that delivers financial value alongside measurable social and environmental impact for local communities.

This approach aligns with the NSW Performance and Wellbeing Framework, which recognises the importance of considering social, wellbeing and economic outcomes alongside the performance of government services.

Minister for Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement Courtney Houssos will today address social enterprise and business leaders at Business Sydney’s event to formally launch the report. The report includes a five-point plan to support the long-term growth and sustainability of the sector, alongside case studies demonstrating the impact of social enterprises across NSW.

“Social enterprises deliver genuine economic and social benefits for communities across NSW. By joining with Business Sydney to launch this report, we are highlighting the important role social
enterprises play in creating jobs, strengthening communities and driving inclusive economic growth,” Ms Houssos said.

“Many of these organisations are deeply connected to their local communities, reinvesting profits back into services, training and employment opportunities for people who need them most.

“The Minns Labor Government is using the weight of government procurement to drive better outcomes for NSW, which means more local jobs, stronger supply chains and more inclusive growth.”

Business Sydney Executive Director Paul Nicolaou welcomed the NSW Government’s leadership in recognising social enterprises as a valued and growing part of the state economy.

“The Government’s Local Jobs First Commission and its “if not, why not” mandate for government agencies to engage with NSW suppliers before going to tender for projects valued at more than $7.5 million could also benefit social enterprises,” Mr Nicolaou said.

“It is just as imperative that businesses give due consideration to engaging with social enterprises by making them part of their supply chain procurement policies.

“We would like to see businesses follow the government’s lead in recognising social enterprises as one of the most innovative and inspiring sectors of the business community.

“With 4,000 social enterprises in NSW contributing $9 billion to the state economy, our state is the leader in this growing sector.

“Social enterprises help vulnerable groups in the community to find work and career opportunities that might not otherwise exist, and we must do everything possible to help them prosper.”

The report highlights that social enterprises reinvest an average of 27 per cent of their revenue into social and environmental impact, with 43 per cent of jobs going to people facing the greatest barriers to employment. It also points to research showing how governments can achieve cost savings when investing in social enterprises through procurement.

The event provides an opportunity to recognise the significant contribution social enterprises make to the NSW economy and to encourage more businesses to include them in their own procurement policies.

To view the report, visit the Business Sydney website.

Nun Makrina of Panagia Gorgoepikoos monastery in Geelong passes away

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Nun Makrina of Panagia Gorgoepikoos monastery in Geelong passes away

The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia has announced the passing of Nun Makrina, a devoted monastic known for her humility, prayerful life and service to the faithful.

Born in Australia in 1941 as Gwendoline Valerie Eve, the late nun was raised in the Anglican faith before embracing Orthodoxy later in life. In 1988, following catechism by the Very Reverend Archimandrite of the Ecumenical Throne, Fr Miltiadis Chryssavgis – then parish priest at the Church of Saint George in Rose Bay, Sydney – she was received into the Orthodox Church through the sacrament of Holy Chrism, taking the name Anna.

Her spiritual journey deepened in the years that followed. In 1992, she was tonsured a nun and given the name Makrina by His Grace Bishop Ezekiel of Dervis. She later received the Great Schema in 1998 from the same hierarch, marking the highest level of monastic commitment in the Orthodox tradition.

Nun Makrina was closely associated with the monastic community at the Panagia Gorgoepikoos Monastery in Geelong, Victoria where she became known for her quiet devotion and her care for both the Sisterhood and the many pilgrims who visited the monastery.

His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia paid tribute to her life, describing her as “a humble and devout soul, dedicated to prayer and distinguished by her boundless love for the Sisterhood and for the pilgrims who visited her monastery in Geelong.”

“The gentleness of her countenance and the peace of her heart bore witness to the presence of Christ within her,” he said, adding: “May the Lord, through the intercessions of His Most Holy Mother – whom she so deeply loved and served – grant rest to her soul in the land of the living.”

The funeral service for Nun Makrina will be held on Holy Tuesday, 7 April 2026, at 11am at the Holy Monastery of the Precious Cross in Mangrove Mountain, New South Wales. Burial will follow at the monastery’s cemetery.

Sam Konstas among six omitted from Cricket Australia’s contract list

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Sam Konstas among six omitted from Cricket Australia’s contract list

Sam Konstas is one of six players who have been ommitted from Cricket Australia’s 2026–27 contracts list, marking a downturn after his eye-catching Test debut.

Despite the setback, Konstas still has a chance to represent Australia in the upcoming season if his form warrants selection. Australia’s men’s team is next in action in August in a home Test series against Bangladesh.

Chair of selectors George Bailey said the demanding schedule means opportunities will still arise for non-contracted players. “Given the upcoming schedule of series we know we will continue to need and utilise players outside of those contracted,” he said.

“This year, perhaps more than ever, it is essential we continue working closely with and collaborate with states to ensure players are developing and ready for international cricket when they get opportunities.”

Konstas has struggled to build on his early impact on an international level since he scored a half-century on his debut against India in the 2024 Boxing Day Test. Since then, he has accumulated just 103 runs across nine Test innings, leaving him with a Test average of 16.30.

At a domestic level, the 20-year-old recorded the fifth-highest run tally in the Sheffield Shield last season, though his average of 33 — including one century from 20 innings — was the lowest among the top five runscorers.

Konstas was also not selected at any stage during last summer’s Ashes.

Source: ABC News

Tributes flow for co-founder of Tim & Terry Oyster Supply, Terry Arhontogiorgis

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Tributes flow for co-founder of Tim & Terry Oyster Supply, Terry Arhontogiorgis

Family and friends have paid tribute to Leftheri (Terry) Arhontogiorgis, co-founder of Tim & Terry Oyster Supply, following his passing last week.

Terry was loved as a father, uncle and pappou, and was known for his legacy at Tim & Terry which he founded alongside his brother-in-law Tim Siderellis.

In a social media post announcing Terry’s passing, his family wrote, “He was a true trailblazer, the epitome of hard work, honesty, and integrity. He ran a tight ship, was a teacher to many, and earned respect far and wide, not just for what he built, but for how he carried himself every single day.”

Established in 1964, Tim & Terry are one of the largest premium seafood wholesalers in Victoria. The Footscray-based family business provides quality seafood and food services across Victoria. They cover the Mornington Peninsula, Geelong, Bellarine Peninsula,Country Victoria, Southern NSW and Tasmania, including freight to King Island.

Terry will be remembered for his spark, quiet humour and love for life. “His coffee mug was never far from reach, often topped up with a little whiskey, and he could always be heard singing his favorite Greek songs, bringing warmth and laughter wherever he was,” his family said.

“To us, he was more than a founder. He was our father, uncle and grandfather, our guide, and the heart of so much that we hold dear. A legacy like no other, and one that will live on through all of us.”

The funeral service for Terry will be held on Wednesday, April 8 at 11:30am at the Archangels Greek Orthodox Church in Parkdale, Victoria.

Cyprus marks EOKA anniversary with message of unity and history

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Cyprus marks EOKA anniversary with message of unity and history

The anniversary of the EOKA struggle against British colonial rule was commemorated in Cyprus at the Tassos Papadopoulos — Eleftheria stadium by President Nikos Christodoulides on Wednesday, April 1.

EOKA, the national organisation of Cypriot fighters, fought a campaign for the end of British rule in Cyprus, and for eventual union with Greece.

Christodoulides used his address to emphasise the importance of historical awareness in efforts to resolve the Cyprus problem, and he also sent a message to Turkey, Turkish Cypriots and Britain.

In his address, Christodoulides referenced the “pride, deep emotion and boundless respect” he has for those who were part of the EOKA struggle and also paid tribute to fallen and surviving “warriors.”

“Without basic equipment or military training, they stood up to the army of a powerful empire and determined the course of our country,” he said.

Christodoulides acknowledged the struggle, led politically by Archbishop Makarios III and militarily by Georgios Grivas Digenis, remains a “beacon” for today’s political efforts.

“More than seven decades on, the stake remains the same: ending the occupation, liberation and reunification of our homeland,” he said.

He added that Cyprus must become a truly sovereign state “that exercises sovereignty across its entire territory, respects the rights of all its lawful citizens — European citizens — and allows them to live, work and create in conditions of security and prosperity, as is the case for all other European citizens.”

He said educating the younger generation about EOKA will lead to a better Cyprus. “Achieving our goals requires knowledge of our true history,” he said, adding that such knowledge “does not in any way act against a possible solution.”

“This, in no way, works against efforts to resolve the Cyprus problem, since the viability of any solution depends largely on respect for each side’s historical identity, not its erasure,” he said.

Christodoulides placed particular focus on the selflessness of those who took part and the need for historical knowledge as a foundation for future political efforts as key parts of the struggle.

“The clergy and the people, united, believed in a sacred goal… and led us to what we have today — the Republic of Cyprus, the most important asset we possess,” he said.

Situating his comments in today’s political climate, he said Cyprus continues its “great effort for liberation, for ending the occupation and reunifying our homeland.”

Asked if his remarks were aimed at Ankara and the Turkish Cypriot leadership — who have at times labelled Eoka a terrorist organisation — Christodoulides confirmed they were. “It is a message to our Turkish Cypriot compatriots, to Turkey, and to Great Britain,” he said.

He said that although enosis was not achieved, the movement led to the creation of the Republic of Cyprus, which he described as the island’s greatest achievement.

Christodoulides earlier had attended a doxology in Nicosia alongside Archbishop Georgios, House president Annita Demetriou, Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas, Labour Minister Marinos Mousiouttas and Greek ambassador Konstantinos Kollias.

Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis called the anniversary “one of the most glorious chapters of our modern history” and said Eoka’s legacy should inspire ongoing efforts to end what he described as Turkish occupation. He also highlighted strong student participation at the commemoration.

Further events in Limassol were attended by Deputy Culture Minister Vasiliki Kassianidou and Health Minister Neophytos Charalambides. During a church service Archimandrite Isaac stressed that “anniversaries are not only memories; they are responsibilities.” He called for unity and commitment to freedom without fostering hatred.

Commemorations included a procession to EOKA leader Georgios Grivas Digenis’ hideout and tomb, a ceremonial flame lighting, and wreath-laying ceremonies.

The Cyprus Bar Association also highlighted lawyers’ role in defending EOKA members, calling the struggle “an expression of the fundamental right of peoples to self-determination” and describing British colonial measures as “dark pages.” It added that any Cyprus settlement must align with international and European law, safeguarding independence, territorial integrity and human rights.

Source: Cyprus Mail

Crete covered by red dust cloud as Greece hit by Storm Erminio

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Crete covered by red dust cloud as Greece hit by Storm Erminio

The skies over Crete turned fiery orange when a Saharan dust cloud swept over the island as the region was battered by Storm Erminio, leaving flights to be diverted from the popular tourist destination.

The dusty conditions have been intensified by Storm Erminio, which has brought heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds across Greece.

The phenomenon is known as “calima”, which is when dust blows over from the Saharan desert, however experts have warned that this calima is more extreme than normal.

Meteorologists have reported extremely high levels of dust, exceeding 1,000 micrograms per cubic meter of air. Health experts advise caution, especially for vulnerable groups who can be impacted by the elevated levels of airborne particles.

Planes were grounded at Heraklion’s main airport and at least two flights were forced to divert after visibility dropped to around 1,000 metres, a level considered unsafe for landing. Fight delays are expected to continue while the dust remains.

A truck was flipped by the storm in the coastal area of Pachia Ammos on Crete. Two pine trees were uprooted by the storm while two greenhouses were damaged and a wall at a ceramics factory collapsed from the force. The first houses along the old town in Ierapetra had huge waves surge over them when strong southerly winds affected coastal conditions.

Authorities say the dust wave is expected to clear within a day.

Photo: AFP via Getty Images.

Greece has enforced emergy labour measures in effect from Wednesday, April 1. Following updated warnings from the National Meteorological Service and consultations with civil protection authorities, the Ministry of Labor and Social Security announced the measures which aim at reducing risks for workers exposed to dangerous conditions.

A mandatory suspension of outdoor work is in place from 6pm to 10pm in Attica, Central Greece, Thessaly — including the Sporades islands — the Peloponnese, the South Aegean, as well as parts of northern Greece.

The measure applies to manual work conducted outdoors and does not apply to sectors such as health care, transportation and public utilities. Employers in these sectors must take all necessary steps to safeguard workers’ health and safety and must provide appropriate protective equipment.

Authorities announced that businesses that fail to comply will face fines of 2,000 euros per employee.

The ministry has also encouraged private-sector employers in affected areas to allow remote work where possible. This will limit travel and will reduce exposure to harsh weather conditions.

Source: Tovima and Daily Mirror

Faithful restricted from Holy Fire Ceremony at Holy Sepulchre Church in Jerusalem

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Faithful restricted from Holy Fire Ceremony at Holy Sepulchre Church in Jerusalem

The presence of the faithful will be restricted at this year’s Holy Fire Ceremony at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre on Holy Saturday. Israeli authorities have maintained the strict security measures they have previously outlined in the Old City of Jerusalem due to the ongoing regional tensions.

This extends to all Holy Week services which will be conducted exclusively without the participation of the faithful and with only the clergy present.

Israeli police have introduced detailed restrictions about access for worshippers and clergy. They have limited the number of Orthodox clergy allowed in the church to 15, and representatives of other Christian denominations will also be present to participate in the ceremony.

Greece is currently communicating with the relevant authorities to ensure a Greek delegation can participate in the service and will follow the strict protocol. Their discussions involve the number of representatives who will be permitted to attend.

International reactions to this restriction include Germany’s Foreign Ministry who has reportedly expressed concern that such measures could further heighten tensions.

Regarding Catholic celebrations, the Israeli police stated: “Following a productive meeting between the Israel Police and Latin Catholic Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, a mutual framework has been established for upcoming Easter ceremonies. Due to the complex security reality of Operation ‘Roaring Lion,’ ceremonies including the ‘Holy Fire’ will be held in a symbolic, limited format.”

The police emphasised the importance of ensuring safety for all involved.

“This coordination ensures that freedom of worship is maintained alongside our shared, primary duty: the protection of human life. In the past few weeks, Iranian missiles and debris have impacted within the Old City. These life-saving restrictions are a direct response to a real and present danger to all worshippers,” they said.

The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, together with the Custody of the Holy Land, confirmed in an official statement that arrangements for Holy Week have been coordinated with authorities. They assured that access for Church representatives has been secured so that services may be conducted properly and the ancient Paschal traditions at the Holy Sepulchre can continue.

Source: Orthodox Times

‘Top dollar’ Easter seafood as Australia-EU deal boosts exports to Europe

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‘Top dollar’ Easter seafood as Australia-EU deal boosts exports to Europe

Australians are being warned to expect higher seafood prices this Easter as demand rises and exports expand under the new Australia-European Union Free Trade Agreement.

Speaking in Adelaide last weekend, Trade Minister Don Farrell said the deal would allow premium South Australian produce, including seafood, to enter European markets tariff-free for the first time in decades, opening up billions of dollars in new trade.

“This new free trade agreement represents about $10 billion worth of new sales in the first year of this agreement,” he said.

Industry leaders say the agreement will allow Australian seafood exporters to diversify into Europe, where demand for high-quality produce remains strong.

At the same time, local retailers warn that prices are rising. Arthur Louca, owner of The Fish Man in South Australia, said Easter seafood demand remains strong, but shoppers should expect around a 20 per cent increase due to supply pressures, including the impact of algal blooms.

“Over Easter we will be paying top dollar but we try to hold our prices,” he said.

Popular Easter choices such as prawns, snapper and King George whiting are expected to remain in high demand, even as prices climb.

Source: The Advertiser

Five Greek microsatellites successfully launched into orbit aboard SpaceX rocket

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Five Greek microsatellites successfully launched into orbit aboard SpaceX rocket

Five Greek microsatellites were successfully launched into orbit on Monday aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from California, marking a significant milestone for the country’s National Microsatellite Program.

The cube-shaped satellites (CubeSats) are designed to test innovative space technologies developed in Greece and were deployed with the support of Exolaunch and D-Orbit.

The mission includes two research satellites, Ermis-1 and Ermis-2, developed by the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens in collaboration with OQ Hellas and other agencies, alongside three experimental satellites — Ermis-3, PeakSat and OptiSat — created by leading Greek universities and companies.

Led by Greece’s Ministry of Digital Governance and AI, the programme is supported by the European Space Agency and funded through the Recovery and Resilience Facility, highlighting Greece’s growing capabilities in space technology and innovation.

Source: AMNA.gr

‘Days ahead may not be easy’: Albanese gives rare national address amid fuel crisis

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‘Days ahead may not be easy’: Albanese gives rare national address amid fuel crisis

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has urged Australians to reduce fuel use by opting for public transport where possible, as the global oil crisis continues to drive high petrol prices.

In a rare nationwide address broadcast across all major networks, Albanese acknowledged the strain on households, saying the situation had made “it hard to be positive”, but encouraged people to continue with daily life.

“Enjoy your Easter, and if you’re hitting the road, don’t take more fuel than you need, just fill up like you normally would. Think of others in your community, in the bush and in critical industries,” he said.

He also called on commuters to switch transport where feasible: “And over coming weeks, if you can switch to catching the train or bus or tram to work, do so. That builds our reserves and it saves fuel for people who have no choice but to drive.”

The government has introduced temporary cost-of-living relief, including halving the fuel excise for three months and removing road user charges for trucking, as part of a broader national fuel action plan agreed with states and territories.

Australia currently holds several weeks’ worth of fuel reserves, and the prime minister stressed the country remains some distance from more severe rationing measures.

While warning that the coming months “may not be easy”, Albanese sought to reassure Australians.

“I can promise that we will do everything we can to protect Australia from the worst of it,” he said.

“These are uncertain times, but I am absolutely certain of this: we will deal with these challenges in the Australian way, working together and looking after each other, as we always have.”

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