It is so important for children in our region to feel as though they can speak up about what they're passionate about; we want them to become informed and engaged global citizens.

Reminding students that they have a voice, are valued and are cared for will give them a sense of purpose that will prepare them to be engaged citizens in a dynamic society.

It is so important we instil these values in our children when they are at school; investing in them is an investment in our future.

We are investing an unprecedented amount in NSW education at the moment, and I am thrilled to be part of a government providing incredible pathways and opportunities for students right across NSW.

This is more than just bricks and mortar; this is about lifting academic performance and making sure children are reaching their full potential at school.

Education Week celebrates the achievements of public schools, their students, staff and communities.

Events this week have included open days, special assemblies, performances and principals swapping schools.

OUR farming families have enough to worry about during this drought without having to fear for their safety as animal activists seek to cause havoc and spread disease, which is why we introduced tough new laws last month to protect those on the land.

Farmers, feedlot operators and meatworks have the right to feel safe in their businesses and their homes, which is why The Nationals are taking a tough stand against people who want to destroy what we've worked so hard to build.

Together we can send a strong message to farm-invaders.

Sign the petition today by going to www.nswnationals.org.au/stand-with-our-farmers/

THIS week is National Homelessness Week and I'm proud to be part of a government that is leading the charge on this issue.

We are committed to halving rough sleeping by 2025 and these street counts will help with planning and investment to meet this ambitious target.

We are supporting people at risk of homelessness by putting more boots on the ground in the form of assertive outreach teams which engage directly with rough sleepers and help them into stable homes.

The NSW Government's assertive outreach program is achieving great outcomes for some of the most vulnerable people in our state, however, we recognise that homelessness can also be hidden.

Our $1 billion investment includes initiatives to address all forms of homelessness, including programs to increase the supply of social and affordable housing.

Bathurst will be in the first trial street counts in coming months, with a statewide count planned for February 2020.