Queensland’s jobs growth three times national average

Today’s ABS labour force figures underline the importance of the Newman Government’s efforts to grow the economy, reduce debt and invest in infrastructure for the future, Treasurer Tim Nicholls says. Mr Nicholls said the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate went up slightly in January to 6.1 per cent, while the more reliable trend rate remained steady…

Reforms ensure safer and more productive worksites

Queensland worksites will be better protected and free of union abuse under work health and safety (WHS) reforms introduced in Parliament today. Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Jarrod Bleijie said the Work Health and Safety and Other Legislation Bill 2014 included much tougher penalties for electrical safety breaches and new rules to prevent union bullying.…

Local housing waiting list down by 40 per cent

New figures released this month reveal the social housing waiting list in the Maroochydore electorate has decreased by 40 per cent since the election of the Newman Government.   Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson said the number of households waiting for social housing assistance in the Maroochydore electorate had been cut to its lowest level…

Statement on the anniversary of the National Apology

Today marks the sixth anniversary of the National Apology to Australia’s Stolen Generations, which acknowledged the wrongs of the past to Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people. The annual National Apology commemorations remind and raise awareness among politicians, policy makers and the Australian public about the significance of the forcible removal policies, their impact…

Queenslanders to have their say on property review

Attorney-General Jarrod Bleijie has released the first two issue papers for a review that will improve how Queenslanders buy, sell and manage property. Mr Bleijie said it delivers on the Newman Government’s commitment to review Property Law in Queensland.  “It is an exciting opportunity for property professionals, bodies corporate, property owners and the wider community…

State Govt takes the legal heat for employees

Police officers, emergency workers, child safety officers and medical staff are among thousands of government workers who will be protected from being sued for doing their duty. Legislation passed by Parliament today will see the State Government provide protection to its employees for civil claims made against them when doing their jobs. Minister Assisting the…

Funding for community ANZAC projects

Communities across Queensland can apply for funding from today for local events, projects and re-enactments to commemorate the centenary of Australia’s involvement in the First World War. Minister Assisting the Premier on the Anzac Centenary Glen Elmes said the grants will provide an opportunity for communities to commemorate the role played by individual citizens or…

Water bottlenecks to be cleared

Construction approvals in south east Queensland will happen quicker and the process will be easier under the Water Supply Services Legislation Amendment Bill that was introduced to parliament today. Energy and Water Supply Minister Mark McArdle said the Bill would enable growth and productivity in construction, delivering on the election promise to grow the sector…

Youth justice reforms crack down on repeat offenders

Overdue reforms targeting repeat juvenile offenders have been introduced to Parliament as part of the Newman Government’s commitment to overhauling the youth justice system. Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Jarrod Bleijie said the Government was getting the balance right in dealing with Queensland’s youth crime problem. “These reforms are tough, but fair and necessary,” Mr…