Tougher test, safer drivers

First results from the new driver licence test reveal a 15 per cent increase in the fail rate following the Queensland Government’s focus on high-risk manoeuvres and zero tolerance to speeding. Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said the new practical test is being piloted across seven sites in Queensland and has been underway…

New active limbs to help kids

More than 130 Queensland children born with a limb deficiency, or who have had limbs amputated, will be able to live more active and fulfilling lives thanks to a new Queensland Government program. Premier Campbell Newman and Health Minister Lawrence Springborg today announced a $7.7 million budget boost for a new Active Limbs4Kids Program for…

Policy delivers seven million free trips

Record numbers of bus, train and ferry passengers are taking advantage of the Queensland Government’s free travel after nine weekly journeys. Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said since the policy was introduced almost two years ago about 78,500 people a week were benefiting. “As part of our strong plan for a brighter future we are delivering real savings for passengers with more than…

Leaseholders to benefit from more land reforms

There will be greater opportunities for local and regional development, economic prosperity will be built and thriving communities promoted after the launch of the second phase of the most significant review of Queensland’s state land in more than a century. Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Andrew Cripps said state land supported every one of…

Jobs and housing to flow from new planning Act

Queensland families will have better access to affordable housing after State Parliament last night passed new legislation that will resolve long-standing issues around infrastructure charges applied by local councils. Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jeff Seeney said the Sustainable Planning (Infrastructure Charges) and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2014 would help…

Children protected by new laws

Queensland children and their families are better protected and tougher monitoring over child sex offenders will be enforced through new laws that were passed in Parliament overnight, despite Labor shamefully voting against them. Police Minister Jack Dempsey said the laws met a key election commitment to revitalise frontline services and would make Queensland families safer,…

Major reforms to boost resources and protect landholders

Queensland landholders will gain improved land access protection , while the resources sector will have red tape slashed through landmark reforms by the Newman Government. Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Andrew Cripps said the Mineral and Energy Resources (Common Provisions) Bill 2014 addressed issues left to escalate under the former Labor Government, including overlapping…