Another step in paying off Labor’s debt legacy

The Newman Government has taken another step towards paying down Labor’s legacy of debt, taking advantage of favourable market conditions to further reduce the State’s shareholding in Aurizon. Treasurer Tim Nicholls said the Newman Government was continuing its measured and methodical plan to turn Queensland’s finances around, last night raising $350 million for debt reduction.…

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No more gap year for public tenants

The State Government has moved to tighten up generous public housing rules that left properties vacant for up to a year while tenants took extended holidays or served prison terms. Housing Minister Tim Mander said under Labor’s old rules, tenants could take getaways of up to 12 months without putting their tenancies at risk. “These houses…

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Federal education funding welcomed

Premier Campbell Newman today welcomed the Federal Government’s announcement that Queensland schools would receive $794 million in additional funding over the next four years.“I am delighted Prime Minister Tony Abbott and Minister Christopher Pyne have honoured their election commitment to match Labor’s education funding dollar for dollar,” he said. “The Abbott Government had already committed…

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Toll road website to curb confusion

Paying your toll will be much simpler following the launch of a new website that provides a one-stop shop for information about Queensland toll roads. Assistant Minister for Public Transport Steve Minnikin said the new Queensland Toll Roads website will help visitors to Brisbane and casual toll road users avoid confusion over what they owe…

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New Power Advocate to protect consumers

Queensland energy users’ rights and interests are the focus of a new Queensland energy consumer advocacy body being considered by the Newman Government. Minister for Energy Mark McArdle said several consumer representative groups met last week and had provided in principle agreement to terms of reference and the intent to establish the body by March…

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Committee recommends cycling law overhaul

An overhaul of Queensland cycling rules will include a safe distance provision and increased penalties for breaking road rules, as the Newman Government delivers better planning for safer roads. Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said many of the 68 recommendations put forward by the Transport, Housing and Local Government committee would directly lead…

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Disaster and emergency info just a click away

Queenslanders will have vital information on natural disasters at their fingertips with the launch of a centralised online platform www.qld.gov.au/emergency. Minister for Information Technology Ian Walker said the online Emergency Services and Safety platform means Queenslanders can find vital emergency-related information in one place with the click of a button. “This kind of service is…

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Bridge name recognises community spirit

A local man’s contribution to the Sunshine Coast community was recognised today with the Bradman Avenue bridge over the Maroochy River being renamed in his honour. Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson unveiled the signs at a special ceremony  to mark the renaming of the bridge to Ken Neil Bridge. Ms Simpson congratulated Mr Neil for his…

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Community grants commemorate ANZAC Centenary

The Newman Government has announced $13.5 million for a community grants program, as part of $49.3 million in overall funding for events and activities to commemorate the centenary of the First World War starting next year. Minister Assisting the Premier on Veterans Affairs Glen Elmes said funding would be available for communities across the state…

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