The State Government has announced a stronger stance against drug and alcohol-fuelled violence, including tougher penalties for offenders and a greater police presence in entertainment precincts. All options must be put on the table for consideration with feedback from Queenslanders, and especially young people, about what approach should be taken to tackle this problem. So…
DetailsOur working draft has now been released for public review from Sunday 8 December 2013 until 7 March 2014. Feedback on the working draft will be used to refine the final plan, which will be released mid-2014. More information and a copy of the draft plan is available online at www.qld.gov.au/queenslandplan. This working draft brings together…
DetailsWhile work is still ongoing at the new Maroochydore Bus Station, the new platforms have been operational from Monday 25th November to facilitate the changes to services as part of the new bus network. I am following up with the Minister about concerns raised about pedestrians crossing between the platforms rather than using the…
DetailsPedestrian safety on Aerodrome Road will be improved thanks to a new signalised pedestrian crossing currently under construction between May Street and Fourth Avenue. Local residents have lobbied for an extra crossing and this a good outcome for the local community who crosses this road to access local shops and eateries. The location was chosen…
DetailsThe State Government is making progress in its commitment to reduce red tape by 20% by 2018 with changes to liquor licencing legislation helping small businesses and supporting our local tourism industry. Tour operators will now be allowed to serve up to two standard alcoholic drinks to their guests without requiring a licence. Low risk…
DetailsThe State Government has recently announced that it will conduct a broad review of our property laws, including the Body Corporate and Community Management Act (BCCM Act). The broad ranging review will look at the Property Law Act, seller disclosure across various pieces of legislation and Body Corporate governance and lot entitlements issues. Earlier this…
DetailsThe State Government has unveiled landmark reforms to revolutionise Queensland’s planning processes. The new policy provides greater clarity for local governments by consolidating in one document, the state interests and policies that councils must consider when preparing or amending local planning schemes, or assessing development applications. Developers now also have a clear guide to…
DetailsVoting will be revolutionised at the next state election under electoral reforms recently introduced in Parliament. Queensland’s electoral system will be modernised and simplified but also better protected, with proof of identity to be required on polling days to prevent voter impersonation. Electronic voting will be made available for people with disabilities and blind…
DetailsVital information on natural disasters and emergencies are now available online at www.qld.gov.au/emergency. This One-Stop Shop approach will provide Queenslanders with easy to access, up to date, consistent information online via a smart phone, tablet or PC, or by calling or visiting a government services counter in their local community. In this case people…
DetailsThe creation of the Queensland’s new building industry watchdog, the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) heralds the start of the most significant reform of the construction industry regulations in more than 20 years. The QBCC will replace the controversial Building Services Authority (BSA) and will be tasked with implementing the Government’s 10 point action plan…
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