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…

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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…

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Skills shortages and unemployment targeted in strong plan

Queenslanders will be better trained for real jobs in a stronger four pillar economy as a result of the Vocational Education and Training (VET) plan released today. Minister for Education, Training and Employment John-Paul Langbroek said the plan detailed how the Queensland Government would be investing $615 million in 2014-2015 in order to address skills…

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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…

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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…

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Kids and clubs continue to Get in the Game in 2014

More Queensland children and their families will be able to get active this year, as round three of the Queensland Government’s flagship Get in the Game initiative opens next month with $21 million in funding from this year’s budget. Minister for Recreation and Sport Steve Dickson said the three-program initiatives were aimed at lowering the…

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Strong reforms ensure a Safe Night Out on the Sunshine Coast

Sunshine Coast families will be able to enjoy a safe night out following the Government’s introduction of a comprehensive package of reforms designed to end alcohol and drug-related violence. Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson said the Government was delivering on its strong plan to end senseless deaths and violence and make Queensland the safest place…

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We’ve listened: Government to support full concessions

Queenslanders who benefit from concession payments will not suffer any reduction in payments as a result of cuts announced in the Federal Budget. Premier Campbell Newman said the State Government had listened to Queenslanders’ concerns and will act. “Pensioners and older Queenslanders have told us that they simply can’t wear the cost of filling the…

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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…

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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,…

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