Typically, private hospitals in regional centres have lower occupancy rates so operate on wafer-thin margins Any erosion in occupancy will be magniﬁed in regional hospitals, likely forcing cuts to services or causing some private hospitals to close entirely. With regional private hospitals come visiting specialists.
Any erosion in occupancy will be magniﬁed in regional hospitals, likely forcing cuts to services or causing some private hospitals to close entirely. With regional private hospitals come visiting specialists. Any tinkering with the rebate that causes a cutback in demand in regional private hospitals will also ﬂow directly to specialists, who will retreat back to the cities denying regional patients local access to the expertise and services they need, and forcing those patients to travel further, and at greater cost, for consultations and treatments
With regional private hospitals come visiting specialists. Any tinkering with the rebate that causes a cutback in demand in regional private hospitals will also ﬂow directly to specialists, who will retreat back to the cities denying regional patients local access to the expertise and services they need, and forcing those patients to travel further, and at greater cost, for consultations and treatments Many regional patients rely on private services for repeat admissions over a course of treatment and for ongoing health conditions
Any tinkering with the rebate that causes a cutback in demand in regional private hospitals will also ﬂow directly to specialists, who will retreat back to the cities denying regional patients local access to the expertise and services they need, and forcing those patients to travel further, and at greater cost, for consultations and treatments Many regional patients rely on private services for repeat admissions over a course of treatment and for ongoing health conditions Those families can ill-afford to lose the beneﬁts they’ve enjoyed for over a decade or see them pared back.
Many regional patients rely on private services for repeat admissions over a course of treatment and for ongoing health conditions Those families can ill-afford to lose the beneﬁts they’ve enjoyed for over a decade or see them pared back. Labor’s spin that people on lower incomes will not be affected by the means test thresholds ($80,000 for singles and $160,000 for couples) does not stack up.
Those families can ill-afford to lose the beneﬁts they’ve enjoyed for over a decade or see them pared back. Labor’s spin that people on lower incomes will not be affected by the means test thresholds ($80,000 for singles and $160,000 for couples) does not stack up. Once the insurance pool shrinks, premiums go up
Labor’s spin that people on lower incomes will not be affected by the means test thresholds ($80,000 for singles and $160,000 for couples) does not stack up. Once the insurance pool shrinks, premiums go up Research by Deloitte shows that 1.6 million people in the government’s target income brackets will dump their private hospital cover, with another 4.3 million downgrading it.
Once the insurance pool shrinks, premiums go up Research by Deloitte shows that 1.6 million people in the government’s target income brackets will dump their private hospital cover, with another 4.3 million downgrading it. This initial exodus will force premiums up an estimated 10% after the ﬁrst year of means testing, putting health insurance beyond the reach of lower income earners and causing a second exodus
Research by Deloitte shows that 1.6 million people in the government’s target income brackets will dump their private hospital cover, with another 4.3 million downgrading it. This initial exodus will force premiums up an estimated 10% after the ﬁrst year of means testing, putting health insurance beyond the reach of lower income earners and causing a second exodus In fact, 5.6 million Australians with private cover earn less than $50,000 a year
This initial exodus will force premiums up an estimated 10% after the ﬁrst year of means testing, putting health insurance beyond the reach of lower income earners and causing a second exodus In fact, 5.6 million Australians with private cover earn less than $50,000 a year They cannot afford those massive premium hikes.
In fact, 5.6 million Australians with private cover earn less than $50,000 a year They cannot afford those massive premium hikes. Deloitte adds that public hospitals will be over-run as more than 845,000 extra admissions pour through public hospital doors.
They cannot afford those massive premium hikes. Deloitte adds that public hospitals will be over-run as more than 845,000 extra admissions pour through public hospital doors. The Nationals will reinstate the private health insurance rebates and reward families who do the right thing in taking responsibility for their own healthcare, thereby saving taxpayers billions in public hospital funding, and freeing more public hospital beds for public patients.
Deloitte adds that public hospitals will be over-run as more than 845,000 extra admissions pour through public hospital doors. The Nationals will reinstate the private health insurance rebates and reward families who do the right thing in taking responsibility for their own healthcare, thereby saving taxpayers billions in public hospital funding, and freeing more public hospital beds for public patients. Medicare
The Nationals will reinstate the private health insurance rebates and reward families who do the right thing in taking responsibility for their own healthcare, thereby saving taxpayers billions in public hospital funding, and freeing more public hospital beds for public patients. Medicare The National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission recommends that:  ‘funding equivalent to national average medical beneﬁts and primary health care service funding, appropriately adjusted for remoteness and health status, be made available for local service provision where populations are under-served.’
Medicare The National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission recommends that:  ‘funding equivalent to national average medical beneﬁts and primary health care service funding, appropriately adjusted for remoteness and health status, be made available for local service provision where populations are under-served.’ This would come to an estimated maximum cost of $143 million.
The National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission recommends that:  ‘funding equivalent to national average medical beneﬁts and primary health care service funding, appropriately adjusted for remoteness and health status, be made available for local service provision where populations are under-served.’ This would come to an estimated maximum cost of $143 million. The Nationals will provide increased ﬁnancial support for doctors who provide health services in regional and remote communities, through increased Medicare rebates and scheduled fees loaded on top of regular Medicare billings, which will increase according to remoteness.
This would come to an estimated maximum cost of $143 million. The Nationals will provide increased ﬁnancial support for doctors who provide health services in regional and remote communities, through increased Medicare rebates and scheduled fees loaded on top of regular Medicare billings, which will increase according to remoteness. We will engage with the relevant medical colleges to determine an appropriate scheduled Medicare fee for particular services delivered in regional and remote Australia
The Nationals will provide increased ﬁnancial support for doctors who provide health services in regional and remote communities, through increased Medicare rebates and scheduled fees loaded on top of regular Medicare billings, which will increase according to remoteness. We will engage with the relevant medical colleges to determine an appropriate scheduled Medicare fee for particular services delivered in regional and remote Australia The ﬁnancial beneﬁts of regional practice will become more apparent and accessible.
We will engage with the relevant medical colleges to determine an appropriate scheduled Medicare fee for particular services delivered in regional and remote Australia The ﬁnancial beneﬁts of regional practice will become more apparent and accessible. This program will include allied health workers and nurses to attract a full range of health professionals to regional areas.
The ﬁnancial beneﬁts of regional practice will become more apparent and accessible. This program will include allied health workers and nurses to attract a full range of health professionals to regional areas. Medicare is too urban-centric and too doctor centric
This program will include allied health workers and nurses to attract a full range of health professionals to regional areas. Medicare is too urban-centric and too doctor centric Medicare beneﬁts per person in capital cities are one-sixth higher than in rural and remote areas
Medicare is too urban-centric and too doctor centric Medicare beneﬁts per person in capital cities are one-sixth higher than in rural and remote areas Medicare access to allied health services is restricted in regional areas that lack GPs.
Medicare beneﬁts per person in capital cities are one-sixth higher than in rural and remote areas Medicare access to allied health services is restricted in regional areas that lack GPs. In areas that have allied health professionals but lack GPs, The Nationals will allow Medicare claims for these services without a doctor’s referral, helping to redress the imbalance in Medicare billings.
Medicare access to allied health services is restricted in regional areas that lack GPs. In areas that have allied health professionals but lack GPs, The Nationals will allow Medicare claims for these services without a doctor’s referral, helping to redress the imbalance in Medicare billings. In government, we will amend the 10-year-old Medicare Rebate rule, which encourages the use of old CT scanners in rural areas
In areas that have allied health professionals but lack GPs, The Nationals will allow Medicare claims for these services without a doctor’s referral, helping to redress the imbalance in Medicare billings. In government, we will amend the 10-year-old Medicare Rebate rule, which encourages the use of old CT scanners in rural areas Our aim is to ensure adequate and safe chemotherapy treatment in rural and regional areas
In government, we will amend the 10-year-old Medicare Rebate rule, which encourages the use of old CT scanners in rural areas Our aim is to ensure adequate and safe chemotherapy treatment in rural and regional areas We support greater access to the Medicare Beneﬁts Scheme for those with a mental illness and further investments in this area and the Headspace and the School Support Program.
Our aim is to ensure adequate and safe chemotherapy treatment in rural and regional areas We support greater access to the Medicare Beneﬁts Scheme for those with a mental illness and further investments in this area and the Headspace and the School Support Program. On gaining government we will a review the ten year rule applying to the Medicare registration of overseas trained doctors, especially those with fellowships, with a view to improving access to doctors in regional and rural areas.
We support greater access to the Medicare Beneﬁts Scheme for those with a mental illness and further investments in this area and the Headspace and the School Support Program. On gaining government we will a review the ten year rule applying to the Medicare registration of overseas trained doctors, especially those with fellowships, with a view to improving access to doctors in regional and rural areas. Regional hospitals
On gaining government we will a review the ten year rule applying to the Medicare registration of overseas trained doctors, especially those with fellowships, with a view to improving access to doctors in regional and rural areas. Regional hospitals Regional hospitals are continually being downgraded to the point that they cannot meet the demands of the communities they serve.
Regional hospitals Regional hospitals are continually being downgraded to the point that they cannot meet the demands of the communities they serve. Most of healthcare delivery operates through state government run bodies, with many decisions for regional areas made by central bureaucracies in capital cities.
Regional hospitals are continually being downgraded to the point that they cannot meet the demands of the communities they serve. Most of healthcare delivery operates through state government run bodies, with many decisions for regional areas made by central bureaucracies in capital cities. The Nationals will provide guaranteed service levels for key regional hospitals in such ﬁelds as maternity, mental health, accident and emergency and public dentistry.
Most of healthcare delivery operates through state government run bodies, with many decisions for regional areas made by central bureaucracies in capital cities. The Nationals will provide guaranteed service levels for key regional hospitals in such ﬁelds as maternity, mental health, accident and emergency and public dentistry. We will establish Local Hospital Boards for the larger public hospitals, as well as for groups of smaller hospitals, for those communities that desire them
The Nationals will provide guaranteed service levels for key regional hospitals in such ﬁelds as maternity, mental health, accident and emergency and public dentistry. We will establish Local Hospital Boards for the larger public hospitals, as well as for groups of smaller hospitals, for those communities that desire them These Local Hospital Boards will ensure that local hospitals meet local needs.
We will establish Local Hospital Boards for the larger public hospitals, as well as for groups of smaller hospitals, for those communities that desire them These Local Hospital Boards will ensure that local hospitals meet local needs. They will be funded directly by the Commonwealth and accountable to their community
These Local Hospital Boards will ensure that local hospitals meet local needs. They will be funded directly by the Commonwealth and accountable to their community Under our plan, communities will be provided with information on how their local hospitals are performing and the ability to achieve the outcomes they want.
They will be funded directly by the Commonwealth and accountable to their community Under our plan, communities will be provided with information on how their local hospitals are performing and the ability to achieve the outcomes they want. The Nationals will redirect the money for super clinics to develop outpatient services attached to, or within, public hospitals
Under our plan, communities will be provided with information on how their local hospitals are performing and the ability to achieve the outcomes they want. The Nationals will redirect the money for super clinics to develop outpatient services attached to, or within, public hospitals Most regional and rural hospitals do not have outpatient clinics like those run by metropolitan teaching hospitals for many years.
The Nationals will redirect the money for super clinics to develop outpatient services attached to, or within, public hospitals Most regional and rural hospitals do not have outpatient clinics like those run by metropolitan teaching hospitals for many years. We will increase the number of paid trainee positions, internships and residencies in regional hospitals.
Most regional and rural hospitals do not have outpatient clinics like those run by metropolitan teaching hospitals for many years. We will increase the number of paid trainee positions, internships and residencies in regional hospitals. The Nationals will not support policies that lead to the closure of regional hospitals
We will increase the number of paid trainee positions, internships and residencies in regional hospitals. The Nationals will not support policies that lead to the closure of regional hospitals We will seek to reverse closures imposed by the Labor Government.
The Nationals will not support policies that lead to the closure of regional hospitals We will seek to reverse closures imposed by the Labor Government. Care of the elderly
We will seek to reverse closures imposed by the Labor Government. Care of the elderly The Nationals will provide funding for more aged care beds in regional areas
Care of the elderly The Nationals will provide funding for more aged care beds in regional areas The same emphasis on funding and performance as proposed for regional hospitals will apply to aged care facilities.
The Nationals will provide funding for more aged care beds in regional areas The same emphasis on funding and performance as proposed for regional hospitals will apply to aged care facilities. Incentives will be provided for regional health professionals to broaden their skills to provide expert care of the elderly.
The same emphasis on funding and performance as proposed for regional hospitals will apply to aged care facilities. Incentives will be provided for regional health professionals to broaden their skills to provide expert care of the elderly. The Nationals’ policy to empower local communities will ensure maximum co-operation and efﬁciencies between government and nongovernment organisations.
Incentives will be provided for regional health professionals to broaden their skills to provide expert care of the elderly. The Nationals’ policy to empower local communities will ensure maximum co-operation and efﬁciencies between government and nongovernment organisations. We will introduce funding for aged care beds under similar arrangements for hospitals by establishing a new system where federal and state funding is pooled into a single fund for each region that is managed at the regional level.
The Nationals’ policy to empower local communities will ensure maximum co-operation and efﬁciencies between government and nongovernment organisations. We will introduce funding for aged care beds under similar arrangements for hospitals by establishing a new system where federal and state funding is pooled into a single fund for each region that is managed at the regional level. This way community needs can best be identiﬁed and acted upon, and locals will own the outcomes of priorities and decisions.
We will introduce funding for aged care beds under similar arrangements for hospitals by establishing a new system where federal and state funding is pooled into a single fund for each region that is managed at the regional level. This way community needs can best be identiﬁed and acted upon, and locals will own the outcomes of priorities and decisions. Targeted funding for regional health infrastructure
This way community needs can best be identiﬁed and acted upon, and locals will own the outcomes of priorities and decisions. Targeted funding for regional health infrastructure The Nationals will establish a targeted regional health fund as part of our fair share commitment, providing funds for new regional health services, including incentives to attract and retain healthcare professionals in the regions.
Targeted funding for regional health infrastructure The Nationals will establish a targeted regional health fund as part of our fair share commitment, providing funds for new regional health services, including incentives to attract and retain healthcare professionals in the regions. We will ensure that funding for regional health priorities is permanent and ‘ring-fenced’
The Nationals will establish a targeted regional health fund as part of our fair share commitment, providing funds for new regional health services, including incentives to attract and retain healthcare professionals in the regions. We will ensure that funding for regional health priorities is permanent and ‘ring-fenced’ Regional health practitioners will be able to rely on funding support.
We will ensure that funding for regional health priorities is permanent and ‘ring-fenced’ Regional health practitioners will be able to rely on funding support. We will extend the funding to the Practice Incentive Program After-Hours Incentive Scheme in its current form, until the operation of Medicare Locals is properly understood.
Regional health practitioners will be able to rely on funding support. We will extend the funding to the Practice Incentive Program After-Hours Incentive Scheme in its current form, until the operation of Medicare Locals is properly understood. In government, we will examine the operational and budget implications of funding the cost of providing country doctors in regional areas where they are already funded by local government.
We will extend the funding to the Practice Incentive Program After-Hours Incentive Scheme in its current form, until the operation of Medicare Locals is properly understood. In government, we will examine the operational and budget implications of funding the cost of providing country doctors in regional areas where they are already funded by local government. We will work towards providing adequate accommodation in regional areas, to support residents with mental illness, and adequate resources to enable the crisis management and ongoing support necessary for independent living.
In government, we will examine the operational and budget implications of funding the cost of providing country doctors in regional areas where they are already funded by local government. We will work towards providing adequate accommodation in regional areas, to support residents with mental illness, and adequate resources to enable the crisis management and ongoing support necessary for independent living. Flexible practice options
We will work towards providing adequate accommodation in regional areas, to support residents with mental illness, and adequate resources to enable the crisis management and ongoing support necessary for independent living. Flexible practice options In a typical regional medical practice, doctors face the stress of managing a small business, as well as their healthcare responsibilities
Flexible practice options In a typical regional medical practice, doctors face the stress of managing a small business, as well as their healthcare responsibilities GPs in regional settings must buy or establish their practice and, when they leave, sell the practice
In a typical regional medical practice, doctors face the stress of managing a small business, as well as their healthcare responsibilities GPs in regional settings must buy or establish their practice and, when they leave, sell the practice This added responsibility discourages many GPs from opening regional practices.
GPs in regional settings must buy or establish their practice and, when they leave, sell the practice This added responsibility discourages many GPs from opening regional practices. Many practitioners prefer to be employees, rather than managers, and to focus their attention on healthcare delivery.
This added responsibility discourages many GPs from opening regional practices. Many practitioners prefer to be employees, rather than managers, and to focus their attention on healthcare delivery. The Nationals will introduce a federal plan to give GPs greater ﬂexibility to practice in areas chronically short of medical professionals
Many practitioners prefer to be employees, rather than managers, and to focus their attention on healthcare delivery. The Nationals will introduce a federal plan to give GPs greater ﬂexibility to practice in areas chronically short of medical professionals The Nationals will take a much more pragmatic approach by giving existing practices capital grants to allow expansion of their space and services
The Nationals will introduce a federal plan to give GPs greater ﬂexibility to practice in areas chronically short of medical professionals The Nationals will take a much more pragmatic approach by giving existing practices capital grants to allow expansion of their space and services This program will provide a broader range of services to regional communities, by creating the case for allied healthcare services, such as pathology and psychology, radiology and pharmaceuticals in practices managed by private providers, divisions of general practice or, if needed, by local government.
The Nationals will take a much more pragmatic approach by giving existing practices capital grants to allow expansion of their space and services This program will provide a broader range of services to regional communities, by creating the case for allied healthcare services, such as pathology and psychology, radiology and pharmaceuticals in practices managed by private providers, divisions of general practice or, if needed, by local government. Healthcare practitioners may, therefore, become employees paid a suitable salary and, thereby, avoid many of the burdens that make regional medicine less attractive.
This program will provide a broader range of services to regional communities, by creating the case for allied healthcare services, such as pathology and psychology, radiology and pharmaceuticals in practices managed by private providers, divisions of general practice or, if needed, by local government. Healthcare practitioners may, therefore, become employees paid a suitable salary and, thereby, avoid many of the burdens that make regional medicine less attractive. Overhaul Regional Incentive Programs
Healthcare practitioners may, therefore, become employees paid a suitable salary and, thereby, avoid many of the burdens that make regional medicine less attractive. Overhaul Regional Incentive Programs The Nationals will hold an immediate review into problems associated with using the Australian Standard Geographical Classiﬁcation-Remoteness Areas (ASGC-RA) map to determine incentive payments paid to doctors who practise in regional Australia.
Overhaul Regional Incentive Programs The Nationals will hold an immediate review into problems associated with using the Australian Standard Geographical Classiﬁcation-Remoteness Areas (ASGC-RA) map to determine incentive payments paid to doctors who practise in regional Australia. As the map allows doctors in a larger regional centre to be paid the same incentive as doctors practising in the smaller towns, we will ensure that any replacement system is based on criteria that more accurately reﬂect the medical needs of individual communities in consultation with the Rural Doctors Association of Australia.
The Nationals will hold an immediate review into problems associated with using the Australian Standard Geographical Classiﬁcation-Remoteness Areas (ASGC-RA) map to determine incentive payments paid to doctors who practise in regional Australia. As the map allows doctors in a larger regional centre to be paid the same incentive as doctors practising in the smaller towns, we will ensure that any replacement system is based on criteria that more accurately reﬂect the medical needs of individual communities in consultation with the Rural Doctors Association of Australia. The plethora of complex programs designed to provide incentives for doctors to take up regional practice lower their effectiveness and skew services against regional areas in favour of outer metropolitan areas.
As the map allows doctors in a larger regional centre to be paid the same incentive as doctors practising in the smaller towns, we will ensure that any replacement system is based on criteria that more accurately reﬂect the medical needs of individual communities in consultation with the Rural Doctors Association of Australia. The plethora of complex programs designed to provide incentives for doctors to take up regional practice lower their effectiveness and skew services against regional areas in favour of outer metropolitan areas. Since 2000, more than 30 separate programs designed to attract doctors to regional Australia have helped boost the numbers of health providers, but have had their effectiveness hindered by red tape, duplication and conﬂicting goals
The plethora of complex programs designed to provide incentives for doctors to take up regional practice lower their effectiveness and skew services against regional areas in favour of outer metropolitan areas. Since 2000, more than 30 separate programs designed to attract doctors to regional Australia have helped boost the numbers of health providers, but have had their effectiveness hindered by red tape, duplication and conﬂicting goals The Nationals will review and simplify these incentive programs to ensure that Medicare systems encourage regional practice
Since 2000, more than 30 separate programs designed to attract doctors to regional Australia have helped boost the numbers of health providers, but have had their effectiveness hindered by red tape, duplication and conﬂicting goals The Nationals will review and simplify these incentive programs to ensure that Medicare systems encourage regional practice We will retain the bonded scholarships program but increase the uptake rate by reducing the bonded duration from ﬁve to three years.
The Nationals will review and simplify these incentive programs to ensure that Medicare systems encourage regional practice We will retain the bonded scholarships program but increase the uptake rate by reducing the bonded duration from ﬁve to three years. We support the retraction or amendment the current 10-year moratorium on provider numbers for Australian-trained medical graduates to achieve greater participation of women in the frontline medical workforce.
We will retain the bonded scholarships program but increase the uptake rate by reducing the bonded duration from ﬁve to three years. We support the retraction or amendment the current 10-year moratorium on provider numbers for Australian-trained medical graduates to achieve greater participation of women in the frontline medical workforce. We will assess the suitability of the Queensland Rural Generalist training program with the aim of a nation-wide rollout of the scheme, as part of the Council of Australian Governments process, to assist in the attraction and retention of health professionals in regional areas by providing a clear career path and ‘specialist’ status for rural GPs.
We support the retraction or amendment the current 10-year moratorium on provider numbers for Australian-trained medical graduates to achieve greater participation of women in the frontline medical workforce. We will assess the suitability of the Queensland Rural Generalist training program with the aim of a nation-wide rollout of the scheme, as part of the Council of Australian Governments process, to assist in the attraction and retention of health professionals in regional areas by providing a clear career path and ‘specialist’ status for rural GPs. We will work with the health services community to provide succession planning for our ageing specialist doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals, by offering incentives to train the next generation of regional healthcare professionals.
We will assess the suitability of the Queensland Rural Generalist training program with the aim of a nation-wide rollout of the scheme, as part of the Council of Australian Governments process, to assist in the attraction and retention of health professionals in regional areas by providing a clear career path and ‘specialist’ status for rural GPs. We will work with the health services community to provide succession planning for our ageing specialist doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals, by offering incentives to train the next generation of regional healthcare professionals. We will ensure rural communities have access to accurate, independent and veriﬁable data on the performance of rural medical education and workforce strategies by introducing comprehensive mandatory reporting,  including:
We will work with the health services community to provide succession planning for our ageing specialist doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals, by offering incentives to train the next generation of regional healthcare professionals. We will ensure rural communities have access to accurate, independent and veriﬁable data on the performance of rural medical education and workforce strategies by introducing comprehensive mandatory reporting,  including: The performance of medical schools in meeting rural medical education and workforce targets;
We will ensure rural communities have access to accurate, independent and veriﬁable data on the performance of rural medical education and workforce strategies by introducing comprehensive mandatory reporting,  including: The performance of medical schools in meeting rural medical education and workforce targets; Statistics on rural medical student enrolments;
The performance of medical schools in meeting rural medical education and workforce targets; Statistics on rural medical student enrolments; Rural medical students’ progress and attrition rates;
Statistics on rural medical student enrolments; Rural medical students’ progress and attrition rates; Rural medical students’ access to pre-vocational and post-vocational medical training, and the destination of medical graduates; and
Rural medical students’ progress and attrition rates; Rural medical students’ access to pre-vocational and post-vocational medical training, and the destination of medical graduates; and We will commission an independent body such as the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, to prepare an annual public report.
Rural medical students’ access to pre-vocational and post-vocational medical training, and the destination of medical graduates; and We will commission an independent body such as the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, to prepare an annual public report. In government, we will support the establishment of a parliamentary inquiry to review the National Registration of Health Professionals [AHPRA], including the following matters:
We will commission an independent body such as the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, to prepare an annual public report. In government, we will support the establishment of a parliamentary inquiry to review the National Registration of Health Professionals [AHPRA], including the following matters: Increased costs;
In government, we will support the establishment of a parliamentary inquiry to review the National Registration of Health Professionals [AHPRA], including the following matters: Increased costs; Efﬁciency of operation and management; and
Increased costs; Efﬁciency of operation and management; and Limitations imposed on the career development of regional health professionals.
Efﬁciency of operation and management; and Limitations imposed on the career development of regional health professionals. Regional Medical Schools
Limitations imposed on the career development of regional health professionals. Regional Medical Schools As part of the Centre of Excellence program established under the Education section of Our Plan, we will work with regional universities to form partnerships in establishing regionally-based medical schools and internships at appropriate regional hospitals.
Regional Medical Schools As part of the Centre of Excellence program established under the Education section of Our Plan, we will work with regional universities to form partnerships in establishing regionally-based medical schools and internships at appropriate regional hospitals. Despite determined efforts by successive governments the geographic mal-distribution of doctors between metropolitan and rural/regional parts of Australia is still signiﬁcantly unbalanced
As part of the Centre of Excellence program established under the Education section of Our Plan, we will work with regional universities to form partnerships in establishing regionally-based medical schools and internships at appropriate regional hospitals. Despite determined efforts by successive governments the geographic mal-distribution of doctors between metropolitan and rural/regional parts of Australia is still signiﬁcantly unbalanced The geographic maldistribution has resulted in chronic shortages of doctors, particularly GPs, in rural and regional areas and continued high dependence on overseas-trained doctors.
Despite determined efforts by successive governments the geographic mal-distribution of doctors between metropolitan and rural/regional parts of Australia is still signiﬁcantly unbalanced The geographic maldistribution has resulted in chronic shortages of doctors, particularly GPs, in rural and regional areas and continued high dependence on overseas-trained doctors. The model of medical education where training takes place in capital cities and in large metropolitan hospitals, with only short stints of service in rural and regional areas, does not address the ongoing undersupply of rural doctors
The geographic maldistribution has resulted in chronic shortages of doctors, particularly GPs, in rural and regional areas and continued high dependence on overseas-trained doctors. The model of medical education where training takes place in capital cities and in large metropolitan hospitals, with only short stints of service in rural and regional areas, does not address the ongoing undersupply of rural doctors The Nationals support the announced intention of Charles Sturt University and La Trobe University to jointly establish a Medical School across the Murray-Darling region of Victoria and New South Wales – to be called the Murray-Darling Medical School (MDMS).
The model of medical education where training takes place in capital cities and in large metropolitan hospitals, with only short stints of service in rural and regional areas, does not address the ongoing undersupply of rural doctors The Nationals support the announced intention of Charles Sturt University and La Trobe University to jointly establish a Medical School across the Murray-Darling region of Victoria and New South Wales – to be called the Murray-Darling Medical School (MDMS). This proposal has the advantage of using the established network of partner universities that would operate the medical school through existing and expanded campus facilities at Bendigo, Orange and Wagga Wagga.
The Nationals support the announced intention of Charles Sturt University and La Trobe University to jointly establish a Medical School across the Murray-Darling region of Victoria and New South Wales – to be called the Murray-Darling Medical School (MDMS). This proposal has the advantage of using the established network of partner universities that would operate the medical school through existing and expanded campus facilities at Bendigo, Orange and Wagga Wagga. In government we will support this initiative, aimed at providing 120 places per year initially, increasing to 180 places in following years, as well as providing teaching infrastructure in hospitals, general practices and community health clinics across the region.
This proposal has the advantage of using the established network of partner universities that would operate the medical school through existing and expanded campus facilities at Bendigo, Orange and Wagga Wagga. In government we will support this initiative, aimed at providing 120 places per year initially, increasing to 180 places in following years, as well as providing teaching infrastructure in hospitals, general practices and community health clinics across the region. With students recruited, trained and then working in the regions as doctors, the capacity of the regions to respond to unique health concerns will be well served.
In government we will support this initiative, aimed at providing 120 places per year initially, increasing to 180 places in following years, as well as providing teaching infrastructure in hospitals, general practices and community health clinics across the region. With students recruited, trained and then working in the regions as doctors, the capacity of the regions to respond to unique health concerns will be well served. This signiﬁcant development can serve as a driver to encourage further investments in regional medical schools across Australia, with a ﬂow on effect to the regions as businesses establish and grow to serve the needs of the medical schools.
With students recruited, trained and then working in the regions as doctors, the capacity of the regions to respond to unique health concerns will be well served. This signiﬁcant development can serve as a driver to encourage further investments in regional medical schools across Australia, with a ﬂow on effect to the regions as businesses establish and grow to serve the needs of the medical schools. Incentives for allied health workers
This signiﬁcant development can serve as a driver to encourage further investments in regional medical schools across Australia, with a ﬂow on effect to the regions as businesses establish and grow to serve the needs of the medical schools. Incentives for allied health workers Many regions lack allied health professionals, such as dentists, nurses, optometrists, psychiatrists and other service providers.
Incentives for allied health workers Many regions lack allied health professionals, such as dentists, nurses, optometrists, psychiatrists and other service providers. The most recent statistics show that the overall number of medical practitioners employed per 100,000 people is 335 in major cities, but only 181 in inner regional areas, 153 in outer regional areas and 148 in remote or very remote areas
Many regions lack allied health professionals, such as dentists, nurses, optometrists, psychiatrists and other service providers. The most recent statistics show that the overall number of medical practitioners employed per 100,000 people is 335 in major cities, but only 181 in inner regional areas, 153 in outer regional areas and 148 in remote or very remote areas There are 59 dentists per 100,000 people in major cities, but only 35 in inner regional, 29 in outer regional, and 20 in remote or very remote areas
The most recent statistics show that the overall number of medical practitioners employed per 100,000 people is 335 in major cities, but only 181 in inner regional areas, 153 in outer regional areas and 148 in remote or very remote areas There are 59 dentists per 100,000 people in major cities, but only 35 in inner regional, 29 in outer regional, and 20 in remote or very remote areas This is in spite of the fact that regional Australians suffer from higher rates of many diseases, more injuries and higher suicide and death rates.
There are 59 dentists per 100,000 people in major cities, but only 35 in inner regional, 29 in outer regional, and 20 in remote or very remote areas This is in spite of the fact that regional Australians suffer from higher rates of many diseases, more injuries and higher suicide and death rates. The lack of allied healthcare is shameful
This is in spite of the fact that regional Australians suffer from higher rates of many diseases, more injuries and higher suicide and death rates. The lack of allied healthcare is shameful Many children in regional Australia miss out on appropriate early detection and treatment, growing up to suffer permanent learning problems.
The lack of allied healthcare is shameful Many children in regional Australia miss out on appropriate early detection and treatment, growing up to suffer permanent learning problems. Similarly, the lack of pathology services in regional areas places an unfair additional burden on those with HIV, hepatitis and other blood borne diseases.
Many children in regional Australia miss out on appropriate early detection and treatment, growing up to suffer permanent learning problems. Similarly, the lack of pathology services in regional areas places an unfair additional burden on those with HIV, hepatitis and other blood borne diseases. The nationals will trial mobile health service models for the dental, minor surgery or other health services for rural and remote communities.
Similarly, the lack of pathology services in regional areas places an unfair additional burden on those with HIV, hepatitis and other blood borne diseases. The nationals will trial mobile health service models for the dental, minor surgery or other health services for rural and remote communities. The National Regional Health Alliance conﬁrms that incentive schemes and scholarship programs instituted under the previous Coalition government are delivering results.
The nationals will trial mobile health service models for the dental, minor surgery or other health services for rural and remote communities. The National Regional Health Alliance conﬁrms that incentive schemes and scholarship programs instituted under the previous Coalition government are delivering results. As part of their review of these processes, The Nationals will broaden the base to attract more dentists, nurses and other allied healthcare professionals to the regions.
The National Regional Health Alliance conﬁrms that incentive schemes and scholarship programs instituted under the previous Coalition government are delivering results. As part of their review of these processes, The Nationals will broaden the base to attract more dentists, nurses and other allied healthcare professionals to the regions. Oral Health Care
As part of their review of these processes, The Nationals will broaden the base to attract more dentists, nurses and other allied healthcare professionals to the regions. Oral Health Care Australians do not experience equity in access or outcomes in the area of oral healthcare
Oral Health Care Australians do not experience equity in access or outcomes in the area of oral healthcare Under Labor there has been a massive disconnect between federal and state oral health policy.
Australians do not experience equity in access or outcomes in the area of oral healthcare Under Labor there has been a massive disconnect between federal and state oral health policy. Many adults and children in regional and remote Australia fall outside the system, lacking ready access to dental services and, therefore, do not seek treatment until they are in a crisis situation.
Under Labor there has been a massive disconnect between federal and state oral health policy. Many adults and children in regional and remote Australia fall outside the system, lacking ready access to dental services and, therefore, do not seek treatment until they are in a crisis situation. This is a particular problem for Indigenous Australians
Many adults and children in regional and remote Australia fall outside the system, lacking ready access to dental services and, therefore, do not seek treatment until they are in a crisis situation. This is a particular problem for Indigenous Australians Fluoridation of water in regional and remote communities remains a high priority and more needs to be spent in the area of oral health promotion.
This is a particular problem for Indigenous Australians Fluoridation of water in regional and remote communities remains a high priority and more needs to be spent in the area of oral health promotion. The Nationals long-term goal is to have a national system through agreements with the states and industry which utilises both public and private sectors to provide appropriate, affordable and timely oral health care to those who need it.
Fluoridation of water in regional and remote communities remains a high priority and more needs to be spent in the area of oral health promotion. The Nationals long-term goal is to have a national system through agreements with the states and industry which utilises both public and private sectors to provide appropriate, affordable and timely oral health care to those who need it. We are committed to assessing the feasibility of a Denticare programme that builds on Medicare.
The Nationals long-term goal is to have a national system through agreements with the states and industry which utilises both public and private sectors to provide appropriate, affordable and timely oral health care to those who need it. We are committed to assessing the feasibility of a Denticare programme that builds on Medicare. In the short- to medium-term we aim to continue to fund ‘Growing Up Smiling’, ensuring that all children can access up to $1,000 of oral health care in a two-year period and fund access to dental services in both the private and public sectors for socially disadvantaged adults who hold a valid entitlement card.
We are committed to assessing the feasibility of a Denticare programme that builds on Medicare. In the short- to medium-term we aim to continue to fund ‘Growing Up Smiling’, ensuring that all children can access up to $1,000 of oral health care in a two-year period and fund access to dental services in both the private and public sectors for socially disadvantaged adults who hold a valid entitlement card. We will give priority to supporting the states in their efforts to improve the current public dental services and expand their ability to provided services beyond basic emergency care.
In the short- to medium-term we aim to continue to fund ‘Growing Up Smiling’, ensuring that all children can access up to $1,000 of oral health care in a two-year period and fund access to dental services in both the private and public sectors for socially disadvantaged adults who hold a valid entitlement card. We will give priority to supporting the states in their efforts to improve the current public dental services and expand their ability to provided services beyond basic emergency care. We will trial mobile health service models for dental care
We will give priority to supporting the states in their efforts to improve the current public dental services and expand their ability to provided services beyond basic emergency care. We will trial mobile health service models for dental care We will broaden the base of the previous Coalition Government’s incentive and scholarship programs to fund the training of more dental professionals and we will examine the expansion of public dental facilities to accommodate an intern year for all dental graduates within the public system.
We will trial mobile health service models for dental care We will broaden the base of the previous Coalition Government’s incentive and scholarship programs to fund the training of more dental professionals and we will examine the expansion of public dental facilities to accommodate an intern year for all dental graduates within the public system. Regional health targets
We will broaden the base of the previous Coalition Government’s incentive and scholarship programs to fund the training of more dental professionals and we will examine the expansion of public dental facilities to accommodate an intern year for all dental graduates within the public system. Regional health targets Australian Health Care Agreements formalise shared funding between the state and federal governments for acute care services in public hospitals
Regional health targets Australian Health Care Agreements formalise shared funding between the state and federal governments for acute care services in public hospitals In the past, these agreements have set up goals for particular groups; and The Nationals will ensure that regional and remote Australians comprise one such group.
Australian Health Care Agreements formalise shared funding between the state and federal governments for acute care services in public hospitals In the past, these agreements have set up goals for particular groups; and The Nationals will ensure that regional and remote Australians comprise one such group. The Nationals will ensure that regional health targets are built into Health Care Agreements, and that the federal government rewards those states and territories that demonstrate improved delivery of health services to regional populations.
In the past, these agreements have set up goals for particular groups; and The Nationals will ensure that regional and remote Australians comprise one such group. The Nationals will ensure that regional health targets are built into Health Care Agreements, and that the federal government rewards those states and territories that demonstrate improved delivery of health services to regional populations. The agreements will also require an increase in the number of regional aged care places and additional programs for youth mental health.
The Nationals will ensure that regional health targets are built into Health Care Agreements, and that the federal government rewards those states and territories that demonstrate improved delivery of health services to regional populations. The agreements will also require an increase in the number of regional aged care places and additional programs for youth mental health. Public-private partnerships
The agreements will also require an increase in the number of regional aged care places and additional programs for youth mental health. Public-private partnerships The Nationals in government will support the extension of the McGrath Foundation public private partnership formula, which provides specialist breast care nurse positions throughout regional Australia.
Public-private partnerships The Nationals in government will support the extension of the McGrath Foundation public private partnership formula, which provides specialist breast care nurse positions throughout regional Australia. This would apply to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and the Movember Foundation, placing 10 specialist prostate nurses throughout regional Australia.
The Nationals in government will support the extension of the McGrath Foundation public private partnership formula, which provides specialist breast care nurse positions throughout regional Australia. This would apply to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and the Movember Foundation, placing 10 specialist prostate nurses throughout regional Australia. Men facing surgery and treatment for prostate cancer can face side effects that have the potential to affect their quality of life, such as incontinence and impotence.
This would apply to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and the Movember Foundation, placing 10 specialist prostate nurses throughout regional Australia. Men facing surgery and treatment for prostate cancer can face side effects that have the potential to affect their quality of life, such as incontinence and impotence. This model of a public-private partnership gives communities ownership over services, allowing them to have conﬁdence in funds making it to local needs and take a hands-on approach in their own communities.
Men facing surgery and treatment for prostate cancer can face side effects that have the potential to affect their quality of life, such as incontinence and impotence. This model of a public-private partnership gives communities ownership over services, allowing them to have conﬁdence in funds making it to local needs and take a hands-on approach in their own communities. In this regard, the McGrath Foundation has proven a successful model
This model of a public-private partnership gives communities ownership over services, allowing them to have conﬁdence in funds making it to local needs and take a hands-on approach in their own communities. In this regard, the McGrath Foundation has proven a successful model The Nationals are aware that rural patients have poorer health outcomes when it comes to prostate cancer, with this cost-effective, resource sharing approach to improving outcomes for these patients and their families, something they desperately want and need.
In this regard, the McGrath Foundation has proven a successful model The Nationals are aware that rural patients have poorer health outcomes when it comes to prostate cancer, with this cost-effective, resource sharing approach to improving outcomes for these patients and their families, something they desperately want and need. Suicide prevention
The Nationals are aware that rural patients have poorer health outcomes when it comes to prostate cancer, with this cost-effective, resource sharing approach to improving outcomes for these patients and their families, something they desperately want and need. Suicide prevention More than 2000 Australians commit suicide each year
Suicide prevention More than 2000 Australians commit suicide each year A disproportionately high number of completed suicides and suicide attempts involve men in rural areas.
More than 2000 Australians commit suicide each year A disproportionately high number of completed suicides and suicide attempts involve men in rural areas. In government we will implement the key recommendations of the Senate Committee Report, ‘The Hidden Toll: Suicide in Australia’, including but not limited to:
A disproportionately high number of completed suicides and suicide attempts involve men in rural areas. In government we will implement the key recommendations of the Senate Committee Report, ‘The Hidden Toll: Suicide in Australia’, including but not limited to: Funding a national suicide prevention and awareness campaign, to run for at least ﬁve years;
In government we will implement the key recommendations of the Senate Committee Report, ‘The Hidden Toll: Suicide in Australia’, including but not limited to: Funding a national suicide prevention and awareness campaign, to run for at least ﬁve years; Funding for projects to reduce access to ‘suicide hotspots’, according to established guidelines;  and
Funding a national suicide prevention and awareness campaign, to run for at least ﬁve years; Funding for projects to reduce access to ‘suicide hotspots’, according to established guidelines;  and Targeted measures to help prevent the incidence of suicide among high-risk groups in regional Australia.
Funding for projects to reduce access to ‘suicide hotspots’, according to established guidelines;  and Targeted measures to help prevent the incidence of suicide among high-risk groups in regional Australia. Free vaccinations for Whooping Cough
Targeted measures to help prevent the incidence of suicide among high-risk groups in regional Australia. Free vaccinations for Whooping Cough The Nationals support the extension of free vaccinations for whooping cough to the grandparents of new born infants in all States and territories.
Free vaccinations for Whooping Cough The Nationals support the extension of free vaccinations for whooping cough to the grandparents of new born infants in all States and territories. Hendra virus/Flying foxes
The Nationals support the extension of free vaccinations for whooping cough to the grandparents of new born infants in all States and territories. Hendra virus/Flying foxes The Nationals support:
Hendra virus/Flying foxes The Nationals support: Improved harmonisation of Federal and State laws and regulations relating to endangered or threatened species when they present serious disruption to human activities or health;
The Nationals support: Improved harmonisation of Federal and State laws and regulations relating to endangered or threatened species when they present serious disruption to human activities or health; Laws and regulations that provide greater ﬂexibility as to the range of measures available to authorities in dealing with serious disruption to human activities or health by ﬂying foxes; and
Improved harmonisation of Federal and State laws and regulations relating to endangered or threatened species when they present serious disruption to human activities or health; Laws and regulations that provide greater ﬂexibility as to the range of measures available to authorities in dealing with serious disruption to human activities or health by ﬂying foxes; and All relevant government research facilities to give urgent priority to vaccine production and distribution to counter the Hendra virus in humans and horses or any other animals.
Laws and regulations that provide greater ﬂexibility as to the range of measures available to authorities in dealing with serious disruption to human activities or health by ﬂying foxes; and All relevant government research facilities to give urgent priority to vaccine production and distribution to counter the Hendra virus in humans and horses or any other animals. Royal Flying Doctor Service
All relevant government research facilities to give urgent priority to vaccine production and distribution to counter the Hendra virus in humans and horses or any other animals. Royal Flying Doctor Service The Nationals will continue to provide ﬁnancial support for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, in recognition of its vital role as the primary mantle of safety covering the vast expanses of regional and remote communities.
Royal Flying Doctor Service The Nationals will continue to provide ﬁnancial support for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, in recognition of its vital role as the primary mantle of safety covering the vast expanses of regional and remote communities. Men’s Sheds
The Nationals will continue to provide ﬁnancial support for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, in recognition of its vital role as the primary mantle of safety covering the vast expanses of regional and remote communities. Men’s Sheds The Nationals support Men’s Sheds and will concentrate the Ministerial responsibility for Men’s Sheds within the Health portfolio.
Men’s Sheds The Nationals support Men’s Sheds and will concentrate the Ministerial responsibility for Men’s Sheds within the Health portfolio. Hearing tests for children
The Nationals support Men’s Sheds and will concentrate the Ministerial responsibility for Men’s Sheds within the Health portfolio. Hearing tests for children The Nationals will introduce compulsory hearing tests for all children enrolling in primary school to assist in the early identiﬁcation of hearing problems.
Hearing tests for children The Nationals will introduce compulsory hearing tests for all children enrolling in primary school to assist in the early identiﬁcation of hearing problems. Pharmaceutical Beneﬁts Scheme
The Nationals will introduce compulsory hearing tests for all children enrolling in primary school to assist in the early identiﬁcation of hearing problems. Pharmaceutical Beneﬁts Scheme In government we will examine the implications of changing the Pharmaceutical Beneﬁts Scheme safety net threshold for single persons to half that applying to couples and families.
Pharmaceutical Beneﬁts Scheme In government we will examine the implications of changing the Pharmaceutical Beneﬁts Scheme safety net threshold for single persons to half that applying to couples and families. Importation of Medical Devises
In government we will examine the implications of changing the Pharmaceutical Beneﬁts Scheme safety net threshold for single persons to half that applying to couples and families. Importation of Medical Devises In government we will apply the same regulation and audits for both importers and Australian Manufacturers of Medical Devices, as well as ensure that the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s conformity audits adhere to ISO 13485 (Standards for Quality Management System on Medical Devices).
Importation of Medical Devises In government we will apply the same regulation and audits for both importers and Australian Manufacturers of Medical Devices, as well as ensure that the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s conformity audits adhere to ISO 13485 (Standards for Quality Management System on Medical Devices). Indigenous Australians– TAKING THEIR RIGHTFUL PLACE IN THE AUSTRALIAN COMMUNITY
In government we will apply the same regulation and audits for both importers and Australian Manufacturers of Medical Devices, as well as ensure that the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s conformity audits adhere to ISO 13485 (Standards for Quality Management System on Medical Devices). Indigenous Australians– TAKING THEIR RIGHTFUL PLACE IN THE AUSTRALIAN COMMUNITY As all Australian citizens, Indigenous Australians are entitled to selfdetermination and the right to pursue economic prosperity and social cohesion free from constraints and prejudice.
Indigenous Australians– TAKING THEIR RIGHTFUL PLACE IN THE AUSTRALIAN COMMUNITY As all Australian citizens, Indigenous Australians are entitled to selfdetermination and the right to pursue economic prosperity and social cohesion free from constraints and prejudice. To enable Indigenous Australians to take responsibility for themselves and their families, The Nationals consider that properly allocated resources must address disadvantage, while respecting the special and unique contribution Indigenous Australians make to our national identity.
As all Australian citizens, Indigenous Australians are entitled to selfdetermination and the right to pursue economic prosperity and social cohesion free from constraints and prejudice. To enable Indigenous Australians to take responsibility for themselves and their families, The Nationals consider that properly allocated resources must address disadvantage, while respecting the special and unique contribution Indigenous Australians make to our national identity. We believe that the Australia Constitution should make reference to Indigenous Australians and we encourage public discussion on changing the preamble to reﬂect the importance of the place Indigenous Australians hold in our nation
To enable Indigenous Australians to take responsibility for themselves and their families, The Nationals consider that properly allocated resources must address disadvantage, while respecting the special and unique contribution Indigenous Australians make to our national identity. We believe that the Australia Constitution should make reference to Indigenous Australians and we encourage public discussion on changing the preamble to reﬂect the importance of the place Indigenous Australians hold in our nation This change should be put formally to the Australian people in a referendum.
We believe that the Australia Constitution should make reference to Indigenous Australians and we encourage public discussion on changing the preamble to reﬂect the importance of the place Indigenous Australians hold in our nation This change should be put formally to the Australian people in a referendum. The Nationals stand with Indigenous leaders in seeking an economic future for Indigenous people
This change should be put formally to the Australian people in a referendum. The Nationals stand with Indigenous leaders in seeking an economic future for Indigenous people Individuals should be able to get on with their lives and businesses without arbitrary intervention by government
The Nationals stand with Indigenous leaders in seeking an economic future for Indigenous people Individuals should be able to get on with their lives and businesses without arbitrary intervention by government For example, in the case of the wild rivers in Cape York, Queensland, we do not believe in taking away the capacity to make a living and support one’s family
Individuals should be able to get on with their lives and businesses without arbitrary intervention by government For example, in the case of the wild rivers in Cape York, Queensland, we do not believe in taking away the capacity to make a living and support one’s family We believe Indigenous leaders, with support from government, should retain control of their assets and use them for economic beneﬁt and cultural support.
For example, in the case of the wild rivers in Cape York, Queensland, we do not believe in taking away the capacity to make a living and support one’s family We believe Indigenous leaders, with support from government, should retain control of their assets and use them for economic beneﬁt and cultural support. Audit of state and territory Indigenous expenditure
We believe Indigenous leaders, with support from government, should retain control of their assets and use them for economic beneﬁt and cultural support. Audit of state and territory Indigenous expenditure Widespread anecdotal evidence indicates that federal funds have not been fully applied for correct purposes, and many Indigenous people have not received the assistance intended, entrenching the misery of vulnerable Australians who deserve better.
Audit of state and territory Indigenous expenditure Widespread anecdotal evidence indicates that federal funds have not been fully applied for correct purposes, and many Indigenous people have not received the assistance intended, entrenching the misery of vulnerable Australians who deserve better. The Nationals will mount an independent national inquiry by the Productivity Commission into the way funds have been applied to Indigenous programs
Widespread anecdotal evidence indicates that federal funds have not been fully applied for correct purposes, and many Indigenous people have not received the assistance intended, entrenching the misery of vulnerable Australians who deserve better. The Nationals will mount an independent national inquiry by the Productivity Commission into the way funds have been applied to Indigenous programs It will seek to ensure national funding structures and funds allocated for Indigenous Australia are effectively delivered.
The Nationals will mount an independent national inquiry by the Productivity Commission into the way funds have been applied to Indigenous programs It will seek to ensure national funding structures and funds allocated for Indigenous Australia are effectively delivered. Federal takeover of Indigenous remote services delivery
It will seek to ensure national funding structures and funds allocated for Indigenous Australia are effectively delivered. Federal takeover of Indigenous remote services delivery Services to Indigenous Australians should be, at least, broadly consistent with those to other Australians in similar circumstances
Federal takeover of Indigenous remote services delivery Services to Indigenous Australians should be, at least, broadly consistent with those to other Australians in similar circumstances The Nationals support full federal control of the remote segment of Indigenous services and programs, to improve coordination and increase transparency in spending.
Services to Indigenous Australians should be, at least, broadly consistent with those to other Australians in similar circumstances The Nationals support full federal control of the remote segment of Indigenous services and programs, to improve coordination and increase transparency in spending. The Nationals in government will place responsibility for coordinating remote Indigenous services within the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet to monitor and fast-track policy initiatives.
The Nationals support full federal control of the remote segment of Indigenous services and programs, to improve coordination and increase transparency in spending. The Nationals in government will place responsibility for coordinating remote Indigenous services within the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet to monitor and fast-track policy initiatives. We will also see that Indigenous policy priorities become an essential component in other mainstream federal policies, programs and services
The Nationals in government will place responsibility for coordinating remote Indigenous services within the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet to monitor and fast-track policy initiatives. We will also see that Indigenous policy priorities become an essential component in other mainstream federal policies, programs and services Biannual reporting to the Prime Minister and Parliament on progress will ensure that setbacks are addressed in a timely manner
We will also see that Indigenous policy priorities become an essential component in other mainstream federal policies, programs and services Biannual reporting to the Prime Minister and Parliament on progress will ensure that setbacks are addressed in a timely manner The accountability of Departmental Secretaries and other key staff will be heightened so that Indigenous policy is taken seriously and undertaken conscientiously.
Biannual reporting to the Prime Minister and Parliament on progress will ensure that setbacks are addressed in a timely manner The accountability of Departmental Secretaries and other key staff will be heightened so that Indigenous policy is taken seriously and undertaken conscientiously. The role of COAG
The accountability of Departmental Secretaries and other key staff will be heightened so that Indigenous policy is taken seriously and undertaken conscientiously. The role of COAG Since 2007, Labor has held numerous Council of Australian Governments (COAG) meetings with the states and the territories on Indigenous disadvantage.
The role of COAG Since 2007, Labor has held numerous Council of Australian Governments (COAG) meetings with the states and the territories on Indigenous disadvantage. Hundreds of pages, large sums of money and many pledges of good intentions have not resulted in any signiﬁcant advancement
Since 2007, Labor has held numerous Council of Australian Governments (COAG) meetings with the states and the territories on Indigenous disadvantage. Hundreds of pages, large sums of money and many pledges of good intentions have not resulted in any signiﬁcant advancement There remains disagreement on how to measure progress and how to identify what progress has actually been made.
Hundreds of pages, large sums of money and many pledges of good intentions have not resulted in any signiﬁcant advancement There remains disagreement on how to measure progress and how to identify what progress has actually been made. The Nationals will ensure proper arrangements are in place for identifying the success or failure of programs and services emanating from COAG.
There remains disagreement on how to measure progress and how to identify what progress has actually been made. The Nationals will ensure proper arrangements are in place for identifying the success or failure of programs and services emanating from COAG. Only then can successes be built upon and failures corrected and redirected.
The Nationals will ensure proper arrangements are in place for identifying the success or failure of programs and services emanating from COAG. Only then can successes be built upon and failures corrected and redirected. Better mainstream services for Indigenous Australians.
Only then can successes be built upon and failures corrected and redirected. Better mainstream services for Indigenous Australians. Many success stories have seen Indigenous Australians gain access to the same services as others in society, establish long-term employment and conduct happy family lives
Better mainstream services for Indigenous Australians. Many success stories have seen Indigenous Australians gain access to the same services as others in society, establish long-term employment and conduct happy family lives They need nothing special from government.
Many success stories have seen Indigenous Australians gain access to the same services as others in society, establish long-term employment and conduct happy family lives They need nothing special from government. However, in many cases, much-needed services are not user-friendly to the needs of Indigenous people
They need nothing special from government. However, in many cases, much-needed services are not user-friendly to the needs of Indigenous people Too often bureaucrats sidestep this issue
However, in many cases, much-needed services are not user-friendly to the needs of Indigenous people Too often bureaucrats sidestep this issue It needs much deeper consideration
Too often bureaucrats sidestep this issue It needs much deeper consideration The Nationals will review the way service delivery organisations interact with Indigenous customers, to ensure their appropriateness and move services into mainstream delivery and away from multiple speciﬁc Indigenous assistanceprograms.
It needs much deeper consideration The Nationals will review the way service delivery organisations interact with Indigenous customers, to ensure their appropriateness and move services into mainstream delivery and away from multiple speciﬁc Indigenous assistanceprograms. Improving Indigenous organisation governance
The Nationals will review the way service delivery organisations interact with Indigenous customers, to ensure their appropriateness and move services into mainstream delivery and away from multiple speciﬁc Indigenous assistanceprograms. Improving Indigenous organisation governance Many outstanding Indigenous organisations have proven their capacity to manage business arrangements at the highest level
Improving Indigenous organisation governance Many outstanding Indigenous organisations have proven their capacity to manage business arrangements at the highest level Others are marked by irregular and inappropriate business practices.
Many outstanding Indigenous organisations have proven their capacity to manage business arrangements at the highest level Others are marked by irregular and inappropriate business practices. The Nationals consider Indigenous disadvantage too important to allow sharp or corrupt practices to divert much-needed funding, programs and services
Others are marked by irregular and inappropriate business practices. The Nationals consider Indigenous disadvantage too important to allow sharp or corrupt practices to divert much-needed funding, programs and services We oppose and will stamp out this culture of malpractice.
The Nationals consider Indigenous disadvantage too important to allow sharp or corrupt practices to divert much-needed funding, programs and services We oppose and will stamp out this culture of malpractice. The Nationals in government will provide support to enable Indigenous organisations to meet compliance obligations
We oppose and will stamp out this culture of malpractice. The Nationals in government will provide support to enable Indigenous organisations to meet compliance obligations For example, registration with the Ofﬁce of the Registrar of Indigenous Organisations (ORIC) will be mandatory.
The Nationals in government will provide support to enable Indigenous organisations to meet compliance obligations For example, registration with the Ofﬁce of the Registrar of Indigenous Organisations (ORIC) will be mandatory. Development of Native Title
For example, registration with the Ofﬁce of the Registrar of Indigenous Organisations (ORIC) will be mandatory. Development of Native Title Under Labor, Native Title is convoluted and uncertain
Development of Native Title Under Labor, Native Title is convoluted and uncertain Its application of Native Title has resulted in frustration, conﬂict and lengthy delays.
Under Labor, Native Title is convoluted and uncertain Its application of Native Title has resulted in frustration, conﬂict and lengthy delays. The Nationals support the calls by respected ﬁgures, such as Noel Pearson, who make a persuasive case for closer examination of the way that Native Title currently operates
Its application of Native Title has resulted in frustration, conﬂict and lengthy delays. The Nationals support the calls by respected ﬁgures, such as Noel Pearson, who make a persuasive case for closer examination of the way that Native Title currently operates Our goal is to reach a new understanding on Native Title, so that government can put in place a fairer system.
The Nationals support the calls by respected ﬁgures, such as Noel Pearson, who make a persuasive case for closer examination of the way that Native Title currently operates Our goal is to reach a new understanding on Native Title, so that government can put in place a fairer system. Strengthening awareness of Indigenous history and culture
Our goal is to reach a new understanding on Native Title, so that government can put in place a fairer system. Strengthening awareness of Indigenous history and culture An awareness of personal Indigenous history and culture is an essential element in becoming a full participant in the Australian community
Strengthening awareness of Indigenous history and culture An awareness of personal Indigenous history and culture is an essential element in becoming a full participant in the Australian community The Nationals will expand the role of the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) to enhance this knowledge base.
An awareness of personal Indigenous history and culture is an essential element in becoming a full participant in the Australian community The Nationals will expand the role of the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) to enhance this knowledge base. The Nationals support a redirection of funds from the Land Councils and other Native Title bodies currently responsible for compiling and storing this information
The Nationals will expand the role of the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) to enhance this knowledge base. The Nationals support a redirection of funds from the Land Councils and other Native Title bodies currently responsible for compiling and storing this information We will centralise this activity, providing better coordination of records for academic and research purposes, while securing other secret and sensitive materials.
The Nationals support a redirection of funds from the Land Councils and other Native Title bodies currently responsible for compiling and storing this information We will centralise this activity, providing better coordination of records for academic and research purposes, while securing other secret and sensitive materials. The Nationals support the insertion of materials into curricula that highlights the positive contributions Indigenous Australians have made to our society
We will centralise this activity, providing better coordination of records for academic and research purposes, while securing other secret and sensitive materials. The Nationals support the insertion of materials into curricula that highlights the positive contributions Indigenous Australians have made to our society The Nationals believe that Indigenous culture and history should be included across the social sciences and taught responsibly and accurately
The Nationals support the insertion of materials into curricula that highlights the positive contributions Indigenous Australians have made to our society The Nationals believe that Indigenous culture and history should be included across the social sciences and taught responsibly and accurately Indigenous housing
The Nationals believe that Indigenous culture and history should be included across the social sciences and taught responsibly and accurately Indigenous housing Indigenous Australians have the same right to quality housing as other Australians.
Indigenous housing Indigenous Australians have the same right to quality housing as other Australians. Progress in re-housing residents of the appalling town camps in Alice Springs is too slow
Indigenous Australians have the same right to quality housing as other Australians. Progress in re-housing residents of the appalling town camps in Alice Springs is too slow Housing is also desperately needed by Indigenous Australians in other remote locations.
Progress in re-housing residents of the appalling town camps in Alice Springs is too slow Housing is also desperately needed by Indigenous Australians in other remote locations. The Nationals maintain that adequate Indigenous housing and infrastructure is the foundation for increasing self-respect and social cohesion
Housing is also desperately needed by Indigenous Australians in other remote locations. The Nationals maintain that adequate Indigenous housing and infrastructure is the foundation for increasing self-respect and social cohesion These lead to improvements in living standards, health and education
The Nationals maintain that adequate Indigenous housing and infrastructure is the foundation for increasing self-respect and social cohesion These lead to improvements in living standards, health and education They will be high priorities for an incoming federal government.
These lead to improvements in living standards, health and education They will be high priorities for an incoming federal government. The Nationals support the goal of personal home ownership for all Australians and Indigenous Australians are no exception.
They will be high priorities for an incoming federal government. The Nationals support the goal of personal home ownership for all Australians and Indigenous Australians are no exception. Better Indigenous health
The Nationals support the goal of personal home ownership for all Australians and Indigenous Australians are no exception. Better Indigenous health The poor health and wellbeing of Indigenous Australians is a major concern and a national priority, with general health and life expectancy lagging substantially behind the Australian average.
Better Indigenous health The poor health and wellbeing of Indigenous Australians is a major concern and a national priority, with general health and life expectancy lagging substantially behind the Australian average. Blindly throwing more money at the issues is not the answer.
The poor health and wellbeing of Indigenous Australians is a major concern and a national priority, with general health and life expectancy lagging substantially behind the Australian average. Blindly throwing more money at the issues is not the answer. The Nationals will implement policies to:
Blindly throwing more money at the issues is not the answer. The Nationals will implement policies to: Provide targeted funding for healthcare and hygiene education;
The Nationals will implement policies to: Provide targeted funding for healthcare and hygiene education; Introduce priority programs to support educational courses for Indigenous students, informing them on health, hygiene, and physical and mental wellbeing;
Provide targeted funding for healthcare and hygiene education; Introduce priority programs to support educational courses for Indigenous students, informing them on health, hygiene, and physical and mental wellbeing; Provide incentives for tertiary-educated Indigenous Australians to return to, or otherwise support, the communities most in need of their assistance; and
Introduce priority programs to support educational courses for Indigenous students, informing them on health, hygiene, and physical and mental wellbeing; Provide incentives for tertiary-educated Indigenous Australians to return to, or otherwise support, the communities most in need of their assistance; and Provide appropriate resources to tackle drug and alcohol problems with programs that encourage and promote heightened self esteem, work participation and education.
Provide incentives for tertiary-educated Indigenous Australians to return to, or otherwise support, the communities most in need of their assistance; and Provide appropriate resources to tackle drug and alcohol problems with programs that encourage and promote heightened self esteem, work participation and education. The Nationals believe that priority, adequate funding and resources must be given to the following areas:
Provide appropriate resources to tackle drug and alcohol problems with programs that encourage and promote heightened self esteem, work participation and education. The Nationals believe that priority, adequate funding and resources must be given to the following areas: Reducing smoking;
The Nationals believe that priority, adequate funding and resources must be given to the following areas: Reducing smoking; Eliminating rheumatic heart disease;
Reducing smoking; Eliminating rheumatic heart disease; Tackling diabetes;
Eliminating rheumatic heart disease; Tackling diabetes; Improving dental care;
Tackling diabetes; Improving dental care; Boosting mental health;
Improving dental care; Boosting mental health; Recognising the Indigenous medical workforce;
Boosting mental health; Recognising the Indigenous medical workforce; Recruiting more Aboriginal health workers;
Recognising the Indigenous medical workforce; Recruiting more Aboriginal health workers; Creating better access to Opal un-sniffable fuel;
Recruiting more Aboriginal health workers; Creating better access to Opal un-sniffable fuel; Prosecuting drug users, dealers and bootleggers;
Creating better access to Opal un-sniffable fuel; Prosecuting drug users, dealers and bootleggers; Regulating alcohol;
Prosecuting drug users, dealers and bootleggers; Regulating alcohol; Introducing social clubs;
Regulating alcohol; Introducing social clubs; Improving Indigenous aged care; and
Introducing social clubs; Improving Indigenous aged care; and Supporting Aboriginal Medical Services, including MBS Item Loading for Remote Area Medical Services, and creating an Indigenous Medical Workforce Agency.
Improving Indigenous aged care; and Supporting Aboriginal Medical Services, including MBS Item Loading for Remote Area Medical Services, and creating an Indigenous Medical Workforce Agency. Extension of welfare quarantining and the Family Responsibility Commission
Supporting Aboriginal Medical Services, including MBS Item Loading for Remote Area Medical Services, and creating an Indigenous Medical Workforce Agency. Extension of welfare quarantining and the Family Responsibility Commission The Nationals support welfare quarantining, as a guarantee that family budgets are spent on essentials, such as food, clothing and medicines, and not on alcohol, gambling or drugs.
Extension of welfare quarantining and the Family Responsibility Commission The Nationals support welfare quarantining, as a guarantee that family budgets are spent on essentials, such as food, clothing and medicines, and not on alcohol, gambling or drugs. Based on the positive results experienced in the Northern Territory and Cape York, there is a compelling case for welfare quarantining to be extended nationwide, starting with NSW and Western Australia.
The Nationals support welfare quarantining, as a guarantee that family budgets are spent on essentials, such as food, clothing and medicines, and not on alcohol, gambling or drugs. Based on the positive results experienced in the Northern Territory and Cape York, there is a compelling case for welfare quarantining to be extended nationwide, starting with NSW and Western Australia. The Nationals do not accept that individual freedom of action includes the right to neglect or abuse one’s children
Based on the positive results experienced in the Northern Territory and Cape York, there is a compelling case for welfare quarantining to be extended nationwide, starting with NSW and Western Australia. The Nationals do not accept that individual freedom of action includes the right to neglect or abuse one’s children No Australian should go hungry, live in unsafe situations or suffer deprivation, as do too many Indigenous children.
The Nationals do not accept that individual freedom of action includes the right to neglect or abuse one’s children No Australian should go hungry, live in unsafe situations or suffer deprivation, as do too many Indigenous children. Extended welfare quarantining will help win this battle over neglect.
No Australian should go hungry, live in unsafe situations or suffer deprivation, as do too many Indigenous children. Extended welfare quarantining will help win this battle over neglect. Improved law and order
Extended welfare quarantining will help win this battle over neglect. Improved law and order The Nationals assert that Indigenous Australians living in remote communities have the same basic right to live in a civil and safe society free from fear and violence
Improved law and order The Nationals assert that Indigenous Australians living in remote communities have the same basic right to live in a civil and safe society free from fear and violence No Indigenous community should lack the policing to maintain civil and safe daily life
The Nationals assert that Indigenous Australians living in remote communities have the same basic right to live in a civil and safe society free from fear and violence No Indigenous community should lack the policing to maintain civil and safe daily life We support permanent policing, where warranted, and will provide the necessary resources to ensure law and order.
No Indigenous community should lack the policing to maintain civil and safe daily life We support permanent policing, where warranted, and will provide the necessary resources to ensure law and order. The Nationals believe that, with targeted programs and human resources, the cycle of crime among young Indigenous people can be broken, and that they can become accountable for their actions
We support permanent policing, where warranted, and will provide the necessary resources to ensure law and order. The Nationals believe that, with targeted programs and human resources, the cycle of crime among young Indigenous people can be broken, and that they can become accountable for their actions Rigorous custodial based work programs will beneﬁt these communities.
The Nationals believe that, with targeted programs and human resources, the cycle of crime among young Indigenous people can be broken, and that they can become accountable for their actions Rigorous custodial based work programs will beneﬁt these communities. Indigenous victims of crime also deserve assistance to overcome the immediate and long-term impacts of crimes committed against them
Rigorous custodial based work programs will beneﬁt these communities. Indigenous victims of crime also deserve assistance to overcome the immediate and long-term impacts of crimes committed against them Victims need to access counselling and assistance, arising from an expanded role of Aboriginal Medical Services in the area of mental health.
Indigenous victims of crime also deserve assistance to overcome the immediate and long-term impacts of crimes committed against them Victims need to access counselling and assistance, arising from an expanded role of Aboriginal Medical Services in the area of mental health. Education and youth
Victims need to access counselling and assistance, arising from an expanded role of Aboriginal Medical Services in the area of mental health. Education and youth Indigenous parents want education for their children
Education and youth Indigenous parents want education for their children They recognise education as the stepping stone to a successful life
Indigenous parents want education for their children They recognise education as the stepping stone to a successful life Schools must also celebrate the presence and contribution of Indigenous students.
They recognise education as the stepping stone to a successful life Schools must also celebrate the presence and contribution of Indigenous students. At present, a few heroic teachers struggle in a demoralising and underresourced system
Schools must also celebrate the presence and contribution of Indigenous students. At present, a few heroic teachers struggle in a demoralising and underresourced system The states and territories need help to deliver adequate educational services.
At present, a few heroic teachers struggle in a demoralising and underresourced system The states and territories need help to deliver adequate educational services. The Nationals will investigate how best further assistance can be provided
The states and territories need help to deliver adequate educational services. The Nationals will investigate how best further assistance can be provided We will also investigate the adequacy of secondary schooling arrangements for Indigenous children in remote locations.
The Nationals will investigate how best further assistance can be provided We will also investigate the adequacy of secondary schooling arrangements for Indigenous children in remote locations. In consultation with community leaders we will examine the practicalities of adult literacy programs, using the education system to bring youth and adults together with the aim of increasing the level of literacy in Indigenous communities.
We will also investigate the adequacy of secondary schooling arrangements for Indigenous children in remote locations. In consultation with community leaders we will examine the practicalities of adult literacy programs, using the education system to bring youth and adults together with the aim of increasing the level of literacy in Indigenous communities. Indigenous economic development
In consultation with community leaders we will examine the practicalities of adult literacy programs, using the education system to bring youth and adults together with the aim of increasing the level of literacy in Indigenous communities. Indigenous economic development The Nationals maintain that economic development is a realistic and achievable goal for Indigenous Australians and essential for long-term employment
Indigenous economic development The Nationals maintain that economic development is a realistic and achievable goal for Indigenous Australians and essential for long-term employment Indigenous Australians often access or control substantial assets, but do not always have the capacity or the resources to develop them to the full beneﬁt.
The Nationals maintain that economic development is a realistic and achievable goal for Indigenous Australians and essential for long-term employment Indigenous Australians often access or control substantial assets, but do not always have the capacity or the resources to develop them to the full beneﬁt. This is particularly true of tourism in Indigenous communities, which beneﬁts both visitors and the Indigenous communities economically and socially.
Indigenous Australians often access or control substantial assets, but do not always have the capacity or the resources to develop them to the full beneﬁt. This is particularly true of tourism in Indigenous communities, which beneﬁts both visitors and the Indigenous communities economically and socially. We will abolish the permit system currently required to travel on roads into communities or to access community land or facilities in the Northern Territory
This is particularly true of tourism in Indigenous communities, which beneﬁts both visitors and the Indigenous communities economically and socially. We will abolish the permit system currently required to travel on roads into communities or to access community land or facilities in the Northern Territory The permit system should, however, be retained for entry to all other Aboriginal lands.
We will abolish the permit system currently required to travel on roads into communities or to access community land or facilities in the Northern Territory The permit system should, however, be retained for entry to all other Aboriginal lands. More needs to be done to identify and encourage economic development opportunities in remote Australia
The permit system should, however, be retained for entry to all other Aboriginal lands. More needs to be done to identify and encourage economic development opportunities in remote Australia To this end, we will consider a special taxation regime for investment in any remote community where the population is sufﬁcient to provide the workforce for any local potential business or commercial project.
More needs to be done to identify and encourage economic development opportunities in remote Australia To this end, we will consider a special taxation regime for investment in any remote community where the population is sufﬁcient to provide the workforce for any local potential business or commercial project. This taxation arrangement would allow an accelerated depreciation schedule for capital investment
To this end, we will consider a special taxation regime for investment in any remote community where the population is sufﬁcient to provide the workforce for any local potential business or commercial project. This taxation arrangement would allow an accelerated depreciation schedule for capital investment Taxation zones would not be speciﬁcally deﬁned
This taxation arrangement would allow an accelerated depreciation schedule for capital investment Taxation zones would not be speciﬁcally deﬁned Nor would accelerated depreciation concessions be automatically available, but would be granted subject to application and on an individual project basis, to encourage private sector investment and economic development.
Taxation zones would not be speciﬁcally deﬁned Nor would accelerated depreciation concessions be automatically available, but would be granted subject to application and on an individual project basis, to encourage private sector investment and economic development. Primary Production– REAPING WHAT WE SOW IN REGIONAL AUSTRALIA
Nor would accelerated depreciation concessions be automatically available, but would be granted subject to application and on an individual project basis, to encourage private sector investment and economic development. Primary Production– REAPING WHAT WE SOW IN REGIONAL AUSTRALIA Australia’s farmers, ﬁshers and foresters are among the most efﬁcient and sustainable in the world, producing clean, green, high quality, reliable, safe and environmentally-friendly food, ﬁbre and timber – each sector the envy of the world.
Primary Production– REAPING WHAT WE SOW IN REGIONAL AUSTRALIA Australia’s farmers, ﬁshers and foresters are among the most efﬁcient and sustainable in the world, producing clean, green, high quality, reliable, safe and environmentally-friendly food, ﬁbre and timber – each sector the envy of the world. Productivity gains, driven by research and development, have enabled Australian producers to stay ahead of our international competitors
Australia’s farmers, ﬁshers and foresters are among the most efﬁcient and sustainable in the world, producing clean, green, high quality, reliable, safe and environmentally-friendly food, ﬁbre and timber – each sector the envy of the world. Productivity gains, driven by research and development, have enabled Australian producers to stay ahead of our international competitors For example, over the 30 years from 1974 to 2004, Australian farms consistently achieved leading average multifactor productivity growth of 2.8% per year.
Productivity gains, driven by research and development, have enabled Australian producers to stay ahead of our international competitors For example, over the 30 years from 1974 to 2004, Australian farms consistently achieved leading average multifactor productivity growth of 2.8% per year. Maintaining that competitive edge is a constant battle and getting harder
For example, over the 30 years from 1974 to 2004, Australian farms consistently achieved leading average multifactor productivity growth of 2.8% per year. Maintaining that competitive edge is a constant battle and getting harder In fact, Australian is losing its edge
Maintaining that competitive edge is a constant battle and getting harder In fact, Australian is losing its edge The alarming decline in agricultural research and development sees Australia being outstripped dollar-for-dollar by many developing countries.
In fact, Australian is losing its edge The alarming decline in agricultural research and development sees Australia being outstripped dollar-for-dollar by many developing countries. Meanwhile, federal Labor’s cuts to agricultural research spending, eliminating the majority of Cooperative Research Centres and the abolition of Land and Water Australia, have been extremely shortsighted.
The alarming decline in agricultural research and development sees Australia being outstripped dollar-for-dollar by many developing countries. Meanwhile, federal Labor’s cuts to agricultural research spending, eliminating the majority of Cooperative Research Centres and the abolition of Land and Water Australia, have been extremely shortsighted. Over the same period, Labor provided research and development funds for agriculture in other countries to the tune of $464 million – an investment that could have been injected into innovation in Australian food production, driving productivity gains here before sharing our intellectual property with others
Meanwhile, federal Labor’s cuts to agricultural research spending, eliminating the majority of Cooperative Research Centres and the abolition of Land and Water Australia, have been extremely shortsighted. Over the same period, Labor provided research and development funds for agriculture in other countries to the tune of $464 million – an investment that could have been injected into innovation in Australian food production, driving productivity gains here before sharing our intellectual property with others In Australia, on current funding levels, and without a resolute vision, the days of cutting-edge farm production are numbered, and a declining trend in productivity growth in many parts of agricultural activity is now becoming common.
Over the same period, Labor provided research and development funds for agriculture in other countries to the tune of $464 million – an investment that could have been injected into innovation in Australian food production, driving productivity gains here before sharing our intellectual property with others In Australia, on current funding levels, and without a resolute vision, the days of cutting-edge farm production are numbered, and a declining trend in productivity growth in many parts of agricultural activity is now becoming common. Research is not just a line item being cut in the Federal Budget, it represents the future
In Australia, on current funding levels, and without a resolute vision, the days of cutting-edge farm production are numbered, and a declining trend in productivity growth in many parts of agricultural activity is now becoming common. Research is not just a line item being cut in the Federal Budget, it represents the future Evidence and experience shows that it takes 30 to 40 years to bring embryonic research ideas to a point where 95% of the country adopts and applies that research.
Research is not just a line item being cut in the Federal Budget, it represents the future Evidence and experience shows that it takes 30 to 40 years to bring embryonic research ideas to a point where 95% of the country adopts and applies that research. Eroding funding for agricultural research and development reduces Australia’s capability to contribute to global food production, reduces Australia’s national science capacity, and exacerbates the global food security problems of tomorrow.
Evidence and experience shows that it takes 30 to 40 years to bring embryonic research ideas to a point where 95% of the country adopts and applies that research. Eroding funding for agricultural research and development reduces Australia’s capability to contribute to global food production, reduces Australia’s national science capacity, and exacerbates the global food security problems of tomorrow. Australia is one of the world’s most important food and ﬁbre producing nations, and we can still increase our productivity signiﬁcantly – as long as we have the right policy framework.
Eroding funding for agricultural research and development reduces Australia’s capability to contribute to global food production, reduces Australia’s national science capacity, and exacerbates the global food security problems of tomorrow. Australia is one of the world’s most important food and ﬁbre producing nations, and we can still increase our productivity signiﬁcantly – as long as we have the right policy framework. The Nationals assert that Australians must be more than self-sufﬁcient in food, we have the capacity to make a valuable contribution to feeding the world’s rapidly expanding population.
Australia is one of the world’s most important food and ﬁbre producing nations, and we can still increase our productivity signiﬁcantly – as long as we have the right policy framework. The Nationals assert that Australians must be more than self-sufﬁcient in food, we have the capacity to make a valuable contribution to feeding the world’s rapidly expanding population. Population pressure is placing increasing demands on global food and ﬁbre and production
The Nationals assert that Australians must be more than self-sufﬁcient in food, we have the capacity to make a valuable contribution to feeding the world’s rapidly expanding population. Population pressure is placing increasing demands on global food and ﬁbre and production Many traditional food and ﬁbre producing nations face urban spread, desertiﬁcation and declining water resources, resulting in less land available for food and ﬁbre production
Population pressure is placing increasing demands on global food and ﬁbre and production Many traditional food and ﬁbre producing nations face urban spread, desertiﬁcation and declining water resources, resulting in less land available for food and ﬁbre production Food and water security are already the deﬁning issues of the 21st century
Many traditional food and ﬁbre producing nations face urban spread, desertiﬁcation and declining water resources, resulting in less land available for food and ﬁbre production Food and water security are already the deﬁning issues of the 21st century Food producers are coming under enormous pressure to increase productivity while using fewer natural resources.
Food and water security are already the deﬁning issues of the 21st century Food producers are coming under enormous pressure to increase productivity while using fewer natural resources. Feeding our nation and fulﬁlling our trade obligations are fundamental government priorities
Food producers are coming under enormous pressure to increase productivity while using fewer natural resources. Feeding our nation and fulﬁlling our trade obligations are fundamental government priorities The Nationals are committed to a new policy direction for the nation in primary production.
Feeding our nation and fulﬁlling our trade obligations are fundamental government priorities The Nationals are committed to a new policy direction for the nation in primary production. Our Plan
The Nationals are committed to a new policy direction for the nation in primary production. Our Plan In a world under growing population pressure and facing a changing climate, our primary producers are more important than ever to the nation’s survival, opportunities and prosperity.
Our Plan In a world under growing population pressure and facing a changing climate, our primary producers are more important than ever to the nation’s survival, opportunities and prosperity. Food and ﬁbre production and water availability are key drivers in shaping international policy for this century
In a world under growing population pressure and facing a changing climate, our primary producers are more important than ever to the nation’s survival, opportunities and prosperity. Food and ﬁbre production and water availability are key drivers in shaping international policy for this century The Nationals’ practical approach to primary production needs will position Australia as an increasingly important player in the world economy.
Food and ﬁbre production and water availability are key drivers in shaping international policy for this century The Nationals’ practical approach to primary production needs will position Australia as an increasingly important player in the world economy. Recognising producers
The Nationals’ practical approach to primary production needs will position Australia as an increasingly important player in the world economy. Recognising producers People in regional Australia often speak of the increasing ‘disconnect’ between the realities, challenges and rewards of primary production and the perception held by urban dwellers of regional life.
Recognising producers People in regional Australia often speak of the increasing ‘disconnect’ between the realities, challenges and rewards of primary production and the perception held by urban dwellers of regional life. This lack of understanding in the cities, where policies are developed, results in unrealistic policies, particularly on environmental matters, which are then imposed on primary producers.
People in regional Australia often speak of the increasing ‘disconnect’ between the realities, challenges and rewards of primary production and the perception held by urban dwellers of regional life. This lack of understanding in the cities, where policies are developed, results in unrealistic policies, particularly on environmental matters, which are then imposed on primary producers. The Nationals maintain that the vital role primary producers play in the economic and social fabric of the nation should be formally recognised in a major government policy statement
This lack of understanding in the cities, where policies are developed, results in unrealistic policies, particularly on environmental matters, which are then imposed on primary producers. The Nationals maintain that the vital role primary producers play in the economic and social fabric of the nation should be formally recognised in a major government policy statement We will audit all environmental legislation at local, state and federal level, determining what may be best undertaken by the states and territories, to streamline regulations and removing unworkable ‘green tape’ so that food production can be expanded, where appropriate.
The Nationals maintain that the vital role primary producers play in the economic and social fabric of the nation should be formally recognised in a major government policy statement We will audit all environmental legislation at local, state and federal level, determining what may be best undertaken by the states and territories, to streamline regulations and removing unworkable ‘green tape’ so that food production can be expanded, where appropriate. Australians also need to be better informed about the basic costs of producing food and ﬁbre, especially the factors inﬂuencing prices, and the very real beneﬁts to consumers of choosing Australian produce.
We will audit all environmental legislation at local, state and federal level, determining what may be best undertaken by the states and territories, to streamline regulations and removing unworkable ‘green tape’ so that food production can be expanded, where appropriate. Australians also need to be better informed about the basic costs of producing food and ﬁbre, especially the factors inﬂuencing prices, and the very real beneﬁts to consumers of choosing Australian produce. We will implement clear ‘truth in labelling laws’ to help buyers make informed purchasing decisions and we will support the Australian food industry in its endeavours to create more innovative and healthier products for consumers.
Australians also need to be better informed about the basic costs of producing food and ﬁbre, especially the factors inﬂuencing prices, and the very real beneﬁts to consumers of choosing Australian produce. We will implement clear ‘truth in labelling laws’ to help buyers make informed purchasing decisions and we will support the Australian food industry in its endeavours to create more innovative and healthier products for consumers. In particular, the industry must be allowed to continue to improve its product without being unfairly hindered by inappropriate labelling laws and ‘health trafﬁc light’ warnings on labelling that confuse and misinform the public.
We will implement clear ‘truth in labelling laws’ to help buyers make informed purchasing decisions and we will support the Australian food industry in its endeavours to create more innovative and healthier products for consumers. In particular, the industry must be allowed to continue to improve its product without being unfairly hindered by inappropriate labelling laws and ‘health trafﬁc light’ warnings on labelling that confuse and misinform the public. We will continue to support regional forestry agreements, as providing resource security, best practice land-use, and sustainability.
In particular, the industry must be allowed to continue to improve its product without being unfairly hindered by inappropriate labelling laws and ‘health trafﬁc light’ warnings on labelling that confuse and misinform the public. We will continue to support regional forestry agreements, as providing resource security, best practice land-use, and sustainability. Foreign ownership – agricultural land, water and food processing
We will continue to support regional forestry agreements, as providing resource security, best practice land-use, and sustainability. Foreign ownership – agricultural land, water and food processing Foreign investment in Australian agriculture has been, and will remain, vital for growth, capital, innovation and the development of new agricultural regions.
Foreign ownership – agricultural land, water and food processing Foreign investment in Australian agriculture has been, and will remain, vital for growth, capital, innovation and the development of new agricultural regions. Yet, too much foreign control over production and supply chains could have dramatic impacts on resources, markets, supply and, ultimately, prices
Foreign investment in Australian agriculture has been, and will remain, vital for growth, capital, innovation and the development of new agricultural regions. Yet, too much foreign control over production and supply chains could have dramatic impacts on resources, markets, supply and, ultimately, prices This price effect could be two-fold: downstream to what farmers are paid and upstream to what consumers pay.
Yet, too much foreign control over production and supply chains could have dramatic impacts on resources, markets, supply and, ultimately, prices This price effect could be two-fold: downstream to what farmers are paid and upstream to what consumers pay. Only Queensland keeps a register of foreign land acquisitions
This price effect could be two-fold: downstream to what farmers are paid and upstream to what consumers pay. Only Queensland keeps a register of foreign land acquisitions These records show that the area of Queensland owned by foreigners actually declined slightly for most of the past decade.
Only Queensland keeps a register of foreign land acquisitions These records show that the area of Queensland owned by foreigners actually declined slightly for most of the past decade. But over the two ﬁnancial years to July 2010, the land owned by foreign  interests tripled to 4.45 million hectares – about 2.6% of the area of the  state
These records show that the area of Queensland owned by foreigners actually declined slightly for most of the past decade. But over the two ﬁnancial years to July 2010, the land owned by foreign  interests tripled to 4.45 million hectares – about 2.6% of the area of the  state Interests in the UK own half of that land, with the US, Germany,  Holland and Switzerland making up the top ﬁve.
But over the two ﬁnancial years to July 2010, the land owned by foreign  interests tripled to 4.45 million hectares – about 2.6% of the area of the  state Interests in the UK own half of that land, with the US, Germany,  Holland and Switzerland making up the top ﬁve. Singapore, Malaysia, China and Korea topped the list in terms of value over 2009-2011, suggesting they are active in the premium city property market.
Interests in the UK own half of that land, with the US, Germany,  Holland and Switzerland making up the top ﬁve. Singapore, Malaysia, China and Korea topped the list in terms of value over 2009-2011, suggesting they are active in the premium city property market. Foreign takeovers of Australian agribusiness have increased 10-fold since the election of the Rudd/Gillard Government
Singapore, Malaysia, China and Korea topped the list in terms of value over 2009-2011, suggesting they are active in the premium city property market. Foreign takeovers of Australian agribusiness have increased 10-fold since the election of the Rudd/Gillard Government Grains, meat, sugar, dairy, dried fruits, wine, food processing and farm supplies have all seen major recent acquisitions.
Foreign takeovers of Australian agribusiness have increased 10-fold since the election of the Rudd/Gillard Government Grains, meat, sugar, dairy, dried fruits, wine, food processing and farm supplies have all seen major recent acquisitions. The Australian Bureau of Statistics’ small voluntary sample suggests the amount of farmland in foreign hands in Australia has only risen by 0.1% over the past 30 years – from 5.9% to 6.0%.
Grains, meat, sugar, dairy, dried fruits, wine, food processing and farm supplies have all seen major recent acquisitions. The Australian Bureau of Statistics’ small voluntary sample suggests the amount of farmland in foreign hands in Australia has only risen by 0.1% over the past 30 years – from 5.9% to 6.0%. People are understandably concerned by the lack of reliable data to guide sensible policies
The Australian Bureau of Statistics’ small voluntary sample suggests the amount of farmland in foreign hands in Australia has only risen by 0.1% over the past 30 years – from 5.9% to 6.0%. People are understandably concerned by the lack of reliable data to guide sensible policies It also means the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) is not fully informed.
People are understandably concerned by the lack of reliable data to guide sensible policies It also means the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) is not fully informed. The Lowy Institute’s 2012 survey shows the depth of feeling in the community about foreign ownership of Australian farmland, with 81% of people opposed and 63% of those vehemently opposed.
It also means the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) is not fully informed. The Lowy Institute’s 2012 survey shows the depth of feeling in the community about foreign ownership of Australian farmland, with 81% of people opposed and 63% of those vehemently opposed. The Nationals have led the way this issue
The Lowy Institute’s 2012 survey shows the depth of feeling in the community about foreign ownership of Australian farmland, with 81% of people opposed and 63% of those vehemently opposed. The Nationals have led the way this issue We are not anti-foreign investment, but people are entitled to know what is going on, and who owns what, in their backyard
The Nationals have led the way this issue We are not anti-foreign investment, but people are entitled to know what is going on, and who owns what, in their backyard Over 2011-12 Nationals leader the Hon Warren Truss chaired the Coalition’s foreign investment taskforce, culminating in the policy discussion paper, Foreign Investment in Australian Agricultural Land and Agribusiness.
We are not anti-foreign investment, but people are entitled to know what is going on, and who owns what, in their backyard Over 2011-12 Nationals leader the Hon Warren Truss chaired the Coalition’s foreign investment taskforce, culminating in the policy discussion paper, Foreign Investment in Australian Agricultural Land and Agribusiness. The paper argues that foreign ownership should be more transparent, proposing that more purchases be scrutinised by the FIRB to ensure they are in the national interest.
Over 2011-12 Nationals leader the Hon Warren Truss chaired the Coalition’s foreign investment taskforce, culminating in the policy discussion paper, Foreign Investment in Australian Agricultural Land and Agribusiness. The paper argues that foreign ownership should be more transparent, proposing that more purchases be scrutinised by the FIRB to ensure they are in the national interest. A national register of foreign acquisitions should be established so that all Australians have access to accurate information on what land and agribusinesses are owned by foreign interests.
The paper argues that foreign ownership should be more transparent, proposing that more purchases be scrutinised by the FIRB to ensure they are in the national interest. A national register of foreign acquisitions should be established so that all Australians have access to accurate information on what land and agribusinesses are owned by foreign interests. Lowering the threshold for FIRB assessment of proposed farm and agribusiness purchases would ensure that more acquisitions are subjected to the national interest test.
A national register of foreign acquisitions should be established so that all Australians have access to accurate information on what land and agribusinesses are owned by foreign interests. Lowering the threshold for FIRB assessment of proposed farm and agribusiness purchases would ensure that more acquisitions are subjected to the national interest test. In the case of farm purchases, the trigger for scrutiny would be reduced from the current $244 million threshold to $15 million
Lowering the threshold for FIRB assessment of proposed farm and agribusiness purchases would ensure that more acquisitions are subjected to the national interest test. In the case of farm purchases, the trigger for scrutiny would be reduced from the current $244 million threshold to $15 million Importantly, we propose to also capture creeping acquisitions
In the case of farm purchases, the trigger for scrutiny would be reduced from the current $244 million threshold to $15 million Importantly, we propose to also capture creeping acquisitions Those buying multiple farms that add up to $15 million, even over many years, would be subjected to the national interest test.
Importantly, we propose to also capture creeping acquisitions Those buying multiple farms that add up to $15 million, even over many years, would be subjected to the national interest test. For agribusiness, the trigger would apply where the investment represents 15% in an agribusiness valued at $244 million, or exceeds $53 million, whichever is the smaller sum.
Those buying multiple farms that add up to $15 million, even over many years, would be subjected to the national interest test. For agribusiness, the trigger would apply where the investment represents 15% in an agribusiness valued at $244 million, or exceeds $53 million, whichever is the smaller sum. All proposed acquisitions by sovereign wealth funds and state-owned enterprises would continue to automatically attract the national interest test.
For agribusiness, the trigger would apply where the investment represents 15% in an agribusiness valued at $244 million, or exceeds $53 million, whichever is the smaller sum. All proposed acquisitions by sovereign wealth funds and state-owned enterprises would continue to automatically attract the national interest test. By lowering these thresholds we can be sure that the national interest test is applied to purchases that currently go through to the keeper
All proposed acquisitions by sovereign wealth funds and state-owned enterprises would continue to automatically attract the national interest test. By lowering these thresholds we can be sure that the national interest test is applied to purchases that currently go through to the keeper We also propose a broader skills-set on the FIRB, including agricultural expertise, and increasing its size to seven members
By lowering these thresholds we can be sure that the national interest test is applied to purchases that currently go through to the keeper We also propose a broader skills-set on the FIRB, including agricultural expertise, and increasing its size to seven members This would enhance the board’s knowledge-base and ability to make informed assessments of the national interest in relation to farm and agribusiness acquisitions.
We also propose a broader skills-set on the FIRB, including agricultural expertise, and increasing its size to seven members This would enhance the board’s knowledge-base and ability to make informed assessments of the national interest in relation to farm and agribusiness acquisitions. Having better checks and balances in place does not threaten foreign investment in agriculture
This would enhance the board’s knowledge-base and ability to make informed assessments of the national interest in relation to farm and agribusiness acquisitions. Having better checks and balances in place does not threaten foreign investment in agriculture In fact, there are more onerous provisions in place for suburban real estate, commercial property and media ownership, to cite a few.
Having better checks and balances in place does not threaten foreign investment in agriculture In fact, there are more onerous provisions in place for suburban real estate, commercial property and media ownership, to cite a few. But it does give us more information and greater transparency to ensure Australia’s national interests are protected and to identify those times when issues of concern must be addressed.
In fact, there are more onerous provisions in place for suburban real estate, commercial property and media ownership, to cite a few. But it does give us more information and greater transparency to ensure Australia’s national interests are protected and to identify those times when issues of concern must be addressed. Use of agricultural land
But it does give us more information and greater transparency to ensure Australia’s national interests are protected and to identify those times when issues of concern must be addressed. Use of agricultural land Mining, agriculture and tourism are Australia’s key industries
Use of agricultural land Mining, agriculture and tourism are Australia’s key industries Forestry is an important import- replacing industry, with our trade deﬁcit in forest products running at about $2 billion a year
Mining, agriculture and tourism are Australia’s key industries Forestry is an important import- replacing industry, with our trade deﬁcit in forest products running at about $2 billion a year Generally our primary industries co-exist peacefully and, in the main, the infrastructure developed for one has provided beneﬁts for the others.
Forestry is an important import- replacing industry, with our trade deﬁcit in forest products running at about $2 billion a year Generally our primary industries co-exist peacefully and, in the main, the infrastructure developed for one has provided beneﬁts for the others. In recent years, however, conﬂict has arisen about mining access to agricultural land and, in particular, prime agricultural land, as well as conﬂict between forestry and agriculture in high rainfall areas.
Generally our primary industries co-exist peacefully and, in the main, the infrastructure developed for one has provided beneﬁts for the others. In recent years, however, conﬂict has arisen about mining access to agricultural land and, in particular, prime agricultural land, as well as conﬂict between forestry and agriculture in high rainfall areas. State Labor governments, especially in Queensland and New South Wales sold-off mining and exploration rights and have granted land use priority over agriculture.
In recent years, however, conﬂict has arisen about mining access to agricultural land and, in particular, prime agricultural land, as well as conﬂict between forestry and agriculture in high rainfall areas. State Labor governments, especially in Queensland and New South Wales sold-off mining and exploration rights and have granted land use priority over agriculture. In the case of forestry, the taxation incentives formerly provided through managed investment schemes gave forestry (and some horticulture schemes) an unfair tax advantage and distorted investment and markets
State Labor governments, especially in Queensland and New South Wales sold-off mining and exploration rights and have granted land use priority over agriculture. In the case of forestry, the taxation incentives formerly provided through managed investment schemes gave forestry (and some horticulture schemes) an unfair tax advantage and distorted investment and markets Forestry now occupies 0.4% of Australia’s farmland, but this could rise to 6.2% by 2020 under the Labor-Greens-Independents’ carbon tax regime, which skews land use.
In the case of forestry, the taxation incentives formerly provided through managed investment schemes gave forestry (and some horticulture schemes) an unfair tax advantage and distorted investment and markets Forestry now occupies 0.4% of Australia’s farmland, but this could rise to 6.2% by 2020 under the Labor-Greens-Independents’ carbon tax regime, which skews land use. These conﬂicts create risks for Australia’s long term food security, water management, social and physical environment, and threaten our biodiversity
Forestry now occupies 0.4% of Australia’s farmland, but this could rise to 6.2% by 2020 under the Labor-Greens-Independents’ carbon tax regime, which skews land use. These conﬂicts create risks for Australia’s long term food security, water management, social and physical environment, and threaten our biodiversity Unless addressed now, these pressures will escalate to unmanageable levels.
These conﬂicts create risks for Australia’s long term food security, water management, social and physical environment, and threaten our biodiversity Unless addressed now, these pressures will escalate to unmanageable levels. While land-use is predominantly (and constitutionally) a matter for the states, The Nationals insist that there is a federal responsibility to develop national solutions in consultation with the states and territories that deal fairly with all parties.
Unless addressed now, these pressures will escalate to unmanageable levels. While land-use is predominantly (and constitutionally) a matter for the states, The Nationals insist that there is a federal responsibility to develop national solutions in consultation with the states and territories that deal fairly with all parties. In government, The Nationals will:
While land-use is predominantly (and constitutionally) a matter for the states, The Nationals insist that there is a federal responsibility to develop national solutions in consultation with the states and territories that deal fairly with all parties. In government, The Nationals will: Re-establish a pre-eminent land and water research body;
In government, The Nationals will: Re-establish a pre-eminent land and water research body; Charge this body with establishing, in consultation with the states and farming and forestry organisations, a national deﬁnition of ‘prime agricultural land’, based on such factors as moisture availability, temperature regime, chemical balance, permeability, surface composition, soil type, susceptibility to ﬂooding, and erosion characteristics, and closeness to urban centres, markets and processing facilities;
Re-establish a pre-eminent land and water research body; Charge this body with establishing, in consultation with the states and farming and forestry organisations, a national deﬁnition of ‘prime agricultural land’, based on such factors as moisture availability, temperature regime, chemical balance, permeability, surface composition, soil type, susceptibility to ﬂooding, and erosion characteristics, and closeness to urban centres, markets and processing facilities; Fund the identiﬁcation of prime agricultural land, working through Geoscience Australia;
Charge this body with establishing, in consultation with the states and farming and forestry organisations, a national deﬁnition of ‘prime agricultural land’, based on such factors as moisture availability, temperature regime, chemical balance, permeability, surface composition, soil type, susceptibility to ﬂooding, and erosion characteristics, and closeness to urban centres, markets and processing facilities; Fund the identiﬁcation of prime agricultural land, working through Geoscience Australia; groundwater will not be polluted, and signiﬁcant surface impacts will not occur;
Fund the identiﬁcation of prime agricultural land, working through Geoscience Australia; groundwater will not be polluted, and signiﬁcant surface impacts will not occur; Ensure that farmers and surrounding communities are fairly compensated when mineral or gas development is allowed on their land;
groundwater will not be polluted, and signiﬁcant surface impacts will not occur; Ensure that farmers and surrounding communities are fairly compensated when mineral or gas development is allowed on their land; Require that all agricultural land subject to surface mining be rehabilitated to the approximate original contours, and to its original or better productivity;
Ensure that farmers and surrounding communities are fairly compensated when mineral or gas development is allowed on their land; Require that all agricultural land subject to surface mining be rehabilitated to the approximate original contours, and to its original or better productivity; Establish a Working Party, including representatives of the mining, forestry, catchment management and farming industries to further deﬁne these conditions and progress their implementation;
Require that all agricultural land subject to surface mining be rehabilitated to the approximate original contours, and to its original or better productivity; Establish a Working Party, including representatives of the mining, forestry, catchment management and farming industries to further deﬁne these conditions and progress their implementation; In conjunction with the farming and forestry industries, identify criteria for land where broad scale forestry ought to be encouraged and include these criteria in catchment management plans;
Establish a Working Party, including representatives of the mining, forestry, catchment management and farming industries to further deﬁne these conditions and progress their implementation; In conjunction with the farming and forestry industries, identify criteria for land where broad scale forestry ought to be encouraged and include these criteria in catchment management plans; Develop equivalent and non-discriminatory incentives that do not artiﬁcially distort markets for investment in agricultural and forestry activities, in consultation with those industries; and
In conjunction with the farming and forestry industries, identify criteria for land where broad scale forestry ought to be encouraged and include these criteria in catchment management plans; Develop equivalent and non-discriminatory incentives that do not artiﬁcially distort markets for investment in agricultural and forestry activities, in consultation with those industries; and Abolish tax deductibility for passive investors in management investment schemes.
Develop equivalent and non-discriminatory incentives that do not artiﬁcially distort markets for investment in agricultural and forestry activities, in consultation with those industries; and Abolish tax deductibility for passive investors in management investment schemes. Coal seam gas development
Abolish tax deductibility for passive investors in management investment schemes. Coal seam gas development Coal seam gas requires a comprehensive policy approach that addresses its environmental, community and economic impacts
Coal seam gas development Coal seam gas requires a comprehensive policy approach that addresses its environmental, community and economic impacts The principles underpinning The Nationals’ approach take a measured, rational and balanced assessment of mining and its management
Coal seam gas requires a comprehensive policy approach that addresses its environmental, community and economic impacts The principles underpinning The Nationals’ approach take a measured, rational and balanced assessment of mining and its management Managed properly, coal seam gas has the potential to revitalise parts of regional Australia, delivering a new economic boom
The principles underpinning The Nationals’ approach take a measured, rational and balanced assessment of mining and its management Managed properly, coal seam gas has the potential to revitalise parts of regional Australia, delivering a new economic boom Poorly managed, it could produce an environmental and social disaster.
Managed properly, coal seam gas has the potential to revitalise parts of regional Australia, delivering a new economic boom Poorly managed, it could produce an environmental and social disaster. The Nationals’ approach to the development of Australia’s coal seam gas resources is based on ﬁve core principles:
Poorly managed, it could produce an environmental and social disaster. The Nationals’ approach to the development of Australia’s coal seam gas resources is based on ﬁve core principles: No coal seam gas development should proceed where it poses a signiﬁcant impact to the quality of groundwater or surface water systems
The Nationals’ approach to the development of Australia’s coal seam gas resources is based on ﬁve core principles: No coal seam gas development should proceed where it poses a signiﬁcant impact to the quality of groundwater or surface water systems It must be absolutely clear that no coal seam gas development should occur unless it is proven safe for the environment;
No coal seam gas development should proceed where it poses a signiﬁcant impact to the quality of groundwater or surface water systems It must be absolutely clear that no coal seam gas development should occur unless it is proven safe for the environment; Prime agricultural land is an increasingly important natural asset
It must be absolutely clear that no coal seam gas development should occur unless it is proven safe for the environment; Prime agricultural land is an increasingly important natural asset It must be protected from activities that destroy its capacity to deliver food security – not only for our nation, but for a hungrier world, for generations to come;
Prime agricultural land is an increasingly important natural asset It must be protected from activities that destroy its capacity to deliver food security – not only for our nation, but for a hungrier world, for generations to come; Coal seam gas development must not occur close to existing residential areas
It must be protected from activities that destroy its capacity to deliver food security – not only for our nation, but for a hungrier world, for generations to come; Coal seam gas development must not occur close to existing residential areas People who have bought homes, with a reasonable expectation of being well away from mining operations, must not be thrown into turmoil by coal seam gas operations springing up on their doorstep;
Coal seam gas development must not occur close to existing residential areas People who have bought homes, with a reasonable expectation of being well away from mining operations, must not be thrown into turmoil by coal seam gas operations springing up on their doorstep; Landowners are entitled to appropriate pecuniary returns for access to their land
People who have bought homes, with a reasonable expectation of being well away from mining operations, must not be thrown into turmoil by coal seam gas operations springing up on their doorstep; Landowners are entitled to appropriate pecuniary returns for access to their land Remuneration for landowners should not be merely compensation; and
Landowners are entitled to appropriate pecuniary returns for access to their land Remuneration for landowners should not be merely compensation; and The regions that deliver much of the wealth from coal seam gas developments deserve to see a fair share of the generated revenues reinvested in their communities
Remuneration for landowners should not be merely compensation; and The regions that deliver much of the wealth from coal seam gas developments deserve to see a fair share of the generated revenues reinvested in their communities There is an opportunity to grow our nation and encourage a lasting legacy from coal seam gas developments.
The regions that deliver much of the wealth from coal seam gas developments deserve to see a fair share of the generated revenues reinvested in their communities There is an opportunity to grow our nation and encourage a lasting legacy from coal seam gas developments. Murray-Darling Basin
There is an opportunity to grow our nation and encourage a lasting legacy from coal seam gas developments. Murray-Darling Basin The Murray-Darling Basin is the nation’s largest food producing resource, accounting for almost 40% of all food in Australia, and is home to 2,000,000 people.
Murray-Darling Basin The Murray-Darling Basin is the nation’s largest food producing resource, accounting for almost 40% of all food in Australia, and is home to 2,000,000 people. Communities in the Basin are under increasing pressure and constant threat, not only from droughts and a drier climate, but from government policies – particularly, Labor’s the ill-advised $4 billion ad hoc water buy-back ventures.
The Murray-Darling Basin is the nation’s largest food producing resource, accounting for almost 40% of all food in Australia, and is home to 2,000,000 people. Communities in the Basin are under increasing pressure and constant threat, not only from droughts and a drier climate, but from government policies – particularly, Labor’s the ill-advised $4 billion ad hoc water buy-back ventures. The Nationals will insist on socio-economic impact statements before any more water is bought within the Basin
Communities in the Basin are under increasing pressure and constant threat, not only from droughts and a drier climate, but from government policies – particularly, Labor’s the ill-advised $4 billion ad hoc water buy-back ventures. The Nationals will insist on socio-economic impact statements before any more water is bought within the Basin The Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry will be notiﬁed prior to any purchase and the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics will then undertake an assessment of the impacts of the buy-backs.
The Nationals will insist on socio-economic impact statements before any more water is bought within the Basin The Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry will be notiﬁed prior to any purchase and the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics will then undertake an assessment of the impacts of the buy-backs. The focus of Murray-Darling Basin policy must be the funding of infrastructure efﬁciencies, both in-system and on-farm, with water entitlement buybacks used only as a last resort
The Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry will be notiﬁed prior to any purchase and the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics will then undertake an assessment of the impacts of the buy-backs. The focus of Murray-Darling Basin policy must be the funding of infrastructure efﬁciencies, both in-system and on-farm, with water entitlement buybacks used only as a last resort We must ensure that more water is returned to the environment, enabling farmers to produce more food and ﬁbre using less water, while protecting the environment, communities and regional economies.
The focus of Murray-Darling Basin policy must be the funding of infrastructure efﬁciencies, both in-system and on-farm, with water entitlement buybacks used only as a last resort We must ensure that more water is returned to the environment, enabling farmers to produce more food and ﬁbre using less water, while protecting the environment, communities and regional economies. Opening northern Australia
We must ensure that more water is returned to the environment, enabling farmers to produce more food and ﬁbre using less water, while protecting the environment, communities and regional economies. Opening northern Australia We actively encourage the growth of agriculture in northern Australia as a potential new food bowl
Opening northern Australia We actively encourage the growth of agriculture in northern Australia as a potential new food bowl With predictions that the climate will become drier in southern Australia and wetter in the north, developing food producing potential there is a must
We actively encourage the growth of agriculture in northern Australia as a potential new food bowl With predictions that the climate will become drier in southern Australia and wetter in the north, developing food producing potential there is a must The Nationals will drive a federal, state and territory partnership to secure sustainable agriculture development in the north as a nation building priority, and a way to resolve the environmental and Indigenous policy issues that currently limit the development of northern Australia.
With predictions that the climate will become drier in southern Australia and wetter in the north, developing food producing potential there is a must The Nationals will drive a federal, state and territory partnership to secure sustainable agriculture development in the north as a nation building priority, and a way to resolve the environmental and Indigenous policy issues that currently limit the development of northern Australia. The Nationals will, with relevant state and territory governments, examine the economic, social and environmental viability of making better use of water in the north, and will renew investigations into the practicality of transporting water southward.
The Nationals will drive a federal, state and territory partnership to secure sustainable agriculture development in the north as a nation building priority, and a way to resolve the environmental and Indigenous policy issues that currently limit the development of northern Australia. The Nationals will, with relevant state and territory governments, examine the economic, social and environmental viability of making better use of water in the north, and will renew investigations into the practicality of transporting water southward. Natural disasters
The Nationals will, with relevant state and territory governments, examine the economic, social and environmental viability of making better use of water in the north, and will renew investigations into the practicality of transporting water southward. Natural disasters The Nationals maintain that some droughts, ﬁres and ﬂoods are truly exceptional, and no land manager can be fully prepared
Natural disasters The Nationals maintain that some droughts, ﬁres and ﬂoods are truly exceptional, and no land manager can be fully prepared Our overriding objective is to enable primary producers to return to full production as quickly as possible.
The Nationals maintain that some droughts, ﬁres and ﬂoods are truly exceptional, and no land manager can be fully prepared Our overriding objective is to enable primary producers to return to full production as quickly as possible. We will continue to support farmers with targeted assistance during a 1-in-25-year drought, major ﬂood or ﬁre
Our overriding objective is to enable primary producers to return to full production as quickly as possible. We will continue to support farmers with targeted assistance during a 1-in-25-year drought, major ﬂood or ﬁre This assurance will include access to household support and interest rate subsidies
We will continue to support farmers with targeted assistance during a 1-in-25-year drought, major ﬂood or ﬁre This assurance will include access to household support and interest rate subsidies We will remove the $500,000 upper cap on interest rate subsidies over ﬁve years.
This assurance will include access to household support and interest rate subsidies We will remove the $500,000 upper cap on interest rate subsidies over ﬁve years. The Nationals in government will have taxation policy examined to see if assistance packages can be provided to agricultural producers with farm mortgages who take up off-farm employment to meet pre-existing farm debt levels.
We will remove the $500,000 upper cap on interest rate subsidies over ﬁve years. The Nationals in government will have taxation policy examined to see if assistance packages can be provided to agricultural producers with farm mortgages who take up off-farm employment to meet pre-existing farm debt levels. We will seek to change the criteria for primary producers in natural disaster-declared areas to allow for the inclusion of funding to repair fences following all declared natural disasters, and that ﬁre prevention and ﬂood mitigation considerations always take precedence over environmental considerations when developing and maintaining structures such as levee banks and land clearing for ﬁre prevention.
The Nationals in government will have taxation policy examined to see if assistance packages can be provided to agricultural producers with farm mortgages who take up off-farm employment to meet pre-existing farm debt levels. We will seek to change the criteria for primary producers in natural disaster-declared areas to allow for the inclusion of funding to repair fences following all declared natural disasters, and that ﬁre prevention and ﬂood mitigation considerations always take precedence over environmental considerations when developing and maintaining structures such as levee banks and land clearing for ﬁre prevention. The Nationals will also invest in practical on-ground preparedness, including, where appropriate, ﬂood and ﬁre mitigation
We will seek to change the criteria for primary producers in natural disaster-declared areas to allow for the inclusion of funding to repair fences following all declared natural disasters, and that ﬁre prevention and ﬂood mitigation considerations always take precedence over environmental considerations when developing and maintaining structures such as levee banks and land clearing for ﬁre prevention. The Nationals will also invest in practical on-ground preparedness, including, where appropriate, ﬂood and ﬁre mitigation We will boost research and development on new plant varieties and management practices to increase farm productivity.
The Nationals will also invest in practical on-ground preparedness, including, where appropriate, ﬂood and ﬁre mitigation We will boost research and development on new plant varieties and management practices to increase farm productivity. We will review the Australian Plague Locust Commission to ensure that its funding and governance are adequate to deal with emerging threats.
We will boost research and development on new plant varieties and management practices to increase farm productivity. We will review the Australian Plague Locust Commission to ensure that its funding and governance are adequate to deal with emerging threats. Research and development
We will review the Australian Plague Locust Commission to ensure that its funding and governance are adequate to deal with emerging threats. Research and development In addition to the challenges described under our Food Security plan, Australia’s primary producers confront many challenges, including climate variability; local and exotic pests, weeds and diseases; increasing consumer demand for fresher, tastier, more sustainable and cheaper food; and increasingly expensive inputs, such as water, fuel, fertilisers, chemicals, labour and energy.
Research and development In addition to the challenges described under our Food Security plan, Australia’s primary producers confront many challenges, including climate variability; local and exotic pests, weeds and diseases; increasing consumer demand for fresher, tastier, more sustainable and cheaper food; and increasingly expensive inputs, such as water, fuel, fertilisers, chemicals, labour and energy. The Nationals recognise the importance of research on climate variability, founded on scientiﬁc merit
In addition to the challenges described under our Food Security plan, Australia’s primary producers confront many challenges, including climate variability; local and exotic pests, weeds and diseases; increasing consumer demand for fresher, tastier, more sustainable and cheaper food; and increasingly expensive inputs, such as water, fuel, fertilisers, chemicals, labour and energy. The Nationals recognise the importance of research on climate variability, founded on scientiﬁc merit We will focus on those research projects with the potential to revolutionise agriculture, ﬁsheries or forestry production.
The Nationals recognise the importance of research on climate variability, founded on scientiﬁc merit We will focus on those research projects with the potential to revolutionise agriculture, ﬁsheries or forestry production. For example, we will accelerate research into perennial cereal crops, particularly wheat, which are disease resistant, high yielding, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, are water efﬁcient, drought resistant, and can produce high protein grain.
We will focus on those research projects with the potential to revolutionise agriculture, ﬁsheries or forestry production. For example, we will accelerate research into perennial cereal crops, particularly wheat, which are disease resistant, high yielding, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, are water efﬁcient, drought resistant, and can produce high protein grain. Further, we will support the efforts of the Australian Wool Industry and others in establishing an orderly phasing out of surgical mulesing and the development of a viable alternative practice for the prevention of breech strike in sheep
For example, we will accelerate research into perennial cereal crops, particularly wheat, which are disease resistant, high yielding, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, are water efﬁcient, drought resistant, and can produce high protein grain. Further, we will support the efforts of the Australian Wool Industry and others in establishing an orderly phasing out of surgical mulesing and the development of a viable alternative practice for the prevention of breech strike in sheep The agricultural sector has the best take up rate of new technologies and production systems of any of Australia’s industries
Further, we will support the efforts of the Australian Wool Industry and others in establishing an orderly phasing out of surgical mulesing and the development of a viable alternative practice for the prevention of breech strike in sheep The agricultural sector has the best take up rate of new technologies and production systems of any of Australia’s industries We will establish an Agricultural Research Fund for universities to encourage innovative new research in the ﬁelds of agricultural science, food security and food production and establish programs to commercialise research project outcomes.
The agricultural sector has the best take up rate of new technologies and production systems of any of Australia’s industries We will establish an Agricultural Research Fund for universities to encourage innovative new research in the ﬁelds of agricultural science, food security and food production and establish programs to commercialise research project outcomes. The Nationals will continue to support the Cooperative Research Centres and the Rural Research and Development Corporations.
We will establish an Agricultural Research Fund for universities to encourage innovative new research in the ﬁelds of agricultural science, food security and food production and establish programs to commercialise research project outcomes. The Nationals will continue to support the Cooperative Research Centres and the Rural Research and Development Corporations. Primary production is one of the very few sectors where commodity groups contribute signiﬁcant resources through transactional levies towards research and development for their sector.
The Nationals will continue to support the Cooperative Research Centres and the Rural Research and Development Corporations. Primary production is one of the very few sectors where commodity groups contribute signiﬁcant resources through transactional levies towards research and development for their sector. We recognise and value these investments and will continue to match them dollar-for-dollar.
Primary production is one of the very few sectors where commodity groups contribute signiﬁcant resources through transactional levies towards research and development for their sector. We recognise and value these investments and will continue to match them dollar-for-dollar. The Nationals support the introduction of legislation to ban the patenting of naturally occurring genes in humans, plants and animals.
We recognise and value these investments and will continue to match them dollar-for-dollar. The Nationals support the introduction of legislation to ban the patenting of naturally occurring genes in humans, plants and animals. We commend the Australian Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety as Australia’s leading centre of research and development in the ﬁeld of farm injury and farmer health
The Nationals support the introduction of legislation to ban the patenting of naturally occurring genes in humans, plants and animals. We commend the Australian Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety as Australia’s leading centre of research and development in the ﬁeld of farm injury and farmer health Its work has enabled signiﬁcant reductions in deaths and serious injury on Australian farms
We commend the Australian Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety as Australia’s leading centre of research and development in the ﬁeld of farm injury and farmer health Its work has enabled signiﬁcant reductions in deaths and serious injury on Australian farms In government, we will ensure its continuation.
Its work has enabled signiﬁcant reductions in deaths and serious injury on Australian farms In government, we will ensure its continuation. Collective export marketing
In government, we will ensure its continuation. Collective export marketing Where producers want collective export marketing, The Nationals will continue to provide support to establish a fair system in order to maximise grower returns.
Collective export marketing Where producers want collective export marketing, The Nationals will continue to provide support to establish a fair system in order to maximise grower returns. Marine park declarations
Where producers want collective export marketing, The Nationals will continue to provide support to establish a fair system in order to maximise grower returns. Marine park declarations We will undertake a science-based review of marine park declarations to ensure decisions over ﬁsheries and the environment take heed of social and economic impacts.
Marine park declarations We will undertake a science-based review of marine park declarations to ensure decisions over ﬁsheries and the environment take heed of social and economic impacts. Under Labor, community consultation has been a sham, science has taken a backseat to ‘feel good’ declarations and there has been a complete about-face on the commitment to minimise socio-economic fallout for commercial and recreational ﬁshers and regional communities.
We will undertake a science-based review of marine park declarations to ensure decisions over ﬁsheries and the environment take heed of social and economic impacts. Under Labor, community consultation has been a sham, science has taken a backseat to ‘feel good’ declarations and there has been a complete about-face on the commitment to minimise socio-economic fallout for commercial and recreational ﬁshers and regional communities. The Nationals support a science-based review of Labor’s arbitrary marine park declarations and, in place of Green dogma, will restore common sense by making a balanced account of the economic, social and environmental considerations in the process.
Under Labor, community consultation has been a sham, science has taken a backseat to ‘feel good’ declarations and there has been a complete about-face on the commitment to minimise socio-economic fallout for commercial and recreational ﬁshers and regional communities. The Nationals support a science-based review of Labor’s arbitrary marine park declarations and, in place of Green dogma, will restore common sense by making a balanced account of the economic, social and environmental considerations in the process. In government, we will not impose any further ﬁshing restrictions on the Great Barrier Reef.
The Nationals support a science-based review of Labor’s arbitrary marine park declarations and, in place of Green dogma, will restore common sense by making a balanced account of the economic, social and environmental considerations in the process. In government, we will not impose any further ﬁshing restrictions on the Great Barrier Reef. Alcohol taxation
In government, we will not impose any further ﬁshing restrictions on the Great Barrier Reef. Alcohol taxation The Nationals do not support a volumetric tax on wine or any changes to the Wine Equalisation Tax that disadvantage the Australian wine industry.
Alcohol taxation The Nationals do not support a volumetric tax on wine or any changes to the Wine Equalisation Tax that disadvantage the Australian wine industry. Low interest loans
The Nationals do not support a volumetric tax on wine or any changes to the Wine Equalisation Tax that disadvantage the Australian wine industry. Low interest loans The Nationals in government will review established and proposed state schemes, including that proposed by the NSW Young Farmers, to provide low interest loans to young farmers
Low interest loans The Nationals in government will review established and proposed state schemes, including that proposed by the NSW Young Farmers, to provide low interest loans to young farmers We will consider establishing a federal scheme to work in conjunction with the states and will provide funding for this purpose.
The Nationals in government will review established and proposed state schemes, including that proposed by the NSW Young Farmers, to provide low interest loans to young farmers We will consider establishing a federal scheme to work in conjunction with the states and will provide funding for this purpose. Collective Bargaining and Codes of Practice
We will consider establishing a federal scheme to work in conjunction with the states and will provide funding for this purpose. Collective Bargaining and Codes of Practice We support the simpliﬁcation of the process to allow primary producers to collectively bargain for the sale of their goods.
Collective Bargaining and Codes of Practice We support the simpliﬁcation of the process to allow primary producers to collectively bargain for the sale of their goods. The Nationals will facilitate the development of a code governing the relationship between suppliers, processors and supermarkets which ensures fair return for all.
We support the simpliﬁcation of the process to allow primary producers to collectively bargain for the sale of their goods. The Nationals will facilitate the development of a code governing the relationship between suppliers, processors and supermarkets which ensures fair return for all. As a matter of priority we will take steps to strengthen the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, and related regulations, to increase the bargaining position of dairy farmers and egg producers relative to the major supermarkets, by:
The Nationals will facilitate the development of a code governing the relationship between suppliers, processors and supermarkets which ensures fair return for all. As a matter of priority we will take steps to strengthen the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, and related regulations, to increase the bargaining position of dairy farmers and egg producers relative to the major supermarkets, by: a) adding an ‘effects’ test to the misuse of market power provision (section 46);
As a matter of priority we will take steps to strengthen the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, and related regulations, to increase the bargaining position of dairy farmers and egg producers relative to the major supermarkets, by: a) adding an ‘effects’ test to the misuse of market power provision (section 46); b) establishing a statutory Small Business Ombudsman to facilitate a low cost tribunal process for farmers;
a) adding an ‘effects’ test to the misuse of market power provision (section 46); b) establishing a statutory Small Business Ombudsman to facilitate a low cost tribunal process for farmers; c) changing unfair contract laws to cover small businesses not just consumers; and
b) establishing a statutory Small Business Ombudsman to facilitate a low cost tribunal process for farmers; c) changing unfair contract laws to cover small businesses not just consumers; and d) supporting the creation of a supermarket code of conduct applying to supermarkets and their purchase of dairy and egg products.
c) changing unfair contract laws to cover small businesses not just consumers; and d) supporting the creation of a supermarket code of conduct applying to supermarkets and their purchase of dairy and egg products. Regional Development– REVITALISING AND POPULATING REGIONAL AUSTRALIA
d) supporting the creation of a supermarket code of conduct applying to supermarkets and their purchase of dairy and egg products. Regional Development– REVITALISING AND POPULATING REGIONAL AUSTRALIA Too often taken for granted, the regions beyond Australia’s major population centres remain the economic engine room of this country, generating the lion’s share of our exports.
Regional Development– REVITALISING AND POPULATING REGIONAL AUSTRALIA Too often taken for granted, the regions beyond Australia’s major population centres remain the economic engine room of this country, generating the lion’s share of our exports. The Nationals assert and expect that with much of Australia’s real wealth generated in the regions it is only ﬁtting that a fairer share of the revenue it creates is returned to the regions.
Too often taken for granted, the regions beyond Australia’s major population centres remain the economic engine room of this country, generating the lion’s share of our exports. The Nationals assert and expect that with much of Australia’s real wealth generated in the regions it is only ﬁtting that a fairer share of the revenue it creates is returned to the regions. At the 2010 federal election, The Nationals, with our Coalition partners, committed to a $1 billion funding guarantee, dedicated to the regions
The Nationals assert and expect that with much of Australia’s real wealth generated in the regions it is only ﬁtting that a fairer share of the revenue it creates is returned to the regions. At the 2010 federal election, The Nationals, with our Coalition partners, committed to a $1 billion funding guarantee, dedicated to the regions This principle has been implemented in new regional funding programs by Liberal-National governments in Western Australia, New South Wales and Victoria.
At the 2010 federal election, The Nationals, with our Coalition partners, committed to a $1 billion funding guarantee, dedicated to the regions This principle has been implemented in new regional funding programs by Liberal-National governments in Western Australia, New South Wales and Victoria. But it’s more than just a fair share principle
This principle has been implemented in new regional funding programs by Liberal-National governments in Western Australia, New South Wales and Victoria. But it’s more than just a fair share principle This new investment must be more than funding programs or bricks and mortar – it must also focus on building human capital in our regions.
But it’s more than just a fair share principle This new investment must be more than funding programs or bricks and mortar – it must also focus on building human capital in our regions. As a nation, we are overdue in recognising the role regional areas can, and must, play in overcoming Australia’s national challenges.
This new investment must be more than funding programs or bricks and mortar – it must also focus on building human capital in our regions. As a nation, we are overdue in recognising the role regional areas can, and must, play in overcoming Australia’s national challenges. Australia’s concentration of population is the highest in the OECD, and is almost double the OECD average
As a nation, we are overdue in recognising the role regional areas can, and must, play in overcoming Australia’s national challenges. Australia’s concentration of population is the highest in the OECD, and is almost double the OECD average A staggering 88% of our population is packed into just 3% of the landmass, mainly small coastal recesses in Sydney and Newcastle, Melbourne, Brisbane and south coast, Adelaide and Perth.
Australia’s concentration of population is the highest in the OECD, and is almost double the OECD average A staggering 88% of our population is packed into just 3% of the landmass, mainly small coastal recesses in Sydney and Newcastle, Melbourne, Brisbane and south coast, Adelaide and Perth. Our regions cry out for more people, services, infrastructure, businesses and employees.
A staggering 88% of our population is packed into just 3% of the landmass, mainly small coastal recesses in Sydney and Newcastle, Melbourne, Brisbane and south coast, Adelaide and Perth. Our regions cry out for more people, services, infrastructure, businesses and employees. It’s time to correct that imbalance.
Our regions cry out for more people, services, infrastructure, businesses and employees. It’s time to correct that imbalance. We need to seriously address this population squeeze and pull the policy levers that can reenergize and build the under-developed 97% of Australia that is regional
It’s time to correct that imbalance. We need to seriously address this population squeeze and pull the policy levers that can reenergize and build the under-developed 97% of Australia that is regional That’s where the real untapped growth potential lies.
We need to seriously address this population squeeze and pull the policy levers that can reenergize and build the under-developed 97% of Australia that is regional That’s where the real untapped growth potential lies. We need a tonic for Australia’s city population ills – a proactive solution to our congested cities, bursting under a national population of just 22 million people.
That’s where the real untapped growth potential lies. We need a tonic for Australia’s city population ills – a proactive solution to our congested cities, bursting under a national population of just 22 million people. Unless we, as a nation, can bring businesses and people to major regional cities and develop new commercial centres, 36 million people by 2050 will grind our cities into perpetual gridlock.
We need a tonic for Australia’s city population ills – a proactive solution to our congested cities, bursting under a national population of just 22 million people. Unless we, as a nation, can bring businesses and people to major regional cities and develop new commercial centres, 36 million people by 2050 will grind our cities into perpetual gridlock. Creating dynamic, stable, secure and viable regional economies is essential for Australia’s future.
Unless we, as a nation, can bring businesses and people to major regional cities and develop new commercial centres, 36 million people by 2050 will grind our cities into perpetual gridlock. Creating dynamic, stable, secure and viable regional economies is essential for Australia’s future. Our Plan
Creating dynamic, stable, secure and viable regional economies is essential for Australia’s future. Our Plan The Nationals will ensure that government does not hinder the development of prosperous regional communities, but actually promotes and motivates them.
Our Plan The Nationals will ensure that government does not hinder the development of prosperous regional communities, but actually promotes and motivates them. Governments cannot redress uneven growth across regions, or solve the uncertainties of international markets
The Nationals will ensure that government does not hinder the development of prosperous regional communities, but actually promotes and motivates them. Governments cannot redress uneven growth across regions, or solve the uncertainties of international markets But the regions have the capacity for much better economic performance, and The Nationals’ practical support for regional economies will help to make them more competitive.
Governments cannot redress uneven growth across regions, or solve the uncertainties of international markets But the regions have the capacity for much better economic performance, and The Nationals’ practical support for regional economies will help to make them more competitive. Our commitment to take real action on sustainable population growth will allow regional Australia to beneﬁt from a targeted skilled migration and regional Australia settlement program.
But the regions have the capacity for much better economic performance, and The Nationals’ practical support for regional economies will help to make them more competitive. Our commitment to take real action on sustainable population growth will allow regional Australia to beneﬁt from a targeted skilled migration and regional Australia settlement program. The Nationals have a proud record of achieving results in regional development
Our commitment to take real action on sustainable population growth will allow regional Australia to beneﬁt from a targeted skilled migration and regional Australia settlement program. The Nationals have a proud record of achieving results in regional development This policy builds on our past achievements and sets a bold new direction for supporting regional development.
The Nationals have a proud record of achieving results in regional development This policy builds on our past achievements and sets a bold new direction for supporting regional development. Its key themes are:
This policy builds on our past achievements and sets a bold new direction for supporting regional development. Its key themes are: Recognition of the need for non-negotiable provision of best practice services and infrastructure for regions;
Its key themes are: Recognition of the need for non-negotiable provision of best practice services and infrastructure for regions; Decentralisation of decision-making for regional planning;
Recognition of the need for non-negotiable provision of best practice services and infrastructure for regions; Decentralisation of decision-making for regional planning; Support for innovation in the regions; and
Decentralisation of decision-making for regional planning; Support for innovation in the regions; and Better funding models to enable regions to achieve their visionary goals.
Support for innovation in the regions; and Better funding models to enable regions to achieve their visionary goals. Our policy promotes the provision of adequate services and ﬁrst-class infrastructure for all regions
Better funding models to enable regions to achieve their visionary goals. Our policy promotes the provision of adequate services and ﬁrst-class infrastructure for all regions It places far greater emphasis on regional innovation and entrepreneurship as the key drivers of successful regional development
Our policy promotes the provision of adequate services and ﬁrst-class infrastructure for all regions It places far greater emphasis on regional innovation and entrepreneurship as the key drivers of successful regional development We will create new opportunities for regionwide, bottom up economic development.
It places far greater emphasis on regional innovation and entrepreneurship as the key drivers of successful regional development We will create new opportunities for regionwide, bottom up economic development. The Nationals recognise the limits of any government’s capacity to control all the forces that drive regional outcomes
We will create new opportunities for regionwide, bottom up economic development. The Nationals recognise the limits of any government’s capacity to control all the forces that drive regional outcomes We realise that the regions themselves must take responsibility for their development strategies
The Nationals recognise the limits of any government’s capacity to control all the forces that drive regional outcomes We realise that the regions themselves must take responsibility for their development strategies We understand that regional development institutions must be properly resourced and then given the freedom to make their own decisions.
We realise that the regions themselves must take responsibility for their development strategies We understand that regional development institutions must be properly resourced and then given the freedom to make their own decisions. Regional policy challenge
We understand that regional development institutions must be properly resourced and then given the freedom to make their own decisions. Regional policy challenge Regional communities face problems neither they, nor government, can directly control
Regional policy challenge Regional communities face problems neither they, nor government, can directly control Some are seasonal, such as drought or ﬂood; some are ongoing structural challenges such as the ageing of the nonmetropolitan population and the loss of young people to the major cities; some are external, such as unstable or corrupt international markets.
Regional communities face problems neither they, nor government, can directly control Some are seasonal, such as drought or ﬂood; some are ongoing structural challenges such as the ageing of the nonmetropolitan population and the loss of young people to the major cities; some are external, such as unstable or corrupt international markets. Many regions outside capital cities have a relatively narrow economic base and lack the scale and resilience of cities, making them open to sudden economic shocks, and the gradual erosion of their skills base.
Some are seasonal, such as drought or ﬂood; some are ongoing structural challenges such as the ageing of the nonmetropolitan population and the loss of young people to the major cities; some are external, such as unstable or corrupt international markets. Many regions outside capital cities have a relatively narrow economic base and lack the scale and resilience of cities, making them open to sudden economic shocks, and the gradual erosion of their skills base. The Nationals support regions in addressing those problems they can directly inﬂuence, and in limiting the adverse effects of others beyond their control.
Many regions outside capital cities have a relatively narrow economic base and lack the scale and resilience of cities, making them open to sudden economic shocks, and the gradual erosion of their skills base. The Nationals support regions in addressing those problems they can directly inﬂuence, and in limiting the adverse effects of others beyond their control. The regions have ageing populations
The Nationals support regions in addressing those problems they can directly inﬂuence, and in limiting the adverse effects of others beyond their control. The regions have ageing populations Their best and brightest young people often leave for the city, and many never return.
The regions have ageing populations Their best and brightest young people often leave for the city, and many never return. Migrants from the city or other countries do not usually settle in the regions that are most in need of new blood and ideas
Their best and brightest young people often leave for the city, and many never return. Migrants from the city or other countries do not usually settle in the regions that are most in need of new blood and ideas The regions that beneﬁt from the inﬂux are generally on the coast or within a couple of hours of the city
Migrants from the city or other countries do not usually settle in the regions that are most in need of new blood and ideas The regions that beneﬁt from the inﬂux are generally on the coast or within a couple of hours of the city Regions further away miss out.
The regions that beneﬁt from the inﬂux are generally on the coast or within a couple of hours of the city Regions further away miss out. In addition, regions traditionally reliant on agriculture have found that their structure is changing
Regions further away miss out. In addition, regions traditionally reliant on agriculture have found that their structure is changing As new industries and enterprises emerge, regional economies must diversify to ensure their future.
In addition, regions traditionally reliant on agriculture have found that their structure is changing As new industries and enterprises emerge, regional economies must diversify to ensure their future. Those furthest away from the capital cities require support to compete for population and industry growth, and to respond to new challenges.
As new industries and enterprises emerge, regional economies must diversify to ensure their future. Those furthest away from the capital cities require support to compete for population and industry growth, and to respond to new challenges. Dozens of regional development programs across the nation are delivered by the three levels of government with little overall coordination, direction or evaluation, compete for regional support
Those furthest away from the capital cities require support to compete for population and industry growth, and to respond to new challenges. Dozens of regional development programs across the nation are delivered by the three levels of government with little overall coordination, direction or evaluation, compete for regional support In addition to the tax incentives, domestic relocation and bonded migration measures in under our Economy and Taxation plan, The Nationals commit to a fairer distribution of the growing federal funding for regional Australia through a coordinated partnership with state and local governments.
Dozens of regional development programs across the nation are delivered by the three levels of government with little overall coordination, direction or evaluation, compete for regional support In addition to the tax incentives, domestic relocation and bonded migration measures in under our Economy and Taxation plan, The Nationals commit to a fairer distribution of the growing federal funding for regional Australia through a coordinated partnership with state and local governments. Regional policy solutions
In addition to the tax incentives, domestic relocation and bonded migration measures in under our Economy and Taxation plan, The Nationals commit to a fairer distribution of the growing federal funding for regional Australia through a coordinated partnership with state and local governments. Regional policy solutions Though fundamentally important, the provision of basic services is not alone enough to ensure regional economies prosper and grow.
Regional policy solutions Though fundamentally important, the provision of basic services is not alone enough to ensure regional economies prosper and grow. Regional growth arises from entrepreneurship, knowledge, networks and innovation from outside the region coming to set up shop.
Though fundamentally important, the provision of basic services is not alone enough to ensure regional economies prosper and grow. Regional growth arises from entrepreneurship, knowledge, networks and innovation from outside the region coming to set up shop. Genuine regional development occurs when communities leverage their assets to achieve new economic opportunities.
Regional growth arises from entrepreneurship, knowledge, networks and innovation from outside the region coming to set up shop. Genuine regional development occurs when communities leverage their assets to achieve new economic opportunities. Innovation and entrepreneurship are central elements of successful regional economies, and communities and regions need to be encouraged by government to embrace them through more effective support for small business.
Genuine regional development occurs when communities leverage their assets to achieve new economic opportunities. Innovation and entrepreneurship are central elements of successful regional economies, and communities and regions need to be encouraged by government to embrace them through more effective support for small business. Regional education
Innovation and entrepreneurship are central elements of successful regional economies, and communities and regions need to be encouraged by government to embrace them through more effective support for small business. Regional education The Nationals will encourage regional universities to work with TAFE colleges to engage with young people, and so help produce the next generation of entrepreneurs
Regional education The Nationals will encourage regional universities to work with TAFE colleges to engage with young people, and so help produce the next generation of entrepreneurs To encourage graduates to work in regional Australia, we will provide a partial reduction in their HECS fee obligation, based on the length of time they spend there, and the degree of remoteness.
The Nationals will encourage regional universities to work with TAFE colleges to engage with young people, and so help produce the next generation of entrepreneurs To encourage graduates to work in regional Australia, we will provide a partial reduction in their HECS fee obligation, based on the length of time they spend there, and the degree of remoteness. Regional leadership
To encourage graduates to work in regional Australia, we will provide a partial reduction in their HECS fee obligation, based on the length of time they spend there, and the degree of remoteness. Regional leadership Decisions about strategy and objectives must be made by the leaders in each region, not by central governments
Regional leadership Decisions about strategy and objectives must be made by the leaders in each region, not by central governments Local communities must take a greater role in deciding the projects that will lead to economic and social beneﬁts in their areas
Decisions about strategy and objectives must be made by the leaders in each region, not by central governments Local communities must take a greater role in deciding the projects that will lead to economic and social beneﬁts in their areas This is a hallmark of The Nationals’ Royalties for Regions policy in Western Australia, the Regional Growth Fund in Victoria and the Restart NSW Fund.
Local communities must take a greater role in deciding the projects that will lead to economic and social beneﬁts in their areas This is a hallmark of The Nationals’ Royalties for Regions policy in Western Australia, the Regional Growth Fund in Victoria and the Restart NSW Fund. Better regional policy outcomes for Australia require better funding mechanisms for regional projects, and support for better focused regional institutions, where leaders are required to be strategic and visionary.
This is a hallmark of The Nationals’ Royalties for Regions policy in Western Australia, the Regional Growth Fund in Victoria and the Restart NSW Fund. Better regional policy outcomes for Australia require better funding mechanisms for regional projects, and support for better focused regional institutions, where leaders are required to be strategic and visionary. Good local government is the key to sound regional leadership
Better regional policy outcomes for Australia require better funding mechanisms for regional projects, and support for better focused regional institutions, where leaders are required to be strategic and visionary. Good local government is the key to sound regional leadership The Nationals support the constitutional recognition of local government to ensure that the federal government is able to continue to make direct payments to local government through regional programs such as Roads to Recovery.
Good local government is the key to sound regional leadership The Nationals support the constitutional recognition of local government to ensure that the federal government is able to continue to make direct payments to local government through regional programs such as Roads to Recovery. We will investigate the potential use of the Federal Government’s borrowing ability to leverage cheaper borrowing costs to local governments
The Nationals support the constitutional recognition of local government to ensure that the federal government is able to continue to make direct payments to local government through regional programs such as Roads to Recovery. We will investigate the potential use of the Federal Government’s borrowing ability to leverage cheaper borrowing costs to local governments This would assist to address the backlog of infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, community halls, libraries, paths, parks, water facilities and airports.
We will investigate the potential use of the Federal Government’s borrowing ability to leverage cheaper borrowing costs to local governments This would assist to address the backlog of infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, community halls, libraries, paths, parks, water facilities and airports. The Nationals support increased federal government funding for local government and we will aim to ensure that councils are fully compensated for ﬁnancial burdens associated with policies implemented by other tiers of government.
This would assist to address the backlog of infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, community halls, libraries, paths, parks, water facilities and airports. The Nationals support increased federal government funding for local government and we will aim to ensure that councils are fully compensated for ﬁnancial burdens associated with policies implemented by other tiers of government. Regional skills
The Nationals support increased federal government funding for local government and we will aim to ensure that councils are fully compensated for ﬁnancial burdens associated with policies implemented by other tiers of government. Regional skills To help alleviate the skills shortage in regional Australia, new arrivals will be encouraged to settle in regional and rural areas
Regional skills To help alleviate the skills shortage in regional Australia, new arrivals will be encouraged to settle in regional and rural areas Temporary work visas (457s) will be made more accessible to businesses in regional areas with known skills shortage needs
To help alleviate the skills shortage in regional Australia, new arrivals will be encouraged to settle in regional and rural areas Temporary work visas (457s) will be made more accessible to businesses in regional areas with known skills shortage needs The Nationals’ will build regional economic capacity by encouraging all regions to be more innovative and to set their own directions for economic development strategy, strongly supported by the federalgovernment.
Temporary work visas (457s) will be made more accessible to businesses in regional areas with known skills shortage needs The Nationals’ will build regional economic capacity by encouraging all regions to be more innovative and to set their own directions for economic development strategy, strongly supported by the federalgovernment. Regional infrastructure
The Nationals’ will build regional economic capacity by encouraging all regions to be more innovative and to set their own directions for economic development strategy, strongly supported by the federalgovernment. Regional infrastructure Under Labor governments, federal and state, country hospitals have been closed or downgraded, schools and public buildings neglected, infrastructure left to run down, and services withdrawn.
Regional infrastructure Under Labor governments, federal and state, country hospitals have been closed or downgraded, schools and public buildings neglected, infrastructure left to run down, and services withdrawn. Good infrastructure – roads, rail, telecommunications, schools, hospitals, bridges, dams or airports – is vital to unlocking regional Australia’s potential
Under Labor governments, federal and state, country hospitals have been closed or downgraded, schools and public buildings neglected, infrastructure left to run down, and services withdrawn. Good infrastructure – roads, rail, telecommunications, schools, hospitals, bridges, dams or airports – is vital to unlocking regional Australia’s potential However, soft infrastructure – such as health and allied health services, education resources, childcare and other social institutions – is also lacking and forms a barrier to regional relocation
Good infrastructure – roads, rail, telecommunications, schools, hospitals, bridges, dams or airports – is vital to unlocking regional Australia’s potential However, soft infrastructure – such as health and allied health services, education resources, childcare and other social institutions – is also lacking and forms a barrier to regional relocation The obligation of the federal government is to provide more than money
However, soft infrastructure – such as health and allied health services, education resources, childcare and other social institutions – is also lacking and forms a barrier to regional relocation The obligation of the federal government is to provide more than money A clearly deﬁned regional component must be identiﬁed in all long-term planning.
The obligation of the federal government is to provide more than money A clearly deﬁned regional component must be identiﬁed in all long-term planning. Infrastructure Australia was to deliver this integrated approach, but little has manifested since its inception in 2008
A clearly deﬁned regional component must be identiﬁed in all long-term planning. Infrastructure Australia was to deliver this integrated approach, but little has manifested since its inception in 2008 We will make it happen.
Infrastructure Australia was to deliver this integrated approach, but little has manifested since its inception in 2008 We will make it happen. We will ensure that a fair share of federal government funding for infrastructure and services is allocated to regional areas
We will make it happen. We will ensure that a fair share of federal government funding for infrastructure and services is allocated to regional areas Where appropriate, we write speciﬁc obligations into ﬁnancial agreements with the states, with an identiﬁed proportion of funding being allocated to regional areas.
We will ensure that a fair share of federal government funding for infrastructure and services is allocated to regional areas Where appropriate, we write speciﬁc obligations into ﬁnancial agreements with the states, with an identiﬁed proportion of funding being allocated to regional areas. Government decentralisation and purchasing
Where appropriate, we write speciﬁc obligations into ﬁnancial agreements with the states, with an identiﬁed proportion of funding being allocated to regional areas. Government decentralisation and purchasing The Nationals will establish a taskforce in the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet to identify opportunities to decentralise government service provision and relocate staff to regional locations where practical
Government decentralisation and purchasing The Nationals will establish a taskforce in the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet to identify opportunities to decentralise government service provision and relocate staff to regional locations where practical Reviewing government purchasing and tendering policies will reduce the barriers for smaller, regional-based businesses to bid for contracts and deliver government services.
The Nationals will establish a taskforce in the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet to identify opportunities to decentralise government service provision and relocate staff to regional locations where practical Reviewing government purchasing and tendering policies will reduce the barriers for smaller, regional-based businesses to bid for contracts and deliver government services. Regional Impact Statements
Reviewing government purchasing and tendering policies will reduce the barriers for smaller, regional-based businesses to bid for contracts and deliver government services. Regional Impact Statements The effects of government decisions on regional communities need to be taken into account, as part of the decision making process.
Regional Impact Statements The effects of government decisions on regional communities need to be taken into account, as part of the decision making process. The Nationals will require that all Cabinet submissions be accompanied by a Regional Impact Statement, outlining the economic, environmental and social consequences of government decisions on regional areas.
The effects of government decisions on regional communities need to be taken into account, as part of the decision making process. The Nationals will require that all Cabinet submissions be accompanied by a Regional Impact Statement, outlining the economic, environmental and social consequences of government decisions on regional areas. Regional Development Australia
The Nationals will require that all Cabinet submissions be accompanied by a Regional Impact Statement, outlining the economic, environmental and social consequences of government decisions on regional areas. Regional Development Australia Regional Development Australia must respond to local communities and build partnerships between them and government.
Regional Development Australia Regional Development Australia must respond to local communities and build partnerships between them and government. The Nationals will establish local committees, comprising local leaders drawn from the community, business and government, to set the direction of each Regional Development Australia ofﬁce
Regional Development Australia must respond to local communities and build partnerships between them and government. The Nationals will establish local committees, comprising local leaders drawn from the community, business and government, to set the direction of each Regional Development Australia ofﬁce Committee members will be responsible for working with regional stakeholders in preparing plans to strengthen the region.
The Nationals will establish local committees, comprising local leaders drawn from the community, business and government, to set the direction of each Regional Development Australia ofﬁce Committee members will be responsible for working with regional stakeholders in preparing plans to strengthen the region. Universities, service organisations, cultural groups, sporting clubs, business and community leaders, will work with Regional Development Australia ofﬁces to assess local needs and identify targeted initiatives
Committee members will be responsible for working with regional stakeholders in preparing plans to strengthen the region. Universities, service organisations, cultural groups, sporting clubs, business and community leaders, will work with Regional Development Australia ofﬁces to assess local needs and identify targeted initiatives The restructured Regional Development Australia network will navigate federal government funding programs, according to our fair share commitment, including a restructured Better Regions Program.
Universities, service organisations, cultural groups, sporting clubs, business and community leaders, will work with Regional Development Australia ofﬁces to assess local needs and identify targeted initiatives The restructured Regional Development Australia network will navigate federal government funding programs, according to our fair share commitment, including a restructured Better Regions Program. The Nationals will restructure the Regional Development Australia National Advisory Council to make it truly representative of the regions and to enable meaningful contributions to regional policy development
The restructured Regional Development Australia network will navigate federal government funding programs, according to our fair share commitment, including a restructured Better Regions Program. The Nationals will restructure the Regional Development Australia National Advisory Council to make it truly representative of the regions and to enable meaningful contributions to regional policy development The new committee will have direct access to senior Ministers and will be consulted on key policy initiatives.
The Nationals will restructure the Regional Development Australia National Advisory Council to make it truly representative of the regions and to enable meaningful contributions to regional policy development The new committee will have direct access to senior Ministers and will be consulted on key policy initiatives. Fair Share Fund
The new committee will have direct access to senior Ministers and will be consulted on key policy initiatives. Fair Share Fund The Fair Share Fund will provide resources for the following two programs:
Fair Share Fund The Fair Share Fund will provide resources for the following two programs: Sustainable Regions Program
The Fair Share Fund will provide resources for the following two programs: Sustainable Regions Program The need for special assistance for regions facing major structural adjustment as a result of unexpected demographic or economic change has continued under the Labor government.
Sustainable Regions Program The need for special assistance for regions facing major structural adjustment as a result of unexpected demographic or economic change has continued under the Labor government. However, Labor actions such as buying irrigation properties are adding to social and economic trauma.
The need for special assistance for regions facing major structural adjustment as a result of unexpected demographic or economic change has continued under the Labor government. However, Labor actions such as buying irrigation properties are adding to social and economic trauma. The Nationals will restore the Sustainable Regions Program in areas of Australia facing these challenges
However, Labor actions such as buying irrigation properties are adding to social and economic trauma. The Nationals will restore the Sustainable Regions Program in areas of Australia facing these challenges The program will be designed to support projects which create employment or establish new businesses, through partnerships between the private sector, government and the community.
The Nationals will restore the Sustainable Regions Program in areas of Australia facing these challenges The program will be designed to support projects which create employment or establish new businesses, through partnerships between the private sector, government and the community. Each region will have its own advisory panel comprising business, community and local leaders, who will consult with the community to determine the economic, community and social priorities for the region, and act as a ﬁrst ﬁlter for potential projects.
The program will be designed to support projects which create employment or establish new businesses, through partnerships between the private sector, government and the community. Each region will have its own advisory panel comprising business, community and local leaders, who will consult with the community to determine the economic, community and social priorities for the region, and act as a ﬁrst ﬁlter for potential projects. Better Regions Program
Each region will have its own advisory panel comprising business, community and local leaders, who will consult with the community to determine the economic, community and social priorities for the region, and act as a ﬁrst ﬁlter for potential projects. Better Regions Program The Nationals will broaden the Better Regions Program – a corrupted Labor version of the former Regional Partnerships program – to provide funding for community projects supported by partnership funds from state and local governments, the community, private enterprise and individuals
Better Regions Program The Nationals will broaden the Better Regions Program – a corrupted Labor version of the former Regional Partnerships program – to provide funding for community projects supported by partnership funds from state and local governments, the community, private enterprise and individuals All applications will undergo rigorous assessment
The Nationals will broaden the Better Regions Program – a corrupted Labor version of the former Regional Partnerships program – to provide funding for community projects supported by partnership funds from state and local governments, the community, private enterprise and individuals All applications will undergo rigorous assessment The Better Regions Program will have three components: infrastructure project grants for large scale industry, tourism, community infrastructure and community service proposals; community grants for initiatives that increase social opportunities, community participation and interaction; and a range of small grants to help councils and not-for-proﬁt organisations with minor community projects.
All applications will undergo rigorous assessment The Better Regions Program will have three components: infrastructure project grants for large scale industry, tourism, community infrastructure and community service proposals; community grants for initiatives that increase social opportunities, community participation and interaction; and a range of small grants to help councils and not-for-proﬁt organisations with minor community projects. Seniors– CELEBRATING AND RESPECTING OLDER AUSTRALIANS
The Better Regions Program will have three components: infrastructure project grants for large scale industry, tourism, community infrastructure and community service proposals; community grants for initiatives that increase social opportunities, community participation and interaction; and a range of small grants to help councils and not-for-proﬁt organisations with minor community projects. Seniors– CELEBRATING AND RESPECTING OLDER AUSTRALIANS Australians are living longer, more productive lives, and seeking to live independently in their own homes for as long as possible
Seniors– CELEBRATING AND RESPECTING OLDER AUSTRALIANS Australians are living longer, more productive lives, and seeking to live independently in their own homes for as long as possible This trend is in the government’s interest; sensible policies assisting seniors to stay home are much less costly than institutional care.
Australians are living longer, more productive lives, and seeking to live independently in their own homes for as long as possible This trend is in the government’s interest; sensible policies assisting seniors to stay home are much less costly than institutional care. It is not necessarily ‘aged care’ that we look for as we get older, but healthcare and services appropriate for our stage of life.
This trend is in the government’s interest; sensible policies assisting seniors to stay home are much less costly than institutional care. It is not necessarily ‘aged care’ that we look for as we get older, but healthcare and services appropriate for our stage of life. Key to The Nationals’ policy focus for senior Australians is the entitlement of all Australians to live with dignity throughout their lives
It is not necessarily ‘aged care’ that we look for as we get older, but healthcare and services appropriate for our stage of life. Key to The Nationals’ policy focus for senior Australians is the entitlement of all Australians to live with dignity throughout their lives Our senior citizens should not be seen as welfare dependent, nor a drain on the economy
Key to The Nationals’ policy focus for senior Australians is the entitlement of all Australians to live with dignity throughout their lives Our senior citizens should not be seen as welfare dependent, nor a drain on the economy The experience and guidance of older Australians in the workforce is being recognised by employers.
Our senior citizens should not be seen as welfare dependent, nor a drain on the economy The experience and guidance of older Australians in the workforce is being recognised by employers. Their lifelong contribution to society should be fostered and celebrated
The experience and guidance of older Australians in the workforce is being recognised by employers. Their lifelong contribution to society should be fostered and celebrated – seniors have paid their taxes, made Australia what it is today, and have more than earned their keep.
Their lifelong contribution to society should be fostered and celebrated – seniors have paid their taxes, made Australia what it is today, and have more than earned their keep. Older Australians enrich our communities, especially in the regions
– seniors have paid their taxes, made Australia what it is today, and have more than earned their keep. Older Australians enrich our communities, especially in the regions Their contribution can be seen in the essential services which keep regional communities vibrant, including policing, work in court houses, assistance in schools and hospitals, and many other community-based activities
Older Australians enrich our communities, especially in the regions Their contribution can be seen in the essential services which keep regional communities vibrant, including policing, work in court houses, assistance in schools and hospitals, and many other community-based activities Their civic service is vital to the health and vitality of regional Australia
Their contribution can be seen in the essential services which keep regional communities vibrant, including policing, work in court houses, assistance in schools and hospitals, and many other community-based activities Their civic service is vital to the health and vitality of regional Australia Our plan is to provide the best opportunities for older Australians in regional areas to remain healthy, active and engaged in the workforce and the community
Their civic service is vital to the health and vitality of regional Australia Our plan is to provide the best opportunities for older Australians in regional areas to remain healthy, active and engaged in the workforce and the community Ageing productively keeps people healthy and refutes any perception that seniors become a burden as our society witnesses an ageing population.
Our plan is to provide the best opportunities for older Australians in regional areas to remain healthy, active and engaged in the workforce and the community Ageing productively keeps people healthy and refutes any perception that seniors become a burden as our society witnesses an ageing population. Where high-level full-time aged care is required, seniors must have a say in the care they receive.
Ageing productively keeps people healthy and refutes any perception that seniors become a burden as our society witnesses an ageing population. Where high-level full-time aged care is required, seniors must have a say in the care they receive. Being in charge of one’s own life, treated as a grown up, is a dignity our seniors are entitled to expect.
Where high-level full-time aged care is required, seniors must have a say in the care they receive. Being in charge of one’s own life, treated as a grown up, is a dignity our seniors are entitled to expect. Our Plan
Being in charge of one’s own life, treated as a grown up, is a dignity our seniors are entitled to expect. Our Plan The Nationals’ plan recognises that the great majority of older Australians contribute to society right through their later years, when community attitudes allow it, and when they are provided with the right services to remain healthy, active and engaged in the community.
Our Plan The Nationals’ plan recognises that the great majority of older Australians contribute to society right through their later years, when community attitudes allow it, and when they are provided with the right services to remain healthy, active and engaged in the community. For those in need of greater support, whether acute care or to help in overcoming social isolation, The Nationals’ plan provides for more aged care beds, better mental illness services, and practical ﬁnancial support for community groups.
The Nationals’ plan recognises that the great majority of older Australians contribute to society right through their later years, when community attitudes allow it, and when they are provided with the right services to remain healthy, active and engaged in the community. For those in need of greater support, whether acute care or to help in overcoming social isolation, The Nationals’ plan provides for more aged care beds, better mental illness services, and practical ﬁnancial support for community groups. Education and employment
For those in need of greater support, whether acute care or to help in overcoming social isolation, The Nationals’ plan provides for more aged care beds, better mental illness services, and practical ﬁnancial support for community groups. Education and employment Government and the corporate sector must take on a greater role
Education and employment Government and the corporate sector must take on a greater role The Nationals maintain that education is a lifelong experience, and the best results are achieved by governments working with business and local communities to provide high quality, appropriate facilities and services.
Government and the corporate sector must take on a greater role The Nationals maintain that education is a lifelong experience, and the best results are achieved by governments working with business and local communities to provide high quality, appropriate facilities and services. Employers need encouragement to hire and retain older staff, and to work with other employees to retrain and redeploy them in mutually agreeable roles.
The Nationals maintain that education is a lifelong experience, and the best results are achieved by governments working with business and local communities to provide high quality, appropriate facilities and services. Employers need encouragement to hire and retain older staff, and to work with other employees to retrain and redeploy them in mutually agreeable roles. Speciﬁcally tailored training and education programs for seniors are necessary to ensure employers invest in up-skilling and re-skilling older employees
Employers need encouragement to hire and retain older staff, and to work with other employees to retrain and redeploy them in mutually agreeable roles. Speciﬁcally tailored training and education programs for seniors are necessary to ensure employers invest in up-skilling and re-skilling older employees In addition, we will provide support for educational institutions developing programs aimed at older Australians.
Speciﬁcally tailored training and education programs for seniors are necessary to ensure employers invest in up-skilling and re-skilling older employees In addition, we will provide support for educational institutions developing programs aimed at older Australians. Government can improve employment rates of senior Australians in the public service
In addition, we will provide support for educational institutions developing programs aimed at older Australians. Government can improve employment rates of senior Australians in the public service While departments publish the details of the senior ranks, they are less forthcoming about the number of over-60s recruited in the public service’s annual intake.
Government can improve employment rates of senior Australians in the public service While departments publish the details of the senior ranks, they are less forthcoming about the number of over-60s recruited in the public service’s annual intake. We will further counter age discrimination by assisting the unemployed over 50 to ﬁnd meaningful work.
While departments publish the details of the senior ranks, they are less forthcoming about the number of over-60s recruited in the public service’s annual intake. We will further counter age discrimination by assisting the unemployed over 50 to ﬁnd meaningful work. For pensioners who will undertake seasonal work, we will reform pension arrangements to support them in earning additional income
We will further counter age discrimination by assisting the unemployed over 50 to ﬁnd meaningful work. For pensioners who will undertake seasonal work, we will reform pension arrangements to support them in earning additional income In particular, we will extend the practice of income averaging for those able to undertake this work.
For pensioners who will undertake seasonal work, we will reform pension arrangements to support them in earning additional income In particular, we will extend the practice of income averaging for those able to undertake this work. To encourage seniors to stay in the workforce, we will abolish the superannuation guarantee limit, and remove the bureaucratic impediments and disincentives which discourage people from working beyond pensionable age.
In particular, we will extend the practice of income averaging for those able to undertake this work. To encourage seniors to stay in the workforce, we will abolish the superannuation guarantee limit, and remove the bureaucratic impediments and disincentives which discourage people from working beyond pensionable age. Retirement income and planning
To encourage seniors to stay in the workforce, we will abolish the superannuation guarantee limit, and remove the bureaucratic impediments and disincentives which discourage people from working beyond pensionable age. Retirement income and planning The overwhelming concern seniors often express is their uncertainty about how to plan and budget for their retirement.
Retirement income and planning The overwhelming concern seniors often express is their uncertainty about how to plan and budget for their retirement. Government shifting of goalposts disadvantages those looking to retire
The overwhelming concern seniors often express is their uncertainty about how to plan and budget for their retirement. Government shifting of goalposts disadvantages those looking to retire This is not just frustrating, it fuels anxieties and can be ﬁnancially crippling.
Government shifting of goalposts disadvantages those looking to retire This is not just frustrating, it fuels anxieties and can be ﬁnancially crippling. Australians in general are encouraged to prepare for retirement with careful and considered planning, but too few do.
This is not just frustrating, it fuels anxieties and can be ﬁnancially crippling. Australians in general are encouraged to prepare for retirement with careful and considered planning, but too few do. We will provide initiatives for the certainty people need in retirement planning
Australians in general are encouraged to prepare for retirement with careful and considered planning, but too few do. We will provide initiatives for the certainty people need in retirement planning Those on ﬁxed incomes – whether pensioners or self funded retirees – have very limited ﬁnancial ﬂexibility, and lack the disposable income of those in the work force to adapt their circumstances and respond to change.
We will provide initiatives for the certainty people need in retirement planning Those on ﬁxed incomes – whether pensioners or self funded retirees – have very limited ﬁnancial ﬂexibility, and lack the disposable income of those in the work force to adapt their circumstances and respond to change. Our reforms will encourage workers to prepare for retirement, by means such as an enhanced tax treatment of savings.
Those on ﬁxed incomes – whether pensioners or self funded retirees – have very limited ﬁnancial ﬂexibility, and lack the disposable income of those in the work force to adapt their circumstances and respond to change. Our reforms will encourage workers to prepare for retirement, by means such as an enhanced tax treatment of savings. We will make the cost of ﬁnancial planning tax deductible.
Our reforms will encourage workers to prepare for retirement, by means such as an enhanced tax treatment of savings. We will make the cost of ﬁnancial planning tax deductible. We will require greater accountability from superannuation funds
We will make the cost of ﬁnancial planning tax deductible. We will require greater accountability from superannuation funds We will require these funds to deliver high quality service and performance, to justify their privileged position under the Superannuation Levy Guarantee.
We will require greater accountability from superannuation funds We will require these funds to deliver high quality service and performance, to justify their privileged position under the Superannuation Levy Guarantee. We will establish a consumer protection program for older Australians.
We will require these funds to deliver high quality service and performance, to justify their privileged position under the Superannuation Levy Guarantee. We will establish a consumer protection program for older Australians. Health and aged care
We will establish a consumer protection program for older Australians. Health and aged care All Australians are entitled to the highest quality of care and such care must be provided respectfully and with dignity
Health and aged care All Australians are entitled to the highest quality of care and such care must be provided respectfully and with dignity Older Australians need incentives to retain private health insurance cover
All Australians are entitled to the highest quality of care and such care must be provided respectfully and with dignity Older Australians need incentives to retain private health insurance cover For many, their optimal take up of health cover comes when they can least afford it
Older Australians need incentives to retain private health insurance cover For many, their optimal take up of health cover comes when they can least afford it In government, The Nationals brought in the 30% rebate on private health insurance, and then extended it to 35% and 40% for seniors
For many, their optimal take up of health cover comes when they can least afford it In government, The Nationals brought in the 30% rebate on private health insurance, and then extended it to 35% and 40% for seniors We remain committed to these incentives.
In government, The Nationals brought in the 30% rebate on private health insurance, and then extended it to 35% and 40% for seniors We remain committed to these incentives. The Nationals support greater access to the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card for self funded retirees
We remain committed to these incentives. The Nationals support greater access to the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card for self funded retirees Through our regional health programs we will increase sub-acute care support for older Australians, improve dental care and provide more equitable access to Pharmaceutical Beneﬁts Scheme (free) medications for seniors.
The Nationals support greater access to the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card for self funded retirees Through our regional health programs we will increase sub-acute care support for older Australians, improve dental care and provide more equitable access to Pharmaceutical Beneﬁts Scheme (free) medications for seniors. We will address many people’s biggest fear – the quality of care they receive as they grow older.
Through our regional health programs we will increase sub-acute care support for older Australians, improve dental care and provide more equitable access to Pharmaceutical Beneﬁts Scheme (free) medications for seniors. We will address many people’s biggest fear – the quality of care they receive as they grow older. The Nationals believe it is important for families to stay together wherever possible
We will address many people’s biggest fear – the quality of care they receive as they grow older. The Nationals believe it is important for families to stay together wherever possible This can be difﬁcult in regional areas, where older parents and grandparents are involved, and where appropriate aged care facilities may be far from the family base
The Nationals believe it is important for families to stay together wherever possible This can be difﬁcult in regional areas, where older parents and grandparents are involved, and where appropriate aged care facilities may be far from the family base We will provide dedicated funding, and will work with all levels of government and community, to increase the number of aged care facilities and places in regional areas, and to boost the number of aged care beds there.
This can be difﬁcult in regional areas, where older parents and grandparents are involved, and where appropriate aged care facilities may be far from the family base We will provide dedicated funding, and will work with all levels of government and community, to increase the number of aged care facilities and places in regional areas, and to boost the number of aged care beds there. As the population ages, the same expectations of funding and performance proposed for regional hospitals must be applied to aged care facilities
We will provide dedicated funding, and will work with all levels of government and community, to increase the number of aged care facilities and places in regional areas, and to boost the number of aged care beds there. As the population ages, the same expectations of funding and performance proposed for regional hospitals must be applied to aged care facilities Incentives will be provided for regional health professionals to broaden their skills in providing expert care to the elderly.
As the population ages, the same expectations of funding and performance proposed for regional hospitals must be applied to aged care facilities Incentives will be provided for regional health professionals to broaden their skills in providing expert care to the elderly. The Nationals will introduce funding for aged care beds under similar arrangements for hospitals by establishing a new system where Commonwealth and State funding for aged care services is pooled into a single fund for each region, with managers at the regional level who can best identify community needs, directly oversee the real costs, and who will deliver the local beneﬁts of their decisions.
Incentives will be provided for regional health professionals to broaden their skills in providing expert care to the elderly. The Nationals will introduce funding for aged care beds under similar arrangements for hospitals by establishing a new system where Commonwealth and State funding for aged care services is pooled into a single fund for each region, with managers at the regional level who can best identify community needs, directly oversee the real costs, and who will deliver the local beneﬁts of their decisions. The Nationals package will remove the anxiety felt among older Australians as the numbers of staff – particularly nurses – are shrinking.
The Nationals will introduce funding for aged care beds under similar arrangements for hospitals by establishing a new system where Commonwealth and State funding for aged care services is pooled into a single fund for each region, with managers at the regional level who can best identify community needs, directly oversee the real costs, and who will deliver the local beneﬁts of their decisions. The Nationals package will remove the anxiety felt among older Australians as the numbers of staff – particularly nurses – are shrinking. The Nationals support the appointment of an Aged Care Ombudsman, to give people more conﬁdence in the system by providing an independent ofﬁce to investigate the issues no statutory body or government department currently monitors.
The Nationals package will remove the anxiety felt among older Australians as the numbers of staff – particularly nurses – are shrinking. The Nationals support the appointment of an Aged Care Ombudsman, to give people more conﬁdence in the system by providing an independent ofﬁce to investigate the issues no statutory body or government department currently monitors. As care needs intensify, so does the pressure on the families
The Nationals support the appointment of an Aged Care Ombudsman, to give people more conﬁdence in the system by providing an independent ofﬁce to investigate the issues no statutory body or government department currently monitors. As care needs intensify, so does the pressure on the families Respite care is important, providing much-needed support, and helping people stay at home longer
As care needs intensify, so does the pressure on the families Respite care is important, providing much-needed support, and helping people stay at home longer Flexibility is needed in how respite care is provide, both for immediate needs and for the future planning required
Respite care is important, providing much-needed support, and helping people stay at home longer Flexibility is needed in how respite care is provide, both for immediate needs and for the future planning required The population age shift will bring new and different challenges in the provision of respite care.
Flexibility is needed in how respite care is provide, both for immediate needs and for the future planning required The population age shift will bring new and different challenges in the provision of respite care. Social isolation damages health and wellbeing
The population age shift will bring new and different challenges in the provision of respite care. Social isolation damages health and wellbeing The Nationals support community initiatives to address it
Social isolation damages health and wellbeing The Nationals support community initiatives to address it Volunteer programs are valuable
The Nationals support community initiatives to address it Volunteer programs are valuable However, those people in aged care who are not receiving any government funding support (i.e. through the facility in which they are housed), are currently prohibited from accessing the volunteer services.
Volunteer programs are valuable However, those people in aged care who are not receiving any government funding support (i.e. through the facility in which they are housed), are currently prohibited from accessing the volunteer services. We will remove this anomaly and maximise the reach of volunteer programs dealing with social isolation.
However, those people in aged care who are not receiving any government funding support (i.e. through the facility in which they are housed), are currently prohibited from accessing the volunteer services. We will remove this anomaly and maximise the reach of volunteer programs dealing with social isolation. Small Business and Tourism– REALISING THE POTENTIAL IN REGIONAL ENTERPRISE
We will remove this anomaly and maximise the reach of volunteer programs dealing with social isolation. Small Business and Tourism– REALISING THE POTENTIAL IN REGIONAL ENTERPRISE The Nationals is the party of, and for, small business
Small Business and Tourism– REALISING THE POTENTIAL IN REGIONAL ENTERPRISE The Nationals is the party of, and for, small business We recognise that regional Australia depends on small business to drive local economies and regional prosperity.
The Nationals is the party of, and for, small business We recognise that regional Australia depends on small business to drive local economies and regional prosperity. In recent years, there has been a major diversiﬁcation in the activity undertaken by small businesses in regional Australia – a move away from a mainly rural-based industry structure to include services, tourism and manufacturing.
We recognise that regional Australia depends on small business to drive local economies and regional prosperity. In recent years, there has been a major diversiﬁcation in the activity undertaken by small businesses in regional Australia – a move away from a mainly rural-based industry structure to include services, tourism and manufacturing. The majority of businesses in regional Australia employ fewer than 20 people but, across the board, the sector is the largest employer
In recent years, there has been a major diversiﬁcation in the activity undertaken by small businesses in regional Australia – a move away from a mainly rural-based industry structure to include services, tourism and manufacturing. The majority of businesses in regional Australia employ fewer than 20 people but, across the board, the sector is the largest employer Of the 1,880,000 small businesses throughout Australia, some 35% – more than 650,000 ﬁrms – operate in regional Australia.
The majority of businesses in regional Australia employ fewer than 20 people but, across the board, the sector is the largest employer Of the 1,880,000 small businesses throughout Australia, some 35% – more than 650,000 ﬁrms – operate in regional Australia. To be competitive, small businesses in regional Australia must have the same opportunities to share in the beneﬁts of technology as those in the capital cities.
Of the 1,880,000 small businesses throughout Australia, some 35% – more than 650,000 ﬁrms – operate in regional Australia. To be competitive, small businesses in regional Australia must have the same opportunities to share in the beneﬁts of technology as those in the capital cities. The chronic skills shortage in regional areas is a major impediment for small business
To be competitive, small businesses in regional Australia must have the same opportunities to share in the beneﬁts of technology as those in the capital cities. The chronic skills shortage in regional areas is a major impediment for small business To overcome this, The Nationals’ will make temporary work visas (457s) more accessible to regional businesses, as well as requiring skilled, semi-skilled and non-skilled immigrants to be bonded to regional areas with relevant labour needs
The chronic skills shortage in regional areas is a major impediment for small business To overcome this, The Nationals’ will make temporary work visas (457s) more accessible to regional businesses, as well as requiring skilled, semi-skilled and non-skilled immigrants to be bonded to regional areas with relevant labour needs This is especially the case with tourism, where regional Australia struggles to get its share of the international visitor market
To overcome this, The Nationals’ will make temporary work visas (457s) more accessible to regional businesses, as well as requiring skilled, semi-skilled and non-skilled immigrants to be bonded to regional areas with relevant labour needs This is especially the case with tourism, where regional Australia struggles to get its share of the international visitor market The ratio of domestic to international visitors in the regions is as high as 19:1
This is especially the case with tourism, where regional Australia struggles to get its share of the international visitor market The ratio of domestic to international visitors in the regions is as high as 19:1 While Australia, as a whole, is seen as a desirable destination, the major cities and east coast holiday spots derive most of the beneﬁts.
The ratio of domestic to international visitors in the regions is as high as 19:1 While Australia, as a whole, is seen as a desirable destination, the major cities and east coast holiday spots derive most of the beneﬁts. Our Plan
While Australia, as a whole, is seen as a desirable destination, the major cities and east coast holiday spots derive most of the beneﬁts. Our Plan Easing the burdens
Our Plan Easing the burdens The Nationals recognise that success in maintaining existing businesses and attracting business people to relocate to regional areas depends on access to the quality services expected as part of modern living, including education, health, infrastructure and transport.
Easing the burdens The Nationals recognise that success in maintaining existing businesses and attracting business people to relocate to regional areas depends on access to the quality services expected as part of modern living, including education, health, infrastructure and transport. The Nationals aim to give small businesses the competitive environment and the tools they need to make the best of opportunities, in both domestic and international markets.
The Nationals recognise that success in maintaining existing businesses and attracting business people to relocate to regional areas depends on access to the quality services expected as part of modern living, including education, health, infrastructure and transport. The Nationals aim to give small businesses the competitive environment and the tools they need to make the best of opportunities, in both domestic and international markets. We will work with industry associations and academic institutions to develop small business education programs aimed at increasing efﬁciency and productivity.
The Nationals aim to give small businesses the competitive environment and the tools they need to make the best of opportunities, in both domestic and international markets. We will work with industry associations and academic institutions to develop small business education programs aimed at increasing efﬁciency and productivity. The vast number of interlocking and confusing regulations covering business activity at the federal, state and local levels must be simpliﬁed.
We will work with industry associations and academic institutions to develop small business education programs aimed at increasing efﬁciency and productivity. The vast number of interlocking and confusing regulations covering business activity at the federal, state and local levels must be simpliﬁed. The Nationals commit to reinvigorating previous programs to remove red tape at all levels of government
The vast number of interlocking and confusing regulations covering business activity at the federal, state and local levels must be simpliﬁed. The Nationals commit to reinvigorating previous programs to remove red tape at all levels of government This includes combating the indirect red tape that results from restrictions imposed by governments on other businesses, such as ﬁnancial institutions, which is then carried through to their small business clients.
The Nationals commit to reinvigorating previous programs to remove red tape at all levels of government This includes combating the indirect red tape that results from restrictions imposed by governments on other businesses, such as ﬁnancial institutions, which is then carried through to their small business clients. We will continue our leadership role in ensuring that small business can compete on a level playing ﬁeld with bigger businesses.
This includes combating the indirect red tape that results from restrictions imposed by governments on other businesses, such as ﬁnancial institutions, which is then carried through to their small business clients. We will continue our leadership role in ensuring that small business can compete on a level playing ﬁeld with bigger businesses. Healthy competition is good, but small businesses must be protected from unfair competition by powerful resource-rich companies.
We will continue our leadership role in ensuring that small business can compete on a level playing ﬁeld with bigger businesses. Healthy competition is good, but small businesses must be protected from unfair competition by powerful resource-rich companies. The Nationals have taken the lead in addressing deﬁciencies in the Trade Practices Act and will continue to address weaknesses in trade practices legislation affecting small business competitiveness.
Healthy competition is good, but small businesses must be protected from unfair competition by powerful resource-rich companies. The Nationals have taken the lead in addressing deﬁciencies in the Trade Practices Act and will continue to address weaknesses in trade practices legislation affecting small business competitiveness. We will also better resource the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to take action against large corporations that abuse their market power.
The Nationals have taken the lead in addressing deﬁciencies in the Trade Practices Act and will continue to address weaknesses in trade practices legislation affecting small business competitiveness. We will also better resource the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to take action against large corporations that abuse their market power. The Nationals in government will examine changes to the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, to:
We will also better resource the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to take action against large corporations that abuse their market power. The Nationals in government will examine changes to the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, to: Provide for a third party right of appeal to the Competition Tribunal (Part III) for any matter relating to acquisitions (s.50) or misuse of market power (s.46), including matters raised formally and informally with the ACCC on which the ACCC may or may not have acted; and provide that this third party right of appeal not be liable to any cost order in the Tribunal proceedings except if found to be vexatious; and
The Nationals in government will examine changes to the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, to: Provide for a third party right of appeal to the Competition Tribunal (Part III) for any matter relating to acquisitions (s.50) or misuse of market power (s.46), including matters raised formally and informally with the ACCC on which the ACCC may or may not have acted; and provide that this third party right of appeal not be liable to any cost order in the Tribunal proceedings except if found to be vexatious; and Examine what actions, if any, are appropriate for the ACCC to apply to the Courts for the breakup of monopolies or dominant companies that engage in conduct which undermines competition.
Provide for a third party right of appeal to the Competition Tribunal (Part III) for any matter relating to acquisitions (s.50) or misuse of market power (s.46), including matters raised formally and informally with the ACCC on which the ACCC may or may not have acted; and provide that this third party right of appeal not be liable to any cost order in the Tribunal proceedings except if found to be vexatious; and Examine what actions, if any, are appropriate for the ACCC to apply to the Courts for the breakup of monopolies or dominant companies that engage in conduct which undermines competition. Many economic and social advantages are evident for businesses operating in regional areas
Examine what actions, if any, are appropriate for the ACCC to apply to the Courts for the breakup of monopolies or dominant companies that engage in conduct which undermines competition. Many economic and social advantages are evident for businesses operating in regional areas The Nationals will support initiatives to make city businesses aware of these advantages and to encourage Australians to enjoy the beneﬁts of a non-metropolitan lifestyle.
Many economic and social advantages are evident for businesses operating in regional areas The Nationals will support initiatives to make city businesses aware of these advantages and to encourage Australians to enjoy the beneﬁts of a non-metropolitan lifestyle. We will also review the effect of additional costs on businesses outside  capital cities, with a view to determining what regional incentives could  be introduced to encourage city businesses to relocate.
The Nationals will support initiatives to make city businesses aware of these advantages and to encourage Australians to enjoy the beneﬁts of a non-metropolitan lifestyle. We will also review the effect of additional costs on businesses outside  capital cities, with a view to determining what regional incentives could  be introduced to encourage city businesses to relocate. The Nationals in government will provide a 30% investment allowance to assist small business in regional areas to expand and to create jobs, or for capital city businesses to relocate.
We will also review the effect of additional costs on businesses outside  capital cities, with a view to determining what regional incentives could  be introduced to encourage city businesses to relocate. The Nationals in government will provide a 30% investment allowance to assist small business in regional areas to expand and to create jobs, or for capital city businesses to relocate. The allowance will be for increasing business capacity, such as major new plant acquisitions or increasing production capacity
The Nationals in government will provide a 30% investment allowance to assist small business in regional areas to expand and to create jobs, or for capital city businesses to relocate. The allowance will be for increasing business capacity, such as major new plant acquisitions or increasing production capacity It will be subject to requirements like job creation benchmarks and output increases.
The allowance will be for increasing business capacity, such as major new plant acquisitions or increasing production capacity It will be subject to requirements like job creation benchmarks and output increases. The program will exclude passive investment, such as commercial property investment for lease.
It will be subject to requirements like job creation benchmarks and output increases. The program will exclude passive investment, such as commercial property investment for lease. The Nationals will review the impact of Internet trading on regional small businesses by reviewing the duty and GST exemption for imported goods valued at less than $1,000
The program will exclude passive investment, such as commercial property investment for lease. The Nationals will review the impact of Internet trading on regional small businesses by reviewing the duty and GST exemption for imported goods valued at less than $1,000 The practicality of reducing this threshold to $20 will be examined.
The Nationals will review the impact of Internet trading on regional small businesses by reviewing the duty and GST exemption for imported goods valued at less than $1,000 The practicality of reducing this threshold to $20 will be examined. The Nationals recognise that online shopping is now a fact of life, but believe that there is a need to level the playing ﬁeld, particularly for franchisees who are bound by restrictive purchasing practices that impact on their ability to compete on price.
The practicality of reducing this threshold to $20 will be examined. The Nationals recognise that online shopping is now a fact of life, but believe that there is a need to level the playing ﬁeld, particularly for franchisees who are bound by restrictive purchasing practices that impact on their ability to compete on price. We will review the Trade Practices Act to ensure that franchisees and others are not disadvantaged by agreements that prevent them from purchasing product at the most competitive price
The Nationals recognise that online shopping is now a fact of life, but believe that there is a need to level the playing ﬁeld, particularly for franchisees who are bound by restrictive purchasing practices that impact on their ability to compete on price. We will review the Trade Practices Act to ensure that franchisees and others are not disadvantaged by agreements that prevent them from purchasing product at the most competitive price In order to help retain small businesses in regional areas, The Nationals will encourage local planning authorities to take into account competitiveness issues when considering approvals for new or expanded retail developments.
We will review the Trade Practices Act to ensure that franchisees and others are not disadvantaged by agreements that prevent them from purchasing product at the most competitive price In order to help retain small businesses in regional areas, The Nationals will encourage local planning authorities to take into account competitiveness issues when considering approvals for new or expanded retail developments. State planning systems should take into account dominance in the retail sector as part of the net community beneﬁts test.
In order to help retain small businesses in regional areas, The Nationals will encourage local planning authorities to take into account competitiveness issues when considering approvals for new or expanded retail developments. State planning systems should take into account dominance in the retail sector as part of the net community beneﬁts test. Support for Co-operatives
State planning systems should take into account dominance in the retail sector as part of the net community beneﬁts test. Support for Co-operatives The Nationals in government will support the introduction of National Co-operatives Law.
Support for Co-operatives The Nationals in government will support the introduction of National Co-operatives Law. Consistent with the proposals being put to the Council of Australian Governments, a uniform system will:
The Nationals in government will support the introduction of National Co-operatives Law. Consistent with the proposals being put to the Council of Australian Governments, a uniform system will: Provide nationally consistent laws to replace the separate legislation currently operating in states and territories;
Consistent with the proposals being put to the Council of Australian Governments, a uniform system will: Provide nationally consistent laws to replace the separate legislation currently operating in states and territories; Provide the method for applying and maintaining the uniform legislation and regulations;
Provide nationally consistent laws to replace the separate legislation currently operating in states and territories; Provide the method for applying and maintaining the uniform legislation and regulations; Apply a clear guide as to how the law interacts with the Corporations Act 2001;
Provide the method for applying and maintaining the uniform legislation and regulations; Apply a clear guide as to how the law interacts with the Corporations Act 2001; Ensure that those provisions of the Corporations Act 2001 relevant to co-operatives are applied uniformly across states and territories;
Apply a clear guide as to how the law interacts with the Corporations Act 2001; Ensure that those provisions of the Corporations Act 2001 relevant to co-operatives are applied uniformly across states and territories; Simplify the ﬁnancial and auditing requirements for small cooperatives;
Ensure that those provisions of the Corporations Act 2001 relevant to co-operatives are applied uniformly across states and territories; Simplify the ﬁnancial and auditing requirements for small cooperatives; Reduce red-tape and restrictions on co-operatives operating across states and territories; and
Simplify the ﬁnancial and auditing requirements for small cooperatives; Reduce red-tape and restrictions on co-operatives operating across states and territories; and Introduce nationally consistent provisions for the supervision of cooperatives.
Reduce red-tape and restrictions on co-operatives operating across states and territories; and Introduce nationally consistent provisions for the supervision of cooperatives. The process of harmonisation will allow support of co-operatives at a national level and will allow national advocacy for co-operatives.
Introduce nationally consistent provisions for the supervision of cooperatives. The process of harmonisation will allow support of co-operatives at a national level and will allow national advocacy for co-operatives. The Nationals in government will also review methods to change the Australian accounting standards that treat share capital in co-operatives as a liability on co-operative balance sheets.
The process of harmonisation will allow support of co-operatives at a national level and will allow national advocacy for co-operatives. The Nationals in government will also review methods to change the Australian accounting standards that treat share capital in co-operatives as a liability on co-operative balance sheets. Fair credit card merchant fees
The Nationals in government will also review methods to change the Australian accounting standards that treat share capital in co-operatives as a liability on co-operative balance sheets. Fair credit card merchant fees The Nationals in government will ensure there is a ban on merchants from placing a surcharge on credit card transactions above the amount (as expressed in percentage of goods purchased) charged to the merchant by the credit card issuer for a transaction.
Fair credit card merchant fees The Nationals in government will ensure there is a ban on merchants from placing a surcharge on credit card transactions above the amount (as expressed in percentage of goods purchased) charged to the merchant by the credit card issuer for a transaction. In addition, credit card issuers will be prohibited from crediting back any revenue derived from merchant credit transactions
The Nationals in government will ensure there is a ban on merchants from placing a surcharge on credit card transactions above the amount (as expressed in percentage of goods purchased) charged to the merchant by the credit card issuer for a transaction. In addition, credit card issuers will be prohibited from crediting back any revenue derived from merchant credit transactions Such a prohibition would prevent an issuer from charging a merchant an inﬂated percentage on a transaction with an agreement that the issuer will then credit a certain amount back to the merchant at periodic intervals.
In addition, credit card issuers will be prohibited from crediting back any revenue derived from merchant credit transactions Such a prohibition would prevent an issuer from charging a merchant an inﬂated percentage on a transaction with an agreement that the issuer will then credit a certain amount back to the merchant at periodic intervals. Consumer Ombudsman
Such a prohibition would prevent an issuer from charging a merchant an inﬂated percentage on a transaction with an agreement that the issuer will then credit a certain amount back to the merchant at periodic intervals. Consumer Ombudsman The Nationals will provide stronger protection for small businesses and farmers from anticompetitive conduct,  including through:
Consumer Ombudsman The Nationals will provide stronger protection for small businesses and farmers from anticompetitive conduct,  including through: The establishment of a Commonwealth Australian Small Business and Farming Commissioner modelled on the Victorian Small Business Commissioner;
The Nationals will provide stronger protection for small businesses and farmers from anticompetitive conduct,  including through: The establishment of a Commonwealth Australian Small Business and Farming Commissioner modelled on the Victorian Small Business Commissioner; An amendment to the Competition and Consumer Act to provide an effective prohibition against anti-competitive price discrimination;
The establishment of a Commonwealth Australian Small Business and Farming Commissioner modelled on the Victorian Small Business Commissioner; An amendment to the Competition and Consumer Act to provide an effective prohibition against anti-competitive price discrimination; The strengthening of section 50 of the Competition and Consumer Act to prohibit ‘creeping acquisitions’, which individually substantially lessen competition, but which over time lead to the increased dominance of
An amendment to the Competition and Consumer Act to provide an effective prohibition against anti-competitive price discrimination; The strengthening of section 50 of the Competition and Consumer Act to prohibit ‘creeping acquisitions’, which individually substantially lessen competition, but which over time lead to the increased dominance of The development of a code of conduct covering large retailer-supplier dealings and dispute resolution processes.
The strengthening of section 50 of the Competition and Consumer Act to prohibit ‘creeping acquisitions’, which individually substantially lessen competition, but which over time lead to the increased dominance of The development of a code of conduct covering large retailer-supplier dealings and dispute resolution processes. Receivers and administrators
The development of a code of conduct covering large retailer-supplier dealings and dispute resolution processes. Receivers and administrators The Nationals note and condemn cases where family farms and small businesses have been mismanaged by receivers and/or administrators, resulting in the value of the asset being diminished and unnecessary hardship caused
Receivers and administrators The Nationals note and condemn cases where family farms and small businesses have been mismanaged by receivers and/or administrators, resulting in the value of the asset being diminished and unnecessary hardship caused In government we will provide greater protection for family farms from receivership, including the establishment of a Small Business and Farming Commissioner able to intervene in such cases.
The Nationals note and condemn cases where family farms and small businesses have been mismanaged by receivers and/or administrators, resulting in the value of the asset being diminished and unnecessary hardship caused In government we will provide greater protection for family farms from receivership, including the establishment of a Small Business and Farming Commissioner able to intervene in such cases. Farm debt mediation
In government we will provide greater protection for family farms from receivership, including the establishment of a Small Business and Farming Commissioner able to intervene in such cases. Farm debt mediation We recognise that farm debt recovery by banks and other lenders is increasing at an alarming rate, and note the extremely traumatic experience for farming families overwhelmed by the unconscionable behaviour of some lenders.
Farm debt mediation We recognise that farm debt recovery by banks and other lenders is increasing at an alarming rate, and note the extremely traumatic experience for farming families overwhelmed by the unconscionable behaviour of some lenders. We strongly oppose any strong-arm tactics by banks and lenders who rush to court orders; force vacant possession; and appoint liquidators and receivers who then force a ﬁre sale, bankrupting the unfortunate proprietor where there is a shortfall.
We recognise that farm debt recovery by banks and other lenders is increasing at an alarming rate, and note the extremely traumatic experience for farming families overwhelmed by the unconscionable behaviour of some lenders. We strongly oppose any strong-arm tactics by banks and lenders who rush to court orders; force vacant possession; and appoint liquidators and receivers who then force a ﬁre sale, bankrupting the unfortunate proprietor where there is a shortfall. We commit to a better process, requiring lenders to undertake compulsory debt mediation where default occurs, and allowing the landholders the right to sell their properties themselves via a controlled sale, preserving their dignity and preventing the collapse of the value of neighbouring properties
We strongly oppose any strong-arm tactics by banks and lenders who rush to court orders; force vacant possession; and appoint liquidators and receivers who then force a ﬁre sale, bankrupting the unfortunate proprietor where there is a shortfall. We commit to a better process, requiring lenders to undertake compulsory debt mediation where default occurs, and allowing the landholders the right to sell their properties themselves via a controlled sale, preserving their dignity and preventing the collapse of the value of neighbouring properties The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) will be required to review the Corporations Act 2001 and related industry codes so that liquidators are prevented from taking day to day management of a family-owned farm where a ﬁnancial institution forecloses on that property
We commit to a better process, requiring lenders to undertake compulsory debt mediation where default occurs, and allowing the landholders the right to sell their properties themselves via a controlled sale, preserving their dignity and preventing the collapse of the value of neighbouring properties The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) will be required to review the Corporations Act 2001 and related industry codes so that liquidators are prevented from taking day to day management of a family-owned farm where a ﬁnancial institution forecloses on that property In government The Nationals will work with all states/territories to achieve a national farm debt mediation standard to assist the ﬁnance sector and farmers to overcome cross-border anomalies and misunderstandings.
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) will be required to review the Corporations Act 2001 and related industry codes so that liquidators are prevented from taking day to day management of a family-owned farm where a ﬁnancial institution forecloses on that property In government The Nationals will work with all states/territories to achieve a national farm debt mediation standard to assist the ﬁnance sector and farmers to overcome cross-border anomalies and misunderstandings. Award modernisation
In government The Nationals will work with all states/territories to achieve a national farm debt mediation standard to assist the ﬁnance sector and farmers to overcome cross-border anomalies and misunderstandings. Award modernisation The Nationals support the rationalisation and updating of industrial awards and the introduction of greater ﬂexibility
Award modernisation The Nationals support the rationalisation and updating of industrial awards and the introduction of greater ﬂexibility Small businesses are generally more reliant on the award structure than larger businesses, and even more so in the regions.
The Nationals support the rationalisation and updating of industrial awards and the introduction of greater ﬂexibility Small businesses are generally more reliant on the award structure than larger businesses, and even more so in the regions. The Nationals do not support Labor’s objective of removing pay differentials between different parts of Australia or the imposition of common penalty rates.
Small businesses are generally more reliant on the award structure than larger businesses, and even more so in the regions. The Nationals do not support Labor’s objective of removing pay differentials between different parts of Australia or the imposition of common penalty rates. Unlike Labor, we understand that strawberries do not only ripen between 9am and 5pm on weekdays; that prawn trawler crews do not come home for dinner every evening; that country shows are generally held on public holidays; and that family wineries do most of their business on weekends.
The Nationals do not support Labor’s objective of removing pay differentials between different parts of Australia or the imposition of common penalty rates. Unlike Labor, we understand that strawberries do not only ripen between 9am and 5pm on weekdays; that prawn trawler crews do not come home for dinner every evening; that country shows are generally held on public holidays; and that family wineries do most of their business on weekends. The Nationals in government will instruct the Australian Industrial Relations Commission to recognise the special circumstances of businesses operating outside the major capital cities and to establish a pay structure accordingly
Unlike Labor, we understand that strawberries do not only ripen between 9am and 5pm on weekdays; that prawn trawler crews do not come home for dinner every evening; that country shows are generally held on public holidays; and that family wineries do most of their business on weekends. The Nationals in government will instruct the Australian Industrial Relations Commission to recognise the special circumstances of businesses operating outside the major capital cities and to establish a pay structure accordingly Workers and employees should have a workplace relations framework that allows them to make changes to working conditions that are advantageous to both, with the overriding requirement that safe working practices are not traded off.
The Nationals in government will instruct the Australian Industrial Relations Commission to recognise the special circumstances of businesses operating outside the major capital cities and to establish a pay structure accordingly Workers and employees should have a workplace relations framework that allows them to make changes to working conditions that are advantageous to both, with the overriding requirement that safe working practices are not traded off. The Nationals consider that any monopoly situation enjoyed by unions should be abolished
Workers and employees should have a workplace relations framework that allows them to make changes to working conditions that are advantageous to both, with the overriding requirement that safe working practices are not traded off. The Nationals consider that any monopoly situation enjoyed by unions should be abolished The principle of the ‘conveniently belong rule’ of 1905 should be removed to provide competition within the union movement by allowing workers to freely form and maintain new registered unions in competition with existing unions.
The Nationals consider that any monopoly situation enjoyed by unions should be abolished The principle of the ‘conveniently belong rule’ of 1905 should be removed to provide competition within the union movement by allowing workers to freely form and maintain new registered unions in competition with existing unions. The global economy
The principle of the ‘conveniently belong rule’ of 1905 should be removed to provide competition within the union movement by allowing workers to freely form and maintain new registered unions in competition with existing unions. The global economy The Nationals support a Small Business Action Plan to respond to ﬂuctuations in the global economy.
The global economy The Nationals support a Small Business Action Plan to respond to ﬂuctuations in the global economy. Measures will include:
The Nationals support a Small Business Action Plan to respond to ﬂuctuations in the global economy. Measures will include: Tax loss carry-back to allow businesses to offset operating losses and retain staff by claiming back taxes paid over the past three years, up to a $100,000 limit;
Measures will include: Tax loss carry-back to allow businesses to offset operating losses and retain staff by claiming back taxes paid over the past three years, up to a $100,000 limit; OECD-best practice regulation, whereby, the Commonwealth will undertake a comprehensive audit of all the federal, state and local paperwork needed to start or expand a business
Tax loss carry-back to allow businesses to offset operating losses and retain staff by claiming back taxes paid over the past three years, up to a $100,000 limit; OECD-best practice regulation, whereby, the Commonwealth will undertake a comprehensive audit of all the federal, state and local paperwork needed to start or expand a business We will ensure that this overhead burden is reduced at least to match OECD best practice;
OECD-best practice regulation, whereby, the Commonwealth will undertake a comprehensive audit of all the federal, state and local paperwork needed to start or expand a business We will ensure that this overhead burden is reduced at least to match OECD best practice; A one-stop shop regulation portal to deliver integrated online access to all forms and ﬁlings, regardless of the level of government imposing them; and
We will ensure that this overhead burden is reduced at least to match OECD best practice; A one-stop shop regulation portal to deliver integrated online access to all forms and ﬁlings, regardless of the level of government imposing them; and Support advice for family businesses on succession planning and family business development.
A one-stop shop regulation portal to deliver integrated online access to all forms and ﬁlings, regardless of the level of government imposing them; and Support advice for family businesses on succession planning and family business development. Supporting regional tourism
Support advice for family businesses on succession planning and family business development. Supporting regional tourism Local tourism in regional Australia needs to be supported by the vocational and professional training of tourism operators and suppliers.
Supporting regional tourism Local tourism in regional Australia needs to be supported by the vocational and professional training of tourism operators and suppliers. The Nationals support the establishment of a regional tourism training initiative to improve the skills and professional standards of tourism operators, and to assist them to meet the particular challenges presented by regional tourist activities.
Local tourism in regional Australia needs to be supported by the vocational and professional training of tourism operators and suppliers. The Nationals support the establishment of a regional tourism training initiative to improve the skills and professional standards of tourism operators, and to assist them to meet the particular challenges presented by regional tourist activities. This initiative would encompass a number of programs to meet the needs of various tourism industry sectors, such as:
The Nationals support the establishment of a regional tourism training initiative to improve the skills and professional standards of tourism operators, and to assist them to meet the particular challenges presented by regional tourist activities. This initiative would encompass a number of programs to meet the needs of various tourism industry sectors, such as: Grants to existing and new tourist operators of farm stays, motels, bed and breakfasts, and wineries for training in marketing and promotion, with particular emphasis on online marketing;
This initiative would encompass a number of programs to meet the needs of various tourism industry sectors, such as: Grants to existing and new tourist operators of farm stays, motels, bed and breakfasts, and wineries for training in marketing and promotion, with particular emphasis on online marketing; Training rebates for travel agents and tourism operators who undertake a training course or accreditation in regional tourism, based on the number of bed nights they sell into regional Australia within a prescribed period;
Grants to existing and new tourist operators of farm stays, motels, bed and breakfasts, and wineries for training in marketing and promotion, with particular emphasis on online marketing; Training rebates for travel agents and tourism operators who undertake a training course or accreditation in regional tourism, based on the number of bed nights they sell into regional Australia within a prescribed period; A national database and rating system, similar to the motel star system, listing tourism businesses and outlets that successfully complete vocational training courses related to tourism; and
Training rebates for travel agents and tourism operators who undertake a training course or accreditation in regional tourism, based on the number of bed nights they sell into regional Australia within a prescribed period; A national database and rating system, similar to the motel star system, listing tourism businesses and outlets that successfully complete vocational training courses related to tourism; and Funding for speciﬁc regional education tours for major tourism operators, similar to the programs now conducted by other countries, to enable travel consultants to gain a better understanding of what is on offer
A national database and rating system, similar to the motel star system, listing tourism businesses and outlets that successfully complete vocational training courses related to tourism; and Funding for speciﬁc regional education tours for major tourism operators, similar to the programs now conducted by other countries, to enable travel consultants to gain a better understanding of what is on offer Many regional communities, cultural and sporting events need government support from time to time, as the regional economy ebbs and ﬂows.
Funding for speciﬁc regional education tours for major tourism operators, similar to the programs now conducted by other countries, to enable travel consultants to gain a better understanding of what is on offer Many regional communities, cultural and sporting events need government support from time to time, as the regional economy ebbs and ﬂows. Support is currently available only on an ad hoc basis from governments and government business entities.
Many regional communities, cultural and sporting events need government support from time to time, as the regional economy ebbs and ﬂows. Support is currently available only on an ad hoc basis from governments and government business entities. The future of the Australian Tourism Development Program and federal government funding of tourism activities is uncertain.
Support is currently available only on an ad hoc basis from governments and government business entities. The future of the Australian Tourism Development Program and federal government funding of tourism activities is uncertain. While local governments bear the brunt of the cost of tourism promotion in the regions, many local governments cannot afford to provide such funding on a consistent and continuing basis.
The future of the Australian Tourism Development Program and federal government funding of tourism activities is uncertain. While local governments bear the brunt of the cost of tourism promotion in the regions, many local governments cannot afford to provide such funding on a consistent and continuing basis. The Nationals insist that all levels of government must commit to funding tourist promotion and that the federal government should play a leading role
While local governments bear the brunt of the cost of tourism promotion in the regions, many local governments cannot afford to provide such funding on a consistent and continuing basis. The Nationals insist that all levels of government must commit to funding tourist promotion and that the federal government should play a leading role Regions need consistent support to compete at an international level
The Nationals insist that all levels of government must commit to funding tourist promotion and that the federal government should play a leading role Regions need consistent support to compete at an international level We support the development of a three-year, ‘See Australia First’ campaign focused on regional tourism markets.
Regions need consistent support to compete at an international level We support the development of a three-year, ‘See Australia First’ campaign focused on regional tourism markets. The Nationals support the establishment of a federal tourism fund to provide project-speciﬁc grants to support regional promotion campaigns or major regional tourism and entertainment events.
We support the development of a three-year, ‘See Australia First’ campaign focused on regional tourism markets. The Nationals support the establishment of a federal tourism fund to provide project-speciﬁc grants to support regional promotion campaigns or major regional tourism and entertainment events. The grants process will be competitive, with a major criterion being the ability of the project to generate long-term shifts in tourist behaviour.
The Nationals support the establishment of a federal tourism fund to provide project-speciﬁc grants to support regional promotion campaigns or major regional tourism and entertainment events. The grants process will be competitive, with a major criterion being the ability of the project to generate long-term shifts in tourist behaviour. We also support the establishment of a permanent ‘Regional Tourism Disaster Fund’, to be used to assist with marketing campaigns in the aftermath of natural disasters.
The grants process will be competitive, with a major criterion being the ability of the project to generate long-term shifts in tourist behaviour. We also support the establishment of a permanent ‘Regional Tourism Disaster Fund’, to be used to assist with marketing campaigns in the aftermath of natural disasters. Poker machine pre-commitment technology
We also support the establishment of a permanent ‘Regional Tourism Disaster Fund’, to be used to assist with marketing campaigns in the aftermath of natural disasters. Poker machine pre-commitment technology The Nationals recognise the social and commercial beneﬁts clubs and pubs bring to regional communities
Poker machine pre-commitment technology The Nationals recognise the social and commercial beneﬁts clubs and pubs bring to regional communities while we support the implementation of voluntary responsible gambling initiatives from clubs and pubs, we oppose any mandatory pre-commitment technology measures, as harmful to the viability of clubs and pubs in rural and regional areas, and we oppose the proposed $250 limit on ATM’s located in clubs and pubs.
The Nationals recognise the social and commercial beneﬁts clubs and pubs bring to regional communities while we support the implementation of voluntary responsible gambling initiatives from clubs and pubs, we oppose any mandatory pre-commitment technology measures, as harmful to the viability of clubs and pubs in rural and regional areas, and we oppose the proposed $250 limit on ATM’s located in clubs and pubs. Social Justice– A FAIR GO FOR ALL AUSTRALIANS
while we support the implementation of voluntary responsible gambling initiatives from clubs and pubs, we oppose any mandatory pre-commitment technology measures, as harmful to the viability of clubs and pubs in rural and regional areas, and we oppose the proposed $250 limit on ATM’s located in clubs and pubs. Social Justice– A FAIR GO FOR ALL AUSTRALIANS Underpinning all Nationals’ philosophy is the notion of a ‘fair go’ for all Australians, wherever they live
Social Justice– A FAIR GO FOR ALL AUSTRALIANS Underpinning all Nationals’ philosophy is the notion of a ‘fair go’ for all Australians, wherever they live Equality of opportunity to participate in our community to the full extent of ability, capacity and desire is the birthright of every Australian.
Underpinning all Nationals’ philosophy is the notion of a ‘fair go’ for all Australians, wherever they live Equality of opportunity to participate in our community to the full extent of ability, capacity and desire is the birthright of every Australian. As we represent some of the most disadvantaged electorates in the country, the plight of our seniors, carers, those with a disability, our Indigenous population and the underprivileged is our core concern
Equality of opportunity to participate in our community to the full extent of ability, capacity and desire is the birthright of every Australian. As we represent some of the most disadvantaged electorates in the country, the plight of our seniors, carers, those with a disability, our Indigenous population and the underprivileged is our core concern Our commitment to social justice is the foundation of all of our policies.
As we represent some of the most disadvantaged electorates in the country, the plight of our seniors, carers, those with a disability, our Indigenous population and the underprivileged is our core concern Our commitment to social justice is the foundation of all of our policies. The Nationals oppose any attempt to introduce a statutory or constitutional charter of human rights.
Our commitment to social justice is the foundation of all of our policies. The Nationals oppose any attempt to introduce a statutory or constitutional charter of human rights. The Nationals believe that forced marriages should be banned in Australia and will support legislation to that effect.
The Nationals oppose any attempt to introduce a statutory or constitutional charter of human rights. The Nationals believe that forced marriages should be banned in Australia and will support legislation to that effect. The Nationals endorse the repeal of s. 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act 1974 (Cth) and corresponding sections of state anti-discrimination Acts, in the interests of free speech and a free press.
The Nationals believe that forced marriages should be banned in Australia and will support legislation to that effect. The Nationals endorse the repeal of s. 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act 1974 (Cth) and corresponding sections of state anti-discrimination Acts, in the interests of free speech and a free press. Caring for fellow Australians
The Nationals endorse the repeal of s. 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act 1974 (Cth) and corresponding sections of state anti-discrimination Acts, in the interests of free speech and a free press. Caring for fellow Australians One of The Nationals’ core values is to provide security for Australian communities and their families through the preservation of decent health, safety, social and economic welfare standards.
Caring for fellow Australians One of The Nationals’ core values is to provide security for Australian communities and their families through the preservation of decent health, safety, social and economic welfare standards. The Nationals believe in:
One of The Nationals’ core values is to provide security for Australian communities and their families through the preservation of decent health, safety, social and economic welfare standards. The Nationals believe in: The establishment of a National Disability Insurance Scheme;
The Nationals believe in: The establishment of a National Disability Insurance Scheme; Reasonable access to quality, affordable health care and education for all Australians, regardless of their location and personal circumstances;
The establishment of a National Disability Insurance Scheme; Reasonable access to quality, affordable health care and education for all Australians, regardless of their location and personal circumstances; Improved support services for those with a disability and their carers to better meet the needs of disabled people and their family carers
Reasonable access to quality, affordable health care and education for all Australians, regardless of their location and personal circumstances; Improved support services for those with a disability and their carers to better meet the needs of disabled people and their family carers The Nationals will provide greater support for community groups engaged in the provision of accommodation to provide accommodation on a long-term sustainable basis; and
Improved support services for those with a disability and their carers to better meet the needs of disabled people and their family carers The Nationals will provide greater support for community groups engaged in the provision of accommodation to provide accommodation on a long-term sustainable basis; and Provision of programs to assist those parents with disabled children to plan for their future, including greater support from government through arrangements such as taxation offsets and disability trusts.
The Nationals will provide greater support for community groups engaged in the provision of accommodation to provide accommodation on a long-term sustainable basis; and Provision of programs to assist those parents with disabled children to plan for their future, including greater support from government through arrangements such as taxation offsets and disability trusts. The Nationals recognise the urgent need to assist ageing parents and carers of disabled children, and in government will:
Provision of programs to assist those parents with disabled children to plan for their future, including greater support from government through arrangements such as taxation offsets and disability trusts. The Nationals recognise the urgent need to assist ageing parents and carers of disabled children, and in government will: Reintroduce the former Coalition Government’s Special Disability Trust program, and remove capital gains tax on the transfer of property into special disability trusts, and concentrate the Ministerial responsibility for disability services within a single portfolio;
The Nationals recognise the urgent need to assist ageing parents and carers of disabled children, and in government will: Reintroduce the former Coalition Government’s Special Disability Trust program, and remove capital gains tax on the transfer of property into special disability trusts, and concentrate the Ministerial responsibility for disability services within a single portfolio; Support the implementation of a lifelong care and support system, along the lines of the Productivity Commission report on a National Disability Insurance Scheme, for all Australians with a signiﬁcant disability whether acquired at or after birth;
Reintroduce the former Coalition Government’s Special Disability Trust program, and remove capital gains tax on the transfer of property into special disability trusts, and concentrate the Ministerial responsibility for disability services within a single portfolio; Support the implementation of a lifelong care and support system, along the lines of the Productivity Commission report on a National Disability Insurance Scheme, for all Australians with a signiﬁcant disability whether acquired at or after birth; Provide resources to public and private education facilities to meet the needs of the disabled;
Support the implementation of a lifelong care and support system, along the lines of the Productivity Commission report on a National Disability Insurance Scheme, for all Australians with a signiﬁcant disability whether acquired at or after birth; Provide resources to public and private education facilities to meet the needs of the disabled; Provision of resources to public and private education facilities to meet the needs of disabled students to enable them to reach their full potential;
Provide resources to public and private education facilities to meet the needs of the disabled; Provision of resources to public and private education facilities to meet the needs of disabled students to enable them to reach their full potential; Ensure that there are sufﬁcient accommodation places and support to meet the needs of all ageing people with a disability who require such a placement;
Provision of resources to public and private education facilities to meet the needs of disabled students to enable them to reach their full potential; Ensure that there are sufﬁcient accommodation places and support to meet the needs of all ageing people with a disability who require such a placement; Provide resources so that young people who require 24-hour care have separate specialised accommodation, rather than being placed in nursing homes for the aged;
Ensure that there are sufﬁcient accommodation places and support to meet the needs of all ageing people with a disability who require such a placement; Provide resources so that young people who require 24-hour care have separate specialised accommodation, rather than being placed in nursing homes for the aged; Uphold the rights of Indigenous Australians and recognise their special needs through properly resourced programs directed to promoting self-help, self-respect, education and job creation;
Provide resources so that young people who require 24-hour care have separate specialised accommodation, rather than being placed in nursing homes for the aged; Uphold the rights of Indigenous Australians and recognise their special needs through properly resourced programs directed to promoting self-help, self-respect, education and job creation; Ensure adequate funding of law enforcement and counselling services speciﬁcally directed to personal security and to overcoming domestic violence and alcohol and drug abuse
Uphold the rights of Indigenous Australians and recognise their special needs through properly resourced programs directed to promoting self-help, self-respect, education and job creation; Ensure adequate funding of law enforcement and counselling services speciﬁcally directed to personal security and to overcoming domestic violence and alcohol and drug abuse In particular, we will support the expansion of community crime prevention programs aimed at supporting police, local councils and community groups to develop local solutions to local problems, including the expanded use of closed circuit television and other cost-effective measures to improve community safety;
Ensure adequate funding of law enforcement and counselling services speciﬁcally directed to personal security and to overcoming domestic violence and alcohol and drug abuse In particular, we will support the expansion of community crime prevention programs aimed at supporting police, local councils and community groups to develop local solutions to local problems, including the expanded use of closed circuit television and other cost-effective measures to improve community safety; Increase funding to combat youth mental health issues and to support better relationships between child and adolescent mental health services and adult mental health services;
In particular, we will support the expansion of community crime prevention programs aimed at supporting police, local councils and community groups to develop local solutions to local problems, including the expanded use of closed circuit television and other cost-effective measures to improve community safety; Increase funding to combat youth mental health issues and to support better relationships between child and adolescent mental health services and adult mental health services; Ensure that programs directed to the care and welfare of children provide men and women with the choice of either seeking childcare outside the home or within the home; and
Increase funding to combat youth mental health issues and to support better relationships between child and adolescent mental health services and adult mental health services; Ensure that programs directed to the care and welfare of children provide men and women with the choice of either seeking childcare outside the home or within the home; and Provide travel assistance for former prisoners of war wishing to travel overseas to attend one signiﬁcant commemoration ceremony.
Ensure that programs directed to the care and welfare of children provide men and women with the choice of either seeking childcare outside the home or within the home; and Provide travel assistance for former prisoners of war wishing to travel overseas to attend one signiﬁcant commemoration ceremony. A fair and accessible legal system
Provide travel assistance for former prisoners of war wishing to travel overseas to attend one signiﬁcant commemoration ceremony. A fair and accessible legal system The Nationals are determined to eliminate the divide between those living in and those living outside major capital cities, including any limitation on access to a fair legal system that respects the rights and responsibilities of all Australians.
A fair and accessible legal system The Nationals are determined to eliminate the divide between those living in and those living outside major capital cities, including any limitation on access to a fair legal system that respects the rights and responsibilities of all Australians. The Nationals are committed to:
The Nationals are determined to eliminate the divide between those living in and those living outside major capital cities, including any limitation on access to a fair legal system that respects the rights and responsibilities of all Australians. The Nationals are committed to: Ensuring the legal system is accessible to all Australians regardless of their circumstances;
The Nationals are committed to: Ensuring the legal system is accessible to all Australians regardless of their circumstances; Reviewing the family law and child support system to ensure that the interests of children are paramount; and
Ensuring the legal system is accessible to all Australians regardless of their circumstances; Reviewing the family law and child support system to ensure that the interests of children are paramount; and Removing any discrimination against sexual preference,
Reviewing the family law and child support system to ensure that the interests of children are paramount; and Removing any discrimination against sexual preference, while upholding the sanctity of marriage between a man and woman.
Removing any discrimination against sexual preference, while upholding the sanctity of marriage between a man and woman. Telecommunications and Information Technology– CONNECTING REGIONAL AUSTRALIANS TO AFFORDABLE NEW TECHNOLOGIES
while upholding the sanctity of marriage between a man and woman. Telecommunications and Information Technology– CONNECTING REGIONAL AUSTRALIANS TO AFFORDABLE NEW TECHNOLOGIES Effective telecommunications unite Australians wherever they work, live and play in local, national and, increasingly, global communities.
Telecommunications and Information Technology– CONNECTING REGIONAL AUSTRALIANS TO AFFORDABLE NEW TECHNOLOGIES Effective telecommunications unite Australians wherever they work, live and play in local, national and, increasingly, global communities. Quality, reliable telephone services, high-speed internet access and broadcast infrastructure are essential to ensure regional Australians fully participate in the ever-evolving social and economic beneﬁts of state-of-the-art communication and information technologies.
Effective telecommunications unite Australians wherever they work, live and play in local, national and, increasingly, global communities. Quality, reliable telephone services, high-speed internet access and broadcast infrastructure are essential to ensure regional Australians fully participate in the ever-evolving social and economic beneﬁts of state-of-the-art communication and information technologies. Communications networks deliver timely and greater access to improved health services, open a new world of education options, drive employment and create business opportunities in regional Australia.
Quality, reliable telephone services, high-speed internet access and broadcast infrastructure are essential to ensure regional Australians fully participate in the ever-evolving social and economic beneﬁts of state-of-the-art communication and information technologies. Communications networks deliver timely and greater access to improved health services, open a new world of education options, drive employment and create business opportunities in regional Australia. No-one understands the vital role communications play in regional Australia like the people who live there
Communications networks deliver timely and greater access to improved health services, open a new world of education options, drive employment and create business opportunities in regional Australia. No-one understands the vital role communications play in regional Australia like the people who live there The Nationals will bridge the communications divide between the regions and capital cities, prioritising planning and rollout of communications infrastructure.
No-one understands the vital role communications play in regional Australia like the people who live there The Nationals will bridge the communications divide between the regions and capital cities, prioritising planning and rollout of communications infrastructure. Education and healthcare delivery are increasingly underpinned by telecommunications
The Nationals will bridge the communications divide between the regions and capital cities, prioritising planning and rollout of communications infrastructure. Education and healthcare delivery are increasingly underpinned by telecommunications These services are keys to social cohesion, participation in local communities and the broader economy, cultural wellbeing and access to emergency services.
Education and healthcare delivery are increasingly underpinned by telecommunications These services are keys to social cohesion, participation in local communities and the broader economy, cultural wellbeing and access to emergency services. In regional and remote communities, telecommunications are not nice extras… they are a necessity.
These services are keys to social cohesion, participation in local communities and the broader economy, cultural wellbeing and access to emergency services. In regional and remote communities, telecommunications are not nice extras… they are a necessity. Our pledge is that regional Australians are entitled to access high quality, timely and affordable communication and information technologies – both for existing and emerging products and services
In regional and remote communities, telecommunications are not nice extras… they are a necessity. Our pledge is that regional Australians are entitled to access high quality, timely and affordable communication and information technologies – both for existing and emerging products and services From that base, there is no limit to the emerging opportunities for regional families, businesses and communities, including access to:
Our pledge is that regional Australians are entitled to access high quality, timely and affordable communication and information technologies – both for existing and emerging products and services From that base, there is no limit to the emerging opportunities for regional families, businesses and communities, including access to: High-speed broadband internet;
From that base, there is no limit to the emerging opportunities for regional families, businesses and communities, including access to: High-speed broadband internet; Voice-over-internet telephony;
High-speed broadband internet; Voice-over-internet telephony; Free-to-air and subscription digital television;
Voice-over-internet telephony; Free-to-air and subscription digital television; Online services for banking, bill payment, shopping, buying and selling on auction websites;
Free-to-air and subscription digital television; Online services for banking, bill payment, shopping, buying and selling on auction websites; Government services;
Online services for banking, bill payment, shopping, buying and selling on auction websites; Government services; Timely and accurate weather forecasts from the Bureau of Meteorology;
Government services; Timely and accurate weather forecasts from the Bureau of Meteorology; Educational materials at all levels of schooling and, increasingly, for tertiary studies;
Timely and accurate weather forecasts from the Bureau of Meteorology; Educational materials at all levels of schooling and, increasingly, for tertiary studies; Future commercial television video-on-demand services delivered online – already available in other countries, such as Hong Kong and South Korea;
Educational materials at all levels of schooling and, increasingly, for tertiary studies; Future commercial television video-on-demand services delivered online – already available in other countries, such as Hong Kong and South Korea; Video conferencing;
Future commercial television video-on-demand services delivered online – already available in other countries, such as Hong Kong and South Korea; Video conferencing; Telemedicine services, whether voice over telephony or via video webcam – a direct link to a doctor who might be anywhere in Australia or the world, just a click away;
Video conferencing; Telemedicine services, whether voice over telephony or via video webcam – a direct link to a doctor who might be anywhere in Australia or the world, just a click away; Streaming media – allowing users to listen to online radio and watch online TV programs, as well as a host of other audio-visual options;
Telemedicine services, whether voice over telephony or via video webcam – a direct link to a doctor who might be anywhere in Australia or the world, just a click away; Streaming media – allowing users to listen to online radio and watch online TV programs, as well as a host of other audio-visual options; Improved mobile phone and digital television networks;
Streaming media – allowing users to listen to online radio and watch online TV programs, as well as a host of other audio-visual options; Improved mobile phone and digital television networks; Ongoing commitment to a communications ‘black spot’ program;
Improved mobile phone and digital television networks; Ongoing commitment to a communications ‘black spot’ program; Support for community radio – which ﬁlls the gaps left by bigger providers, particularly in emergencies such as bushﬁres or ﬂoods.
Ongoing commitment to a communications ‘black spot’ program; Support for community radio – which ﬁlls the gaps left by bigger providers, particularly in emergencies such as bushﬁres or ﬂoods. Our Plan
Support for community radio – which ﬁlls the gaps left by bigger providers, particularly in emergencies such as bushﬁres or ﬂoods. Our Plan We will bring down the regulatory barriers that discourage private enterprise from entering the communications market, to provide parity of service and price to regional Australians.
Our Plan We will bring down the regulatory barriers that discourage private enterprise from entering the communications market, to provide parity of service and price to regional Australians. In this new regulatory environment, we will reward initiative and support those providers servicing the regions.
We will bring down the regulatory barriers that discourage private enterprise from entering the communications market, to provide parity of service and price to regional Australians. In this new regulatory environment, we will reward initiative and support those providers servicing the regions. No single technology or network can provide efﬁcient and cost-effective communications services, in particular broadband, to all regional areas.
In this new regulatory environment, we will reward initiative and support those providers servicing the regions. No single technology or network can provide efﬁcient and cost-effective communications services, in particular broadband, to all regional areas. We must develop a suite of communications infrastructure appropriate to the vast array of regional needs, taking into account the diversity of Australia’s regional communities – including the supply of satellite phone services to remote towns.
No single technology or network can provide efﬁcient and cost-effective communications services, in particular broadband, to all regional areas. We must develop a suite of communications infrastructure appropriate to the vast array of regional needs, taking into account the diversity of Australia’s regional communities – including the supply of satellite phone services to remote towns. To fully integrate regional Australians into the global community, communications infrastructure must be fast-tracked in areas of greatest need.
We must develop a suite of communications infrastructure appropriate to the vast array of regional needs, taking into account the diversity of Australia’s regional communities – including the supply of satellite phone services to remote towns. To fully integrate regional Australians into the global community, communications infrastructure must be fast-tracked in areas of greatest need. While the market will almost always meet the communications needs of those in the capital cities, government intervention is necessary to ensure market failure gaps are ﬁlled and the needs of regional and remote parts of Australia are met
To fully integrate regional Australians into the global community, communications infrastructure must be fast-tracked in areas of greatest need. While the market will almost always meet the communications needs of those in the capital cities, government intervention is necessary to ensure market failure gaps are ﬁlled and the needs of regional and remote parts of Australia are met The Nationals in government will ensure that the Telecommunication Universal Service Provider is required to establish a face-to-face presence in rural Australia.
While the market will almost always meet the communications needs of those in the capital cities, government intervention is necessary to ensure market failure gaps are ﬁlled and the needs of regional and remote parts of Australia are met The Nationals in government will ensure that the Telecommunication Universal Service Provider is required to establish a face-to-face presence in rural Australia. Broadband
The Nationals in government will ensure that the Telecommunication Universal Service Provider is required to establish a face-to-face presence in rural Australia. Broadband The rollout of a fast and cost-effective broadband network to transcend distances, so regional Australians can be real-time active players in national and global digital economies, is a priority for The Nationals.
Broadband The rollout of a fast and cost-effective broadband network to transcend distances, so regional Australians can be real-time active players in national and global digital economies, is a priority for The Nationals. Lack of access to infrastructure is a major obstacle to new telecommunications companies competing in regional areas
The rollout of a fast and cost-effective broadband network to transcend distances, so regional Australians can be real-time active players in national and global digital economies, is a priority for The Nationals. Lack of access to infrastructure is a major obstacle to new telecommunications companies competing in regional areas More often than not, carriers ﬁnd the cost of establishing new infrastructure in regional and remote areas is prohibitive, particularly when they are unsure of market demand.
Lack of access to infrastructure is a major obstacle to new telecommunications companies competing in regional areas More often than not, carriers ﬁnd the cost of establishing new infrastructure in regional and remote areas is prohibitive, particularly when they are unsure of market demand. Typically, lower population densities cannot deliver the economies of scale required to generate investment
More often than not, carriers ﬁnd the cost of establishing new infrastructure in regional and remote areas is prohibitive, particularly when they are unsure of market demand. Typically, lower population densities cannot deliver the economies of scale required to generate investment Where the market cannot sustain a variety of networks in regional areas, The Nationals insist that government has a responsibility to ensure an affordable single network is available.
Typically, lower population densities cannot deliver the economies of scale required to generate investment Where the market cannot sustain a variety of networks in regional areas, The Nationals insist that government has a responsibility to ensure an affordable single network is available. Public and private partnerships can be an appropriate and innovative vehicle for delivering such telecommunications infrastructure.
Where the market cannot sustain a variety of networks in regional areas, The Nationals insist that government has a responsibility to ensure an affordable single network is available. Public and private partnerships can be an appropriate and innovative vehicle for delivering such telecommunications infrastructure. Labor has fundamentally misunderstood the market and the problem
Public and private partnerships can be an appropriate and innovative vehicle for delivering such telecommunications infrastructure. Labor has fundamentally misunderstood the market and the problem Broadband speeds of 100Mbps are already available to commercial and home users in some capital cities where, as demand grows for higher speeds, the market will continue to provide.
Labor has fundamentally misunderstood the market and the problem Broadband speeds of 100Mbps are already available to commercial and home users in some capital cities where, as demand grows for higher speeds, the market will continue to provide. The federal government does not need to help these providers, but does have a role in helping regional areas where the commercial case is not strong enough to drive the delivery of high-speed services
Broadband speeds of 100Mbps are already available to commercial and home users in some capital cities where, as demand grows for higher speeds, the market will continue to provide. The federal government does not need to help these providers, but does have a role in helping regional areas where the commercial case is not strong enough to drive the delivery of high-speed services In regional Australia, the greatest productivity gains will be made from high-speed broadband
The federal government does not need to help these providers, but does have a role in helping regional areas where the commercial case is not strong enough to drive the delivery of high-speed services In regional Australia, the greatest productivity gains will be made from high-speed broadband The Nationals’ policy is to place a priority on rolling out ﬁbre optic cable to the majority of consumers in regional Australia ﬁrst – that is, before cable rollout occurs in areas where competition could already be driving provision of higher broadband speeds.
In regional Australia, the greatest productivity gains will be made from high-speed broadband The Nationals’ policy is to place a priority on rolling out ﬁbre optic cable to the majority of consumers in regional Australia ﬁrst – that is, before cable rollout occurs in areas where competition could already be driving provision of higher broadband speeds. While ﬁbre optic cable is regarded as the preferred data carrying technology for the foreseeable future, other technologies such as wireless (ﬁxed and mobile) and satellite continue to develop, delivering ever-faster data speeds
The Nationals’ policy is to place a priority on rolling out ﬁbre optic cable to the majority of consumers in regional Australia ﬁrst – that is, before cable rollout occurs in areas where competition could already be driving provision of higher broadband speeds. While ﬁbre optic cable is regarded as the preferred data carrying technology for the foreseeable future, other technologies such as wireless (ﬁxed and mobile) and satellite continue to develop, delivering ever-faster data speeds These technologies may provide innovative, effective and efﬁcient answers to many of the communications problems presented by Australia’s unique population spread.
While ﬁbre optic cable is regarded as the preferred data carrying technology for the foreseeable future, other technologies such as wireless (ﬁxed and mobile) and satellite continue to develop, delivering ever-faster data speeds These technologies may provide innovative, effective and efﬁcient answers to many of the communications problems presented by Australia’s unique population spread. The Nationals support the continuing extension of the optic ﬁbre network to regional and remote communities currently relying on wireless and microwave technology
These technologies may provide innovative, effective and efﬁcient answers to many of the communications problems presented by Australia’s unique population spread. The Nationals support the continuing extension of the optic ﬁbre network to regional and remote communities currently relying on wireless and microwave technology We support the continued presence of Telstra in regional communities, including the physical presence of Telstra Country Wide ofﬁces in strategic locations.
The Nationals support the continuing extension of the optic ﬁbre network to regional and remote communities currently relying on wireless and microwave technology We support the continued presence of Telstra in regional communities, including the physical presence of Telstra Country Wide ofﬁces in strategic locations. $2 billion Communications Fund
We support the continued presence of Telstra in regional communities, including the physical presence of Telstra Country Wide ofﬁces in strategic locations. $2 billion Communications Fund Mobile phone coverage is a continuing challenge
$2 billion Communications Fund Mobile phone coverage is a continuing challenge The service will not be provided in some parts of Australia unless supported by both government and community.
Mobile phone coverage is a continuing challenge The service will not be provided in some parts of Australia unless supported by both government and community. The previous Coalition Government established a standing $2 billion Communications Fund to ensure perpetual upgrades to new technologies and services to regional Australia as they became available
The service will not be provided in some parts of Australia unless supported by both government and community. The previous Coalition Government established a standing $2 billion Communications Fund to ensure perpetual upgrades to new technologies and services to regional Australia as they became available – in essence ‘future prooﬁng’ regional Australia in the fast-paced ﬁeld of technology advances
The previous Coalition Government established a standing $2 billion Communications Fund to ensure perpetual upgrades to new technologies and services to regional Australia as they became available – in essence ‘future prooﬁng’ regional Australia in the fast-paced ﬁeld of technology advances A central plank of our telecommunications plan for regional Australia is reinstating the Communications Fund, to ensure that regional telecommunications services – and the families, businesses and entire communities rely on them – are not left with antiquated technologies and/or services and allowed to fall behind the rest of Australia and the world.
– in essence ‘future prooﬁng’ regional Australia in the fast-paced ﬁeld of technology advances A central plank of our telecommunications plan for regional Australia is reinstating the Communications Fund, to ensure that regional telecommunications services – and the families, businesses and entire communities rely on them – are not left with antiquated technologies and/or services and allowed to fall behind the rest of Australia and the world. Black spot program
A central plank of our telecommunications plan for regional Australia is reinstating the Communications Fund, to ensure that regional telecommunications services – and the families, businesses and entire communities rely on them – are not left with antiquated technologies and/or services and allowed to fall behind the rest of Australia and the world. Black spot program We will also reinstate a mobile phone ‘black spot’ program to identify and redress areas of poor mobile phone reception and to ensure that mobile networks are affordable.
Black spot program We will also reinstate a mobile phone ‘black spot’ program to identify and redress areas of poor mobile phone reception and to ensure that mobile networks are affordable. The Nationals will ensure sufﬁcient digital TV broadcasting towers in regional Australia to guarantee acceptable reception to viewers before switching off the analogue terrestrial signal, including the update of 600 self-help sites across Australia at no additional cost to consumers.
We will also reinstate a mobile phone ‘black spot’ program to identify and redress areas of poor mobile phone reception and to ensure that mobile networks are affordable. The Nationals will ensure sufﬁcient digital TV broadcasting towers in regional Australia to guarantee acceptable reception to viewers before switching off the analogue terrestrial signal, including the update of 600 self-help sites across Australia at no additional cost to consumers. World-class communications infrastructure and services are a priority for any government and requires ongoing policy development and management
The Nationals will ensure sufﬁcient digital TV broadcasting towers in regional Australia to guarantee acceptable reception to viewers before switching off the analogue terrestrial signal, including the update of 600 self-help sites across Australia at no additional cost to consumers. World-class communications infrastructure and services are a priority for any government and requires ongoing policy development and management This will offer the ability to all Australians to keep pace with existing technologies and the next generation of technological development.
World-class communications infrastructure and services are a priority for any government and requires ongoing policy development and management This will offer the ability to all Australians to keep pace with existing technologies and the next generation of technological development. Spending tens of billions of dollars and laying cable all over the country will not ﬁx prevailing problems, nor safeguard Australians – especially, susceptible regional Australians – against growing disparities as new technologies come online.
This will offer the ability to all Australians to keep pace with existing technologies and the next generation of technological development. Spending tens of billions of dollars and laying cable all over the country will not ﬁx prevailing problems, nor safeguard Australians – especially, susceptible regional Australians – against growing disparities as new technologies come online. The Nationals’ approach strikes a competitive balance between carriers, establishes a fair and transparent regulatory structure, and accommodates new technologies and solutions as they become available, to deliver timely, effective and affordable services suitable for all Australians.
Spending tens of billions of dollars and laying cable all over the country will not ﬁx prevailing problems, nor safeguard Australians – especially, susceptible regional Australians – against growing disparities as new technologies come online. The Nationals’ approach strikes a competitive balance between carriers, establishes a fair and transparent regulatory structure, and accommodates new technologies and solutions as they become available, to deliver timely, effective and affordable services suitable for all Australians. Trade
The Nationals’ approach strikes a competitive balance between carriers, establishes a fair and transparent regulatory structure, and accommodates new technologies and solutions as they become available, to deliver timely, effective and affordable services suitable for all Australians. Trade – DRIVING REGIONAL ECONOMIES TO BUILD A STRONGER AUSTRALIA
Trade – DRIVING REGIONAL ECONOMIES TO BUILD A STRONGER AUSTRALIA International trade is a major driver of growth for regional Australia
– DRIVING REGIONAL ECONOMIES TO BUILD A STRONGER AUSTRALIA International trade is a major driver of growth for regional Australia It creates new jobs, improves living standards and ensures our future as a prosperous nation.
International trade is a major driver of growth for regional Australia It creates new jobs, improves living standards and ensures our future as a prosperous nation. One-in-four jobs in regional Australia is directly or indirectly linked to exports
It creates new jobs, improves living standards and ensures our future as a prosperous nation. One-in-four jobs in regional Australia is directly or indirectly linked to exports When The Nationals were in government, exports from regional Australia grew three times faster than exports from major cities
One-in-four jobs in regional Australia is directly or indirectly linked to exports When The Nationals were in government, exports from regional Australia grew three times faster than exports from major cities About a quarter of regional Australia’s income now comes from exports.
When The Nationals were in government, exports from regional Australia grew three times faster than exports from major cities About a quarter of regional Australia’s income now comes from exports. Trade is a two-way street
About a quarter of regional Australia’s income now comes from exports. Trade is a two-way street Australia will continue to import the ﬁnance, technology and innovation needed to develop the country and to make our industries more competitive
Trade is a two-way street Australia will continue to import the ﬁnance, technology and innovation needed to develop the country and to make our industries more competitive We also need to import consumer goods we do not produce, and to use imports to ensure year round supplies of seasonal foods.
Australia will continue to import the ﬁnance, technology and innovation needed to develop the country and to make our industries more competitive We also need to import consumer goods we do not produce, and to use imports to ensure year round supplies of seasonal foods. It is essential that Australia’s quarantine and inspection services receive sufﬁcient funding and support to counter any pest or disease threats, which imports may pose
We also need to import consumer goods we do not produce, and to use imports to ensure year round supplies of seasonal foods. It is essential that Australia’s quarantine and inspection services receive sufﬁcient funding and support to counter any pest or disease threats, which imports may pose , and to ensure that products being exported are of the highest standard and meet the requirements of our export markets.
It is essential that Australia’s quarantine and inspection services receive sufﬁcient funding and support to counter any pest or disease threats, which imports may pose , and to ensure that products being exported are of the highest standard and meet the requirements of our export markets. Only The Nationals can ensure that regional Australia receives its fair share of the beneﬁts generated by our export industries,
, and to ensure that products being exported are of the highest standard and meet the requirements of our export markets. Only The Nationals can ensure that regional Australia receives its fair share of the beneﬁts generated by our export industries, and that the regions are provided with the infrastructure and services necessary for these export industries to grow and prosper
Only The Nationals can ensure that regional Australia receives its fair share of the beneﬁts generated by our export industries, and that the regions are provided with the infrastructure and services necessary for these export industries to grow and prosper We will ﬁght to ensure better access to international markets for our farmers, manufacturers, miners and service providers
and that the regions are provided with the infrastructure and services necessary for these export industries to grow and prosper We will ﬁght to ensure better access to international markets for our farmers, manufacturers, miners and service providers We will ensure that our science-based quarantine services are properly resourced to protect Australia’s disease-free status.
We will ﬁght to ensure better access to international markets for our farmers, manufacturers, miners and service providers We will ensure that our science-based quarantine services are properly resourced to protect Australia’s disease-free status. Our Plan
We will ensure that our science-based quarantine services are properly resourced to protect Australia’s disease-free status. Our Plan Support for exporters
Our Plan Support for exporters The Nationals will stimulate new investment and new export jobs in regional Australia
Support for exporters The Nationals will stimulate new investment and new export jobs in regional Australia We will introduce new, targeted incentives for exporters and provide certainty in existing programs to support regional businesses.
The Nationals will stimulate new investment and new export jobs in regional Australia We will introduce new, targeted incentives for exporters and provide certainty in existing programs to support regional businesses. Our industrial relations policies will ensure that maximum efﬁciency is maintained on the waterfront and other areas of frontline export activity.
We will introduce new, targeted incentives for exporters and provide certainty in existing programs to support regional businesses. Our industrial relations policies will ensure that maximum efﬁciency is maintained on the waterfront and other areas of frontline export activity. We will provide the infrastructure support – roads, rail, ports and telecommunications – to enable our regions to compete on fair terms with city based businesses
Our industrial relations policies will ensure that maximum efﬁciency is maintained on the waterfront and other areas of frontline export activity. We will provide the infrastructure support – roads, rail, ports and telecommunications – to enable our regions to compete on fair terms with city based businesses We will ensure that Australian businesses can compete fairly against imports, and we will ensure that Australia’s disease-free status is protected.
We will provide the infrastructure support – roads, rail, ports and telecommunications – to enable our regions to compete on fair terms with city based businesses We will ensure that Australian businesses can compete fairly against imports, and we will ensure that Australia’s disease-free status is protected. We will continue to support the live animal export trade and the further enhancement of animal welfare within the trade, in partnership with Australia’s trading partners
We will ensure that Australian businesses can compete fairly against imports, and we will ensure that Australia’s disease-free status is protected. We will continue to support the live animal export trade and the further enhancement of animal welfare within the trade, in partnership with Australia’s trading partners We support the retention of an independent industry body to address grower concerns on quality assurance, port access for all exporters and transparency of stock information; so that all grain exporters can bid for grower’s grain with conﬁdence, maximising the returns to the producer.
We will continue to support the live animal export trade and the further enhancement of animal welfare within the trade, in partnership with Australia’s trading partners We support the retention of an independent industry body to address grower concerns on quality assurance, port access for all exporters and transparency of stock information; so that all grain exporters can bid for grower’s grain with conﬁdence, maximising the returns to the producer. New markets
We support the retention of an independent industry body to address grower concerns on quality assurance, port access for all exporters and transparency of stock information; so that all grain exporters can bid for grower’s grain with conﬁdence, maximising the returns to the producer. New markets In the international arena, The Nationals will pursue a policy of multilateral and bilateral trade negotiations and trade promotion
New markets In the international arena, The Nationals will pursue a policy of multilateral and bilateral trade negotiations and trade promotion We will support new trade agreements that deliver genuine new commercial opportunities to our farm, mining, manufacturing and service sectors.
In the international arena, The Nationals will pursue a policy of multilateral and bilateral trade negotiations and trade promotion We will support new trade agreements that deliver genuine new commercial opportunities to our farm, mining, manufacturing and service sectors. In October 2011, Labor abandoned the Doha Round, declaring it dead and, instead, announced it would pursue sector-by-sector deals with our trading partners.
We will support new trade agreements that deliver genuine new commercial opportunities to our farm, mining, manufacturing and service sectors. In October 2011, Labor abandoned the Doha Round, declaring it dead and, instead, announced it would pursue sector-by-sector deals with our trading partners. The Nationals insist that any bilateral or multilateral trade agreements must be comprehensive and all-inclusive
In October 2011, Labor abandoned the Doha Round, declaring it dead and, instead, announced it would pursue sector-by-sector deals with our trading partners. The Nationals insist that any bilateral or multilateral trade agreements must be comprehensive and all-inclusive Agriculture remains the most distorted area of global trade, with our farmers suffering at the hands of protectionist trade barriers – such as the subsidies, tariffs and quotas applied in many destination markets.
The Nationals insist that any bilateral or multilateral trade agreements must be comprehensive and all-inclusive Agriculture remains the most distorted area of global trade, with our farmers suffering at the hands of protectionist trade barriers – such as the subsidies, tariffs and quotas applied in many destination markets. With agriculture the single greatest stumbling block to the Doha Round, farm products are often the ﬁrst targeted for carve outs in any sector-by-sector negotiations
Agriculture remains the most distorted area of global trade, with our farmers suffering at the hands of protectionist trade barriers – such as the subsidies, tariffs and quotas applied in many destination markets. With agriculture the single greatest stumbling block to the Doha Round, farm products are often the ﬁrst targeted for carve outs in any sector-by-sector negotiations We will use the World Trade Organisation dispute settlement system aggressively to remove barriers to Australian exports and to ensure that international trade rules are open, fair and enforceable
With agriculture the single greatest stumbling block to the Doha Round, farm products are often the ﬁrst targeted for carve outs in any sector-by-sector negotiations We will use the World Trade Organisation dispute settlement system aggressively to remove barriers to Australian exports and to ensure that international trade rules are open, fair and enforceable We will establish the senior position of Ambassador for Trade Reform to promote further trade reform internationally
We will use the World Trade Organisation dispute settlement system aggressively to remove barriers to Australian exports and to ensure that international trade rules are open, fair and enforceable We will establish the senior position of Ambassador for Trade Reform to promote further trade reform internationally We will restore the position of Trade Representative for Australia’s agricultural industries and will establish two new roles: Trade Representative for Australia’s manufacturing industries and Trade Representative for Australia’s service industries.
We will establish the senior position of Ambassador for Trade Reform to promote further trade reform internationally We will restore the position of Trade Representative for Australia’s agricultural industries and will establish two new roles: Trade Representative for Australia’s manufacturing industries and Trade Representative for Australia’s service industries. Free Trade Agreements
We will restore the position of Trade Representative for Australia’s agricultural industries and will establish two new roles: Trade Representative for Australia’s manufacturing industries and Trade Representative for Australia’s service industries. Free Trade Agreements The Nationals will continue to negotiate Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with our major trading partners and will seek opportunities for regional agreements, but only where substantial additional commercial beneﬁts to Australia can be demonstrated and delivered.
Free Trade Agreements The Nationals will continue to negotiate Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with our major trading partners and will seek opportunities for regional agreements, but only where substantial additional commercial beneﬁts to Australia can be demonstrated and delivered. We will restore the effort to complete ambitious and comprehensive new FTAs with our biggest trading partners, including China, Japan, Korea, India and the Gulf Co-operation Council.
The Nationals will continue to negotiate Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with our major trading partners and will seek opportunities for regional agreements, but only where substantial additional commercial beneﬁts to Australia can be demonstrated and delivered. We will restore the effort to complete ambitious and comprehensive new FTAs with our biggest trading partners, including China, Japan, Korea, India and the Gulf Co-operation Council. The Nationals will support international treaties where they are beneﬁcial to Australia – in particular, where they facilitate trade for Australia.
We will restore the effort to complete ambitious and comprehensive new FTAs with our biggest trading partners, including China, Japan, Korea, India and the Gulf Co-operation Council. The Nationals will support international treaties where they are beneﬁcial to Australia – in particular, where they facilitate trade for Australia. Industry Support
The Nationals will support international treaties where they are beneﬁcial to Australia – in particular, where they facilitate trade for Australia. Industry Support The Nationals will develop a new regional centres network to provide quick and efﬁcient support for new exporting industries, particularly the services industry.
Industry Support The Nationals will develop a new regional centres network to provide quick and efﬁcient support for new exporting industries, particularly the services industry. We will increase funding for the Export Markets Development Grants Scheme and provide certainty of payment.
The Nationals will develop a new regional centres network to provide quick and efﬁcient support for new exporting industries, particularly the services industry. We will increase funding for the Export Markets Development Grants Scheme and provide certainty of payment. We will introduce new programs to increase Australia’s services exports and to assist niche export sectors to compete in global supply chains and to increase food and beverage export sales in key markets
We will increase funding for the Export Markets Development Grants Scheme and provide certainty of payment. We will introduce new programs to increase Australia’s services exports and to assist niche export sectors to compete in global supply chains and to increase food and beverage export sales in key markets The Nationals will reduce the cost of quarantine export inspections by reinstating the 40% cost-sharing arrangement for export inspection services, which Labor abolished.
We will introduce new programs to increase Australia’s services exports and to assist niche export sectors to compete in global supply chains and to increase food and beverage export sales in key markets The Nationals will reduce the cost of quarantine export inspections by reinstating the 40% cost-sharing arrangement for export inspection services, which Labor abolished. We will ensure that our quarantine authorities receive the funding necessary to protect Australia from introduced pests and diseases.
The Nationals will reduce the cost of quarantine export inspections by reinstating the 40% cost-sharing arrangement for export inspection services, which Labor abolished. We will ensure that our quarantine authorities receive the funding necessary to protect Australia from introduced pests and diseases. Our Import Risk Assessment process will continue to be based on sound science
We will ensure that our quarantine authorities receive the funding necessary to protect Australia from introduced pests and diseases. Our Import Risk Assessment process will continue to be based on sound science We will not take reckless risks – as Labor has done – with our nation’s irreplaceable pest- and disease-free status.
Our Import Risk Assessment process will continue to be based on sound science We will not take reckless risks – as Labor has done – with our nation’s irreplaceable pest- and disease-free status. The Nationals remain fervent supporters of anti-dumping measures and, upon return to government, will ensure that the importation of cheap paper products from Indonesia and China does not impact unfairly on Australian producers.
We will not take reckless risks – as Labor has done – with our nation’s irreplaceable pest- and disease-free status. The Nationals remain fervent supporters of anti-dumping measures and, upon return to government, will ensure that the importation of cheap paper products from Indonesia and China does not impact unfairly on Australian producers. Transport
The Nationals remain fervent supporters of anti-dumping measures and, upon return to government, will ensure that the importation of cheap paper products from Indonesia and China does not impact unfairly on Australian producers. Transport – A STRATEGIC OVERHAUL TO LINK NETWORKS AND DRIVE EFFICIENCIES
Transport – A STRATEGIC OVERHAUL TO LINK NETWORKS AND DRIVE EFFICIENCIES The Nationals understand the importance of transport infrastructure – by road, rail, air and sea – to regional Australia
– A STRATEGIC OVERHAUL TO LINK NETWORKS AND DRIVE EFFICIENCIES The Nationals understand the importance of transport infrastructure – by road, rail, air and sea – to regional Australia We know that people and businesses in regional Australia must rely on modern transport networks for their livelihoods and lifestyles.
The Nationals understand the importance of transport infrastructure – by road, rail, air and sea – to regional Australia We know that people and businesses in regional Australia must rely on modern transport networks for their livelihoods and lifestyles. Only The Nationals can ensure that families in regional Australia have a safe, secure, reliable and affordable transport system
We know that people and businesses in regional Australia must rely on modern transport networks for their livelihoods and lifestyles. Only The Nationals can ensure that families in regional Australia have a safe, secure, reliable and affordable transport system The Nationals will ensure that regional Australia receives its fair share of national infrastructure spending.
Only The Nationals can ensure that families in regional Australia have a safe, secure, reliable and affordable transport system The Nationals will ensure that regional Australia receives its fair share of national infrastructure spending. Under a succession of Nationals Federal Transport Ministers, Australia gained improved transport infrastructure and services
The Nationals will ensure that regional Australia receives its fair share of national infrastructure spending. Under a succession of Nationals Federal Transport Ministers, Australia gained improved transport infrastructure and services The AusLink initiative, in particular, for the ﬁrst time brought an integrated approach to the nation’s road and rail transport needs, with the funding to achieve it.
Under a succession of Nationals Federal Transport Ministers, Australia gained improved transport infrastructure and services The AusLink initiative, in particular, for the ﬁrst time brought an integrated approach to the nation’s road and rail transport needs, with the funding to achieve it. Under Labor, Australia’s transport plans are unravelling, replaced by the same short-sighted political decision-making and deal-making that has brought state Labor government transport systems to their knees.
The AusLink initiative, in particular, for the ﬁrst time brought an integrated approach to the nation’s road and rail transport needs, with the funding to achieve it. Under Labor, Australia’s transport plans are unravelling, replaced by the same short-sighted political decision-making and deal-making that has brought state Labor government transport systems to their knees. The Nationals retain a clear vision of Australia’s transport needs, and how to meet them
Under Labor, Australia’s transport plans are unravelling, replaced by the same short-sighted political decision-making and deal-making that has brought state Labor government transport systems to their knees. The Nationals retain a clear vision of Australia’s transport needs, and how to meet them Our co-ordinated policy solutions will allow regional Australia and the nation to meet the transport challenges of the next 20 years and beyond.
The Nationals retain a clear vision of Australia’s transport needs, and how to meet them Our co-ordinated policy solutions will allow regional Australia and the nation to meet the transport challenges of the next 20 years and beyond. Our Plan
Our co-ordinated policy solutions will allow regional Australia and the nation to meet the transport challenges of the next 20 years and beyond. Our Plan Rail and a burgeoning freight task
Our Plan Rail and a burgeoning freight task With Australia’s national freight load set to double by 2030 – and treble along the eastern seaboard – an enormous effort must be made to expand and modernise our interstate and regional rail systems.
Rail and a burgeoning freight task With Australia’s national freight load set to double by 2030 – and treble along the eastern seaboard – an enormous effort must be made to expand and modernise our interstate and regional rail systems. The Nationals understand that a seamless and efﬁcient rail network is essential to moving our regional produce to market, enhancing productivity growth and international competitiveness.
With Australia’s national freight load set to double by 2030 – and treble along the eastern seaboard – an enormous effort must be made to expand and modernise our interstate and regional rail systems. The Nationals understand that a seamless and efﬁcient rail network is essential to moving our regional produce to market, enhancing productivity growth and international competitiveness. The Nationals will build the inland rail from Melbourne through the Central West of NSW to Brisbane
The Nationals understand that a seamless and efﬁcient rail network is essential to moving our regional produce to market, enhancing productivity growth and international competitiveness. The Nationals will build the inland rail from Melbourne through the Central West of NSW to Brisbane This ‘Steel Mississippi’ will reduce the time required to move freight from Melbourne to Brisbane from 36 hours to less than 24, dramatically lifting rail’s share of freight and providing signiﬁcant environmental and social beneﬁts.
The Nationals will build the inland rail from Melbourne through the Central West of NSW to Brisbane This ‘Steel Mississippi’ will reduce the time required to move freight from Melbourne to Brisbane from 36 hours to less than 24, dramatically lifting rail’s share of freight and providing signiﬁcant environmental and social beneﬁts. The inland rail project will be completed by around 2025 and will be managed by the Australian Rail Track Corporation in partnership with the private sector
This ‘Steel Mississippi’ will reduce the time required to move freight from Melbourne to Brisbane from 36 hours to less than 24, dramatically lifting rail’s share of freight and providing signiﬁcant environmental and social beneﬁts. The inland rail project will be completed by around 2025 and will be managed by the Australian Rail Track Corporation in partnership with the private sector The Nationals will ensure that any existing regional hub lines, which feed into the main inland rail line are appropriately upgraded and, where necessary, new lines are constructed
The inland rail project will be completed by around 2025 and will be managed by the Australian Rail Track Corporation in partnership with the private sector The Nationals will ensure that any existing regional hub lines, which feed into the main inland rail line are appropriately upgraded and, where necessary, new lines are constructed State Labor governments neglected country branch lines and many have fallen into disrepair
The Nationals will ensure that any existing regional hub lines, which feed into the main inland rail line are appropriately upgraded and, where necessary, new lines are constructed State Labor governments neglected country branch lines and many have fallen into disrepair Millions of tonnes of grain must now be moved to port by private truck, damaging our regional roads and increasing trafﬁc congestion
State Labor governments neglected country branch lines and many have fallen into disrepair Millions of tonnes of grain must now be moved to port by private truck, damaging our regional roads and increasing trafﬁc congestion Our reputation as a reliable supplier of grain has been badly compromised by this inability to move grain to ports on time, resulting in lost contracts and lower returns to growers.
Millions of tonnes of grain must now be moved to port by private truck, damaging our regional roads and increasing trafﬁc congestion Our reputation as a reliable supplier of grain has been badly compromised by this inability to move grain to ports on time, resulting in lost contracts and lower returns to growers. We are fully committed to rail as the preferred mode of transport for grain and, in government, will work towards the provision of equitable access to freight rail to allow all grain growers to take advantage of domestic and export marketing options.
Our reputation as a reliable supplier of grain has been badly compromised by this inability to move grain to ports on time, resulting in lost contracts and lower returns to growers. We are fully committed to rail as the preferred mode of transport for grain and, in government, will work towards the provision of equitable access to freight rail to allow all grain growers to take advantage of domestic and export marketing options. The Nationals will provide funding, matched by the states, to restore key country freight lines
We are fully committed to rail as the preferred mode of transport for grain and, in government, will work towards the provision of equitable access to freight rail to allow all grain growers to take advantage of domestic and export marketing options. The Nationals will provide funding, matched by the states, to restore key country freight lines We will also continue to upgrade the MelbourneSydney-Brisbane coastal rail link
The Nationals will provide funding, matched by the states, to restore key country freight lines We will also continue to upgrade the MelbourneSydney-Brisbane coastal rail link We will ensure state-of- the-art train control systems and seamless transit at state borders.
We will also continue to upgrade the MelbourneSydney-Brisbane coastal rail link We will ensure state-of- the-art train control systems and seamless transit at state borders. We will seek to complete the extension of the national network to incorporate the Kalgoorlie to Perth section, to deliver a single standard gauge rail link connecting our mainland capitals.
We will ensure state-of- the-art train control systems and seamless transit at state borders. We will seek to complete the extension of the national network to incorporate the Kalgoorlie to Perth section, to deliver a single standard gauge rail link connecting our mainland capitals. A new approach to roads
We will seek to complete the extension of the national network to incorporate the Kalgoorlie to Perth section, to deliver a single standard gauge rail link connecting our mainland capitals. A new approach to roads The Nationals will implement the third stage of AusLink, investing minimum funding of $35 billion.
A new approach to roads The Nationals will implement the third stage of AusLink, investing minimum funding of $35 billion. AusLink 3 will be funded by allocating 20 cents per litre from the Commonwealth fuel excise to AusLink
The Nationals will implement the third stage of AusLink, investing minimum funding of $35 billion. AusLink 3 will be funded by allocating 20 cents per litre from the Commonwealth fuel excise to AusLink The rate of excise will not be increased
AusLink 3 will be funded by allocating 20 cents per litre from the Commonwealth fuel excise to AusLink The rate of excise will not be increased The Nationals will ensure that a minimum of 50% of the funds is allocated to regional projects.
The rate of excise will not be increased The Nationals will ensure that a minimum of 50% of the funds is allocated to regional projects. The Nationals developed the successful Roads to Recovery program, which provided local councils with extra funding to maintain and upgrade their local roads
The Nationals will ensure that a minimum of 50% of the funds is allocated to regional projects. The Nationals developed the successful Roads to Recovery program, which provided local councils with extra funding to maintain and upgrade their local roads The Nationals will continue and expand this program in government.
The Nationals developed the successful Roads to Recovery program, which provided local councils with extra funding to maintain and upgrade their local roads The Nationals will continue and expand this program in government. We will restore the Strategic Regional Roads program, which supports major regional connections and creates jobs, and we will include agricultural productivity as one criterion when allocating funding.
The Nationals will continue and expand this program in government. We will restore the Strategic Regional Roads program, which supports major regional connections and creates jobs, and we will include agricultural productivity as one criterion when allocating funding. We will address the neglect of small road bridges on secondary freight routes
We will restore the Strategic Regional Roads program, which supports major regional connections and creates jobs, and we will include agricultural productivity as one criterion when allocating funding. We will address the neglect of small road bridges on secondary freight routes For regional Australia, small road bridges have great economic signiﬁcance, allowing trucks to move goods and produce on to the national highway system and to shipping ports.
We will address the neglect of small road bridges on secondary freight routes For regional Australia, small road bridges have great economic signiﬁcance, allowing trucks to move goods and produce on to the national highway system and to shipping ports. We will ensure that funding is allocated in partnership with local councils and state governments to repair or replace bridges no longer capable of carrying heavy vehicles.
For regional Australia, small road bridges have great economic signiﬁcance, allowing trucks to move goods and produce on to the national highway system and to shipping ports. We will ensure that funding is allocated in partnership with local councils and state governments to repair or replace bridges no longer capable of carrying heavy vehicles. The Nationals will ensure that our regional roads are safer
We will ensure that funding is allocated in partnership with local councils and state governments to repair or replace bridges no longer capable of carrying heavy vehicles. The Nationals will ensure that our regional roads are safer We will work with automobile associations and with organisations like Rotary to implement new driver training programs for young drivers.
The Nationals will ensure that our regional roads are safer We will work with automobile associations and with organisations like Rotary to implement new driver training programs for young drivers. We will require all new cars sold in Australia in volume to carry an Australian National Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) star safety rating.
We will work with automobile associations and with organisations like Rotary to implement new driver training programs for young drivers. We will require all new cars sold in Australia in volume to carry an Australian National Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) star safety rating. We will provide funding for the installation of seatbelts in local school buses and will make funding available to help install air conditioning in hotter areas.
We will require all new cars sold in Australia in volume to carry an Australian National Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) star safety rating. We will provide funding for the installation of seatbelts in local school buses and will make funding available to help install air conditioning in hotter areas. We will continue the funding to construct 500 new roadside stops for our truck drivers.
We will provide funding for the installation of seatbelts in local school buses and will make funding available to help install air conditioning in hotter areas. We will continue the funding to construct 500 new roadside stops for our truck drivers. We will request a comprehensive review of the effectiveness of booster seats, to maximise the safety afforded to children in motor vehicles
We will continue the funding to construct 500 new roadside stops for our truck drivers. We will request a comprehensive review of the effectiveness of booster seats, to maximise the safety afforded to children in motor vehicles The Nationals will ensure that the Australian Road Assessment Program, which measures the safety level of highways, is extended to the major secondary freight routes.
We will request a comprehensive review of the effectiveness of booster seats, to maximise the safety afforded to children in motor vehicles The Nationals will ensure that the Australian Road Assessment Program, which measures the safety level of highways, is extended to the major secondary freight routes. Regional access to aviation services
The Nationals will ensure that the Australian Road Assessment Program, which measures the safety level of highways, is extended to the major secondary freight routes. Regional access to aviation services For the seven million Australians who live outside capital cities, regional aviation is an especially important link to the rest of the nation, providing transport, goods and medical services to and from large centres.
Regional access to aviation services For the seven million Australians who live outside capital cities, regional aviation is an especially important link to the rest of the nation, providing transport, goods and medical services to and from large centres. Support for regional aviation is essential as many regional routes are of limited commercial value, with smaller carriers struggling with rising overheads and economic difﬁculties.
For the seven million Australians who live outside capital cities, regional aviation is an especially important link to the rest of the nation, providing transport, goods and medical services to and from large centres. Support for regional aviation is essential as many regional routes are of limited commercial value, with smaller carriers struggling with rising overheads and economic difﬁculties. The Nationals will retain the Remote Air Service Subsidy Scheme (RASS) so that isolated communities continue to receive a weekly passenger and freight service
Support for regional aviation is essential as many regional routes are of limited commercial value, with smaller carriers struggling with rising overheads and economic difﬁculties. The Nationals will retain the Remote Air Service Subsidy Scheme (RASS) so that isolated communities continue to receive a weekly passenger and freight service The RASS subsidises ﬂights to more than 235 communities which otherwise have no regular transport service.
The Nationals will retain the Remote Air Service Subsidy Scheme (RASS) so that isolated communities continue to receive a weekly passenger and freight service The RASS subsidises ﬂights to more than 235 communities which otherwise have no regular transport service. We will reinstate the En Route Charges Subsidy Scheme for Air Services Australia’s air navigation charges for regional airlines operating smaller aircraft and for aero-medical operators such as the Royal Flying Doctor Service
The RASS subsidises ﬂights to more than 235 communities which otherwise have no regular transport service. We will reinstate the En Route Charges Subsidy Scheme for Air Services Australia’s air navigation charges for regional airlines operating smaller aircraft and for aero-medical operators such as the Royal Flying Doctor Service The En Route Charges Scheme helps regional airlines to maintain viable services to isolated areas.
We will reinstate the En Route Charges Subsidy Scheme for Air Services Australia’s air navigation charges for regional airlines operating smaller aircraft and for aero-medical operators such as the Royal Flying Doctor Service The En Route Charges Scheme helps regional airlines to maintain viable services to isolated areas. From 1 July 2008, Labor limited the scheme to existing routes and service frequencies and from 30 June 2012 announced the scheme will be abolished for commercial regional airline operators.
The En Route Charges Scheme helps regional airlines to maintain viable services to isolated areas. From 1 July 2008, Labor limited the scheme to existing routes and service frequencies and from 30 June 2012 announced the scheme will be abolished for commercial regional airline operators. The Nationals will reopen the En Route Charges Subsidy Scheme to small regional commercial air carriers.
From 1 July 2008, Labor limited the scheme to existing routes and service frequencies and from 30 June 2012 announced the scheme will be abolished for commercial regional airline operators. The Nationals will reopen the En Route Charges Subsidy Scheme to small regional commercial air carriers. Labor has introduced mandatory security screening at a number of regional airports served by larger passenger turbo-prop aircraft.
The Nationals will reopen the En Route Charges Subsidy Scheme to small regional commercial air carriers. Labor has introduced mandatory security screening at a number of regional airports served by larger passenger turbo-prop aircraft. The ongoing cost of this requirement is not subsidised and can only be  paid for by very large ticket price increases
Labor has introduced mandatory security screening at a number of regional airports served by larger passenger turbo-prop aircraft. The ongoing cost of this requirement is not subsidised and can only be  paid for by very large ticket price increases This threatens the viability  of already marginal regional air routes.
The ongoing cost of this requirement is not subsidised and can only be  paid for by very large ticket price increases This threatens the viability  of already marginal regional air routes. The Nationals will work with regional airlines and airports to ensure that no air services are cancelled or reduced as a result of national security requirements.
This threatens the viability  of already marginal regional air routes. The Nationals will work with regional airlines and airports to ensure that no air services are cancelled or reduced as a result of national security requirements. We will continue and expand the Remote Aerodrome Safety Program to assist in the upgrade of airstrips in remote and isolated communities.
The Nationals will work with regional airlines and airports to ensure that no air services are cancelled or reduced as a result of national security requirements. We will continue and expand the Remote Aerodrome Safety Program to assist in the upgrade of airstrips in remote and isolated communities. We will also support general aviation – that part of the aviation sector not involved in regular public transport or scheduled services.
We will continue and expand the Remote Aerodrome Safety Program to assist in the upgrade of airstrips in remote and isolated communities. We will also support general aviation – that part of the aviation sector not involved in regular public transport or scheduled services. This involves small aircraft undertaking roles vital to regional Australia, such as charter and business ﬂights, aero-medical services, commercial and private pilot training, sports and recreational pursuits, and various kinds of aerial work such as agriculture and surveying.
We will also support general aviation – that part of the aviation sector not involved in regular public transport or scheduled services. This involves small aircraft undertaking roles vital to regional Australia, such as charter and business ﬂights, aero-medical services, commercial and private pilot training, sports and recreational pursuits, and various kinds of aerial work such as agriculture and surveying. The non-scheduled air and space transport sector comprises more than 1,000 businesses, employing nearly 4,000 people, and producing an industry turnover of nearly $1 billion.
This involves small aircraft undertaking roles vital to regional Australia, such as charter and business ﬂights, aero-medical services, commercial and private pilot training, sports and recreational pursuits, and various kinds of aerial work such as agriculture and surveying. The non-scheduled air and space transport sector comprises more than 1,000 businesses, employing nearly 4,000 people, and producing an industry turnover of nearly $1 billion. Australia’s general aviation ﬂeet is ageing, with the average age of an aircraft now 30 years
The non-scheduled air and space transport sector comprises more than 1,000 businesses, employing nearly 4,000 people, and producing an industry turnover of nearly $1 billion. Australia’s general aviation ﬂeet is ageing, with the average age of an aircraft now 30 years The Nationals will introduce incentives to enable business to replace aircraft used for commercial activities and to keep regional Australia ﬂying.
Australia’s general aviation ﬂeet is ageing, with the average age of an aircraft now 30 years The Nationals will introduce incentives to enable business to replace aircraft used for commercial activities and to keep regional Australia ﬂying. We will address the skill shortage in the aviation industry
The Nationals will introduce incentives to enable business to replace aircraft used for commercial activities and to keep regional Australia ﬂying. We will address the skill shortage in the aviation industry We will build on existing regional pilot training schemes such as that operated by Regional Express, including the establishment of a Regional Airline Pilots’ Scholarship Scheme.
We will address the skill shortage in the aviation industry We will build on existing regional pilot training schemes such as that operated by Regional Express, including the establishment of a Regional Airline Pilots’ Scholarship Scheme. More efﬁcient shipping
We will build on existing regional pilot training schemes such as that operated by Regional Express, including the establishment of a Regional Airline Pilots’ Scholarship Scheme. More efﬁcient shipping Coastal shipping accounts for about 25% of the domestic freight task, but produces only 4% of total transport greenhouse gas emissions
More efﬁcient shipping Coastal shipping accounts for about 25% of the domestic freight task, but produces only 4% of total transport greenhouse gas emissions A vibrant, safe and efﬁcient Australian shipping industry provides beneﬁts for the economy and the environment, easing road congestion.
Coastal shipping accounts for about 25% of the domestic freight task, but produces only 4% of total transport greenhouse gas emissions A vibrant, safe and efﬁcient Australian shipping industry provides beneﬁts for the economy and the environment, easing road congestion. The Nationals will allow Australian shipping to compete effectively against other transport modes and internationally, while retaining our national shipping identity.
A vibrant, safe and efﬁcient Australian shipping industry provides beneﬁts for the economy and the environment, easing road congestion. The Nationals will allow Australian shipping to compete effectively against other transport modes and internationally, while retaining our national shipping identity. The Nationals will:
The Nationals will allow Australian shipping to compete effectively against other transport modes and internationally, while retaining our national shipping identity. The Nationals will: Review Labor’s recent shipping reforms with a view to revising or reversing measures that hinder the competitiveness of Australia’s shipping services;
The Nationals will: Review Labor’s recent shipping reforms with a view to revising or reversing measures that hinder the competitiveness of Australia’s shipping services; We will repeal the ﬁve voyage minimum for voyage permits;
Review Labor’s recent shipping reforms with a view to revising or reversing measures that hinder the competitiveness of Australia’s shipping services; We will repeal the ﬁve voyage minimum for voyage permits; Introduce a national system of training support under the supervision of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority to replace the existing statebased distribution of funds;
We will repeal the ﬁve voyage minimum for voyage permits; Introduce a national system of training support under the supervision of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority to replace the existing statebased distribution of funds; Support measures to reduce the income tax disadvantage suffered by Australian seafarers operating outside Australian waters, compared with seafarers from other nations; and
Introduce a national system of training support under the supervision of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority to replace the existing statebased distribution of funds; Support measures to reduce the income tax disadvantage suffered by Australian seafarers operating outside Australian waters, compared with seafarers from other nations; and Support an Australian Second Shipping Register.
Support measures to reduce the income tax disadvantage suffered by Australian seafarers operating outside Australian waters, compared with seafarers from other nations; and Support an Australian Second Shipping Register. Efﬁcient port infrastructure is vital in promoting a growing maritime industry
Support an Australian Second Shipping Register. Efﬁcient port infrastructure is vital in promoting a growing maritime industry Australian ports are owned either by state governments or private enterprises regulated by the states
Efﬁcient port infrastructure is vital in promoting a growing maritime industry Australian ports are owned either by state governments or private enterprises regulated by the states As a result, port development has been uncoordinated and hindered, and the intermodal links between rail, road and shipping are grossly  inefﬁcient.
Australian ports are owned either by state governments or private enterprises regulated by the states As a result, port development has been uncoordinated and hindered, and the intermodal links between rail, road and shipping are grossly  inefﬁcient. The Nationals will implement a National Port Development Plan to address capacity constraints in our ports and facilitate the efﬁcient and swift movement of our exports.
As a result, port development has been uncoordinated and hindered, and the intermodal links between rail, road and shipping are grossly  inefﬁcient. The Nationals will implement a National Port Development Plan to address capacity constraints in our ports and facilitate the efﬁcient and swift movement of our exports. Transport Fuels
The Nationals will implement a National Port Development Plan to address capacity constraints in our ports and facilitate the efﬁcient and swift movement of our exports. Transport Fuels – PROMOTING USE OF CLEANER BIOFUELS AND LPG
Transport Fuels – PROMOTING USE OF CLEANER BIOFUELS AND LPG Australia needs a range of cleaner alternative fuels
– PROMOTING USE OF CLEANER BIOFUELS AND LPG Australia needs a range of cleaner alternative fuels LPG, ethanol blended fuel and biodiesel offer effective steps towards reducing vehicle emissions
Australia needs a range of cleaner alternative fuels LPG, ethanol blended fuel and biodiesel offer effective steps towards reducing vehicle emissions If Australia were to adopt E10 blended fuels nationwide, more than three million tonnes of pollution would be prevented.
LPG, ethanol blended fuel and biodiesel offer effective steps towards reducing vehicle emissions If Australia were to adopt E10 blended fuels nationwide, more than three million tonnes of pollution would be prevented. A robust Australian biofuels and LPG industry ensures greater security of supply in transportation fuels
If Australia were to adopt E10 blended fuels nationwide, more than three million tonnes of pollution would be prevented. A robust Australian biofuels and LPG industry ensures greater security of supply in transportation fuels The Nationals support the wider integration of E10 ethanol and B5 bio diesel into mainstream use in Australia, together with a greater uptake of LPG.
A robust Australian biofuels and LPG industry ensures greater security of supply in transportation fuels The Nationals support the wider integration of E10 ethanol and B5 bio diesel into mainstream use in Australia, together with a greater uptake of LPG. We want to see E85 blend in widespread use by 2020.
The Nationals support the wider integration of E10 ethanol and B5 bio diesel into mainstream use in Australia, together with a greater uptake of LPG. We want to see E85 blend in widespread use by 2020. Under Labor, the cleaner fuel sectors have been sent stop-start-stop signals, with alternative fuels policy implementation and uptake stalling.
We want to see E85 blend in widespread use by 2020. Under Labor, the cleaner fuel sectors have been sent stop-start-stop signals, with alternative fuels policy implementation and uptake stalling. The establishment of a thriving biofuels industry has many beneﬁts for regional Australia
Under Labor, the cleaner fuel sectors have been sent stop-start-stop signals, with alternative fuels policy implementation and uptake stalling. The establishment of a thriving biofuels industry has many beneﬁts for regional Australia Most notable are better environmental outcomes, a more diverse income source for farmers, and the jobs created by the construction and operation of reﬁnery plants.
The establishment of a thriving biofuels industry has many beneﬁts for regional Australia Most notable are better environmental outcomes, a more diverse income source for farmers, and the jobs created by the construction and operation of reﬁnery plants. The Nationals support cleaner fuels because they are good for the environment, and a substantial step toward developing national fuel self-sufﬁciency.
Most notable are better environmental outcomes, a more diverse income source for farmers, and the jobs created by the construction and operation of reﬁnery plants. The Nationals support cleaner fuels because they are good for the environment, and a substantial step toward developing national fuel self-sufﬁciency. Our Plan
The Nationals support cleaner fuels because they are good for the environment, and a substantial step toward developing national fuel self-sufﬁciency. Our Plan The Nationals take a pragmatic and decisive approach to expanding the uptake of LPG, E10 fuel blends and the development of greater biodiesel production suitable for commercial and personal use, as well as for regional industries.
Our Plan The Nationals take a pragmatic and decisive approach to expanding the uptake of LPG, E10 fuel blends and the development of greater biodiesel production suitable for commercial and personal use, as well as for regional industries. A national mandate
The Nationals take a pragmatic and decisive approach to expanding the uptake of LPG, E10 fuel blends and the development of greater biodiesel production suitable for commercial and personal use, as well as for regional industries. A national mandate A national ethanol mandate for petrol and biodiesel will be introduced by 2018.
A national mandate A national ethanol mandate for petrol and biodiesel will be introduced by 2018. Many of the states have introduced ethanol mandates, or are in the process of doing so
A national ethanol mandate for petrol and biodiesel will be introduced by 2018. Many of the states have introduced ethanol mandates, or are in the process of doing so To ensure uniformity, The Nationals in government will introduce a national mandate to ensure each state and territory has an ethanol blend
Many of the states have introduced ethanol mandates, or are in the process of doing so To ensure uniformity, The Nationals in government will introduce a national mandate to ensure each state and territory has an ethanol blend This measure forms part of an overall strategy to meet renewable fuel targets and reduce CO2 emissions.
To ensure uniformity, The Nationals in government will introduce a national mandate to ensure each state and territory has an ethanol blend This measure forms part of an overall strategy to meet renewable fuel targets and reduce CO2 emissions. In consultation with industry, we have found most local producers believe they can meet a substantial amount of Australia’s demand
This measure forms part of an overall strategy to meet renewable fuel targets and reduce CO2 emissions. In consultation with industry, we have found most local producers believe they can meet a substantial amount of Australia’s demand In order to ensure security of supply, The Nationals will support the local industry to become embedded.
In consultation with industry, we have found most local producers believe they can meet a substantial amount of Australia’s demand In order to ensure security of supply, The Nationals will support the local industry to become embedded. Domestic production excise deferral
In order to ensure security of supply, The Nationals will support the local industry to become embedded. Domestic production excise deferral To assist the environment, and the further development of a locally based ethanol and biodiesel industry, The Nationals support a deferral of the introduction of excise on these fuels.
Domestic production excise deferral To assist the environment, and the further development of a locally based ethanol and biodiesel industry, The Nationals support a deferral of the introduction of excise on these fuels. We will also ensure that imports of biofuels, which are subsidised by foreign governments, do not receive the beneﬁts of the excise rebate in Australia
To assist the environment, and the further development of a locally based ethanol and biodiesel industry, The Nationals support a deferral of the introduction of excise on these fuels. We will also ensure that imports of biofuels, which are subsidised by foreign governments, do not receive the beneﬁts of the excise rebate in Australia We will address any excise loop holes and ensure that our producers are operating on an even playing ﬁeld.
We will also ensure that imports of biofuels, which are subsidised by foreign governments, do not receive the beneﬁts of the excise rebate in Australia We will address any excise loop holes and ensure that our producers are operating on an even playing ﬁeld. Sustainability standard
We will address any excise loop holes and ensure that our producers are operating on an even playing ﬁeld. Sustainability standard The Nationals will also seek to ensure that both domestic and imported biofuels meet a sustainability standard, including the provision that, in the long-term, fuels must not be produced at the expense of food security.
Sustainability standard The Nationals will also seek to ensure that both domestic and imported biofuels meet a sustainability standard, including the provision that, in the long-term, fuels must not be produced at the expense of food security. Sustainability standards for bio fuels are being developed in several European countries and Brazil, and encourage biofuel producers to move from food stocks to non-food stock materials for fuel production.
The Nationals will also seek to ensure that both domestic and imported biofuels meet a sustainability standard, including the provision that, in the long-term, fuels must not be produced at the expense of food security. Sustainability standards for bio fuels are being developed in several European countries and Brazil, and encourage biofuel producers to move from food stocks to non-food stock materials for fuel production. Australia predominantly produces biofuels from waste or low grade products
Sustainability standards for bio fuels are being developed in several European countries and Brazil, and encourage biofuel producers to move from food stocks to non-food stock materials for fuel production. Australia predominantly produces biofuels from waste or low grade products This sustainability standard not only protects Australia’s interests, but ensures global grain trading is not artiﬁcially distorted, but is balanced, and prevents abuses of environmental or human rights in the production of biofuels.
Australia predominantly produces biofuels from waste or low grade products This sustainability standard not only protects Australia’s interests, but ensures global grain trading is not artiﬁcially distorted, but is balanced, and prevents abuses of environmental or human rights in the production of biofuels. In government we will:
This sustainability standard not only protects Australia’s interests, but ensures global grain trading is not artiﬁcially distorted, but is balanced, and prevents abuses of environmental or human rights in the production of biofuels. In government we will: Reinstate the Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Economics Report no.117, entitled ‘Transport Energy Futures – Long Term Oil Supply Trends and Projections’
In government we will: Reinstate the Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Economics Report no.117, entitled ‘Transport Energy Futures – Long Term Oil Supply Trends and Projections’ (The report was commissioned by the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport in 2007, delivered in 2009 and then quashed);
Reinstate the Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Economics Report no.117, entitled ‘Transport Energy Futures – Long Term Oil Supply Trends and Projections’ (The report was commissioned by the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport in 2007, delivered in 2009 and then quashed); In response, we will pursue a bio fuels distribution policy which assists Australia’s progress towards self-sufﬁciency in transport fuels from domestic sources.
(The report was commissioned by the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport in 2007, delivered in 2009 and then quashed); In response, we will pursue a bio fuels distribution policy which assists Australia’s progress towards self-sufﬁciency in transport fuels from domestic sources. Retail fuel costs
In response, we will pursue a bio fuels distribution policy which assists Australia’s progress towards self-sufﬁciency in transport fuels from domestic sources. Retail fuel costs The Nationals acknowledge that retail providers face the costs of updating fuel tanks to accommodate biofuels.
Retail fuel costs The Nationals acknowledge that retail providers face the costs of updating fuel tanks to accommodate biofuels. We are particularly concerned that small independent rural and remote retailers ﬁnd the transition costs prohibitive
The Nationals acknowledge that retail providers face the costs of updating fuel tanks to accommodate biofuels. We are particularly concerned that small independent rural and remote retailers ﬁnd the transition costs prohibitive We understand that petroleum storage tanks at retail outlets manufactured after 1981 are compatible with a 10% ethanol blend, but some will require new lining to prevent leakage.
We are particularly concerned that small independent rural and remote retailers ﬁnd the transition costs prohibitive We understand that petroleum storage tanks at retail outlets manufactured after 1981 are compatible with a 10% ethanol blend, but some will require new lining to prevent leakage. The Nationals will work with the states to develop funding schemes that complement the existing assistance offered by some state governments.
We understand that petroleum storage tanks at retail outlets manufactured after 1981 are compatible with a 10% ethanol blend, but some will require new lining to prevent leakage. The Nationals will work with the states to develop funding schemes that complement the existing assistance offered by some state governments. 85% biofuel blends from 2015
The Nationals will work with the states to develop funding schemes that complement the existing assistance offered by some state governments. 85% biofuel blends from 2015 Car manufacturers are often ahead of fuel suppliers in manufacturing vehicles able to use a range of ethanol blended fuels.
85% biofuel blends from 2015 Car manufacturers are often ahead of fuel suppliers in manufacturing vehicles able to use a range of ethanol blended fuels. In 2010, Holden launched its E85 ﬂex fuel vehicle, able to run on blended fuel from E10 to E85.
Car manufacturers are often ahead of fuel suppliers in manufacturing vehicles able to use a range of ethanol blended fuels. In 2010, Holden launched its E85 ﬂex fuel vehicle, able to run on blended fuel from E10 to E85. With emerging technologies now adopting higher ethanol blends, it is realistic to project that by 2020 most new Australian vehicles will be able to use the E85 blend.
In 2010, Holden launched its E85 ﬂex fuel vehicle, able to run on blended fuel from E10 to E85. With emerging technologies now adopting higher ethanol blends, it is realistic to project that by 2020 most new Australian vehicles will be able to use the E85 blend. After 2015, The Nationals’ implementation plan will be based on extending the availability of E85 blends.
With emerging technologies now adopting higher ethanol blends, it is realistic to project that by 2020 most new Australian vehicles will be able to use the E85 blend. After 2015, The Nationals’ implementation plan will be based on extending the availability of E85 blends. Promoting LPG
After 2015, The Nationals’ implementation plan will be based on extending the availability of E85 blends. Promoting LPG Australia has an abundance of LPG
Promoting LPG Australia has an abundance of LPG In 2008-09, we produced 5,403 ML of LPG and used 3,996 ML, of which 2,253 ML was for automotive use
Australia has an abundance of LPG In 2008-09, we produced 5,403 ML of LPG and used 3,996 ML, of which 2,253 ML was for automotive use Considerable environmental and energy security beneﬁts attach to continuing to encourage the use of LPG.
In 2008-09, we produced 5,403 ML of LPG and used 3,996 ML, of which 2,253 ML was for automotive use Considerable environmental and energy security beneﬁts attach to continuing to encourage the use of LPG. The Coalition introduced the LPG conversion scheme, which provided a grant of $2,000 for the LPG conversion of new or used petrol or diesel motor vehicles or the purchase of a new LPG vehicle.
Considerable environmental and energy security beneﬁts attach to continuing to encourage the use of LPG. The Coalition introduced the LPG conversion scheme, which provided a grant of $2,000 for the LPG conversion of new or used petrol or diesel motor vehicles or the purchase of a new LPG vehicle. Labor has phased down the conversion grant to $1,000 over the period to 1 July 2012
The Coalition introduced the LPG conversion scheme, which provided a grant of $2,000 for the LPG conversion of new or used petrol or diesel motor vehicles or the purchase of a new LPG vehicle. Labor has phased down the conversion grant to $1,000 over the period to 1 July 2012 As a result, conversion rates have halved, while 20,000 new LPG vehicles are sold each year.
Labor has phased down the conversion grant to $1,000 over the period to 1 July 2012 As a result, conversion rates have halved, while 20,000 new LPG vehicles are sold each year. The Nationals support the LPG Conversion Scheme and will provide an LPG research and development program, including development of a Collaborative Centre for Gas Systems Development and Certiﬁcation, as requested by the LPG industry.
As a result, conversion rates have halved, while 20,000 new LPG vehicles are sold each year. The Nationals support the LPG Conversion Scheme and will provide an LPG research and development program, including development of a Collaborative Centre for Gas Systems Development and Certiﬁcation, as requested by the LPG industry. Exploration for oil
The Nationals support the LPG Conversion Scheme and will provide an LPG research and development program, including development of a Collaborative Centre for Gas Systems Development and Certiﬁcation, as requested by the LPG industry. Exploration for oil Part of ensuring security of fuel supply is the continuation of oil exploration
Exploration for oil Part of ensuring security of fuel supply is the continuation of oil exploration Oil serves as the basis for blended diesel and ethanol products, so it is important that Australia makes the fullest use of its own oil reserves.
Part of ensuring security of fuel supply is the continuation of oil exploration Oil serves as the basis for blended diesel and ethanol products, so it is important that Australia makes the fullest use of its own oil reserves. The Nationals support oil exploration activity and will promote further exploration in Australia and its territories.
Oil serves as the basis for blended diesel and ethanol products, so it is important that Australia makes the fullest use of its own oil reserves. The Nationals support oil exploration activity and will promote further exploration in Australia and its territories. Research and development
The Nationals support oil exploration activity and will promote further exploration in Australia and its territories. Research and development Research on second-generation biofuels, such as ethanol from cellulose and biodiesel from algae, has faltered.
Research and development Research on second-generation biofuels, such as ethanol from cellulose and biodiesel from algae, has faltered. More research is needed to optimise the adoption of non-food stock materials and to encourage car manufacturing innovations.
Research on second-generation biofuels, such as ethanol from cellulose and biodiesel from algae, has faltered. More research is needed to optimise the adoption of non-food stock materials and to encourage car manufacturing innovations. The Nationals will provide a support package comprising:
More research is needed to optimise the adoption of non-food stock materials and to encourage car manufacturing innovations. The Nationals will provide a support package comprising: A new consumer information campaign;
The Nationals will provide a support package comprising: A new consumer information campaign; New requirements that all petrol engine cars sold in Australia have warranty cover for E10; and
A new consumer information campaign; New requirements that all petrol engine cars sold in Australia have warranty cover for E10; and Increased research and support for the development of second generation bio fuels.
New requirements that all petrol engine cars sold in Australia have warranty cover for E10; and Increased research and support for the development of second generation bio fuels. Water Assets
Increased research and support for the development of second generation bio fuels. Water Assets – STRIKING THE ECONOMIC, ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL BALANCE
Water Assets – STRIKING THE ECONOMIC, ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL BALANCE Careful management and sound decision-making about water allocation and usage are essential to our long-term economic, environmental and social wellbeing.
– STRIKING THE ECONOMIC, ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL BALANCE Careful management and sound decision-making about water allocation and usage are essential to our long-term economic, environmental and social wellbeing. The Nationals are committed to the effective management of Australia’s water resources.
Careful management and sound decision-making about water allocation and usage are essential to our long-term economic, environmental and social wellbeing. The Nationals are committed to the effective management of Australia’s water resources. We led the way in introducing water resources reform and have set the agenda for water trading by introducing legislation aimed at better water sharing agreements.
The Nationals are committed to the effective management of Australia’s water resources. We led the way in introducing water resources reform and have set the agenda for water trading by introducing legislation aimed at better water sharing agreements. The Nationals’ credentials in water resource management are founded on sound planning and a respect for the rights of all Australians.
We led the way in introducing water resources reform and have set the agenda for water trading by introducing legislation aimed at better water sharing agreements. The Nationals’ credentials in water resource management are founded on sound planning and a respect for the rights of all Australians. We will help land and water management groups to carry out practical, day-to-day projects that ensure compatibility between environmental sustainability and land and water use, including in the Murray-Darling Basin.
The Nationals’ credentials in water resource management are founded on sound planning and a respect for the rights of all Australians. We will help land and water management groups to carry out practical, day-to-day projects that ensure compatibility between environmental sustainability and land and water use, including in the Murray-Darling Basin. Understanding and respecting the role of Landcare groups within our communities is essential
We will help land and water management groups to carry out practical, day-to-day projects that ensure compatibility between environmental sustainability and land and water use, including in the Murray-Darling Basin. Understanding and respecting the role of Landcare groups within our communities is essential We will ensure they have sufﬁcient funding to continue their good work
Understanding and respecting the role of Landcare groups within our communities is essential We will ensure they have sufﬁcient funding to continue their good work We will also work with local communities and other stakeholders to understand the water needs of rural industries and communities.
We will ensure they have sufﬁcient funding to continue their good work We will also work with local communities and other stakeholders to understand the water needs of rural industries and communities. We will help ensure the future viability of Australia’s irrigated communities, while still allowing ample water to ﬂow to maintain the health of our river systems.
We will also work with local communities and other stakeholders to understand the water needs of rural industries and communities. We will help ensure the future viability of Australia’s irrigated communities, while still allowing ample water to ﬂow to maintain the health of our river systems. The Nationals will monitor the national water policy framework to ensure that a fair balance between water for the environment and water for agriculture is achieved.
We will help ensure the future viability of Australia’s irrigated communities, while still allowing ample water to ﬂow to maintain the health of our river systems. The Nationals will monitor the national water policy framework to ensure that a fair balance between water for the environment and water for agriculture is achieved. We support the establishment of new water harvesting schemes, including new irrigation areas in northern Australia, where high rainfall and untapped river systems provide new opportunities.
The Nationals will monitor the national water policy framework to ensure that a fair balance between water for the environment and water for agriculture is achieved. We support the establishment of new water harvesting schemes, including new irrigation areas in northern Australia, where high rainfall and untapped river systems provide new opportunities. We condemn the Labor Government for continuing to carry out water buy-backs in the Murray-Darling Basin in a haphazard manner and for failing to invest in water-saving infrastructure.
We support the establishment of new water harvesting schemes, including new irrigation areas in northern Australia, where high rainfall and untapped river systems provide new opportunities. We condemn the Labor Government for continuing to carry out water buy-backs in the Murray-Darling Basin in a haphazard manner and for failing to invest in water-saving infrastructure. We will ensure that any buy-back program ﬁrst establishes the true economic and social costs of removing irrigated farming from a particular area before committing to any buy-back.
We condemn the Labor Government for continuing to carry out water buy-backs in the Murray-Darling Basin in a haphazard manner and for failing to invest in water-saving infrastructure. We will ensure that any buy-back program ﬁrst establishes the true economic and social costs of removing irrigated farming from a particular area before committing to any buy-back. Our Plan
We will ensure that any buy-back program ﬁrst establishes the true economic and social costs of removing irrigated farming from a particular area before committing to any buy-back. Our Plan Support for local communities
Our Plan Support for local communities The Nationals will work with local communities on practical projects to save water in our cities and towns.
Support for local communities The Nationals will work with local communities on practical projects to save water in our cities and towns. There are currently no speciﬁc national funding opportunities for schools and community groups for this purpose
The Nationals will work with local communities on practical projects to save water in our cities and towns. There are currently no speciﬁc national funding opportunities for schools and community groups for this purpose We recognise the importance of allowing local groups to play their part in water saving and sharing programs, and will reinstate a water grants program similar to our previously successful program, Community Water Grants.
There are currently no speciﬁc national funding opportunities for schools and community groups for this purpose We recognise the importance of allowing local groups to play their part in water saving and sharing programs, and will reinstate a water grants program similar to our previously successful program, Community Water Grants. The Nationals remain committed to major investment in the re-plumbing of regional Australia to save water and to create more options for water use for the environment, farms and towns.
We recognise the importance of allowing local groups to play their part in water saving and sharing programs, and will reinstate a water grants program similar to our previously successful program, Community Water Grants. The Nationals remain committed to major investment in the re-plumbing of regional Australia to save water and to create more options for water use for the environment, farms and towns. The Nationals will provide compensation in the form of a structural adjustment package for communities affected by water withdrawals, to ensure that Basin communities do not bear an unreasonable social and/ or economic cost where reforms are imposed in the national interest.
The Nationals remain committed to major investment in the re-plumbing of regional Australia to save water and to create more options for water use for the environment, farms and towns. The Nationals will provide compensation in the form of a structural adjustment package for communities affected by water withdrawals, to ensure that Basin communities do not bear an unreasonable social and/ or economic cost where reforms are imposed in the national interest. Contemporary urban and suburban households recognise the need for water conservation and water-saving devices, such as shower heads or slow drip watering systems
The Nationals will provide compensation in the form of a structural adjustment package for communities affected by water withdrawals, to ensure that Basin communities do not bear an unreasonable social and/ or economic cost where reforms are imposed in the national interest. Contemporary urban and suburban households recognise the need for water conservation and water-saving devices, such as shower heads or slow drip watering systems However, some still have a traditional view of water as a free and endless resource.
Contemporary urban and suburban households recognise the need for water conservation and water-saving devices, such as shower heads or slow drip watering systems However, some still have a traditional view of water as a free and endless resource. Campaigns to encourage better water practices around the home are valuable in changing daily habits and views about water as a resource
However, some still have a traditional view of water as a free and endless resource. Campaigns to encourage better water practices around the home are valuable in changing daily habits and views about water as a resource The Nationals maintain that current incentives to lower water usage need to be enhanced.
Campaigns to encourage better water practices around the home are valuable in changing daily habits and views about water as a resource The Nationals maintain that current incentives to lower water usage need to be enhanced. Support for infrastructure
The Nationals maintain that current incentives to lower water usage need to be enhanced. Support for infrastructure The Nationals will invest in a re-plumbing of regional Australia
Support for infrastructure The Nationals will invest in a re-plumbing of regional Australia We recognise that what is needed is a once-in-a-century investment to improve the water-efﬁciency of our farms and regional water supplies.
The Nationals will invest in a re-plumbing of regional Australia We recognise that what is needed is a once-in-a-century investment to improve the water-efﬁciency of our farms and regional water supplies. The Nationals will work with farmers and local communities to invest in long-term water infrastructure on farms where ageing infrastructure needs to be upgraded
We recognise that what is needed is a once-in-a-century investment to improve the water-efﬁciency of our farms and regional water supplies. The Nationals will work with farmers and local communities to invest in long-term water infrastructure on farms where ageing infrastructure needs to be upgraded We also realise that the best advocates for sustainable water use on-farm are the landowners themselves who have the most to gain from using water efﬁciently
The Nationals will work with farmers and local communities to invest in long-term water infrastructure on farms where ageing infrastructure needs to be upgraded We also realise that the best advocates for sustainable water use on-farm are the landowners themselves who have the most to gain from using water efﬁciently We will work with local communities to set targets for water to be saved from on-farm and off-farm infrastructure projects to achieve irrigation efﬁciencies.
We also realise that the best advocates for sustainable water use on-farm are the landowners themselves who have the most to gain from using water efﬁciently We will work with local communities to set targets for water to be saved from on-farm and off-farm infrastructure projects to achieve irrigation efﬁciencies. The Nationals will also unfreeze the funds set aside as part of the $10 billion National Plan for Water Security for infrastructure
We will work with local communities to set targets for water to be saved from on-farm and off-farm infrastructure projects to achieve irrigation efﬁciencies. The Nationals will also unfreeze the funds set aside as part of the $10 billion National Plan for Water Security for infrastructure Farmers are willing to make savings and to share water with the environment, but they are entitled to, support
The Nationals will also unfreeze the funds set aside as part of the $10 billion National Plan for Water Security for infrastructure Farmers are willing to make savings and to share water with the environment, but they are entitled to, support We will reintroduce full tax deductibility for water infrastructure expenses in the ﬁnancial year following that in which the cost was incurred.
Farmers are willing to make savings and to share water with the environment, but they are entitled to, support We will reintroduce full tax deductibility for water infrastructure expenses in the ﬁnancial year following that in which the cost was incurred. We will also support the construction of new dams in regional Australia to underpin the future economic development of new areas, by providing secure and reliable water supplies for agriculture, mining, manufacturing and towns, and to provide further ﬂood mitigation capacity where appropriate.
We will reintroduce full tax deductibility for water infrastructure expenses in the ﬁnancial year following that in which the cost was incurred. We will also support the construction of new dams in regional Australia to underpin the future economic development of new areas, by providing secure and reliable water supplies for agriculture, mining, manufacturing and towns, and to provide further ﬂood mitigation capacity where appropriate. The Murray-Darling Basin Plan
We will also support the construction of new dams in regional Australia to underpin the future economic development of new areas, by providing secure and reliable water supplies for agriculture, mining, manufacturing and towns, and to provide further ﬂood mitigation capacity where appropriate. The Murray-Darling Basin Plan We will adopt all 21 recommendations of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Regional Australia’s inquiry into the impact of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.
The Murray-Darling Basin Plan We will adopt all 21 recommendations of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Regional Australia’s inquiry into the impact of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan. We will deliver a Murray-Darling Basin Plan that is clear about the environmental outcomes being targeted.
We will adopt all 21 recommendations of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Regional Australia’s inquiry into the impact of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan. We will deliver a Murray-Darling Basin Plan that is clear about the environmental outcomes being targeted. The Nationals in government will strengthen The Murray-Darling Basin Plan to:
We will deliver a Murray-Darling Basin Plan that is clear about the environmental outcomes being targeted. The Nationals in government will strengthen The Murray-Darling Basin Plan to: Clearly articulate the system-wide environmental outcomes being targeted (including below Lock 1), and provide complete documentation on how the environmental water will be used;
The Nationals in government will strengthen The Murray-Darling Basin Plan to: Clearly articulate the system-wide environmental outcomes being targeted (including below Lock 1), and provide complete documentation on how the environmental water will be used; Ensure that the plan helps to mitigate the impact of ﬂoods;
Clearly articulate the system-wide environmental outcomes being targeted (including below Lock 1), and provide complete documentation on how the environmental water will be used; Ensure that the plan helps to mitigate the impact of ﬂoods; Place a cap on the amount of water that can be returned to theenvironment through buybacks;
Ensure that the plan helps to mitigate the impact of ﬂoods; Place a cap on the amount of water that can be returned to theenvironment through buybacks; Allow local communities the power to determine how water is recovered
Place a cap on the amount of water that can be returned to theenvironment through buybacks; Allow local communities the power to determine how water is recovered and how environmental water is delivered; and
Allow local communities the power to determine how water is recovered and how environmental water is delivered; and Ensure targeted support for investment in irrigation infrastructure to deliver water savings, co-ordinated with targeted water buy backs.
and how environmental water is delivered; and Ensure targeted support for investment in irrigation infrastructure to deliver water savings, co-ordinated with targeted water buy backs. We will ensure that Sustainable Diversion Limits take proper account of social and economic considerations
Ensure targeted support for investment in irrigation infrastructure to deliver water savings, co-ordinated with targeted water buy backs. We will ensure that Sustainable Diversion Limits take proper account of social and economic considerations The Nationals believe the wellbeing of communities and the rivers that nourish them, is paramount.
We will ensure that Sustainable Diversion Limits take proper account of social and economic considerations The Nationals believe the wellbeing of communities and the rivers that nourish them, is paramount. The Nationals in government will address the socio-economic challenges faced by communities reliant on irrigation
The Nationals believe the wellbeing of communities and the rivers that nourish them, is paramount. The Nationals in government will address the socio-economic challenges faced by communities reliant on irrigation The Nationals will introduce Community Impact Statements for water purchases, to assess their effect on local communities.
The Nationals in government will address the socio-economic challenges faced by communities reliant on irrigation The Nationals will introduce Community Impact Statements for water purchases, to assess their effect on local communities. We will appoint an independent panel of legal experts to formulate speciﬁc amendments to the Water Act to ensure that the Murray-Darling Basin Authority and the Commonwealth Minister for Water have the discretion to give appropriate weight to economic, social and environmental considerations and to balance these interests against one another
The Nationals will introduce Community Impact Statements for water purchases, to assess their effect on local communities. We will appoint an independent panel of legal experts to formulate speciﬁc amendments to the Water Act to ensure that the Murray-Darling Basin Authority and the Commonwealth Minister for Water have the discretion to give appropriate weight to economic, social and environmental considerations and to balance these interests against one another We will also ensure that the Plan is immune from legal challenge.
We will appoint an independent panel of legal experts to formulate speciﬁc amendments to the Water Act to ensure that the Murray-Darling Basin Authority and the Commonwealth Minister for Water have the discretion to give appropriate weight to economic, social and environmental considerations and to balance these interests against one another We will also ensure that the Plan is immune from legal challenge. We do not support a referendum advocating the transfer of powers of the Murray-Darling Basin to the federal government.
We will also ensure that the Plan is immune from legal challenge. We do not support a referendum advocating the transfer of powers of the Murray-Darling Basin to the federal government. Coal seam gas & the NWI
We do not support a referendum advocating the transfer of powers of the Murray-Darling Basin to the federal government. Coal seam gas & the NWI In addition to the coal seam gas development statement in our Primary Production plan, The Nationals will develop special provisions for the development of minerals and petroleum projects as they relate to the principles of the National Water Initiative (NWI).
Coal seam gas & the NWI In addition to the coal seam gas development statement in our Primary Production plan, The Nationals will develop special provisions for the development of minerals and petroleum projects as they relate to the principles of the National Water Initiative (NWI). We will clarify the circumstances under which clause 34 of the NWI applies, so that water quality issues arising from coal seam gas developments are properly evaluated under the national water planning processes.
In addition to the coal seam gas development statement in our Primary Production plan, The Nationals will develop special provisions for the development of minerals and petroleum projects as they relate to the principles of the National Water Initiative (NWI). We will clarify the circumstances under which clause 34 of the NWI applies, so that water quality issues arising from coal seam gas developments are properly evaluated under the national water planning processes. The Nationals support research to improve our knowledge of Australia’s groundwater resources, particularly the impact of the coal seam gas industry on the Great Artesian Basin, which was the focus of the Independent Expert Scientiﬁc Committee on Coal Seam Gas and Coal Mining.
We will clarify the circumstances under which clause 34 of the NWI applies, so that water quality issues arising from coal seam gas developments are properly evaluated under the national water planning processes. The Nationals support research to improve our knowledge of Australia’s groundwater resources, particularly the impact of the coal seam gas industry on the Great Artesian Basin, which was the focus of the Independent Expert Scientiﬁc Committee on Coal Seam Gas and Coal Mining. Flood mitigation
The Nationals support research to improve our knowledge of Australia’s groundwater resources, particularly the impact of the coal seam gas industry on the Great Artesian Basin, which was the focus of the Independent Expert Scientiﬁc Committee on Coal Seam Gas and Coal Mining. Flood mitigation The Nationals will provide increased investment in ﬂood mitigation works to provide greater protection from ﬂooding for regional communities.
Flood mitigation The Nationals will provide increased investment in ﬂood mitigation works to provide greater protection from ﬂooding for regional communities. We will provide funding to develop state of the art information technology based early warning systems, to provide more accurate predictions of ﬂood peaks and timing and earlier, more accurate weather forecasts.
The Nationals will provide increased investment in ﬂood mitigation works to provide greater protection from ﬂooding for regional communities. We will provide funding to develop state of the art information technology based early warning systems, to provide more accurate predictions of ﬂood peaks and timing and earlier, more accurate weather forecasts. We will also provide resources to address the inconsistencies in conditions set out in various insurance company policies.
We will provide funding to develop state of the art information technology based early warning systems, to provide more accurate predictions of ﬂood peaks and timing and earlier, more accurate weather forecasts. We will also provide resources to address the inconsistencies in conditions set out in various insurance company policies. Women– PARTNERS IN BUSINESS, AT WORK, IN THE COMMUNITY AND AT HOME
We will also provide resources to address the inconsistencies in conditions set out in various insurance company policies. Women– PARTNERS IN BUSINESS, AT WORK, IN THE COMMUNITY AND AT HOME Whether in the workforce or at home, more than one-third of Australian women live outside the major population centres and play a key role in securing a prosperous future for regional Australia.
Women– PARTNERS IN BUSINESS, AT WORK, IN THE COMMUNITY AND AT HOME Whether in the workforce or at home, more than one-third of Australian women live outside the major population centres and play a key role in securing a prosperous future for regional Australia. Women make up more than 40% of farm and small business owner and managers
Whether in the workforce or at home, more than one-third of Australian women live outside the major population centres and play a key role in securing a prosperous future for regional Australia. Women make up more than 40% of farm and small business owner and managers They are integral partners in decision-making and planning, and share the triumphs and hardships of living and working in remote, rural and regional Australia.
Women make up more than 40% of farm and small business owner and managers They are integral partners in decision-making and planning, and share the triumphs and hardships of living and working in remote, rural and regional Australia. The Nationals’ policies address women’s interests, based on the premise that the difference between regional and urban women in Australia should relate to geography, and not to any disadvantage caused by unequal distribution of resources and services or to a lack of opportunities.
They are integral partners in decision-making and planning, and share the triumphs and hardships of living and working in remote, rural and regional Australia. The Nationals’ policies address women’s interests, based on the premise that the difference between regional and urban women in Australia should relate to geography, and not to any disadvantage caused by unequal distribution of resources and services or to a lack of opportunities. The Nationals strive to achieve fair and equitable outcomes for women in all areas of regional Australia.
The Nationals’ policies address women’s interests, based on the premise that the difference between regional and urban women in Australia should relate to geography, and not to any disadvantage caused by unequal distribution of resources and services or to a lack of opportunities. The Nationals strive to achieve fair and equitable outcomes for women in all areas of regional Australia. We believe that forced marriages should be illegal in Australia and will support legislation to ban them.
The Nationals strive to achieve fair and equitable outcomes for women in all areas of regional Australia. We believe that forced marriages should be illegal in Australia and will support legislation to ban them. Our Plan
We believe that forced marriages should be illegal in Australia and will support legislation to ban them. Our Plan Sustainable regional growth
Our Plan Sustainable regional growth Under The Nationals in government, local committees will be set up to identify, obtain and regulate increased regional funding from central sources.
Sustainable regional growth Under The Nationals in government, local committees will be set up to identify, obtain and regulate increased regional funding from central sources. These committees will be made up of local leaders from business, community and local government, with each Regional Development Australia (RDA) node setting the direction for development in the region.
Under The Nationals in government, local committees will be set up to identify, obtain and regulate increased regional funding from central sources. These committees will be made up of local leaders from business, community and local government, with each Regional Development Australia (RDA) node setting the direction for development in the region. Women make up an important part of these groups.
These committees will be made up of local leaders from business, community and local government, with each Regional Development Australia (RDA) node setting the direction for development in the region. Women make up an important part of these groups. The RDA Ofﬁces will work with local government, schools and universities, service organisations, cultural bodies, sporting, business and community leaders and associations, to assess local needs and to choose from targeted initiatives to support regional growth.
Women make up an important part of these groups. The RDA Ofﬁces will work with local government, schools and universities, service organisations, cultural bodies, sporting, business and community leaders and associations, to assess local needs and to choose from targeted initiatives to support regional growth. The RDA will provide a ﬁltering mechanism for potential projects brought to the table of state and federal government, which qualify for the broader ‘Better Regions Program’.
The RDA Ofﬁces will work with local government, schools and universities, service organisations, cultural bodies, sporting, business and community leaders and associations, to assess local needs and to choose from targeted initiatives to support regional growth. The RDA will provide a ﬁltering mechanism for potential projects brought to the table of state and federal government, which qualify for the broader ‘Better Regions Program’. Healthcare
The RDA will provide a ﬁltering mechanism for potential projects brought to the table of state and federal government, which qualify for the broader ‘Better Regions Program’. Healthcare Health is a major factor in our lives and disease does not discriminate by gender, culture, religion, age or postcode
Healthcare Health is a major factor in our lives and disease does not discriminate by gender, culture, religion, age or postcode Not surprisingly, health concerns are the top item on the political agenda for individuals and families.
Health is a major factor in our lives and disease does not discriminate by gender, culture, religion, age or postcode Not surprisingly, health concerns are the top item on the political agenda for individuals and families. The correlation is well known between lower income levels and poorer health outcomes, and that regional Australia contains a disproportional share of electorates with lower average incomes.
Not surprisingly, health concerns are the top item on the political agenda for individuals and families. The correlation is well known between lower income levels and poorer health outcomes, and that regional Australia contains a disproportional share of electorates with lower average incomes. In regional Australia communities have been hardest hit by the deteriorating infrastructure and diminished services now afﬂicting our public health system.
The correlation is well known between lower income levels and poorer health outcomes, and that regional Australia contains a disproportional share of electorates with lower average incomes. In regional Australia communities have been hardest hit by the deteriorating infrastructure and diminished services now afﬂicting our public health system. Greater demand on specialist services in regional and rural areas results from an ageing population and higher rates of disease and illness
In regional Australia communities have been hardest hit by the deteriorating infrastructure and diminished services now afﬂicting our public health system. Greater demand on specialist services in regional and rural areas results from an ageing population and higher rates of disease and illness The emotional strain on families when members are diagnosed with debilitating or life-threatening illnesses is compounded when they have to be separated by distance for treatment.
Greater demand on specialist services in regional and rural areas results from an ageing population and higher rates of disease and illness The emotional strain on families when members are diagnosed with debilitating or life-threatening illnesses is compounded when they have to be separated by distance for treatment. Problematic access to mental health professionals is also accentuated in regional communities across Australia, and is compounded by the declining support services available for those suffering these distressing illnesses.
The emotional strain on families when members are diagnosed with debilitating or life-threatening illnesses is compounded when they have to be separated by distance for treatment. Problematic access to mental health professionals is also accentuated in regional communities across Australia, and is compounded by the declining support services available for those suffering these distressing illnesses. The rate of suicide in regional communities mainly affects males and is estimated to be up to double that in metropolitan centres, reﬂecting.
Problematic access to mental health professionals is also accentuated in regional communities across Australia, and is compounded by the declining support services available for those suffering these distressing illnesses. The rate of suicide in regional communities mainly affects males and is estimated to be up to double that in metropolitan centres, reﬂecting. In each of these cases, too often women are left to bear the social and economic costs, as well as the impact of other mental health problems prevalent among men in rural settings, including depression, alcohol and drug abuse.
The rate of suicide in regional communities mainly affects males and is estimated to be up to double that in metropolitan centres, reﬂecting. In each of these cases, too often women are left to bear the social and economic costs, as well as the impact of other mental health problems prevalent among men in rural settings, including depression, alcohol and drug abuse. Every woman in Australia, and especially women in regional and rural areas, has the right to expect safe and well resourced maternity services in close proximity to her local community.
In each of these cases, too often women are left to bear the social and economic costs, as well as the impact of other mental health problems prevalent among men in rural settings, including depression, alcohol and drug abuse. Every woman in Australia, and especially women in regional and rural areas, has the right to expect safe and well resourced maternity services in close proximity to her local community. There has been a disturbing decline in government provision of maternity units across regional Australia
Every woman in Australia, and especially women in regional and rural areas, has the right to expect safe and well resourced maternity services in close proximity to her local community. There has been a disturbing decline in government provision of maternity units across regional Australia Again, the social costs for women having to leave their support networks and travel long distances for maternity services must be recognised and addressed as a matter of urgency.
There has been a disturbing decline in government provision of maternity units across regional Australia Again, the social costs for women having to leave their support networks and travel long distances for maternity services must be recognised and addressed as a matter of urgency. Adequate health services in regional Australia, particularly acute, maternity and mental health services, are inhibited to a large degree by the shortage of health professionals
Again, the social costs for women having to leave their support networks and travel long distances for maternity services must be recognised and addressed as a matter of urgency. Adequate health services in regional Australia, particularly acute, maternity and mental health services, are inhibited to a large degree by the shortage of health professionals Local health networks, where local women can have direct input into decision making on the provision of services, will ensure that the health needs of our communities are met.
Adequate health services in regional Australia, particularly acute, maternity and mental health services, are inhibited to a large degree by the shortage of health professionals Local health networks, where local women can have direct input into decision making on the provision of services, will ensure that the health needs of our communities are met. The Nationals in government will:
Local health networks, where local women can have direct input into decision making on the provision of services, will ensure that the health needs of our communities are met. The Nationals in government will: Provide guaranteed service levels for key regional hospitals in ﬁelds such as maternity and mental health;
The Nationals in government will: Provide guaranteed service levels for key regional hospitals in ﬁelds such as maternity and mental health; Provide increased ﬁnancial support for those doctors providing health services in regional and remote communities;
Provide guaranteed service levels for key regional hospitals in ﬁelds such as maternity and mental health; Provide increased ﬁnancial support for those doctors providing health services in regional and remote communities; Establish a targeted regional health fund to provide funding for new health services;
Provide increased ﬁnancial support for those doctors providing health services in regional and remote communities; Establish a targeted regional health fund to provide funding for new health services; Establish Local Hospital Boards for the larger public hospitals and also for groups of smaller hospitals;
Establish a targeted regional health fund to provide funding for new health services; Establish Local Hospital Boards for the larger public hospitals and also for groups of smaller hospitals; Ensure that regional health targets are built into the Health Care Agreements;
Establish Local Hospital Boards for the larger public hospitals and also for groups of smaller hospitals; Ensure that regional health targets are built into the Health Care Agreements; Provide incentives for more women to undertake study in health care at a regional university; and
Ensure that regional health targets are built into the Health Care Agreements; Provide incentives for more women to undertake study in health care at a regional university; and Respond to current midwifery shortages and avoid future shortages by providing adequate levels of funding for university and VET preregistration and pre-enrolment courses, and especially for clinical placements.
Provide incentives for more women to undertake study in health care at a regional university; and Respond to current midwifery shortages and avoid future shortages by providing adequate levels of funding for university and VET preregistration and pre-enrolment courses, and especially for clinical placements. Women in the workforce
Respond to current midwifery shortages and avoid future shortages by providing adequate levels of funding for university and VET preregistration and pre-enrolment courses, and especially for clinical placements. Women in the workforce Women in regional Australia make signiﬁcant contributions to the national workforce
Women in the workforce Women in regional Australia make signiﬁcant contributions to the national workforce Married women have increased their participation from 17% in 1954 to more than 60% today
Women in regional Australia make signiﬁcant contributions to the national workforce Married women have increased their participation from 17% in 1954 to more than 60% today However, while many regional women are well qualiﬁed they tend to work in lower-skilled and lower paid jobs
Married women have increased their participation from 17% in 1954 to more than 60% today However, while many regional women are well qualiﬁed they tend to work in lower-skilled and lower paid jobs Nevertheless, women in regional Australia are at the forefront of developing small businesses, which are complementing the more traditional commercial ventures such as farming.
However, while many regional women are well qualiﬁed they tend to work in lower-skilled and lower paid jobs Nevertheless, women in regional Australia are at the forefront of developing small businesses, which are complementing the more traditional commercial ventures such as farming. This contribution by regional business women is estimated to be in the order of $1.2 billion a year.
Nevertheless, women in regional Australia are at the forefront of developing small businesses, which are complementing the more traditional commercial ventures such as farming. This contribution by regional business women is estimated to be in the order of $1.2 billion a year. Employment of women in the trucking industry is already widespread in mining areas, where they enjoy a safer driving record and less wear on vehicles
This contribution by regional business women is estimated to be in the order of $1.2 billion a year. Employment of women in the trucking industry is already widespread in mining areas, where they enjoy a safer driving record and less wear on vehicles Given adequate health and safety standards, this is a growing area of employment for women.
Employment of women in the trucking industry is already widespread in mining areas, where they enjoy a safer driving record and less wear on vehicles Given adequate health and safety standards, this is a growing area of employment for women. The Nationals will also encourage more women to take up pilot licences.
Given adequate health and safety standards, this is a growing area of employment for women. The Nationals will also encourage more women to take up pilot licences. The Nationals in government will aim for the full and equal participation of women in the paid workforce, by:
The Nationals will also encourage more women to take up pilot licences. The Nationals in government will aim for the full and equal participation of women in the paid workforce, by: Implementing programs that encourage small business andtourism;
The Nationals in government will aim for the full and equal participation of women in the paid workforce, by: Implementing programs that encourage small business andtourism; Encouraging more women to take up apprenticeships, traineeshipsand to undertake tertiary studies;
Implementing programs that encourage small business andtourism; Encouraging more women to take up apprenticeships, traineeshipsand to undertake tertiary studies; Providing special training programs for Indigenous women;
Encouraging more women to take up apprenticeships, traineeshipsand to undertake tertiary studies; Providing special training programs for Indigenous women; Supporting education programs and initiatives which give womenaccess to either face to-face training, or externally provided trainingusing the technological services now available;
Providing special training programs for Indigenous women; Supporting education programs and initiatives which give womenaccess to either face to-face training, or externally provided trainingusing the technological services now available; Further enhancing paid maternity, paternity and parental leave,including for the self employed;
Supporting education programs and initiatives which give womenaccess to either face to-face training, or externally provided trainingusing the technological services now available; Further enhancing paid maternity, paternity and parental leave,including for the self employed; Providing more childcare places, with priority given to the needs ofregional families;
Further enhancing paid maternity, paternity and parental leave,including for the self employed; Providing more childcare places, with priority given to the needs ofregional families; Working towards pay equality for equal work between women andmen; and
Providing more childcare places, with priority given to the needs ofregional families; Working towards pay equality for equal work between women andmen; and Ensuring that defence remains a major employer in areas outside  the major centres.
Working towards pay equality for equal work between women andmen; and Ensuring that defence remains a major employer in areas outside  the major centres. Youth– OPPORTUNITY AND PROSPERITY IN VIBRANT, GROWING REGIONS
Ensuring that defence remains a major employer in areas outside  the major centres. Youth– OPPORTUNITY AND PROSPERITY IN VIBRANT, GROWING REGIONS The development and prosperity of regional Australia, and the survival of the lifestyle enjoyed by regional communities, depends on the ability to retain and attract young people.
Youth– OPPORTUNITY AND PROSPERITY IN VIBRANT, GROWING REGIONS The development and prosperity of regional Australia, and the survival of the lifestyle enjoyed by regional communities, depends on the ability to retain and attract young people. The Nationals plan to revitalise and populate regional Australia, through incentives for new businesses, domestic and migrant location in regional areas and the hard and soft infrastructure expected in modern communities.
The development and prosperity of regional Australia, and the survival of the lifestyle enjoyed by regional communities, depends on the ability to retain and attract young people. The Nationals plan to revitalise and populate regional Australia, through incentives for new businesses, domestic and migrant location in regional areas and the hard and soft infrastructure expected in modern communities. The growth of regional centres will deliver better and more opportunities and services for all in the communities, and create a better value proposition for younger Australians to pursue.
The Nationals plan to revitalise and populate regional Australia, through incentives for new businesses, domestic and migrant location in regional areas and the hard and soft infrastructure expected in modern communities. The growth of regional centres will deliver better and more opportunities and services for all in the communities, and create a better value proposition for younger Australians to pursue. We will not only retain regional youth lured away by the opportunities in capital cities, but attract forward-looking, driven and inspired youth into growing regional areas
The growth of regional centres will deliver better and more opportunities and services for all in the communities, and create a better value proposition for younger Australians to pursue. We will not only retain regional youth lured away by the opportunities in capital cities, but attract forward-looking, driven and inspired youth into growing regional areas The pioneering spirit is alive and well in Australia, but it needs to be focused to re-energize and build the underdeveloped 97% of Australia that is regional.
We will not only retain regional youth lured away by the opportunities in capital cities, but attract forward-looking, driven and inspired youth into growing regional areas The pioneering spirit is alive and well in Australia, but it needs to be focused to re-energize and build the underdeveloped 97% of Australia that is regional. Services and facilities need to be appropriate and provide opportunities for young people in social interaction, education, career and job opportunities.
The pioneering spirit is alive and well in Australia, but it needs to be focused to re-energize and build the underdeveloped 97% of Australia that is regional. Services and facilities need to be appropriate and provide opportunities for young people in social interaction, education, career and job opportunities. Our Plan
Services and facilities need to be appropriate and provide opportunities for young people in social interaction, education, career and job opportunities. Our Plan Education
Our Plan Education As outlined in our Education plan, The Nationals maintain that young people deserve the best in education, wherever they live and whatever they study.
Education As outlined in our Education plan, The Nationals maintain that young people deserve the best in education, wherever they live and whatever they study. Where learning facilities in a particular region are not viable, The Nationals in government will provide ﬁnancial assistance to parents and organisations providing residential facilities and will introduce a tertiary access allowance for students required to live away from home or to travel long distances for their education.
As outlined in our Education plan, The Nationals maintain that young people deserve the best in education, wherever they live and whatever they study. Where learning facilities in a particular region are not viable, The Nationals in government will provide ﬁnancial assistance to parents and organisations providing residential facilities and will introduce a tertiary access allowance for students required to live away from home or to travel long distances for their education. This support will include provision for students to return home at regular intervals.
Where learning facilities in a particular region are not viable, The Nationals in government will provide ﬁnancial assistance to parents and organisations providing residential facilities and will introduce a tertiary access allowance for students required to live away from home or to travel long distances for their education. This support will include provision for students to return home at regular intervals. We will increase the number of regional secondary schools acting as feeders to the universities
This support will include provision for students to return home at regular intervals. We will increase the number of regional secondary schools acting as feeders to the universities We will provide openings and help high achievers at regional secondary schools to have early experience of university and TAFE, to encourage the application of their talents.
We will increase the number of regional secondary schools acting as feeders to the universities We will provide openings and help high achievers at regional secondary schools to have early experience of university and TAFE, to encourage the application of their talents. We will also reinstate agriculture and horticulture apprenticeships on the National Skills List, which Labor removed in 2008.
We will provide openings and help high achievers at regional secondary schools to have early experience of university and TAFE, to encourage the application of their talents. We will also reinstate agriculture and horticulture apprenticeships on the National Skills List, which Labor removed in 2008. Overcoming social isolation
We will also reinstate agriculture and horticulture apprenticeships on the National Skills List, which Labor removed in 2008. Overcoming social isolation The Nationals are well aware of the damaging effects that social isolation can have on human health and wellbeing across all age groups, and right through the community
Overcoming social isolation The Nationals are well aware of the damaging effects that social isolation can have on human health and wellbeing across all age groups, and right through the community None are more vulnerable than young people.
The Nationals are well aware of the damaging effects that social isolation can have on human health and wellbeing across all age groups, and right through the community None are more vulnerable than young people. We will increase funding for key successful youth programs, in particular those aimed at connecting young people with the broader community
None are more vulnerable than young people. We will increase funding for key successful youth programs, in particular those aimed at connecting young people with the broader community Funds will be made available to establish or expand regionally-based facilities, such as youth centres, where young people can interact with peers under limited adult supervision, and improve their lives through education, sport and recreation.
We will increase funding for key successful youth programs, in particular those aimed at connecting young people with the broader community Funds will be made available to establish or expand regionally-based facilities, such as youth centres, where young people can interact with peers under limited adult supervision, and improve their lives through education, sport and recreation. Life skills
Funds will be made available to establish or expand regionally-based facilities, such as youth centres, where young people can interact with peers under limited adult supervision, and improve their lives through education, sport and recreation. Life skills Our young people need life skills
Life skills Our young people need life skills The Nationals in government will introduce a National Youth Safety Program, to give students basic ﬁrst aid competencies by Year 10 and to provide all students with pre-driver education and training.
Our young people need life skills The Nationals in government will introduce a National Youth Safety Program, to give students basic ﬁrst aid competencies by Year 10 and to provide all students with pre-driver education and training. We will provide opportunities for young people to learn about drugs, obesity and general health, and will increase funding to regional youth programs to address issues like drug and alcohol abuse, bullying, and the management of mental health concerns.
The Nationals in government will introduce a National Youth Safety Program, to give students basic ﬁrst aid competencies by Year 10 and to provide all students with pre-driver education and training. We will provide opportunities for young people to learn about drugs, obesity and general health, and will increase funding to regional youth programs to address issues like drug and alcohol abuse, bullying, and the management of mental health concerns. Health
We will provide opportunities for young people to learn about drugs, obesity and general health, and will increase funding to regional youth programs to address issues like drug and alcohol abuse, bullying, and the management of mental health concerns. Health All Australians are entitled to top quality and accessible health services
Health All Australians are entitled to top quality and accessible health services The Nationals in government will provide increased resources for regional health programs, and give the local health professionals the responsibility for decisions affecting their areas
All Australians are entitled to top quality and accessible health services The Nationals in government will provide increased resources for regional health programs, and give the local health professionals the responsibility for decisions affecting their areas Regional health service providers need to be skilled in the special mental and physical health needs of young people.
The Nationals in government will provide increased resources for regional health programs, and give the local health professionals the responsibility for decisions affecting their areas Regional health service providers need to be skilled in the special mental and physical health needs of young people. When full time residential care becomes necessary, we will provide that those with a disability can be cared for as close as possible to their families, and in facilities that cater speciﬁcally for young people.
Regional health service providers need to be skilled in the special mental and physical health needs of young people. When full time residential care becomes necessary, we will provide that those with a disability can be cared for as close as possible to their families, and in facilities that cater speciﬁcally for young people. Regional Youth Forum
When full time residential care becomes necessary, we will provide that those with a disability can be cared for as close as possible to their families, and in facilities that cater speciﬁcally for young people. Regional Youth Forum The Nationals in government will re-organise the Australian Youth Forum to broaden participation from those outside the youth advocacy sector, and those engaged in employment and other pursuits
Regional Youth Forum The Nationals in government will re-organise the Australian Youth Forum to broaden participation from those outside the youth advocacy sector, and those engaged in employment and other pursuits We will foster participation by regional youth through a new Regional Youth Forum steering committee comprising young Australians living in regional and rural areas
The Nationals in government will re-organise the Australian Youth Forum to broaden participation from those outside the youth advocacy sector, and those engaged in employment and other pursuits We will foster participation by regional youth through a new Regional Youth Forum steering committee comprising young Australians living in regional and rural areas The Regional Youth Forum will participate with, and form part of, the national Australian Youth Forum, but will emphasise issues identiﬁed by young people living in regional Australia.
We will foster participation by regional youth through a new Regional Youth Forum steering committee comprising young Australians living in regional and rural areas The Regional Youth Forum will participate with, and form part of, the national Australian Youth Forum, but will emphasise issues identiﬁed by young people living in regional Australia. Providing career opportunities
The Regional Youth Forum will participate with, and form part of, the national Australian Youth Forum, but will emphasise issues identiﬁed by young people living in regional Australia. Providing career opportunities Opportunities abound for secure, rewarding and prosperous careers in regional Australia, but young people are not being encouraged to pursue them.
Providing career opportunities Opportunities abound for secure, rewarding and prosperous careers in regional Australia, but young people are not being encouraged to pursue them. The Nationals’ plan for small business, regional development, education and primary production to grow the regional economy, will give young people conﬁdence in pursuing a regionally-based career.
Opportunities abound for secure, rewarding and prosperous careers in regional Australia, but young people are not being encouraged to pursue them. The Nationals’ plan for small business, regional development, education and primary production to grow the regional economy, will give young people conﬁdence in pursuing a regionally-based career. We will continue to encourage the decentralisation of large and small businesses, and the public sector, via our regional growth policies
The Nationals’ plan for small business, regional development, education and primary production to grow the regional economy, will give young people conﬁdence in pursuing a regionally-based career. We will continue to encourage the decentralisation of large and small businesses, and the public sector, via our regional growth policies Our policies encourage young people to study for careers that support regional growth and food security, unlike Labor’s centralistic view.
We will continue to encourage the decentralisation of large and small businesses, and the public sector, via our regional growth policies Our policies encourage young people to study for careers that support regional growth and food security, unlike Labor’s centralistic view. We will provide the ﬁnancial incentives for young people to take up traineeships in the agricultural sector, on the same footing as other traineeships and apprenticeships, and will place tertiary-level agriculture and forestry courses in the National Priorities Category of the Students Contribution Band.
Our policies encourage young people to study for careers that support regional growth and food security, unlike Labor’s centralistic view. We will provide the ﬁnancial incentives for young people to take up traineeships in the agricultural sector, on the same footing as other traineeships and apprenticeships, and will place tertiary-level agriculture and forestry courses in the National Priorities Category of the Students Contribution Band. The Nationals will provide incentives for regional employers to give students work experience and gap year employment, to foster their local career and job opportunities.
We will provide the ﬁnancial incentives for young people to take up traineeships in the agricultural sector, on the same footing as other traineeships and apprenticeships, and will place tertiary-level agriculture and forestry courses in the National Priorities Category of the Students Contribution Band. The Nationals will provide incentives for regional employers to give students work experience and gap year employment, to foster their local career and job opportunities. ACTION ON GLOBAL WARMING
The Nationals will provide incentives for regional employers to give students work experience and gap year employment, to foster their local career and job opportunities. ACTION ON GLOBAL WARMING There is no escaping our economic future.
ACTION ON GLOBAL WARMING There is no escaping our economic future. It is clean and green or it is no future at all.
There is no escaping our economic future. It is clean and green or it is no future at all. Global warming puts our health, our economy and our precious places at risk, and we need to act.
It is clean and green or it is no future at all. Global warming puts our health, our economy and our precious places at risk, and we need to act. Our plan for action on global warming will help us to move from our fossil fuel dependence and into clean energy while attracting new businesses and jobs.
Global warming puts our health, our economy and our precious places at risk, and we need to act. Our plan for action on global warming will help us to move from our fossil fuel dependence and into clean energy while attracting new businesses and jobs. The Greens are the only party with the courage to tackle catastrophic global warming & transition Australia away from coal towards a clean energy economy.
Our plan for action on global warming will help us to move from our fossil fuel dependence and into clean energy while attracting new businesses and jobs. The Greens are the only party with the courage to tackle catastrophic global warming & transition Australia away from coal towards a clean energy economy. We can embrace the next wave of technologies to help reduce our reliance on coal and gas fired power.
The Greens are the only party with the courage to tackle catastrophic global warming & transition Australia away from coal towards a clean energy economy. We can embrace the next wave of technologies to help reduce our reliance on coal and gas fired power. We need to build an energy system fit for the 21st century, and transition away from the polluting industries of the past, while ensuring that workers, families and communities are not left behind.
We can embrace the next wave of technologies to help reduce our reliance on coal and gas fired power. We need to build an energy system fit for the 21st century, and transition away from the polluting industries of the past, while ensuring that workers, families and communities are not left behind. We’re already feeling severe impacts including devastating coral bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef and we need to prepare and adapt in order to save lives and protect communities.
We need to build an energy system fit for the 21st century, and transition away from the polluting industries of the past, while ensuring that workers, families and communities are not left behind. We’re already feeling severe impacts including devastating coral bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef and we need to prepare and adapt in order to save lives and protect communities. Through our comprehensive plan for climate adaptation, we can build greater resilience to disasters, and ensure frontline services have the resources they need to support our communities.
We’re already feeling severe impacts including devastating coral bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef and we need to prepare and adapt in order to save lives and protect communities. Through our comprehensive plan for climate adaptation, we can build greater resilience to disasters, and ensure frontline services have the resources they need to support our communities. Our plan for action on global warming includes a commitment to:Create a new clean energy economy with at least 90% renewables by 2030, through our Renew Australia plan
Through our comprehensive plan for climate adaptation, we can build greater resilience to disasters, and ensure frontline services have the resources they need to support our communities. Our plan for action on global warming includes a commitment to:Create a new clean energy economy with at least 90% renewables by 2030, through our Renew Australia plan Support Australians to repower their homes and businesses with clean energy, through community owned renewable energy, access to solar energy, and revolutionising our energysystem through battery storage
Our plan for action on global warming includes a commitment to:Create a new clean energy economy with at least 90% renewables by 2030, through our Renew Australia plan Support Australians to repower their homes and businesses with clean energy, through community owned renewable energy, access to solar energy, and revolutionising our energysystem through battery storage Invest in clean transport that works for people and our environment
Support Australians to repower their homes and businesses with clean energy, through community owned renewable energy, access to solar energy, and revolutionising our energysystem through battery storage Invest in clean transport that works for people and our environment Fund disaster preparedness and frontline services to address the global warming impacts that we are already facing
Invest in clean transport that works for people and our environment Fund disaster preparedness and frontline services to address the global warming impacts that we are already facing Keep coal in the ground, whilst ensuring that workers and communities are able to adjust to the transition as our coal usage and exports gradually decline
Fund disaster preparedness and frontline services to address the global warming impacts that we are already facing Keep coal in the ground, whilst ensuring that workers and communities are able to adjust to the transition as our coal usage and exports gradually decline RENEWAUSTRALIA
Keep coal in the ground, whilst ensuring that workers and communities are able to adjust to the transition as our coal usage and exports gradually decline RENEWAUSTRALIA We are currently heading towards a climate catastrophe.
RENEWAUSTRALIA We are currently heading towards a climate catastrophe. Our planet is warming, sea levels are rising, we are living through hotter summers and more extreme weather events.
We are currently heading towards a climate catastrophe. Our planet is warming, sea levels are rising, we are living through hotter summers and more extreme weather events. Our past relied on coal fired power, but coal can no longer secure us a prosperous and safe future.
Our planet is warming, sea levels are rising, we are living through hotter summers and more extreme weather events. Our past relied on coal fired power, but coal can no longer secure us a prosperous and safe future. It makes economic sense to act now.
Our past relied on coal fired power, but coal can no longer secure us a prosperous and safe future. It makes economic sense to act now. The coal industry is in structural decline.
It makes economic sense to act now. The coal industry is in structural decline. Coal exports aren declining and the world is shifting towards cleanenergy.
The coal industry is in structural decline. Coal exports aren declining and the world is shifting towards cleanenergy. As one of the sunniest and windiest countries in the world, Australia can lead the transition to a clean energy powered future.
Coal exports aren declining and the world is shifting towards cleanenergy. As one of the sunniest and windiest countries in the world, Australia can lead the transition to a clean energy powered future. To avoid catastrophic global warming and stabilise warming below 1.5 degrees, Australia must cut pollution rapidly to achieve net zeropollution by 2040
As one of the sunniest and windiest countries in the world, Australia can lead the transition to a clean energy powered future. To avoid catastrophic global warming and stabilise warming below 1.5 degrees, Australia must cut pollution rapidly to achieve net zeropollution by 2040 The Australian Greens have ,a strategy to get there, and our plan for atleast 90 per cent clean energy by 2030 is a critical component.
To avoid catastrophic global warming and stabilise warming below 1.5 degrees, Australia must cut pollution rapidly to achieve net zeropollution by 2040 The Australian Greens have ,a strategy to get there, and our plan for atleast 90 per cent clean energy by 2030 is a critical component. Our plan to power the new economy includes a commitment to:Ensure that energy generation is at least 90% renewable by 2030 and our energyefficiency is doubled
The Australian Greens have ,a strategy to get there, and our plan for atleast 90 per cent clean energy by 2030 is a critical component. Our plan to power the new economy includes a commitment to:Ensure that energy generation is at least 90% renewable by 2030 and our energyefficiency is doubled Establish a new $500 million (over 5 years) government authority – RenewAustralia – tasked with planning and driving the transitionto a new clean energy system to leverage $5 billion of construction in new energy generation over the next four years
Our plan to power the new economy includes a commitment to:Ensure that energy generation is at least 90% renewable by 2030 and our energyefficiency is doubled Establish a new $500 million (over 5 years) government authority – RenewAustralia – tasked with planning and driving the transitionto a new clean energy system to leverage $5 billion of construction in new energy generation over the next four years Create a $1 billion (over 15 years) Clean Energy Transition Fund to assist coal workers and communities with the transition
Establish a new $500 million (over 5 years) government authority – RenewAustralia – tasked with planning and driving the transitionto a new clean energy system to leverage $5 billion of construction in new energy generation over the next four years Create a $1 billion (over 15 years) Clean Energy Transition Fund to assist coal workers and communities with the transition •Implement pollution intensity standards to enable the gradual, staged closure of coal fired power stations, starting with Australia’s dirtiest — Hazelwood.
Create a $1 billion (over 15 years) Clean Energy Transition Fund to assist coal workers and communities with the transition •Implement pollution intensity standards to enable the gradual, staged closure of coal fired power stations, starting with Australia’s dirtiest — Hazelwood. WE’RE UP TO THE CHALLENGE
•Implement pollution intensity standards to enable the gradual, staged closure of coal fired power stations, starting with Australia’s dirtiest — Hazelwood. WE’RE UP TO THE CHALLENGE The Greens have a proven track record when it comes to tackling global warming and creating a clean economy.
WE’RE UP TO THE CHALLENGE The Greens have a proven track record when it comes to tackling global warming and creating a clean economy. We delivered in the last Parliament in spades when we negotiated, in the words of the International Energy Agency, model climate legislation that delivered $13 billion to clean energy through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency and the Clean Energy Finance Corporation and, of course, a price on pollution.
The Greens have a proven track record when it comes to tackling global warming and creating a clean economy. We delivered in the last Parliament in spades when we negotiated, in the words of the International Energy Agency, model climate legislation that delivered $13 billion to clean energy through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency and the Clean Energy Finance Corporation and, of course, a price on pollution. REPOWERING OUR COMMUNITIES
We delivered in the last Parliament in spades when we negotiated, in the words of the International Energy Agency, model climate legislation that delivered $13 billion to clean energy through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency and the Clean Energy Finance Corporation and, of course, a price on pollution. REPOWERING OUR COMMUNITIES Australians love clean energy, and we all want to do our bit to tackle global warming.
REPOWERING OUR COMMUNITIES Australians love clean energy, and we all want to do our bit to tackle global warming. The Greens have a vision for every Australian to be able to power their own home or business using the clean energy they generate themselves.
Australians love clean energy, and we all want to do our bit to tackle global warming. The Greens have a vision for every Australian to be able to power their own home or business using the clean energy they generate themselves. While the old parties hold on to the dirty, polluting industries of the past; the Greens have  a plan to take the power from the big polluters and give it back to the community.
The Greens have a vision for every Australian to be able to power their own home or business using the clean energy they generate themselves. While the old parties hold on to the dirty, polluting industries of the past; the Greens have  a plan to take the power from the big polluters and give it back to the community. With support for community owned renewable energy, battery storage and solar energy, we can transition to a clean energy future
While the old parties hold on to the dirty, polluting industries of the past; the Greens have  a plan to take the power from the big polluters and give it back to the community. With support for community owned renewable energy, battery storage and solar energy, we can transition to a clean energy future This suite of measures is aimed at breaking down all the barriers that prevent businesses and households from installing clean energy and using it as efficiently as possible.
With support for community owned renewable energy, battery storage and solar energy, we can transition to a clean energy future This suite of measures is aimed at breaking down all the barriers that prevent businesses and households from installing clean energy and using it as efficiently as possible. We want to help consumers take power away from big energy companies and democratize our energy system.
This suite of measures is aimed at breaking down all the barriers that prevent businesses and households from installing clean energy and using it as efficiently as possible. We want to help consumers take power away from big energy companies and democratize our energy system. Our plan to repower our communitiesincludes a commitment to:Power our community with community owned renewable energy by incentivizing investment in community clean energyprojects through tax breaks
We want to help consumers take power away from big energy companies and democratize our energy system. Our plan to repower our communitiesincludes a commitment to:Power our community with community owned renewable energy by incentivizing investment in community clean energyprojects through tax breaks establish a $150 million start-up fund to get 50 Community Energy powerhouses up and running with up to two years of operational funding.
Our plan to repower our communitiesincludes a commitment to:Power our community with community owned renewable energy by incentivizing investment in community clean energyprojects through tax breaks establish a $150 million start-up fund to get 50 Community Energy powerhouses up and running with up to two years of operational funding. •The Greens will expand and support the Solar Communities Program with funding of $102.9 million
establish a $150 million start-up fund to get 50 Community Energy powerhouses up and running with up to two years of operational funding. •The Greens will expand and support the Solar Communities Program with funding of $102.9 million Help Australian households and businesses to take control of their power, reduce their bills, and create more solar jobs through a $5 million information campaign to promote the Clean Energy Finance Corporation’s schemes to support solar installation in households and businesses
•The Greens will expand and support the Solar Communities Program with funding of $102.9 million Help Australian households and businesses to take control of their power, reduce their bills, and create more solar jobs through a $5 million information campaign to promote the Clean Energy Finance Corporation’s schemes to support solar installation in households and businesses Help 1.2 million homes get battery storage by introducing a 50 per cent refundable tax credit for individuals to assist with the cost of household solar energy storage systems and introducing a grant for low income households
Help Australian households and businesses to take control of their power, reduce their bills, and create more solar jobs through a $5 million information campaign to promote the Clean Energy Finance Corporation’s schemes to support solar installation in households and businesses Help 1.2 million homes get battery storage by introducing a 50 per cent refundable tax credit for individuals to assist with the cost of household solar energy storage systems and introducing a grant for low income households ensuring a fair price for solar
Help 1.2 million homes get battery storage by introducing a 50 per cent refundable tax credit for individuals to assist with the cost of household solar energy storage systems and introducing a grant for low income households ensuring a fair price for solar A national program for schools to invest in clean energy
ensuring a fair price for solar A national program for schools to invest in clean energy establishing a Solar Ombudsman  to facilitate a 'right to solar' for renters
A national program for schools to invest in clean energy establishing a Solar Ombudsman  to facilitate a 'right to solar' for renters Changing legislation to increase access to solar energy and modernise our energy system
establishing a Solar Ombudsman  to facilitate a 'right to solar' for renters Changing legislation to increase access to solar energy and modernise our energy system A nationwide retrofit of Australia’s public and community housing stock of 421,000 dwellings by 2030 with rooftop solar and energy efficiency to make them cheaper to run and more comfortable to live in
Changing legislation to increase access to solar energy and modernise our energy system A nationwide retrofit of Australia’s public and community housing stock of 421,000 dwellings by 2030 with rooftop solar and energy efficiency to make them cheaper to run and more comfortable to live in BUILDING OUR CLEAN TRANSPORT FUTURE
A nationwide retrofit of Australia’s public and community housing stock of 421,000 dwellings by 2030 with rooftop solar and energy efficiency to make them cheaper to run and more comfortable to live in BUILDING OUR CLEAN TRANSPORT FUTURE People spend too much time stuck in traffic.
BUILDING OUR CLEAN TRANSPORT FUTURE People spend too much time stuck in traffic. It’s bad for people and bad for the planet
People spend too much time stuck in traffic. It’s bad for people and bad for the planet We urgently need to reduce our reliance on coal, gas and oil in fuelling how we get around and cut our transport-related pollution.
It’s bad for people and bad for the planet We urgently need to reduce our reliance on coal, gas and oil in fuelling how we get around and cut our transport-related pollution. A world-class public transport system will fix traffic congestion and make our economy more productive
We urgently need to reduce our reliance on coal, gas and oil in fuelling how we get around and cut our transport-related pollution. A world-class public transport system will fix traffic congestion and make our economy more productive Instead of polluting toll roads, the Greens will invest $25 billion over ten years for public transport infrastructure, low pollution buses and light rail.
A world-class public transport system will fix traffic congestion and make our economy more productive Instead of polluting toll roads, the Greens will invest $25 billion over ten years for public transport infrastructure, low pollution buses and light rail. In addition, the Greens are committed to investment in cycling and walking infrastructure as a smart, cost-effective way to reduce traffic congestion and pollution.
Instead of polluting toll roads, the Greens will invest $25 billion over ten years for public transport infrastructure, low pollution buses and light rail. In addition, the Greens are committed to investment in cycling and walking infrastructure as a smart, cost-effective way to reduce traffic congestion and pollution. We’re also driving the transition from petroleum to electric vehicles, by providing incentives for Australian consumers, businesses and government to take up clean electric vehicle technologies.
In addition, the Greens are committed to investment in cycling and walking infrastructure as a smart, cost-effective way to reduce traffic congestion and pollution. We’re also driving the transition from petroleum to electric vehicles, by providing incentives for Australian consumers, businesses and government to take up clean electric vehicle technologies. Our plan to build our clean energy future will make our cities and towns more liveable, and reduce pollution that is bad for our health and our climate.
We’re also driving the transition from petroleum to electric vehicles, by providing incentives for Australian consumers, businesses and government to take up clean electric vehicle technologies. Our plan to build our clean energy future will make our cities and towns more liveable, and reduce pollution that is bad for our health and our climate. The Greens have a plan to build our clean transport future that would:Put public transport first through investing $25 billion over 10 years into a range of efficient public transport projects as first priority, before more urban mega-roads.
Our plan to build our clean energy future will make our cities and towns more liveable, and reduce pollution that is bad for our health and our climate. The Greens have a plan to build our clean transport future that would:Put public transport first through investing $25 billion over 10 years into a range of efficient public transport projects as first priority, before more urban mega-roads. This investment is sourced via the Greens’ Australian Infrastructure Bank, which will manage financing of these investments
The Greens have a plan to build our clean transport future that would:Put public transport first through investing $25 billion over 10 years into a range of efficient public transport projects as first priority, before more urban mega-roads. This investment is sourced via the Greens’ Australian Infrastructure Bank, which will manage financing of these investments Establish an Active Transport Fund worth $250 million annually for cycling and walking infrastructure
This investment is sourced via the Greens’ Australian Infrastructure Bank, which will manage financing of these investments Establish an Active Transport Fund worth $250 million annually for cycling and walking infrastructure Reduce road trauma by committing $300 million in additional funding for the Black Spot road safety program
Establish an Active Transport Fund worth $250 million annually for cycling and walking infrastructure Reduce road trauma by committing $300 million in additional funding for the Black Spot road safety program Help to get 31,000 more electric vehicles on the road by 2021 and 3,500 more charging stations around the country through a suite of initiatives that will accelerate the take up of electric vehicle technology around Australia
Reduce road trauma by committing $300 million in additional funding for the Black Spot road safety program Help to get 31,000 more electric vehicles on the road by 2021 and 3,500 more charging stations around the country through a suite of initiatives that will accelerate the take up of electric vehicle technology around Australia Fast-track high-speed rail to ensure more Australians can access reliable public transport
Help to get 31,000 more electric vehicles on the road by 2021 and 3,500 more charging stations around the country through a suite of initiatives that will accelerate the take up of electric vehicle technology around Australia Fast-track high-speed rail to ensure more Australians can access reliable public transport LIVING WITH GLOBAL WARMING
Fast-track high-speed rail to ensure more Australians can access reliable public transport LIVING WITH GLOBAL WARMING Australia is the driest inhabited continent on earth with huge coastal cities.
LIVING WITH GLOBAL WARMING Australia is the driest inhabited continent on earth with huge coastal cities. We must urgently cut climate pollution, but some dangers are now inevitable.
Australia is the driest inhabited continent on earth with huge coastal cities. We must urgently cut climate pollution, but some dangers are now inevitable. Even if the world makes rapid cuts in pollution, extreme weather, floods, fires and other natural disasters are projected to increase with global warming.
We must urgently cut climate pollution, but some dangers are now inevitable. Even if the world makes rapid cuts in pollution, extreme weather, floods, fires and other natural disasters are projected to increase with global warming. We are already feeling the impacts of global warming.
Even if the world makes rapid cuts in pollution, extreme weather, floods, fires and other natural disasters are projected to increase with global warming. We are already feeling the impacts of global warming. This year, 2016, is set to be the hottest on record, breaking the records set in 2014 and again in 2015.
We are already feeling the impacts of global warming. This year, 2016, is set to be the hottest on record, breaking the records set in 2014 and again in 2015. With just one degree of warming, we already have mass bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef, and swathes of Tasmania’s ancient wilderness have burned out of control.
This year, 2016, is set to be the hottest on record, breaking the records set in 2014 and again in 2015. With just one degree of warming, we already have mass bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef, and swathes of Tasmania’s ancient wilderness have burned out of control. We have the tools to fix this crisis and there are immense opportunities in jobs-rich clean energy, but some impacts are already unavoidable.
With just one degree of warming, we already have mass bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef, and swathes of Tasmania’s ancient wilderness have burned out of control. We have the tools to fix this crisis and there are immense opportunities in jobs-rich clean energy, but some impacts are already unavoidable. The Greens have a plan to adapt to the impacts which are already ‘locked in’, understanding our communities and infrastructure need to be resilient and prepared.
We have the tools to fix this crisis and there are immense opportunities in jobs-rich clean energy, but some impacts are already unavoidable. The Greens have a plan to adapt to the impacts which are already ‘locked in’, understanding our communities and infrastructure need to be resilient and prepared. The Greens’ plan to better protect and prepare the Australian community includes a commitment to: Double the number of paid firefighters in both urban and rural areas by 2030 with an initial $120 million over the first four years.
The Greens have a plan to adapt to the impacts which are already ‘locked in’, understanding our communities and infrastructure need to be resilient and prepared. The Greens’ plan to better protect and prepare the Australian community includes a commitment to: Double the number of paid firefighters in both urban and rural areas by 2030 with an initial $120 million over the first four years. Fund natural disaster preparedness such as disaster proofing infrastructure,
The Greens’ plan to better protect and prepare the Australian community includes a commitment to: Double the number of paid firefighters in both urban and rural areas by 2030 with an initial $120 million over the first four years. Fund natural disaster preparedness such as disaster proofing infrastructure, building resilience and supporting rural fire services and the SES
Fund natural disaster preparedness such as disaster proofing infrastructure, building resilience and supporting rural fire services and the SES Secure the future of climate change adaptation research by funding the National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility with a five-year, $50 million commitment
building resilience and supporting rural fire services and the SES Secure the future of climate change adaptation research by funding the National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility with a five-year, $50 million commitment Plan for rising seas, by supporting state and local governments to invest in strategies to address inevitable sea level rise
Secure the future of climate change adaptation research by funding the National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility with a five-year, $50 million commitment Plan for rising seas, by supporting state and local governments to invest in strategies to address inevitable sea level rise THE END OF COAL
Plan for rising seas, by supporting state and local governments to invest in strategies to address inevitable sea level rise THE END OF COAL The climate can’t take any more new coal or gas.
THE END OF COAL The climate can’t take any more new coal or gas. The mining and burning of coal is driving dangerous globalwarming which threatens to kill our precious places like the Great Barrier Reef, and the 69,000 jobs it supports.
The climate can’t take any more new coal or gas. The mining and burning of coal is driving dangerous globalwarming which threatens to kill our precious places like the Great Barrier Reef, and the 69,000 jobs it supports. Around 90 per cent of the coal we dig up is exported – roughly 1 billion tonnes of Reefwrecking pollution, which is double Australia’s domestic pollution levels.
The mining and burning of coal is driving dangerous globalwarming which threatens to kill our precious places like the Great Barrier Reef, and the 69,000 jobs it supports. Around 90 per cent of the coal we dig up is exported – roughly 1 billion tonnes of Reefwrecking pollution, which is double Australia’s domestic pollution levels. Our Great Barrier Reef and our food producing land shouldn’t be subjected to any new coal or gas mines or expansions when we have abundant clean energy that is reliable, creates more jobs and won’t worsen global warming.
Around 90 per cent of the coal we dig up is exported – roughly 1 billion tonnes of Reefwrecking pollution, which is double Australia’s domestic pollution levels. Our Great Barrier Reef and our food producing land shouldn’t be subjected to any new coal or gas mines or expansions when we have abundant clean energy that is reliable, creates more jobs and won’t worsen global warming. The dirty energy industry is in freefall and we need to prepare now for the inevitable transition.
Our Great Barrier Reef and our food producing land shouldn’t be subjected to any new coal or gas mines or expansions when we have abundant clean energy that is reliable, creates more jobs and won’t worsen global warming. The dirty energy industry is in freefall and we need to prepare now for the inevitable transition. The Greens want to ensure a bright future for currently coal dependent communities and our environment, by making sure coal companies pay for the damage they are doing.
The dirty energy industry is in freefall and we need to prepare now for the inevitable transition. The Greens want to ensure a bright future for currently coal dependent communities and our environment, by making sure coal companies pay for the damage they are doing. That money can be reinvested into clean energy projects, climate adaptation and our precious places like the Reef, and create new, long-term jobs.
The Greens want to ensure a bright future for currently coal dependent communities and our environment, by making sure coal companies pay for the damage they are doing. That money can be reinvested into clean energy projects, climate adaptation and our precious places like the Reef, and create new, long-term jobs. To manage the transition away from coal, the Greens plan includes a commitment to:Say no to new coal or gas – the dirty energy industry is in freefall and we need
That money can be reinvested into clean energy projects, climate adaptation and our precious places like the Reef, and create new, long-term jobs. To manage the transition away from coal, the Greens plan includes a commitment to:Say no to new coal or gas – the dirty energy industry is in freefall and we need Create a $1 billion (over 15 Years) Clean Energy Transition Fund help workers and communities adjust to transition
To manage the transition away from coal, the Greens plan includes a commitment to:Say no to new coal or gas – the dirty energy industry is in freefall and we need Create a $1 billion (over 15 Years) Clean Energy Transition Fund help workers and communities adjust to transition Re-implement a price on carbon, with coal and gas exporters paying the full cost of the greenhouse gases that leak from mining operations
Create a $1 billion (over 15 Years) Clean Energy Transition Fund help workers and communities adjust to transition Re-implement a price on carbon, with coal and gas exporters paying the full cost of the greenhouse gases that leak from mining operations Stop giving miners tax-free fuel, while the rest of us pay 39¢ a litre – this would save the government $6 billion a year in subsidies
Re-implement a price on carbon, with coal and gas exporters paying the full cost of the greenhouse gases that leak from mining operations Stop giving miners tax-free fuel, while the rest of us pay 39¢ a litre – this would save the government $6 billion a year in subsidies Secure jobs in mine rehabilitation before the big mining companies flee overseas and leave workers in the lurch by conducting an audit of rehabilitation costs and collecting money up-front
Stop giving miners tax-free fuel, while the rest of us pay 39¢ a litre – this would save the government $6 billion a year in subsidies Secure jobs in mine rehabilitation before the big mining companies flee overseas and leave workers in the lurch by conducting an audit of rehabilitation costs and collecting money up-front A CONFIDENT AUSTRALIA
Secure jobs in mine rehabilitation before the big mining companies flee overseas and leave workers in the lurch by conducting an audit of rehabilitation costs and collecting money up-front A CONFIDENT AUSTRALIA Australia is a prosperous country with a proud tradition of a fair go.
A CONFIDENT AUSTRALIA Australia is a prosperous country with a proud tradition of a fair go. We are a generous and caring nation.
Australia is a prosperous country with a proud tradition of a fair go. We are a generous and caring nation. We can welcome people seeking asylum who will help build our communities and contribute to our economy, becoming an asset to Australia for generations and helping make our country stronger than it has ever been.
We are a generous and caring nation. We can welcome people seeking asylum who will help build our communities and contribute to our economy, becoming an asset to Australia for generations and helping make our country stronger than it has ever been. As a wealthy nation, Australia should provide care and support for less developed countries, and contribute our fair share to alleviate povertyand long term development.
We can welcome people seeking asylum who will help build our communities and contribute to our economy, becoming an asset to Australia for generations and helping make our country stronger than it has ever been. As a wealthy nation, Australia should provide care and support for less developed countries, and contribute our fair share to alleviate povertyand long term development. Australia must engage with the world, not turn our backs on it.
As a wealthy nation, Australia should provide care and support for less developed countries, and contribute our fair share to alleviate povertyand long term development. Australia must engage with the world, not turn our backs on it. We need to transition our defence and foreign policies to be multilateraland cooperative, asserting ourselves as a responsible and independent player in the international community.
Australia must engage with the world, not turn our backs on it. We need to transition our defence and foreign policies to be multilateraland cooperative, asserting ourselves as a responsible and independent player in the international community. In order to be an outward-looking, futurefocused country, Australia must have the self-confidence that can only come once we are a republic.
We need to transition our defence and foreign policies to be multilateraland cooperative, asserting ourselves as a responsible and independent player in the international community. In order to be an outward-looking, futurefocused country, Australia must have the self-confidence that can only come once we are a republic. The Greens’ plan for a confident Australia includes a commitment to: Create a safe way for people to seek asylum in Australia, givingthem a better option than a boat journey and undercutting the people smuggler’s business model
In order to be an outward-looking, futurefocused country, Australia must have the self-confidence that can only come once we are a republic. The Greens’ plan for a confident Australia includes a commitment to: Create a safe way for people to seek asylum in Australia, givingthem a better option than a boat journey and undercutting the people smuggler’s business model Commit our fair share towardpoverty alleviation and development by increasing our overseas aid to 0.7% of GNI over the coming decade
The Greens’ plan for a confident Australia includes a commitment to: Create a safe way for people to seek asylum in Australia, givingthem a better option than a boat journey and undercutting the people smuggler’s business model Commit our fair share towardpoverty alleviation and development by increasing our overseas aid to 0.7% of GNI over the coming decade Take a diplomacy-first approach to defence and foreign affairs,emphasising nonviolent global cooperation
Commit our fair share towardpoverty alleviation and development by increasing our overseas aid to 0.7% of GNI over the coming decade Take a diplomacy-first approach to defence and foreign affairs,emphasising nonviolent global cooperation Move Australia towards becoming a Republic with an Australian headof state
Take a diplomacy-first approach to defence and foreign affairs,emphasising nonviolent global cooperation Move Australia towards becoming a Republic with an Australian headof state A BETTER WAY TO WELCOME PEOPLE SEEKING ASYLUM
Move Australia towards becoming a Republic with an Australian headof state A BETTER WAY TO WELCOME PEOPLE SEEKING ASYLUM We have a proud history of welcoming people to our country and helping those who are in need.
A BETTER WAY TO WELCOME PEOPLE SEEKING ASYLUM We have a proud history of welcoming people to our country and helping those who are in need. We need to create a safe way for people to seek asylum inAustralia; the Greens don’t want to see people risking their lives by getting on boats.
We have a proud history of welcoming people to our country and helping those who are in need. We need to create a safe way for people to seek asylum inAustralia; the Greens don’t want to see people risking their lives by getting on boats. If we assess people’s claim’s efficiently and fairly, then fly them to Australia directly, we undercut the people smuggler’s business model because nobody will need to riskgetting on a leaky boat.
We need to create a safe way for people to seek asylum inAustralia; the Greens don’t want to see people risking their lives by getting on boats. If we assess people’s claim’s efficiently and fairly, then fly them to Australia directly, we undercut the people smuggler’s business model because nobody will need to riskgetting on a leaky boat. The other parties’ policies have failed and they are harming people.
If we assess people’s claim’s efficiently and fairly, then fly them to Australia directly, we undercut the people smuggler’s business model because nobody will need to riskgetting on a leaky boat. The other parties’ policies have failed and they are harming people. It’s up to us to build a better way.
The other parties’ policies have failed and they are harming people. It’s up to us to build a better way. The billions of dollars that we will save from closing down the Manus Island and Nauru detention camps will be reinvested in helpingmore people than ever before.
It’s up to us to build a better way. The billions of dollars that we will save from closing down the Manus Island and Nauru detention camps will be reinvested in helpingmore people than ever before. Australians have been let down by more than a decade of failed leadership on this issue.
The billions of dollars that we will save from closing down the Manus Island and Nauru detention camps will be reinvested in helpingmore people than ever before. Australians have been let down by more than a decade of failed leadership on this issue. The Greens bold and responsible visionincludes a commitment to:Help 50,000 people who are in need of protection each year, including 10,000 people under a new ‘skilled refugee’ programme
Australians have been let down by more than a decade of failed leadership on this issue. The Greens bold and responsible visionincludes a commitment to:Help 50,000 people who are in need of protection each year, including 10,000 people under a new ‘skilled refugee’ programme Remove all children and their families from detention immediately, including those in offshore detention and on Nauru
The Greens bold and responsible visionincludes a commitment to:Help 50,000 people who are in need of protection each year, including 10,000 people under a new ‘skilled refugee’ programme Remove all children and their families from detention immediately, including those in offshore detention and on Nauru Shut the detention camps on Manus Island and Nauru and abolish the practice of offshore detention
Remove all children and their families from detention immediately, including those in offshore detention and on Nauru Shut the detention camps on Manus Island and Nauru and abolish the practice of offshore detention Give $500 million to assessment and support organisations in our region to speed up the process and give people access to educationand work rights while they wait
Shut the detention camps on Manus Island and Nauru and abolish the practice of offshore detention Give $500 million to assessment and support organisations in our region to speed up the process and give people access to educationand work rights while they wait Abolish temporary protection visas and provide permanent protection to people seeking safety
Give $500 million to assessment and support organisations in our region to speed up the process and give people access to educationand work rights while they wait Abolish temporary protection visas and provide permanent protection to people seeking safety Establish a royal commission to shine a light on the decades of damage and devastation caused by the policy of holding children and their families in detention
Abolish temporary protection visas and provide permanent protection to people seeking safety Establish a royal commission to shine a light on the decades of damage and devastation caused by the policy of holding children and their families in detention Introduce a 30-day time limit for people held in on-shore immigration detention
Establish a royal commission to shine a light on the decades of damage and devastation caused by the policy of holding children and their families in detention Introduce a 30-day time limit for people held in on-shore immigration detention THE GREENS WILL: Increase the number of people Australia helps from 13,750 to 50,000 per year
Introduce a 30-day time limit for people held in on-shore immigration detention THE GREENS WILL: Increase the number of people Australia helps from 13,750 to 50,000 per year Fairly and efficiently assess people’s refugee claims wherethey are waiting then fly them to Australia safely
THE GREENS WILL: Increase the number of people Australia helps from 13,750 to 50,000 per year Fairly and efficiently assess people’s refugee claims wherethey are waiting then fly them to Australia safely Establish a Skilled Refugee visa program for 10,000 people
Fairly and efficiently assess people’s refugee claims wherethey are waiting then fly them to Australia safely Establish a Skilled Refugee visa program for 10,000 people OVERSEAS AID: TOWARDS 0.7% OF GNI
Establish a Skilled Refugee visa program for 10,000 people OVERSEAS AID: TOWARDS 0.7% OF GNI Australia’s overseas aid contributions have been slashed to record lows.
OVERSEAS AID: TOWARDS 0.7% OF GNI Australia’s overseas aid contributions have been slashed to record lows. We are a rich country and can afford to provide assistance to disadvantaged communities in low-income countries.
Australia’s overseas aid contributions have been slashed to record lows. We are a rich country and can afford to provide assistance to disadvantaged communities in low-income countries. To meet the Sustainable Development Goals to end poverty, ensure universal education and gender equity, and improve child and maternal health, the United Nations agreed that developed nations should devote 0.7 per cent of GNI to overseas aid.
We are a rich country and can afford to provide assistance to disadvantaged communities in low-income countries. To meet the Sustainable Development Goals to end poverty, ensure universal education and gender equity, and improve child and maternal health, the United Nations agreed that developed nations should devote 0.7 per cent of GNI to overseas aid. The old parties formerly committed to this target, but have since slashed aid funding to record lows.
To meet the Sustainable Development Goals to end poverty, ensure universal education and gender equity, and improve child and maternal health, the United Nations agreed that developed nations should devote 0.7 per cent of GNI to overseas aid. The old parties formerly committed to this target, but have since slashed aid funding to record lows. Other countries around the world, including Norway, Sweden, Denmark and the Netherlands, met this target years ago.
The old parties formerly committed to this target, but have since slashed aid funding to record lows. Other countries around the world, including Norway, Sweden, Denmark and the Netherlands, met this target years ago. The British Government under David Cameron passed a bill last year that ensured that 0.7 per cent of British GNI would be put towards overseas development goals each year.
Other countries around the world, including Norway, Sweden, Denmark and the Netherlands, met this target years ago. The British Government under David Cameron passed a bill last year that ensured that 0.7 per cent of British GNI would be put towards overseas development goals each year. Australia is lagging well behind, to the detriment of our poorest neighbours.
The British Government under David Cameron passed a bill last year that ensured that 0.7 per cent of British GNI would be put towards overseas development goals each year. Australia is lagging well behind, to the detriment of our poorest neighbours. As a wealthy nation, Australia should provide care and support for less developed countries and contribute our ‘fair share’ to poverty alleviation and long-term development.
Australia is lagging well behind, to the detriment of our poorest neighbours. As a wealthy nation, Australia should provide care and support for less developed countries and contribute our ‘fair share’ to poverty alleviation and long-term development. The Greens plan to contribute our fair share of overseas aid includes a commitment to:  Increase our overseas aid contributions to 0.7% of GNI over the coming decade
As a wealthy nation, Australia should provide care and support for less developed countries and contribute our ‘fair share’ to poverty alleviation and long-term development. The Greens plan to contribute our fair share of overseas aid includes a commitment to:  Increase our overseas aid contributions to 0.7% of GNI over the coming decade Ensure the purpose and impact of aid is transparent and accountable
The Greens plan to contribute our fair share of overseas aid includes a commitment to:  Increase our overseas aid contributions to 0.7% of GNI over the coming decade Ensure the purpose and impact of aid is transparent and accountable Provide greater focus on strengthening health systems to address sexual and reproductive health, and the prevention and consequences of HIV-AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis and non-communicable diseases.
Ensure the purpose and impact of aid is transparent and accountable Provide greater focus on strengthening health systems to address sexual and reproductive health, and the prevention and consequences of HIV-AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis and non-communicable diseases. Increase transparency, accountability and effectiveness of gender equality in our aid program
Provide greater focus on strengthening health systems to address sexual and reproductive health, and the prevention and consequences of HIV-AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis and non-communicable diseases. Increase transparency, accountability and effectiveness of gender equality in our aid program PEACE AND SECURITY
Increase transparency, accountability and effectiveness of gender equality in our aid program PEACE AND SECURITY Australia should take an independent and globally responsible approach to our foreign affairs and defence policies.
PEACE AND SECURITY Australia should take an independent and globally responsible approach to our foreign affairs and defence policies. International cooperation rather than military intervention is needed toresolve most of the major foreign policy challenges that Australia faces.
Australia should take an independent and globally responsible approach to our foreign affairs and defence policies. International cooperation rather than military intervention is needed toresolve most of the major foreign policy challenges that Australia faces. Global warming looms as a multiplier of threats and an ongoing trigger of instability throughout the world.
International cooperation rather than military intervention is needed toresolve most of the major foreign policy challenges that Australia faces. Global warming looms as a multiplier of threats and an ongoing trigger of instability throughout the world. In our region, humanitarian crises and natural disasters will become more frequent.
Global warming looms as a multiplier of threats and an ongoing trigger of instability throughout the world. In our region, humanitarian crises and natural disasters will become more frequent. The relationship Australia has with our neighbours in the Asia-Pacific should be front and centre to our foreign policy.
In our region, humanitarian crises and natural disasters will become more frequent. The relationship Australia has with our neighbours in the Asia-Pacific should be front and centre to our foreign policy. Our priority should be to assist fragile states in our region in restoringpeace, stability and the rule-of-law.
The relationship Australia has with our neighbours in the Asia-Pacific should be front and centre to our foreign policy. Our priority should be to assist fragile states in our region in restoringpeace, stability and the rule-of-law. In the face of humanitarian crises and natural disasters, we need to make sure our defence force is well equipped to assist those most in need.
Our priority should be to assist fragile states in our region in restoringpeace, stability and the rule-of-law. In the face of humanitarian crises and natural disasters, we need to make sure our defence force is well equipped to assist those most in need. Through an independent approach to our foreign affairs and defence policies, we can ensure Australia acts as a confident and constructiveplayer in our region and the world – one that respects international law, protects human rights, and advocates for our values.
In the face of humanitarian crises and natural disasters, we need to make sure our defence force is well equipped to assist those most in need. Through an independent approach to our foreign affairs and defence policies, we can ensure Australia acts as a confident and constructiveplayer in our region and the world – one that respects international law, protects human rights, and advocates for our values. The Greens plan for a confident Australia includes a commitment to: Pursue an independent foreign policy that puts the needs of Australians first
Through an independent approach to our foreign affairs and defence policies, we can ensure Australia acts as a confident and constructiveplayer in our region and the world – one that respects international law, protects human rights, and advocates for our values. The Greens plan for a confident Australia includes a commitment to: Pursue an independent foreign policy that puts the needs of Australians first Require parliamentary approval for the deployment of Australian troops overseas
The Greens plan for a confident Australia includes a commitment to: Pursue an independent foreign policy that puts the needs of Australians first Require parliamentary approval for the deployment of Australian troops overseas Focus on our region, ensuring that the Australian Defence Force is well equipped to assist our neighbours with humanitarian and disaster relief
Require parliamentary approval for the deployment of Australian troops overseas Focus on our region, ensuring that the Australian Defence Force is well equipped to assist our neighbours with humanitarian and disaster relief Return defence spending to long-term trend levels, and ensure procurement and spending is based on risk assessment, not politics –including cancelling the hugely problematic contract to purchase 72 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters
Focus on our region, ensuring that the Australian Defence Force is well equipped to assist our neighbours with humanitarian and disaster relief Return defence spending to long-term trend levels, and ensure procurement and spending is based on risk assessment, not politics –including cancelling the hugely problematic contract to purchase 72 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters Promote and support global nuclear disarmament, including a global treaty to ban nuclear weapons
Return defence spending to long-term trend levels, and ensure procurement and spending is based on risk assessment, not politics –including cancelling the hugely problematic contract to purchase 72 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters Promote and support global nuclear disarmament, including a global treaty to ban nuclear weapons TOWARDS AN AUSTRALIAN REPUBLIC
Promote and support global nuclear disarmament, including a global treaty to ban nuclear weapons TOWARDS AN AUSTRALIAN REPUBLIC There’s never been a better time for Australia to become a republic.
TOWARDS AN AUSTRALIAN REPUBLIC There’s never been a better time for Australia to become a republic. With all three federal political leaders in favour of a republic, and with the state and territory leaders declaring their support, there’s more momentum than ever before.
There’s never been a better time for Australia to become a republic. With all three federal political leaders in favour of a republic, and with the state and territory leaders declaring their support, there’s more momentum than ever before. Currently, Australia’s head of state is inherited from overseas and is determined by birth rather than merit.
With all three federal political leaders in favour of a republic, and with the state and territory leaders declaring their support, there’s more momentum than ever before. Currently, Australia’s head of state is inherited from overseas and is determined by birth rather than merit. A confident Australia needs an Australian head of state that will placeAustralian people and institutions at the heart of their work.
Currently, Australia’s head of state is inherited from overseas and is determined by birth rather than merit. A confident Australia needs an Australian head of state that will placeAustralian people and institutions at the heart of their work. Australian children born today should have the opportunity to hold thisposition into the future.
A confident Australia needs an Australian head of state that will placeAustralian people and institutions at the heart of their work. Australian children born today should have the opportunity to hold thisposition into the future. Australia has our own values and identity, and we have carved ourselves an independent place in the world.
Australian children born today should have the opportunity to hold thisposition into the future. Australia has our own values and identity, and we have carved ourselves an independent place in the world. That should be reflected in independent government institutions, and an Australian head of state.
Australia has our own values and identity, and we have carved ourselves an independent place in the world. That should be reflected in independent government institutions, and an Australian head of state. The Greens have a plan to move toward an Australian Republic which includes a commitment to: Use a combination of online and direct citizen forums across the country to consult with Australians and organisations about whetheror not Australia should become a republic and explore possible models
That should be reflected in independent government institutions, and an Australian head of state. The Greens have a plan to move toward an Australian Republic which includes a commitment to: Use a combination of online and direct citizen forums across the country to consult with Australians and organisations about whetheror not Australia should become a republic and explore possible models Address the threshold question and models for a republic informed by the state and territory discussions through a jury of citizens
The Greens have a plan to move toward an Australian Republic which includes a commitment to: Use a combination of online and direct citizen forums across the country to consult with Australians and organisations about whetheror not Australia should become a republic and explore possible models Address the threshold question and models for a republic informed by the state and territory discussions through a jury of citizens Hold a plebiscite on the threshold question to allow Australians to indicate their support for a republic before voting on any specific republican model
Address the threshold question and models for a republic informed by the state and territory discussions through a jury of citizens Hold a plebiscite on the threshold question to allow Australians to indicate their support for a republic before voting on any specific republican model Hold a national convention on the republic to work on technical aspects of constitutional amendments following the outcome of the plebiscite
Hold a plebiscite on the threshold question to allow Australians to indicate their support for a republic before voting on any specific republican model Hold a national convention on the republic to work on technical aspects of constitutional amendments following the outcome of the plebiscite Conclude with a referendum to formally put a proposal for a constitutional change to the Australian people
Hold a national convention on the republic to work on technical aspects of constitutional amendments following the outcome of the plebiscite Conclude with a referendum to formally put a proposal for a constitutional change to the Australian people PROTECTING OUR PRECIOUS PLACES
Conclude with a referendum to formally put a proposal for a constitutional change to the Australian people PROTECTING OUR PRECIOUS PLACES From preventing the Great Barrier Reef becoming a coal highway to protecting our native forests from logging and global warming, commitment to our precious places has never been more important.
PROTECTING OUR PRECIOUS PLACES From preventing the Great Barrier Reef becoming a coal highway to protecting our native forests from logging and global warming, commitment to our precious places has never been more important. Around our nation, our environment is under threat from global warming, unsustainable development, mining and pollution – with the full support of the old parties.
From preventing the Great Barrier Reef becoming a coal highway to protecting our native forests from logging and global warming, commitment to our precious places has never been more important. Around our nation, our environment is under threat from global warming, unsustainable development, mining and pollution – with the full support of the old parties. By refusing to admit that massive new coal mines, and new gas fracking are huge contributors to global warming, they are signing the death warrants for some of our most precious natural places.
Around our nation, our environment is under threat from global warming, unsustainable development, mining and pollution – with the full support of the old parties. By refusing to admit that massive new coal mines, and new gas fracking are huge contributors to global warming, they are signing the death warrants for some of our most precious natural places. The Greens were founded on the vision of a robust and healthy environment.
By refusing to admit that massive new coal mines, and new gas fracking are huge contributors to global warming, they are signing the death warrants for some of our most precious natural places. The Greens were founded on the vision of a robust and healthy environment. We'll always stand to protect our precious places now and for future generations.
The Greens were founded on the vision of a robust and healthy environment. We'll always stand to protect our precious places now and for future generations. Dredging for coal and gas ports and mass coral bleaching are threatening the Great Barrier Reef.
We'll always stand to protect our precious places now and for future generations. Dredging for coal and gas ports and mass coral bleaching are threatening the Great Barrier Reef. New coal and gas mining is threatening our forests and food bowls.
Dredging for coal and gas ports and mass coral bleaching are threatening the Great Barrier Reef. New coal and gas mining is threatening our forests and food bowls. Tasmania's incredible World Heritage wilderness is under threat from bushfires driven by global warming.
New coal and gas mining is threatening our forests and food bowls. Tasmania's incredible World Heritage wilderness is under threat from bushfires driven by global warming. Forests and bushlands around the country, and their unique wildlife are under threat from tree clearing and logging.
Tasmania's incredible World Heritage wilderness is under threat from bushfires driven by global warming. Forests and bushlands around the country, and their unique wildlife are under threat from tree clearing and logging. Commitment to our precious places has never been more important. To ensure our reefs, forests and precious places are here for future generations, we must stand up to protect them.
Forests and bushlands around the country, and their unique wildlife are under threat from tree clearing and logging. Commitment to our precious places has never been more important. To ensure our reefs, forests and precious places are here for future generations, we must stand up to protect them. The Greens have a plan to protect our precious places which includesa commitment to:Save our Great Barrier Reef, and invest in the jobs of the future, by transitioning away from coal and gas and implementing measures that will secure the long term health of the Reef
Commitment to our precious places has never been more important. To ensure our reefs, forests and precious places are here for future generations, we must stand up to protect them. The Greens have a plan to protect our precious places which includesa commitment to:Save our Great Barrier Reef, and invest in the jobs of the future, by transitioning away from coal and gas and implementing measures that will secure the long term health of the Reef Enhance the sustainability of our unique environment, includingour native plants and animals, by supporting environmental initiatives like the Biodiversity Fund and Indigenous Rangers
The Greens have a plan to protect our precious places which includesa commitment to:Save our Great Barrier Reef, and invest in the jobs of the future, by transitioning away from coal and gas and implementing measures that will secure the long term health of the Reef Enhance the sustainability of our unique environment, includingour native plants and animals, by supporting environmental initiatives like the Biodiversity Fund and Indigenous Rangers End the destruction of our native forests, and protect our marine ecosystems
Enhance the sustainability of our unique environment, includingour native plants and animals, by supporting environmental initiatives like the Biodiversity Fund and Indigenous Rangers End the destruction of our native forests, and protect our marine ecosystems Deliver a new Environment Act and a tough new independent watchdog, the National Environment Protection Authority
End the destruction of our native forests, and protect our marine ecosystems Deliver a new Environment Act and a tough new independent watchdog, the National Environment Protection Authority PROTECTING OUR GREAT BARRIER REEF
Deliver a new Environment Act and a tough new independent watchdog, the National Environment Protection Authority PROTECTING OUR GREAT BARRIER REEF Our Great Barrier Reef is at a tipping point.
PROTECTING OUR GREAT BARRIER REEF Our Great Barrier Reef is at a tipping point. Leading scientists say that this election is our “last chance” to save the Reef unless we take rapid action on global warming and dramatically cut water pollution.
Our Great Barrier Reef is at a tipping point. Leading scientists say that this election is our “last chance” to save the Reef unless we take rapid action on global warming and dramatically cut water pollution. The Reef is a national treasure, and the 69,000 jobs and $6 billion per year which it brings in for our economy are under threat.
Leading scientists say that this election is our “last chance” to save the Reef unless we take rapid action on global warming and dramatically cut water pollution. The Reef is a national treasure, and the 69,000 jobs and $6 billion per year which it brings in for our economy are under threat. The Greens have a $2.18 billion plan over 5 years to save the Reef.
The Reef is a national treasure, and the 69,000 jobs and $6 billion per year which it brings in for our economy are under threat. The Greens have a $2.18 billion plan over 5 years to save the Reef. Global warming, driven by mining and burning of coal and other fossil fuels, is already destroying parts of the Reef via coral bleaching.
The Greens have a $2.18 billion plan over 5 years to save the Reef. Global warming, driven by mining and burning of coal and other fossil fuels, is already destroying parts of the Reef via coral bleaching. The Reef has lost 50 per cent of its coral cover in the last 30 years and experts warn it could halve again in the next ten years.
Global warming, driven by mining and burning of coal and other fossil fuels, is already destroying parts of the Reef via coral bleaching. The Reef has lost 50 per cent of its coral cover in the last 30 years and experts warn it could halve again in the next ten years. It has recently suffered from the worst ever mass bleaching event affecting 93 per cent of all reefs.
The Reef has lost 50 per cent of its coral cover in the last 30 years and experts warn it could halve again in the next ten years. It has recently suffered from the worst ever mass bleaching event affecting 93 per cent of all reefs. Federal and State governments recognise that the Reef is in danger, but their addiction to coal and fossil fuels means they have not taken the necessary action.
It has recently suffered from the worst ever mass bleaching event affecting 93 per cent of all reefs. Federal and State governments recognise that the Reef is in danger, but their addiction to coal and fossil fuels means they have not taken the necessary action. For instance, the Liberal, Labor and National parties all support the environmentally disastrous and economically reckless Adani mega coal mine.
Federal and State governments recognise that the Reef is in danger, but their addiction to coal and fossil fuels means they have not taken the necessary action. For instance, the Liberal, Labor and National parties all support the environmentally disastrous and economically reckless Adani mega coal mine. The Greens are outlining a plan to meet the scale of the challenge we face.
For instance, the Liberal, Labor and National parties all support the environmentally disastrous and economically reckless Adani mega coal mine. The Greens are outlining a plan to meet the scale of the challenge we face. Our plan to save the Reef includes a commitment to: Act rapidly on global warming, with 90% clean energy by 2030, a ban on new coal mines and fracking projects, a thermal coal export levy, abolition of fossil fuel subsidies and a just transition for workers
The Greens are outlining a plan to meet the scale of the challenge we face. Our plan to save the Reef includes a commitment to: Act rapidly on global warming, with 90% clean energy by 2030, a ban on new coal mines and fracking projects, a thermal coal export levy, abolition of fossil fuel subsidies and a just transition for workers Slash water pollution with a $2 billion fund over five years to help farmers reduce pollution, a legal cap on water pollution, protection against runaway tree clearing, and better monitoring
Our plan to save the Reef includes a commitment to: Act rapidly on global warming, with 90% clean energy by 2030, a ban on new coal mines and fracking projects, a thermal coal export levy, abolition of fossil fuel subsidies and a just transition for workers Slash water pollution with a $2 billion fund over five years to help farmers reduce pollution, a legal cap on water pollution, protection against runaway tree clearing, and better monitoring Stop damaging port expansion and ban all offshore dumping and capital dredging for fossil fuel port expansion by closing the loopholes in the federal and State government’s existing rules
Slash water pollution with a $2 billion fund over five years to help farmers reduce pollution, a legal cap on water pollution, protection against runaway tree clearing, and better monitoring Stop damaging port expansion and ban all offshore dumping and capital dredging for fossil fuel port expansion by closing the loopholes in the federal and State government’s existing rules Strengthen the Reef’s champions, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) and the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) with $90 million in extra funding, independence and stronger powers
Stop damaging port expansion and ban all offshore dumping and capital dredging for fossil fuel port expansion by closing the loopholes in the federal and State government’s existing rules Strengthen the Reef’s champions, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) and the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) with $90 million in extra funding, independence and stronger powers Protect pristine areas like the Fitzroy Delta, Cape York Peninsula, address illegal fishing and make shipping safer by increasing protection for seafarers
Strengthen the Reef’s champions, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) and the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) with $90 million in extra funding, independence and stronger powers Protect pristine areas like the Fitzroy Delta, Cape York Peninsula, address illegal fishing and make shipping safer by increasing protection for seafarers PROTECTING OUR ENVIRONMENT
Protect pristine areas like the Fitzroy Delta, Cape York Peninsula, address illegal fishing and make shipping safer by increasing protection for seafarers PROTECTING OUR ENVIRONMENT Whether it is our oceans, our native wildlife, or our native forests, we know that Australia has one of the most unique natural environments in the world, and we need to do all we can to protect it.
PROTECTING OUR ENVIRONMENT Whether it is our oceans, our native wildlife, or our native forests, we know that Australia has one of the most unique natural environments in the world, and we need to do all we can to protect it. Never before in history has our natural environment been threatened with such degradation from global warming, mining, logging, tree clearing and unsustainable land use.
Whether it is our oceans, our native wildlife, or our native forests, we know that Australia has one of the most unique natural environments in the world, and we need to do all we can to protect it. Never before in history has our natural environment been threatened with such degradation from global warming, mining, logging, tree clearing and unsustainable land use. Iconic ecosystems like the Great Australian Bight are under threat from exploration by oil and gas companies.
Never before in history has our natural environment been threatened with such degradation from global warming, mining, logging, tree clearing and unsustainable land use. Iconic ecosystems like the Great Australian Bight are under threat from exploration by oil and gas companies. Our oceans are being impacted by global warming, overfishing, marine pollution and debris, commercial shipping and offshore oil and gas exploration & production.
Iconic ecosystems like the Great Australian Bight are under threat from exploration by oil and gas companies. Our oceans are being impacted by global warming, overfishing, marine pollution and debris, commercial shipping and offshore oil and gas exploration & production. Critically endangered species like the Leadbeater’s Possum are at grave risk of extinction because of native forest logging.
Our oceans are being impacted by global warming, overfishing, marine pollution and debris, commercial shipping and offshore oil and gas exploration & production. Critically endangered species like the Leadbeater’s Possum are at grave risk of extinction because of native forest logging. To avoid losing our precious places and species forever, Australia must support those initiatives and programs that are working hard to protectour environment.
Critically endangered species like the Leadbeater’s Possum are at grave risk of extinction because of native forest logging. To avoid losing our precious places and species forever, Australia must support those initiatives and programs that are working hard to protectour environment. The Greens plan to protect our environment includes a commitment to: Re-establish the Biodiversity Fund to expand our protected areas, stop the loss of native wildlife, and better manage our established national parks, forests and reserves
To avoid losing our precious places and species forever, Australia must support those initiatives and programs that are working hard to protectour environment. The Greens plan to protect our environment includes a commitment to: Re-establish the Biodiversity Fund to expand our protected areas, stop the loss of native wildlife, and better manage our established national parks, forests and reserves Protect our unique native wildlife by investing in a Threatened Species Plan to map and protect critical habitat and to fund existing, unfunded recovery plans
The Greens plan to protect our environment includes a commitment to: Re-establish the Biodiversity Fund to expand our protected areas, stop the loss of native wildlife, and better manage our established national parks, forests and reserves Protect our unique native wildlife by investing in a Threatened Species Plan to map and protect critical habitat and to fund existing, unfunded recovery plans Double the funding for the Indigenous Rangers program, which delivers significant benefits for people, country and the economy
Protect our unique native wildlife by investing in a Threatened Species Plan to map and protect critical habitat and to fund existing, unfunded recovery plans Double the funding for the Indigenous Rangers program, which delivers significant benefits for people, country and the economy Protect and plan a sustainable future for Australia’s forests, including the immediate end to logging in high conservation value forests and a rapid planned transition out of native forest logging
Double the funding for the Indigenous Rangers program, which delivers significant benefits for people, country and the economy Protect and plan a sustainable future for Australia’s forests, including the immediate end to logging in high conservation value forests and a rapid planned transition out of native forest logging Protect marine ecosystems by immediately activating our marine reserves, suspended by the Abbott-Turnbull Government
Protect and plan a sustainable future for Australia’s forests, including the immediate end to logging in high conservation value forests and a rapid planned transition out of native forest logging Protect marine ecosystems by immediately activating our marine reserves, suspended by the Abbott-Turnbull Government Stop oil and gas exploration in the Great Australia Bight
Protect marine ecosystems by immediately activating our marine reserves, suspended by the Abbott-Turnbull Government Stop oil and gas exploration in the Great Australia Bight STRONG ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS
Stop oil and gas exploration in the Great Australia Bight STRONG ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS The major indicators of the health of our natural world, including nativewildlife, invasive pests and weeds, soil health and protection of freshwater are all worse than they were three decades ago when our national environment laws began.
STRONG ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS The major indicators of the health of our natural world, including nativewildlife, invasive pests and weeds, soil health and protection of freshwater are all worse than they were three decades ago when our national environment laws began. Australia’s precious places are under threat from mining, logging,development, invasive species and the impacts of global warming.
The major indicators of the health of our natural world, including nativewildlife, invasive pests and weeds, soil health and protection of freshwater are all worse than they were three decades ago when our national environment laws began. Australia’s precious places are under threat from mining, logging,development, invasive species and the impacts of global warming. Our national environment laws and agencies are meant to protect the places and wildlife which are so important, so fragile, and which mattered to all Australians.
Australia’s precious places are under threat from mining, logging,development, invasive species and the impacts of global warming. Our national environment laws and agencies are meant to protect the places and wildlife which are so important, so fragile, and which mattered to all Australians. The last 15 years has shown that they have failed.
Our national environment laws and agencies are meant to protect the places and wildlife which are so important, so fragile, and which mattered to all Australians. The last 15 years has shown that they have failed. Thousands of damaging developments have gone ahead and many more of our iconic and important animals and plants are in danger of becoming extinct.
The last 15 years has shown that they have failed. Thousands of damaging developments have gone ahead and many more of our iconic and important animals and plants are in danger of becoming extinct. Global warming is further increasing the pressure on our fragile environment.
Thousands of damaging developments have gone ahead and many more of our iconic and important animals and plants are in danger of becoming extinct. Global warming is further increasing the pressure on our fragile environment. Our current national laws have failed to protect our precious placesand stop our wildlife heading towards extinction.
Global warming is further increasing the pressure on our fragile environment. Our current national laws have failed to protect our precious placesand stop our wildlife heading towards extinction. To protect our precious places, we need environment laws that will stop the biodiversity crisis, save our threatened species, and protect our precious places.
Our current national laws have failed to protect our precious placesand stop our wildlife heading towards extinction. To protect our precious places, we need environment laws that will stop the biodiversity crisis, save our threatened species, and protect our precious places. We can protect what we love about Australia, now and into the future.
To protect our precious places, we need environment laws that will stop the biodiversity crisis, save our threatened species, and protect our precious places. We can protect what we love about Australia, now and into the future. The Greens have a plan for strong environmental laws, including acommitment to: Establish an independent watchdog, the National Environment Protection Authority (NEPA), which will enforce our environmental laws and provide independent advice free from the influence of politicians and the big business lobby
We can protect what we love about Australia, now and into the future. The Greens have a plan for strong environmental laws, including acommitment to: Establish an independent watchdog, the National Environment Protection Authority (NEPA), which will enforce our environmental laws and provide independent advice free from the influence of politicians and the big business lobby Create a new Environment Act as the next generation of strong national environment laws, expanding federal protection and putting tough limits on development to protect nature
The Greens have a plan for strong environmental laws, including acommitment to: Establish an independent watchdog, the National Environment Protection Authority (NEPA), which will enforce our environmental laws and provide independent advice free from the influence of politicians and the big business lobby Create a new Environment Act as the next generation of strong national environment laws, expanding federal protection and putting tough limits on development to protect nature Give Australians the environmental democracy they deserve by improving community rights and access to justice
Create a new Environment Act as the next generation of strong national environment laws, expanding federal protection and putting tough limits on development to protect nature Give Australians the environmental democracy they deserve by improving community rights and access to justice RENEWED DEMOCRACY
Give Australians the environmental democracy they deserve by improving community rights and access to justice RENEWED DEMOCRACY Renewing our democracy is vital to ensure that we all have a say in the decisions shaping our future and that our representatives are accountable to us.
RENEWED DEMOCRACY Renewing our democracy is vital to ensure that we all have a say in the decisions shaping our future and that our representatives are accountable to us. For too long, wealthy individuals and corporations have wielded too much power.
Renewing our democracy is vital to ensure that we all have a say in the decisions shaping our future and that our representatives are accountable to us. For too long, wealthy individuals and corporations have wielded too much power. We see it in the lobbyists that prowl the halls of Parliament House, in the mega donations made to political parties by fossil fuel companies,and the lack of transparency around political corruption.
For too long, wealthy individuals and corporations have wielded too much power. We see it in the lobbyists that prowl the halls of Parliament House, in the mega donations made to political parties by fossil fuel companies,and the lack of transparency around political corruption. Australians are over it.
We see it in the lobbyists that prowl the halls of Parliament House, in the mega donations made to political parties by fossil fuel companies,and the lack of transparency around political corruption. Australians are over it. When wealth and power are concentrated in a few hands, democracy cannot flourish.
Australians are over it. When wealth and power are concentrated in a few hands, democracy cannot flourish. We need to break this model of business and politics as usual and take the power back.
When wealth and power are concentrated in a few hands, democracy cannot flourish. We need to break this model of business and politics as usual and take the power back. A strong, truly representative and participatory democracy delivering for the people is our only hope.
We need to break this model of business and politics as usual and take the power back. A strong, truly representative and participatory democracy delivering for the people is our only hope. This means creating opportunities for all Australians to be more engaged and empowered by our democratic processes.
A strong, truly representative and participatory democracy delivering for the people is our only hope. This means creating opportunities for all Australians to be more engaged and empowered by our democratic processes. We have a great opportunity with a new and reformed Senate electoral system that puts votes and power back into the hands of the voters.
This means creating opportunities for all Australians to be more engaged and empowered by our democratic processes. We have a great opportunity with a new and reformed Senate electoral system that puts votes and power back into the hands of the voters. But the Greens know we need to take this reform further, renewing our democracy with greater transparency, accountability and participation.
We have a great opportunity with a new and reformed Senate electoral system that puts votes and power back into the hands of the voters. But the Greens know we need to take this reform further, renewing our democracy with greater transparency, accountability and participation. The Greens have a plan to renew our democracy which includesa commitment to: Clean up politics at the federal level through a national anti-corruptionwatchdog
But the Greens know we need to take this reform further, renewing our democracy with greater transparency, accountability and participation. The Greens have a plan to renew our democracy which includesa commitment to: Clean up politics at the federal level through a national anti-corruptionwatchdog Fix our political donations laws with greater transparency measures and bans on donations from industries that have an unsavoury track record in influencing decision makers
The Greens have a plan to renew our democracy which includesa commitment to: Clean up politics at the federal level through a national anti-corruptionwatchdog Fix our political donations laws with greater transparency measures and bans on donations from industries that have an unsavoury track record in influencing decision makers Give all Australians the power to participate by using digital technologyto open up new opportunities for engaging with the democratic process
Fix our political donations laws with greater transparency measures and bans on donations from industries that have an unsavoury track record in influencing decision makers Give all Australians the power to participate by using digital technologyto open up new opportunities for engaging with the democratic process Put the freedom back into our Freedom of Information laws
Give all Australians the power to participate by using digital technologyto open up new opportunities for engaging with the democratic process Put the freedom back into our Freedom of Information laws NATIONAL ANTI-CORRUPTION COMMISSION
Put the freedom back into our Freedom of Information laws NATIONAL ANTI-CORRUPTION COMMISSION Anti-corruption commissions at the state level have revealed now infamous instances of corruption, illegal donations and undue influence of the corporate sector in Australian politics.
NATIONAL ANTI-CORRUPTION COMMISSION Anti-corruption commissions at the state level have revealed now infamous instances of corruption, illegal donations and undue influence of the corporate sector in Australian politics. We know this systemic corruption does not stop at state borders, and yet there is still no anti-corruption commission at the federal level.
Anti-corruption commissions at the state level have revealed now infamous instances of corruption, illegal donations and undue influence of the corporate sector in Australian politics. We know this systemic corruption does not stop at state borders, and yet there is still no anti-corruption commission at the federal level. Every state government jurisdiction in Australia now has some kind of anticorruption commission – the Federal level of government should not be an exception.
We know this systemic corruption does not stop at state borders, and yet there is still no anti-corruption commission at the federal level. Every state government jurisdiction in Australia now has some kind of anticorruption commission – the Federal level of government should not be an exception. And most Australians agree, with successive polls showingoverwhelming support for a national anti-corruption watchdog.
Every state government jurisdiction in Australia now has some kind of anticorruption commission – the Federal level of government should not be an exception. And most Australians agree, with successive polls showingoverwhelming support for a national anti-corruption watchdog. That’s why we urgently need a National Anti-Corruption Commission to oversee anti-corruption measures at a federal level, and to close the revolving door between business and politics.
And most Australians agree, with successive polls showingoverwhelming support for a national anti-corruption watchdog. That’s why we urgently need a National Anti-Corruption Commission to oversee anti-corruption measures at a federal level, and to close the revolving door between business and politics. The Greens have introduced our National Integrity Commission Bill into successive parliaments.
That’s why we urgently need a National Anti-Corruption Commission to oversee anti-corruption measures at a federal level, and to close the revolving door between business and politics. The Greens have introduced our National Integrity Commission Bill into successive parliaments. More recent travel entitlement scandals have made action more urgent.
The Greens have introduced our National Integrity Commission Bill into successive parliaments. More recent travel entitlement scandals have made action more urgent. It’s beyond time for the other parties to get behind this and restore public confidence in the political system
More recent travel entitlement scandals have made action more urgent. It’s beyond time for the other parties to get behind this and restore public confidence in the political system We know the vast majority of Australians want a federal corruption watchdog, with more than 80 per cent of ABC Vote Compass respondents supporting the plan.
It’s beyond time for the other parties to get behind this and restore public confidence in the political system We know the vast majority of Australians want a federal corruption watchdog, with more than 80 per cent of ABC Vote Compass respondents supporting the plan. Reintroducing our plan for a National Anti-Corruption Commission will be a top priority for the Greens in the next parliament.
We know the vast majority of Australians want a federal corruption watchdog, with more than 80 per cent of ABC Vote Compass respondents supporting the plan. Reintroducing our plan for a National Anti-Corruption Commission will be a top priority for the Greens in the next parliament. The Greens’ plan for holding public officials and politicians to accountincludes a commitment to: Establish an independent National Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate and prosecute misconduct at the federal level, including politicians, department, agencies and staff
Reintroducing our plan for a National Anti-Corruption Commission will be a top priority for the Greens in the next parliament. The Greens’ plan for holding public officials and politicians to accountincludes a commitment to: Establish an independent National Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate and prosecute misconduct at the federal level, including politicians, department, agencies and staff Include a Law Enforcement Integrity Commissioner to address corruption in the Australian Federal Police and Australian Crime Commission
The Greens’ plan for holding public officials and politicians to accountincludes a commitment to: Establish an independent National Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate and prosecute misconduct at the federal level, including politicians, department, agencies and staff Include a Law Enforcement Integrity Commissioner to address corruption in the Australian Federal Police and Australian Crime Commission Include an Independent Parliamentary Adviser to give confidential advice to ministers, parliamentarians and former parliamentarians in relation to conflict of interest, entitlements claims and other matters
Include a Law Enforcement Integrity Commissioner to address corruption in the Australian Federal Police and Australian Crime Commission Include an Independent Parliamentary Adviser to give confidential advice to ministers, parliamentarians and former parliamentarians in relation to conflict of interest, entitlements claims and other matters CLEANING UP POLITICAL DONATIONS
Include an Independent Parliamentary Adviser to give confidential advice to ministers, parliamentarians and former parliamentarians in relation to conflict of interest, entitlements claims and other matters CLEANING UP POLITICAL DONATIONS Parliament should serve the best interests of all Australians.
CLEANING UP POLITICAL DONATIONS Parliament should serve the best interests of all Australians. Those with money and wealth shouldn’t be able to buy political influence on issues that matter most, like global warming.
Parliament should serve the best interests of all Australians. Those with money and wealth shouldn’t be able to buy political influence on issues that matter most, like global warming. |The laws on political donations need to be cleaned up, just like the old polluting industries that exploit them.
Those with money and wealth shouldn’t be able to buy political influence on issues that matter most, like global warming. |The laws on political donations need to be cleaned up, just like the old polluting industries that exploit them. Over the last 3 years, the old parties have accepted almost $3.7 million from fossil fuel companies.
|The laws on political donations need to be cleaned up, just like the old polluting industries that exploit them. Over the last 3 years, the old parties have accepted almost $3.7 million from fossil fuel companies. This money buys influence that clouds politicians’ judgment when debating crucial issues like our sustainable energy future.
Over the last 3 years, the old parties have accepted almost $3.7 million from fossil fuel companies. This money buys influence that clouds politicians’ judgment when debating crucial issues like our sustainable energy future. Little progress has been made over the years in federal politics to reduce the influence of donations over the political process, especiallycompared with the states.
This money buys influence that clouds politicians’ judgment when debating crucial issues like our sustainable energy future. Little progress has been made over the years in federal politics to reduce the influence of donations over the political process, especiallycompared with the states. There are no limits on expenditure or on who can donate to parties, and transparency is seriously lacking.
Little progress has been made over the years in federal politics to reduce the influence of donations over the political process, especiallycompared with the states. There are no limits on expenditure or on who can donate to parties, and transparency is seriously lacking. The Greens have a plan to clean up the corrupting influence of political donations in Australia, through a combination of greater transparency measures and bans on donations from industries that have an unsavoury track record in influencing decision makers.
There are no limits on expenditure or on who can donate to parties, and transparency is seriously lacking. The Greens have a plan to clean up the corrupting influence of political donations in Australia, through a combination of greater transparency measures and bans on donations from industries that have an unsavoury track record in influencing decision makers. The Greens plan to clean up political donations includes a commitment to: Ban donations from the fossil fuel industry, as well as property developers and the tobacco, liquor and gambling industries
The Greens have a plan to clean up the corrupting influence of political donations in Australia, through a combination of greater transparency measures and bans on donations from industries that have an unsavoury track record in influencing decision makers. The Greens plan to clean up political donations includes a commitment to: Ban donations from the fossil fuel industry, as well as property developers and the tobacco, liquor and gambling industries Introduce political donations reform, including a ban on all foreign political donations and anonymous donations over $50
The Greens plan to clean up political donations includes a commitment to: Ban donations from the fossil fuel industry, as well as property developers and the tobacco, liquor and gambling industries Introduce political donations reform, including a ban on all foreign political donations and anonymous donations over $50 Cap election campaign expenditure by parties, candidates and third parties
Introduce political donations reform, including a ban on all foreign political donations and anonymous donations over $50 Cap election campaign expenditure by parties, candidates and third parties Enhance disclosure and transparency by lowering the disclosure threshold to $1000, and adopt mandatory, real-time reporting ofdonations by political parties
Cap election campaign expenditure by parties, candidates and third parties Enhance disclosure and transparency by lowering the disclosure threshold to $1000, and adopt mandatory, real-time reporting ofdonations by political parties Better resource the Australian Electoral Commission to enforce full disclosure and investigate discrepancies
Enhance disclosure and transparency by lowering the disclosure threshold to $1000, and adopt mandatory, real-time reporting ofdonations by political parties Better resource the Australian Electoral Commission to enforce full disclosure and investigate discrepancies PARLIAMENT BY THE PEOPLE
Better resource the Australian Electoral Commission to enforce full disclosure and investigate discrepancies PARLIAMENT BY THE PEOPLE When wealth and power are concentrated in a few hands, democracy cannot flourish.
PARLIAMENT BY THE PEOPLE When wealth and power are concentrated in a few hands, democracy cannot flourish. When we’re seeing our politics increasingly captured by vested interests, it’s critical that we reclaim space for Australians to directly participate in their democracy.
When wealth and power are concentrated in a few hands, democracy cannot flourish. When we’re seeing our politics increasingly captured by vested interests, it’s critical that we reclaim space for Australians to directly participate in their democracy. Technology can distribute power throughout our communities and enhance the democratic process.
When we’re seeing our politics increasingly captured by vested interests, it’s critical that we reclaim space for Australians to directly participate in their democracy. Technology can distribute power throughout our communities and enhance the democratic process. The more people participate, the healthier our democracy
Technology can distribute power throughout our communities and enhance the democratic process. The more people participate, the healthier our democracy Technology has made it easy for ideas to be widely circulatedand debated, and for support and interest to be gauged.
The more people participate, the healthier our democracy Technology has made it easy for ideas to be widely circulatedand debated, and for support and interest to be gauged. The ability to directly influence legislation and debate will strengthenparticipation in the political process, and increase legitimacy of our parliament.
Technology has made it easy for ideas to be widely circulatedand debated, and for support and interest to be gauged. The ability to directly influence legislation and debate will strengthenparticipation in the political process, and increase legitimacy of our parliament. By giving Australians easier avenues to engage with political issues and their representatives, we can enhance transparency and accountabilityacross a range of areas, including our federal budget, foreign affairs, and human rights.
The ability to directly influence legislation and debate will strengthenparticipation in the political process, and increase legitimacy of our parliament. By giving Australians easier avenues to engage with political issues and their representatives, we can enhance transparency and accountabilityacross a range of areas, including our federal budget, foreign affairs, and human rights. The Greens plan to increase participation in democracy through technology includes a commitment to: use interactive technology to facilitate public participation in annual government budget-setting to determine priorities for new infrastructure and services and revenue-raising measures.
By giving Australians easier avenues to engage with political issues and their representatives, we can enhance transparency and accountabilityacross a range of areas, including our federal budget, foreign affairs, and human rights. The Greens plan to increase participation in democracy through technology includes a commitment to: use interactive technology to facilitate public participation in annual government budget-setting to determine priorities for new infrastructure and services and revenue-raising measures. Strengthen links between the community and the parliament through the Australian Citizens’ Initiative to make sure the issues the community cares about are debated in our parliament
The Greens plan to increase participation in democracy through technology includes a commitment to: use interactive technology to facilitate public participation in annual government budget-setting to determine priorities for new infrastructure and services and revenue-raising measures. Strengthen links between the community and the parliament through the Australian Citizens’ Initiative to make sure the issues the community cares about are debated in our parliament Put freedom back into FOI by requiring all government departments to proactively release information in an easily searchable format
Strengthen links between the community and the parliament through the Australian Citizens’ Initiative to make sure the issues the community cares about are debated in our parliament Put freedom back into FOI by requiring all government departments to proactively release information in an easily searchable format Enhance legitimacy of a new human rights bill by enabling all Australians to contribute to its contents
Put freedom back into FOI by requiring all government departments to proactively release information in an easily searchable format Enhance legitimacy of a new human rights bill by enabling all Australians to contribute to its contents DEMOCRACY FOR THE NEXT GENERATION
Enhance legitimacy of a new human rights bill by enabling all Australians to contribute to its contents DEMOCRACY FOR THE NEXT GENERATION Deliberative and participatory democracy technology has alreadybeen proven successful around the world, including at the localgovernment level in Australia.
DEMOCRACY FOR THE NEXT GENERATION Deliberative and participatory democracy technology has alreadybeen proven successful around the world, including at the localgovernment level in Australia. These tools enable voters to prioritise the things they care about, and enable our representatives to be responsive to the views of their communities.
Deliberative and participatory democracy technology has alreadybeen proven successful around the world, including at the localgovernment level in Australia. These tools enable voters to prioritise the things they care about, and enable our representatives to be responsive to the views of their communities. EQUALITY AND COMPASSION
These tools enable voters to prioritise the things they care about, and enable our representatives to be responsive to the views of their communities. EQUALITY AND COMPASSION As a prosperous nation, Australia can ensure that all people are treated fairly, are treated with compassion and can access world-class public health care, education and services.
EQUALITY AND COMPASSION As a prosperous nation, Australia can ensure that all people are treated fairly, are treated with compassion and can access world-class public health care, education and services. But there remain those in our community who struggle to accessservices, who aren’t able to enjoy the full rights to which they are entitled, and who are being prevented from fully participating in our society.
As a prosperous nation, Australia can ensure that all people are treated fairly, are treated with compassion and can access world-class public health care, education and services. But there remain those in our community who struggle to accessservices, who aren’t able to enjoy the full rights to which they are entitled, and who are being prevented from fully participating in our society. We want a stronger, fairer Australia in which people have adequate income support, and a strong social safety net that they can rely onin times of need.
But there remain those in our community who struggle to accessservices, who aren’t able to enjoy the full rights to which they are entitled, and who are being prevented from fully participating in our society. We want a stronger, fairer Australia in which people have adequate income support, and a strong social safety net that they can rely onin times of need. We want to ensure that all Australians have access to safe and affordable housing, and well funded, world-class hospitals and health care.
We want a stronger, fairer Australia in which people have adequate income support, and a strong social safety net that they can rely onin times of need. We want to ensure that all Australians have access to safe and affordable housing, and well funded, world-class hospitals and health care. We want to make sure that all Australians – including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disabilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities and the LGBTI community – have access to all the rights and services that they need.
We want to ensure that all Australians have access to safe and affordable housing, and well funded, world-class hospitals and health care. We want to make sure that all Australians – including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disabilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities and the LGBTI community – have access to all the rights and services that they need. We want to make sure that Australian law protects animals from cruelty.
We want to make sure that all Australians – including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disabilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities and the LGBTI community – have access to all the rights and services that they need. We want to make sure that Australian law protects animals from cruelty. The Greens have a plan for an equaland compassionate Australia which includes a commitment to:Tackle inequality and create a social safety net for the 21st Century
We want to make sure that Australian law protects animals from cruelty. The Greens have a plan for an equaland compassionate Australia which includes a commitment to:Tackle inequality and create a social safety net for the 21st Century End the housing affordability crisis through assistance for homelessnessservices, renewing public and community housing, and tackling the cost of housing by removing unfair tax concessions like negative gearing
The Greens have a plan for an equaland compassionate Australia which includes a commitment to:Tackle inequality and create a social safety net for the 21st Century End the housing affordability crisis through assistance for homelessnessservices, renewing public and community housing, and tackling the cost of housing by removing unfair tax concessions like negative gearing Invest in a healthier Australia by properly funding hospitals and betterhealth care
End the housing affordability crisis through assistance for homelessnessservices, renewing public and community housing, and tackling the cost of housing by removing unfair tax concessions like negative gearing Invest in a healthier Australia by properly funding hospitals and betterhealth care Ensure equality for women through confronting our domestic violencecrisis, paid parental leave and safe access to abortion
Invest in a healthier Australia by properly funding hospitals and betterhealth care Ensure equality for women through confronting our domestic violencecrisis, paid parental leave and safe access to abortion Empower and invest in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, to create community driven solutions
Ensure equality for women through confronting our domestic violencecrisis, paid parental leave and safe access to abortion Empower and invest in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, to create community driven solutions Ensure a right to independence, selfdetermination and full participationfor people with a disability, including making the NDIS the best it can be
Empower and invest in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, to create community driven solutions Ensure a right to independence, selfdetermination and full participationfor people with a disability, including making the NDIS the best it can be End discrimination of LGBTIQ couples by legislating for marriage equality
Ensure a right to independence, selfdetermination and full participationfor people with a disability, including making the NDIS the best it can be End discrimination of LGBTIQ couples by legislating for marriage equality Promote animal welfare and end the cruelty of live animal exports
End discrimination of LGBTIQ couples by legislating for marriage equality Promote animal welfare and end the cruelty of live animal exports STRENGTHENING OUR SOCIAL SAFETY NET
Promote animal welfare and end the cruelty of live animal exports STRENGTHENING OUR SOCIAL SAFETY NET A strong social security safety net is the foundation of a more inclusive and productive society.
STRENGTHENING OUR SOCIAL SAFETY NET A strong social security safety net is the foundation of a more inclusive and productive society. No-one in a country as rich in Australia should be living in poverty.
A strong social security safety net is the foundation of a more inclusive and productive society. No-one in a country as rich in Australia should be living in poverty. Australia has had decades of economic growth, but the benefits haven’t been equally shared.
No-one in a country as rich in Australia should be living in poverty. Australia has had decades of economic growth, but the benefits haven’t been equally shared. As our economy has grown, so has inequality.
Australia has had decades of economic growth, but the benefits haven’t been equally shared. As our economy has grown, so has inequality. Inequality in Australia is higher than the OECD average, and a person in the top 20 per cent has around five times as much income as someone in the bottom.
As our economy has grown, so has inequality. Inequality in Australia is higher than the OECD average, and a person in the top 20 per cent has around five times as much income as someone in the bottom. Wealth is even more unevenly distributed.
Inequality in Australia is higher than the OECD average, and a person in the top 20 per cent has around five times as much income as someone in the bottom. Wealth is even more unevenly distributed. People in the top 20 per cent have around 70 times more wealth than a person in the bottom 20 per cent.
Wealth is even more unevenly distributed. People in the top 20 per cent have around 70 times more wealth than a person in the bottom 20 per cent. Poverty and inequality have devastating impacts on life outcomes, undermining health and educational opportunities, access to safe and appropriate housing, transport, employment and childcare, and many other aspects of full participation in society.
People in the top 20 per cent have around 70 times more wealth than a person in the bottom 20 per cent. Poverty and inequality have devastating impacts on life outcomes, undermining health and educational opportunities, access to safe and appropriate housing, transport, employment and childcare, and many other aspects of full participation in society. The Greens have a comprehensive plan to tackle inequality in Australia which includes a commitment to: lift key payments including Newstart, provide single parents with more support, and reverse Coalition cuts to income support.
Poverty and inequality have devastating impacts on life outcomes, undermining health and educational opportunities, access to safe and appropriate housing, transport, employment and childcare, and many other aspects of full participation in society. The Greens have a comprehensive plan to tackle inequality in Australia which includes a commitment to: lift key payments including Newstart, provide single parents with more support, and reverse Coalition cuts to income support. Develop a national anti-poverty plan to provide a coordinated, cross-government approach to tackling poverty
The Greens have a comprehensive plan to tackle inequality in Australia which includes a commitment to: lift key payments including Newstart, provide single parents with more support, and reverse Coalition cuts to income support. Develop a national anti-poverty plan to provide a coordinated, cross-government approach to tackling poverty Guarantee access to social services, prioritising areas of greatest need
Develop a national anti-poverty plan to provide a coordinated, cross-government approach to tackling poverty Guarantee access to social services, prioritising areas of greatest need Establish an Equality Commission, to provide advice to Government and Parliament on our income support system and progress on reducing inequality.
Guarantee access to social services, prioritising areas of greatest need Establish an Equality Commission, to provide advice to Government and Parliament on our income support system and progress on reducing inequality. Poverty is a daily challenge for many Australians, holding them back from leading productive and meaningful lives.
Establish an Equality Commission, to provide advice to Government and Parliament on our income support system and progress on reducing inequality. Poverty is a daily challenge for many Australians, holding them back from leading productive and meaningful lives. THE AUSTRALIAN COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICES ESTIMATES THAT AFTER HOUSING COSTS, 13.9 % OF AUSTRALIANS, OR 2.55 MILLION PEOPLE, ARE LIVING BELOW THE POVERTY LINE.
Poverty is a daily challenge for many Australians, holding them back from leading productive and meaningful lives. THE AUSTRALIAN COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICES ESTIMATES THAT AFTER HOUSING COSTS, 13.9 % OF AUSTRALIANS, OR 2.55 MILLION PEOPLE, ARE LIVING BELOW THE POVERTY LINE. THAT INCLUDES 603,000 CHILDREN AND 40 PER CENT OF PEOPLE RELYING ON INCOME SUPPORT.
THE AUSTRALIAN COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SERVICES ESTIMATES THAT AFTER HOUSING COSTS, 13.9 % OF AUSTRALIANS, OR 2.55 MILLION PEOPLE, ARE LIVING BELOW THE POVERTY LINE. THAT INCLUDES 603,000 CHILDREN AND 40 PER CENT OF PEOPLE RELYING ON INCOME SUPPORT. ENDING THE HOUSING AFFORDABILITY CRISIS
THAT INCLUDES 603,000 CHILDREN AND 40 PER CENT OF PEOPLE RELYING ON INCOME SUPPORT. ENDING THE HOUSING AFFORDABILITY CRISIS Australia can be a great place to live, but the cost of buying or renting a home has become extreme.
ENDING THE HOUSING AFFORDABILITY CRISIS Australia can be a great place to live, but the cost of buying or renting a home has become extreme. It has become far too hard for first home buyers and renters to find quality housing near where they work, play and take their kids to school.
Australia can be a great place to live, but the cost of buying or renting a home has become extreme. It has become far too hard for first home buyers and renters to find quality housing near where they work, play and take their kids to school. This means long commutes, less time and higher transport costs.
It has become far too hard for first home buyers and renters to find quality housing near where they work, play and take their kids to school. This means long commutes, less time and higher transport costs. Australia’s chronic undersupply of affordable housing is at a crisis point.
This means long commutes, less time and higher transport costs. Australia’s chronic undersupply of affordable housing is at a crisis point. Years of underinvestment in affordable housing supply has been accompanied by decades of generous subsidies to property investors and speculators which has driven prices up as investors outcompete first home buyers.
Australia’s chronic undersupply of affordable housing is at a crisis point. Years of underinvestment in affordable housing supply has been accompanied by decades of generous subsidies to property investors and speculators which has driven prices up as investors outcompete first home buyers. Our housing market is now one of the most unaffordable in the world.
Years of underinvestment in affordable housing supply has been accompanied by decades of generous subsidies to property investors and speculators which has driven prices up as investors outcompete first home buyers. Our housing market is now one of the most unaffordable in the world. In addition, every night, 105,000 Australians don’t have a place to call home.
Our housing market is now one of the most unaffordable in the world. In addition, every night, 105,000 Australians don’t have a place to call home. That’s one in every two hundred people – up 17 per cent since 2006.
In addition, every night, 105,000 Australians don’t have a place to call home. That’s one in every two hundred people – up 17 per cent since 2006. It’s only going to get worse if we don’t change our system.
That’s one in every two hundred people – up 17 per cent since 2006. It’s only going to get worse if we don’t change our system. The Greens’ plan to tackle our affordability crisis head on includes a commitment to: Reform negative gearing for future investments to stop billions of dollars each year being used to unfairly subsidise property investors at the expense of housing affordability
It’s only going to get worse if we don’t change our system. The Greens’ plan to tackle our affordability crisis head on includes a commitment to: Reform negative gearing for future investments to stop billions of dollars each year being used to unfairly subsidise property investors at the expense of housing affordability Remove the Capital Gains Tax Discount to rebalance the structural unfairness in the tax system
The Greens’ plan to tackle our affordability crisis head on includes a commitment to: Reform negative gearing for future investments to stop billions of dollars each year being used to unfairly subsidise property investors at the expense of housing affordability Remove the Capital Gains Tax Discount to rebalance the structural unfairness in the tax system Double federal funding for homelessness services and sign a new ten-year National Partnership Agreement on Homelessness to provide ongoing security for this vital sector
Remove the Capital Gains Tax Discount to rebalance the structural unfairness in the tax system Double federal funding for homelessness services and sign a new ten-year National Partnership Agreement on Homelessness to provide ongoing security for this vital sector Increase Commonwealth Rent assistance by 30% to help more than one million Australians struggling with rental stress
Double federal funding for homelessness services and sign a new ten-year National Partnership Agreement on Homelessness to provide ongoing security for this vital sector Increase Commonwealth Rent assistance by 30% to help more than one million Australians struggling with rental stress Install rooftop solar and retrofit Australia’s entire public and community housing stock by 2030 to lower the cost of living and improve quality of life for low-income Australians
Increase Commonwealth Rent assistance by 30% to help more than one million Australians struggling with rental stress Install rooftop solar and retrofit Australia’s entire public and community housing stock by 2030 to lower the cost of living and improve quality of life for low-income Australians More than a quarter are children under 18, most of them are fleeing family breakdowns or domestic violence
Install rooftop solar and retrofit Australia’s entire public and community housing stock by 2030 to lower the cost of living and improve quality of life for low-income Australians More than a quarter are children under 18, most of them are fleeing family breakdowns or domestic violence More than 300 people a day are turned away from homelessness services
More than a quarter are children under 18, most of them are fleeing family breakdowns or domestic violence More than 300 people a day are turned away from homelessness services Nationally, less than 1% of private rental properties are affordable to low income households
More than 300 people a day are turned away from homelessness services Nationally, less than 1% of private rental properties are affordable to low income households The Abbott - Turnbull Government cut almost $600m from homelessness and housing affordability programs
Nationally, less than 1% of private rental properties are affordable to low income households The Abbott - Turnbull Government cut almost $600m from homelessness and housing affordability programs INVESTING IN OUR HEALTH
The Abbott - Turnbull Government cut almost $600m from homelessness and housing affordability programs INVESTING IN OUR HEALTH Every Australian deserves good healthcare.
INVESTING IN OUR HEALTH Every Australian deserves good healthcare. Where you live, or how much money you earn, shouldn’t decide howwell you get looked after when you are sick.
Every Australian deserves good healthcare. Where you live, or how much money you earn, shouldn’t decide howwell you get looked after when you are sick. The Greens have worked hard to protect Medicare from Government cuts, have championed Denticare, and led calls for extra investment in mental health services – especially in regional areas.
Where you live, or how much money you earn, shouldn’t decide howwell you get looked after when you are sick. The Greens have worked hard to protect Medicare from Government cuts, have championed Denticare, and led calls for extra investment in mental health services – especially in regional areas. The Greens see health as an investment, not a cost.
The Greens have worked hard to protect Medicare from Government cuts, have championed Denticare, and led calls for extra investment in mental health services – especially in regional areas. The Greens see health as an investment, not a cost. Ensuring that our health system will always be accessible, affordable and universal is our priority.
The Greens see health as an investment, not a cost. Ensuring that our health system will always be accessible, affordable and universal is our priority. The Abbott/Turnbull Government has taken Australia’s hospitals to the edge of a funding cliff that will decimate the health system and leave patients out in the cold.
Ensuring that our health system will always be accessible, affordable and universal is our priority. The Abbott/Turnbull Government has taken Australia’s hospitals to the edge of a funding cliff that will decimate the health system and leave patients out in the cold. Our primary care system is not currently meeting the needs of the one in five Australians living with multiple chronic diseases.
The Abbott/Turnbull Government has taken Australia’s hospitals to the edge of a funding cliff that will decimate the health system and leave patients out in the cold. Our primary care system is not currently meeting the needs of the one in five Australians living with multiple chronic diseases. Our palliative care systems are under-resourced.
Our primary care system is not currently meeting the needs of the one in five Australians living with multiple chronic diseases. Our palliative care systems are under-resourced. Millions of Australians put off essential dental care because they can’t afford it, leading to serious health problems.
Our palliative care systems are under-resourced. Millions of Australians put off essential dental care because they can’t afford it, leading to serious health problems. The Greens’ affordable plan to give more Australians access to the healthcare they need includes a commitment to:Restore the funding model where the Commonwealth and the states share the rising costs in delivering hospital services evenly
Millions of Australians put off essential dental care because they can’t afford it, leading to serious health problems. The Greens’ affordable plan to give more Australians access to the healthcare they need includes a commitment to:Restore the funding model where the Commonwealth and the states share the rising costs in delivering hospital services evenly Secure the funding formula for the long term by enshrining it into law, so that the states have some certainty, and so that future governments will require the Senate’s approval to reduce the Commonwealth’s share of hospital funding
The Greens’ affordable plan to give more Australians access to the healthcare they need includes a commitment to:Restore the funding model where the Commonwealth and the states share the rising costs in delivering hospital services evenly Secure the funding formula for the long term by enshrining it into law, so that the states have some certainty, and so that future governments will require the Senate’s approval to reduce the Commonwealth’s share of hospital funding Invest in primary care to ensure the effective management of chronic disease
Secure the funding formula for the long term by enshrining it into law, so that the states have some certainty, and so that future governments will require the Senate’s approval to reduce the Commonwealth’s share of hospital funding Invest in primary care to ensure the effective management of chronic disease Reinvest funding raised from abolition of the private health insurance rebate into public health and hospitals
Invest in primary care to ensure the effective management of chronic disease Reinvest funding raised from abolition of the private health insurance rebate into public health and hospitals Ensure publicly funded dental care through Denticare, to give more Australians access to their local dentist for the essential treatmentthey need
Reinvest funding raised from abolition of the private health insurance rebate into public health and hospitals Ensure publicly funded dental care through Denticare, to give more Australians access to their local dentist for the essential treatmentthey need Invest in mental health to ensure access to effective treatment across Australia
Ensure publicly funded dental care through Denticare, to give more Australians access to their local dentist for the essential treatmentthey need Invest in mental health to ensure access to effective treatment across Australia Invest in measures to close the gap in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health outcomes
Invest in mental health to ensure access to effective treatment across Australia Invest in measures to close the gap in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health outcomes Deliver a National Rural Health Plan to ensure your postcode no longer determines your health
Invest in measures to close the gap in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health outcomes Deliver a National Rural Health Plan to ensure your postcode no longer determines your health Tackle childhood obesity with a tax on sugary drinks
Deliver a National Rural Health Plan to ensure your postcode no longer determines your health Tackle childhood obesity with a tax on sugary drinks Invest in palliative care services, to improve quality of life of patients, carers and their families facing problems associated with life-threatening illness
Tackle childhood obesity with a tax on sugary drinks Invest in palliative care services, to improve quality of life of patients, carers and their families facing problems associated with life-threatening illness Promote harm reduction with a Harm Reduction Innovation Fund
Invest in palliative care services, to improve quality of life of patients, carers and their families facing problems associated with life-threatening illness Promote harm reduction with a Harm Reduction Innovation Fund Protect children from alcohol advertising with a ban during peak times
Promote harm reduction with a Harm Reduction Innovation Fund Protect children from alcohol advertising with a ban during peak times EQUALITY FOR WOMEN
Protect children from alcohol advertising with a ban during peak times EQUALITY FOR WOMEN Australian women have a right to equality in all aspects of life, andthis must be reflected in our laws and society.
EQUALITY FOR WOMEN Australian women have a right to equality in all aspects of life, andthis must be reflected in our laws and society. The Greens have a long and proud history of standing up for women’s rights and full equality, and are committed to doing all we can to fight gender discrimination.
Australian women have a right to equality in all aspects of life, andthis must be reflected in our laws and society. The Greens have a long and proud history of standing up for women’s rights and full equality, and are committed to doing all we can to fight gender discrimination. Women in Australia face many challenges.
The Greens have a long and proud history of standing up for women’s rights and full equality, and are committed to doing all we can to fight gender discrimination. Women in Australia face many challenges. We’re in the middle of a domestic violence crisis, but the services that support women who need help to escape violence are chronicallyunderfunded.
Women in Australia face many challenges. We’re in the middle of a domestic violence crisis, but the services that support women who need help to escape violence are chronicallyunderfunded. Outdated, conservative attitudes still influence our public debates.
We’re in the middle of a domestic violence crisis, but the services that support women who need help to escape violence are chronicallyunderfunded. Outdated, conservative attitudes still influence our public debates. Women continue to be paid less than men – in fact, the current gender pay gap of 17.9 per cent is the highest it’s been for two decades.
Outdated, conservative attitudes still influence our public debates. Women continue to be paid less than men – in fact, the current gender pay gap of 17.9 per cent is the highest it’s been for two decades. Women are disproportionately affected by unfair tax breaks in the superannuation system.
Women continue to be paid less than men – in fact, the current gender pay gap of 17.9 per cent is the highest it’s been for two decades. Women are disproportionately affected by unfair tax breaks in the superannuation system. Legal and financial barriers to securing safe, accessible and affordable abortion remain around the country.
Women are disproportionately affected by unfair tax breaks in the superannuation system. Legal and financial barriers to securing safe, accessible and affordable abortion remain around the country. And they’re underpaid and undervalued when it comes to paid parental leave.
Legal and financial barriers to securing safe, accessible and affordable abortion remain around the country. And they’re underpaid and undervalued when it comes to paid parental leave. The Australian Greens have a plan to stand up for Australian women, which includes a commitment to: Increase investment in frontline services for victims and survivors of domestic violence, with a ten-year, $5 billion commitment
And they’re underpaid and undervalued when it comes to paid parental leave. The Australian Greens have a plan to stand up for Australian women, which includes a commitment to: Increase investment in frontline services for victims and survivors of domestic violence, with a ten-year, $5 billion commitment Introduce a progressive super system that will go a long way to reducing the inequity women currently face in retirement
The Australian Greens have a plan to stand up for Australian women, which includes a commitment to: Increase investment in frontline services for victims and survivors of domestic violence, with a ten-year, $5 billion commitment Introduce a progressive super system that will go a long way to reducing the inequity women currently face in retirement Invest in decriminalisation, access and reducing out-of-pocket costs of abortion
Introduce a progressive super system that will go a long way to reducing the inequity women currently face in retirement Invest in decriminalisation, access and reducing out-of-pocket costs of abortion Tackle the gender pay gap by legislating to end pay gag clauses
Invest in decriminalisation, access and reducing out-of-pocket costs of abortion Tackle the gender pay gap by legislating to end pay gag clauses Reduce barriers for mums returning to work by investing in affordable childcare
Tackle the gender pay gap by legislating to end pay gag clauses Reduce barriers for mums returning to work by investing in affordable childcare Australia is in the middle of a domestic violence crisis but our safety net is full of holes.
Reduce barriers for mums returning to work by investing in affordable childcare Australia is in the middle of a domestic violence crisis but our safety net is full of holes. Domestic and family violence touches people from every walk of life. The data indicates that 1 in 3 WOMEN IN AUSTRALIA HAVE EXPERIENCED VIOLENCE SINCE AGE 15.
Australia is in the middle of a domestic violence crisis but our safety net is full of holes. Domestic and family violence touches people from every walk of life. The data indicates that 1 in 3 WOMEN IN AUSTRALIA HAVE EXPERIENCED VIOLENCE SINCE AGE 15. The Greens are putting forward a bold plan to increase investment in front line services with a ten-year, $5 billion commitment.
Domestic and family violence touches people from every walk of life. The data indicates that 1 in 3 WOMEN IN AUSTRALIA HAVE EXPERIENCED VIOLENCE SINCE AGE 15. The Greens are putting forward a bold plan to increase investment in front line services with a ten-year, $5 billion commitment. EMPOWERING AND SUPPORTING ABORIGINALAND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PEOPLES
The Greens are putting forward a bold plan to increase investment in front line services with a ten-year, $5 billion commitment. EMPOWERING AND SUPPORTING ABORIGINALAND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PEOPLES Australia has unfinished business; the Greens acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded.
EMPOWERING AND SUPPORTING ABORIGINALAND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PEOPLES Australia has unfinished business; the Greens acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have a strong and unbroken connection to the land and sea.
Australia has unfinished business; the Greens acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have a strong and unbroken connection to the land and sea. To be a truly reconciled nation, it is crucial that we address the issues of sovereignty and treaties.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have a strong and unbroken connection to the land and sea. To be a truly reconciled nation, it is crucial that we address the issues of sovereignty and treaties. It is past time for these issues to be resolved.
To be a truly reconciled nation, it is crucial that we address the issues of sovereignty and treaties. It is past time for these issues to be resolved. Twenty-five years after the final report of the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody, there are still too many Aboriginal people incarcerated, and dying in prison
It is past time for these issues to be resolved. Twenty-five years after the final report of the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody, there are still too many Aboriginal people incarcerated, and dying in prison Despite some modest gains in health indicators for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, much more must be done to close the gap in health outcomes between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians.
Twenty-five years after the final report of the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody, there are still too many Aboriginal people incarcerated, and dying in prison Despite some modest gains in health indicators for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, much more must be done to close the gap in health outcomes between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians. The latest data suggests there is still around a decade difference in lifeexpectancy between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, andnon-Indigenous Australians.
Despite some modest gains in health indicators for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, much more must be done to close the gap in health outcomes between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians. The latest data suggests there is still around a decade difference in lifeexpectancy between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, andnon-Indigenous Australians. Education outcomes are unequal.
The latest data suggests there is still around a decade difference in lifeexpectancy between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, andnon-Indigenous Australians. Education outcomes are unequal. At the same time, even after a long history of injustice, too often Aboriginal voices struggle to be heard.
Education outcomes are unequal. At the same time, even after a long history of injustice, too often Aboriginal voices struggle to be heard. The Greens support approaches that empower and invest in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, to create community driven solutions.
At the same time, even after a long history of injustice, too often Aboriginal voices struggle to be heard. The Greens support approaches that empower and invest in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, to create community driven solutions. The Greens plan includes a commitment to:  Provide $30 million to advance the national conversation on sovereignty and treaties
The Greens support approaches that empower and invest in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, to create community driven solutions. The Greens plan includes a commitment to:  Provide $30 million to advance the national conversation on sovereignty and treaties Set a national justice target, develop a national strategy to address incarceration rates, and provide $40 million for projects to reduce incarceration rates
The Greens plan includes a commitment to:  Provide $30 million to advance the national conversation on sovereignty and treaties Set a national justice target, develop a national strategy to address incarceration rates, and provide $40 million for projects to reduce incarceration rates Invest in key health programs, and work to make sure the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan succeeds
Set a national justice target, develop a national strategy to address incarceration rates, and provide $40 million for projects to reduce incarceration rates Invest in key health programs, and work to make sure the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan succeeds Re-fund the National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples
Invest in key health programs, and work to make sure the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan succeeds Re-fund the National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples Provide $20 million in funding for projects to reduce the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children entering out of home care
Re-fund the National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples Provide $20 million in funding for projects to reduce the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children entering out of home care Develop a plan to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and provide $20 million for projects to support domestic implementation
Provide $20 million in funding for projects to reduce the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children entering out of home care Develop a plan to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and provide $20 million for projects to support domestic implementation Ensure funding for mental health services and suicide prevention
Develop a plan to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and provide $20 million for projects to support domestic implementation Ensure funding for mental health services and suicide prevention Double funding for the Indigenous Rangers program, which has proven benefits for people, country and the economy
Ensure funding for mental health services and suicide prevention Double funding for the Indigenous Rangers program, which has proven benefits for people, country and the economy Continue to stand alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities against the Stronger Futures process and income management
Double funding for the Indigenous Rangers program, which has proven benefits for people, country and the economy Continue to stand alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities against the Stronger Futures process and income management SUPPORTING PEOPLE WITH DISABILITY
Continue to stand alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities against the Stronger Futures process and income management SUPPORTING PEOPLE WITH DISABILITY Everyone has a right to independence, self-determination and to be able to participate fully in society.
SUPPORTING PEOPLE WITH DISABILITY Everyone has a right to independence, self-determination and to be able to participate fully in society. People with disability, their families and carers, should be able to actively participate in policy, service planning and delivery.
Everyone has a right to independence, self-determination and to be able to participate fully in society. People with disability, their families and carers, should be able to actively participate in policy, service planning and delivery. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a fundamental shift, enabling people with disability to control their services and supports.
People with disability, their families and carers, should be able to actively participate in policy, service planning and delivery. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a fundamental shift, enabling people with disability to control their services and supports. The Greens want a fully funded rollout of the NDIS, to ensure the NDIS is the best it can be.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a fundamental shift, enabling people with disability to control their services and supports. The Greens want a fully funded rollout of the NDIS, to ensure the NDIS is the best it can be. People with disability should also have access to a strong social safety net.
The Greens want a fully funded rollout of the NDIS, to ensure the NDIS is the best it can be. People with disability should also have access to a strong social safety net. The Greens have fought cuts by the old parties to the Disability Support Pension (DSP), and will campaign to make sure that the DSP is available to everyone who needs it.
People with disability should also have access to a strong social safety net. The Greens have fought cuts by the old parties to the Disability Support Pension (DSP), and will campaign to make sure that the DSP is available to everyone who needs it. The Greens also initiated and chaired a Senate inquiry into violence, abuse and neglect of people with disability in residential settings.
The Greens have fought cuts by the old parties to the Disability Support Pension (DSP), and will campaign to make sure that the DSP is available to everyone who needs it. The Greens also initiated and chaired a Senate inquiry into violence, abuse and neglect of people with disability in residential settings. This highlighted the widespread abuse of people with disability, and made clear recommendations for a Royal Commission and immediate government action.
The Greens also initiated and chaired a Senate inquiry into violence, abuse and neglect of people with disability in residential settings. This highlighted the widespread abuse of people with disability, and made clear recommendations for a Royal Commission and immediate government action. The Greens plan to support people with disability includes a commitment to: Ensure there is a national roll-out of a fully funded National Disability Insurance Scheme, to ensure it is the best it can be
This highlighted the widespread abuse of people with disability, and made clear recommendations for a Royal Commission and immediate government action. The Greens plan to support people with disability includes a commitment to: Ensure there is a national roll-out of a fully funded National Disability Insurance Scheme, to ensure it is the best it can be Provide $2.3 million to make audio description available on the ABC iView
The Greens plan to support people with disability includes a commitment to: Ensure there is a national roll-out of a fully funded National Disability Insurance Scheme, to ensure it is the best it can be Provide $2.3 million to make audio description available on the ABC iView Develop a national action plan for making audio description more widely available across public and commercial broadcasters
Provide $2.3 million to make audio description available on the ABC iView Develop a national action plan for making audio description more widely available across public and commercial broadcasters Reverse Coalition cuts to the Disability Support Pension, so that people with a disability can continue to access income support
Develop a national action plan for making audio description more widely available across public and commercial broadcasters Reverse Coalition cuts to the Disability Support Pension, so that people with a disability can continue to access income support Establish a Royal Commission into the violence, abuse and neglect of people with disability in institutional settings
Reverse Coalition cuts to the Disability Support Pension, so that people with a disability can continue to access income support Establish a Royal Commission into the violence, abuse and neglect of people with disability in institutional settings Provide $42.3 million to limit preventable blindness, and $19 million annually for measures to target children with hearing impairment
Establish a Royal Commission into the violence, abuse and neglect of people with disability in institutional settings Provide $42.3 million to limit preventable blindness, and $19 million annually for measures to target children with hearing impairment Ensure students with a disability are funded for the extra school resources they need to support their education
Provide $42.3 million to limit preventable blindness, and $19 million annually for measures to target children with hearing impairment Ensure students with a disability are funded for the extra school resources they need to support their education The Greens initiated and chaired the Senate inquiry into the violence, abuse and neglect of people with disability in residential settings.
Ensure students with a disability are funded for the extra school resources they need to support their education The Greens initiated and chaired the Senate inquiry into the violence, abuse and neglect of people with disability in residential settings. That inquiry held hearings and heard hundreds of accounts from across the country, including more than 150 written submissions.
The Greens initiated and chaired the Senate inquiry into the violence, abuse and neglect of people with disability in residential settings. That inquiry held hearings and heard hundreds of accounts from across the country, including more than 150 written submissions. Violence, abuse and neglect of people with disability iswidespread and on-going; data shows that over a quarter of allsexual assault victims identify as having a disability.
That inquiry held hearings and heard hundreds of accounts from across the country, including more than 150 written submissions. Violence, abuse and neglect of people with disability iswidespread and on-going; data shows that over a quarter of allsexual assault victims identify as having a disability. A Royal Commission is essential to bring to justice theperpetrators responsible and ensure that this abuse stops.
Violence, abuse and neglect of people with disability iswidespread and on-going; data shows that over a quarter of allsexual assault victims identify as having a disability. A Royal Commission is essential to bring to justice theperpetrators responsible and ensure that this abuse stops. EQUALITY FOR THE LGBTIQ COMMUNITY
A Royal Commission is essential to bring to justice theperpetrators responsible and ensure that this abuse stops. EQUALITY FOR THE LGBTIQ COMMUNITY Valuing diversity and celebrating difference benefits all of us.
EQUALITY FOR THE LGBTIQ COMMUNITY Valuing diversity and celebrating difference benefits all of us. The Greens always have, and always will, stand with our lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer communities.
Valuing diversity and celebrating difference benefits all of us. The Greens always have, and always will, stand with our lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer communities. LGBTIQ communities continue to face discrimination, attacks on human rights and limited access to vital services.
The Greens always have, and always will, stand with our lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer communities. LGBTIQ communities continue to face discrimination, attacks on human rights and limited access to vital services. Limitations in anti-discrimination law, the Turnbull Government proposal for a divisive and expensive plebiscite on marriage equality, and attacks on the Safe Schools program all illustrate the conservative attacks faced by LGBTIQ communities.
LGBTIQ communities continue to face discrimination, attacks on human rights and limited access to vital services. Limitations in anti-discrimination law, the Turnbull Government proposal for a divisive and expensive plebiscite on marriage equality, and attacks on the Safe Schools program all illustrate the conservative attacks faced by LGBTIQ communities. The Australian Greens are a strong voice in our parliament for LGBTIQ rights.
Limitations in anti-discrimination law, the Turnbull Government proposal for a divisive and expensive plebiscite on marriage equality, and attacks on the Safe Schools program all illustrate the conservative attacks faced by LGBTIQ communities. The Australian Greens are a strong voice in our parliament for LGBTIQ rights. Our plan to keep LGBTIQ rights firmly on the agenda, in the community and in our political debate includes a commitment to: Continue to push for a free vote on marriage equality, and push the Turnbull Government to ditch the plebiscite
The Australian Greens are a strong voice in our parliament for LGBTIQ rights. Our plan to keep LGBTIQ rights firmly on the agenda, in the community and in our political debate includes a commitment to: Continue to push for a free vote on marriage equality, and push the Turnbull Government to ditch the plebiscite Strengthen anti-discrimination laws by eliminating exemptions that currently enable religious organisations to discriminate based on sexuality
Our plan to keep LGBTIQ rights firmly on the agenda, in the community and in our political debate includes a commitment to: Continue to push for a free vote on marriage equality, and push the Turnbull Government to ditch the plebiscite Strengthen anti-discrimination laws by eliminating exemptions that currently enable religious organisations to discriminate based on sexuality Defend and protect the Safe Schools program, and expand its funding
Strengthen anti-discrimination laws by eliminating exemptions that currently enable religious organisations to discriminate based on sexuality Defend and protect the Safe Schools program, and expand its funding Ensure better access to HIV-prevention medication by advocating for PrEP to be listed under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, and provide a funding guarantee for people at high risk of exposure to HIV
Defend and protect the Safe Schools program, and expand its funding Ensure better access to HIV-prevention medication by advocating for PrEP to be listed under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, and provide a funding guarantee for people at high risk of exposure to HIV Work hard to change laws so same-sex couples can access assisted reproduction techniques like IVF, and be able to adopt children
Ensure better access to HIV-prevention medication by advocating for PrEP to be listed under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, and provide a funding guarantee for people at high risk of exposure to HIV Work hard to change laws so same-sex couples can access assisted reproduction techniques like IVF, and be able to adopt children Remove barriers to hormone treatments for transgender and gender diverse young people
Work hard to change laws so same-sex couples can access assisted reproduction techniques like IVF, and be able to adopt children Remove barriers to hormone treatments for transgender and gender diverse young people Ensure the rights of intersex people are respected and protected
Remove barriers to hormone treatments for transgender and gender diverse young people Ensure the rights of intersex people are respected and protected Improve mental health care and aged care for LGBTIQ people
Ensure the rights of intersex people are respected and protected Improve mental health care and aged care for LGBTIQ people ENDING CRUELTY TO ANIMALS
Improve mental health care and aged care for LGBTIQ people ENDING CRUELTY TO ANIMALS There is growing public support for animal welfare to be part of ourapproach to all animals in Australia.
ENDING CRUELTY TO ANIMALS There is growing public support for animal welfare to be part of ourapproach to all animals in Australia. Revelations of horrific mistreatment of animals in the live-export trade has launched a groundswell of public demand to end the practice.
There is growing public support for animal welfare to be part of ourapproach to all animals in Australia. Revelations of horrific mistreatment of animals in the live-export trade has launched a groundswell of public demand to end the practice. Consumers are calling for Australia to align itself with other nations around the world by banning cosmetic animal testing.
Revelations of horrific mistreatment of animals in the live-export trade has launched a groundswell of public demand to end the practice. Consumers are calling for Australia to align itself with other nations around the world by banning cosmetic animal testing. A growing number of Australians are opting to buy ‘free-range’ eggs to avoid the horrific cruelty of factory farming.
Consumers are calling for Australia to align itself with other nations around the world by banning cosmetic animal testing. A growing number of Australians are opting to buy ‘free-range’ eggs to avoid the horrific cruelty of factory farming. Despite this public demand for humane and accountable treatment of animals, governments continue to sanction cruelty by refusing to change woefully inadequate minimum animal welfare standards and make industry transparent and accountable.
A growing number of Australians are opting to buy ‘free-range’ eggs to avoid the horrific cruelty of factory farming. Despite this public demand for humane and accountable treatment of animals, governments continue to sanction cruelty by refusing to change woefully inadequate minimum animal welfare standards and make industry transparent and accountable. The Greens are deeply committed to improving the welfare and wellbeing of animals, and will continue working with Australia’s animal welfare and rights organisations to achieve this.
Despite this public demand for humane and accountable treatment of animals, governments continue to sanction cruelty by refusing to change woefully inadequate minimum animal welfare standards and make industry transparent and accountable. The Greens are deeply committed to improving the welfare and wellbeing of animals, and will continue working with Australia’s animal welfare and rights organisations to achieve this. The Greens have a plan to end cruelty to animals in Australia which includes a commitment to: Transition away from the cruel live animal export trade,
The Greens are deeply committed to improving the welfare and wellbeing of animals, and will continue working with Australia’s animal welfare and rights organisations to achieve this. The Greens have a plan to end cruelty to animals in Australia which includes a commitment to: Transition away from the cruel live animal export trade, and support our domestic meat processing sector by growing our more economically sustainable chilled meat trade
The Greens have a plan to end cruelty to animals in Australia which includes a commitment to: Transition away from the cruel live animal export trade, and support our domestic meat processing sector by growing our more economically sustainable chilled meat trade Establish an Independent Office of Animal Welfare to promote and oversee animal welfare in Australia
and support our domestic meat processing sector by growing our more economically sustainable chilled meat trade Establish an Independent Office of Animal Welfare to promote and oversee animal welfare in Australia Ban cruel cosmetic testing on animals
Establish an Independent Office of Animal Welfare to promote and oversee animal welfare in Australia Ban cruel cosmetic testing on animals Establish an accurate national labelling system of products that identifies cruelty-free, free-range, organic, and free from content derived from habitat destruction
Ban cruel cosmetic testing on animals Establish an accurate national labelling system of products that identifies cruelty-free, free-range, organic, and free from content derived from habitat destruction Upgrade standards for farming practices for all agricultural animals which reflect commonly understood definitions of freerange and other ethical treatment of animals
Establish an accurate national labelling system of products that identifies cruelty-free, free-range, organic, and free from content derived from habitat destruction Upgrade standards for farming practices for all agricultural animals which reflect commonly understood definitions of freerange and other ethical treatment of animals THE HORRIFIC MISTREATMENT OF ANIMALS IN THE LIVE EXPORTTRADE CONTINUES.
Upgrade standards for farming practices for all agricultural animals which reflect commonly understood definitions of freerange and other ethical treatment of animals THE HORRIFIC MISTREATMENT OF ANIMALS IN THE LIVE EXPORTTRADE CONTINUES. Evidence shows Australia’s minimal live export welfare regulations do not work.
THE HORRIFIC MISTREATMENT OF ANIMALS IN THE LIVE EXPORTTRADE CONTINUES. Evidence shows Australia’s minimal live export welfare regulations do not work. MORE THAN 1.2 million SHEEP HAVE DIED DURING THE CRUEL JOURNEY FROM AUSTRALIA OVER THE LAST 10 YEARS.
Evidence shows Australia’s minimal live export welfare regulations do not work. MORE THAN 1.2 million SHEEP HAVE DIED DURING THE CRUEL JOURNEY FROM AUSTRALIA OVER THE LAST 10 YEARS. Australia can provide a more economically robust and humane alternative to the live export trade by boosting boxed meat exports.
MORE THAN 1.2 million SHEEP HAVE DIED DURING THE CRUEL JOURNEY FROM AUSTRALIA OVER THE LAST 10 YEARS. Australia can provide a more economically robust and humane alternative to the live export trade by boosting boxed meat exports. NEW ECONOMY
Australia can provide a more economically robust and humane alternative to the live export trade by boosting boxed meat exports. NEW ECONOMY The Greens are the only party that understands that the economy must work for the benefit of society and not the other way around.
NEW ECONOMY The Greens are the only party that understands that the economy must work for the benefit of society and not the other way around. Australians are forward-looking, well-educated and early adopters of new technologies.
The Greens are the only party that understands that the economy must work for the benefit of society and not the other way around. Australians are forward-looking, well-educated and early adopters of new technologies. We have everything we need to build the new clean economy, except the political will to invest public money for the future and the courage to take on the vested interests of the past.
Australians are forward-looking, well-educated and early adopters of new technologies. We have everything we need to build the new clean economy, except the political will to invest public money for the future and the courage to take on the vested interests of the past. With the right policies, the new economy will be driven by clean energy.
We have everything we need to build the new clean economy, except the political will to invest public money for the future and the courage to take on the vested interests of the past. With the right policies, the new economy will be driven by clean energy. Together with smart investment, we can provide opportunities for innovators and entrepreneurs, supporting them so Australia can become a global centreof ideas.
With the right policies, the new economy will be driven by clean energy. Together with smart investment, we can provide opportunities for innovators and entrepreneurs, supporting them so Australia can become a global centreof ideas. The latest in science and business development can drive innovations in health care, agriculture, tourism and advanced manufacturing generating more jobs.
Together with smart investment, we can provide opportunities for innovators and entrepreneurs, supporting them so Australia can become a global centreof ideas. The latest in science and business development can drive innovations in health care, agriculture, tourism and advanced manufacturing generating more jobs. We need to ensure that Australians have access to education throughout their life, from their earliest years into their employment
The latest in science and business development can drive innovations in health care, agriculture, tourism and advanced manufacturing generating more jobs. We need to ensure that Australians have access to education throughout their life, from their earliest years into their employment We need an early childhood education and care sector that is affordable and accessible,and schools funding based on needs, not sectors or means.
We need to ensure that Australians have access to education throughout their life, from their earliest years into their employment We need an early childhood education and care sector that is affordable and accessible,and schools funding based on needs, not sectors or means. We need a vibrant higher education sector, including fixing our broken vocational education and training sector.
We need an early childhood education and care sector that is affordable and accessible,and schools funding based on needs, not sectors or means. We need a vibrant higher education sector, including fixing our broken vocational education and training sector. We want to ensure all Australians benefit from a lifetime of learning.
We need a vibrant higher education sector, including fixing our broken vocational education and training sector. We want to ensure all Australians benefit from a lifetime of learning. The Greens have a plan which includes a commitment to:Reverse the government’s antiinnovative and climate destroying policies, and increase Australia’s investment in science and innovation
We want to ensure all Australians benefit from a lifetime of learning. The Greens have a plan which includes a commitment to:Reverse the government’s antiinnovative and climate destroying policies, and increase Australia’s investment in science and innovation Ensure every Australian child has access to early childhood education and care by providing families with 24 hours of universal subsidised care per week
The Greens have a plan which includes a commitment to:Reverse the government’s antiinnovative and climate destroying policies, and increase Australia’s investment in science and innovation Ensure every Australian child has access to early childhood education and care by providing families with 24 hours of universal subsidised care per week Create a world-class school education system with needs based funding for all
Ensure every Australian child has access to early childhood education and care by providing families with 24 hours of universal subsidised care per week Create a world-class school education system with needs based funding for all Prioritise and support TAFE as a critical part of the Australian education system
Create a world-class school education system with needs based funding for all Prioritise and support TAFE as a critical part of the Australian education system Continue to fight against higher fees for university students, by reducing HELP costs by 20% and reinstating scholarship support
Prioritise and support TAFE as a critical part of the Australian education system Continue to fight against higher fees for university students, by reducing HELP costs by 20% and reinstating scholarship support Work toward a cost-effective and future proof NBN,
Continue to fight against higher fees for university students, by reducing HELP costs by 20% and reinstating scholarship support Work toward a cost-effective and future proof NBN, and stand up for the digital rights of Australians
Work toward a cost-effective and future proof NBN, and stand up for the digital rights of Australians Reverse the Abbott-Turnbull Government’s harsh cuts to the ABC and SBS
and stand up for the digital rights of Australians Reverse the Abbott-Turnbull Government’s harsh cuts to the ABC and SBS Stand up for small business by levelling the playing field
Reverse the Abbott-Turnbull Government’s harsh cuts to the ABC and SBS Stand up for small business by levelling the playing field Put people at the centre of our workplace laws to create a more caring society and support working people throughout their lives
Stand up for small business by levelling the playing field Put people at the centre of our workplace laws to create a more caring society and support working people throughout their lives SCIENCE AND INNOVATION
Put people at the centre of our workplace laws to create a more caring society and support working people throughout their lives SCIENCE AND INNOVATION Australia’s economy is in transition like never before, and to make the most of these opportunities, we need to invest in science and innovation.
SCIENCE AND INNOVATION Australia’s economy is in transition like never before, and to make the most of these opportunities, we need to invest in science and innovation. Innovation is more than a buzzword.
Australia’s economy is in transition like never before, and to make the most of these opportunities, we need to invest in science and innovation. Innovation is more than a buzzword. The world we are part of faces unprecedented challenges but also unparalleled opportunities.
Innovation is more than a buzzword. The world we are part of faces unprecedented challenges but also unparalleled opportunities. The future drivers of the global economy will be innovators and entrepreneurs.
The world we are part of faces unprecedented challenges but also unparalleled opportunities. The future drivers of the global economy will be innovators and entrepreneurs. But we need to invest and support them if we want Australia to become a global centre of ideas.
The future drivers of the global economy will be innovators and entrepreneurs. But we need to invest and support them if we want Australia to become a global centre of ideas. The latest in science and business development can drive innovations in health care, agriculture, tourism and advanced manufacturing, generating more jobs.
But we need to invest and support them if we want Australia to become a global centre of ideas. The latest in science and business development can drive innovations in health care, agriculture, tourism and advanced manufacturing, generating more jobs. Our service sector will flourish creating further jobs for people workingfor and with people.
The latest in science and business development can drive innovations in health care, agriculture, tourism and advanced manufacturing, generating more jobs. Our service sector will flourish creating further jobs for people workingfor and with people. The Greens, Australia’s political disruptors, will reverse the government’s anti-innovative and climate destroying policies.
Our service sector will flourish creating further jobs for people workingfor and with people. The Greens, Australia’s political disruptors, will reverse the government’s anti-innovative and climate destroying policies. Our policies would create a smarter, more innovative country,and help end Australia’s dependence on the industries of last century.
The Greens, Australia’s political disruptors, will reverse the government’s anti-innovative and climate destroying policies. Our policies would create a smarter, more innovative country,and help end Australia’s dependence on the industries of last century. AUSTRALIA IS RATED 17TH IN THE WORLD ON THE GLOBALINNOVATION INDEX.
Our policies would create a smarter, more innovative country,and help end Australia’s dependence on the industries of last century. AUSTRALIA IS RATED 17TH IN THE WORLD ON THE GLOBALINNOVATION INDEX. THIS IS NOT GOOD ENOUGH, AS WE FALL TO 72nd IN THE WORLD WHEN IT COMES TO TURNING RESEARCH INTO COMMERCIAL OUTCOMES.
AUSTRALIA IS RATED 17TH IN THE WORLD ON THE GLOBALINNOVATION INDEX. THIS IS NOT GOOD ENOUGH, AS WE FALL TO 72nd IN THE WORLD WHEN IT COMES TO TURNING RESEARCH INTO COMMERCIAL OUTCOMES. The Greens’ plan to invest and support science and innovation includes a commitment to: Secure our future through research and development with our roadmap to increase R&D investment to 4% of GDP
THIS IS NOT GOOD ENOUGH, AS WE FALL TO 72nd IN THE WORLD WHEN IT COMES TO TURNING RESEARCH INTO COMMERCIAL OUTCOMES. The Greens’ plan to invest and support science and innovation includes a commitment to: Secure our future through research and development with our roadmap to increase R&D investment to 4% of GDP Set up an Innovation Commissioner, tasked with working with industry, universities, business, government agencies and Innovation and Science Australia to advance the innovation agenda
The Greens’ plan to invest and support science and innovation includes a commitment to: Secure our future through research and development with our roadmap to increase R&D investment to 4% of GDP Set up an Innovation Commissioner, tasked with working with industry, universities, business, government agencies and Innovation and Science Australia to advance the innovation agenda Reverse the Abbott-Turnbull Government’s massive cuts to innovation funding, which will allow start-ups access to crucial early stage capital grants
Set up an Innovation Commissioner, tasked with working with industry, universities, business, government agencies and Innovation and Science Australia to advance the innovation agenda Reverse the Abbott-Turnbull Government’s massive cuts to innovation funding, which will allow start-ups access to crucial early stage capital grants Protecting science and research by restoring funding to the CSIRO
Reverse the Abbott-Turnbull Government’s massive cuts to innovation funding, which will allow start-ups access to crucial early stage capital grants Protecting science and research by restoring funding to the CSIRO Invest in sustainable agriculture, boosting funding for agricultural R&D to address the broad, cross-sectoral issues and challenges our farmers and growers are facing
Protecting science and research by restoring funding to the CSIRO Invest in sustainable agriculture, boosting funding for agricultural R&D to address the broad, cross-sectoral issues and challenges our farmers and growers are facing Commit $8.47 million in funding to help drive Australia’s evolution from the lucky country to the smart country
Invest in sustainable agriculture, boosting funding for agricultural R&D to address the broad, cross-sectoral issues and challenges our farmers and growers are facing Commit $8.47 million in funding to help drive Australia’s evolution from the lucky country to the smart country Commit $678.9 million to increase uptake of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics subjects in our schools and universities
Commit $8.47 million in funding to help drive Australia’s evolution from the lucky country to the smart country Commit $678.9 million to increase uptake of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics subjects in our schools and universities Incentivise and support social innovation and local investment in innovation and venture capital through the Future Fund
Commit $678.9 million to increase uptake of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics subjects in our schools and universities Incentivise and support social innovation and local investment in innovation and venture capital through the Future Fund EDUCATION EQUALITY
Incentivise and support social innovation and local investment in innovation and venture capital through the Future Fund EDUCATION EQUALITY The Greens know that investment in public education is essential to ensure a fair Australia and is a key part of our transition to a sustainable new economy.
EDUCATION EQUALITY The Greens know that investment in public education is essential to ensure a fair Australia and is a key part of our transition to a sustainable new economy. We’re committed to ensuring that all Australian kids have access toworld class child care, early childhood education and schools.
The Greens know that investment in public education is essential to ensure a fair Australia and is a key part of our transition to a sustainable new economy. We’re committed to ensuring that all Australian kids have access toworld class child care, early childhood education and schools. We know that early childhood education is crucial for a child’s development, but that it remains drastically underfunded.
We’re committed to ensuring that all Australian kids have access toworld class child care, early childhood education and schools. We know that early childhood education is crucial for a child’s development, but that it remains drastically underfunded. Universal access to early childhood education and case (ECEC) should be central to a much needed overhaul of the childcare sector.
We know that early childhood education is crucial for a child’s development, but that it remains drastically underfunded. Universal access to early childhood education and case (ECEC) should be central to a much needed overhaul of the childcare sector. We know that our schools are chronically underfunded, putting pressure on teachers, students and parents.
Universal access to early childhood education and case (ECEC) should be central to a much needed overhaul of the childcare sector. We know that our schools are chronically underfunded, putting pressure on teachers, students and parents. And we know that less than half of students with disability in Australianschools are currently being funded for their support needs.
We know that our schools are chronically underfunded, putting pressure on teachers, students and parents. And we know that less than half of students with disability in Australianschools are currently being funded for their support needs. This is unacceptable, and unfair: it fails students, and it fails our schools.
And we know that less than half of students with disability in Australianschools are currently being funded for their support needs. This is unacceptable, and unfair: it fails students, and it fails our schools. The Greens have a plan for an equitable, accessible and world class education system that includes a commitment to:Cut out-of-pocket expenses to families by providing 24 hours of universal subsidized early childhood education and care per week
This is unacceptable, and unfair: it fails students, and it fails our schools. The Greens have a plan for an equitable, accessible and world class education system that includes a commitment to:Cut out-of-pocket expenses to families by providing 24 hours of universal subsidized early childhood education and care per week Increase access to early childhood education and care for all children by making more spaces available and reducing waiting list times, especially in high need areas by introducing a $200 million ‘Reducing Waiting Lists’ grants fund for centres to increase the number of spaces that they offer
The Greens have a plan for an equitable, accessible and world class education system that includes a commitment to:Cut out-of-pocket expenses to families by providing 24 hours of universal subsidized early childhood education and care per week Increase access to early childhood education and care for all children by making more spaces available and reducing waiting list times, especially in high need areas by introducing a $200 million ‘Reducing Waiting Lists’ grants fund for centres to increase the number of spaces that they offer Ensure schools funding is based on needs, by honouring the full Gonksi six years of National Education Reform Agreement (NERA) for all jurisdictions
Increase access to early childhood education and care for all children by making more spaces available and reducing waiting list times, especially in high need areas by introducing a $200 million ‘Reducing Waiting Lists’ grants fund for centres to increase the number of spaces that they offer Ensure schools funding is based on needs, by honouring the full Gonksi six years of National Education Reform Agreement (NERA) for all jurisdictions Enable an equitable education for all by funding an extra $1.1 billion into disability in schools for 2016–17
Ensure schools funding is based on needs, by honouring the full Gonksi six years of National Education Reform Agreement (NERA) for all jurisdictions Enable an equitable education for all by funding an extra $1.1 billion into disability in schools for 2016–17 Provide extra funding for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and entrepreneurial curriculums and teaching incentives
Enable an equitable education for all by funding an extra $1.1 billion into disability in schools for 2016–17 Provide extra funding for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and entrepreneurial curriculums and teaching incentives Introduce a sustainable schools fund, built on an initiative that The Greens rolled out in Tasmania, where schools can bid to the fund for energy and water efficiency projects and renewables
Provide extra funding for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and entrepreneurial curriculums and teaching incentives Introduce a sustainable schools fund, built on an initiative that The Greens rolled out in Tasmania, where schools can bid to the fund for energy and water efficiency projects and renewables STANDING UP FOR HIGHER EDUCATION
Introduce a sustainable schools fund, built on an initiative that The Greens rolled out in Tasmania, where schools can bid to the fund for energy and water efficiency projects and renewables STANDING UP FOR HIGHER EDUCATION The Greens have the courage to back students and make high-quality post-secondary education accessible to all Australians.
STANDING UP FOR HIGHER EDUCATION The Greens have the courage to back students and make high-quality post-secondary education accessible to all Australians. University students face more barriers to education than ever before.
The Greens have the courage to back students and make high-quality post-secondary education accessible to all Australians. University students face more barriers to education than ever before. The Labor and Liberal parties have increased student debt and class sizes, while cutting student support.
University students face more barriers to education than ever before. The Labor and Liberal parties have increased student debt and class sizes, while cutting student support. With the Coalition committed to deregulation, studying at university will likely become out of reach for many students from lower-income ordisadvantaged backgrounds.
The Labor and Liberal parties have increased student debt and class sizes, while cutting student support. With the Coalition committed to deregulation, studying at university will likely become out of reach for many students from lower-income ordisadvantaged backgrounds. HELP debts could grow to the size of a housing deposit – or more.
With the Coalition committed to deregulation, studying at university will likely become out of reach for many students from lower-income ordisadvantaged backgrounds. HELP debts could grow to the size of a housing deposit – or more. Similarly, the challenges faced by TAFE are unprecedented.
HELP debts could grow to the size of a housing deposit – or more. Similarly, the challenges faced by TAFE are unprecedented. The slash and burn approach by the Liberals along with commercialisingthe sector has reduced the number of students attending TAFE, and resulted in fees skyrocketing and campuses being forced to abandon many courses deemed unsuitable due to this commercialised approach.
Similarly, the challenges faced by TAFE are unprecedented. The slash and burn approach by the Liberals along with commercialisingthe sector has reduced the number of students attending TAFE, and resulted in fees skyrocketing and campuses being forced to abandon many courses deemed unsuitable due to this commercialised approach. The Greens believe that all Australians are entitled to free, well-funded and high quality, life-long education and training.
The slash and burn approach by the Liberals along with commercialisingthe sector has reduced the number of students attending TAFE, and resulted in fees skyrocketing and campuses being forced to abandon many courses deemed unsuitable due to this commercialised approach. The Greens believe that all Australians are entitled to free, well-funded and high quality, life-long education and training. To make this happen, the Greens have a plan which includes a commitment to:Fight against higher fees for university students by reducing students’ HELP costs by 20%
The Greens believe that all Australians are entitled to free, well-funded and high quality, life-long education and training. To make this happen, the Greens have a plan which includes a commitment to:Fight against higher fees for university students by reducing students’ HELP costs by 20% Fund a 10% increase in base funding per student at public universities, to help universities deliver high quality courses without student fees skyrocketing
To make this happen, the Greens have a plan which includes a commitment to:Fight against higher fees for university students by reducing students’ HELP costs by 20% Fund a 10% increase in base funding per student at public universities, to help universities deliver high quality courses without student fees skyrocketing Ensure low-income students are supported through reinstatement of the Student Start- Up Scholarships, which were turned into loans by the Liberal and Labor parties
Fund a 10% increase in base funding per student at public universities, to help universities deliver high quality courses without student fees skyrocketing Ensure low-income students are supported through reinstatement of the Student Start- Up Scholarships, which were turned into loans by the Liberal and Labor parties Reverse Labor and the Liberals’ funding cuts to university research, to restabilise this important funding stream
Ensure low-income students are supported through reinstatement of the Student Start- Up Scholarships, which were turned into loans by the Liberal and Labor parties Reverse Labor and the Liberals’ funding cuts to university research, to restabilise this important funding stream Cease providing federal government funds to for-profit VET providers
Reverse Labor and the Liberals’ funding cuts to university research, to restabilise this important funding stream Cease providing federal government funds to for-profit VET providers Implement a TAFE federal rescue package to boost funding for schools and students
Cease providing federal government funds to for-profit VET providers Implement a TAFE federal rescue package to boost funding for schools and students Establish a VET Ombudsman to oversee the investigation of complaints of improper activity by VET providers
Implement a TAFE federal rescue package to boost funding for schools and students Establish a VET Ombudsman to oversee the investigation of complaints of improper activity by VET providers The Coalition has been pushing to deregulate course fees since their first budget in 2014.
Establish a VET Ombudsman to oversee the investigation of complaints of improper activity by VET providers The Coalition has been pushing to deregulate course fees since their first budget in 2014. Legislating this change would see $100K degrees become a reality and would make it increasingly difficult for young people to enter into the housing market and invest in other significant life decisions.
The Coalition has been pushing to deregulate course fees since their first budget in 2014. Legislating this change would see $100K degrees become a reality and would make it increasingly difficult for young people to enter into the housing market and invest in other significant life decisions. THE GREENS HAVE PLAYED A VITAL ROLE FIGHTING AGAINST – AND BLOCKING – THESE FEE INCREASES, WHICH HAVE BEEN A BLATANT COSTSHIFTING EXERCISE BY THE COALITION.
Legislating this change would see $100K degrees become a reality and would make it increasingly difficult for young people to enter into the housing market and invest in other significant life decisions. THE GREENS HAVE PLAYED A VITAL ROLE FIGHTING AGAINST – AND BLOCKING – THESE FEE INCREASES, WHICH HAVE BEEN A BLATANT COSTSHIFTING EXERCISE BY THE COALITION. THE DIGITAL ECONOMY
THE GREENS HAVE PLAYED A VITAL ROLE FIGHTING AGAINST – AND BLOCKING – THESE FEE INCREASES, WHICH HAVE BEEN A BLATANT COSTSHIFTING EXERCISE BY THE COALITION. THE DIGITAL ECONOMY The future of the new economy hinges on access to world class digitalinfrastructure, the protection of digital rights, and a strong communications sector.
THE DIGITAL ECONOMY The future of the new economy hinges on access to world class digitalinfrastructure, the protection of digital rights, and a strong communications sector. We cannot be an innovative nation while we are encumbered by the mistakes of the Abbott- Turnbull Government.
The future of the new economy hinges on access to world class digitalinfrastructure, the protection of digital rights, and a strong communications sector. We cannot be an innovative nation while we are encumbered by the mistakes of the Abbott- Turnbull Government. We know that reliance on on Fibre to the Node (FTTN) and the dilapidated copper network was an avoidable mistake.
We cannot be an innovative nation while we are encumbered by the mistakes of the Abbott- Turnbull Government. We know that reliance on on Fibre to the Node (FTTN) and the dilapidated copper network was an avoidable mistake. We know that our rights online are being trampled, as government has given law enforcement and spy agencies free reign over the internet.
We know that reliance on on Fibre to the Node (FTTN) and the dilapidated copper network was an avoidable mistake. We know that our rights online are being trampled, as government has given law enforcement and spy agencies free reign over the internet. Australian Internet Service Providers are now required by law to retain data on their users, which law enforcement and government agencies may access at any time, with no judicial oversight.
We know that our rights online are being trampled, as government has given law enforcement and spy agencies free reign over the internet. Australian Internet Service Providers are now required by law to retain data on their users, which law enforcement and government agencies may access at any time, with no judicial oversight. We need this infrastructure as more and more Australians are using the internet in their everyday lives.
Australian Internet Service Providers are now required by law to retain data on their users, which law enforcement and government agencies may access at any time, with no judicial oversight. We need this infrastructure as more and more Australians are using the internet in their everyday lives. The NBN is one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects ever attempted in Australia, and in the event of the change of Government, we will have an important opportunity to hit reset on this troubled project, and bring it to completion.
We need this infrastructure as more and more Australians are using the internet in their everyday lives. The NBN is one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects ever attempted in Australia, and in the event of the change of Government, we will have an important opportunity to hit reset on this troubled project, and bring it to completion. Access to digital networks is a right, and it is incumbent upon government to make it fast and affordable.
The NBN is one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects ever attempted in Australia, and in the event of the change of Government, we will have an important opportunity to hit reset on this troubled project, and bring it to completion. Access to digital networks is a right, and it is incumbent upon government to make it fast and affordable. This is critical to ensure the future of Australia’s digital economy.
Access to digital networks is a right, and it is incumbent upon government to make it fast and affordable. This is critical to ensure the future of Australia’s digital economy. The Greens’ plan for a digital economy includes a commitment to: Immediately undertake a multi-party inquiry into the most cost-effective and future-proof architecture for the NBN
This is critical to ensure the future of Australia’s digital economy. The Greens’ plan for a digital economy includes a commitment to: Immediately undertake a multi-party inquiry into the most cost-effective and future-proof architecture for the NBN Continue to fight against any legislation that reduces online security, safety or privacy
The Greens’ plan for a digital economy includes a commitment to: Immediately undertake a multi-party inquiry into the most cost-effective and future-proof architecture for the NBN Continue to fight against any legislation that reduces online security, safety or privacy Overturn the expensive and intrusive yet ineffective mandatory data retention scheme
Continue to fight against any legislation that reduces online security, safety or privacy Overturn the expensive and intrusive yet ineffective mandatory data retention scheme Introduce a Digital Rights Commissioner to advocate for the online security, safety and privacy of all Australians, and advise legislators and public servants on the impacts of proposed and existing laws on security, safety and privacy online
Overturn the expensive and intrusive yet ineffective mandatory data retention scheme Introduce a Digital Rights Commissioner to advocate for the online security, safety and privacy of all Australians, and advise legislators and public servants on the impacts of proposed and existing laws on security, safety and privacy online YOUR RIGHTS ONLINE
Introduce a Digital Rights Commissioner to advocate for the online security, safety and privacy of all Australians, and advise legislators and public servants on the impacts of proposed and existing laws on security, safety and privacy online YOUR RIGHTS ONLINE The Greens fought to prevent the introduction of the mandatory data retention legislation, and have opposed measures that make the Internet less open, less secure, and less free, or intrudes on individual privacy.
YOUR RIGHTS ONLINE The Greens fought to prevent the introduction of the mandatory data retention legislation, and have opposed measures that make the Internet less open, less secure, and less free, or intrudes on individual privacy. With both Liberal and Labor legislating away our online rights and freedoms, the Greens have called for a Digital Rights Commissioner to scrutinise government legislation, policy and procedures.
The Greens fought to prevent the introduction of the mandatory data retention legislation, and have opposed measures that make the Internet less open, less secure, and less free, or intrudes on individual privacy. With both Liberal and Labor legislating away our online rights and freedoms, the Greens have called for a Digital Rights Commissioner to scrutinise government legislation, policy and procedures. STANDING UP FOR SMALL BUSINESS
With both Liberal and Labor legislating away our online rights and freedoms, the Greens have called for a Digital Rights Commissioner to scrutinise government legislation, policy and procedures. STANDING UP FOR SMALL BUSINESS The Greens will always stand up for small business against the big endof town.
STANDING UP FOR SMALL BUSINESS The Greens will always stand up for small business against the big endof town. There are over 2 million small businesses operating in Australia.
The Greens will always stand up for small business against the big endof town. There are over 2 million small businesses operating in Australia. In fact, around 97% of all businesses in Australia are small businesses.
There are over 2 million small businesses operating in Australia. In fact, around 97% of all businesses in Australia are small businesses. Small business also provides nearly 5 million Australians with a job – that's around 44% of our entire workforce.
In fact, around 97% of all businesses in Australia are small businesses. Small business also provides nearly 5 million Australians with a job – that's around 44% of our entire workforce. Small businesses play a vital role in the economy, providing jobs to almost half the workforce and playing a part in localcommunities in a way big business never can.
Small business also provides nearly 5 million Australians with a job – that's around 44% of our entire workforce. Small businesses play a vital role in the economy, providing jobs to almost half the workforce and playing a part in localcommunities in a way big business never can. The Greens know the burden and risk that many people take on when they establish a business.
Small businesses play a vital role in the economy, providing jobs to almost half the workforce and playing a part in localcommunities in a way big business never can. The Greens know the burden and risk that many people take on when they establish a business. With just over one in ten small businesses closing every year, we know it's tough for this sector.
The Greens know the burden and risk that many people take on when they establish a business. With just over one in ten small businesses closing every year, we know it's tough for this sector. The Greens’ plan to stand up for small business includes a commitment to:Continue to fight for market fairness through implementation of an Effects Test
With just over one in ten small businesses closing every year, we know it's tough for this sector. The Greens’ plan to stand up for small business includes a commitment to:Continue to fight for market fairness through implementation of an Effects Test Relieve small business operators of the administrative burden of acting as an agent for employee superannuation funds
The Greens’ plan to stand up for small business includes a commitment to:Continue to fight for market fairness through implementation of an Effects Test Relieve small business operators of the administrative burden of acting as an agent for employee superannuation funds Work to restore the loss-carry-back provision, axed by the Abbott-Turnbull Government, to help small business through good times and bad
Relieve small business operators of the administrative burden of acting as an agent for employee superannuation funds Work to restore the loss-carry-back provision, axed by the Abbott-Turnbull Government, to help small business through good times and bad Increase the small business entity turnover threshold from an annual turnover of no more than $2 million per annum, to an annual turnover of no more than $10 million per annum, to better reflect what can be regarded as small in today’s international marketplace
Work to restore the loss-carry-back provision, axed by the Abbott-Turnbull Government, to help small business through good times and bad Increase the small business entity turnover threshold from an annual turnover of no more than $2 million per annum, to an annual turnover of no more than $10 million per annum, to better reflect what can be regarded as small in today’s international marketplace Extend the increase in the instant asset write-off threshold, and increase the threshold for GST registration
Increase the small business entity turnover threshold from an annual turnover of no more than $2 million per annum, to an annual turnover of no more than $10 million per annum, to better reflect what can be regarded as small in today’s international marketplace Extend the increase in the instant asset write-off threshold, and increase the threshold for GST registration Support small business with a package of mental health programs,
Extend the increase in the instant asset write-off threshold, and increase the threshold for GST registration Support small business with a package of mental health programs, encourage take up of renewables in Australian businesses
Support small business with a package of mental health programs, encourage take up of renewables in Australian businesses Reform the VET sector to ensure small businesses can employ the skills they need to succeed
encourage take up of renewables in Australian businesses Reform the VET sector to ensure small businesses can employ the skills they need to succeed WORKING TO LIVE, NOT LIVING TO WORK
Reform the VET sector to ensure small businesses can employ the skills they need to succeed WORKING TO LIVE, NOT LIVING TO WORK Job insecurity and time pressure are on the rise.
WORKING TO LIVE, NOT LIVING TO WORK Job insecurity and time pressure are on the rise. Workplace laws should let people have a secure job, a good balancebetween working, personal and family life, and protect people’s rights at work.
Job insecurity and time pressure are on the rise. Workplace laws should let people have a secure job, a good balancebetween working, personal and family life, and protect people’s rights at work. In a generous and caring society like ours, supporting every employee to balance their caring and personal responsibilities with paid employment should be at the heart of our workplace laws.
Workplace laws should let people have a secure job, a good balancebetween working, personal and family life, and protect people’s rights at work. In a generous and caring society like ours, supporting every employee to balance their caring and personal responsibilities with paid employment should be at the heart of our workplace laws. We need proper paid parental leave, which enables mums and dads to have more paid time off with their newborns, not less.
In a generous and caring society like ours, supporting every employee to balance their caring and personal responsibilities with paid employment should be at the heart of our workplace laws. We need proper paid parental leave, which enables mums and dads to have more paid time off with their newborns, not less. We need more secure work, underpinned by guarantees such as regular and predictable hours and pay, access to paid leave and other entitlements
We need proper paid parental leave, which enables mums and dads to have more paid time off with their newborns, not less. We need more secure work, underpinned by guarantees such as regular and predictable hours and pay, access to paid leave and other entitlements And we need representative workplaces, that reflect the diversity of Australian society and that everyone should have equal access to meaningful paid employment.
We need more secure work, underpinned by guarantees such as regular and predictable hours and pay, access to paid leave and other entitlements And we need representative workplaces, that reflect the diversity of Australian society and that everyone should have equal access to meaningful paid employment. The Greens’ plan to put people back at the centre of workplace laws includes a commitment to:Legislate to give people who have been in their job for 12 months enforceable rights to request flexible working arrangements, including thenumber of hours they work, the scheduling of those hours and the location of work
And we need representative workplaces, that reflect the diversity of Australian society and that everyone should have equal access to meaningful paid employment. The Greens’ plan to put people back at the centre of workplace laws includes a commitment to:Legislate to give people who have been in their job for 12 months enforceable rights to request flexible working arrangements, including thenumber of hours they work, the scheduling of those hours and the location of work Legislate to protect penalty rates and the weekend
The Greens’ plan to put people back at the centre of workplace laws includes a commitment to:Legislate to give people who have been in their job for 12 months enforceable rights to request flexible working arrangements, including thenumber of hours they work, the scheduling of those hours and the location of work Legislate to protect penalty rates and the weekend Strengthen existing provisions for carers, to make sure people have the flexibility they need to care for their loved ones
Legislate to protect penalty rates and the weekend Strengthen existing provisions for carers, to make sure people have the flexibility they need to care for their loved ones Legislate for more secure work, including pathways for casual employees into more secure work, and allowing unions and employer organisations to make applications to the Fair Work Commission for ‘secure employment orders’ on a sector or industry-wide basis
Strengthen existing provisions for carers, to make sure people have the flexibility they need to care for their loved ones Legislate for more secure work, including pathways for casual employees into more secure work, and allowing unions and employer organisations to make applications to the Fair Work Commission for ‘secure employment orders’ on a sector or industry-wide basis Legislate to require the Australian Public Service to double the representation of people with a disability and people from non-English speaking backgrounds within the public service by 2018
Legislate for more secure work, including pathways for casual employees into more secure work, and allowing unions and employer organisations to make applications to the Fair Work Commission for ‘secure employment orders’ on a sector or industry-wide basis Legislate to require the Australian Public Service to double the representation of people with a disability and people from non-English speaking backgrounds within the public service by 2018 Oppose any return to WorkChoices
Legislate to require the Australian Public Service to double the representation of people with a disability and people from non-English speaking backgrounds within the public service by 2018 Oppose any return to WorkChoices PROTECTING WEEKEND PENALTY RATES
Oppose any return to WorkChoices PROTECTING WEEKEND PENALTY RATES Many thousands of Australians depending on weekend rates of pay to make ends meet.
PROTECTING WEEKEND PENALTY RATES Many thousands of Australians depending on weekend rates of pay to make ends meet. Many young people in particular depend on weekend rates to support themselves, including while they study.
Many thousands of Australians depending on weekend rates of pay to make ends meet. Many young people in particular depend on weekend rates to support themselves, including while they study. Young people are already facing unaffordable housing, insecure work and low levels of student assistance, so cutting weekend rates would place them under immense pressure.
Many young people in particular depend on weekend rates to support themselves, including while they study. Young people are already facing unaffordable housing, insecure work and low levels of student assistance, so cutting weekend rates would place them under immense pressure. It is time that people have certainty about the future of their weekend rates.
Young people are already facing unaffordable housing, insecure work and low levels of student assistance, so cutting weekend rates would place them under immense pressure. It is time that people have certainty about the future of their weekend rates. It is time to ensure people’s weekend rates are protected by law.
It is time that people have certainty about the future of their weekend rates. It is time to ensure people’s weekend rates are protected by law. Labor talks tough on penalty rates, yet they have committed to joining the Liberals in accepting weekend penalty rates being cut should the Fair Work Commission hit Sunday rates of pay.
It is time to ensure people’s weekend rates are protected by law. Labor talks tough on penalty rates, yet they have committed to joining the Liberals in accepting weekend penalty rates being cut should the Fair Work Commission hit Sunday rates of pay. The Greens are the only party that will legislate to protect weekend rates for the hundreds of thousands of Australians who depend on them.
Labor talks tough on penalty rates, yet they have committed to joining the Liberals in accepting weekend penalty rates being cut should the Fair Work Commission hit Sunday rates of pay. The Greens are the only party that will legislate to protect weekend rates for the hundreds of thousands of Australians who depend on them. GREENING THE BUDGET
The Greens are the only party that will legislate to protect weekend rates for the hundreds of thousands of Australians who depend on them. GREENING THE BUDGET The Greens want an Australia where everyone gets great public education and healthcare, and where we can fund vital nation building infrastructure.
GREENING THE BUDGET The Greens want an Australia where everyone gets great public education and healthcare, and where we can fund vital nation building infrastructure. This means being upfront about growing our revenue base by getting rid of unfair tax breaks, asking the very wealthy to pay more and directing investment into productive areas of the economy.
The Greens want an Australia where everyone gets great public education and healthcare, and where we can fund vital nation building infrastructure. This means being upfront about growing our revenue base by getting rid of unfair tax breaks, asking the very wealthy to pay more and directing investment into productive areas of the economy. It’s time to grow the new economy, using clean energy to generate sustainable jobs and income for the future.
This means being upfront about growing our revenue base by getting rid of unfair tax breaks, asking the very wealthy to pay more and directing investment into productive areas of the economy. It’s time to grow the new economy, using clean energy to generate sustainable jobs and income for the future. That means we need to stop treating debt like a four letter word.
It’s time to grow the new economy, using clean energy to generate sustainable jobs and income for the future. That means we need to stop treating debt like a four letter word. Borrowing now so you’ve got a productive asset in the future makes for a worthwhile investment.
That means we need to stop treating debt like a four letter word. Borrowing now so you’ve got a productive asset in the future makes for a worthwhile investment. The Greens have outlined a policy platform that has been fully costed by the Parliamentary Budget Office and fully funded by announced savings and new revenue.
Borrowing now so you’ve got a productive asset in the future makes for a worthwhile investment. The Greens have outlined a policy platform that has been fully costed by the Parliamentary Budget Office and fully funded by announced savings and new revenue. Our platform is underpinned by sound economic management principles.
The Greens have outlined a policy platform that has been fully costed by the Parliamentary Budget Office and fully funded by announced savings and new revenue. Our platform is underpinned by sound economic management principles. RAISE THE REVENUE WE NEED SO THAT EVERYONE CAN GET WORLDCLASS PUBLIC HEALTH CARE, EDUCATION & SERVICES AND SOWE CAN GROW THE NEW ECONOMY
Our platform is underpinned by sound economic management principles. RAISE THE REVENUE WE NEED SO THAT EVERYONE CAN GET WORLDCLASS PUBLIC HEALTH CARE, EDUCATION & SERVICES AND SOWE CAN GROW THE NEW ECONOMY We will restore government revenue to around 26% of GDP, the same level as under John Howard, within the next 4 years primarily by reforming unfair tax breaks such as the diesel fuel rebate for miners, superannuation tax concessions, capital gains tax concessions and negative gearing for new properties.
RAISE THE REVENUE WE NEED SO THAT EVERYONE CAN GET WORLDCLASS PUBLIC HEALTH CARE, EDUCATION & SERVICES AND SOWE CAN GROW THE NEW ECONOMY We will restore government revenue to around 26% of GDP, the same level as under John Howard, within the next 4 years primarily by reforming unfair tax breaks such as the diesel fuel rebate for miners, superannuation tax concessions, capital gains tax concessions and negative gearing for new properties. We will oppose new taxes that increase inequality, like lifting the GST, and support new taxes on environmental harms, such as carbon pollution, and new taxes that tackle inequality, like a new marginal tax rate for millionaires.
We will restore government revenue to around 26% of GDP, the same level as under John Howard, within the next 4 years primarily by reforming unfair tax breaks such as the diesel fuel rebate for miners, superannuation tax concessions, capital gains tax concessions and negative gearing for new properties. We will oppose new taxes that increase inequality, like lifting the GST, and support new taxes on environmental harms, such as carbon pollution, and new taxes that tackle inequality, like a new marginal tax rate for millionaires. Green a growing economy
We will oppose new taxes that increase inequality, like lifting the GST, and support new taxes on environmental harms, such as carbon pollution, and new taxes that tackle inequality, like a new marginal tax rate for millionaires. Green a growing economy We will seek to grow key sectors of the economy including advanced manufacturing, education and services, tourism, agriculture and clean energy.
Green a growing economy We will seek to grow key sectors of the economy including advanced manufacturing, education and services, tourism, agriculture and clean energy. We will aim for 15 year growth targets for some sectors, for example our target of 90% renewable energy by 2030.
We will seek to grow key sectors of the economy including advanced manufacturing, education and services, tourism, agriculture and clean energy. We will aim for 15 year growth targets for some sectors, for example our target of 90% renewable energy by 2030. We will decouple growth from pollution and continue to push for a better way of measuring the country’s wellbeing.
We will aim for 15 year growth targets for some sectors, for example our target of 90% renewable energy by 2030. We will decouple growth from pollution and continue to push for a better way of measuring the country’s wellbeing. Get money moving
We will decouple growth from pollution and continue to push for a better way of measuring the country’s wellbeing. Get money moving Instead of having public money tied up in unproductive areas, like unfair tax breaks or inflating the real estate market, money should be put to work to build the new economy
Get money moving Instead of having public money tied up in unproductive areas, like unfair tax breaks or inflating the real estate market, money should be put to work to build the new economy We also need to borrow sensibly to fund the infrastructure we need.
Instead of having public money tied up in unproductive areas, like unfair tax breaks or inflating the real estate market, money should be put to work to build the new economy We also need to borrow sensibly to fund the infrastructure we need. There is greater scope for government debt to fund infrastructure and productive capital such as public transport, renewable energy and getting freight on to rail.
We also need to borrow sensibly to fund the infrastructure we need. There is greater scope for government debt to fund infrastructure and productive capital such as public transport, renewable energy and getting freight on to rail. Grow the new economy and restorerevenue before returning to surplus
There is greater scope for government debt to fund infrastructure and productive capital such as public transport, renewable energy and getting freight on to rail. Grow the new economy and restorerevenue before returning to surplus The question is not whether we are in deficit or surplus, the question is whether any surplus has been fairly achieved and whether any deficit is sustainable.
Grow the new economy and restorerevenue before returning to surplus The question is not whether we are in deficit or surplus, the question is whether any surplus has been fairly achieved and whether any deficit is sustainable. As we grow the new economy any deficits should be kept to around 3% GDP.
The question is not whether we are in deficit or surplus, the question is whether any surplus has been fairly achieved and whether any deficit is sustainable. As we grow the new economy any deficits should be kept to around 3% GDP. To ensure a better national conversation about debt and deficit, government borrowings for capital works should also be accounted for in a separate set of acccounts.
As we grow the new economy any deficits should be kept to around 3% GDP. To ensure a better national conversation about debt and deficit, government borrowings for capital works should also be accounted for in a separate set of acccounts. Budgets should reduce inequality
To ensure a better national conversation about debt and deficit, government borrowings for capital works should also be accounted for in a separate set of acccounts. Budgets should reduce inequality A key role of government is to reduce inequality, and Budgets are an important part of that task.
Budgets should reduce inequality A key role of government is to reduce inequality, and Budgets are an important part of that task. Budgets should be accompanied by an ‘inequality impact’ statement, which shows how the Budget will reduce inequality in Australia.
A key role of government is to reduce inequality, and Budgets are an important part of that task. Budgets should be accompanied by an ‘inequality impact’ statement, which shows how the Budget will reduce inequality in Australia. Investing in our schools and TAFEs: opportunity, equity and innovation
Budgets should be accompanied by an ‘inequality impact’ statement, which shows how the Budget will reduce inequality in Australia. Investing in our schools and TAFEs: opportunity, equity and innovation Labor wants your child to be given the same chance to succeed at school as any other child in the country.
Investing in our schools and TAFEs: opportunity, equity and innovation Labor wants your child to be given the same chance to succeed at school as any other child in the country. So our policy is school funding should go where it is most needed — to ensure the best education outcome for all Australian kids.
Labor wants your child to be given the same chance to succeed at school as any other child in the country. So our policy is school funding should go where it is most needed — to ensure the best education outcome for all Australian kids. POSITIVE POLICY
So our policy is school funding should go where it is most needed — to ensure the best education outcome for all Australian kids. POSITIVE POLICY Your Child. Our Future. Full Gonski And More. Needs Based School Funding.
POSITIVE POLICY Your Child. Our Future. Full Gonski And More. Needs Based School Funding. Improving education is the key to opportunity, to innovation and to the future economic and social prosperity of our nation.
Your Child. Our Future. Full Gonski And More. Needs Based School Funding. Improving education is the key to opportunity, to innovation and to the future economic and social prosperity of our nation. No matter what their background, no matter where they live - city, suburb or in the regions – no matter what type of school they go to – Government, Catholic or Independent, Labor wants every child to have the same chance of succeeding at school, and in life, as any other child in the country.
Improving education is the key to opportunity, to innovation and to the future economic and social prosperity of our nation. No matter what their background, no matter where they live - city, suburb or in the regions – no matter what type of school they go to – Government, Catholic or Independent, Labor wants every child to have the same chance of succeeding at school, and in life, as any other child in the country. Additional school funding is an investment, and we want to see the best possible return for every student, and as a country.
No matter what their background, no matter where they live - city, suburb or in the regions – no matter what type of school they go to – Government, Catholic or Independent, Labor wants every child to have the same chance of succeeding at school, and in life, as any other child in the country. Additional school funding is an investment, and we want to see the best possible return for every student, and as a country. Labor is putting education at the centre of our positive program for government.
Additional school funding is an investment, and we want to see the best possible return for every student, and as a country. Labor is putting education at the centre of our positive program for government. For the Prime Minister to talk about innovation while he is cutting funding to schools, TAFE and universities is just that – nothing but talk.
Labor is putting education at the centre of our positive program for government. For the Prime Minister to talk about innovation while he is cutting funding to schools, TAFE and universities is just that – nothing but talk. Labor’s education plan will drive innovation and opportunity by improving education outcomes for all Australian students.
For the Prime Minister to talk about innovation while he is cutting funding to schools, TAFE and universities is just that – nothing but talk. Labor’s education plan will drive innovation and opportunity by improving education outcomes for all Australian students. Your Child.
Labor’s education plan will drive innovation and opportunity by improving education outcomes for all Australian students. Your Child. Our Future will put needs-based funding permanently at the heart of our school system – so every student in every school will get the support they need to achieve their best.
Your Child. Our Future will put needs-based funding permanently at the heart of our school system – so every student in every school will get the support they need to achieve their best. Labor’s plan will deliver: More one-on-one support and attention for every student
Our Future will put needs-based funding permanently at the heart of our school system – so every student in every school will get the support they need to achieve their best. Labor’s plan will deliver: More one-on-one support and attention for every student Early intervention programs in every school, so that students don’t fall behind
Labor’s plan will deliver: More one-on-one support and attention for every student Early intervention programs in every school, so that students don’t fall behind Remedial literacy and numeracy support in every school
Early intervention programs in every school, so that students don’t fall behind Remedial literacy and numeracy support in every school Extension classes to challenge students that are excelling in class
Remedial literacy and numeracy support in every school Extension classes to challenge students that are excelling in class Increased Year 12 completion through more alternative and vocational pathways, so all students leave school with the skills they need for jobs in the modern economy
Extension classes to challenge students that are excelling in class Increased Year 12 completion through more alternative and vocational pathways, so all students leave school with the skills they need for jobs in the modern economy Access to specialist allied health support – like speech and occupational therapists
Increased Year 12 completion through more alternative and vocational pathways, so all students leave school with the skills they need for jobs in the modern economy Access to specialist allied health support – like speech and occupational therapists A focus on evidence based teaching and learning to make sure our schools do more of what works, and less of what doesn’t
Access to specialist allied health support – like speech and occupational therapists A focus on evidence based teaching and learning to make sure our schools do more of what works, and less of what doesn’t More subject choices
A focus on evidence based teaching and learning to make sure our schools do more of what works, and less of what doesn’t More subject choices More extra-curricular activities
More subject choices More extra-curricular activities The choice is simple: Labor believes in investing in every Australian student to give them the opportunity to reach their potential, the Liberals will just continue with a broken and unfair system that leaves most Australian kids unprepared for the future.
More extra-curricular activities The choice is simple: Labor believes in investing in every Australian student to give them the opportunity to reach their potential, the Liberals will just continue with a broken and unfair system that leaves most Australian kids unprepared for the future. Where they are being properly delivered, needs-based school reforms are already making a big difference in our classrooms – improving results and changing lives.
The choice is simple: Labor believes in investing in every Australian student to give them the opportunity to reach their potential, the Liberals will just continue with a broken and unfair system that leaves most Australian kids unprepared for the future. Where they are being properly delivered, needs-based school reforms are already making a big difference in our classrooms – improving results and changing lives. They are simply too important to abandon.
Where they are being properly delivered, needs-based school reforms are already making a big difference in our classrooms – improving results and changing lives. They are simply too important to abandon. To deliver an education system that provides students with the skills they need for the jobs of the future, Labor will implement the Gonski agreements on time and in full and reverse Malcolm Turnbull’s cuts.
They are simply too important to abandon. To deliver an education system that provides students with the skills they need for the jobs of the future, Labor will implement the Gonski agreements on time and in full and reverse Malcolm Turnbull’s cuts. POSITIVE POLICY
To deliver an education system that provides students with the skills they need for the jobs of the future, Labor will implement the Gonski agreements on time and in full and reverse Malcolm Turnbull’s cuts. POSITIVE POLICY Your Child. Our Future: Support for Students with Disability
POSITIVE POLICY Your Child. Our Future: Support for Students with Disability Better Support For Students With Disability and Additional Learning Needs
Your Child. Our Future: Support for Students with Disability Better Support For Students With Disability and Additional Learning Needs All students – including students with disability – deserve a great education.
Better Support For Students With Disability and Additional Learning Needs All students – including students with disability – deserve a great education. When students with disability do not have the right support, it not only impacts their learning, but can make it difficult for teachers to meet the needs of the class as a whole.
All students – including students with disability – deserve a great education. When students with disability do not have the right support, it not only impacts their learning, but can make it difficult for teachers to meet the needs of the class as a whole. A Shorten Labor Government will deliver better support for students with disability, so they can reach their potential and succeed at school.
When students with disability do not have the right support, it not only impacts their learning, but can make it difficult for teachers to meet the needs of the class as a whole. A Shorten Labor Government will deliver better support for students with disability, so they can reach their potential and succeed at school. The Your Child. Our Future plan will provide $570 million in additional support for students with disability and additional learning needs by 2019, compared to the Liberals.
A Shorten Labor Government will deliver better support for students with disability, so they can reach their potential and succeed at school. The Your Child. Our Future plan will provide $570 million in additional support for students with disability and additional learning needs by 2019, compared to the Liberals. This will make a real difference, and will mean more allied health support – such as speech pathologists or occupational therapists, more individual attention, and more early intervention.
The Your Child. Our Future plan will provide $570 million in additional support for students with disability and additional learning needs by 2019, compared to the Liberals. This will make a real difference, and will mean more allied health support – such as speech pathologists or occupational therapists, more individual attention, and more early intervention. Autism Hubs and Dyslexia-Friendly Schools
This will make a real difference, and will mean more allied health support – such as speech pathologists or occupational therapists, more individual attention, and more early intervention. Autism Hubs and Dyslexia-Friendly Schools Labor’s plan will build the capacity of schools to meet individual student needs, including through establishing Autism Hubs in each State and Territory.
Autism Hubs and Dyslexia-Friendly Schools Labor’s plan will build the capacity of schools to meet individual student needs, including through establishing Autism Hubs in each State and Territory. Autism Hubs will provide advice on the most effective and inclusive ways to help students with autism, deliver professional development and in-class coaching for teachers, as well as link parents and families to health and specialist services in the community.
Labor’s plan will build the capacity of schools to meet individual student needs, including through establishing Autism Hubs in each State and Territory. Autism Hubs will provide advice on the most effective and inclusive ways to help students with autism, deliver professional development and in-class coaching for teachers, as well as link parents and families to health and specialist services in the community. A network of Dyslexia Friendly Schools will be created across Australia, with participating schools certified for their capacity to deliver best-practice programs in inclusive education.
Autism Hubs will provide advice on the most effective and inclusive ways to help students with autism, deliver professional development and in-class coaching for teachers, as well as link parents and families to health and specialist services in the community. A network of Dyslexia Friendly Schools will be created across Australia, with participating schools certified for their capacity to deliver best-practice programs in inclusive education. Tackling bullying
A network of Dyslexia Friendly Schools will be created across Australia, with participating schools certified for their capacity to deliver best-practice programs in inclusive education. Tackling bullying No-one deserves to be bullied and to miss out on educational opportunities because they are different.
Tackling bullying No-one deserves to be bullied and to miss out on educational opportunities because they are different. Students with disability are up to three times more likely to be bullied than their peers.
No-one deserves to be bullied and to miss out on educational opportunities because they are different. Students with disability are up to three times more likely to be bullied than their peers. Labor will establish a national approach to reducing the bullying of students with disability, and will make sure every school has anti-bullying strategies in place that protect students with disability.
Students with disability are up to three times more likely to be bullied than their peers. Labor will establish a national approach to reducing the bullying of students with disability, and will make sure every school has anti-bullying strategies in place that protect students with disability. School upgrades and learning technology
Labor will establish a national approach to reducing the bullying of students with disability, and will make sure every school has anti-bullying strategies in place that protect students with disability. School upgrades and learning technology Labor’s plan will ensure more students with disability will get the chance to participate fully in learning and school activities, by supporting school communities so they can purchase assistive technology and improve school buildings.
School upgrades and learning technology Labor’s plan will ensure more students with disability will get the chance to participate fully in learning and school activities, by supporting school communities so they can purchase assistive technology and improve school buildings. Labor will invest $30 million so that from 2017: At least 3,000 grants of up to $5,000 will be available for schools to invest in equipment and technology to support learning for students with disability.
Labor’s plan will ensure more students with disability will get the chance to participate fully in learning and school activities, by supporting school communities so they can purchase assistive technology and improve school buildings. Labor will invest $30 million so that from 2017: At least 3,000 grants of up to $5,000 will be available for schools to invest in equipment and technology to support learning for students with disability. At least 500 grants of up to $30,000 will be available for minor capital works so students can access school facilities and be properly included in school activities.
Labor will invest $30 million so that from 2017: At least 3,000 grants of up to $5,000 will be available for schools to invest in equipment and technology to support learning for students with disability. At least 500 grants of up to $30,000 will be available for minor capital works so students can access school facilities and be properly included in school activities. Boosting teacher skills and the curriculum
At least 500 grants of up to $30,000 will be available for minor capital works so students can access school facilities and be properly included in school activities. Boosting teacher skills and the curriculum More teachers will be supported to become experts in supporting students with disability and extra learning needs, with Labor investing $40 million for up to 2,000 teachers to complete a Masters in Inclusive Education.
Boosting teacher skills and the curriculum More teachers will be supported to become experts in supporting students with disability and extra learning needs, with Labor investing $40 million for up to 2,000 teachers to complete a Masters in Inclusive Education. The development of a new curriculum for students with disability will be fast-tracked so students with disability get the same learning opportunities as their peers.
More teachers will be supported to become experts in supporting students with disability and extra learning needs, with Labor investing $40 million for up to 2,000 teachers to complete a Masters in Inclusive Education. The development of a new curriculum for students with disability will be fast-tracked so students with disability get the same learning opportunities as their peers. POSITIVE POLICY
The development of a new curriculum for students with disability will be fast-tracked so students with disability get the same learning opportunities as their peers. POSITIVE POLICY Your Child, Our Future. Non-Govt School funding support
POSITIVE POLICY Your Child, Our Future. Non-Govt School funding support Labor has announced that as part of the “Your Child. Our Future” plan, a Labor Government will provide $82 million to Independent schools associations and Catholic education commissions for the duration of the original six-year Gonski agreements.
Your Child, Our Future. Non-Govt School funding support Labor has announced that as part of the “Your Child. Our Future” plan, a Labor Government will provide $82 million to Independent schools associations and Catholic education commissions for the duration of the original six-year Gonski agreements. This means an additional two years of funding, and honours the agreements Labor entered into with the non-government schools sectors.
Labor has announced that as part of the “Your Child. Our Future” plan, a Labor Government will provide $82 million to Independent schools associations and Catholic education commissions for the duration of the original six-year Gonski agreements. This means an additional two years of funding, and honours the agreements Labor entered into with the non-government schools sectors. This will be called the Teaching and Learning Support Program.
This means an additional two years of funding, and honours the agreements Labor entered into with the non-government schools sectors. This will be called the Teaching and Learning Support Program. The funding will allow the non-government school associations to continue important work to implement the Gonski reforms such as: Provide better coaching for teachers
This will be called the Teaching and Learning Support Program. The funding will allow the non-government school associations to continue important work to implement the Gonski reforms such as: Provide better coaching for teachers Establishing centres of excellence for the teaching of STEM
The funding will allow the non-government school associations to continue important work to implement the Gonski reforms such as: Provide better coaching for teachers Establishing centres of excellence for the teaching of STEM Employing School Leadership Consultants – to work with principals to make sure schools have a school improvement agenda in place to lift student outcomes
Establishing centres of excellence for the teaching of STEM Employing School Leadership Consultants – to work with principals to make sure schools have a school improvement agenda in place to lift student outcomes Supporting schools to implement the Australian Curriculum;
Employing School Leadership Consultants – to work with principals to make sure schools have a school improvement agenda in place to lift student outcomes Supporting schools to implement the Australian Curriculum; Best practice professional development to support Indigenous Independent Schools
Supporting schools to implement the Australian Curriculum; Best practice professional development to support Indigenous Independent Schools Of course, we will expect transparency and accountability for this funding – with clear links to improved teaching and learning.
Best practice professional development to support Indigenous Independent Schools Of course, we will expect transparency and accountability for this funding – with clear links to improved teaching and learning. POSITIVE POLICY
Of course, we will expect transparency and accountability for this funding – with clear links to improved teaching and learning. POSITIVE POLICY More Affordable Child Care
POSITIVE POLICY More Affordable Child Care A Shorten Labor Government will deliver child care support that is fairer and will make early education and care more affordable for families.
More Affordable Child Care A Shorten Labor Government will deliver child care support that is fairer and will make early education and care more affordable for families. Our package will give parents the early education and care relief they need now – from 1 January 2017.
A Shorten Labor Government will deliver child care support that is fairer and will make early education and care more affordable for families. Our package will give parents the early education and care relief they need now – from 1 January 2017. Under Labor’s plan: Low and middle income families will benefit from an increase to the Child Care Benefit of 15 per cent.
Our package will give parents the early education and care relief they need now – from 1 January 2017. Under Labor’s plan: Low and middle income families will benefit from an increase to the Child Care Benefit of 15 per cent. Every one of the 813,000 families that rely on the Child Care Benefit will be better off – an increase up to $31 per child per week, or up to $1,627 per year, will provide much needed relief for the family budget.
Under Labor’s plan: Low and middle income families will benefit from an increase to the Child Care Benefit of 15 per cent. Every one of the 813,000 families that rely on the Child Care Benefit will be better off – an increase up to $31 per child per week, or up to $1,627 per year, will provide much needed relief for the family budget. The annual cap on the Child Care Rebate will be increased from $7,500 to $10,000 per child, leaving families up to $2,500 per child per year better off.
Every one of the 813,000 families that rely on the Child Care Benefit will be better off – an increase up to $31 per child per week, or up to $1,627 per year, will provide much needed relief for the family budget. The annual cap on the Child Care Rebate will be increased from $7,500 to $10,000 per child, leaving families up to $2,500 per child per year better off. 107,800 families who would otherwise reach the Child Care Rebate cap this financial year won’t have to choose between paying double fees, or dropping out of the workforce.
The annual cap on the Child Care Rebate will be increased from $7,500 to $10,000 per child, leaving families up to $2,500 per child per year better off. 107,800 families who would otherwise reach the Child Care Rebate cap this financial year won’t have to choose between paying double fees, or dropping out of the workforce. Labor’s plan will take pressure off the family budget, help grow the economy by keeping more parents in work and ensure that all children continue to have access to two days of vital early education.
107,800 families who would otherwise reach the Child Care Rebate cap this financial year won’t have to choose between paying double fees, or dropping out of the workforce. Labor’s plan will take pressure off the family budget, help grow the economy by keeping more parents in work and ensure that all children continue to have access to two days of vital early education. Better early education and care is essential to a growing economy – in the short-term and the long-term.
Labor’s plan will take pressure off the family budget, help grow the economy by keeping more parents in work and ensure that all children continue to have access to two days of vital early education. Better early education and care is essential to a growing economy – in the short-term and the long-term. It’s central to Labor’s plan for fairer growth, real jobs and greater opportunities.
Better early education and care is essential to a growing economy – in the short-term and the long-term. It’s central to Labor’s plan for fairer growth, real jobs and greater opportunities. Families who rely on early education and care need a better deal now - and that's what Labor will deliver.
It’s central to Labor’s plan for fairer growth, real jobs and greater opportunities. Families who rely on early education and care need a better deal now - and that's what Labor will deliver. Labor’s plan also includes: Cracking down on unjustified price increases – New transparency and accountability standards, along with extra powers to investigate unjustified price increases and stop price gouging.
Families who rely on early education and care need a better deal now - and that's what Labor will deliver. Labor’s plan also includes: Cracking down on unjustified price increases – New transparency and accountability standards, along with extra powers to investigate unjustified price increases and stop price gouging. Supporting flexible Family Day Care – Investing an additional $50 million to support improvements to the Family Day Care system, including flexible options for families and enhancing the education, investigation and compliance programs.
Labor’s plan also includes: Cracking down on unjustified price increases – New transparency and accountability standards, along with extra powers to investigate unjustified price increases and stop price gouging. Supporting flexible Family Day Care – Investing an additional $50 million to support improvements to the Family Day Care system, including flexible options for families and enhancing the education, investigation and compliance programs. Better services for Indigenous children and children in remote areas –Increasing support for children in Budget Base Funded Services by 15 per cent, in line with the increase to the Child Care Benefit.
Supporting flexible Family Day Care – Investing an additional $50 million to support improvements to the Family Day Care system, including flexible options for families and enhancing the education, investigation and compliance programs. Better services for Indigenous children and children in remote areas –Increasing support for children in Budget Base Funded Services by 15 per cent, in line with the increase to the Child Care Benefit. Valuing our early education workforce - $150 million investment towards developing the early education workforce – developing a new Early Years’ Workforce Strategy, and establishing a national Educator Professional Development Program.
Better services for Indigenous children and children in remote areas –Increasing support for children in Budget Base Funded Services by 15 per cent, in line with the increase to the Child Care Benefit. Valuing our early education workforce - $150 million investment towards developing the early education workforce – developing a new Early Years’ Workforce Strategy, and establishing a national Educator Professional Development Program. Labor will also make submissions to the Fair Work Commission proceedings in support of professional wages for early childhood educators.
Valuing our early education workforce - $150 million investment towards developing the early education workforce – developing a new Early Years’ Workforce Strategy, and establishing a national Educator Professional Development Program. Labor will also make submissions to the Fair Work Commission proceedings in support of professional wages for early childhood educators. Before the last election, the Liberals promised to make child care more affordable for Australian families.
Labor will also make submissions to the Fair Work Commission proceedings in support of professional wages for early childhood educators. Before the last election, the Liberals promised to make child care more affordable for Australian families. But over the last three years, child care fees have increased by over 20 per cent, and out-of-pocket costs have gone up.
Before the last election, the Liberals promised to make child care more affordable for Australian families. But over the last three years, child care fees have increased by over 20 per cent, and out-of-pocket costs have gone up. According to research by the ANU’s Centre for Social Research and Methods, one in three families would be worse off under the Liberals’ proposed child care changes.
But over the last three years, child care fees have increased by over 20 per cent, and out-of-pocket costs have gone up. According to research by the ANU’s Centre for Social Research and Methods, one in three families would be worse off under the Liberals’ proposed child care changes. Families won’t be worse off under Labor’s changes.
According to research by the ANU’s Centre for Social Research and Methods, one in three families would be worse off under the Liberals’ proposed child care changes. Families won’t be worse off under Labor’s changes. In government, Labor will not proceed with the Liberals’ child care changes in their current form, because of the number of families that will be worse off, the unfair activity test and the impact on vulnerable children.
Families won’t be worse off under Labor’s changes. In government, Labor will not proceed with the Liberals’ child care changes in their current form, because of the number of families that will be worse off, the unfair activity test and the impact on vulnerable children. While we work with experts and the sector to formalise the very best long-term reforms, Labor recognises that families need action and support now – they should not have to wait any longer.
In government, Labor will not proceed with the Liberals’ child care changes in their current form, because of the number of families that will be worse off, the unfair activity test and the impact on vulnerable children. While we work with experts and the sector to formalise the very best long-term reforms, Labor recognises that families need action and support now – they should not have to wait any longer. Labor has a proud history of early education reform, and we are driven to build on this platform.
While we work with experts and the sector to formalise the very best long-term reforms, Labor recognises that families need action and support now – they should not have to wait any longer. Labor has a proud history of early education reform, and we are driven to build on this platform. Early education and care isn’t a form of babysitting – it is critical for parent’s workforce participation and for children’s development.
Labor has a proud history of early education reform, and we are driven to build on this platform. Early education and care isn’t a form of babysitting – it is critical for parent’s workforce participation and for children’s development. Only Labor will put families first.
Early education and care isn’t a form of babysitting – it is critical for parent’s workforce participation and for children’s development. Only Labor will put families first. POSITIVE POLICY
Only Labor will put families first. POSITIVE POLICY A Stronger Vocational Education & Training Sector
POSITIVE POLICY A Stronger Vocational Education & Training Sector A Shorten Labor Government will undertake a comprehensive National Vocational Education and Training Sector Review to build a stronger VET sector and weed out dodgy providers and student rip-offs.
A Stronger Vocational Education & Training Sector A Shorten Labor Government will undertake a comprehensive National Vocational Education and Training Sector Review to build a stronger VET sector and weed out dodgy providers and student rip-offs. Despite its importance to Australia’s social and economic future, Australia’s VET sector is at a crossroads.
A Shorten Labor Government will undertake a comprehensive National Vocational Education and Training Sector Review to build a stronger VET sector and weed out dodgy providers and student rip-offs. Despite its importance to Australia’s social and economic future, Australia’s VET sector is at a crossroads. Costs are increasing but quality is declining, particularly in private courses and states which have experienced funding reductions.
Despite its importance to Australia’s social and economic future, Australia’s VET sector is at a crossroads. Costs are increasing but quality is declining, particularly in private courses and states which have experienced funding reductions. Labor’s review will ensure the VET sector is properly equipped to train Australians for the jobs of the future, proper standards are enforced and the central role of our public TAFE system is recognised.
Costs are increasing but quality is declining, particularly in private courses and states which have experienced funding reductions. Labor’s review will ensure the VET sector is properly equipped to train Australians for the jobs of the future, proper standards are enforced and the central role of our public TAFE system is recognised. Our national skills and training sector used to be the envy of the world – since the election of the Liberal Government it has been significantly damaged by shonks and sharks ripping off vulnerable people.
Labor’s review will ensure the VET sector is properly equipped to train Australians for the jobs of the future, proper standards are enforced and the central role of our public TAFE system is recognised. Our national skills and training sector used to be the envy of the world – since the election of the Liberal Government it has been significantly damaged by shonks and sharks ripping off vulnerable people. People’s livelihoods are being destroyed – and their job prospects ruined.
Our national skills and training sector used to be the envy of the world – since the election of the Liberal Government it has been significantly damaged by shonks and sharks ripping off vulnerable people. People’s livelihoods are being destroyed – and their job prospects ruined. It is a disgrace – and action must be taken.
People’s livelihoods are being destroyed – and their job prospects ruined. It is a disgrace – and action must be taken. Having a strong VET sector is an important part of Labor’s plan to tackle inequality.
It is a disgrace – and action must be taken. Having a strong VET sector is an important part of Labor’s plan to tackle inequality. The vocational education and training sector deserves a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to policy-making to ensure it is fit for the critical task of preparing Australians for the jobs of the future.
Having a strong VET sector is an important part of Labor’s plan to tackle inequality. The vocational education and training sector deserves a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to policy-making to ensure it is fit for the critical task of preparing Australians for the jobs of the future. While schools and universities have had full reviews into funding with the Gonski and Bradley reviews – the vocational education and training sector has been left behind.
The vocational education and training sector deserves a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to policy-making to ensure it is fit for the critical task of preparing Australians for the jobs of the future. While schools and universities have had full reviews into funding with the Gonski and Bradley reviews – the vocational education and training sector has been left behind. The sector has not undergone a full review since the Kangan Report in 1974.
While schools and universities have had full reviews into funding with the Gonski and Bradley reviews – the vocational education and training sector has been left behind. The sector has not undergone a full review since the Kangan Report in 1974. It is time for a full review of the operation of the sector including quality, funding and access.
The sector has not undergone a full review since the Kangan Report in 1974. It is time for a full review of the operation of the sector including quality, funding and access. As new jobs emerge and existing industries go through extensive restructuring the nation will rely on an effective, quality vocational sector to provide the qualifications to enable people to enter the workforce, upskill or retrain.
It is time for a full review of the operation of the sector including quality, funding and access. As new jobs emerge and existing industries go through extensive restructuring the nation will rely on an effective, quality vocational sector to provide the qualifications to enable people to enter the workforce, upskill or retrain. Billions of dollars have been wasted due to the Liberals refusal to act on the escalating VET FEE-HELP crisis with VET FEE-HELP loans escalating from $699 million in 2013 to $1.7 billion in 2014 and is expected to have blown out to over $3 billion for 2015.
As new jobs emerge and existing industries go through extensive restructuring the nation will rely on an effective, quality vocational sector to provide the qualifications to enable people to enter the workforce, upskill or retrain. Billions of dollars have been wasted due to the Liberals refusal to act on the escalating VET FEE-HELP crisis with VET FEE-HELP loans escalating from $699 million in 2013 to $1.7 billion in 2014 and is expected to have blown out to over $3 billion for 2015. To date, Labor has put forward a number of plans to guarantee funding for TAFE and to implement strong and sensible measures to stop the shonks and sharks in the private sector.
Billions of dollars have been wasted due to the Liberals refusal to act on the escalating VET FEE-HELP crisis with VET FEE-HELP loans escalating from $699 million in 2013 to $1.7 billion in 2014 and is expected to have blown out to over $3 billion for 2015. To date, Labor has put forward a number of plans to guarantee funding for TAFE and to implement strong and sensible measures to stop the shonks and sharks in the private sector. This adds to the announcement last year that a Shorten Labor Government would guarantee TAFE funding into the future by working with Premiers and Chief Ministers on a comprehensive National Priority Plan that defines the role of TAFE and places it squarely as the public provider within the VET sector.
To date, Labor has put forward a number of plans to guarantee funding for TAFE and to implement strong and sensible measures to stop the shonks and sharks in the private sector. This adds to the announcement last year that a Shorten Labor Government would guarantee TAFE funding into the future by working with Premiers and Chief Ministers on a comprehensive National Priority Plan that defines the role of TAFE and places it squarely as the public provider within the VET sector. There is abundant evidence that the vocational training sector must be underpinned by a dominant and viable public provider.
This adds to the announcement last year that a Shorten Labor Government would guarantee TAFE funding into the future by working with Premiers and Chief Ministers on a comprehensive National Priority Plan that defines the role of TAFE and places it squarely as the public provider within the VET sector. There is abundant evidence that the vocational training sector must be underpinned by a dominant and viable public provider. Labor is committed to protecting the reputation of the sector, prioritising the outcomes for students and meeting the national need for a well-trained workforce into the future.
There is abundant evidence that the vocational training sector must be underpinned by a dominant and viable public provider. Labor is committed to protecting the reputation of the sector, prioritising the outcomes for students and meeting the national need for a well-trained workforce into the future. POSITIVE POLICY
Labor is committed to protecting the reputation of the sector, prioritising the outcomes for students and meeting the national need for a well-trained workforce into the future. POSITIVE POLICY Computer Coding For Every School
POSITIVE POLICY Computer Coding For Every School Labor believes that coding is the literacy of the 21st Century, and every young Australian should be able to read and write the global language of the digital age.
Computer Coding For Every School Labor believes that coding is the literacy of the 21st Century, and every young Australian should be able to read and write the global language of the digital age. Digital proficiency will be a foundation skill, as important as reading and numeracy.
Labor believes that coding is the literacy of the 21st Century, and every young Australian should be able to read and write the global language of the digital age. Digital proficiency will be a foundation skill, as important as reading and numeracy. It will increasingly determine Australians employment prospects and the opportunities available to them in the workplace.
Digital proficiency will be a foundation skill, as important as reading and numeracy. It will increasingly determine Australians employment prospects and the opportunities available to them in the workplace. The Australian Workforce Productivity Agency predicts that in 2025 there could be an undersupply of qualifications for key ICT occupations, with employment projected to grow between 64 and 72 per cent faster than overall employment growth, and account for around 5 per cent of all employment in 2025.
It will increasingly determine Australians employment prospects and the opportunities available to them in the workplace. The Australian Workforce Productivity Agency predicts that in 2025 there could be an undersupply of qualifications for key ICT occupations, with employment projected to grow between 64 and 72 per cent faster than overall employment growth, and account for around 5 per cent of all employment in 2025. Australia needs to elevate technology to the status of literacy and numeracy in the National Curriculum so that it is taught from the beginning of formal learning by a more coding-literate teaching workforce.
The Australian Workforce Productivity Agency predicts that in 2025 there could be an undersupply of qualifications for key ICT occupations, with employment projected to grow between 64 and 72 per cent faster than overall employment growth, and account for around 5 per cent of all employment in 2025. Australia needs to elevate technology to the status of literacy and numeracy in the National Curriculum so that it is taught from the beginning of formal learning by a more coding-literate teaching workforce. That’s why a Labor Government will ensure that computer programming and digital technologies – coding – is taught in every primary and secondary Australian school, by a teacher who has had the opportunity to receive training in coding.
Australia needs to elevate technology to the status of literacy and numeracy in the National Curriculum so that it is taught from the beginning of formal learning by a more coding-literate teaching workforce. That’s why a Labor Government will ensure that computer programming and digital technologies – coding – is taught in every primary and secondary Australian school, by a teacher who has had the opportunity to receive training in coding. We will work with the states and territories, teaching bodies, school systems and the Australian Curriculum and Reporting Authority (ACARA) to examine ways to lift the status of coding to a core skill that is part of learning from the start of schooling.
That’s why a Labor Government will ensure that computer programming and digital technologies – coding – is taught in every primary and secondary Australian school, by a teacher who has had the opportunity to receive training in coding. We will work with the states and territories, teaching bodies, school systems and the Australian Curriculum and Reporting Authority (ACARA) to examine ways to lift the status of coding to a core skill that is part of learning from the start of schooling. Labor’s plan is that by 2020 computer programming and digital technologies – coding – is taught in every primary and secondary Australian school.
We will work with the states and territories, teaching bodies, school systems and the Australian Curriculum and Reporting Authority (ACARA) to examine ways to lift the status of coding to a core skill that is part of learning from the start of schooling. Labor’s plan is that by 2020 computer programming and digital technologies – coding – is taught in every primary and secondary Australian school. We will also invest $9 million to establish a National Coding in Schools centre (NCIS) so that all teachers in Australia have the opportunity to develop their skills, and every student can have access to exciting ways to learn coding.
Labor’s plan is that by 2020 computer programming and digital technologies – coding – is taught in every primary and secondary Australian school. We will also invest $9 million to establish a National Coding in Schools centre (NCIS) so that all teachers in Australia have the opportunity to develop their skills, and every student can have access to exciting ways to learn coding. NCIS will collaborate and link with industry and experts to develop the materials and content to support coding in schools.
We will also invest $9 million to establish a National Coding in Schools centre (NCIS) so that all teachers in Australia have the opportunity to develop their skills, and every student can have access to exciting ways to learn coding. NCIS will collaborate and link with industry and experts to develop the materials and content to support coding in schools. To ensure teachers and students benefit from cutting edge virtual programs that set students up for success at school and in the workplace NCIS will: Develop and promote innovative teaching of coding in our schools; ensuring teachers in every school gain access to practical hands on training in coding and its integration into the classroom;
NCIS will collaborate and link with industry and experts to develop the materials and content to support coding in schools. To ensure teachers and students benefit from cutting edge virtual programs that set students up for success at school and in the workplace NCIS will: Develop and promote innovative teaching of coding in our schools; ensuring teachers in every school gain access to practical hands on training in coding and its integration into the classroom; Partner with business and industry leaders to connect the teaching of coding in schools to help establish a culture of innovation and creativity while equipping students with the skills that will be in-demand in the future, including hands-on experience;
To ensure teachers and students benefit from cutting edge virtual programs that set students up for success at school and in the workplace NCIS will: Develop and promote innovative teaching of coding in our schools; ensuring teachers in every school gain access to practical hands on training in coding and its integration into the classroom; Partner with business and industry leaders to connect the teaching of coding in schools to help establish a culture of innovation and creativity while equipping students with the skills that will be in-demand in the future, including hands-on experience; Provide ongoing engagement with teachers across the country to support the integration of coding into their teaching with confidence.
Partner with business and industry leaders to connect the teaching of coding in schools to help establish a culture of innovation and creativity while equipping students with the skills that will be in-demand in the future, including hands-on experience; Provide ongoing engagement with teachers across the country to support the integration of coding into their teaching with confidence. As our economy responds to technological change, it is vital all Australians have the skills to be able to participate – to secure good jobs today and well into the future.
Provide ongoing engagement with teachers across the country to support the integration of coding into their teaching with confidence. As our economy responds to technological change, it is vital all Australians have the skills to be able to participate – to secure good jobs today and well into the future. POSITIVE POLICY
As our economy responds to technological change, it is vital all Australians have the skills to be able to participate – to secure good jobs today and well into the future. POSITIVE POLICY Skilling Teachers in STEM - Upskilling Teachers
POSITIVE POLICY Skilling Teachers in STEM - Upskilling Teachers Experts predict that in the years to come, 75 per cent of the fastest growing occupations will require skills in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM).
Skilling Teachers in STEM - Upskilling Teachers Experts predict that in the years to come, 75 per cent of the fastest growing occupations will require skills in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM). But we know that unless students are interested and engaged in STEM at an early age, they are unlikely to pursue a career in those fields.
Experts predict that in the years to come, 75 per cent of the fastest growing occupations will require skills in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM). But we know that unless students are interested and engaged in STEM at an early age, they are unlikely to pursue a career in those fields. Currently this isn’t the case, with more children dropping out of STEM subjects with every additional year of study.
But we know that unless students are interested and engaged in STEM at an early age, they are unlikely to pursue a career in those fields. Currently this isn’t the case, with more children dropping out of STEM subjects with every additional year of study. This partly reflects the way STEM subjects are taught, but it also happens because our teachers aren’t properly supported to engage young peoples’ natural curiosity.
Currently this isn’t the case, with more children dropping out of STEM subjects with every additional year of study. This partly reflects the way STEM subjects are taught, but it also happens because our teachers aren’t properly supported to engage young peoples’ natural curiosity. This is now an urgent issue that requires immediate action.
This partly reflects the way STEM subjects are taught, but it also happens because our teachers aren’t properly supported to engage young peoples’ natural curiosity. This is now an urgent issue that requires immediate action. Nationally, around 60 per cent of IT teachers and 40 per cent of General Science and maths teachers teaching Years 7-10 classes do not have a tertiary qualification in those areas.
This is now an urgent issue that requires immediate action. Nationally, around 60 per cent of IT teachers and 40 per cent of General Science and maths teachers teaching Years 7-10 classes do not have a tertiary qualification in those areas. We need to do more to support Australia’s great teachers so that they can deliver STEM courses in a way that will inspire and engage young Australians.
Nationally, around 60 per cent of IT teachers and 40 per cent of General Science and maths teachers teaching Years 7-10 classes do not have a tertiary qualification in those areas. We need to do more to support Australia’s great teachers so that they can deliver STEM courses in a way that will inspire and engage young Australians. Labor has a two-part plan to upskill teachers as an urgent priority, and create a pipeline of future STEM qualified teachers to join the teaching ranks.
We need to do more to support Australia’s great teachers so that they can deliver STEM courses in a way that will inspire and engage young Australians. Labor has a two-part plan to upskill teachers as an urgent priority, and create a pipeline of future STEM qualified teachers to join the teaching ranks. Labor will establish a five year STEM teacher training fund that will support 5,000 primary and secondary teachers a year to undertake professional development in STEM disciplines.
Labor has a two-part plan to upskill teachers as an urgent priority, and create a pipeline of future STEM qualified teachers to join the teaching ranks. Labor will establish a five year STEM teacher training fund that will support 5,000 primary and secondary teachers a year to undertake professional development in STEM disciplines. Coding and programming will be a key focus of this program.
Labor will establish a five year STEM teacher training fund that will support 5,000 primary and secondary teachers a year to undertake professional development in STEM disciplines. Coding and programming will be a key focus of this program. The training fund will ensure the upskilling of around 25,000 existing STEM teachers in primary and secondary education, with these teachers taking their new skills straight to the classroom.
Coding and programming will be a key focus of this program. The training fund will ensure the upskilling of around 25,000 existing STEM teachers in primary and secondary education, with these teachers taking their new skills straight to the classroom. These grants will back our teachers to do what they do best, with the skills and training they need.
The training fund will ensure the upskilling of around 25,000 existing STEM teachers in primary and secondary education, with these teachers taking their new skills straight to the classroom. These grants will back our teachers to do what they do best, with the skills and training they need. The grants will be flexible and will allow teachers to work with their schools in determining the best form of professional development.
These grants will back our teachers to do what they do best, with the skills and training they need. The grants will be flexible and will allow teachers to work with their schools in determining the best form of professional development. Labor will work with teaching bodies, TAFEs and State Governments to develop criteria for access to the scheme and the eligible courses and uses of the grants.
The grants will be flexible and will allow teachers to work with their schools in determining the best form of professional development. Labor will work with teaching bodies, TAFEs and State Governments to develop criteria for access to the scheme and the eligible courses and uses of the grants. We will invest $127 million in reskilling teachers over four years, kicking off in the 2017 school year.
Labor will work with teaching bodies, TAFEs and State Governments to develop criteria for access to the scheme and the eligible courses and uses of the grants. We will invest $127 million in reskilling teachers over four years, kicking off in the 2017 school year. POSITIVE POLICY
We will invest $127 million in reskilling teachers over four years, kicking off in the 2017 school year. POSITIVE POLICY Girls Into Code
POSITIVE POLICY Girls Into Code Australia has a chronic shortage of women graduating with computer science or coding skills.
Girls Into Code Australia has a chronic shortage of women graduating with computer science or coding skills. Since 2001, the rate of women enrolling in an IT degree has actually fallen from about 1 in 4 to just 1 in 10.
Australia has a chronic shortage of women graduating with computer science or coding skills. Since 2001, the rate of women enrolling in an IT degree has actually fallen from about 1 in 4 to just 1 in 10. Continuing to see women fall behind in IT will limit our capacity for all Australians to capture and embrace the opportunities of the digital economy, let alone meet the projected demand for ICT skills across industry.
Since 2001, the rate of women enrolling in an IT degree has actually fallen from about 1 in 4 to just 1 in 10. Continuing to see women fall behind in IT will limit our capacity for all Australians to capture and embrace the opportunities of the digital economy, let alone meet the projected demand for ICT skills across industry. The lack of diversity will also begin to affect our ability to innovate as a nation.
Continuing to see women fall behind in IT will limit our capacity for all Australians to capture and embrace the opportunities of the digital economy, let alone meet the projected demand for ICT skills across industry. The lack of diversity will also begin to affect our ability to innovate as a nation. On top of that, women could be left out economically, shut out from influential positions in industry and government due to lack of relevant skills and experience.
The lack of diversity will also begin to affect our ability to innovate as a nation. On top of that, women could be left out economically, shut out from influential positions in industry and government due to lack of relevant skills and experience. This will perpetuate the gender gap in Australian IT in which currently: Only 28 per cent of workers in the ICT are women
On top of that, women could be left out economically, shut out from influential positions in industry and government due to lack of relevant skills and experience. This will perpetuate the gender gap in Australian IT in which currently: Only 28 per cent of workers in the ICT are women Only 1 in 5 tech entrepreneurs are women.
This will perpetuate the gender gap in Australian IT in which currently: Only 28 per cent of workers in the ICT are women Only 1 in 5 tech entrepreneurs are women. It is therefore crucial that young women learn to code and consider careers in ICT as early as possible, so that they have a stake in the digital economy of the future.
Only 1 in 5 tech entrepreneurs are women. It is therefore crucial that young women learn to code and consider careers in ICT as early as possible, so that they have a stake in the digital economy of the future. That is why Labor will launch Girls into Code – a $4.5 million grants program to support organisations that promote, encourage and inspire girls to learn code.
It is therefore crucial that young women learn to code and consider careers in ICT as early as possible, so that they have a stake in the digital economy of the future. That is why Labor will launch Girls into Code – a $4.5 million grants program to support organisations that promote, encourage and inspire girls to learn code. Improving rates of participation by women in technology jobs involves capturing girls’ interest early, by providing opportunities for them to experience the creative side of ICT as through Carnegie Mellon’s Alice and MIT’s Scratch initiatives.
That is why Labor will launch Girls into Code – a $4.5 million grants program to support organisations that promote, encourage and inspire girls to learn code. Improving rates of participation by women in technology jobs involves capturing girls’ interest early, by providing opportunities for them to experience the creative side of ICT as through Carnegie Mellon’s Alice and MIT’s Scratch initiatives. It is also important to highlight role models and demonstrate diverse career paths from a young age, while moving away from stereotypes.
Improving rates of participation by women in technology jobs involves capturing girls’ interest early, by providing opportunities for them to experience the creative side of ICT as through Carnegie Mellon’s Alice and MIT’s Scratch initiatives. It is also important to highlight role models and demonstrate diverse career paths from a young age, while moving away from stereotypes. Labor’s Girls into Code grants program will facilitate mentoring and access to role models, connect coding programs to schools, and create opportunities for girls to build up their confidence and showcase their talent in coding and ICT skills.
It is also important to highlight role models and demonstrate diverse career paths from a young age, while moving away from stereotypes. Labor’s Girls into Code grants program will facilitate mentoring and access to role models, connect coding programs to schools, and create opportunities for girls to build up their confidence and showcase their talent in coding and ICT skills. There are a range of organisations and movements that are doing great work delivering engaging and inclusive programs that inspire young women and girls to code, including Code Club Australia, Code Like a Girl, DigiGirlz and Girls Make Games.
Labor’s Girls into Code grants program will facilitate mentoring and access to role models, connect coding programs to schools, and create opportunities for girls to build up their confidence and showcase their talent in coding and ICT skills. There are a range of organisations and movements that are doing great work delivering engaging and inclusive programs that inspire young women and girls to code, including Code Club Australia, Code Like a Girl, DigiGirlz and Girls Make Games. Labor’s Girls into Code will ensure these programs are offered in more places, to more girls so that in the future Australian women are just as equipped to benefit from the jobs of the future as men will be.
There are a range of organisations and movements that are doing great work delivering engaging and inclusive programs that inspire young women and girls to code, including Code Club Australia, Code Like a Girl, DigiGirlz and Girls Make Games. Labor’s Girls into Code will ensure these programs are offered in more places, to more girls so that in the future Australian women are just as equipped to benefit from the jobs of the future as men will be. POSITIVE POLICY
Labor’s Girls into Code will ensure these programs are offered in more places, to more girls so that in the future Australian women are just as equipped to benefit from the jobs of the future as men will be. POSITIVE POLICY National TAFE Funding Guarantee
POSITIVE POLICY National TAFE Funding Guarantee Under the Abbott-Turnbull Government, Australia’s TAFEs are struggling.
National TAFE Funding Guarantee Under the Abbott-Turnbull Government, Australia’s TAFEs are struggling. In the past two years we have seen the closures of TAFEs, reductions in staffing, ever-increasing course costs and unscrupulous private providers and brokers preying on vulnerable people.
Under the Abbott-Turnbull Government, Australia’s TAFEs are struggling. In the past two years we have seen the closures of TAFEs, reductions in staffing, ever-increasing course costs and unscrupulous private providers and brokers preying on vulnerable people. This must not be allowed to continue.
In the past two years we have seen the closures of TAFEs, reductions in staffing, ever-increasing course costs and unscrupulous private providers and brokers preying on vulnerable people. This must not be allowed to continue. TAFE must be backed by governments as it is critical to our future.
This must not be allowed to continue. TAFE must be backed by governments as it is critical to our future. Labor has a plan to back TAFE into the future by developing a comprehensive National Priority Plan that defines the unique role of TAFE as our public provider and delivers on this by working with the states and territories to provide ongoing guaranteed TAFE funding.
TAFE must be backed by governments as it is critical to our future. Labor has a plan to back TAFE into the future by developing a comprehensive National Priority Plan that defines the unique role of TAFE as our public provider and delivers on this by working with the states and territories to provide ongoing guaranteed TAFE funding. TAFE must remain an essential part of Australia’s skills and training sector as it plays a vital role in servicing our regions, industries in transition and disadvantaged groups.
Labor has a plan to back TAFE into the future by developing a comprehensive National Priority Plan that defines the unique role of TAFE as our public provider and delivers on this by working with the states and territories to provide ongoing guaranteed TAFE funding. TAFE must remain an essential part of Australia’s skills and training sector as it plays a vital role in servicing our regions, industries in transition and disadvantaged groups. As the Australian economy changes, the jobs of the future will change.
TAFE must remain an essential part of Australia’s skills and training sector as it plays a vital role in servicing our regions, industries in transition and disadvantaged groups. As the Australian economy changes, the jobs of the future will change. Our trades will involve more technology-based skills, and workers will need training in these skills to be more effective in the workplace and to remain competitive in the employment market.
As the Australian economy changes, the jobs of the future will change. Our trades will involve more technology-based skills, and workers will need training in these skills to be more effective in the workplace and to remain competitive in the employment market. New trades and professions will emerge and require quality training programs and upskilling courses.
Our trades will involve more technology-based skills, and workers will need training in these skills to be more effective in the workplace and to remain competitive in the employment market. New trades and professions will emerge and require quality training programs and upskilling courses. It is therefore absolutely critical that we invest in supporting our national asset – our public TAFE sector.
New trades and professions will emerge and require quality training programs and upskilling courses. It is therefore absolutely critical that we invest in supporting our national asset – our public TAFE sector. There are challenges in the way the vocational educational sector is funded which has led to the decline of the TAFE sector nationally.
It is therefore absolutely critical that we invest in supporting our national asset – our public TAFE sector. There are challenges in the way the vocational educational sector is funded which has led to the decline of the TAFE sector nationally. Over the last year it has become clear that there has been a failure in the market and we have seen the proliferation of opportunistic and sub-standard training providers costing the taxpayers and students millions of dollars.
There are challenges in the way the vocational educational sector is funded which has led to the decline of the TAFE sector nationally. Over the last year it has become clear that there has been a failure in the market and we have seen the proliferation of opportunistic and sub-standard training providers costing the taxpayers and students millions of dollars. This needs to stop.
Over the last year it has become clear that there has been a failure in the market and we have seen the proliferation of opportunistic and sub-standard training providers costing the taxpayers and students millions of dollars. This needs to stop. Under Labor’s plan for TAFE, a Shorten Labor Government will work with Premiers and Chief Ministers on a comprehensive National Priority Plan that defines the unique role of TAFE and places it squarely as the public provider within the VET sector – as the cornerstone of our economy’s need to train and retrain its workforce and deliver on improving the participation, productivity, innovation and growth efforts required for the nation.
This needs to stop. Under Labor’s plan for TAFE, a Shorten Labor Government will work with Premiers and Chief Ministers on a comprehensive National Priority Plan that defines the unique role of TAFE and places it squarely as the public provider within the VET sector – as the cornerstone of our economy’s need to train and retrain its workforce and deliver on improving the participation, productivity, innovation and growth efforts required for the nation. The Turnbull Government has been silent on TAFE and now it appears they are considering abandoning the VET sector completely to the States.
Under Labor’s plan for TAFE, a Shorten Labor Government will work with Premiers and Chief Ministers on a comprehensive National Priority Plan that defines the unique role of TAFE and places it squarely as the public provider within the VET sector – as the cornerstone of our economy’s need to train and retrain its workforce and deliver on improving the participation, productivity, innovation and growth efforts required for the nation. The Turnbull Government has been silent on TAFE and now it appears they are considering abandoning the VET sector completely to the States. This would seriously undermine the national effort required to support growth and jobs through nationally coordinated skills development.
The Turnbull Government has been silent on TAFE and now it appears they are considering abandoning the VET sector completely to the States. This would seriously undermine the national effort required to support growth and jobs through nationally coordinated skills development. In comparison, Labor is firmly committed to a strong TAFE sector.
This would seriously undermine the national effort required to support growth and jobs through nationally coordinated skills development. In comparison, Labor is firmly committed to a strong TAFE sector. We understand how critically important TAFE is to so many students, communities, industries and businesses.
In comparison, Labor is firmly committed to a strong TAFE sector. We understand how critically important TAFE is to so many students, communities, industries and businesses. It is a national asset and we must work across all levels of government to ensure its future.
We understand how critically important TAFE is to so many students, communities, industries and businesses. It is a national asset and we must work across all levels of government to ensure its future. POSITIVE POLICY
It is a national asset and we must work across all levels of government to ensure its future. POSITIVE POLICY New Graduates into STEM Teaching
POSITIVE POLICY New Graduates into STEM Teaching Experts predict that in the years to come, 75 per cent of the fastest growing occupations will require skills in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM).
New Graduates into STEM Teaching Experts predict that in the years to come, 75 per cent of the fastest growing occupations will require skills in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM). But we know that unless students are interested and engaged in STEM at an early age, they are unlikely to pursue a career in those fields.
This partly reflects the way STEM subjects are taught, but it also happens because our teachers aren’t properly supported to engage young peoples’ natural curiosity. This is now an urgent issue that requires immediate action. Labor will provide 25,000 teaching scholarships over five years to new and recent graduates of STEM degrees to encourage them to continue their study and become a STEM teacher.
This is now an urgent issue that requires immediate action. Labor will provide 25,000 teaching scholarships over five years to new and recent graduates of STEM degrees to encourage them to continue their study and become a STEM teacher. A STEM degree is the best background for teaching STEM in our schools, as people with qualifications and a passion for these subjects will be better able to connect with young Australians and engage them in their studies.
Labor will provide 25,000 teaching scholarships over five years to new and recent graduates of STEM degrees to encourage them to continue their study and become a STEM teacher. A STEM degree is the best background for teaching STEM in our schools, as people with qualifications and a passion for these subjects will be better able to connect with young Australians and engage them in their studies. Labor’s Teach STEM initiative will provide an incentive payment to attract more STEM graduates to become teachers.
A STEM degree is the best background for teaching STEM in our schools, as people with qualifications and a passion for these subjects will be better able to connect with young Australians and engage them in their studies. Labor’s Teach STEM initiative will provide an incentive payment to attract more STEM graduates to become teachers. Students that have just completed a STEM degree, or graduated within five years, will be able apply for the incentive payments.
Labor’s Teach STEM initiative will provide an incentive payment to attract more STEM graduates to become teachers. Students that have just completed a STEM degree, or graduated within five years, will be able apply for the incentive payments. The payment of $15,000 will be structured so that $5,000 is paid upon commencement of the course of study, with the remaining paid after their first year in the classroom.
Students that have just completed a STEM degree, or graduated within five years, will be able apply for the incentive payments. The payment of $15,000 will be structured so that $5,000 is paid upon commencement of the course of study, with the remaining paid after their first year in the classroom. This initiative will increase the attractiveness of STEM teaching careers and boost the number of qualified STEM teachers in Australian classrooms.
The payment of $15,000 will be structured so that $5,000 is paid upon commencement of the course of study, with the remaining paid after their first year in the classroom. This initiative will increase the attractiveness of STEM teaching careers and boost the number of qualified STEM teachers in Australian classrooms. Labor will invest $133 million over four years to deliver our Teach STEM program.
This initiative will increase the attractiveness of STEM teaching careers and boost the number of qualified STEM teachers in Australian classrooms. Labor will invest $133 million over four years to deliver our Teach STEM program. Labor wants to upskill teachers and attract more STEM-qualified people into teaching because we understand that targeted investment across the education system to improve skills and drive innovation is vital to unlocking this country’s most important resource: the creativity and genius of Australia’s people.
Labor will invest $133 million over four years to deliver our Teach STEM program. Labor wants to upskill teachers and attract more STEM-qualified people into teaching because we understand that targeted investment across the education system to improve skills and drive innovation is vital to unlocking this country’s most important resource: the creativity and genius of Australia’s people. POSITIVE POLICY
Labor wants to upskill teachers and attract more STEM-qualified people into teaching because we understand that targeted investment across the education system to improve skills and drive innovation is vital to unlocking this country’s most important resource: the creativity and genius of Australia’s people. POSITIVE POLICY Investing in Indigenous Students
POSITIVE POLICY Investing in Indigenous Students A Shorten Labor Government will invest an additional $100 million to support Indigenous students to succeed at school, and boost the number of Indigenous teachers.
Investing in Indigenous Students A Shorten Labor Government will invest an additional $100 million to support Indigenous students to succeed at school, and boost the number of Indigenous teachers. This is part of Labor’s plan to help close the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students.
A Shorten Labor Government will invest an additional $100 million to support Indigenous students to succeed at school, and boost the number of Indigenous teachers. This is part of Labor’s plan to help close the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students. Currently, the gap between outcomes for Indigenous and non-Indigenous students is unacceptably high.
This is part of Labor’s plan to help close the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students. Currently, the gap between outcomes for Indigenous and non-Indigenous students is unacceptably high. Indigenous students are still:Twice as likely to be developmentally vulnerable in their first year of school.
Currently, the gap between outcomes for Indigenous and non-Indigenous students is unacceptably high. Indigenous students are still:Twice as likely to be developmentally vulnerable in their first year of school. Up to two years behind at school.
Indigenous students are still:Twice as likely to be developmentally vulnerable in their first year of school. Up to two years behind at school. Behind non-Indigenous students’ NAPLAN results.
Up to two years behind at school. Behind non-Indigenous students’ NAPLAN results. Less likely to complete Year 12.
Behind non-Indigenous students’ NAPLAN results. Less likely to complete Year 12. This is just not good enough.
Less likely to complete Year 12. This is just not good enough. Labor’s Your Child. Our Future plan will make sure that Indigenous students get the targeted support we know makes a difference to their education.
This is just not good enough. Labor’s Your Child. Our Future plan will make sure that Indigenous students get the targeted support we know makes a difference to their education. Schools and educators will be able to put in place targeted strategies to close the gap, including: Early intervention literacy and numeracy programs.
Labor’s Your Child. Our Future plan will make sure that Indigenous students get the targeted support we know makes a difference to their education. Schools and educators will be able to put in place targeted strategies to close the gap, including: Early intervention literacy and numeracy programs. Breakfast clubs.
Schools and educators will be able to put in place targeted strategies to close the gap, including: Early intervention literacy and numeracy programs. Breakfast clubs. Attendance, parenting and family support programs.
Breakfast clubs. Attendance, parenting and family support programs. Targeted professional development and training for teachers.
Attendance, parenting and family support programs. Targeted professional development and training for teachers. One-on-one tutoring and mentoring.
Targeted professional development and training for teachers. One-on-one tutoring and mentoring. Labor’s Your Child. Our Future will see an additional $96 million go towards improving outcomes for Indigenous students around Australia over school years 2018 and 2019.
One-on-one tutoring and mentoring. Labor’s Your Child. Our Future will see an additional $96 million go towards improving outcomes for Indigenous students around Australia over school years 2018 and 2019. In addition, Labor will provide $4.8 million over the forward estimates to fund 100 scholarships per year for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, and increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teachers.
Labor’s Your Child. Our Future will see an additional $96 million go towards improving outcomes for Indigenous students around Australia over school years 2018 and 2019. In addition, Labor will provide $4.8 million over the forward estimates to fund 100 scholarships per year for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, and increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teachers. Increasing the number of Indigenous teachers is critical to improving the educational outcomes of Indigenous students.
In addition, Labor will provide $4.8 million over the forward estimates to fund 100 scholarships per year for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, and increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teachers. Increasing the number of Indigenous teachers is critical to improving the educational outcomes of Indigenous students. Indigenous teachers are significantly under-represented in schools.
Increasing the number of Indigenous teachers is critical to improving the educational outcomes of Indigenous students. Indigenous teachers are significantly under-represented in schools. While Indigenous students comprise 5 per cent of the total school student population, they only represent approximately 1 per cent of the teaching community.
Indigenous teachers are significantly under-represented in schools. While Indigenous students comprise 5 per cent of the total school student population, they only represent approximately 1 per cent of the teaching community. Labor is committed to efforts to close the gap in Indigenous disadvantage – and education is key.
While Indigenous students comprise 5 per cent of the total school student population, they only represent approximately 1 per cent of the teaching community. Labor is committed to efforts to close the gap in Indigenous disadvantage – and education is key. Mr Turnbull’s decision to dump the Gonski reforms and rip $29 billion out of schools will mean that students who need the most help are not getting the resources and support they need to succeed at school.
Labor is committed to efforts to close the gap in Indigenous disadvantage – and education is key. Mr Turnbull’s decision to dump the Gonski reforms and rip $29 billion out of schools will mean that students who need the most help are not getting the resources and support they need to succeed at school. Only Labor will put people first – and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with the investment they need to achieve their best.
Mr Turnbull’s decision to dump the Gonski reforms and rip $29 billion out of schools will mean that students who need the most help are not getting the resources and support they need to succeed at school. Only Labor will put people first – and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with the investment they need to achieve their best. Funding for the $96 million in targeted support for Indigenous students formed part of Labor’s Your Child. Our Future package announced on 28 January 2016.
Only Labor will put people first – and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with the investment they need to achieve their best. Funding for the $96 million in targeted support for Indigenous students formed part of Labor’s Your Child. Our Future package announced on 28 January 2016. Labor’s Indigenous teacher scholarships program is offset from Labor’s announced improvements to the Budget.
Funding for the $96 million in targeted support for Indigenous students formed part of Labor’s Your Child. Our Future package announced on 28 January 2016. Labor’s Indigenous teacher scholarships program is offset from Labor’s announced improvements to the Budget. POSITIVE POLICY
Labor’s Indigenous teacher scholarships program is offset from Labor’s announced improvements to the Budget. POSITIVE POLICY Targeted Teaching
POSITIVE POLICY Targeted Teaching A Shorten Labor Government will make sure school funding is conditional on evidence-based learning programs which are proven to increase student results.
Targeted Teaching A Shorten Labor Government will make sure school funding is conditional on evidence-based learning programs which are proven to increase student results. Labor will also provide $4.6 million to expand the use of Targeted Teaching – using accurate information about what students actually understand, and what they are ready to learn next.
A Shorten Labor Government will make sure school funding is conditional on evidence-based learning programs which are proven to increase student results. Labor will also provide $4.6 million to expand the use of Targeted Teaching – using accurate information about what students actually understand, and what they are ready to learn next. This will put Australian students on the right track to meet Labor’s target for our schools to be back in the top five internationally for reading, maths and science by 2025.
Labor will also provide $4.6 million to expand the use of Targeted Teaching – using accurate information about what students actually understand, and what they are ready to learn next. This will put Australian students on the right track to meet Labor’s target for our schools to be back in the top five internationally for reading, maths and science by 2025. Targeted Teaching is about recognising that a one-size-fits-all approach to the classroom does not achieve the best results, and backing our educators in their hard work to support every student.
This will put Australian students on the right track to meet Labor’s target for our schools to be back in the top five internationally for reading, maths and science by 2025. Targeted Teaching is about recognising that a one-size-fits-all approach to the classroom does not achieve the best results, and backing our educators in their hard work to support every student. It means catching students before they fall too far behind, and making sure students who are ahead are still challenged to reach their full potential.
Targeted Teaching is about recognising that a one-size-fits-all approach to the classroom does not achieve the best results, and backing our educators in their hard work to support every student. It means catching students before they fall too far behind, and making sure students who are ahead are still challenged to reach their full potential. It also requires educators to assess their own teaching, keep what is working and change what is not.
It means catching students before they fall too far behind, and making sure students who are ahead are still challenged to reach their full potential. It also requires educators to assess their own teaching, keep what is working and change what is not. Labor’s plan recognises that every dollar of taxpayer funds should be going toward programs which actually make a difference in the classroom.
It also requires educators to assess their own teaching, keep what is working and change what is not. Labor’s plan recognises that every dollar of taxpayer funds should be going toward programs which actually make a difference in the classroom. Labor will immediately invest $4.6 million to identify the most effective Targeted Teaching resources, and develop guidance and support so schools and teachers can make the changes we need in the classroom.
Labor’s plan recognises that every dollar of taxpayer funds should be going toward programs which actually make a difference in the classroom. Labor will immediately invest $4.6 million to identify the most effective Targeted Teaching resources, and develop guidance and support so schools and teachers can make the changes we need in the classroom. Australian trials show Targeted Teaching has the potential to improve the proportion of students meeting early primary learning benchmarks in disadvantaged schools by up to 20 per cent.
Labor will immediately invest $4.6 million to identify the most effective Targeted Teaching resources, and develop guidance and support so schools and teachers can make the changes we need in the classroom. Australian trials show Targeted Teaching has the potential to improve the proportion of students meeting early primary learning benchmarks in disadvantaged schools by up to 20 per cent. Schools and school systems will be expected to have a proven strategy to lift student results.
Australian trials show Targeted Teaching has the potential to improve the proportion of students meeting early primary learning benchmarks in disadvantaged schools by up to 20 per cent. Schools and school systems will be expected to have a proven strategy to lift student results. Labor’s needs-based Your Child. Our Future plan will mean schools have the resources at the local level to support the implementation of programs like Targeted Teaching – with Labor investing $3.8 billion more in our schools than Mr Turnbull in 2018 and 2019 alone.
Schools and school systems will be expected to have a proven strategy to lift student results. Labor’s needs-based Your Child. Our Future plan will mean schools have the resources at the local level to support the implementation of programs like Targeted Teaching – with Labor investing $3.8 billion more in our schools than Mr Turnbull in 2018 and 2019 alone. Labor has made education a priority because we know it is critical to Australia’s future economy.
Labor’s needs-based Your Child. Our Future plan will mean schools have the resources at the local level to support the implementation of programs like Targeted Teaching – with Labor investing $3.8 billion more in our schools than Mr Turnbull in 2018 and 2019 alone. Labor has made education a priority because we know it is critical to Australia’s future economy. You can’t have a plan for economic growth if you don’t have a plan to invest in education.
Labor has made education a priority because we know it is critical to Australia’s future economy. You can’t have a plan for economic growth if you don’t have a plan to invest in education. The choice for families is clear this election.
You can’t have a plan for economic growth if you don’t have a plan to invest in education. The choice for families is clear this election. A vote for Malcolm Turnbull and the Liberals is a vote for a $50 billion tax cut for big business.
The choice for families is clear this election. A vote for Malcolm Turnbull and the Liberals is a vote for a $50 billion tax cut for big business. A vote for Bill Shorten and Labor is a vote for strong schools.
A vote for Malcolm Turnbull and the Liberals is a vote for a $50 billion tax cut for big business. A vote for Bill Shorten and Labor is a vote for strong schools. POSITIVE POLICY
A vote for Bill Shorten and Labor is a vote for strong schools. POSITIVE POLICY Supporting Country Classrooms
POSITIVE POLICY Supporting Country Classrooms Despite one in three Australians living outside our capital cities, there is a clear educational divide between the city and the country.
Supporting Country Classrooms Despite one in three Australians living outside our capital cities, there is a clear educational divide between the city and the country. Across all tested year levels, students from regional and remote Australia score lower in NAPLAN.
Despite one in three Australians living outside our capital cities, there is a clear educational divide between the city and the country. Across all tested year levels, students from regional and remote Australia score lower in NAPLAN. More students in regional Australia also drop out of school, with year 12 retention rates significantly lower than in major cities.
Across all tested year levels, students from regional and remote Australia score lower in NAPLAN. More students in regional Australia also drop out of school, with year 12 retention rates significantly lower than in major cities. Labor believes the future success of regional students and communities relies on a strong education system that will equip students in country schools with the skills they need to get the jobs of the future.
More students in regional Australia also drop out of school, with year 12 retention rates significantly lower than in major cities. Labor believes the future success of regional students and communities relies on a strong education system that will equip students in country schools with the skills they need to get the jobs of the future. If Australia is to have a strong economic future, we need to make sure every student in regional and country Australia is prepared for high-skill, high-wage jobs.
Labor believes the future success of regional students and communities relies on a strong education system that will equip students in country schools with the skills they need to get the jobs of the future. If Australia is to have a strong economic future, we need to make sure every student in regional and country Australia is prepared for high-skill, high-wage jobs. Labor’s policy will ensure every child growing up outside our capital cities has the opportunity to achieve their full potential at school, and that the long-standing divide in educational achievement is closed.
If Australia is to have a strong economic future, we need to make sure every student in regional and country Australia is prepared for high-skill, high-wage jobs. Labor’s policy will ensure every child growing up outside our capital cities has the opportunity to achieve their full potential at school, and that the long-standing divide in educational achievement is closed. Labor will invest an additional $1.8 billion in regional and country classrooms as part of the Your Child. Our Future plan for Australian schools.
Labor’s policy will ensure every child growing up outside our capital cities has the opportunity to achieve their full potential at school, and that the long-standing divide in educational achievement is closed. Labor will invest an additional $1.8 billion in regional and country classrooms as part of the Your Child. Our Future plan for Australian schools. Under Labor’s plan to fund the Gonski reforms on-time and in-full, students outside our capital cities will have the same opportunities to learn the skills they need to succeed.
Labor will invest an additional $1.8 billion in regional and country classrooms as part of the Your Child. Our Future plan for Australian schools. Under Labor’s plan to fund the Gonski reforms on-time and in-full, students outside our capital cities will have the same opportunities to learn the skills they need to succeed. Labor’s new school funding for our regions will benefit 1.5 million students during 2018 and 2019.
Under Labor’s plan to fund the Gonski reforms on-time and in-full, students outside our capital cities will have the same opportunities to learn the skills they need to succeed. Labor’s new school funding for our regions will benefit 1.5 million students during 2018 and 2019. This extra support will mean more individualised support and attention for regional students, better early literacy and numeracy programs and better professional development for our teachers.
Labor’s new school funding for our regions will benefit 1.5 million students during 2018 and 2019. This extra support will mean more individualised support and attention for regional students, better early literacy and numeracy programs and better professional development for our teachers. POSITIVE POLICY
This extra support will mean more individualised support and attention for regional students, better early literacy and numeracy programs and better professional development for our teachers. POSITIVE POLICY Addressing The Child Care Squeeze
POSITIVE POLICY Addressing The Child Care Squeeze The struggle to secure early education and care places has been completely ignored by the Liberals.
Addressing The Child Care Squeeze The struggle to secure early education and care places has been completely ignored by the Liberals. Many parents face long and frustrating waiting lists to access early education and care services – with the current arrangements limiting work options for parents.
The struggle to secure early education and care places has been completely ignored by the Liberals. Many parents face long and frustrating waiting lists to access early education and care services – with the current arrangements limiting work options for parents. This isn’t only a battle before children reach school.
Many parents face long and frustrating waiting lists to access early education and care services – with the current arrangements limiting work options for parents. This isn’t only a battle before children reach school. Parents needing Outside School Hours Care can face long waiting lists, and may even find that services simply don’t exist in their area.
This isn’t only a battle before children reach school. Parents needing Outside School Hours Care can face long waiting lists, and may even find that services simply don’t exist in their area. Long waiting lists also drive up early education and care costs – locking low and middle income families out of high demand areas.
Parents needing Outside School Hours Care can face long waiting lists, and may even find that services simply don’t exist in their area. Long waiting lists also drive up early education and care costs – locking low and middle income families out of high demand areas. They also lock vulnerable and disadvantaged children out of vital early learning, when they have the most to gain.
Long waiting lists also drive up early education and care costs – locking low and middle income families out of high demand areas. They also lock vulnerable and disadvantaged children out of vital early learning, when they have the most to gain. To help tackle waiting lists, Labor will: Invest $100 million over three years from 2017-18 so services in areas of very high demand can expand – creating more places where families need them.
They also lock vulnerable and disadvantaged children out of vital early learning, when they have the most to gain. To help tackle waiting lists, Labor will: Invest $100 million over three years from 2017-18 so services in areas of very high demand can expand – creating more places where families need them. We will target areas of high or rapidly growing demand, with waiting lists in the local area, and priority will be given to community and not-for-profit services which would otherwise not be able to expand.
To help tackle waiting lists, Labor will: Invest $100 million over three years from 2017-18 so services in areas of very high demand can expand – creating more places where families need them. We will target areas of high or rapidly growing demand, with waiting lists in the local area, and priority will be given to community and not-for-profit services which would otherwise not be able to expand. Commit $63.2 million over three years from 2017-18 to establish or expand up to 1,200 Outside School Hours Care services. Grants of up to $50,000 will be made available.
We will target areas of high or rapidly growing demand, with waiting lists in the local area, and priority will be given to community and not-for-profit services which would otherwise not be able to expand. Commit $63.2 million over three years from 2017-18 to establish or expand up to 1,200 Outside School Hours Care services. Grants of up to $50,000 will be made available. Services must be in areas of high demand, have waiting lists or be in areas where Outside School Hours Care is currently not available.
Commit $63.2 million over three years from 2017-18 to establish or expand up to 1,200 Outside School Hours Care services. Grants of up to $50,000 will be made available. Services must be in areas of high demand, have waiting lists or be in areas where Outside School Hours Care is currently not available. Families who rely on child care need a better deal now – and that's what Labor will deliver.
Services must be in areas of high demand, have waiting lists or be in areas where Outside School Hours Care is currently not available. Families who rely on child care need a better deal now – and that's what Labor will deliver. The Liberals have done nothing for 1,000 days in government other than make early education and care more expensive for families – and they have no plans at all to deal with waiting lists or expand Outside School Hours Care.
Families who rely on child care need a better deal now – and that's what Labor will deliver. The Liberals have done nothing for 1,000 days in government other than make early education and care more expensive for families – and they have no plans at all to deal with waiting lists or expand Outside School Hours Care. As well as tackling waiting lists, Labor will boost the Child Care Benefit by 15 per cent and increase the Child Care Rebate cap from $7,500 to $10,000 per child per year from 1 January 2017.
The Liberals have done nothing for 1,000 days in government other than make early education and care more expensive for families – and they have no plans at all to deal with waiting lists or expand Outside School Hours Care. As well as tackling waiting lists, Labor will boost the Child Care Benefit by 15 per cent and increase the Child Care Rebate cap from $7,500 to $10,000 per child per year from 1 January 2017. Labor’s plan for better early education and care is essential to a growing economy.
As well as tackling waiting lists, Labor will boost the Child Care Benefit by 15 per cent and increase the Child Care Rebate cap from $7,500 to $10,000 per child per year from 1 January 2017. Labor’s plan for better early education and care is essential to a growing economy. It’s central to Labor’s plan for fairer growth, real jobs and greater opportunities.
Labor’s plan for better early education and care is essential to a growing economy. It’s central to Labor’s plan for fairer growth, real jobs and greater opportunities. POSITIVE POLICY
It’s central to Labor’s plan for fairer growth, real jobs and greater opportunities. POSITIVE POLICY Real Skills, Good Jobs
POSITIVE POLICY Real Skills, Good Jobs Labor won’t let Australians fall behind because there is a gap between the skills they have and the ones employers are looking for.
Real Skills, Good Jobs Labor won’t let Australians fall behind because there is a gap between the skills they have and the ones employers are looking for. We will help more unemployed young people into apprenticeships by creating 10,000 new Apprentice Ready places and see retrenched workers gain formal recognition of their skills through 5,000 accelerated apprenticeships so they can find their next job.
Labor won’t let Australians fall behind because there is a gap between the skills they have and the ones employers are looking for. We will help more unemployed young people into apprenticeships by creating 10,000 new Apprentice Ready places and see retrenched workers gain formal recognition of their skills through 5,000 accelerated apprenticeships so they can find their next job. We are backing apprenticeships because we believe every Australian should have the chance to gain real skills and a good job.
We will help more unemployed young people into apprenticeships by creating 10,000 new Apprentice Ready places and see retrenched workers gain formal recognition of their skills through 5,000 accelerated apprenticeships so they can find their next job. We are backing apprenticeships because we believe every Australian should have the chance to gain real skills and a good job. Together, the creation of these 15,000 places represents a $62.5 million investment in jobs and training for Australians who are struggling to get into work.
We are backing apprenticeships because we believe every Australian should have the chance to gain real skills and a good job. Together, the creation of these 15,000 places represents a $62.5 million investment in jobs and training for Australians who are struggling to get into work. POSITIVE POLICY
Together, the creation of these 15,000 places represents a $62.5 million investment in jobs and training for Australians who are struggling to get into work. POSITIVE POLICY Safe Schools: Supporting LGBTI Students
POSITIVE POLICY Safe Schools: Supporting LGBTI Students Every Australian student deserves to be treated with respect and dignity at school – so they can learn free from bullying and discrimination.
Safe Schools: Supporting LGBTI Students Every Australian student deserves to be treated with respect and dignity at school – so they can learn free from bullying and discrimination. Unfortunately, school is still a very difficult place for far too many LGBTI Australians: Eighty per cent of LGBTI students face verbal abuse and bullying at school.
Every Australian student deserves to be treated with respect and dignity at school – so they can learn free from bullying and discrimination. Unfortunately, school is still a very difficult place for far too many LGBTI Australians: Eighty per cent of LGBTI students face verbal abuse and bullying at school. Only one in five LGBTI students attend a school where they feel supported.
Unfortunately, school is still a very difficult place for far too many LGBTI Australians: Eighty per cent of LGBTI students face verbal abuse and bullying at school. Only one in five LGBTI students attend a school where they feel supported. LGBTI young Australians are six times more likely to die from suicide, with bullying and exclusion major factors in suicide attempts.
Only one in five LGBTI students attend a school where they feel supported. LGBTI young Australians are six times more likely to die from suicide, with bullying and exclusion major factors in suicide attempts. Labor funded the national rollout of the Safe Schools program in 2013 to address the serious issues of bullying and poor mental health among young LGBTI Australians.
LGBTI young Australians are six times more likely to die from suicide, with bullying and exclusion major factors in suicide attempts. Labor funded the national rollout of the Safe Schools program in 2013 to address the serious issues of bullying and poor mental health among young LGBTI Australians. Every time bullying occurs in our schools, it distracts students from their learning and saps them of their potential.
Labor funded the national rollout of the Safe Schools program in 2013 to address the serious issues of bullying and poor mental health among young LGBTI Australians. Every time bullying occurs in our schools, it distracts students from their learning and saps them of their potential. Already, 545 schools with over 400,000 students have chosen to take part in the program HYPERLINK "http://www.100positivepolicies.org.au/safe_schools_supporting_lgbti_students" \l "_ftn4" [4].
Every time bullying occurs in our schools, it distracts students from their learning and saps them of their potential. Already, 545 schools with over 400,000 students have chosen to take part in the program HYPERLINK "http://www.100positivepolicies.org.au/safe_schools_supporting_lgbti_students" \l "_ftn4" [4]. Safe Schools is supported by Beyond Blue, The Black Dog Institute and headspace.
Already, 545 schools with over 400,000 students have chosen to take part in the program HYPERLINK "http://www.100positivepolicies.org.au/safe_schools_supporting_lgbti_students" \l "_ftn4" [4]. Safe Schools is supported by Beyond Blue, The Black Dog Institute and headspace. Despite the Liberals’ initial support for Safe Schools, Malcolm Turnbull has caved in to the extreme elements of his backbench and cut funding for the program from 2017.
Safe Schools is supported by Beyond Blue, The Black Dog Institute and headspace. Despite the Liberals’ initial support for Safe Schools, Malcolm Turnbull has caved in to the extreme elements of his backbench and cut funding for the program from 2017. This coincides with his unnecessary, damaging and divisive plebiscite on marriage equality – which will only make life harder for young Australians coming to terms with their sexuality.
Despite the Liberals’ initial support for Safe Schools, Malcolm Turnbull has caved in to the extreme elements of his backbench and cut funding for the program from 2017. This coincides with his unnecessary, damaging and divisive plebiscite on marriage equality – which will only make life harder for young Australians coming to terms with their sexuality. Labor will invest $6 million over three years from 2017-18 to continue the Safe Schools program and support the Foundation for Young Australians to keep working with school communities to reduce bullying and discrimination.
This coincides with his unnecessary, damaging and divisive plebiscite on marriage equality – which will only make life harder for young Australians coming to terms with their sexuality. Labor will invest $6 million over three years from 2017-18 to continue the Safe Schools program and support the Foundation for Young Australians to keep working with school communities to reduce bullying and discrimination. Labor will work with schools and experts to make sure the program is based on the most effective strategies to reduce bullying, includes best-practice parental engagement and meets the needs of young Australians.
Labor will invest $6 million over three years from 2017-18 to continue the Safe Schools program and support the Foundation for Young Australians to keep working with school communities to reduce bullying and discrimination. Labor will work with schools and experts to make sure the program is based on the most effective strategies to reduce bullying, includes best-practice parental engagement and meets the needs of young Australians. Labor will implement the program in line with the findings of the independent review.
Labor will work with schools and experts to make sure the program is based on the most effective strategies to reduce bullying, includes best-practice parental engagement and meets the needs of young Australians. Labor will implement the program in line with the findings of the independent review. Labor will put the interests of vulnerable young Australians facing bulling and discrimination first.
Labor will implement the program in line with the findings of the independent review. Labor will put the interests of vulnerable young Australians facing bulling and discrimination first. POSITIVE POLICY
Labor will put the interests of vulnerable young Australians facing bulling and discrimination first. POSITIVE POLICY Reducing Admission Fees To Questacon
POSITIVE POLICY Reducing Admission Fees To Questacon For 30 years, Questacon has been exciting adults and children, and inspiring the scientists, researchers and engineers of tomorrow.
Reducing Admission Fees To Questacon For 30 years, Questacon has been exciting adults and children, and inspiring the scientists, researchers and engineers of tomorrow. Questacon is Australia’s premier science museum, attracting 454,251 visitors and 136,155 school groups in 2015 alone.
For 30 years, Questacon has been exciting adults and children, and inspiring the scientists, researchers and engineers of tomorrow. Questacon is Australia’s premier science museum, attracting 454,251 visitors and 136,155 school groups in 2015 alone. While Questacon is attracting more visitors than ever, families under pressure from tight budgets and stagnant wages are missing out.
Questacon is Australia’s premier science museum, attracting 454,251 visitors and 136,155 school groups in 2015 alone. While Questacon is attracting more visitors than ever, families under pressure from tight budgets and stagnant wages are missing out. Current admission prices are adults $23.50, children $17.50 (children under four are admitted for free) and annual membership $160 (for the first year or $127.50 for renewing family memberships).
While Questacon is attracting more visitors than ever, families under pressure from tight budgets and stagnant wages are missing out. Current admission prices are adults $23.50, children $17.50 (children under four are admitted for free) and annual membership $160 (for the first year or $127.50 for renewing family memberships). That means a day visit for a family of two adults and two children comes to a total of $82.
Current admission prices are adults $23.50, children $17.50 (children under four are admitted for free) and annual membership $160 (for the first year or $127.50 for renewing family memberships). That means a day visit for a family of two adults and two children comes to a total of $82. Labor believes that sparking the curiosity of young people and inspiring an interest in science and engineering isn’t just something that benefits the individual, it is something that benefits the nation.
That means a day visit for a family of two adults and two children comes to a total of $82. Labor believes that sparking the curiosity of young people and inspiring an interest in science and engineering isn’t just something that benefits the individual, it is something that benefits the nation. If we are to be an innovation nation, powered by the strength of our ideas, we need to expand access to inspiring institutions like Questacon.
Labor believes that sparking the curiosity of young people and inspiring an interest in science and engineering isn’t just something that benefits the individual, it is something that benefits the nation. If we are to be an innovation nation, powered by the strength of our ideas, we need to expand access to inspiring institutions like Questacon. While simply lowering admission fees will allow more visitors, in particular from lower socio-economic backgrounds, any reduction in Questacon admission prices will reduce revenue while increasing costs through additional visitation impacting on cleaning, exhibition maintenance and staff numbers required to maintain safety and security.
If we are to be an innovation nation, powered by the strength of our ideas, we need to expand access to inspiring institutions like Questacon. While simply lowering admission fees will allow more visitors, in particular from lower socio-economic backgrounds, any reduction in Questacon admission prices will reduce revenue while increasing costs through additional visitation impacting on cleaning, exhibition maintenance and staff numbers required to maintain safety and security. That is why lowering admission prices will require action from government, which is the largest source of revenue for Questacon.
While simply lowering admission fees will allow more visitors, in particular from lower socio-economic backgrounds, any reduction in Questacon admission prices will reduce revenue while increasing costs through additional visitation impacting on cleaning, exhibition maintenance and staff numbers required to maintain safety and security. That is why lowering admission prices will require action from government, which is the largest source of revenue for Questacon. That is why a Shorten Labor Government will act to improve the accessibility of Questacon for all Australians.
That is why lowering admission prices will require action from government, which is the largest source of revenue for Questacon. That is why a Shorten Labor Government will act to improve the accessibility of Questacon for all Australians. Labor’s plan
That is why a Shorten Labor Government will act to improve the accessibility of Questacon for all Australians. Labor’s plan A Shorten Labor Government will support Questacon to lower admission fees for all visitors by $7.50. This will bring adult admission prices to $16 and a child admission to $10.
Labor’s plan A Shorten Labor Government will support Questacon to lower admission fees for all visitors by $7.50. This will bring adult admission prices to $16 and a child admission to $10. A $7.50 reduction in the per person admission price would impact Questacon by approximately a $3.675 million per year loss in revenue.
A Shorten Labor Government will support Questacon to lower admission fees for all visitors by $7.50. This will bring adult admission prices to $16 and a child admission to $10. A $7.50 reduction in the per person admission price would impact Questacon by approximately a $3.675 million per year loss in revenue. This factors in an increase in visitor numbers but not the increased operational costs associated with the reduction.
A $7.50 reduction in the per person admission price would impact Questacon by approximately a $3.675 million per year loss in revenue. This factors in an increase in visitor numbers but not the increased operational costs associated with the reduction. A Shorten Labor Government will provide additional financing to Questacon of $3.7 million per year ($14.8 million over the forward estimates) to allow for a reduction in admission fees without a loss to the services provided by Questacon.
This factors in an increase in visitor numbers but not the increased operational costs associated with the reduction. A Shorten Labor Government will provide additional financing to Questacon of $3.7 million per year ($14.8 million over the forward estimates) to allow for a reduction in admission fees without a loss to the services provided by Questacon. Labor believes that all children and adults, regardless of their background, should have the opportunity to be inspired by the exhibitions at Questacon, whether they be Canberra locals or visitors to our national capital.
A Shorten Labor Government will provide additional financing to Questacon of $3.7 million per year ($14.8 million over the forward estimates) to allow for a reduction in admission fees without a loss to the services provided by Questacon. Labor believes that all children and adults, regardless of their background, should have the opportunity to be inspired by the exhibitions at Questacon, whether they be Canberra locals or visitors to our national capital. A Shorten Labor Government will make sure more do.
Labor believes that all children and adults, regardless of their background, should have the opportunity to be inspired by the exhibitions at Questacon, whether they be Canberra locals or visitors to our national capital. A Shorten Labor Government will make sure more do. Making health our #1 priority: protecting Medicare, investing in our health system
A Shorten Labor Government will make sure more do. Making health our #1 priority: protecting Medicare, investing in our health system Labor gave Australians Medicare and we will always protect it.
Making health our #1 priority: protecting Medicare, investing in our health system Labor gave Australians Medicare and we will always protect it. We believe all Australians should be able to access healthcare when and where they need it. That is what drives Labor’s health policy.
Labor gave Australians Medicare and we will always protect it. We believe all Australians should be able to access healthcare when and where they need it. That is what drives Labor’s health policy. POSITIVE POLICY
We believe all Australians should be able to access healthcare when and where they need it. That is what drives Labor’s health policy. POSITIVE POLICY A Stronger Medicare For All Australians
POSITIVE POLICY A Stronger Medicare For All Australians Labor will ensure that access to health care is determined by your Medicare card, and not your credit card, and will reverse the Turnbull Government’s GP Tax by stealth.
A Stronger Medicare For All Australians Labor will ensure that access to health care is determined by your Medicare card, and not your credit card, and will reverse the Turnbull Government’s GP Tax by stealth. Nobody wants to head down the same path as America when it comes to our health system.
Labor will ensure that access to health care is determined by your Medicare card, and not your credit card, and will reverse the Turnbull Government’s GP Tax by stealth. Nobody wants to head down the same path as America when it comes to our health system. That’s why a Shorten Labor Government will restore indexation of the Medicare Benefits Schedule from 1 January 2017.
Nobody wants to head down the same path as America when it comes to our health system. That’s why a Shorten Labor Government will restore indexation of the Medicare Benefits Schedule from 1 January 2017. This will apply to all services provided by GPs, allied health and other health practitioners and medical specialists.
That’s why a Shorten Labor Government will restore indexation of the Medicare Benefits Schedule from 1 January 2017. This will apply to all services provided by GPs, allied health and other health practitioners and medical specialists. We will oppose Mr Turnbull’s cuts which will reduce bulk billing and hit Australian families every time they visit the doctor, every time they have an X-Ray, every time their buy essential medicines.
This will apply to all services provided by GPs, allied health and other health practitioners and medical specialists. We will oppose Mr Turnbull’s cuts which will reduce bulk billing and hit Australian families every time they visit the doctor, every time they have an X-Ray, every time their buy essential medicines. Labor created Medicare and Labor will always protect Medicare.
We will oppose Mr Turnbull’s cuts which will reduce bulk billing and hit Australian families every time they visit the doctor, every time they have an X-Ray, every time their buy essential medicines. Labor created Medicare and Labor will always protect Medicare. Having failed three times to introduce its GP Tax – due to Labor’s opposition in the Senate – the Liberals imposed a GP Tax by stealth, freezing the indexation of the rebates paid to doctors for four years.
Labor created Medicare and Labor will always protect Medicare. Having failed three times to introduce its GP Tax – due to Labor’s opposition in the Senate – the Liberals imposed a GP Tax by stealth, freezing the indexation of the rebates paid to doctors for four years. Then in his first Budget, Malcolm Turnbull ripped another $925 million out of Medicare by extending the freeze by a further two years to 2020.
Having failed three times to introduce its GP Tax – due to Labor’s opposition in the Senate – the Liberals imposed a GP Tax by stealth, freezing the indexation of the rebates paid to doctors for four years. Then in his first Budget, Malcolm Turnbull ripped another $925 million out of Medicare by extending the freeze by a further two years to 2020. All Australians should be able to access health care when and where they need it.
Then in his first Budget, Malcolm Turnbull ripped another $925 million out of Medicare by extending the freeze by a further two years to 2020. All Australians should be able to access health care when and where they need it. That’s what drives Labor’s health policy.
All Australians should be able to access health care when and where they need it. That’s what drives Labor’s health policy. In contrast, Medicare is under attack from Mr Turnbull and the Liberals.
That’s what drives Labor’s health policy. In contrast, Medicare is under attack from Mr Turnbull and the Liberals. They have made no secret they want us all to pay more to see the doctor and the indexation freeze will ensure this happens.
In contrast, Medicare is under attack from Mr Turnbull and the Liberals. They have made no secret they want us all to pay more to see the doctor and the indexation freeze will ensure this happens. Mr Turnbull’s only plans for Medicare are to cut bulk billing and to privatise it.
They have made no secret they want us all to pay more to see the doctor and the indexation freeze will ensure this happens. Mr Turnbull’s only plans for Medicare are to cut bulk billing and to privatise it. Doctors have confirmed the extension of the GP Tax by stealth in Mr Turnbull’s Budget will be the tipping point to make bulk billing unviable for many practices.
Mr Turnbull’s only plans for Medicare are to cut bulk billing and to privatise it. Doctors have confirmed the extension of the GP Tax by stealth in Mr Turnbull’s Budget will be the tipping point to make bulk billing unviable for many practices. Existing co-payments will be increased.
Doctors have confirmed the extension of the GP Tax by stealth in Mr Turnbull’s Budget will be the tipping point to make bulk billing unviable for many practices. Existing co-payments will be increased. Everyone will pay more and the sickest, the poorest and those in rural areas will be hit hardest.
Existing co-payments will be increased. Everyone will pay more and the sickest, the poorest and those in rural areas will be hit hardest. President of the Australian Medical Association, Professor Brian Owler, estimates that this will likely cost patients up to $20 more for each GP visit
Everyone will pay more and the sickest, the poorest and those in rural areas will be hit hardest. President of the Australian Medical Association, Professor Brian Owler, estimates that this will likely cost patients up to $20 more for each GP visit One in 20 Australians already say they delay visiting their GP, or do not visit at all, because of cost.
President of the Australian Medical Association, Professor Brian Owler, estimates that this will likely cost patients up to $20 more for each GP visit One in 20 Australians already say they delay visiting their GP, or do not visit at all, because of cost. This can lead to conditions deteriorating and people being admitted to hospital – meaning worse outcomes for the patient and greater cost to the health system.
One in 20 Australians already say they delay visiting their GP, or do not visit at all, because of cost. This can lead to conditions deteriorating and people being admitted to hospital – meaning worse outcomes for the patient and greater cost to the health system. It is vital we don’t create barriers for anyone who needs to see their GP.
This can lead to conditions deteriorating and people being admitted to hospital – meaning worse outcomes for the patient and greater cost to the health system. It is vital we don’t create barriers for anyone who needs to see their GP. The Liberals’ assault on Medicare and universal healthcare must stop.
It is vital we don’t create barriers for anyone who needs to see their GP. The Liberals’ assault on Medicare and universal healthcare must stop. All Australians should be able to access healthcare when and where they need it.
The Liberals’ assault on Medicare and universal healthcare must stop. All Australians should be able to access healthcare when and where they need it. Only Labor can be trusted to make this happen.
All Australians should be able to access healthcare when and where they need it. Only Labor can be trusted to make this happen. Labor’s policy has been costed independently by the Parliamentary Budget Office and will have an impact of $2.4 billion over the forward estimates (to 2019-20), and $12.2 billion over the decade to 2026-27.
Only Labor can be trusted to make this happen. Labor’s policy has been costed independently by the Parliamentary Budget Office and will have an impact of $2.4 billion over the forward estimates (to 2019-20), and $12.2 billion over the decade to 2026-27. Labor will fund this policy through announced improvements to the Budget, including not proceeding with the new baby bonus, capping VET FEE HELP loans, and not proceeding with the tax cut for multinational companies.
Labor’s policy has been costed independently by the Parliamentary Budget Office and will have an impact of $2.4 billion over the forward estimates (to 2019-20), and $12.2 billion over the decade to 2026-27. Labor will fund this policy through announced improvements to the Budget, including not proceeding with the new baby bonus, capping VET FEE HELP loans, and not proceeding with the tax cut for multinational companies. POSITIVE POLICY
Labor will fund this policy through announced improvements to the Budget, including not proceeding with the new baby bonus, capping VET FEE HELP loans, and not proceeding with the tax cut for multinational companies. POSITIVE POLICY Better Mental Health Care
POSITIVE POLICY Better Mental Health Care Labor believes that long term mental health reform focused on delivering a more integrated, cross-sector and whole-of-government mental health care system must be a national priority but it requires national leadership.
Better Mental Health Care Labor believes that long term mental health reform focused on delivering a more integrated, cross-sector and whole-of-government mental health care system must be a national priority but it requires national leadership. A Shorten Labor Government will build on Labor’s strong legacy in mental health by ensuring investment goes to where it is needed most.
Labor believes that long term mental health reform focused on delivering a more integrated, cross-sector and whole-of-government mental health care system must be a national priority but it requires national leadership. A Shorten Labor Government will build on Labor’s strong legacy in mental health by ensuring investment goes to where it is needed most. Labor’s commitment to strengthening support for people with mental illness and improving mental wellbeing starts with the recommendations of the National Mental Health Commission.
A Shorten Labor Government will build on Labor’s strong legacy in mental health by ensuring investment goes to where it is needed most. Labor’s commitment to strengthening support for people with mental illness and improving mental wellbeing starts with the recommendations of the National Mental Health Commission. Labor largely supports the National Mental Health Commission’s recommendations and will outline our priorities for implementation within the first 100 days of a Shorten Labor Government.
Labor’s commitment to strengthening support for people with mental illness and improving mental wellbeing starts with the recommendations of the National Mental Health Commission. Labor largely supports the National Mental Health Commission’s recommendations and will outline our priorities for implementation within the first 100 days of a Shorten Labor Government. In addition, a Shorten Labor Government is committed to making sure people with mental illness and their carers continue to be supported as the National Disability Insurance Scheme is rolled out and through the continuation of community based mental health services.
Labor largely supports the National Mental Health Commission’s recommendations and will outline our priorities for implementation within the first 100 days of a Shorten Labor Government. In addition, a Shorten Labor Government is committed to making sure people with mental illness and their carers continue to be supported as the National Disability Insurance Scheme is rolled out and through the continuation of community based mental health services. We will work towards improving the lives of those that are the most disadvantaged and we will not forget people living in regional, rural, and remote areas of Australia.
In addition, a Shorten Labor Government is committed to making sure people with mental illness and their carers continue to be supported as the National Disability Insurance Scheme is rolled out and through the continuation of community based mental health services. We will work towards improving the lives of those that are the most disadvantaged and we will not forget people living in regional, rural, and remote areas of Australia. We also recognise that the pressures faced by Australia’s small business owners and operators, as well as those in farming, can lead to poorer mental health and well-being.
We will work towards improving the lives of those that are the most disadvantaged and we will not forget people living in regional, rural, and remote areas of Australia. We also recognise that the pressures faced by Australia’s small business owners and operators, as well as those in farming, can lead to poorer mental health and well-being. We know that regionally delivered and funded services can help to build community resilience through early intervention and the prevention of mental illness.
We also recognise that the pressures faced by Australia’s small business owners and operators, as well as those in farming, can lead to poorer mental health and well-being. We know that regionally delivered and funded services can help to build community resilience through early intervention and the prevention of mental illness. Our efforts will also focus on preventing the tragedy of suicide by identifying and addressing the causes of suicide and providing services and support which target the people most at risk.
We know that regionally delivered and funded services can help to build community resilience through early intervention and the prevention of mental illness. Our efforts will also focus on preventing the tragedy of suicide by identifying and addressing the causes of suicide and providing services and support which target the people most at risk. A Shorten Labor Government will commit to the National Mental Health Commission’s target to reduce suicides by 50 per cent over the next ten years.
Our efforts will also focus on preventing the tragedy of suicide by identifying and addressing the causes of suicide and providing services and support which target the people most at risk. A Shorten Labor Government will commit to the National Mental Health Commission’s target to reduce suicides by 50 per cent over the next ten years. Labor will establish 12 regional initiatives – six urban, four regional and two remote - as the first stage in implementation of a comprehensive, whole of system approach to suicide prevention.
A Shorten Labor Government will commit to the National Mental Health Commission’s target to reduce suicides by 50 per cent over the next ten years. Labor will establish 12 regional initiatives – six urban, four regional and two remote - as the first stage in implementation of a comprehensive, whole of system approach to suicide prevention. Regions will apply for grants to fund place-based initiatives tailored to local community needs for services and support.
Labor will establish 12 regional initiatives – six urban, four regional and two remote - as the first stage in implementation of a comprehensive, whole of system approach to suicide prevention. Regions will apply for grants to fund place-based initiatives tailored to local community needs for services and support. We will work with stakeholders and State and Territory Governments to identify these sites within the first 100 days of government.
Regions will apply for grants to fund place-based initiatives tailored to local community needs for services and support. We will work with stakeholders and State and Territory Governments to identify these sites within the first 100 days of government. Labor’s plan will build on our historic investment in mental health in a way that ensures the sustainability and effectiveness of Australia’s mental health system for the long term.
We will work with stakeholders and State and Territory Governments to identify these sites within the first 100 days of government. Labor’s plan will build on our historic investment in mental health in a way that ensures the sustainability and effectiveness of Australia’s mental health system for the long term. POSITIVE POLICY
Labor’s plan will build on our historic investment in mental health in a way that ensures the sustainability and effectiveness of Australia’s mental health system for the long term. POSITIVE POLICY Medicinal Cannabis
POSITIVE POLICY Medicinal Cannabis A Shorten Labor Government will ensure patients who are suffering from a terminal illness or other serious medical conditions will be allowed access to safe, reliable and legal medicinal cannabis if prescribed by their Doctor.
Medicinal Cannabis A Shorten Labor Government will ensure patients who are suffering from a terminal illness or other serious medical conditions will be allowed access to safe, reliable and legal medicinal cannabis if prescribed by their Doctor. There are thousands of Australians who are suffering from unbearable pain, muscle spasticity from conditions like multiple sclerosis and nausea resulting from chemotherapy who may benefit from medicinal cannabis.
A Shorten Labor Government will ensure patients who are suffering from a terminal illness or other serious medical conditions will be allowed access to safe, reliable and legal medicinal cannabis if prescribed by their Doctor. There are thousands of Australians who are suffering from unbearable pain, muscle spasticity from conditions like multiple sclerosis and nausea resulting from chemotherapy who may benefit from medicinal cannabis. No one can imagine how horrific it must be for someone to see their child, partner or parent in immense pain, knowing relief is available but illegal.
There are thousands of Australians who are suffering from unbearable pain, muscle spasticity from conditions like multiple sclerosis and nausea resulting from chemotherapy who may benefit from medicinal cannabis. No one can imagine how horrific it must be for someone to see their child, partner or parent in immense pain, knowing relief is available but illegal. If we can do something to help people suffering immense pain from debilitating and life threatening conditions - then why on earth wouldn’t we?
No one can imagine how horrific it must be for someone to see their child, partner or parent in immense pain, knowing relief is available but illegal. If we can do something to help people suffering immense pain from debilitating and life threatening conditions - then why on earth wouldn’t we? There are too many stories of people suffering – and this is unacceptable in a modern society.
If we can do something to help people suffering immense pain from debilitating and life threatening conditions - then why on earth wouldn’t we? There are too many stories of people suffering – and this is unacceptable in a modern society. With the governments of New South Wales and Victoria pushing ahead with state-based schemes and Queensland joining those states in taking part in clinical trials, it is no longer tenable for the Federal Government to bury its head in the sand.
There are too many stories of people suffering – and this is unacceptable in a modern society. With the governments of New South Wales and Victoria pushing ahead with state-based schemes and Queensland joining those states in taking part in clinical trials, it is no longer tenable for the Federal Government to bury its head in the sand. Only the Commonwealth Government can ensure there is a national scheme which ensures equity of access and a safe and reliable supply and Labor will work with the states and territories to enact it.
With the governments of New South Wales and Victoria pushing ahead with state-based schemes and Queensland joining those states in taking part in clinical trials, it is no longer tenable for the Federal Government to bury its head in the sand. Only the Commonwealth Government can ensure there is a national scheme which ensures equity of access and a safe and reliable supply and Labor will work with the states and territories to enact it. Action at the national level is needed because a person’s access to a product that can relieve suffering should not be dictated by the vagaries of which state or territory they live in.
Only the Commonwealth Government can ensure there is a national scheme which ensures equity of access and a safe and reliable supply and Labor will work with the states and territories to enact it. Action at the national level is needed because a person’s access to a product that can relieve suffering should not be dictated by the vagaries of which state or territory they live in. POSITIVE POLICY
Action at the national level is needed because a person’s access to a product that can relieve suffering should not be dictated by the vagaries of which state or territory they live in. POSITIVE POLICY Indigenous Eye Health Help
POSITIVE POLICY Indigenous Eye Health Help A Shorten Labor Government will invest $9.5 million to close the gap in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander vision loss.
Indigenous Eye Health Help A Shorten Labor Government will invest $9.5 million to close the gap in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander vision loss. Labor is committed to closing the gap in eye health and vision loss between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians.
A Shorten Labor Government will invest $9.5 million to close the gap in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander vision loss. Labor is committed to closing the gap in eye health and vision loss between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians. Shockingly, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults are six times more likely to suffer from blindness.
Labor is committed to closing the gap in eye health and vision loss between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians. Shockingly, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults are six times more likely to suffer from blindness. However, 94 per cent of this vision loss is either preventable or treatable.
Shockingly, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults are six times more likely to suffer from blindness. However, 94 per cent of this vision loss is either preventable or treatable. Addressing vision loss alone would account for around 11 per cent of the gap in health outcomes between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians.
However, 94 per cent of this vision loss is either preventable or treatable. Addressing vision loss alone would account for around 11 per cent of the gap in health outcomes between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians. Australia is the only developed nation where the infectious and wholly preventable eye disease of trachoma still exists at endemic levels.
Addressing vision loss alone would account for around 11 per cent of the gap in health outcomes between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians. Australia is the only developed nation where the infectious and wholly preventable eye disease of trachoma still exists at endemic levels. And it only exists among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples – where it is endemic in two out of three remote communities.
Australia is the only developed nation where the infectious and wholly preventable eye disease of trachoma still exists at endemic levels. And it only exists among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples – where it is endemic in two out of three remote communities. Leaders such as the Vision 2020 alliance of health organisations, including Fred Hollows Foundation and the Indigenous Eye Health Unit at the University of Melbourne are making great progress in improving Indigenous eye health.
And it only exists among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples – where it is endemic in two out of three remote communities. Leaders such as the Vision 2020 alliance of health organisations, including Fred Hollows Foundation and the Indigenous Eye Health Unit at the University of Melbourne are making great progress in improving Indigenous eye health. Labor is determined to do more to support their great efforts and ensure that we finish the job and eliminate trachoma across the country.
Leaders such as the Vision 2020 alliance of health organisations, including Fred Hollows Foundation and the Indigenous Eye Health Unit at the University of Melbourne are making great progress in improving Indigenous eye health. Labor is determined to do more to support their great efforts and ensure that we finish the job and eliminate trachoma across the country. Equitable access to specialist and general eye health care services is critical to reducing high rates of preventable blindness among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Labor is determined to do more to support their great efforts and ensure that we finish the job and eliminate trachoma across the country. Equitable access to specialist and general eye health care services is critical to reducing high rates of preventable blindness among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. However, there is a significant unmet need – around 35 per cent of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults have never had an eye exam.
Equitable access to specialist and general eye health care services is critical to reducing high rates of preventable blindness among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. However, there is a significant unmet need – around 35 per cent of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults have never had an eye exam. Labor will deliver additional funding to increase visiting optometry services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to address the gap in general eye health.
However, there is a significant unmet need – around 35 per cent of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults have never had an eye exam. Labor will deliver additional funding to increase visiting optometry services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to address the gap in general eye health. Labor will also increase funding for ophthalmology services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to address the gap in specialist eye health care service delivery.
Labor will deliver additional funding to increase visiting optometry services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to address the gap in general eye health. Labor will also increase funding for ophthalmology services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to address the gap in specialist eye health care service delivery. To continue to drive progress towards the elimination of trachoma in Australia, Labor will invest in trachoma prevention activities recommended by the World Health Organisation.
Labor will also increase funding for ophthalmology services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to address the gap in specialist eye health care service delivery. To continue to drive progress towards the elimination of trachoma in Australia, Labor will invest in trachoma prevention activities recommended by the World Health Organisation. With Labor’s additional funding we can eliminate trachoma from Australia by 2020 and begin to turn the tide on this endemic health problem.
To continue to drive progress towards the elimination of trachoma in Australia, Labor will invest in trachoma prevention activities recommended by the World Health Organisation. With Labor’s additional funding we can eliminate trachoma from Australia by 2020 and begin to turn the tide on this endemic health problem. POSITIVE POLICY
With Labor’s additional funding we can eliminate trachoma from Australia by 2020 and begin to turn the tide on this endemic health problem. POSITIVE POLICY Managing Allergic Diseases
POSITIVE POLICY Managing Allergic Diseases A Shorten Labor Government will commit $1.1 million to better manage allergic diseases and their associated health risks.
Managing Allergic Diseases A Shorten Labor Government will commit $1.1 million to better manage allergic diseases and their associated health risks. Allergic diseases are among the fastest-growing chronic diseases in Australia with one in five Australians suffering from food and drug allergies, asthma, hay fever and other allergic diseases.
A Shorten Labor Government will commit $1.1 million to better manage allergic diseases and their associated health risks. Allergic diseases are among the fastest-growing chronic diseases in Australia with one in five Australians suffering from food and drug allergies, asthma, hay fever and other allergic diseases. Sadly, the evidence is we are not managing allergic diseases well.
Allergic diseases are among the fastest-growing chronic diseases in Australia with one in five Australians suffering from food and drug allergies, asthma, hay fever and other allergic diseases. Sadly, the evidence is we are not managing allergic diseases well. If not managed properly, allergic diseases can lead to anaphylaxis – severe, life-threatening allergic reactions and over the last 20 years hospital admissions for anaphylaxis have soared 400 per cent.
Sadly, the evidence is we are not managing allergic diseases well. If not managed properly, allergic diseases can lead to anaphylaxis – severe, life-threatening allergic reactions and over the last 20 years hospital admissions for anaphylaxis have soared 400 per cent. This also adds to the pressure on our health and hospitals system and properly managing allergic diseases would reduce avoidable emergency department presentations and expensive drug prescriptions.
If not managed properly, allergic diseases can lead to anaphylaxis – severe, life-threatening allergic reactions and over the last 20 years hospital admissions for anaphylaxis have soared 400 per cent. This also adds to the pressure on our health and hospitals system and properly managing allergic diseases would reduce avoidable emergency department presentations and expensive drug prescriptions. A Shorten Labor Government will give allergic diseases the attention and funding they deserve through this $1.1 million commitment over three years to improve management of allergic diseases.
This also adds to the pressure on our health and hospitals system and properly managing allergic diseases would reduce avoidable emergency department presentations and expensive drug prescriptions. A Shorten Labor Government will give allergic diseases the attention and funding they deserve through this $1.1 million commitment over three years to improve management of allergic diseases. Labor’s investment will fund the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy and Anaphylaxis Australia to: Improve allergy management for young Australians: Teens and young adults are at a higher risk of fatal anaphylaxis.
A Shorten Labor Government will give allergic diseases the attention and funding they deserve through this $1.1 million commitment over three years to improve management of allergic diseases. Labor’s investment will fund the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy and Anaphylaxis Australia to: Improve allergy management for young Australians: Teens and young adults are at a higher risk of fatal anaphylaxis. But the resources available to help them manage their allergies are insufficient.
Labor’s investment will fund the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy and Anaphylaxis Australia to: Improve allergy management for young Australians: Teens and young adults are at a higher risk of fatal anaphylaxis. But the resources available to help them manage their allergies are insufficient. Labor’s investment will allow the peak allergy organisations to consult with young Australians on their needs, then develop resources to help them manage their conditions and prevent more serious harm.
But the resources available to help them manage their allergies are insufficient. Labor’s investment will allow the peak allergy organisations to consult with young Australians on their needs, then develop resources to help them manage their conditions and prevent more serious harm. Educate the food industry on food allergies: There is no standardised, easy way for food service providers to learn about food allergies.
Labor’s investment will allow the peak allergy organisations to consult with young Australians on their needs, then develop resources to help them manage their conditions and prevent more serious harm. Educate the food industry on food allergies: There is no standardised, easy way for food service providers to learn about food allergies. This makes it harder for Australians with food allergies to eat outside their homes, and has in some cases led to food-induced anaphylaxis and deaths.
Educate the food industry on food allergies: There is no standardised, easy way for food service providers to learn about food allergies. This makes it harder for Australians with food allergies to eat outside their homes, and has in some cases led to food-induced anaphylaxis and deaths. Labor’s commitment will help educate food providers about food risks and mitigations, via roundtables and an online training course.
This makes it harder for Australians with food allergies to eat outside their homes, and has in some cases led to food-induced anaphylaxis and deaths. Labor’s commitment will help educate food providers about food risks and mitigations, via roundtables and an online training course. Standardise management of drug allergy: There is no standard way to manage drug allergies in Australia, and a patchwork of approaches has emerged.
Labor’s commitment will help educate food providers about food risks and mitigations, via roundtables and an online training course. Standardise management of drug allergy: There is no standard way to manage drug allergies in Australia, and a patchwork of approaches has emerged. In some cases drug allergies are not diagnosed or communicated, meaning they are not properly managed in settings including hospitals.
Standardise management of drug allergy: There is no standard way to manage drug allergies in Australia, and a patchwork of approaches has emerged. In some cases drug allergies are not diagnosed or communicated, meaning they are not properly managed in settings including hospitals. In other cases drug allergies are ‘over diagnosed’, increasing waiting times for allergy specialists and the use of more expensive antibiotic medications.
In some cases drug allergies are not diagnosed or communicated, meaning they are not properly managed in settings including hospitals. In other cases drug allergies are ‘over diagnosed’, increasing waiting times for allergy specialists and the use of more expensive antibiotic medications. Labor’s commitment will fund a range of activities, such as the development of new processes and protocols, to standardise drug allergy management.
In other cases drug allergies are ‘over diagnosed’, increasing waiting times for allergy specialists and the use of more expensive antibiotic medications. Labor’s commitment will fund a range of activities, such as the development of new processes and protocols, to standardise drug allergy management. Labor’s $1.1 million investment in Managing Allergic Diseases is further proof only Labor believes all Australians, no matter where they live or how much they earn, are entitled to the best possible health care, not the best possible health care they can afford.
Labor’s commitment will fund a range of activities, such as the development of new processes and protocols, to standardise drug allergy management. Labor’s $1.1 million investment in Managing Allergic Diseases is further proof only Labor believes all Australians, no matter where they live or how much they earn, are entitled to the best possible health care, not the best possible health care they can afford. POSITIVE POLICY
Labor’s $1.1 million investment in Managing Allergic Diseases is further proof only Labor believes all Australians, no matter where they live or how much they earn, are entitled to the best possible health care, not the best possible health care they can afford. POSITIVE POLICY Fight Smoking Related Diseases
POSITIVE POLICY Fight Smoking Related Diseases Tobacco consumption continues to have serious health and economic impacts for individuals, their families and society.
Fight Smoking Related Diseases Tobacco consumption continues to have serious health and economic impacts for individuals, their families and society. Each year in Australia tobacco still kills more than 15,000 people and has more than $31.5 billion in health and economic costs.
Tobacco consumption continues to have serious health and economic impacts for individuals, their families and society. Each year in Australia tobacco still kills more than 15,000 people and has more than $31.5 billion in health and economic costs. Results from the 2013 National Drug Strategy Household Survey show approximately 12.8 per cent of Australians - or around 2.5 million people - smoke daily.
Each year in Australia tobacco still kills more than 15,000 people and has more than $31.5 billion in health and economic costs. Results from the 2013 National Drug Strategy Household Survey show approximately 12.8 per cent of Australians - or around 2.5 million people - smoke daily. The costs of smoking also continue to weigh down on the economy and on the budget through its adverse health effects and associated costs to the healthcare system.
Results from the 2013 National Drug Strategy Household Survey show approximately 12.8 per cent of Australians - or around 2.5 million people - smoke daily. The costs of smoking also continue to weigh down on the economy and on the budget through its adverse health effects and associated costs to the healthcare system. The $31.5 billion in economic and social costs is more than triple the amount of revenue raised by the Commonwealth from tobacco excise, which stood at around $8.3 billion for the last financial year.
The costs of smoking also continue to weigh down on the economy and on the budget through its adverse health effects and associated costs to the healthcare system. The $31.5 billion in economic and social costs is more than triple the amount of revenue raised by the Commonwealth from tobacco excise, which stood at around $8.3 billion for the last financial year. A Shorten Labor Government will further curtail Australia’s biggest preventable cause of disease and death by raising tobacco excise to bring it in line with world’s best practice.
The $31.5 billion in economic and social costs is more than triple the amount of revenue raised by the Commonwealth from tobacco excise, which stood at around $8.3 billion for the last financial year. A Shorten Labor Government will further curtail Australia’s biggest preventable cause of disease and death by raising tobacco excise to bring it in line with world’s best practice. Labor will introduce four annual 12.5 per cent increases in excise on tobacco.
A Shorten Labor Government will further curtail Australia’s biggest preventable cause of disease and death by raising tobacco excise to bring it in line with world’s best practice. Labor will introduce four annual 12.5 per cent increases in excise on tobacco. Following the four 12.5 per cent increases in excise, taxation as a proportion of the retail price of a packet of cigarettes will sit at around the World Health Organisation’s target of 75 per cent of the retail price.
Labor will introduce four annual 12.5 per cent increases in excise on tobacco. Following the four 12.5 per cent increases in excise, taxation as a proportion of the retail price of a packet of cigarettes will sit at around the World Health Organisation’s target of 75 per cent of the retail price. Estimates suggest that in Australia these measures should lead to tens of thousands more Australians quitting smoking and that number again will smoke less than they otherwise would for every excise increase contained in this package.
Following the four 12.5 per cent increases in excise, taxation as a proportion of the retail price of a packet of cigarettes will sit at around the World Health Organisation’s target of 75 per cent of the retail price. Estimates suggest that in Australia these measures should lead to tens of thousands more Australians quitting smoking and that number again will smoke less than they otherwise would for every excise increase contained in this package. After initially opposing this measure as “another tax grab”, Labor welcomes the Coalition’s inclusion of it in the 2016 Budget.
Estimates suggest that in Australia these measures should lead to tens of thousands more Australians quitting smoking and that number again will smoke less than they otherwise would for every excise increase contained in this package. After initially opposing this measure as “another tax grab”, Labor welcomes the Coalition’s inclusion of it in the 2016 Budget. Only Labor can be trusted to take effective action to reduce smoking.
After initially opposing this measure as “another tax grab”, Labor welcomes the Coalition’s inclusion of it in the 2016 Budget. Only Labor can be trusted to take effective action to reduce smoking. POSITIVE POLICY
Only Labor can be trusted to take effective action to reduce smoking. POSITIVE POLICY Increase Support For Australians With Breast Cancer
POSITIVE POLICY Increase Support For Australians With Breast Cancer A Shorten Labor Government will commit $7 million to support women with breast cancer in rural Australia and women all around Australia with secondary breast cancer.
Increase Support For Australians With Breast Cancer A Shorten Labor Government will commit $7 million to support women with breast cancer in rural Australia and women all around Australia with secondary breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Australian women, and the second-deadliest.
A Shorten Labor Government will commit $7 million to support women with breast cancer in rural Australia and women all around Australia with secondary breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Australian women, and the second-deadliest. Despite the great advances of recent years, diagnoses of breast cancer are unrelenting – at a rate of 43 a day, 300 a week and more than 15,600 a year.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Australian women, and the second-deadliest. Despite the great advances of recent years, diagnoses of breast cancer are unrelenting – at a rate of 43 a day, 300 a week and more than 15,600 a year. Secondary breast cancer occurs where the disease spreads to other parts of the body – like bones, the lungs, the liver or the brain.
Despite the great advances of recent years, diagnoses of breast cancer are unrelenting – at a rate of 43 a day, 300 a week and more than 15,600 a year. Secondary breast cancer occurs where the disease spreads to other parts of the body – like bones, the lungs, the liver or the brain. While survival times are improving, secondary breast cancer is essentially incurable. It will kill 3,000 Australian mums, daughters, sisters and friends in 2016.
Secondary breast cancer occurs where the disease spreads to other parts of the body – like bones, the lungs, the liver or the brain. While survival times are improving, secondary breast cancer is essentially incurable. It will kill 3,000 Australian mums, daughters, sisters and friends in 2016. The Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) is the peak consumer organisation for Australians affected by breast cancer and has more than 110,000 members across Australia.
While survival times are improving, secondary breast cancer is essentially incurable. It will kill 3,000 Australian mums, daughters, sisters and friends in 2016. The Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) is the peak consumer organisation for Australians affected by breast cancer and has more than 110,000 members across Australia. Labor’s $7 million investment will enable BCNA to deliver improved support and information for women with secondary breast cancer and ongoing support for women with breast cancer in rural Australia.
The Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) is the peak consumer organisation for Australians affected by breast cancer and has more than 110,000 members across Australia. Labor’s $7 million investment will enable BCNA to deliver improved support and information for women with secondary breast cancer and ongoing support for women with breast cancer in rural Australia. Almost a third of Australian women with secondary breast cancer say they do not receive enough emotional support.
Labor’s $7 million investment will enable BCNA to deliver improved support and information for women with secondary breast cancer and ongoing support for women with breast cancer in rural Australia. Almost a third of Australian women with secondary breast cancer say they do not receive enough emotional support. Another one in five women say they have unmet needs for information.
Almost a third of Australian women with secondary breast cancer say they do not receive enough emotional support. Another one in five women say they have unmet needs for information. As part of this commitment, $4.4 million will be invested over four years to improve psychosocial support and information for women with secondary breast cancer.
Another one in five women say they have unmet needs for information. As part of this commitment, $4.4 million will be invested over four years to improve psychosocial support and information for women with secondary breast cancer. With Labor’s support, BCNA will deliver: a telephone counselling service for women and their families staffed by oncology social workers; expanded access to specialist secondary breast cancer nurses; and better access to information through a digital platform.
As part of this commitment, $4.4 million will be invested over four years to improve psychosocial support and information for women with secondary breast cancer. With Labor’s support, BCNA will deliver: a telephone counselling service for women and their families staffed by oncology social workers; expanded access to specialist secondary breast cancer nurses; and better access to information through a digital platform. Women who are diagnosed with breast cancer face particular challenges if they live in rural Australia.
With Labor’s support, BCNA will deliver: a telephone counselling service for women and their families staffed by oncology social workers; expanded access to specialist secondary breast cancer nurses; and better access to information through a digital platform. Women who are diagnosed with breast cancer face particular challenges if they live in rural Australia. They are likely to live further from vital health services, and also further from other women and supporters who can help them on their cancer journey.
Women who are diagnosed with breast cancer face particular challenges if they live in rural Australia. They are likely to live further from vital health services, and also further from other women and supporters who can help them on their cancer journey. Currently, BCNA provides specialised services and support in rural Australia, but under Malcolm Turnbull’s Government, these programs are set to expire in June 2017.
They are likely to live further from vital health services, and also further from other women and supporters who can help them on their cancer journey. Currently, BCNA provides specialised services and support in rural Australia, but under Malcolm Turnbull’s Government, these programs are set to expire in June 2017. Labor’s commitment of $2.6 million over three years will extend the BCNA’s funding to 2020, allowing it to continue its vital services.
Currently, BCNA provides specialised services and support in rural Australia, but under Malcolm Turnbull’s Government, these programs are set to expire in June 2017. Labor’s commitment of $2.6 million over three years will extend the BCNA’s funding to 2020, allowing it to continue its vital services. This commitment will also allow the BCNA to develop new programs – such as an app to help women with breast cancer across Australia.
Labor’s commitment of $2.6 million over three years will extend the BCNA’s funding to 2020, allowing it to continue its vital services. This commitment will also allow the BCNA to develop new programs – such as an app to help women with breast cancer across Australia. Labor’s commitment will fund the continued distribution of the BCNA’s key resources – the My Journey Kit for women with early breast cancer and Hope & Hurdles for women with secondary breast cancer.
This commitment will also allow the BCNA to develop new programs – such as an app to help women with breast cancer across Australia. Labor’s commitment will fund the continued distribution of the BCNA’s key resources – the My Journey Kit for women with early breast cancer and Hope & Hurdles for women with secondary breast cancer. It will also connect women with information and each other through community forums and the BCNA’s Online Network.
Labor’s commitment will fund the continued distribution of the BCNA’s key resources – the My Journey Kit for women with early breast cancer and Hope & Hurdles for women with secondary breast cancer. It will also connect women with information and each other through community forums and the BCNA’s Online Network. Given the unique challenges of accessing support in rural Australia, these opportunities for women with breast cancer to support each other are vital –a Shorten Labor Government will ensure they continue.
It will also connect women with information and each other through community forums and the BCNA’s Online Network. Given the unique challenges of accessing support in rural Australia, these opportunities for women with breast cancer to support each other are vital –a Shorten Labor Government will ensure they continue. POSITIVE POLICY
Given the unique challenges of accessing support in rural Australia, these opportunities for women with breast cancer to support each other are vital –a Shorten Labor Government will ensure they continue. POSITIVE POLICY Support Men With Prostate Cancer
POSITIVE POLICY Support Men With Prostate Cancer A Shorten Labor Government will provide greater support for men with prostate cancer and their families by committing $10.6 million to double the number of Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses.
Support Men With Prostate Cancer A Shorten Labor Government will provide greater support for men with prostate cancer and their families by committing $10.6 million to double the number of Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses. Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in Australia and our third most deadly cancer.
A Shorten Labor Government will provide greater support for men with prostate cancer and their families by committing $10.6 million to double the number of Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses. Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in Australia and our third most deadly cancer. In 2016, more than 3,000 Australian men will die from prostate cancer, and 20,000 will be diagnosed with it.
Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in Australia and our third most deadly cancer. In 2016, more than 3,000 Australian men will die from prostate cancer, and 20,000 will be diagnosed with it. The Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses program provides vital assistance to these men and their families.
In 2016, more than 3,000 Australian men will die from prostate cancer, and 20,000 will be diagnosed with it. The Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses program provides vital assistance to these men and their families. It places highly trained registered nurses in hospitals and other health settings.
The Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses program provides vital assistance to these men and their families. It places highly trained registered nurses in hospitals and other health settings. They provide expert information and support – for example, by helping men access services outside hospitals and making their journey through our health system easier.
It places highly trained registered nurses in hospitals and other health settings. They provide expert information and support – for example, by helping men access services outside hospitals and making their journey through our health system easier. Labor’s $10.6 million commitment over three years will double the number of Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses funded by the Federal Government to 28.
They provide expert information and support – for example, by helping men access services outside hospitals and making their journey through our health system easier. Labor’s $10.6 million commitment over three years will double the number of Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses funded by the Federal Government to 28. This will increase the total number of nurses around Australia to over 40, meeting unmet need.
Labor’s $10.6 million commitment over three years will double the number of Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses funded by the Federal Government to 28. This will increase the total number of nurses around Australia to over 40, meeting unmet need. Labor expects that its new commitment will give an additional 2,000 men each year access to a Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse.
This will increase the total number of nurses around Australia to over 40, meeting unmet need. Labor expects that its new commitment will give an additional 2,000 men each year access to a Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse. The new nurses funded by Labor will be assigned by the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA), based on need.
Labor expects that its new commitment will give an additional 2,000 men each year access to a Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse. The new nurses funded by Labor will be assigned by the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA), based on need. According to Associate Professor Anthony Lowe, Chief Executive Officer of PCFA, the announcement gives hope that more Australian men affected by prostate cancer may have better access to this specialist service, especially in rural and regional Australia.
The new nurses funded by Labor will be assigned by the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA), based on need. According to Associate Professor Anthony Lowe, Chief Executive Officer of PCFA, the announcement gives hope that more Australian men affected by prostate cancer may have better access to this specialist service, especially in rural and regional Australia. "We are pleased to hear that the Labor Party understands the importance of having the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses in the field and providing additional support to men and their families who are fighting prostate cancer,” said Associate Professor Lowe.
According to Associate Professor Anthony Lowe, Chief Executive Officer of PCFA, the announcement gives hope that more Australian men affected by prostate cancer may have better access to this specialist service, especially in rural and regional Australia. "We are pleased to hear that the Labor Party understands the importance of having the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses in the field and providing additional support to men and their families who are fighting prostate cancer,” said Associate Professor Lowe. The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia created the Specialist Nurse program in 2012, with support from the Movember Foundation.
"We are pleased to hear that the Labor Party understands the importance of having the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses in the field and providing additional support to men and their families who are fighting prostate cancer,” said Associate Professor Lowe. The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia created the Specialist Nurse program in 2012, with support from the Movember Foundation. The former Labor Government expanded the Program with a $7 million commitment in 2013.
The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia created the Specialist Nurse program in 2012, with support from the Movember Foundation. The former Labor Government expanded the Program with a $7 million commitment in 2013. Labor’s investment doubled the number of nurses employed across Australia to the current level of 28.
The former Labor Government expanded the Program with a $7 million commitment in 2013. Labor’s investment doubled the number of nurses employed across Australia to the current level of 28. But under Malcolm Turnbull’s leadership, the Liberals have not given the program the funding certainty it deserves and existing funding is set to expire in June 2017.
Labor’s investment doubled the number of nurses employed across Australia to the current level of 28. But under Malcolm Turnbull’s leadership, the Liberals have not given the program the funding certainty it deserves and existing funding is set to expire in June 2017. The program is particularly vulnerable because it’s financed from the Department of Health’s ‘Flexible Funds’ – which the Coalition has cut by around $1 billion, including almost $200 million in new cuts in Malcolm Turnbull’s 2016-17 Budget.
But under Malcolm Turnbull’s leadership, the Liberals have not given the program the funding certainty it deserves and existing funding is set to expire in June 2017. The program is particularly vulnerable because it’s financed from the Department of Health’s ‘Flexible Funds’ – which the Coalition has cut by around $1 billion, including almost $200 million in new cuts in Malcolm Turnbull’s 2016-17 Budget. In contrast, a Shorten Labor Government will safeguard this crucial program with funding across the usual four-year Budget cycle, and expand its reach.
The program is particularly vulnerable because it’s financed from the Department of Health’s ‘Flexible Funds’ – which the Coalition has cut by around $1 billion, including almost $200 million in new cuts in Malcolm Turnbull’s 2016-17 Budget. In contrast, a Shorten Labor Government will safeguard this crucial program with funding across the usual four-year Budget cycle, and expand its reach. Labor’s investment to support men with prostate cancer is further proof that only Labor believes that all Australians, no matter where they live or how much they earn, are entitled to the best possible health care, not just the care they can afford.
In contrast, a Shorten Labor Government will safeguard this crucial program with funding across the usual four-year Budget cycle, and expand its reach. Labor’s investment to support men with prostate cancer is further proof that only Labor believes that all Australians, no matter where they live or how much they earn, are entitled to the best possible health care, not just the care they can afford. POSITIVE POLICY
Labor’s investment to support men with prostate cancer is further proof that only Labor believes that all Australians, no matter where they live or how much they earn, are entitled to the best possible health care, not just the care they can afford. POSITIVE POLICY Labor Will End Malcolm Turnbull’s Medicines Price Hike
POSITIVE POLICY Labor Will End Malcolm Turnbull’s Medicines Price Hike Labor believes every Australian deserves access to affordable medicine.
Labor Will End Malcolm Turnbull’s Medicines Price Hike Labor believes every Australian deserves access to affordable medicine. For more than two years we have been fighting the Liberal Government’s unfair plan to drive up the cost of medicines and take this country down the path of the American health system.
Labor believes every Australian deserves access to affordable medicine. For more than two years we have been fighting the Liberal Government’s unfair plan to drive up the cost of medicines and take this country down the path of the American health system. Today we confirm that a Shorten Labor Government will scrap the Liberals’ medicines price hike and ensure healthcare remains affordable for every Australian.
For more than two years we have been fighting the Liberal Government’s unfair plan to drive up the cost of medicines and take this country down the path of the American health system. Today we confirm that a Shorten Labor Government will scrap the Liberals’ medicines price hike and ensure healthcare remains affordable for every Australian. In his horror 2014 Budget, Tony Abbott announced $1.3 billion in cuts to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), to be achieved by increasing co-payments and safety net thresholds.
Today we confirm that a Shorten Labor Government will scrap the Liberals’ medicines price hike and ensure healthcare remains affordable for every Australian. In his horror 2014 Budget, Tony Abbott announced $1.3 billion in cuts to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), to be achieved by increasing co-payments and safety net thresholds. This would see co-payments increase by $5 for general patients and by $0.80 for concessional patients.
In his horror 2014 Budget, Tony Abbott announced $1.3 billion in cuts to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), to be achieved by increasing co-payments and safety net thresholds. This would see co-payments increase by $5 for general patients and by $0.80 for concessional patients. The Liberals also plan to increase the PBS safety net thresholds each year for four years.
This would see co-payments increase by $5 for general patients and by $0.80 for concessional patients. The Liberals also plan to increase the PBS safety net thresholds each year for four years. This would see the general safety net thresholds increase by 10 per cent a year, and the concessional safety nets rise by the cost of two prescriptions a year.
The Liberals also plan to increase the PBS safety net thresholds each year for four years. This would see the general safety net thresholds increase by 10 per cent a year, and the concessional safety nets rise by the cost of two prescriptions a year. Malcolm Turnbull confirmed his commitment to these cuts by building them into his first budget earlier this month.
This would see the general safety net thresholds increase by 10 per cent a year, and the concessional safety nets rise by the cost of two prescriptions a year. Malcolm Turnbull confirmed his commitment to these cuts by building them into his first budget earlier this month. They would come on top of the existing annual indexation of copayments and safety net thresholds in line with the Consumer Price Index.
Malcolm Turnbull confirmed his commitment to these cuts by building them into his first budget earlier this month. They would come on top of the existing annual indexation of copayments and safety net thresholds in line with the Consumer Price Index. Labor will not stand by and let Malcolm Turnbull and the Liberals dismantle universal healthcare.
They would come on top of the existing annual indexation of copayments and safety net thresholds in line with the Consumer Price Index. Labor will not stand by and let Malcolm Turnbull and the Liberals dismantle universal healthcare. We will scrap the Liberals’ cuts to the PBS, ensuring there will be no increase to the co-payments or safety net thresholds on top of regular indexation.
Labor will not stand by and let Malcolm Turnbull and the Liberals dismantle universal healthcare. We will scrap the Liberals’ cuts to the PBS, ensuring there will be no increase to the co-payments or safety net thresholds on top of regular indexation. This means that under Labor, medicines will be more affordable than under Malcolm Turnbull.
We will scrap the Liberals’ cuts to the PBS, ensuring there will be no increase to the co-payments or safety net thresholds on top of regular indexation. This means that under Labor, medicines will be more affordable than under Malcolm Turnbull. Under a Shorten Labor Government, all Australians will continue to have access to affordable medicines.
This means that under Labor, medicines will be more affordable than under Malcolm Turnbull. Under a Shorten Labor Government, all Australians will continue to have access to affordable medicines. This will protect access for the most vulnerable – the poor, elderly and sick – who would be worst hit by the Liberals’ plans to cut the PBS.
Under a Shorten Labor Government, all Australians will continue to have access to affordable medicines. This will protect access for the most vulnerable – the poor, elderly and sick – who would be worst hit by the Liberals’ plans to cut the PBS. Our plan to keep medicines affordable has been costed by the independent Parliamentary Budget Office at $971 million over the next four years, and $3.6 billion over the decade.
This will protect access for the most vulnerable – the poor, elderly and sick – who would be worst hit by the Liberals’ plans to cut the PBS. Our plan to keep medicines affordable has been costed by the independent Parliamentary Budget Office at $971 million over the next four years, and $3.6 billion over the decade. Together with our plan to end the Government’s GP Tax by stealth, today’s announcement confirms only Labor will protect universal healthcare – for today and for future generations.
Our plan to keep medicines affordable has been costed by the independent Parliamentary Budget Office at $971 million over the next four years, and $3.6 billion over the decade. Together with our plan to end the Government’s GP Tax by stealth, today’s announcement confirms only Labor will protect universal healthcare – for today and for future generations. POSITIVE POLICY
Together with our plan to end the Government’s GP Tax by stealth, today’s announcement confirms only Labor will protect universal healthcare – for today and for future generations. POSITIVE POLICY Reforming Australia’s Healthcare System
POSITIVE POLICY Reforming Australia’s Healthcare System A Shorten Labor Government will establish a permanent Australian Healthcare Reform Commission to assist all levels of government to continuously improve our healthcare system.
Reforming Australia’s Healthcare System A Shorten Labor Government will establish a permanent Australian Healthcare Reform Commission to assist all levels of government to continuously improve our healthcare system. Within the Commission, Labor will establish a new Centre for Medicare and Healthcare System Innovation.
A Shorten Labor Government will establish a permanent Australian Healthcare Reform Commission to assist all levels of government to continuously improve our healthcare system. Within the Commission, Labor will establish a new Centre for Medicare and Healthcare System Innovation. The Centre will develop, trial, evaluate and implement new payment and service delivery models that aim to reduce health expenditure while improving the quality and safety of care.
Within the Commission, Labor will establish a new Centre for Medicare and Healthcare System Innovation. The Centre will develop, trial, evaluate and implement new payment and service delivery models that aim to reduce health expenditure while improving the quality and safety of care. The Centre will also take over the responsibilities of the MBS Review.
The Centre will develop, trial, evaluate and implement new payment and service delivery models that aim to reduce health expenditure while improving the quality and safety of care. The Centre will also take over the responsibilities of the MBS Review. Unlike the Liberals, Labor commits to ensuring that where there are any savings realised, they will be reinvested by the Centre into healthcare system innovation including new models of primary care.
The Centre will also take over the responsibilities of the MBS Review. Unlike the Liberals, Labor commits to ensuring that where there are any savings realised, they will be reinvested by the Centre into healthcare system innovation including new models of primary care. Labor has a long history of reforming Australia’s healthcare system for the benefit of all.
Unlike the Liberals, Labor commits to ensuring that where there are any savings realised, they will be reinvested by the Centre into healthcare system innovation including new models of primary care. Labor has a long history of reforming Australia’s healthcare system for the benefit of all. It is thanks to the work of successive Labor governments over the past 70 years that Australia boasts a world-class healthcare system.
Labor has a long history of reforming Australia’s healthcare system for the benefit of all. It is thanks to the work of successive Labor governments over the past 70 years that Australia boasts a world-class healthcare system. But Australia’s healthcare system is under increasing strain.
It is thanks to the work of successive Labor governments over the past 70 years that Australia boasts a world-class healthcare system. But Australia’s healthcare system is under increasing strain. Rising rates of chronic disease, an ageing population and the Turnbull Government’s reckless cuts are threatening the universality and sustainability of our system.
But Australia’s healthcare system is under increasing strain. Rising rates of chronic disease, an ageing population and the Turnbull Government’s reckless cuts are threatening the universality and sustainability of our system. There are also growing health disparities within our population: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience a higher burden of ill health that is two and a half times that of other Australians.
Rising rates of chronic disease, an ageing population and the Turnbull Government’s reckless cuts are threatening the universality and sustainability of our system. There are also growing health disparities within our population: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience a higher burden of ill health that is two and a half times that of other Australians. A 2014 review of mental health programs and services found that distressed and vulnerable people are often dealing with a system that is difficult to navigate and doesn’t always consider their education, employment, housing, and physical health care needs.
There are also growing health disparities within our population: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience a higher burden of ill health that is two and a half times that of other Australians. A 2014 review of mental health programs and services found that distressed and vulnerable people are often dealing with a system that is difficult to navigate and doesn’t always consider their education, employment, housing, and physical health care needs. People with physical disabilities and those who live in regional, rural and remote Australia continue to lag unacceptably behind.
A 2014 review of mental health programs and services found that distressed and vulnerable people are often dealing with a system that is difficult to navigate and doesn’t always consider their education, employment, housing, and physical health care needs. People with physical disabilities and those who live in regional, rural and remote Australia continue to lag unacceptably behind. Healthcare reform shouldn’t just be a term used by a government seeking to make cuts to healthcare.
People with physical disabilities and those who live in regional, rural and remote Australia continue to lag unacceptably behind. Healthcare reform shouldn’t just be a term used by a government seeking to make cuts to healthcare. If our healthcare system is to meet the changing and increasing healthcare needs of all Australians, we must have a continuing process of policy and program development, implementation, evaluation and monitoring.
Healthcare reform shouldn’t just be a term used by a government seeking to make cuts to healthcare. If our healthcare system is to meet the changing and increasing healthcare needs of all Australians, we must have a continuing process of policy and program development, implementation, evaluation and monitoring. Much like the successful National Health and Hospitals Commission, the new Commission will have a key advisory role.
If our healthcare system is to meet the changing and increasing healthcare needs of all Australians, we must have a continuing process of policy and program development, implementation, evaluation and monitoring. Much like the successful National Health and Hospitals Commission, the new Commission will have a key advisory role. It will investigate, develop and evaluate proposed changes to Australia’s health system, and advise governments (including State and Territory Governments) on these changes.
Much like the successful National Health and Hospitals Commission, the new Commission will have a key advisory role. It will investigate, develop and evaluate proposed changes to Australia’s health system, and advise governments (including State and Territory Governments) on these changes. The Australian Healthcare Reform Commission will also have a strong implementation capacity.
It will investigate, develop and evaluate proposed changes to Australia’s health system, and advise governments (including State and Territory Governments) on these changes. The Australian Healthcare Reform Commission will also have a strong implementation capacity. It will be tasked to roll out agreed structural reforms to Australia’s healthcare system, including funding agreements and payment systems.
The Australian Healthcare Reform Commission will also have a strong implementation capacity. It will be tasked to roll out agreed structural reforms to Australia’s healthcare system, including funding agreements and payment systems. The Australian Healthcare Reform Commission will embed reform in Australia’s healthcare system, by focussing on: Preserving universality.
It will be tasked to roll out agreed structural reforms to Australia’s healthcare system, including funding agreements and payment systems. The Australian Healthcare Reform Commission will embed reform in Australia’s healthcare system, by focussing on: Preserving universality. Reducing inequality.
The Australian Healthcare Reform Commission will embed reform in Australia’s healthcare system, by focussing on: Preserving universality. Reducing inequality. Eliminating waste and duplication.
Reducing inequality. Eliminating waste and duplication. Integrating services.
Eliminating waste and duplication. Integrating services. Improving the collection and use of data and analytics.
Integrating services. Improving the collection and use of data and analytics. The establishment of the Australian Healthcare Reform Commission and the Centre for Medicare and Healthcare System Innovation will ensure that we embed a constant process of reform in our healthcare, so that our world-class system can continue to meet the healthcare needs of Australians well into the future.
Improving the collection and use of data and analytics. The establishment of the Australian Healthcare Reform Commission and the Centre for Medicare and Healthcare System Innovation will ensure that we embed a constant process of reform in our healthcare, so that our world-class system can continue to meet the healthcare needs of Australians well into the future. The Commission will be created through the consolidation of the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care, the National Health Funding Body, and functions formerly associated with the Australian National Preventive Health Agency, Independent Hospital Pricing Authority, National Health Performance Authority and Health Workforce Australia which have been transferred to other agencies.
The establishment of the Australian Healthcare Reform Commission and the Centre for Medicare and Healthcare System Innovation will ensure that we embed a constant process of reform in our healthcare, so that our world-class system can continue to meet the healthcare needs of Australians well into the future. The Commission will be created through the consolidation of the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care, the National Health Funding Body, and functions formerly associated with the Australian National Preventive Health Agency, Independent Hospital Pricing Authority, National Health Performance Authority and Health Workforce Australia which have been transferred to other agencies. POSITIVE POLICY
The Commission will be created through the consolidation of the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care, the National Health Funding Body, and functions formerly associated with the Australian National Preventive Health Agency, Independent Hospital Pricing Authority, National Health Performance Authority and Health Workforce Australia which have been transferred to other agencies. POSITIVE POLICY Stronger Medicare: New Models of Care
POSITIVE POLICY Stronger Medicare: New Models of Care Because of Labor, Australia has one of the best health care systems in the world.
Stronger Medicare: New Models of Care Because of Labor, Australia has one of the best health care systems in the world. But Australia’s health care system continues to face significant challenges.
Because of Labor, Australia has one of the best health care systems in the world. But Australia’s health care system continues to face significant challenges. An ageing population, growing health inequality among many groups, as well as locations of disadvantage, means that Australia requires new approaches to care.
But Australia’s health care system continues to face significant challenges. An ageing population, growing health inequality among many groups, as well as locations of disadvantage, means that Australia requires new approaches to care. Labor is committed to continuously improving Medicare so it will meet the health care needs of Australians into the future.
An ageing population, growing health inequality among many groups, as well as locations of disadvantage, means that Australia requires new approaches to care. Labor is committed to continuously improving Medicare so it will meet the health care needs of Australians into the future. Labor will also provide an additional $100 million over two years to strengthen the frontline of Australia’s health care system – primary care.
Labor is committed to continuously improving Medicare so it will meet the health care needs of Australians into the future. Labor will also provide an additional $100 million over two years to strengthen the frontline of Australia’s health care system – primary care. Building a stronger primary care system will provide greater day to day health care for tens of thousands of Australians, meaning fewer people end up in hospital.
Labor will also provide an additional $100 million over two years to strengthen the frontline of Australia’s health care system – primary care. Building a stronger primary care system will provide greater day to day health care for tens of thousands of Australians, meaning fewer people end up in hospital. Labor’s investment will help develop new models of integrated primary care including the development of a unique Australian model of patient-centred medical homes – Your Family Doctor.
Building a stronger primary care system will provide greater day to day health care for tens of thousands of Australians, meaning fewer people end up in hospital. Labor’s investment will help develop new models of integrated primary care including the development of a unique Australian model of patient-centred medical homes – Your Family Doctor. Labor will ensure an appropriate mix of launch sites in metropolitan, regional and rural areas, so that the models developed meet the needs of all Australians.
Labor’s investment will help develop new models of integrated primary care including the development of a unique Australian model of patient-centred medical homes – Your Family Doctor. Labor will ensure an appropriate mix of launch sites in metropolitan, regional and rural areas, so that the models developed meet the needs of all Australians. Labor will task the new Centre for Medicare and Healthcare System Innovation, within the permanent Australian Healthcare Reform Commission, with developing specific models of innovative primary care.
Labor will ensure an appropriate mix of launch sites in metropolitan, regional and rural areas, so that the models developed meet the needs of all Australians. Labor will task the new Centre for Medicare and Healthcare System Innovation, within the permanent Australian Healthcare Reform Commission, with developing specific models of innovative primary care. It will do so in partnership with general practitioners, nurses, Primary Health Networks, Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, other primary care and allied health providers, consumers and other stakeholders.
Labor will task the new Centre for Medicare and Healthcare System Innovation, within the permanent Australian Healthcare Reform Commission, with developing specific models of innovative primary care. It will do so in partnership with general practitioners, nurses, Primary Health Networks, Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, other primary care and allied health providers, consumers and other stakeholders. This builds on our commitment to reverse Malcolm Turnbull’s GP Tax by stealth – his Medicare freeze - from 1 January 2017.
It will do so in partnership with general practitioners, nurses, Primary Health Networks, Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, other primary care and allied health providers, consumers and other stakeholders. This builds on our commitment to reverse Malcolm Turnbull’s GP Tax by stealth – his Medicare freeze - from 1 January 2017. Only a Shorten Labor Government will protect Medicare and ensure our primary care system keeps up with Australia’s changing health care needs.
This builds on our commitment to reverse Malcolm Turnbull’s GP Tax by stealth – his Medicare freeze - from 1 January 2017. Only a Shorten Labor Government will protect Medicare and ensure our primary care system keeps up with Australia’s changing health care needs. POSITIVE POLICY
Only a Shorten Labor Government will protect Medicare and ensure our primary care system keeps up with Australia’s changing health care needs. POSITIVE POLICY Stronger Medicare: Strengthening Hospitals
POSITIVE POLICY Stronger Medicare: Strengthening Hospitals Every Australian should have access to affordable, quality health care when and where they need it.
Stronger Medicare: Strengthening Hospitals Every Australian should have access to affordable, quality health care when and where they need it. Hospitals are at the heart of Medicare: Australia’s world-class universal health care system.
Every Australian should have access to affordable, quality health care when and where they need it. Hospitals are at the heart of Medicare: Australia’s world-class universal health care system. A Shorten Labor Government will reduce waiting times for elective surgery and emergency departments, invest in hospitals and protect Medicare so Australia has the strong health system we need for the future.
Hospitals are at the heart of Medicare: Australia’s world-class universal health care system. A Shorten Labor Government will reduce waiting times for elective surgery and emergency departments, invest in hospitals and protect Medicare so Australia has the strong health system we need for the future. Labor will also ramp up investment in health care at the frontline – so fewer Australians end up in hospital in the first place.
A Shorten Labor Government will reduce waiting times for elective surgery and emergency departments, invest in hospitals and protect Medicare so Australia has the strong health system we need for the future. Labor will also ramp up investment in health care at the frontline – so fewer Australians end up in hospital in the first place. All Australians deserve access to the best possible health care when they need it – determined by their Medicare card, not their credit card.
Labor will also ramp up investment in health care at the frontline – so fewer Australians end up in hospital in the first place. All Australians deserve access to the best possible health care when they need it – determined by their Medicare card, not their credit card. That’s why a Shorten Labor Government will restore the National Health Reform Agreement for four years, at the originally agreed funding formula of 50 per cent of growth in costs based on the National Efficient Price, and provide additional support to the States and Territories to reduce waiting times for elective surgery and in public hospital emergency departments.
All Australians deserve access to the best possible health care when they need it – determined by their Medicare card, not their credit card. That’s why a Shorten Labor Government will restore the National Health Reform Agreement for four years, at the originally agreed funding formula of 50 per cent of growth in costs based on the National Efficient Price, and provide additional support to the States and Territories to reduce waiting times for elective surgery and in public hospital emergency departments. This will boost hospital funding by $2 billion more than the Liberals over the next four years, and drive efficiency by funding the States and Territories on the basis of the actual services performed.
That’s why a Shorten Labor Government will restore the National Health Reform Agreement for four years, at the originally agreed funding formula of 50 per cent of growth in costs based on the National Efficient Price, and provide additional support to the States and Territories to reduce waiting times for elective surgery and in public hospital emergency departments. This will boost hospital funding by $2 billion more than the Liberals over the next four years, and drive efficiency by funding the States and Territories on the basis of the actual services performed. This will mean reduced hospital waiting times, more beds, more doctors and nurses.
This will boost hospital funding by $2 billion more than the Liberals over the next four years, and drive efficiency by funding the States and Territories on the basis of the actual services performed. This will mean reduced hospital waiting times, more beds, more doctors and nurses. Hospitals that perform services more efficiently are able to use additional funding to invest in service improvement.
This will mean reduced hospital waiting times, more beds, more doctors and nurses. Hospitals that perform services more efficiently are able to use additional funding to invest in service improvement. The Liberals went to the election promising no cuts to health – and then they inflicted savage cuts to our hospitals.
Hospitals that perform services more efficiently are able to use additional funding to invest in service improvement. The Liberals went to the election promising no cuts to health – and then they inflicted savage cuts to our hospitals. The Liberals scrapped Labor’s National Health Reform Agreement and returned to an outdated model of indexation, which saw cuts to hospitals across the country.
The Liberals went to the election promising no cuts to health – and then they inflicted savage cuts to our hospitals. The Liberals scrapped Labor’s National Health Reform Agreement and returned to an outdated model of indexation, which saw cuts to hospitals across the country. They have recently been forced to admit that Labor’s reforms were right all along – but failed to match Labor’s investment, committing just 45 per cent of growth in efficient costs.
The Liberals scrapped Labor’s National Health Reform Agreement and returned to an outdated model of indexation, which saw cuts to hospitals across the country. They have recently been forced to admit that Labor’s reforms were right all along – but failed to match Labor’s investment, committing just 45 per cent of growth in efficient costs. While Labor’s new commitment does not restore all of the funding ripped out by the Liberals, it restores Labor’s agreement for the next four years and provides certainty for a new agreement to be negotiated under a Labor Government.
They have recently been forced to admit that Labor’s reforms were right all along – but failed to match Labor’s investment, committing just 45 per cent of growth in efficient costs. While Labor’s new commitment does not restore all of the funding ripped out by the Liberals, it restores Labor’s agreement for the next four years and provides certainty for a new agreement to be negotiated under a Labor Government. POSITIVE POLICY
While Labor’s new commitment does not restore all of the funding ripped out by the Liberals, it restores Labor’s agreement for the next four years and provides certainty for a new agreement to be negotiated under a Labor Government. POSITIVE POLICY An Age-Friendly Nation
POSITIVE POLICY An Age-Friendly Nation A Shorten Labor Government will appoint a Minister for Ageing and develop a National Strategy for an Ageing Australia to ensure Australia becomes an age-friendly nation.
An Age-Friendly Nation A Shorten Labor Government will appoint a Minister for Ageing and develop a National Strategy for an Ageing Australia to ensure Australia becomes an age-friendly nation. For Australia to realise the opportunities and meet the challenges presented by an ageing population, Government action is needed.
A Shorten Labor Government will appoint a Minister for Ageing and develop a National Strategy for an Ageing Australia to ensure Australia becomes an age-friendly nation. For Australia to realise the opportunities and meet the challenges presented by an ageing population, Government action is needed. An age-friendly Australia needs to:  Have a whole-of-Government approach, under the direction of a dedicated Minister for Ageing.
For Australia to realise the opportunities and meet the challenges presented by an ageing population, Government action is needed. An age-friendly Australia needs to:  Have a whole-of-Government approach, under the direction of a dedicated Minister for Ageing. Promote and support active ageing.
An age-friendly Australia needs to:  Have a whole-of-Government approach, under the direction of a dedicated Minister for Ageing. Promote and support active ageing. Undertake an independent, transparent and thorough review of the aged care reforms, with a focus on funding models.
Promote and support active ageing. Undertake an independent, transparent and thorough review of the aged care reforms, with a focus on funding models. Develop an aged care workforce strategy.
Undertake an independent, transparent and thorough review of the aged care reforms, with a focus on funding models. Develop an aged care workforce strategy. The Liberals see our ageing population as a burden rather than an opportunity.
Develop an aged care workforce strategy. The Liberals see our ageing population as a burden rather than an opportunity. They have not appointed a Minister for Ageing.
The Liberals see our ageing population as a burden rather than an opportunity. They have not appointed a Minister for Ageing. They have seen aged care as nothing but a savings option – cutting its funding in each of their Budgets – most recently $1.2 billion in the 2016 Budget.
They have not appointed a Minister for Ageing. They have seen aged care as nothing but a savings option – cutting its funding in each of their Budgets – most recently $1.2 billion in the 2016 Budget. Labor sees things very differently.
They have seen aged care as nothing but a savings option – cutting its funding in each of their Budgets – most recently $1.2 billion in the 2016 Budget. Labor sees things very differently. In 2012, Labor delivered one of the biggest reforms to aged care and ageing in a generation – the $3.7 billion, ten-year strategy known as the Living Longer, Living Better (LLLB) aged care package.
Labor sees things very differently. In 2012, Labor delivered one of the biggest reforms to aged care and ageing in a generation – the $3.7 billion, ten-year strategy known as the Living Longer, Living Better (LLLB) aged care package. These reforms were designed to build a fairer, more sustainable and nationally consistent aged care system to meet the challenges of an ageing population.
In 2012, Labor delivered one of the biggest reforms to aged care and ageing in a generation – the $3.7 billion, ten-year strategy known as the Living Longer, Living Better (LLLB) aged care package. These reforms were designed to build a fairer, more sustainable and nationally consistent aged care system to meet the challenges of an ageing population. Today, these reforms are delivering choice, easier access and better care for older Australians, their families and carers, while ensuring the aged care and services industry is equipped to deal with the dramatic growth in our ageing population.
These reforms were designed to build a fairer, more sustainable and nationally consistent aged care system to meet the challenges of an ageing population. Today, these reforms are delivering choice, easier access and better care for older Australians, their families and carers, while ensuring the aged care and services industry is equipped to deal with the dramatic growth in our ageing population. But there is more to do.
Today, these reforms are delivering choice, easier access and better care for older Australians, their families and carers, while ensuring the aged care and services industry is equipped to deal with the dramatic growth in our ageing population. But there is more to do. A Shorten Labor Government will: Address ongoing problems in the My Aged Care gateway in the first 100 days of Government, in consultation with the aged care sector, consumers and medical and allied health providers.
But there is more to do. A Shorten Labor Government will: Address ongoing problems in the My Aged Care gateway in the first 100 days of Government, in consultation with the aged care sector, consumers and medical and allied health providers. Conduct an independent review of the LLLB reforms with a view to moving to greater flexibility, choice and consumer control by 1 July 2017, with a particular focus on the Aged Care Funding Instrument, following concerns raised by the sector and growing costs in this area.
A Shorten Labor Government will: Address ongoing problems in the My Aged Care gateway in the first 100 days of Government, in consultation with the aged care sector, consumers and medical and allied health providers. Conduct an independent review of the LLLB reforms with a view to moving to greater flexibility, choice and consumer control by 1 July 2017, with a particular focus on the Aged Care Funding Instrument, following concerns raised by the sector and growing costs in this area. Work with the aged care sector and unions to ensure we can meet the challenges of the increasing need for aged care workers, as well as career progression and conditions for this low paid and predominantly female workforce.
Conduct an independent review of the LLLB reforms with a view to moving to greater flexibility, choice and consumer control by 1 July 2017, with a particular focus on the Aged Care Funding Instrument, following concerns raised by the sector and growing costs in this area. Work with the aged care sector and unions to ensure we can meet the challenges of the increasing need for aged care workers, as well as career progression and conditions for this low paid and predominantly female workforce. Establish the Active Ageing Fund to support programs to reduce the risk of dementia, prevent falls, improve physical activities and healthy lifestyles - enabling older Australians to age well in their own communities, at home and at work.
Work with the aged care sector and unions to ensure we can meet the challenges of the increasing need for aged care workers, as well as career progression and conditions for this low paid and predominantly female workforce. Establish the Active Ageing Fund to support programs to reduce the risk of dementia, prevent falls, improve physical activities and healthy lifestyles - enabling older Australians to age well in their own communities, at home and at work. Labor believes that longer lives are one of the greatest achievements of the 20th Century, and that longevity will define the 21st Century.
Establish the Active Ageing Fund to support programs to reduce the risk of dementia, prevent falls, improve physical activities and healthy lifestyles - enabling older Australians to age well in their own communities, at home and at work. Labor believes that longer lives are one of the greatest achievements of the 20th Century, and that longevity will define the 21st Century. Labor is committed to ensuring that Australia becomes an age-friendly nation.
Labor believes that longer lives are one of the greatest achievements of the 20th Century, and that longevity will define the 21st Century. Labor is committed to ensuring that Australia becomes an age-friendly nation. POSITIVE POLICY
Labor is committed to ensuring that Australia becomes an age-friendly nation. POSITIVE POLICY Supporting Australians To Die Well
POSITIVE POLICY Supporting Australians To Die Well New Approaches To Palliative Care
Supporting Australians To Die Well New Approaches To Palliative Care A Shorten Labor Government will help support Australians to exercise greater choice and control over how and where they live their final days by investing in new models of palliative care.
New Approaches To Palliative Care A Shorten Labor Government will help support Australians to exercise greater choice and control over how and where they live their final days by investing in new models of palliative care. Right now, many Australians are not able to choose where and how they are cared for before they die.
A Shorten Labor Government will help support Australians to exercise greater choice and control over how and where they live their final days by investing in new models of palliative care. Right now, many Australians are not able to choose where and how they are cared for before they die. According to the Grattan Institute, up to 70 per cent of Australians want to die at home, but only 14 per cent do so.
Right now, many Australians are not able to choose where and how they are cared for before they die. According to the Grattan Institute, up to 70 per cent of Australians want to die at home, but only 14 per cent do so. More than half of Australians die in hospitals and around a third die in nursing homes.
According to the Grattan Institute, up to 70 per cent of Australians want to die at home, but only 14 per cent do so. More than half of Australians die in hospitals and around a third die in nursing homes. Unfortunately, the rate of hospitalisation is increasing.
More than half of Australians die in hospitals and around a third die in nursing homes. Unfortunately, the rate of hospitalisation is increasing. Labor is committed to improving palliative care in all settings, and to helping all Australians be as comfortable as possible at the end of their life.
Unfortunately, the rate of hospitalisation is increasing. Labor is committed to improving palliative care in all settings, and to helping all Australians be as comfortable as possible at the end of their life. That is why a Shorten Labor Government will invest $35 million over four years to roll out new models of palliative care.
Labor is committed to improving palliative care in all settings, and to helping all Australians be as comfortable as possible at the end of their life. That is why a Shorten Labor Government will invest $35 million over four years to roll out new models of palliative care. Labor new approach to palliative care will include: $21.7 million for new Palliative Care at Home packages.
That is why a Shorten Labor Government will invest $35 million over four years to roll out new models of palliative care. Labor new approach to palliative care will include: $21.7 million for new Palliative Care at Home packages. Under these packages, five Primary Health Networks (PHNs) will be funded to commission the services that Australians need to stay at home at the end of their lives.
Labor new approach to palliative care will include: $21.7 million for new Palliative Care at Home packages. Under these packages, five Primary Health Networks (PHNs) will be funded to commission the services that Australians need to stay at home at the end of their lives. $9 million over four years to roll out the Proactive Palliative Care model.
Under these packages, five Primary Health Networks (PHNs) will be funded to commission the services that Australians need to stay at home at the end of their lives. $9 million over four years to roll out the Proactive Palliative Care model. Labor’s Proactive Palliative Care package will fund palliative specialists to partner with residential aged care facilities to promote palliative and end-of-life care, and lead case conferencing where appropriate.
$9 million over four years to roll out the Proactive Palliative Care model. Labor’s Proactive Palliative Care package will fund palliative specialists to partner with residential aged care facilities to promote palliative and end-of-life care, and lead case conferencing where appropriate. Working with the states and territories, through the Council of Australian Governments, to expand the use of consistent advanced care directives across Australia.
Labor’s Proactive Palliative Care package will fund palliative specialists to partner with residential aged care facilities to promote palliative and end-of-life care, and lead case conferencing where appropriate. Working with the states and territories, through the Council of Australian Governments, to expand the use of consistent advanced care directives across Australia. $2.3 million over three years to allow Palliative Care Tasmania to continue its important work.
Working with the states and territories, through the Council of Australian Governments, to expand the use of consistent advanced care directives across Australia. $2.3 million over three years to allow Palliative Care Tasmania to continue its important work. $1 million over three years to fund Palliative Care Australia to improve paediatric palliative care support, including to: Develop new resources for families, such as on talking to terminally ill children and their siblings about death.
$2.3 million over three years to allow Palliative Care Tasmania to continue its important work. $1 million over three years to fund Palliative Care Australia to improve paediatric palliative care support, including to: Develop new resources for families, such as on talking to terminally ill children and their siblings about death. Create an online community for the families of terminally ill children, so that parents and carers are less isolated.
$1 million over three years to fund Palliative Care Australia to improve paediatric palliative care support, including to: Develop new resources for families, such as on talking to terminally ill children and their siblings about death. Create an online community for the families of terminally ill children, so that parents and carers are less isolated. Build evidence on paediatric palliative care needs across Australia, to address current gaps and plan services and supports for the future.
Create an online community for the families of terminally ill children, so that parents and carers are less isolated. Build evidence on paediatric palliative care needs across Australia, to address current gaps and plan services and supports for the future. Labor is committed to ensuring that all Australians is comfortable and able to live their final days in the circumstances of their choice.
Build evidence on paediatric palliative care needs across Australia, to address current gaps and plan services and supports for the future. Labor is committed to ensuring that all Australians is comfortable and able to live their final days in the circumstances of their choice. POSITIVE POLICY
Labor is committed to ensuring that all Australians is comfortable and able to live their final days in the circumstances of their choice. POSITIVE POLICY Life-Saving Ovarian Cancer Research
POSITIVE POLICY Life-Saving Ovarian Cancer Research A Shorten Labor Government will invest $8 million over the next four years to make Australia a world leader in life-saving ovarian cancer research.
Life-Saving Ovarian Cancer Research A Shorten Labor Government will invest $8 million over the next four years to make Australia a world leader in life-saving ovarian cancer research. Ovarian cancer is the second-most common women's cancer in Australia with almost 1,500 women diagnosed every year.
A Shorten Labor Government will invest $8 million over the next four years to make Australia a world leader in life-saving ovarian cancer research. Ovarian cancer is the second-most common women's cancer in Australia with almost 1,500 women diagnosed every year. Mortality is very high and is not improving at a fast enough rate.
Ovarian cancer is the second-most common women's cancer in Australia with almost 1,500 women diagnosed every year. Mortality is very high and is not improving at a fast enough rate. Around 1,000 Australian women die from the disease every year.
Mortality is very high and is not improving at a fast enough rate. Around 1,000 Australian women die from the disease every year. While Australia's overall cancer survival rates are the best in the world, just 43 out of every 100 women are still alive five years after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
Around 1,000 Australian women die from the disease every year. While Australia's overall cancer survival rates are the best in the world, just 43 out of every 100 women are still alive five years after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer. With no screening test to aid detection and prevention, most women remain unaware they have ovarian cancer until the disease is at a very advanced stage with little hope of cure.
While Australia's overall cancer survival rates are the best in the world, just 43 out of every 100 women are still alive five years after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer. With no screening test to aid detection and prevention, most women remain unaware they have ovarian cancer until the disease is at a very advanced stage with little hope of cure. The symptoms are hard to spot and are often mistaken for women simply feeling tired or rundown or going through menopause.
With no screening test to aid detection and prevention, most women remain unaware they have ovarian cancer until the disease is at a very advanced stage with little hope of cure. The symptoms are hard to spot and are often mistaken for women simply feeling tired or rundown or going through menopause. Through research done here in Australia we now know that ovarian cancer is not just one disease, but a complex range of diseases with different characteristics.
The symptoms are hard to spot and are often mistaken for women simply feeling tired or rundown or going through menopause. Through research done here in Australia we now know that ovarian cancer is not just one disease, but a complex range of diseases with different characteristics. However, it is still largely being treated as one disease with limited treatment options available.
Through research done here in Australia we now know that ovarian cancer is not just one disease, but a complex range of diseases with different characteristics. However, it is still largely being treated as one disease with limited treatment options available. More work needs to be done to save the lives of Australian women.
However, it is still largely being treated as one disease with limited treatment options available. More work needs to be done to save the lives of Australian women. Labor’s $8 million investment will deliver on the recommendations of the National Action Plan for Ovarian Cancer Research to deliver an effective and focused research funding strategy.
More work needs to be done to save the lives of Australian women. Labor’s $8 million investment will deliver on the recommendations of the National Action Plan for Ovarian Cancer Research to deliver an effective and focused research funding strategy. It will provide better outcomes for women through a collaborative approach between funders, research organisations, researchers, and clinicians together with meaningful patient involvement.
Labor’s $8 million investment will deliver on the recommendations of the National Action Plan for Ovarian Cancer Research to deliver an effective and focused research funding strategy. It will provide better outcomes for women through a collaborative approach between funders, research organisations, researchers, and clinicians together with meaningful patient involvement. Labor’s investment supports Ovarian Cancer Australia’s 25/25 Vision to reduce the incidence of ovarian cancer by 25 per cent and to improve the five-year survival rate of women affected by ovarian cancer by 25 per cent by the year 2025.
It will provide better outcomes for women through a collaborative approach between funders, research organisations, researchers, and clinicians together with meaningful patient involvement. Labor’s investment supports Ovarian Cancer Australia’s 25/25 Vision to reduce the incidence of ovarian cancer by 25 per cent and to improve the five-year survival rate of women affected by ovarian cancer by 25 per cent by the year 2025. Ovarian Cancer Australia will use this investment to leverage matched funding for all research initiatives.
Labor’s investment supports Ovarian Cancer Australia’s 25/25 Vision to reduce the incidence of ovarian cancer by 25 per cent and to improve the five-year survival rate of women affected by ovarian cancer by 25 per cent by the year 2025. Ovarian Cancer Australia will use this investment to leverage matched funding for all research initiatives. In Government, Labor invested more than $3.5 billion to combat cancer.
Ovarian Cancer Australia will use this investment to leverage matched funding for all research initiatives. In Government, Labor invested more than $3.5 billion to combat cancer. A Shorten Labor Government will build on this record through investments like $8 million for life-saving ovarian cancer research.
In Government, Labor invested more than $3.5 billion to combat cancer. A Shorten Labor Government will build on this record through investments like $8 million for life-saving ovarian cancer research. Labor has also announced that it will extend and expand funding for Breast Cancer Network Australia and double the number of prostate cancer specialist nurses funded by the federal Government.
A Shorten Labor Government will build on this record through investments like $8 million for life-saving ovarian cancer research. Labor has also announced that it will extend and expand funding for Breast Cancer Network Australia and double the number of prostate cancer specialist nurses funded by the federal Government. POSITIVE POLICY
Labor has also announced that it will extend and expand funding for Breast Cancer Network Australia and double the number of prostate cancer specialist nurses funded by the federal Government. POSITIVE POLICY National Plan for Excellence in Perinatal Mental Health
POSITIVE POLICY National Plan for Excellence in Perinatal Mental Health A Shorten Labor Government will establish a universal perinatal depression screening program for every expectant woman and new mother across Australia.
National Plan for Excellence in Perinatal Mental Health A Shorten Labor Government will establish a universal perinatal depression screening program for every expectant woman and new mother across Australia. Labor believes every child should have the best start at life and new parents should be supported through what can be a very challenging time of transition in their lives.
A Shorten Labor Government will establish a universal perinatal depression screening program for every expectant woman and new mother across Australia. Labor believes every child should have the best start at life and new parents should be supported through what can be a very challenging time of transition in their lives. Perinatal depression is a quiet, under-reported epidemic in Australia and is a significant cause of maternal death and disability.
Labor believes every child should have the best start at life and new parents should be supported through what can be a very challenging time of transition in their lives. Perinatal depression is a quiet, under-reported epidemic in Australia and is a significant cause of maternal death and disability. The evidence shows that up to one in ten women experience depression in pregnancy and that this increases to one in seven in the postnatal period.
Perinatal depression is a quiet, under-reported epidemic in Australia and is a significant cause of maternal death and disability. The evidence shows that up to one in ten women experience depression in pregnancy and that this increases to one in seven in the postnatal period. Rates of anxiety are likely to be even higher.
The evidence shows that up to one in ten women experience depression in pregnancy and that this increases to one in seven in the postnatal period. Rates of anxiety are likely to be even higher. Men are also affected. According to Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA) up to one in 20 men experience postnatal depression.
Rates of anxiety are likely to be even higher. Men are also affected. According to Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA) up to one in 20 men experience postnatal depression. Research also indicates that 74 per cent of mothers with pre and/or postnatal depression or anxiety do not seek help until they reach the point that they cannot cope.
Men are also affected. According to Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA) up to one in 20 men experience postnatal depression. Research also indicates that 74 per cent of mothers with pre and/or postnatal depression or anxiety do not seek help until they reach the point that they cannot cope. Labor’s National Plan will: Ensure that all pregnant women are screened to identify their risk of perinatal depression and the presence of possible symptoms, in a cost efficient and sustainable way.
Research also indicates that 74 per cent of mothers with pre and/or postnatal depression or anxiety do not seek help until they reach the point that they cannot cope. Labor’s National Plan will: Ensure that all pregnant women are screened to identify their risk of perinatal depression and the presence of possible symptoms, in a cost efficient and sustainable way. Empower women and families with tailored information to guide and support them.
Labor’s National Plan will: Ensure that all pregnant women are screened to identify their risk of perinatal depression and the presence of possible symptoms, in a cost efficient and sustainable way. Empower women and families with tailored information to guide and support them. Facilitate best practice early intervention, treatment and support.
Empower women and families with tailored information to guide and support them. Facilitate best practice early intervention, treatment and support. Integrate screening results into the My Health Record to ensure seamless referrals to health practitioners.
Facilitate best practice early intervention, treatment and support. Integrate screening results into the My Health Record to ensure seamless referrals to health practitioners. Collect consistent national data to support monitoring, evaluation, awareness raising, research, education and continued destigmatisation activities.
Integrate screening results into the My Health Record to ensure seamless referrals to health practitioners. Collect consistent national data to support monitoring, evaluation, awareness raising, research, education and continued destigmatisation activities. Encourage private practitioners to adopt screening as a key element of a woman’s perinatal care.
Collect consistent national data to support monitoring, evaluation, awareness raising, research, education and continued destigmatisation activities. Encourage private practitioners to adopt screening as a key element of a woman’s perinatal care. Despite all the evidence of the prevalence of perinatal depression and anxiety in Australia and the known cost of not treating the condition being estimated at $538 million per annum, the Abbott-Turnbull Government abolished the National Perinatal Depression Initiative in 2015.
Encourage private practitioners to adopt screening as a key element of a woman’s perinatal care. Despite all the evidence of the prevalence of perinatal depression and anxiety in Australia and the known cost of not treating the condition being estimated at $538 million per annum, the Abbott-Turnbull Government abolished the National Perinatal Depression Initiative in 2015. Labor's National Plan for Excellence in Perinatal Mental Health will reinstate a digital screening program and follow-up support for new parents in the perinatal period across all public hospitals, maternal and child health clinics and in other health services providing care to pregnant women in regional and remote areas of Australia.
Despite all the evidence of the prevalence of perinatal depression and anxiety in Australia and the known cost of not treating the condition being estimated at $538 million per annum, the Abbott-Turnbull Government abolished the National Perinatal Depression Initiative in 2015. Labor's National Plan for Excellence in Perinatal Mental Health will reinstate a digital screening program and follow-up support for new parents in the perinatal period across all public hospitals, maternal and child health clinics and in other health services providing care to pregnant women in regional and remote areas of Australia. The 5-year program has been independently costed by the Parliamentary Budget Office at $20 million and will be rolled out with the support of State, Territory and local governments to ensure that every woman in Australia can be supported during pregnancy and in the critical first year of a baby's life.
Labor's National Plan for Excellence in Perinatal Mental Health will reinstate a digital screening program and follow-up support for new parents in the perinatal period across all public hospitals, maternal and child health clinics and in other health services providing care to pregnant women in regional and remote areas of Australia. The 5-year program has been independently costed by the Parliamentary Budget Office at $20 million and will be rolled out with the support of State, Territory and local governments to ensure that every woman in Australia can be supported during pregnancy and in the critical first year of a baby's life. Only Labor will prioritise perinatal mental health of new mums and dads so that their babies can get the best start in life.
The 5-year program has been independently costed by the Parliamentary Budget Office at $20 million and will be rolled out with the support of State, Territory and local governments to ensure that every woman in Australia can be supported during pregnancy and in the critical first year of a baby's life. Only Labor will prioritise perinatal mental health of new mums and dads so that their babies can get the best start in life. POSITIVE POLICY
Only Labor will prioritise perinatal mental health of new mums and dads so that their babies can get the best start in life. POSITIVE POLICY Labor Will Reverse Cuts To Medicare For Pathology And Imaging
POSITIVE POLICY Labor Will Reverse Cuts To Medicare For Pathology And Imaging A Shorten Labor Government will reverse Malcolm Turnbull's cuts to bulk billing incentives for pathology and diagnostic imaging.
Labor Will Reverse Cuts To Medicare For Pathology And Imaging A Shorten Labor Government will reverse Malcolm Turnbull's cuts to bulk billing incentives for pathology and diagnostic imaging. In the 2015-16 Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal outlook, Mr Turnbull cut $650 million from Medicare from vital tests and scans.
A Shorten Labor Government will reverse Malcolm Turnbull's cuts to bulk billing incentives for pathology and diagnostic imaging. In the 2015-16 Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal outlook, Mr Turnbull cut $650 million from Medicare from vital tests and scans. Mr Turnbull's cut came in spite of the overwhelming evidence that the former Labor Government’s incentives are achieving their aim of maintaining or increasing bulk billing.
In the 2015-16 Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal outlook, Mr Turnbull cut $650 million from Medicare from vital tests and scans. Mr Turnbull's cut came in spite of the overwhelming evidence that the former Labor Government’s incentives are achieving their aim of maintaining or increasing bulk billing. In diagnostic imaging, for example, bulk billing rates rose 10 points in just six years thanks to Labor's measure.
Mr Turnbull's cut came in spite of the overwhelming evidence that the former Labor Government’s incentives are achieving their aim of maintaining or increasing bulk billing. In diagnostic imaging, for example, bulk billing rates rose 10 points in just six years thanks to Labor's measure. Labor's measure gives pathologists and radiologists a specific incentive to bulk bill.
In diagnostic imaging, for example, bulk billing rates rose 10 points in just six years thanks to Labor's measure. Labor's measure gives pathologists and radiologists a specific incentive to bulk bill. Without it, bulk billing will fall, co-payments will rise, and patients will be forced to pay more for tests and scans - or skip them altogether.
Labor's measure gives pathologists and radiologists a specific incentive to bulk bill. Without it, bulk billing will fall, co-payments will rise, and patients will be forced to pay more for tests and scans - or skip them altogether. This would mean worse health outcomes for patients and higher costs to our health system.
Without it, bulk billing will fall, co-payments will rise, and patients will be forced to pay more for tests and scans - or skip them altogether. This would mean worse health outcomes for patients and higher costs to our health system. It is vital that patients are not turned away from care because of their ability to pay.
This would mean worse health outcomes for patients and higher costs to our health system. It is vital that patients are not turned away from care because of their ability to pay. POSITIVE POLICY
It is vital that patients are not turned away from care because of their ability to pay. POSITIVE POLICY A New National Drug Strategy
POSITIVE POLICY A New National Drug Strategy A Shorten Labor Government will invest in a new National Drug Strategy – one that is proven to work.
A New National Drug Strategy A Shorten Labor Government will invest in a new National Drug Strategy – one that is proven to work. As Ken Lay, Chair of the National Ice Taskforce, has previously said, we can’t arrest our way out of this problem.
A Shorten Labor Government will invest in a new National Drug Strategy – one that is proven to work. As Ken Lay, Chair of the National Ice Taskforce, has previously said, we can’t arrest our way out of this problem. Labor agrees.
As Ken Lay, Chair of the National Ice Taskforce, has previously said, we can’t arrest our way out of this problem. Labor agrees. In addition to a strong response from police and the justice system, we need to focus on treatment, prevention and harm minimisation to tackle this issue.
Labor agrees. In addition to a strong response from police and the justice system, we need to focus on treatment, prevention and harm minimisation to tackle this issue. Our approach is based on evidence from the frontline about what actually works.
In addition to a strong response from police and the justice system, we need to focus on treatment, prevention and harm minimisation to tackle this issue. Our approach is based on evidence from the frontline about what actually works. With a $31.8 million investment, we will deliver smart, cost-effective policies that help vulnerable communities in the grip of illicit drug abuse.
Our approach is based on evidence from the frontline about what actually works. With a $31.8 million investment, we will deliver smart, cost-effective policies that help vulnerable communities in the grip of illicit drug abuse. The first thing we want to do is to make it easier for a person to find a treatment service than a drug dealer.
With a $31.8 million investment, we will deliver smart, cost-effective policies that help vulnerable communities in the grip of illicit drug abuse. The first thing we want to do is to make it easier for a person to find a treatment service than a drug dealer. We will work with the States and Territories and with the treatment sector to ensure that people who want to turn their life around don’t have to wait six months or more for a treatment service.
The first thing we want to do is to make it easier for a person to find a treatment service than a drug dealer. We will work with the States and Territories and with the treatment sector to ensure that people who want to turn their life around don’t have to wait six months or more for a treatment service. Labor’s evidence-based approach includes: Providing long-term funding security to treatment services so that they can get on with the job and plan for the future.
We will work with the States and Territories and with the treatment sector to ensure that people who want to turn their life around don’t have to wait six months or more for a treatment service. Labor’s evidence-based approach includes: Providing long-term funding security to treatment services so that they can get on with the job and plan for the future. Restore expert advice bodies axed by the Liberal Government.
Labor’s evidence-based approach includes: Providing long-term funding security to treatment services so that they can get on with the job and plan for the future. Restore expert advice bodies axed by the Liberal Government. Boost the treatment workforce so that every person seeking help gets the support they need.
Restore expert advice bodies axed by the Liberal Government. Boost the treatment workforce so that every person seeking help gets the support they need. Update our harm minimisation strategies to reflect new risks for people using illicit drugs.
Boost the treatment workforce so that every person seeking help gets the support they need. Update our harm minimisation strategies to reflect new risks for people using illicit drugs. This builds on our announcement that a Shorten Labor Government will invest $18.2 million to implement a package of measures to tackle Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.
Update our harm minimisation strategies to reflect new risks for people using illicit drugs. This builds on our announcement that a Shorten Labor Government will invest $18.2 million to implement a package of measures to tackle Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. When it comes to solutions for tackling substance misuse the Abbott-Turnbull Government has missed the mark again and again.
This builds on our announcement that a Shorten Labor Government will invest $18.2 million to implement a package of measures to tackle Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. When it comes to solutions for tackling substance misuse the Abbott-Turnbull Government has missed the mark again and again. Although funds have been dedicated to tackling ice use, the treatment sector remains in an overall state of chaos.
When it comes to solutions for tackling substance misuse the Abbott-Turnbull Government has missed the mark again and again. Although funds have been dedicated to tackling ice use, the treatment sector remains in an overall state of chaos. NGO treatment services have only been offered a temporary one-year funding extension for a second year in a row, which makes it difficult for them to hire and retain the skilled staff they need to meet rising demand.
Although funds have been dedicated to tackling ice use, the treatment sector remains in an overall state of chaos. NGO treatment services have only been offered a temporary one-year funding extension for a second year in a row, which makes it difficult for them to hire and retain the skilled staff they need to meet rising demand. The substance misuse funds that support treatment services and prevention strategies have been cut and urgent warnings from experts in the sector ignored.
NGO treatment services have only been offered a temporary one-year funding extension for a second year in a row, which makes it difficult for them to hire and retain the skilled staff they need to meet rising demand. The substance misuse funds that support treatment services and prevention strategies have been cut and urgent warnings from experts in the sector ignored. Harm reduction is the poor cousin in Australia’s current National Drug Strategy and has been given the silent treatment by this Government.
The substance misuse funds that support treatment services and prevention strategies have been cut and urgent warnings from experts in the sector ignored. Harm reduction is the poor cousin in Australia’s current National Drug Strategy and has been given the silent treatment by this Government. Right now we can’t say that the Government is doing everything possible to save lives affected by substance misuse.
Harm reduction is the poor cousin in Australia’s current National Drug Strategy and has been given the silent treatment by this Government. Right now we can’t say that the Government is doing everything possible to save lives affected by substance misuse. We believe that families impacted by substance misuse across Australia deserve better.
Right now we can’t say that the Government is doing everything possible to save lives affected by substance misuse. We believe that families impacted by substance misuse across Australia deserve better. Under Labor’s plan, taxpayer dollars will be invested in strategies that deliver real outcomes.
We believe that families impacted by substance misuse across Australia deserve better. Under Labor’s plan, taxpayer dollars will be invested in strategies that deliver real outcomes. When someone puts their hand up and says they want to turn their life around, Labor will ensure that they can get the help they need.
Under Labor’s plan, taxpayer dollars will be invested in strategies that deliver real outcomes. When someone puts their hand up and says they want to turn their life around, Labor will ensure that they can get the help they need. POSITIVE POLICY
When someone puts their hand up and says they want to turn their life around, Labor will ensure that they can get the help they need. POSITIVE POLICY A National Approach to Suicide Prevention
POSITIVE POLICY A National Approach to Suicide Prevention A Shorten Labor Government will target a 50 per cent reduction in suicides over the next 10 years.
A National Approach to Suicide Prevention A Shorten Labor Government will target a 50 per cent reduction in suicides over the next 10 years. Labor’s National Suicide Prevention Strategy will provide a strong national commitment to reduce the suicide toll, and coordinate a focused effort across Australia.
A Shorten Labor Government will target a 50 per cent reduction in suicides over the next 10 years. Labor’s National Suicide Prevention Strategy will provide a strong national commitment to reduce the suicide toll, and coordinate a focused effort across Australia. Suicide affects far too many Australians.
Labor’s National Suicide Prevention Strategy will provide a strong national commitment to reduce the suicide toll, and coordinate a focused effort across Australia. Suicide affects far too many Australians. In 2014, 2,864 Australians lost their lives to suicide.
Suicide affects far too many Australians. In 2014, 2,864 Australians lost their lives to suicide. Approximately seven Australians die from suicide every day, and for every person who dies from suicide, 30 attempt it.
In 2014, 2,864 Australians lost their lives to suicide. Approximately seven Australians die from suicide every day, and for every person who dies from suicide, 30 attempt it. We have to do better than this.
Approximately seven Australians die from suicide every day, and for every person who dies from suicide, 30 attempt it. We have to do better than this. Too many families, friends and colleagues are left dealing with these traumatic losses.
We have to do better than this. Too many families, friends and colleagues are left dealing with these traumatic losses. There are too many kids in this country who have taken days off school to go the funeral of a classmate who has taken their own life.
Too many families, friends and colleagues are left dealing with these traumatic losses. There are too many kids in this country who have taken days off school to go the funeral of a classmate who has taken their own life. There are too many parents who have had to sit at their kitchen table, shattered, exhausted and grieving, trying to write a eulogy for their own child.
There are too many kids in this country who have taken days off school to go the funeral of a classmate who has taken their own life. There are too many parents who have had to sit at their kitchen table, shattered, exhausted and grieving, trying to write a eulogy for their own child. Australia must do more, and under Labor, we will.
There are too many parents who have had to sit at their kitchen table, shattered, exhausted and grieving, trying to write a eulogy for their own child. Australia must do more, and under Labor, we will. A Shorten Labor Government will commission Australia’s first national data-set of suicide deaths and work with the States and Territories to establish a national suicide register, helping experts identify vulnerable groups in our community.
Australia must do more, and under Labor, we will. A Shorten Labor Government will commission Australia’s first national data-set of suicide deaths and work with the States and Territories to establish a national suicide register, helping experts identify vulnerable groups in our community. A Shorten Labor Government will provide $72 million over three years for 12 regional suicide pilot projects.
A Shorten Labor Government will commission Australia’s first national data-set of suicide deaths and work with the States and Territories to establish a national suicide register, helping experts identify vulnerable groups in our community. A Shorten Labor Government will provide $72 million over three years for 12 regional suicide pilot projects. These projects will be in places with higher-than-average rates of suicide deaths, using a whole of community response to reduce suicide deaths in the most effective way.
A Shorten Labor Government will provide $72 million over three years for 12 regional suicide pilot projects. These projects will be in places with higher-than-average rates of suicide deaths, using a whole of community response to reduce suicide deaths in the most effective way. Suicide is the fifth leading cause of death for Indigenous Australians.
These projects will be in places with higher-than-average rates of suicide deaths, using a whole of community response to reduce suicide deaths in the most effective way. Suicide is the fifth leading cause of death for Indigenous Australians. Labor will take action to reduce suicide in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities by working with communities to implement the recommendations of the University of Western Sydney's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention Evaluation Project.
Suicide is the fifth leading cause of death for Indigenous Australians. Labor will take action to reduce suicide in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities by working with communities to implement the recommendations of the University of Western Sydney's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention Evaluation Project. Labor will also ensure that at least three of the regional suicide pilot projects are in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Labor will take action to reduce suicide in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities by working with communities to implement the recommendations of the University of Western Sydney's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention Evaluation Project. Labor will also ensure that at least three of the regional suicide pilot projects are in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. A Shorten Labor Government will provide $9 million towards a National Suicide Prevention Fund.
Labor will also ensure that at least three of the regional suicide pilot projects are in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. A Shorten Labor Government will provide $9 million towards a National Suicide Prevention Fund. The Fund will support research into reducing suicide deaths, and programs which reduce the stigma around suicide and seeking help when contemplating suicide.
A Shorten Labor Government will provide $9 million towards a National Suicide Prevention Fund. The Fund will support research into reducing suicide deaths, and programs which reduce the stigma around suicide and seeking help when contemplating suicide. In contrast to the Turnbull Government, Labor’s Strategy will provide national leadership, and builds on our commitment to:
The Fund will support research into reducing suicide deaths, and programs which reduce the stigma around suicide and seeking help when contemplating suicide. In contrast to the Turnbull Government, Labor’s Strategy will provide national leadership, and builds on our commitment to: Restore funding cut by the Liberals to six early psychosis centres, supporting young people with serious mental health problems.
In contrast to the Turnbull Government, Labor’s Strategy will provide national leadership, and builds on our commitment to: Restore funding cut by the Liberals to six early psychosis centres, supporting young people with serious mental health problems. Provide funding so more than 95 headspace centres around the country can stay open.
Restore funding cut by the Liberals to six early psychosis centres, supporting young people with serious mental health problems. Provide funding so more than 95 headspace centres around the country can stay open. Lead the negotiation to develop the Fifth National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan.
Provide funding so more than 95 headspace centres around the country can stay open. Lead the negotiation to develop the Fifth National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan. Deliver regionally tailored mental health programs through existing Primary Health Networks.
Lead the negotiation to develop the Fifth National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan. Deliver regionally tailored mental health programs through existing Primary Health Networks. Make sure people living with a mental illness continue to receive the support and care they need when they are not eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
Deliver regionally tailored mental health programs through existing Primary Health Networks. Make sure people living with a mental illness continue to receive the support and care they need when they are not eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme. Promote the Mentally Healthy Workplace Alliance to support better mental health at work and remove the stigma and discrimination that all too often accompanies mental ill health.
Make sure people living with a mental illness continue to receive the support and care they need when they are not eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme. Promote the Mentally Healthy Workplace Alliance to support better mental health at work and remove the stigma and discrimination that all too often accompanies mental ill health. Labor’s reforms will deliver $83.7 million over four years to provide national leadership on an issue that impacts on far too many in our community.
Promote the Mentally Healthy Workplace Alliance to support better mental health at work and remove the stigma and discrimination that all too often accompanies mental ill health. Labor’s reforms will deliver $83.7 million over four years to provide national leadership on an issue that impacts on far too many in our community. POSITIVE POLICY
Labor’s reforms will deliver $83.7 million over four years to provide national leadership on an issue that impacts on far too many in our community. POSITIVE POLICY A National Dementia Strategy
POSITIVE POLICY A National Dementia Strategy A Shorten Labor Government will partner with Alzheimer’s Australia to improve the lives of those living with dementia and their families, through the development of a National Dementia Strategy and the creation of dementia-friendly communities across the country.
A National Dementia Strategy A Shorten Labor Government will partner with Alzheimer’s Australia to improve the lives of those living with dementia and their families, through the development of a National Dementia Strategy and the creation of dementia-friendly communities across the country. Dementia is not simply an aged care issue - it is a chronic health condition with social and economic implications.
A Shorten Labor Government will partner with Alzheimer’s Australia to improve the lives of those living with dementia and their families, through the development of a National Dementia Strategy and the creation of dementia-friendly communities across the country. Dementia is not simply an aged care issue - it is a chronic health condition with social and economic implications. People living with dementia are more than the sum of their symptoms.
Dementia is not simply an aged care issue - it is a chronic health condition with social and economic implications. People living with dementia are more than the sum of their symptoms. They deserve to live with dignity, support and security.
People living with dementia are more than the sum of their symptoms. They deserve to live with dignity, support and security. With more than 350,000 Australians affected by dementia, it is important to tackle this fatal disease.
They deserve to live with dignity, support and security. With more than 350,000 Australians affected by dementia, it is important to tackle this fatal disease. Dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australia and the leading cause of disability in people over the age of 65 years.
With more than 350,000 Australians affected by dementia, it is important to tackle this fatal disease. Dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australia and the leading cause of disability in people over the age of 65 years. Without a medical breakthrough, close to one million Australians will have dementia by 2050.
Dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australia and the leading cause of disability in people over the age of 65 years. Without a medical breakthrough, close to one million Australians will have dementia by 2050. Each week there are more than 1,800 new cases of dementia in Australia – that is about one person every six minutes.
Without a medical breakthrough, close to one million Australians will have dementia by 2050. Each week there are more than 1,800 new cases of dementia in Australia – that is about one person every six minutes. By 2050 that is expected to grow to 7,400 new cases.
Each week there are more than 1,800 new cases of dementia in Australia – that is about one person every six minutes. By 2050 that is expected to grow to 7,400 new cases. Dementia costs the economy around $5 billion annually.
By 2050 that is expected to grow to 7,400 new cases. Dementia costs the economy around $5 billion annually. It is on track to become the third greatest source of health and residential aged care spending within two decades, representing around one percent of GDP.
Dementia costs the economy around $5 billion annually. It is on track to become the third greatest source of health and residential aged care spending within two decades, representing around one percent of GDP. A Shorten Labor Government will commit $25 million to help make Australia a dementia-friendly nation and address the increasing incidence of dementia.
It is on track to become the third greatest source of health and residential aged care spending within two decades, representing around one percent of GDP. A Shorten Labor Government will commit $25 million to help make Australia a dementia-friendly nation and address the increasing incidence of dementia. This will include: Developing a National Dementia Strategy to ensure a coordinated national approach to the issue.
A Shorten Labor Government will commit $25 million to help make Australia a dementia-friendly nation and address the increasing incidence of dementia. This will include: Developing a National Dementia Strategy to ensure a coordinated national approach to the issue. Supporting Alzheimer’s Australia to roll out the internationally renowned Dementia Friends program across Australia.
This will include: Developing a National Dementia Strategy to ensure a coordinated national approach to the issue. Supporting Alzheimer’s Australia to roll out the internationally renowned Dementia Friends program across Australia. Establishing a dementia-friendly resource and collaboration hub.
Supporting Alzheimer’s Australia to roll out the internationally renowned Dementia Friends program across Australia. Establishing a dementia-friendly resource and collaboration hub. Supporting local communities to become dementia-friendly.
Establishing a dementia-friendly resource and collaboration hub. Supporting local communities to become dementia-friendly. Conducting two trials for respite models, to support those who provide care to people living with dementia.
Supporting local communities to become dementia-friendly. Conducting two trials for respite models, to support those who provide care to people living with dementia. A Shorten Labor Government will actively lead the way to ensure Australia is equipped and prepared to manage the increasing incidence of dementia.
Conducting two trials for respite models, to support those who provide care to people living with dementia. A Shorten Labor Government will actively lead the way to ensure Australia is equipped and prepared to manage the increasing incidence of dementia. Only Labor will put people living with dementia, their carers and those who provide formal care and services first.
A Shorten Labor Government will actively lead the way to ensure Australia is equipped and prepared to manage the increasing incidence of dementia. Only Labor will put people living with dementia, their carers and those who provide formal care and services first. POSITIVE POLICY
Only Labor will put people living with dementia, their carers and those who provide formal care and services first. POSITIVE POLICY Supporting Australians With Disability
POSITIVE POLICY Supporting Australians With Disability A Shorten Labor Government will continue to work to improve the lives of Australians with disability.
Supporting Australians With Disability A Shorten Labor Government will continue to work to improve the lives of Australians with disability. Labor believes that people with disability deserve the same opportunities as other Australians to participate in the community and have their rights protected.
A Shorten Labor Government will continue to work to improve the lives of Australians with disability. Labor believes that people with disability deserve the same opportunities as other Australians to participate in the community and have their rights protected. We believe Australians with disability deserve a fair go.
Labor believes that people with disability deserve the same opportunities as other Australians to participate in the community and have their rights protected. We believe Australians with disability deserve a fair go. In recent years Australia has made a lot of progress in extending opportunity, security and fairness to people with disability.
We believe Australians with disability deserve a fair go. In recent years Australia has made a lot of progress in extending opportunity, security and fairness to people with disability. But we still have much more to do to ensure Australians with disability are not excluded from society.
In recent years Australia has made a lot of progress in extending opportunity, security and fairness to people with disability. But we still have much more to do to ensure Australians with disability are not excluded from society. Labor’s plan for Australians with disability includes: Delivering the National Disability Insurance Scheme on time and in full.
But we still have much more to do to ensure Australians with disability are not excluded from society. Labor’s plan for Australians with disability includes: Delivering the National Disability Insurance Scheme on time and in full. Under Labor, there will be no cuts, caps or delays to the NDIS.
Labor’s plan for Australians with disability includes: Delivering the National Disability Insurance Scheme on time and in full. Under Labor, there will be no cuts, caps or delays to the NDIS. Reinvigorating the National Disability Strategy to ensure it continues to reflect the needs of people with disability.
Under Labor, there will be no cuts, caps or delays to the NDIS. Reinvigorating the National Disability Strategy to ensure it continues to reflect the needs of people with disability. Boosting employment opportunities for people with disability by supporting private organisations to develop Disability Employment Action Plans, reforming Disability Employment Services and introducing public service employment targets.
Reinvigorating the National Disability Strategy to ensure it continues to reflect the needs of people with disability. Boosting employment opportunities for people with disability by supporting private organisations to develop Disability Employment Action Plans, reforming Disability Employment Services and introducing public service employment targets. Making Australian beaches more accessible and enjoyable for people with disability.
Boosting employment opportunities for people with disability by supporting private organisations to develop Disability Employment Action Plans, reforming Disability Employment Services and introducing public service employment targets. Making Australian beaches more accessible and enjoyable for people with disability. Ensuring there is a full-time Disability Discrimination Commissioner.
Making Australian beaches more accessible and enjoyable for people with disability. Ensuring there is a full-time Disability Discrimination Commissioner. Protecting the pension for people with disability.
Ensuring there is a full-time Disability Discrimination Commissioner. Protecting the pension for people with disability. Unlike the Liberals, Labor will not try to cut pension indexation.
Protecting the pension for people with disability. Unlike the Liberals, Labor will not try to cut pension indexation. Boosting support for independent advocacy organisations representing people with disability.
Unlike the Liberals, Labor will not try to cut pension indexation. Boosting support for independent advocacy organisations representing people with disability. POSITIVE POLICY
Boosting support for independent advocacy organisations representing people with disability. POSITIVE POLICY More Support For Australians With Diabetes
POSITIVE POLICY More Support For Australians With Diabetes A Shorten Labor Government will improve access to life-saving technologies for Australians with Type 1 diabetes.
More Support For Australians With Diabetes A Shorten Labor Government will improve access to life-saving technologies for Australians with Type 1 diabetes. Labor will fully fund access to continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) for: All children and young adults up to the age of 21.
A Shorten Labor Government will improve access to life-saving technologies for Australians with Type 1 diabetes. Labor will fully fund access to continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) for: All children and young adults up to the age of 21. People aged 21 and over who have severe hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose) and who, for health or other reasons, have limited awareness of the warning signs of impending hypoglycaemia.
Labor will fully fund access to continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) for: All children and young adults up to the age of 21. People aged 21 and over who have severe hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose) and who, for health or other reasons, have limited awareness of the warning signs of impending hypoglycaemia. Pregnant women.
People aged 21 and over who have severe hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose) and who, for health or other reasons, have limited awareness of the warning signs of impending hypoglycaemia. Pregnant women. This $79.7 million investment over four years will fully subsidise CGM technology for these groups, making it available to those who need it most.
Pregnant women. This $79.7 million investment over four years will fully subsidise CGM technology for these groups, making it available to those who need it most. Based on analysis by Diabetes Australia, more than 6,000 Australians with Type 1 diabetes are expected to benefit from Labor’s investment.
This $79.7 million investment over four years will fully subsidise CGM technology for these groups, making it available to those who need it most. Based on analysis by Diabetes Australia, more than 6,000 Australians with Type 1 diabetes are expected to benefit from Labor’s investment. At its most extreme, hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose) can be deadly.
Based on analysis by Diabetes Australia, more than 6,000 Australians with Type 1 diabetes are expected to benefit from Labor’s investment. At its most extreme, hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose) can be deadly. While deaths are rare, the long term complications of Type 1 diabetes can also be devastating, with effects including kidney failure, nerve damage, heart disease, stroke and blindness.
At its most extreme, hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose) can be deadly. While deaths are rare, the long term complications of Type 1 diabetes can also be devastating, with effects including kidney failure, nerve damage, heart disease, stroke and blindness. Minimising these risks has previously required a painful and inconvenient routine of finger prick tests.
While deaths are rare, the long term complications of Type 1 diabetes can also be devastating, with effects including kidney failure, nerve damage, heart disease, stroke and blindness. Minimising these risks has previously required a painful and inconvenient routine of finger prick tests. Continuous glucose monitoring devices continually monitor blood glucose levels through sensors placed under the skin, which are linked to hand-held devices such as mobile phones or insulin pumps.
Minimising these risks has previously required a painful and inconvenient routine of finger prick tests. Continuous glucose monitoring devices continually monitor blood glucose levels through sensors placed under the skin, which are linked to hand-held devices such as mobile phones or insulin pumps. CGM technology reduces the risks of Type 1 diabetes and improves quality of life.
Continuous glucose monitoring devices continually monitor blood glucose levels through sensors placed under the skin, which are linked to hand-held devices such as mobile phones or insulin pumps. CGM technology reduces the risks of Type 1 diabetes and improves quality of life. However, the technology is expensive, and it is not currently subsided by the Australian Government.
CGM technology reduces the risks of Type 1 diabetes and improves quality of life. However, the technology is expensive, and it is not currently subsided by the Australian Government. Labor will remove this cost barrier for thousands of Australians.
However, the technology is expensive, and it is not currently subsided by the Australian Government. Labor will remove this cost barrier for thousands of Australians. Labor’s investment in CGMs also makes economic sense.
Labor will remove this cost barrier for thousands of Australians. Labor’s investment in CGMs also makes economic sense. The devices help to reduce the short and long-term costs of treating diabetes.
Labor’s investment in CGMs also makes economic sense. The devices help to reduce the short and long-term costs of treating diabetes. Research shows that a single severe hypoglycaemic event can cost more than $18,000, including healthcare and productivity costs.
The devices help to reduce the short and long-term costs of treating diabetes. Research shows that a single severe hypoglycaemic event can cost more than $18,000, including healthcare and productivity costs. A Shorten Labor Government will also invest $4 million to expand access to the Insulin Pump Program, ensuring it can meet future demand.
Research shows that a single severe hypoglycaemic event can cost more than $18,000, including healthcare and productivity costs. A Shorten Labor Government will also invest $4 million to expand access to the Insulin Pump Program, ensuring it can meet future demand. The former Labor Government established the Insulin Pump Program in 2008 and expanded it in 2013.
A Shorten Labor Government will also invest $4 million to expand access to the Insulin Pump Program, ensuring it can meet future demand. The former Labor Government established the Insulin Pump Program in 2008 and expanded it in 2013. The Program provides subsidised access to insulin pumps, which deliver a continuous amount of insulin throughout the day.
The former Labor Government established the Insulin Pump Program in 2008 and expanded it in 2013. The Program provides subsidised access to insulin pumps, which deliver a continuous amount of insulin throughout the day. Insulin pump therapy can be life-changing and potentially life-saving for people with Type 1 diabetes.
The Program provides subsidised access to insulin pumps, which deliver a continuous amount of insulin throughout the day. Insulin pump therapy can be life-changing and potentially life-saving for people with Type 1 diabetes. It reduces the frequency of severe hypoglycaemia, enables better blood glucose management to reduce the risk of complications, and reduces the costs associated with ambulance use, emergency department presentations and hospital admissions.
Insulin pump therapy can be life-changing and potentially life-saving for people with Type 1 diabetes. It reduces the frequency of severe hypoglycaemia, enables better blood glucose management to reduce the risk of complications, and reduces the costs associated with ambulance use, emergency department presentations and hospital admissions. Due to cost and poor access, only 12 per cent of Australians with Type 1 diabetes have accessed insulin pump therapy.
It reduces the frequency of severe hypoglycaemia, enables better blood glucose management to reduce the risk of complications, and reduces the costs associated with ambulance use, emergency department presentations and hospital admissions. Due to cost and poor access, only 12 per cent of Australians with Type 1 diabetes have accessed insulin pump therapy. Demand for the pumps continues to outstrip the number of subsidies that are available, and hundreds of Australians are on waiting lists for the Program.
Due to cost and poor access, only 12 per cent of Australians with Type 1 diabetes have accessed insulin pump therapy. Demand for the pumps continues to outstrip the number of subsidies that are available, and hundreds of Australians are on waiting lists for the Program. Labor’s commitment of $1 million a year over four years will expand the program from the existing 68 pumps a year to 200 pumps distributed annually.
Demand for the pumps continues to outstrip the number of subsidies that are available, and hundreds of Australians are on waiting lists for the Program. Labor’s commitment of $1 million a year over four years will expand the program from the existing 68 pumps a year to 200 pumps distributed annually. This will meet current demand and help improve the quality of life of hundreds of people diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.
Labor’s commitment of $1 million a year over four years will expand the program from the existing 68 pumps a year to 200 pumps distributed annually. This will meet current demand and help improve the quality of life of hundreds of people diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Labor’s commitment to CGM technology and the Insulin Pump Program is further proof of our belief that all Australians should get the healthcare they need, not just the healthcare they can afford.
This will meet current demand and help improve the quality of life of hundreds of people diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Labor’s commitment to CGM technology and the Insulin Pump Program is further proof of our belief that all Australians should get the healthcare they need, not just the healthcare they can afford. Keeping higher education accessible for middle and working class families: no $100,000 degrees
Labor’s commitment to CGM technology and the Insulin Pump Program is further proof of our belief that all Australians should get the healthcare they need, not just the healthcare they can afford. Keeping higher education accessible for middle and working class families: no $100,000 degrees What should get you into uni is hard work and deep thinking — not just deep pockets.
Keeping higher education accessible for middle and working class families: no $100,000 degrees What should get you into uni is hard work and deep thinking — not just deep pockets. That is why Labor is 100% against $100,000 university degrees.
What should get you into uni is hard work and deep thinking — not just deep pockets. That is why Labor is 100% against $100,000 university degrees. POSITIVE POLICY
That is why Labor is 100% against $100,000 university degrees. POSITIVE POLICY Higher Education – Getting More Students To Graduate
POSITIVE POLICY Higher Education – Getting More Students To Graduate Enrolment at university isn’t an end in itself.
Higher Education – Getting More Students To Graduate Enrolment at university isn’t an end in itself. The previous Labor Government opened access to university – 190,000 more students are at university today as a result of our reforms.
Enrolment at university isn’t an end in itself. The previous Labor Government opened access to university – 190,000 more students are at university today as a result of our reforms. Access will always matter to Labor – and we will continue to support the demand driven system.
The previous Labor Government opened access to university – 190,000 more students are at university today as a result of our reforms. Access will always matter to Labor – and we will continue to support the demand driven system. But our next wave of university reform will focus on completion and quality.
Access will always matter to Labor – and we will continue to support the demand driven system. But our next wave of university reform will focus on completion and quality. We want Australian students who start university to finish university with a degree.
But our next wave of university reform will focus on completion and quality. We want Australian students who start university to finish university with a degree. Department of Education figures show that 23 per cent of people who started a degree as full-time students in 2006 had not completed it after eight years.
We want Australian students who start university to finish university with a degree. Department of Education figures show that 23 per cent of people who started a degree as full-time students in 2006 had not completed it after eight years. There is evidence that attrition rates have been getting worse in recent years, meaning even more students are likely to leave university with a debt but no degree.
Department of Education figures show that 23 per cent of people who started a degree as full-time students in 2006 had not completed it after eight years. There is evidence that attrition rates have been getting worse in recent years, meaning even more students are likely to leave university with a debt but no degree. With the Commonwealth investing $14 billion of taxpayers’ money in universities every year, Australians are right to expect outcomes that benefit the entire community; young Australians graduating as teachers, nurses, doctors, engineers and scientists enhancing our society and our economy.
There is evidence that attrition rates have been getting worse in recent years, meaning even more students are likely to leave university with a debt but no degree. With the Commonwealth investing $14 billion of taxpayers’ money in universities every year, Australians are right to expect outcomes that benefit the entire community; young Australians graduating as teachers, nurses, doctors, engineers and scientists enhancing our society and our economy. A Shorten Labor Government will set an ambitious goal to increase the number of students completing their study by 20,000 graduates per year from 2020.
With the Commonwealth investing $14 billion of taxpayers’ money in universities every year, Australians are right to expect outcomes that benefit the entire community; young Australians graduating as teachers, nurses, doctors, engineers and scientists enhancing our society and our economy. A Shorten Labor Government will set an ambitious goal to increase the number of students completing their study by 20,000 graduates per year from 2020. Labor will work with the university sector to ensure that incentives within the demand driven system are introduced to achieve this goal.
A Shorten Labor Government will set an ambitious goal to increase the number of students completing their study by 20,000 graduates per year from 2020. Labor will work with the university sector to ensure that incentives within the demand driven system are introduced to achieve this goal. And because students need to graduate with skills, knowledge and resilience for their working life, not just mark their name off at class, a Shorten Labor Government will invest an additional $31 million in Tertiary Education Quality Standards Australia.
Labor will work with the university sector to ensure that incentives within the demand driven system are introduced to achieve this goal. And because students need to graduate with skills, knowledge and resilience for their working life, not just mark their name off at class, a Shorten Labor Government will invest an additional $31 million in Tertiary Education Quality Standards Australia. The boost to TEQSA will lift the quality of teaching and resources to ensure that students graduate with a high quality education that will win them the jobs of the future.
And because students need to graduate with skills, knowledge and resilience for their working life, not just mark their name off at class, a Shorten Labor Government will invest an additional $31 million in Tertiary Education Quality Standards Australia. The boost to TEQSA will lift the quality of teaching and resources to ensure that students graduate with a high quality education that will win them the jobs of the future. This additional investment will provide the assurance that our investment in higher education is achieving the right outcomes, for students as well as our economy: highly skilled, highly adaptable, technology literate graduates ready to compete in the world.
The boost to TEQSA will lift the quality of teaching and resources to ensure that students graduate with a high quality education that will win them the jobs of the future. This additional investment will provide the assurance that our investment in higher education is achieving the right outcomes, for students as well as our economy: highly skilled, highly adaptable, technology literate graduates ready to compete in the world. Investing in education is the single most important thing we can do to maintain Australia’s prosperity and secure the jobs of the future.
This additional investment will provide the assurance that our investment in higher education is achieving the right outcomes, for students as well as our economy: highly skilled, highly adaptable, technology literate graduates ready to compete in the world. Investing in education is the single most important thing we can do to maintain Australia’s prosperity and secure the jobs of the future. Labor has always been committed to opening access to higher education to more Australians and supporting universities as critical drivers of innovation across the economy.
Investing in education is the single most important thing we can do to maintain Australia’s prosperity and secure the jobs of the future. Labor has always been committed to opening access to higher education to more Australians and supporting universities as critical drivers of innovation across the economy. POSITIVE POLICY
Labor has always been committed to opening access to higher education to more Australians and supporting universities as critical drivers of innovation across the economy. POSITIVE POLICY Regional Incubators and Accelerators
POSITIVE POLICY Regional Incubators and Accelerators Labor will create a Regional Innovation Fund, which will kickstart a range of initiatives to expand the role of Australia’s regions in contribution to the national innovation effort.
Regional Incubators and Accelerators Labor will create a Regional Innovation Fund, which will kickstart a range of initiatives to expand the role of Australia’s regions in contribution to the national innovation effort. It will, for example, invest in an expansion of the network of hubs and accelerators across the country, focussing on regional and rural sites.
Labor will create a Regional Innovation Fund, which will kickstart a range of initiatives to expand the role of Australia’s regions in contribution to the national innovation effort. It will, for example, invest in an expansion of the network of hubs and accelerators across the country, focussing on regional and rural sites. Labor will also support the continuation and expansion of existing university-based hubs and accelerators in metropolitan and outer-metropolitan universities.
It will, for example, invest in an expansion of the network of hubs and accelerators across the country, focussing on regional and rural sites. Labor will also support the continuation and expansion of existing university-based hubs and accelerators in metropolitan and outer-metropolitan universities. Our approach will be flexible, underpinned by consultations with stakeholders in rural and regional Australia to ensure investment reinforces local economic strengths and priorities.
Labor will also support the continuation and expansion of existing university-based hubs and accelerators in metropolitan and outer-metropolitan universities. Our approach will be flexible, underpinned by consultations with stakeholders in rural and regional Australia to ensure investment reinforces local economic strengths and priorities. And in recognition of the success and demonstrated potential of existing university-based hubs and accelerators in metropolitan areas, additional funding will also be available on a competitive basis for these universities to ramp up their programs.
Our approach will be flexible, underpinned by consultations with stakeholders in rural and regional Australia to ensure investment reinforces local economic strengths and priorities. And in recognition of the success and demonstrated potential of existing university-based hubs and accelerators in metropolitan areas, additional funding will also be available on a competitive basis for these universities to ramp up their programs. University-based accelerators will be at the centre of this initiative; however we will remain open to other avenues to boost regional innovation activity.
And in recognition of the success and demonstrated potential of existing university-based hubs and accelerators in metropolitan areas, additional funding will also be available on a competitive basis for these universities to ramp up their programs. University-based accelerators will be at the centre of this initiative; however we will remain open to other avenues to boost regional innovation activity. For example, funded entrepreneurship hubs could be based at a regional university campus or, in some cases, a local TAFE or private consortium that has attracted demonstrated regional support across business and state/local government bodies.
University-based accelerators will be at the centre of this initiative; however we will remain open to other avenues to boost regional innovation activity. For example, funded entrepreneurship hubs could be based at a regional university campus or, in some cases, a local TAFE or private consortium that has attracted demonstrated regional support across business and state/local government bodies. A Shorten Labor Government would fund the establishment of up to 20 new accelerators over three years, based on applications from consortia that must include, at a minimum: a regional university or TAFE; local government(s); and
For example, funded entrepreneurship hubs could be based at a regional university campus or, in some cases, a local TAFE or private consortium that has attracted demonstrated regional support across business and state/local government bodies. A Shorten Labor Government would fund the establishment of up to 20 new accelerators over three years, based on applications from consortia that must include, at a minimum: a regional university or TAFE; local government(s); and a local business organisation (such as a Chamber of Commerce) or a group of local businesses.
A Shorten Labor Government would fund the establishment of up to 20 new accelerators over three years, based on applications from consortia that must include, at a minimum: a regional university or TAFE; local government(s); and a local business organisation (such as a Chamber of Commerce) or a group of local businesses. Each consortium would receive seed funding of up to $500,000 per year for three years, which must be matched at least dollar-for-dollar with funding from the consortium or other sources.
a local business organisation (such as a Chamber of Commerce) or a group of local businesses. Each consortium would receive seed funding of up to $500,000 per year for three years, which must be matched at least dollar-for-dollar with funding from the consortium or other sources. POSITIVE POLICY
Each consortium would receive seed funding of up to $500,000 per year for three years, which must be matched at least dollar-for-dollar with funding from the consortium or other sources. POSITIVE POLICY National Digital Workforce Plan
POSITIVE POLICY National Digital Workforce Plan The internet and new technologies are massively disrupting the world of work.
National Digital Workforce Plan The internet and new technologies are massively disrupting the world of work. In June 2015, the Committee for Economic Development of Australia published a report which predicted that as many as five million of the jobs we do today - two out of every five jobs - will be replaced by machines by 2030.
The internet and new technologies are massively disrupting the world of work. In June 2015, the Committee for Economic Development of Australia published a report which predicted that as many as five million of the jobs we do today - two out of every five jobs - will be replaced by machines by 2030. This is particularly acute for the next generation of workers with 70 per cent of young people currently entering the workforce in jobs that will be radically affected by automation.
In June 2015, the Committee for Economic Development of Australia published a report which predicted that as many as five million of the jobs we do today - two out of every five jobs - will be replaced by machines by 2030. This is particularly acute for the next generation of workers with 70 per cent of young people currently entering the workforce in jobs that will be radically affected by automation. By 2050, 13 of Australia's 19 industry sectors will be either transformed or gain significant benefit from information and communications technology, according to IBISWorld.
This is particularly acute for the next generation of workers with 70 per cent of young people currently entering the workforce in jobs that will be radically affected by automation. By 2050, 13 of Australia's 19 industry sectors will be either transformed or gain significant benefit from information and communications technology, according to IBISWorld. Major economic and employment opportunities are presented by embracing policies that support and encourage tech-fuelled innovation.
By 2050, 13 of Australia's 19 industry sectors will be either transformed or gain significant benefit from information and communications technology, according to IBISWorld. Major economic and employment opportunities are presented by embracing policies that support and encourage tech-fuelled innovation. For example, in the US, experts have found that the technology sector is able to create jobs 25 times faster than the rate experienced by other US industry sectors.
Major economic and employment opportunities are presented by embracing policies that support and encourage tech-fuelled innovation. For example, in the US, experts have found that the technology sector is able to create jobs 25 times faster than the rate experienced by other US industry sectors. Labor will develop a far reaching blueprint required to tackle the serious skills deficits holding back the sector and preventing us from extracting the great economic advantage that comes from embracing innovation.
For example, in the US, experts have found that the technology sector is able to create jobs 25 times faster than the rate experienced by other US industry sectors. Labor will develop a far reaching blueprint required to tackle the serious skills deficits holding back the sector and preventing us from extracting the great economic advantage that comes from embracing innovation. Reflecting the huge local and international demand for skills and talent, we need a National Digital Workforce plan that can meet the needs of our startup community.
Labor will develop a far reaching blueprint required to tackle the serious skills deficits holding back the sector and preventing us from extracting the great economic advantage that comes from embracing innovation. Reflecting the huge local and international demand for skills and talent, we need a National Digital Workforce plan that can meet the needs of our startup community. Importantly, our National Digital Workforce Plan will not only focus on deepening the pool of talent available to support our startups – this is also aimed at boosting the digital skills base across the breadth of our economy.
Reflecting the huge local and international demand for skills and talent, we need a National Digital Workforce plan that can meet the needs of our startup community. Importantly, our National Digital Workforce Plan will not only focus on deepening the pool of talent available to support our startups – this is also aimed at boosting the digital skills base across the breadth of our economy. The key priorities of this plan will include: Strengthening the flow of entrants into the workforce who are keen to develop their ICT skills and seek opportunities within our digital economy
Importantly, our National Digital Workforce Plan will not only focus on deepening the pool of talent available to support our startups – this is also aimed at boosting the digital skills base across the breadth of our economy. The key priorities of this plan will include: Strengthening the flow of entrants into the workforce who are keen to develop their ICT skills and seek opportunities within our digital economy Improving the quality of ICT teaching in schools, vocational and tertiary education arenas;
The key priorities of this plan will include: Strengthening the flow of entrants into the workforce who are keen to develop their ICT skills and seek opportunities within our digital economy Improving the quality of ICT teaching in schools, vocational and tertiary education arenas; Strengthening the quality and suitability of tertiary graduates for entry-level positions;
Improving the quality of ICT teaching in schools, vocational and tertiary education arenas; Strengthening the quality and suitability of tertiary graduates for entry-level positions; Addressing the low levels of representation by female and mature-aged workers within our broader ICT workforce population;
Strengthening the quality and suitability of tertiary graduates for entry-level positions; Addressing the low levels of representation by female and mature-aged workers within our broader ICT workforce population; Lifting the functional knowledge of ICT within traditional industries and existing companies, to ensure we have a workforce that is capable of quickly adapting to technological change; and
Addressing the low levels of representation by female and mature-aged workers within our broader ICT workforce population; Lifting the functional knowledge of ICT within traditional industries and existing companies, to ensure we have a workforce that is capable of quickly adapting to technological change; and Boosting the digital skills within small to medium sized enterprises.
Lifting the functional knowledge of ICT within traditional industries and existing companies, to ensure we have a workforce that is capable of quickly adapting to technological change; and Boosting the digital skills within small to medium sized enterprises. POSITIVE POLICY
Boosting the digital skills within small to medium sized enterprises. POSITIVE POLICY Startup Year To Create More Startups
POSITIVE POLICY Startup Year To Create More Startups Australian startups are crucial to building the jobs of the future.
Startup Year To Create More Startups Australian startups are crucial to building the jobs of the future. The Australian tech startup sector has the potential to contribute 540,000 new jobs in the next two decades.
Australian startups are crucial to building the jobs of the future. The Australian tech startup sector has the potential to contribute 540,000 new jobs in the next two decades. Labor will boost Australia’s young aspiring entrepreneurial talent by providing income contingent loans to students to support their participation in university accelerators or similar incubators run by successful entrepreneurs.
The Australian tech startup sector has the potential to contribute 540,000 new jobs in the next two decades. Labor will boost Australia’s young aspiring entrepreneurial talent by providing income contingent loans to students to support their participation in university accelerators or similar incubators run by successful entrepreneurs. Startup loans will be offered to 2,000 students and new graduates each year that want to establish a startup within a university-based (or similar) accelerator.
Labor will boost Australia’s young aspiring entrepreneurial talent by providing income contingent loans to students to support their participation in university accelerators or similar incubators run by successful entrepreneurs. Startup loans will be offered to 2,000 students and new graduates each year that want to establish a startup within a university-based (or similar) accelerator. The loan will cover the cost of the support provided to them by an accredited accelerator program and accredited non-award programs and initiatives, up to the maximum annual student contribution level under the HECS system.
Startup loans will be offered to 2,000 students and new graduates each year that want to establish a startup within a university-based (or similar) accelerator. The loan will cover the cost of the support provided to them by an accredited accelerator program and accredited non-award programs and initiatives, up to the maximum annual student contribution level under the HECS system. Delivering new startup loans through the existing HECS system will offer final year students and new graduates the option of taking an additional business-focused year so they can develop their innovative startup ideas.
The loan will cover the cost of the support provided to them by an accredited accelerator program and accredited non-award programs and initiatives, up to the maximum annual student contribution level under the HECS system. Delivering new startup loans through the existing HECS system will offer final year students and new graduates the option of taking an additional business-focused year so they can develop their innovative startup ideas. It aims to encourage systemic change at universities through supporting the development of university accelerators and incubators.
Delivering new startup loans through the existing HECS system will offer final year students and new graduates the option of taking an additional business-focused year so they can develop their innovative startup ideas. It aims to encourage systemic change at universities through supporting the development of university accelerators and incubators. Over time this may assist in supporting more partnerships with well established and leading facilities such as Tank Stream Labs, Blue Chilli, Fishburners, ATPi and equivalents around the country.
It aims to encourage systemic change at universities through supporting the development of university accelerators and incubators. Over time this may assist in supporting more partnerships with well established and leading facilities such as Tank Stream Labs, Blue Chilli, Fishburners, ATPi and equivalents around the country. Over time, this program will drive a competitive market as education institutions seek and develop the best talent and draw in private sector mentors and investors.
Over time this may assist in supporting more partnerships with well established and leading facilities such as Tank Stream Labs, Blue Chilli, Fishburners, ATPi and equivalents around the country. Over time, this program will drive a competitive market as education institutions seek and develop the best talent and draw in private sector mentors and investors. This will improve collaboration between universities and the investment and technology sectors and strengthen Australia’s entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Over time, this program will drive a competitive market as education institutions seek and develop the best talent and draw in private sector mentors and investors. This will improve collaboration between universities and the investment and technology sectors and strengthen Australia’s entrepreneurial ecosystems. POSITIVE POLICY
This will improve collaboration between universities and the investment and technology sectors and strengthen Australia’s entrepreneurial ecosystems. POSITIVE POLICY Debt-free STEM Degrees
POSITIVE POLICY Debt-free STEM Degrees International research suggests 75 per cent of the fastest-growing occupations now require STEM skills and knowledge.
Debt-free STEM Degrees International research suggests 75 per cent of the fastest-growing occupations now require STEM skills and knowledge. Employment in STEM occupations is projected to grow at almost twice the pace of other occupations.
International research suggests 75 per cent of the fastest-growing occupations now require STEM skills and knowledge. Employment in STEM occupations is projected to grow at almost twice the pace of other occupations. In his 2014 report Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths: Australia’s Future, Chief Scientist Ian Chubb called on the Federal Government to “Support the national interest by maintaining the pipeline of STEM graduates, and increase the recognition of STEM education and careers as a public good."
Employment in STEM occupations is projected to grow at almost twice the pace of other occupations. In his 2014 report Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths: Australia’s Future, Chief Scientist Ian Chubb called on the Federal Government to “Support the national interest by maintaining the pipeline of STEM graduates, and increase the recognition of STEM education and careers as a public good." The Chief Scientist recognised that economic growth cannot be sustained without inquiring and capable people, a steady pipeline of specialist STEM skills in the workforce, and general science and mathematical literacy in the community.
In his 2014 report Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths: Australia’s Future, Chief Scientist Ian Chubb called on the Federal Government to “Support the national interest by maintaining the pipeline of STEM graduates, and increase the recognition of STEM education and careers as a public good." The Chief Scientist recognised that economic growth cannot be sustained without inquiring and capable people, a steady pipeline of specialist STEM skills in the workforce, and general science and mathematical literacy in the community. Labor agrees.
The Chief Scientist recognised that economic growth cannot be sustained without inquiring and capable people, a steady pipeline of specialist STEM skills in the workforce, and general science and mathematical literacy in the community. Labor agrees. That is why we will make a university STEM degree more attractive than ever before, representing a major step towards delivering the high-skilled graduate workforce our country needs.
Labor agrees. That is why we will make a university STEM degree more attractive than ever before, representing a major step towards delivering the high-skilled graduate workforce our country needs. We will provide a financial incentive for students to enrol in, and complete, a STEM undergraduate degree, in recognition of the significant public benefit of growing Australia’s STEM capacity.
That is why we will make a university STEM degree more attractive than ever before, representing a major step towards delivering the high-skilled graduate workforce our country needs. We will provide a financial incentive for students to enrol in, and complete, a STEM undergraduate degree, in recognition of the significant public benefit of growing Australia’s STEM capacity. Labor will offer 20,000 STEM Award Degrees a year for five years.
We will provide a financial incentive for students to enrol in, and complete, a STEM undergraduate degree, in recognition of the significant public benefit of growing Australia’s STEM capacity. Labor will offer 20,000 STEM Award Degrees a year for five years. Upon graduation, the entire HECS-HELP debt will be written off, meaning these students can graduate debt free.
Labor will offer 20,000 STEM Award Degrees a year for five years. Upon graduation, the entire HECS-HELP debt will be written off, meaning these students can graduate debt free. At present, an average science graduate will take eight years to pay off the $44,000 HECS debt they leave university with.
Upon graduation, the entire HECS-HELP debt will be written off, meaning these students can graduate debt free. At present, an average science graduate will take eight years to pay off the $44,000 HECS debt they leave university with. A Labor Government will give the next generation of Australians an incentive to undertake STEM degrees and offer them a head start in their working life, free of student debt.
At present, an average science graduate will take eight years to pay off the $44,000 HECS debt they leave university with. A Labor Government will give the next generation of Australians an incentive to undertake STEM degrees and offer them a head start in their working life, free of student debt. This policy will take effect in the 2017 school year.
A Labor Government will give the next generation of Australians an incentive to undertake STEM degrees and offer them a head start in their working life, free of student debt. This policy will take effect in the 2017 school year. Previous incentives to study STEM subjects have been small, piecemeal and largely unsuccessful.
This policy will take effect in the 2017 school year. Previous incentives to study STEM subjects have been small, piecemeal and largely unsuccessful. The STEM degree scholarships will provide incentives with a different scale and scope.
Previous incentives to study STEM subjects have been small, piecemeal and largely unsuccessful. The STEM degree scholarships will provide incentives with a different scale and scope. This policy reflects Labor’s focus for higher education: structuring assistance to encourage and incentivise completions at university.
The STEM degree scholarships will provide incentives with a different scale and scope. This policy reflects Labor’s focus for higher education: structuring assistance to encourage and incentivise completions at university. Students will continue to accrue their HECS-HELP debt as normal, so a failure to graduate will see them retain that liability.
This policy reflects Labor’s focus for higher education: structuring assistance to encourage and incentivise completions at university. Students will continue to accrue their HECS-HELP debt as normal, so a failure to graduate will see them retain that liability. The policy will also reflect Labor’s equity objectives, with the selection criteria to target increasing enrolments in underrepresented groups like women.
Students will continue to accrue their HECS-HELP debt as normal, so a failure to graduate will see them retain that liability. The policy will also reflect Labor’s equity objectives, with the selection criteria to target increasing enrolments in underrepresented groups like women. With women representing only 20 per cent of engineering and related technologies enrolments, and 14 per cent of information technology enrolments, boosting the representation of women in STEM degrees is a serious priority.
The policy will also reflect Labor’s equity objectives, with the selection criteria to target increasing enrolments in underrepresented groups like women. With women representing only 20 per cent of engineering and related technologies enrolments, and 14 per cent of information technology enrolments, boosting the representation of women in STEM degrees is a serious priority. Labor will consult with the Chief Scientist, and work with universities and State Governments to develop selection criteria  around access to the scheme, the eligible courses and use of the grants.
With women representing only 20 per cent of engineering and related technologies enrolments, and 14 per cent of information technology enrolments, boosting the representation of women in STEM degrees is a serious priority. Labor will consult with the Chief Scientist, and work with universities and State Governments to develop selection criteria  around access to the scheme, the eligible courses and use of the grants. This policy will seek to encourage universities to work with schools and TAFEs to target students in their last two years of their schooling or TAFE, with an emphasis in boosting the number of STEM students from underrepresented groups such as women, Indigenous, regional and lower SES backgrounds.
Labor will consult with the Chief Scientist, and work with universities and State Governments to develop selection criteria  around access to the scheme, the eligible courses and use of the grants. This policy will seek to encourage universities to work with schools and TAFEs to target students in their last two years of their schooling or TAFE, with an emphasis in boosting the number of STEM students from underrepresented groups such as women, Indigenous, regional and lower SES backgrounds. The independent Parliamentary Budget Office has costed our plan to boost the number of students doing STEM degrees at $45 million over the next four years.
This policy will seek to encourage universities to work with schools and TAFEs to target students in their last two years of their schooling or TAFE, with an emphasis in boosting the number of STEM students from underrepresented groups such as women, Indigenous, regional and lower SES backgrounds. The independent Parliamentary Budget Office has costed our plan to boost the number of students doing STEM degrees at $45 million over the next four years. POSITIVE POLICY
The independent Parliamentary Budget Office has costed our plan to boost the number of students doing STEM degrees at $45 million over the next four years. POSITIVE POLICY Higher education – Student Funding Guarantee
POSITIVE POLICY Higher education – Student Funding Guarantee Investing in education is the single most important thing we can do to maintain Australia’s prosperity and secure the jobs of the future.
Higher education – Student Funding Guarantee Investing in education is the single most important thing we can do to maintain Australia’s prosperity and secure the jobs of the future. Labor has always been committed to opening access to higher education to more Australians and supporting universities as critical drivers of innovation across the economy.
Investing in education is the single most important thing we can do to maintain Australia’s prosperity and secure the jobs of the future. Labor has always been committed to opening access to higher education to more Australians and supporting universities as critical drivers of innovation across the economy. A Shorten Labor Government will build on this record – not just because it is the fair thing to do, but because our future prosperity depends on it.
Labor has always been committed to opening access to higher education to more Australians and supporting universities as critical drivers of innovation across the economy. A Shorten Labor Government will build on this record – not just because it is the fair thing to do, but because our future prosperity depends on it. Two in every three jobs created in the future will require a university degree, and so we need to be building the workforce of the future today.
A Shorten Labor Government will build on this record – not just because it is the fair thing to do, but because our future prosperity depends on it. Two in every three jobs created in the future will require a university degree, and so we need to be building the workforce of the future today. The role of Government should be improving access to higher education not putting walls around our universities through a massive debt burden.
Two in every three jobs created in the future will require a university degree, and so we need to be building the workforce of the future today. The role of Government should be improving access to higher education not putting walls around our universities through a massive debt burden. Labor is the party of education and expanding opportunity to higher education.
The role of Government should be improving access to higher education not putting walls around our universities through a massive debt burden. Labor is the party of education and expanding opportunity to higher education. Because of our past reforms an additional 190,000 students are enrolled at university today.
Labor is the party of education and expanding opportunity to higher education. Because of our past reforms an additional 190,000 students are enrolled at university today. Labor will continue the demand driven system and ensure that access to university remains a matter of hard work and good marks, not your bank balance.
Because of our past reforms an additional 190,000 students are enrolled at university today. Labor will continue the demand driven system and ensure that access to university remains a matter of hard work and good marks, not your bank balance. A Shorten Labor Government will introduce a new Student Funding Guarantee to provide certainty to universities and remove the need for higher fees.
Labor will continue the demand driven system and ensure that access to university remains a matter of hard work and good marks, not your bank balance. A Shorten Labor Government will introduce a new Student Funding Guarantee to provide certainty to universities and remove the need for higher fees. Under a Shorten Labor Government, average funding per undergraduate student in 2018 will be more than $11,800.
A Shorten Labor Government will introduce a new Student Funding Guarantee to provide certainty to universities and remove the need for higher fees. Under a Shorten Labor Government, average funding per undergraduate student in 2018 will be more than $11,800. This additional investment will ensure that students are encouraged rather than deterred from studying at university, improving the productive capacity of our economy.
Under a Shorten Labor Government, average funding per undergraduate student in 2018 will be more than $11,800. This additional investment will ensure that students are encouraged rather than deterred from studying at university, improving the productive capacity of our economy. To provide certainty and confidence to a sector that is vital to maintaining Australia’s prosperity, Labor will legislate the Student Funding Guarantee, and index the funding to ensure the value of the contribution isn’t eroded over time.
This additional investment will ensure that students are encouraged rather than deterred from studying at university, improving the productive capacity of our economy. To provide certainty and confidence to a sector that is vital to maintaining Australia’s prosperity, Labor will legislate the Student Funding Guarantee, and index the funding to ensure the value of the contribution isn’t eroded over time. Only Labor is committed to investing in higher education to create and sustain the jobs of the future.
To provide certainty and confidence to a sector that is vital to maintaining Australia’s prosperity, Labor will legislate the Student Funding Guarantee, and index the funding to ensure the value of the contribution isn’t eroded over time. Only Labor is committed to investing in higher education to create and sustain the jobs of the future. POSITIVE POLICY
Only Labor is committed to investing in higher education to create and sustain the jobs of the future. POSITIVE POLICY Higher education – Independent Commission
POSITIVE POLICY Higher education – Independent Commission Studying at university should open the door to a well-paying career.
Higher education – Independent Commission Studying at university should open the door to a well-paying career. For that to occur, universities must be responsive to labour market pressures and educate students for growth areas in the economy.
Studying at university should open the door to a well-paying career. For that to occur, universities must be responsive to labour market pressures and educate students for growth areas in the economy. Labor will continue to support the demand driven system which has seen an additional 190,000 students enrolled at university today.
For that to occur, universities must be responsive to labour market pressures and educate students for growth areas in the economy. Labor will continue to support the demand driven system which has seen an additional 190,000 students enrolled at university today. But universities must also be attuned to the future labour market and the needs of employers.
Labor will continue to support the demand driven system which has seen an additional 190,000 students enrolled at university today. But universities must also be attuned to the future labour market and the needs of employers. Improvements in access to big data and advanced analytics capabilities will assist in developing better labour market profiles and forecasting skills needs.
But universities must also be attuned to the future labour market and the needs of employers. Improvements in access to big data and advanced analytics capabilities will assist in developing better labour market profiles and forecasting skills needs. A Shorten Labor Government will work with our universities, industry and science agencies to get the incentives right to meet the needs of the future economy.
Improvements in access to big data and advanced analytics capabilities will assist in developing better labour market profiles and forecasting skills needs. A Shorten Labor Government will work with our universities, industry and science agencies to get the incentives right to meet the needs of the future economy. From skill shortages in key occupations to productivity-driving opportunities in new industries, universities will be encouraged within the existing funding system to be more responsive to drivers of growth.
A Shorten Labor Government will work with our universities, industry and science agencies to get the incentives right to meet the needs of the future economy. From skill shortages in key occupations to productivity-driving opportunities in new industries, universities will be encouraged within the existing funding system to be more responsive to drivers of growth. In consultation with universities, Labor will establish an independent Higher Education Productivity and Performance Commission to drive these labour market outcomes.
From skill shortages in key occupations to productivity-driving opportunities in new industries, universities will be encouraged within the existing funding system to be more responsive to drivers of growth. In consultation with universities, Labor will establish an independent Higher Education Productivity and Performance Commission to drive these labour market outcomes. Similar Commissions are common in other developed economies; in the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Hong Kong, and provide good examples of best practice for Australia to consider.
In consultation with universities, Labor will establish an independent Higher Education Productivity and Performance Commission to drive these labour market outcomes. Similar Commissions are common in other developed economies; in the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Hong Kong, and provide good examples of best practice for Australia to consider. The current arrangements between the Commonwealth and universities have not always worked as well as they could or in the way they were intended.
Similar Commissions are common in other developed economies; in the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Hong Kong, and provide good examples of best practice for Australia to consider. The current arrangements between the Commonwealth and universities have not always worked as well as they could or in the way they were intended. Representing a $14 billion a year investment, Australian taxpayers are entitled to demand that their hard-earned money is delivering the highest standards of teaching and learning, for the benefit of individual students as well as our society and our economy.
The current arrangements between the Commonwealth and universities have not always worked as well as they could or in the way they were intended. Representing a $14 billion a year investment, Australian taxpayers are entitled to demand that their hard-earned money is delivering the highest standards of teaching and learning, for the benefit of individual students as well as our society and our economy. That is why a Shorten Labor Government will work with the sector to uphold a focus on accountability and performance and to lift productivity in our universities.
Representing a $14 billion a year investment, Australian taxpayers are entitled to demand that their hard-earned money is delivering the highest standards of teaching and learning, for the benefit of individual students as well as our society and our economy. That is why a Shorten Labor Government will work with the sector to uphold a focus on accountability and performance and to lift productivity in our universities. POSITIVE POLICY
That is why a Shorten Labor Government will work with the sector to uphold a focus on accountability and performance and to lift productivity in our universities. POSITIVE POLICY Higher education – Clearer Information For Parents and Students
POSITIVE POLICY Higher education – Clearer Information For Parents and Students The success of our students starts with choosing the right course, at the right university.
Higher education – Clearer Information For Parents and Students The success of our students starts with choosing the right course, at the right university. There is an obligation on government to assist students in making informed choices upon entering university.
The success of our students starts with choosing the right course, at the right university. There is an obligation on government to assist students in making informed choices upon entering university. From the final years of high school, to applying for courses at university, we must do more to ensure that students and parents have the information they need to make good decisions.
There is an obligation on government to assist students in making informed choices upon entering university. From the final years of high school, to applying for courses at university, we must do more to ensure that students and parents have the information they need to make good decisions. With the demand driven system similar to a marketplace for students and course offerings, government should ensure that students are well-informed consumers.
From the final years of high school, to applying for courses at university, we must do more to ensure that students and parents have the information they need to make good decisions. With the demand driven system similar to a marketplace for students and course offerings, government should ensure that students are well-informed consumers. Before enrolling for a degree, students should have access to information like what the average salary is upon graduation, and career opportunities upon graduation.
With the demand driven system similar to a marketplace for students and course offerings, government should ensure that students are well-informed consumers. Before enrolling for a degree, students should have access to information like what the average salary is upon graduation, and career opportunities upon graduation. There are many opportunities to leverage digital technology and a Shorten Labor Government will engage Australia’s burgeoning start-up industry in this process.
Before enrolling for a degree, students should have access to information like what the average salary is upon graduation, and career opportunities upon graduation. There are many opportunities to leverage digital technology and a Shorten Labor Government will engage Australia’s burgeoning start-up industry in this process. More informed students and parents will mean better decisions and ultimately improved outcomes.
There are many opportunities to leverage digital technology and a Shorten Labor Government will engage Australia’s burgeoning start-up industry in this process. More informed students and parents will mean better decisions and ultimately improved outcomes. A similar approach has recently been announced in the United States by President Obama in the form of a College Scorecard.
More informed students and parents will mean better decisions and ultimately improved outcomes. A similar approach has recently been announced in the United States by President Obama in the form of a College Scorecard. Labor is committed to ensuring that students have the best information available when deciding to enrol into a specific course and will work with students, parents, universities, professional career counselling bodies and business to embrace new technology and forms of transparency.
A similar approach has recently been announced in the United States by President Obama in the form of a College Scorecard. Labor is committed to ensuring that students have the best information available when deciding to enrol into a specific course and will work with students, parents, universities, professional career counselling bodies and business to embrace new technology and forms of transparency. Investing in education is the single most important thing we can do to maintain Australia’s prosperity and secure the jobs of the future.
Labor is committed to ensuring that students have the best information available when deciding to enrol into a specific course and will work with students, parents, universities, professional career counselling bodies and business to embrace new technology and forms of transparency. Investing in education is the single most important thing we can do to maintain Australia’s prosperity and secure the jobs of the future. Labor has always been committed to opening access to higher education to more Australians and supporting universities as critical drivers of innovation across the economy.
Labor has always been committed to opening access to higher education to more Australians and supporting universities as critical drivers of innovation across the economy. POSITIVE POLICY Higher education – Clearer Information For Parents and Students
Labor has always been committed to opening access to higher education to more Australians and supporting universities as critical drivers of innovation across the economy. POSITIVE POLICY University of Tasmania Jobs and Growth Package
POSITIVE POLICY University of Tasmania Jobs and Growth Package A Shorten Labor Government will invest $150 million in the education-driven economic revival of North and North-Western Tasmania to improve education outcomes and deliver jobs.
University of Tasmania Jobs and Growth Package A Shorten Labor Government will invest $150 million in the education-driven economic revival of North and North-Western Tasmania to improve education outcomes and deliver jobs. Under the $300 million co-investment plan with the University of Tasmania, two new campuses will be constructed at Inveresk in Launceston and West Park in Burnie.
A Shorten Labor Government will invest $150 million in the education-driven economic revival of North and North-Western Tasmania to improve education outcomes and deliver jobs. Under the $300 million co-investment plan with the University of Tasmania, two new campuses will be constructed at Inveresk in Launceston and West Park in Burnie. It will create 3,110 jobs, including 265 additional academic and professional staff jobs and support 12 000 new students into higher education in North and North-West Tasmania
Under the $300 million co-investment plan with the University of Tasmania, two new campuses will be constructed at Inveresk in Launceston and West Park in Burnie. It will create 3,110 jobs, including 265 additional academic and professional staff jobs and support 12 000 new students into higher education in North and North-West Tasmania The plan is estimated to deliver $1.1 billion economic output during the construction phase alone and an additional $428 million a year in economic activity.
It will create 3,110 jobs, including 265 additional academic and professional staff jobs and support 12 000 new students into higher education in North and North-West Tasmania The plan is estimated to deliver $1.1 billion economic output during the construction phase alone and an additional $428 million a year in economic activity. Project partners UTAS will provide $75 million towards the plan which will provide high quality, work ready, affordable associate degrees programs which are aligned to what industry needs, meaning more students into jobs.
The plan is estimated to deliver $1.1 billion economic output during the construction phase alone and an additional $428 million a year in economic activity. Project partners UTAS will provide $75 million towards the plan which will provide high quality, work ready, affordable associate degrees programs which are aligned to what industry needs, meaning more students into jobs. Federal Labor today calls on the State Government to match the university and commit the final $75 million to make this project happen.
Project partners UTAS will provide $75 million towards the plan which will provide high quality, work ready, affordable associate degrees programs which are aligned to what industry needs, meaning more students into jobs. Federal Labor today calls on the State Government to match the university and commit the final $75 million to make this project happen. Over the last 12 months Labor’s Tasmania Taskforce has engaged with local communities in a frank conversation about how best to get Tasmania moving again.
Federal Labor today calls on the State Government to match the university and commit the final $75 million to make this project happen. Over the last 12 months Labor’s Tasmania Taskforce has engaged with local communities in a frank conversation about how best to get Tasmania moving again. Tasmanians - in each and every conversation and submission – have raised education as the key factor to power additional jobs and prosperity.
Over the last 12 months Labor’s Tasmania Taskforce has engaged with local communities in a frank conversation about how best to get Tasmania moving again. Tasmanians - in each and every conversation and submission – have raised education as the key factor to power additional jobs and prosperity. The University of Tasmania presented their proposal to the Tasmania Taskforce and have made a compelling case for a project that will transform Tasmania’s future.
Tasmanians - in each and every conversation and submission – have raised education as the key factor to power additional jobs and prosperity. The University of Tasmania presented their proposal to the Tasmania Taskforce and have made a compelling case for a project that will transform Tasmania’s future. This co-investment will both increase higher education participation and attainment in Tasmania, as well as underpin growth and prosperity in North and North-West Tasmania.
The University of Tasmania presented their proposal to the Tasmania Taskforce and have made a compelling case for a project that will transform Tasmania’s future. This co-investment will both increase higher education participation and attainment in Tasmania, as well as underpin growth and prosperity in North and North-West Tasmania. Tasmania continues to fall behind the rest of Australia in educational outcomes and rates of youth unemployment remain too high.
This co-investment will both increase higher education participation and attainment in Tasmania, as well as underpin growth and prosperity in North and North-West Tasmania. Tasmania continues to fall behind the rest of Australia in educational outcomes and rates of youth unemployment remain too high. Tasmania has the country’s lowest proportion of higher education attainment, with just 14.2 percent of people having successfully completed university compared with 19.9 percent in NSW and 20.8 percent in Victoria.
Tasmania continues to fall behind the rest of Australia in educational outcomes and rates of youth unemployment remain too high. Tasmania has the country’s lowest proportion of higher education attainment, with just 14.2 percent of people having successfully completed university compared with 19.9 percent in NSW and 20.8 percent in Victoria. This low level of educational attainments continue to put a hold on economy growth and productivity in Tasmania.
Tasmania has the country’s lowest proportion of higher education attainment, with just 14.2 percent of people having successfully completed university compared with 19.9 percent in NSW and 20.8 percent in Victoria. This low level of educational attainments continue to put a hold on economy growth and productivity in Tasmania. Analysis shows that Tasmania is an ideal pilot location for this type of facility, and the potential expansion of Associate Degrees as a way of addressing educational disadvantage more broadly across the country.
This low level of educational attainments continue to put a hold on economy growth and productivity in Tasmania. Analysis shows that Tasmania is an ideal pilot location for this type of facility, and the potential expansion of Associate Degrees as a way of addressing educational disadvantage more broadly across the country. We are letting young Tasmanians down by not equipping them with the skills they need and disadvantaging businesses who want to employ Tasmanians and grow.
Analysis shows that Tasmania is an ideal pilot location for this type of facility, and the potential expansion of Associate Degrees as a way of addressing educational disadvantage more broadly across the country. We are letting young Tasmanians down by not equipping them with the skills they need and disadvantaging businesses who want to employ Tasmanians and grow. Labor’s investment will help young Tasmanians to get the education they need to get a job and support a stronger economic future for the state.
We are letting young Tasmanians down by not equipping them with the skills they need and disadvantaging businesses who want to employ Tasmanians and grow. Labor’s investment will help young Tasmanians to get the education they need to get a job and support a stronger economic future for the state. This approach will help build a more skilled and better qualified workforce, in an economy which is in transition from its traditional commodity and manufacturing base to the knowledge and service industries of the future.
Labor’s investment will help young Tasmanians to get the education they need to get a job and support a stronger economic future for the state. This approach will help build a more skilled and better qualified workforce, in an economy which is in transition from its traditional commodity and manufacturing base to the knowledge and service industries of the future. The University of Tasmania believes that up to 35,000 eligible Tasmanians are not going to university when they could – this investment will change that.
This approach will help build a more skilled and better qualified workforce, in an economy which is in transition from its traditional commodity and manufacturing base to the knowledge and service industries of the future. The University of Tasmania believes that up to 35,000 eligible Tasmanians are not going to university when they could – this investment will change that. While the Liberals' agenda to deregulate our higher education sector would see our regional campuses in Burnie and Launceston close their doors, Labor’s investment will ensure they not also stay open, but grow.
The University of Tasmania believes that up to 35,000 eligible Tasmanians are not going to university when they could – this investment will change that. While the Liberals' agenda to deregulate our higher education sector would see our regional campuses in Burnie and Launceston close their doors, Labor’s investment will ensure they not also stay open, but grow. Only Labor has a positive plan for higher education.
While the Liberals' agenda to deregulate our higher education sector would see our regional campuses in Burnie and Launceston close their doors, Labor’s investment will ensure they not also stay open, but grow. Only Labor has a positive plan for higher education. The Liberals plans for universities revolve around $100,000 and huge cuts, which will hurt universities in places like Tasmania the hardest.
Only Labor has a positive plan for higher education. The Liberals plans for universities revolve around $100,000 and huge cuts, which will hurt universities in places like Tasmania the hardest. It would see regional campuses in Burnie and Launceston close their doors.
The Liberals plans for universities revolve around $100,000 and huge cuts, which will hurt universities in places like Tasmania the hardest. It would see regional campuses in Burnie and Launceston close their doors. POSITIVE POLICY
It would see regional campuses in Burnie and Launceston close their doors. POSITIVE POLICY Restoring Integrity in VET and Protecting Students and Taxpayers from Rip-offs
POSITIVE POLICY Restoring Integrity in VET and Protecting Students and Taxpayers from Rip-offs A Shorten Labor Government will introduce a loan cap of $8,000 a year in the VET FEE-HELP program as part of an integrity package to stop the massive waste of taxpayers’ money, to prevent price gouging of students and improve training outcomes.
Restoring Integrity in VET and Protecting Students and Taxpayers from Rip-offs A Shorten Labor Government will introduce a loan cap of $8,000 a year in the VET FEE-HELP program as part of an integrity package to stop the massive waste of taxpayers’ money, to prevent price gouging of students and improve training outcomes. Under the Liberals, the VET FEE-HELP loans scheme has escalated from $699 million in 2013 to $1.7 billion in 2014 and is expected to have blown out to over $3 billion for 2015.
A Shorten Labor Government will introduce a loan cap of $8,000 a year in the VET FEE-HELP program as part of an integrity package to stop the massive waste of taxpayers’ money, to prevent price gouging of students and improve training outcomes. Under the Liberals, the VET FEE-HELP loans scheme has escalated from $699 million in 2013 to $1.7 billion in 2014 and is expected to have blown out to over $3 billion for 2015. At the same time, students are being ripped off by unscrupulous colleges and dodgy providers - and taxpayers are being forced to pick up the tab.
Under the Liberals, the VET FEE-HELP loans scheme has escalated from $699 million in 2013 to $1.7 billion in 2014 and is expected to have blown out to over $3 billion for 2015. At the same time, students are being ripped off by unscrupulous colleges and dodgy providers - and taxpayers are being forced to pick up the tab. In some colleges it is costing taxpayers over a million dollars in VET FEE-HELP loans to produce a single graduate.
At the same time, students are being ripped off by unscrupulous colleges and dodgy providers - and taxpayers are being forced to pick up the tab. In some colleges it is costing taxpayers over a million dollars in VET FEE-HELP loans to produce a single graduate. In 2014, the ten largest private training college recipients of VET FEE-HELP subsidies in Australia were paid $900 million in government subsidies - yet less than five per cent of their students graduated.
In some colleges it is costing taxpayers over a million dollars in VET FEE-HELP loans to produce a single graduate. In 2014, the ten largest private training college recipients of VET FEE-HELP subsidies in Australia were paid $900 million in government subsidies - yet less than five per cent of their students graduated. Labor will stop this waste of taxpayers’ money and exploitation of students.
In 2014, the ten largest private training college recipients of VET FEE-HELP subsidies in Australia were paid $900 million in government subsidies - yet less than five per cent of their students graduated. Labor will stop this waste of taxpayers’ money and exploitation of students. Our plan will restore integrity to the system, by cleaning out the dodgy private providers who have been ripping Australians off for too long.
Labor will stop this waste of taxpayers’ money and exploitation of students. Our plan will restore integrity to the system, by cleaning out the dodgy private providers who have been ripping Australians off for too long. Labor’s plan to rein in these taxpayer subsidies and restore integrity to the vocational education sector will save Australian taxpayers $6 billion over ten years.
Our plan will restore integrity to the system, by cleaning out the dodgy private providers who have been ripping Australians off for too long. Labor’s plan to rein in these taxpayer subsidies and restore integrity to the vocational education sector will save Australian taxpayers $6 billion over ten years. There will be an exemption on legitimate high-cost courses such as nursing and engineering following ministerial approval.
Labor’s plan to rein in these taxpayer subsidies and restore integrity to the vocational education sector will save Australian taxpayers $6 billion over ten years. There will be an exemption on legitimate high-cost courses such as nursing and engineering following ministerial approval. Other measures in Labor’s integrity package include: Ensuring that funding for providers is linked to student progress
There will be an exemption on legitimate high-cost courses such as nursing and engineering following ministerial approval. Other measures in Labor’s integrity package include: Ensuring that funding for providers is linked to student progress Set national priorities to help meet the skills needs of industry
Other measures in Labor’s integrity package include: Ensuring that funding for providers is linked to student progress Set national priorities to help meet the skills needs of industry Crackdown on the use of brokers to recruit students
Set national priorities to help meet the skills needs of industry Crackdown on the use of brokers to recruit students Ensure that only the highest quality colleges get access to funding
Crackdown on the use of brokers to recruit students Ensure that only the highest quality colleges get access to funding Tougher powers to audit, investigate and suspend unscrupulous providers
Ensure that only the highest quality colleges get access to funding Tougher powers to audit, investigate and suspend unscrupulous providers Nation-building infrastructure: jobs, road and rail
Tougher powers to audit, investigate and suspend unscrupulous providers Nation-building infrastructure: jobs, road and rail We are committed to nation-building.
Nation-building infrastructure: jobs, road and rail We are committed to nation-building. That’s why Labor will invest in roads and rail to ensure our cities and regions have properly integrated transport systems that boost productivity.
We are committed to nation-building. That’s why Labor will invest in roads and rail to ensure our cities and regions have properly integrated transport systems that boost productivity. POSITIVE POLICY
That’s why Labor will invest in roads and rail to ensure our cities and regions have properly integrated transport systems that boost productivity. POSITIVE POLICY Empowering Infrastructure Australia
POSITIVE POLICY Empowering Infrastructure Australia Australia has an infrastructure deficit.
Empowering Infrastructure Australia Australia has an infrastructure deficit. Infrastructure Australia estimates the economic cost of underinvestment will reach $53 billion a year by 2031 and become an increasing drag on growth.
Australia has an infrastructure deficit. Infrastructure Australia estimates the economic cost of underinvestment will reach $53 billion a year by 2031 and become an increasing drag on growth. Well-targeted investment in infrastructure - whether by the private or public sector - creates jobs now and increases our jobs capacity in the future.
Infrastructure Australia estimates the economic cost of underinvestment will reach $53 billion a year by 2031 and become an increasing drag on growth. Well-targeted investment in infrastructure - whether by the private or public sector - creates jobs now and increases our jobs capacity in the future. Investment in transport, energy, communications and water infrastructure also expands the productive capacity of the economy, growing the base for future Budget revenue.
Well-targeted investment in infrastructure - whether by the private or public sector - creates jobs now and increases our jobs capacity in the future. Investment in transport, energy, communications and water infrastructure also expands the productive capacity of the economy, growing the base for future Budget revenue. The current Liberal Government has presided over a collapse in infrastructure investment. ABS figures show public sector engineering work has fallen by 20 per cent compared with the last quarter of the Labor Government in 2013.
Investment in transport, energy, communications and water infrastructure also expands the productive capacity of the economy, growing the base for future Budget revenue. The current Liberal Government has presided over a collapse in infrastructure investment. ABS figures show public sector engineering work has fallen by 20 per cent compared with the last quarter of the Labor Government in 2013. Labor will take the politics out of infrastructure and put the nation’s interest at the heart of nation building again.
The current Liberal Government has presided over a collapse in infrastructure investment. ABS figures show public sector engineering work has fallen by 20 per cent compared with the last quarter of the Labor Government in 2013. Labor will take the politics out of infrastructure and put the nation’s interest at the heart of nation building again. We will empower Infrastructure Australia to become an active participant in the infrastructure market, working with State Governments and brokering deals to bring nation building projects to fruition.
Labor will take the politics out of infrastructure and put the nation’s interest at the heart of nation building again. We will empower Infrastructure Australia to become an active participant in the infrastructure market, working with State Governments and brokering deals to bring nation building projects to fruition. Infrastructure Australia will develop a long term pipeline for projects for the Commonwealth Government and ensure that projects move through the assessment, development and financing phases.
We will empower Infrastructure Australia to become an active participant in the infrastructure market, working with State Governments and brokering deals to bring nation building projects to fruition. Infrastructure Australia will develop a long term pipeline for projects for the Commonwealth Government and ensure that projects move through the assessment, development and financing phases. Just as the Reserve Bank of Australia is the independent authority at the centre of monetary policy, Infrastructure Australia will be at the centre of capital investment, driving results that are in the national interest.
Infrastructure Australia will develop a long term pipeline for projects for the Commonwealth Government and ensure that projects move through the assessment, development and financing phases. Just as the Reserve Bank of Australia is the independent authority at the centre of monetary policy, Infrastructure Australia will be at the centre of capital investment, driving results that are in the national interest. It will operate in a similar way to the Reserve Bank of Australia and a Shorten Labor Government will properly consult the Opposition on all board appointments.
Just as the Reserve Bank of Australia is the independent authority at the centre of monetary policy, Infrastructure Australia will be at the centre of capital investment, driving results that are in the national interest. It will operate in a similar way to the Reserve Bank of Australia and a Shorten Labor Government will properly consult the Opposition on all board appointments. Under Labor, Infrastructure Australia will deliver:  Independent assessments and scrutiny
It will operate in a similar way to the Reserve Bank of Australia and a Shorten Labor Government will properly consult the Opposition on all board appointments. Under Labor, Infrastructure Australia will deliver:  Independent assessments and scrutiny We will ensure that Infrastructure Australia independently assesses all major infrastructure projects on the basis of the benefits they provide to the economy and society as whole, their commercial viability, and their capacity to enhance national productivity.
Under Labor, Infrastructure Australia will deliver:  Independent assessments and scrutiny We will ensure that Infrastructure Australia independently assesses all major infrastructure projects on the basis of the benefits they provide to the economy and society as whole, their commercial viability, and their capacity to enhance national productivity. Transparency
We will ensure that Infrastructure Australia independently assesses all major infrastructure projects on the basis of the benefits they provide to the economy and society as whole, their commercial viability, and their capacity to enhance national productivity. Transparency We will strengthen the transparency in infrastructure decision making through publishing the business case for projects and proper engagement with the community.
Transparency We will strengthen the transparency in infrastructure decision making through publishing the business case for projects and proper engagement with the community. It is critical the public has confidence in infrastructure development.
We will strengthen the transparency in infrastructure decision making through publishing the business case for projects and proper engagement with the community. It is critical the public has confidence in infrastructure development. Brokering
It is critical the public has confidence in infrastructure development. Brokering Under Labor, Infrastructure Australia will be given new authority to structure deals, engage private sector partners, and work closely with the state governments to take projects from the drawing board to construction.
Brokering Under Labor, Infrastructure Australia will be given new authority to structure deals, engage private sector partners, and work closely with the state governments to take projects from the drawing board to construction. Infrastructure Australia will work with the States, long term investors, the private sector, financiers and constructors, to address the market failure in bringing new infrastructure projects to the market.
Under Labor, Infrastructure Australia will be given new authority to structure deals, engage private sector partners, and work closely with the state governments to take projects from the drawing board to construction. Infrastructure Australia will work with the States, long term investors, the private sector, financiers and constructors, to address the market failure in bringing new infrastructure projects to the market. Our plan to empower Infrastructure Australia to make decisions in the national interest and pursue projects with major economic gains will kick-start a new phase of infrastructure investment and help unblock the bottlenecks that are holding productivity back across our cities and regions.
Infrastructure Australia will work with the States, long term investors, the private sector, financiers and constructors, to address the market failure in bringing new infrastructure projects to the market. Our plan to empower Infrastructure Australia to make decisions in the national interest and pursue projects with major economic gains will kick-start a new phase of infrastructure investment and help unblock the bottlenecks that are holding productivity back across our cities and regions. POSITIVE POLICY
Our plan to empower Infrastructure Australia to make decisions in the national interest and pursue projects with major economic gains will kick-start a new phase of infrastructure investment and help unblock the bottlenecks that are holding productivity back across our cities and regions. POSITIVE POLICY Plan For Our Cities
POSITIVE POLICY Plan For Our Cities Cities matter.
Plan For Our Cities Cities matter. They produce 80 per cent of our GDP
Cities matter. They produce 80 per cent of our GDP and are home to four out of five Australians.
They produce 80 per cent of our GDP and are home to four out of five Australians. Indeed, in the Asian Century they matter even more than they did in 1972.
and are home to four out of five Australians. Indeed, in the Asian Century they matter even more than they did in 1972. The opportunity is clear: by 2030, the Asia Pacific region will have a middle class of 3.2 billion people, almost twice as many as Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Middle East combined.
Indeed, in the Asian Century they matter even more than they did in 1972. The opportunity is clear: by 2030, the Asia Pacific region will have a middle class of 3.2 billion people, almost twice as many as Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Middle East combined. By 2025, this region will produce over half of global output.
The opportunity is clear: by 2030, the Asia Pacific region will have a middle class of 3.2 billion people, almost twice as many as Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Middle East combined. By 2025, this region will produce over half of global output. Australia is fortunate to be at the world’s economic epicentre.
By 2025, this region will produce over half of global output. Australia is fortunate to be at the world’s economic epicentre. We must compete with our innovation, our skills and ability to deliver high value outcomes.
Australia is fortunate to be at the world’s economic epicentre. We must compete with our innovation, our skills and ability to deliver high value outcomes. In the 21st century, productivity is the main weapon we have to grow national wealth, lift living standards and stay in front in the battle for international competitiveness.
We must compete with our innovation, our skills and ability to deliver high value outcomes. In the 21st century, productivity is the main weapon we have to grow national wealth, lift living standards and stay in front in the battle for international competitiveness. Creative cities policy which boosts productivity will be critical to our success.
In the 21st century, productivity is the main weapon we have to grow national wealth, lift living standards and stay in front in the battle for international competitiveness. Creative cities policy which boosts productivity will be critical to our success. Labor has a 10 point plan for cities.
Creative cities policy which boosts productivity will be critical to our success. Labor has a 10 point plan for cities. The plan represents a comprehensive vision that goes to the heart of what makes our cities productive, sustainable and liveable.
Labor has a 10 point plan for cities. The plan represents a comprehensive vision that goes to the heart of what makes our cities productive, sustainable and liveable. The plan comprises: Investing in properly integrated transport systems involving public transport and roads
The plan represents a comprehensive vision that goes to the heart of what makes our cities productive, sustainable and liveable. The plan comprises: Investing in properly integrated transport systems involving public transport and roads Investing in active transport solutions which connect up with public transport, education and employment hubs;
The plan comprises: Investing in properly integrated transport systems involving public transport and roads Investing in active transport solutions which connect up with public transport, education and employment hubs; Addressing housing affordability through the use of urban planning, land supply and use of incentives;
Investing in active transport solutions which connect up with public transport, education and employment hubs; Addressing housing affordability through the use of urban planning, land supply and use of incentives; Aligning greater housing density with public transport corridors;
Addressing housing affordability through the use of urban planning, land supply and use of incentives; Aligning greater housing density with public transport corridors; Promoting jobs growth in outer suburbs.
Aligning greater housing density with public transport corridors; Promoting jobs growth in outer suburbs. This could be through direct investment such as Badgerys Creek Airport and Moorebank Intermodal project
Promoting jobs growth in outer suburbs. This could be through direct investment such as Badgerys Creek Airport and Moorebank Intermodal project , or by giving consideration to incentives for location of business;
This could be through direct investment such as Badgerys Creek Airport and Moorebank Intermodal project , or by giving consideration to incentives for location of business; Promoting jobs growth in middle rings around cities by investing in research precincts around universities and hospitals;
, or by giving consideration to incentives for location of business; Promoting jobs growth in middle rings around cities by investing in research precincts around universities and hospitals; Supporting connectivity and productivity through fibre-to-the-premise National Broadband Network;
Promoting jobs growth in middle rings around cities by investing in research precincts around universities and hospitals; Supporting connectivity and productivity through fibre-to-the-premise National Broadband Network; Supporting renewable energy including buildings and precincts that produce their own power in new developments;
Supporting connectivity and productivity through fibre-to-the-premise National Broadband Network; Supporting renewable energy including buildings and precincts that produce their own power in new developments; Enhancing sustainability and resilience of household and industrial water supply and rehabilitating our urban waterways which for too long were used for industrial waste;
Supporting renewable energy including buildings and precincts that produce their own power in new developments; Enhancing sustainability and resilience of household and industrial water supply and rehabilitating our urban waterways which for too long were used for industrial waste; Cooperation between Governments to promote the development of second or third CBD’s to decentralise jobs growth.
Enhancing sustainability and resilience of household and industrial water supply and rehabilitating our urban waterways which for too long were used for industrial waste; Cooperation between Governments to promote the development of second or third CBD’s to decentralise jobs growth. It recognises the need to create alternate employment centres,
Cooperation between Governments to promote the development of second or third CBD’s to decentralise jobs growth. It recognises the need to create alternate employment centres, protect our urban environment,
It recognises the need to create alternate employment centres, protect our urban environment, address the issue of housing affordability
protect our urban environment, address the issue of housing affordability and ensure our cities have integrated public and active transport systems.
address the issue of housing affordability and ensure our cities have integrated public and active transport systems. POSITIVE POLICY
and ensure our cities have integrated public and active transport systems. POSITIVE POLICY Financing The Infrastructure Of The Future
POSITIVE POLICY Financing The Infrastructure Of The Future The current Liberal Government has presided over a collapse in infrastructure investment in Australia. ABS figures show public sector engineering work has fallen by 20 per cent compared with the last quarter of the Labor Government in 2013.
Financing The Infrastructure Of The Future The current Liberal Government has presided over a collapse in infrastructure investment in Australia. ABS figures show public sector engineering work has fallen by 20 per cent compared with the last quarter of the Labor Government in 2013. Infrastructure Australia estimates the economic cost of underinvestment in Australia’s roads, rail links and ports will reach $53 billion a year by 2031 and become an increasing drag on growth.
The current Liberal Government has presided over a collapse in infrastructure investment in Australia. ABS figures show public sector engineering work has fallen by 20 per cent compared with the last quarter of the Labor Government in 2013. Infrastructure Australia estimates the economic cost of underinvestment in Australia’s roads, rail links and ports will reach $53 billion a year by 2031 and become an increasing drag on growth. Labor will take the politics out of infrastructure and put the nation’s interest at the heart of nation building again.
Infrastructure Australia estimates the economic cost of underinvestment in Australia’s roads, rail links and ports will reach $53 billion a year by 2031 and become an increasing drag on growth. Labor will take the politics out of infrastructure and put the nation’s interest at the heart of nation building again. We will empower Infrastructure Australia to become an active participant in the infrastructure market, working with State Governments and brokering deals to bring nation building projects to fruition.
Labor will take the politics out of infrastructure and put the nation’s interest at the heart of nation building again. We will empower Infrastructure Australia to become an active participant in the infrastructure market, working with State Governments and brokering deals to bring nation building projects to fruition. To deliver a stable and ongoing pipeline of infrastructure into the future, Labor will also give Infrastructure Australia an independent financing capacity and balance sheet to jumpstart the development of new projects.
We will empower Infrastructure Australia to become an active participant in the infrastructure market, working with State Governments and brokering deals to bring nation building projects to fruition. To deliver a stable and ongoing pipeline of infrastructure into the future, Labor will also give Infrastructure Australia an independent financing capacity and balance sheet to jumpstart the development of new projects. Establishing an independent, funded project broker that is able to structure projects and work programs to reflect risk will provide greater certainty for investors and incentivise States to propose projects and clear approvals.
To deliver a stable and ongoing pipeline of infrastructure into the future, Labor will also give Infrastructure Australia an independent financing capacity and balance sheet to jumpstart the development of new projects. Establishing an independent, funded project broker that is able to structure projects and work programs to reflect risk will provide greater certainty for investors and incentivise States to propose projects and clear approvals. Under a Shorten Labor Government, Infrastructure Australia will be given a new Financing Mandate that will mobilise private sector finance through a range of instruments including loans, loan guarantees and equity investments.
Establishing an independent, funded project broker that is able to structure projects and work programs to reflect risk will provide greater certainty for investors and incentivise States to propose projects and clear approvals. Under a Shorten Labor Government, Infrastructure Australia will be given a new Financing Mandate that will mobilise private sector finance through a range of instruments including loans, loan guarantees and equity investments. A more active role for the Federal Government has been called for by a broad range of public finance experts as well as private sector investors and the business community.
Under a Shorten Labor Government, Infrastructure Australia will be given a new Financing Mandate that will mobilise private sector finance through a range of instruments including loans, loan guarantees and equity investments. A more active role for the Federal Government has been called for by a broad range of public finance experts as well as private sector investors and the business community. Operating in a similar way to the Clean Energy Finance Corporation, Labor’s new Infrastructure Australia will have a $10 billion financing facility, if needed, to deploy a combination of guarantees, loans or equity to get new projects started provided they meet stringent criteria.
A more active role for the Federal Government has been called for by a broad range of public finance experts as well as private sector investors and the business community. Operating in a similar way to the Clean Energy Finance Corporation, Labor’s new Infrastructure Australia will have a $10 billion financing facility, if needed, to deploy a combination of guarantees, loans or equity to get new projects started provided they meet stringent criteria. Using a conservative analysis prepared by Infrastructure Partners Australia, a $10 billion infrastructure investment will directly create approximately 26,000 jobs
Operating in a similar way to the Clean Energy Finance Corporation, Labor’s new Infrastructure Australia will have a $10 billion financing facility, if needed, to deploy a combination of guarantees, loans or equity to get new projects started provided they meet stringent criteria. Using a conservative analysis prepared by Infrastructure Partners Australia, a $10 billion infrastructure investment will directly create approximately 26,000 jobs and add around an extra $7.5 billion every year to Australia’s GDP.
Using a conservative analysis prepared by Infrastructure Partners Australia, a $10 billion infrastructure investment will directly create approximately 26,000 jobs and add around an extra $7.5 billion every year to Australia’s GDP. This is not a grants program.
and add around an extra $7.5 billion every year to Australia’s GDP. This is not a grants program. Empowering Infrastructure Australia in this way will attract more private investment – not crowd it out.
This is not a grants program. Empowering Infrastructure Australia in this way will attract more private investment – not crowd it out. It will only offer loans, loan guarantees and equity where there is market failure and where projects are expected to deliver a return on its investment.
Empowering Infrastructure Australia in this way will attract more private investment – not crowd it out. It will only offer loans, loan guarantees and equity where there is market failure and where projects are expected to deliver a return on its investment. This ensures that there is flexibility in financing arrangements to deliver the most efficient and effective arrangements on a project by project basis.
It will only offer loans, loan guarantees and equity where there is market failure and where projects are expected to deliver a return on its investment. This ensures that there is flexibility in financing arrangements to deliver the most efficient and effective arrangements on a project by project basis. Labor won’t just talk about infrastructure; we will ensure it actually gets built by boosting Infrastructure Australia with an independent financing facility to make smarter investments that can get our cities and regions moving again.
This ensures that there is flexibility in financing arrangements to deliver the most efficient and effective arrangements on a project by project basis. Labor won’t just talk about infrastructure; we will ensure it actually gets built by boosting Infrastructure Australia with an independent financing facility to make smarter investments that can get our cities and regions moving again. POSITIVE POLICY
Labor won’t just talk about infrastructure; we will ensure it actually gets built by boosting Infrastructure Australia with an independent financing facility to make smarter investments that can get our cities and regions moving again. POSITIVE POLICY Smart, Sustainable Infrastructure
POSITIVE POLICY Smart, Sustainable Infrastructure A Labor Government will toughen assessment of proposed major infrastructure projects by requiring the incorporation of smart infrastructure technology and sustainability measures before projects qualify for Commonwealth funding.
Smart, Sustainable Infrastructure A Labor Government will toughen assessment of proposed major infrastructure projects by requiring the incorporation of smart infrastructure technology and sustainability measures before projects qualify for Commonwealth funding. Under current arrangements, Infrastructure Australia independently advises the Commonwealth on major projects in terms of their cost-benefits analysis and how they fit with the existing infrastructure mix.
A Labor Government will toughen assessment of proposed major infrastructure projects by requiring the incorporation of smart infrastructure technology and sustainability measures before projects qualify for Commonwealth funding. Under current arrangements, Infrastructure Australia independently advises the Commonwealth on major projects in terms of their cost-benefits analysis and how they fit with the existing infrastructure mix. But a Labor Government will broaden Infrastructure Australia’s role.
Under current arrangements, Infrastructure Australia independently advises the Commonwealth on major projects in terms of their cost-benefits analysis and how they fit with the existing infrastructure mix. But a Labor Government will broaden Infrastructure Australia’s role. We will add new assessment criteria on smart infrastructure and sustainability to increase value for public money and take genuine action to improve liveability in our major cities.
But a Labor Government will broaden Infrastructure Australia’s role. We will add new assessment criteria on smart infrastructure and sustainability to increase value for public money and take genuine action to improve liveability in our major cities. Smart Infrastructure:
We will add new assessment criteria on smart infrastructure and sustainability to increase value for public money and take genuine action to improve liveability in our major cities. Smart Infrastructure: Smart infrastructure is technology that increases the efficiency of infrastructure.
Smart Infrastructure: Smart infrastructure is technology that increases the efficiency of infrastructure. On roads, for example, modern signalling and traffic monitoring allows for traffic flows to be adjusted according to the time of day, making more lanes accessible during peak time.
Smart infrastructure is technology that increases the efficiency of infrastructure. On roads, for example, modern signalling and traffic monitoring allows for traffic flows to be adjusted according to the time of day, making more lanes accessible during peak time. This technology increases the efficiency of new roads, but in some cases, smart technology can also make existing roads so efficient there is no need to build new ones.
On roads, for example, modern signalling and traffic monitoring allows for traffic flows to be adjusted according to the time of day, making more lanes accessible during peak time. This technology increases the efficiency of new roads, but in some cases, smart technology can also make existing roads so efficient there is no need to build new ones. Under a Labor Government, road project proponents will need to demonstrate they have incorporated smart infrastructure and at least considered the alternative option of using technology to improve existing roads.
This technology increases the efficiency of new roads, but in some cases, smart technology can also make existing roads so efficient there is no need to build new ones. Under a Labor Government, road project proponents will need to demonstrate they have incorporated smart infrastructure and at least considered the alternative option of using technology to improve existing roads. This will ensure we squeeze every drop of efficiency out of existing infrastructure and that new projects meet world’s best practice.
Under a Labor Government, road project proponents will need to demonstrate they have incorporated smart infrastructure and at least considered the alternative option of using technology to improve existing roads. This will ensure we squeeze every drop of efficiency out of existing infrastructure and that new projects meet world’s best practice. Sustainable Infrastructure:
This will ensure we squeeze every drop of efficiency out of existing infrastructure and that new projects meet world’s best practice. Sustainable Infrastructure: Labor’s new sustainability criteria will ensure that government incorporates measures that add to sustainability when they design new roads and railway lines.
Sustainable Infrastructure: Labor’s new sustainability criteria will ensure that government incorporates measures that add to sustainability when they design new roads and railway lines. For example, when building a new road in a city, we should consider opportunities to build an adjacent bike track or walking track at the same time.
Labor’s new sustainability criteria will ensure that government incorporates measures that add to sustainability when they design new roads and railway lines. For example, when building a new road in a city, we should consider opportunities to build an adjacent bike track or walking track at the same time. This will take more cars off the roads by increasing travel options.