Stage 3 Tax Cuts

As the Federal parliamentary sitting year resumes in Canberra, Labor is dragging my Coalition colleagues and I into debating again the tax cuts that we passed five years ago in Government – with Labor’s support! Fresh from a divisive, half-a-billion-dollar doomed referendum in 2023, this distracted Labor Government had a mid-January crisis brainstorm about tax…

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Column – Pacific Engagement Visa

This week in Parliament I spoke on the value of Australia’s engagement with our Pacific Island neighbours, which cannot be denied. My speech addressed Labor’s new immigration legislation.As those who live in Swan Hill, Robinvale and Mildura regions can attest, to see how migrants from the Pacific Islands contribute to our industries and communities –…

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ABCC axed by Labor for political gain

The Labor Government’s decision to neuter the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC) is deeply concerning. In the very first week of parliament, Prime Minister Albanese has demonstrated his commitment his union mates, the CFMMEU, by stripping back the powers of its watchdog to “the bare legal minimum.” The CFMMEU has been dragged to court…

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Volunteers, the champions of the community

Prior to being elected to Office, I spent time working in the not-for-profit charity sector. I worked with some wonderful and generous people and the invaluable contribution that volunteers make to our community. They are our quiet heroes. Volunteers are the ones helping putt meals on tables, assisting elderly, providing friendship to the lonely, giving…

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Concerns for the future of regional health

When you’re sick and you need a doctor, it should not be a herculean task to get an appointment. But across Mallee, it often is. Under the Coalition Government, a suite of measures was implemented to target regional disadvantage. Measures I advocated for.  These included funding 80 new Commonwealth Supported Places – a scheme that…

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Picking Crisis

It is citrus harvest time and many growers in Sunraysia are on their knees. This year’s yield has been astounding. The export market is looking positive, despite ongoing global shipping constraints. But there is one critical ingredient missing: workers. Growers are paying up to $400 per day for workers to pick 10 bins. In a…

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Proud of our flag

While Adam Bandt, believes he is combatting racism by shunning the Australian flag, I would argue he is in fact promoting it, and he ought to be ashamed of himself. Our flag is a noble symbol that unites all Australians, whether new citizens or those born here, embracing all of our heritage. I can remember…

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Visa Wait Times will Rise

One of my immediate concerns of the incoming Labor Government is their history of disconnect on regional issues and with regional people. The Labor Government’s contempt for regional businesses and people is on full display with their management of the Department of Home Affairs. As the Australian Financial Review reported this week, the government has…

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