The Official Parliamentary Induction Ceremony

The Official Parliamentary Induction Ceremony held last week was special and humbling and was made very memorable by the presence of my family.

Good news for business was the announcement of a reduction in Payroll Tax from 6.85% to 6.4%. The introduction of the Payroll Tax Amendment (Apprentices Concession and Rate Reduction) Bill at Parliament confirmed the Government's commitment to business which is a positive sign.

This Bill is to encourage employment of apprentices by way of payroll tax relief and is expected to encourage an additional 1,000 apprenticeships. The scheme will consist of a tiered percentage of payroll tax liability and full liability applicable only when the apprentices reach their fourth year: an expected saving of $4 million each year. Commencement is 1 July this year and will not only apply to new, but also to existing apprentices.

The recent announcement of the site identification for the $2.8m detoxification centre was welcomed. This recognition by the Health Minister, Mr Craig Knowles and the Northern Rivers Area Health Service is appreciated.

Over the past few days, I have been present at the Drug Summit with an open mind and keen to hear various opinions on this issue. I received a number of informative booklets, letters and publications on this widespread community crisis and I believe it is essential to broaden my knowledge regarding this matter of concern.

As I have met other Members of Parliament, both regional and metropolitan, it is apparent that the issues we have in this region are not isolated. To date, inaugural speeches and other comments highlight that these matters of concern are state wide.

So again I reiterate my earlier statements that we need to look forward and promote the positives of the seat of Lismore and try not to dwell on the negatives.

Applications are being invited from persons interested in being considered for appointment as a member of the Wyrallah Flood Refuge Reserve Trust. The term of appointment is up to five years and trusts are responsible to the Minister for Land and Water Conservation and are charged with the care, control and management of the Reserves. Further details can be obtained by contacting my office.