Owning your own home is the great Australian dream and the Morrison Government is making this a reality for first home buyers and single parents with children in Bonner.

Applications are now being accepted for 30,000 additional places under the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme, the New Home Guarantee program, and the Family Home Guarantee.

The Family Home Guarantee was announced as part of the 2021-22 Budget to support single parents with dependants. This means 10,000 guarantees are now available to eligible single parent families to build a new home or purchase an existing home with a deposit of as little as 2 per cent.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP said, “We’re giving first home buyers and single parents with children in Bonner the opportunity to enter the housing market and buy their very own home.

“By supporting single parents and their children, the Coalition Government is helping more people in Bonner achieve the security and dignity that home ownership provides.

“With the 30,000 new places available from 1 July, now is the time for potential applicants to contact a participating bank or mortgage provider and get their applications underway.”

Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Housing Michael Sukkar said that the new places will assist Australians in achieving the aspiration of home ownership.

“The First Home Loan Deposit Scheme has been a landmark success of the Morrison Government since its commencement in 2020. 30,000 first home buyers have been supported into home ownership through First Home Loan Deposit Scheme and New Home Guarantee already,” Minister Sukkar said.

“We know how difficult it can be to buy a new home or re-enter the housing market, and that saving a deposit is the hardest part of getting into home ownership. That’s why the Morrison Government has established the new Family Home Guarantee, which recognises the challenge of saving for a deposit is that much more difficult when you are a single parent with children.

The New Home Guarantee commenced on 6 October 2020 as a temporary expansion of the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme. It will provide an additional 10,000 places for first home buyers seeking to build a new home or purchase a newly built dwelling with a deposit of 5 per cent and a construction commencement timeframe of 12 months.

July 2021 marks eight years of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

This world-first insurance Scheme has changed the lives of more than 450,000 Australians with disability.

Eight years on there are now 2,300 NDIS participants in Bonner benefiting from the Scheme.

The NDIS was born from a grassroots campaign, backed by thousands of Australians. Introducing a national approach to disability support, so that people could be more independent and participate fully in their chosen communities.

The disability sector has grown from $8 billion per year across the sector in 2015-16 to $23 billion in 2020-21 on the NDIS alone.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP said with 2,300 participants in Bonner now receiving support, the eighth anniversary marked significant progress for the local community.

“So often members of my electorate tell me that NDIS has either transformed their lives or the lives of a loved one.”

“Not only does it deliver people with disabilities a new sense of independence, it impacts those around them who are always in awe of their growing confidence, happiness and motivation to live their lives to the fullest.”

“The NDIS is the result of a collective goal and hard work from so many people. It’s fantastic to see the difference it’s made to the lives of Australians with disability, especially here in Bonner.”

Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC, said importantly, the NDIS is providing support to more than 260,000 Australians who’d never previously received supports prior to the NDIS.

“We’ve seen and heard how the NDIS is changing lives – for participants and for their families”, Minister Reynolds said.

“I’ve met with so many people with disabilities and their loved ones tell me that they really value and appreciate how the NDIS allows them to feel safe and supported and with increased independence.”

Now, as we enter the Scheme’s ninth year, the Morrison Government is working on reforms to deliver improvements. For a better, fairer, simpler, and more flexible NDIS that’s affordable and will be in place for years to come.

Key highlights of the NDIS to 31 March 2021:

• More than $21.7b in funding provided to Australians with disability to access the supports they need, in the 12 months to 31 March 2021.
• 70,745 children in the 0-6 age group were being supported by the NDIS as at 31 March 2021.
• Participants from diverse backgrounds are in the Scheme at increasing rates:
• 8% of participants are from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background (up from 5.9% two years ago)
• 5% of participants are from remote and very remote areas (up from 1.2% two years ago).
• Participants formerly in residential aged care are being supported to move into alternative accommodation. Admissions to aged care for those aged under 65 has reduced by 68% in three years.
• Participants entering from State/Territory systems are receiving 50% more funded supports (on average) than before they transferred to the NDIS.

NAIDOC Week 2021 is taking place from 4 to 11 July and Tingalpa’s PCYC Queensland and Murarrie’s Goodstart Early Learning have been awarded a total of $8,600 to support their celebrations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander excellence and Australia’s rich history and culture.

This funding is part of the Morrison Government’s $1.4 million program to support local organisations celebrate NAIDOC week.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP invites everyone to get involved, learn more about local Indigenous cultures, and share in the traditions that make Australia unique.

“NAIDOC week is a great opportunity to participate in a range of activities and to support your local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities,” Mr Vasta said.

“It is also an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the rich history, diverse cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the oldest continuing cultures on the planet.

“For PCYC Queensland, this funding will support their various events across the state including community painting, flag raising ceremony, Traditional Kup Murri Celebration and more.

“For Goodstart Early Learning, it will go towards their Nangara NAIDOC event which is an opportunity to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures with children aged birth to 12 years.”

Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Ken Wyatt AM MP, explained that each year, the NAIDOC Week theme draws our attention to an important issue for everyone to consider.

“This year’s theme, Heal Country!, is a call to action to protect and preserve land, water, culture and more – for the benefit of all Australians.”

You can find out more about NAIDOC Week 2021 and the events happening near you by visiting www.naidoc.org.au

All of the events funded as part of the NAIDOC local grants program are required to have COVID-19 plans in place. It is important that anyone attending an event observes these plans and local restrictions to ensure everyone stays safe.

Businesses across Bonner are encouraged to apply for the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative grant to help strengthen Australia’s supply chain capabilities and access to critical products in times of crisis.

Applications have now opened for manufacturers– a key part of the Government’s $1.5 billion Modern Manufacturing Strategy.

Matched grants of between $50,000 and $2 million are on offer for local businesses which can help address supply chain vulnerabilities across medicines and agricultural production chemicals –which were identified as sectors of focus in the Sovereign Manufacturing Capability Plan.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP said businesses across the electorate with project ideas are encouraged to apply for funding.

“The Morrison Government is working to not only strengthen our ability to access critical products for the health and wellbeing of all Australians, but also to grow our manufacturing sector and create new jobs,” Mr Vasta.

“This initiative enables vital opportunities for businesses in Bonner to be part of important efforts when it comes to shoring up the nation’s supply chains.”

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, Christian Porter, said projects could include scaling up existing manufacturing and workforce skills capability or increasing supply chain transparency through technology.

“COVID-19 has taught us that we need to be able to have access to critical products in times of crisis and that’s why we’re investing in projects to strengthen our supply chain resilience,” Minister Porter said.

“Our initial analysis identified medicines, agricultural production chemicals – such as fertilisers – and personal protective equipment (PPE) as key sectors of focus.

“The Morrison Government has already worked side-by-side with industry, offering significant investment to scale up Australia’s ability to make PPE locally when we needed it most.

“Now we want to drive the same success for medicines and agricultural production chemicals.”

Investing in manufacturing projects to support our resilience through the $107.2 million Supply Chain Resilience Initiative is part of a range of measures the Morrison Government is delivering to bolster Australia’s supply chain resilience. This includes the establishment of the Office of Supply Chain Resilience to provide ongoing capacity to monitor vulnerabilities and coordinate whole-of-government efforts to boost supply chain resilience. It also includes the Government’s ongoing commitment to open trade and open markets, which drive our resilience by making our own economy more competitive and able to handle change.

To find out more or apply for a grant under the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative visit business.gov.au/scri

To read more in the Sovereign Manufacturing Capability Plan visit industry.gov.au/smcp

The Morrison Government is awarding complex electronics manufacturer, Crystalaid $461,118 in funding to improve their technical capabilities so Australia’s growing space sector can play a key role in NASA’s Moon to Mars project.

The second round of Moon to Mars Supply Chain Capability Improvement grants follows the allocation of more than $1 million in the first round of grants in March.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP said this grant will be a game-changer for Tingalpa based manufacturer, Crystalaid in developing their work and growing their skills and capabilities in the Australian space industry.

“Crystalaid is doing revolutionary work in the space industry, with this funding contributing towards replacing and modernising their vacuum oven technology. This upgrade will enhance their ability to supply electronics components to the international space industry, such as being used in satellite electronics systems.

“It will help Crystalaid meet new supply chain opportunities, create more jobs and deliver opportunities for skilled workers; all of which are essential for strengthening Australia’s space manufacturing.

“I am very proud to see the ongoing successes of Crystalaid, whose work contributes to better positioning Australian companies to be part of NASA’s plan to return to the moon and prepare for missions to Mars.”

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Christian Porter said the grants were designed to get more local companies involved in international supply chains and create new Australian jobs as part
of the government’s $150 million Moon to Mars initiative.

“This funding complements our $1.5 billion Modern Manufacturing Strategy which is supporting the space sector as one of the government’s six priority areas.”

Head of the Australian Space Agency Enrico Palermo congratulated the companies and said they demonstrated the high quality of work being produced in Australia.

“These grants encourage the best in our local companies, helping them develop cutting-edge technologies, create partnerships and link into national and international supply chains,” Mr
Palermo said.

“This strengthens Australian space manufacturing industry and helps build a high tech workforce that can make a significant contribution to the national economy.

“Support from the Moon to Mars initiative and other government programs, combined with the talent and innovation of local space manufacturers, is strengthening Australia’s national space
capability and enhancing Australia’s ability to compete in the international space economy.”

The $150 million Moon to Mars initiative is part of over $700 million being invested by the government into the Australian civil space sector towards the goal of tripling the sector’s size to $12
billion and creating up to an extra 20,000 jobs by 2030.

The Moon to Mars Supply Chain Capability Improvement program offers grants between $250,000 and $1 million, with applications open until 30 June 2023.

To apply for a grant and for more information, visit https://www.business.gov.au/M2MSupplyChain

Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta MP has today launched a Bayside Mental Health Survey representing the first stage of the plan to secure increased mental health funding and local services in the area.

Mr Vasta said, “I have recognised the need for increased mental health services across the Bayside and am eager to understand where support is needed.”

To best understand what is happening on a local level, Mr Vasta is calling on Bayside community members to take part in the quick survey; whose contribution will be invaluable in determining where support must be delivered.

“Everyone knows someone struggling with mental health and I am committed to supporting initiatives and services that help those in our community achieve their best possible mental health.

“To understand what is happening in our neighbourhoods, how and where mental health services are being accessed as well as where the opportunities are, this information must come from locals. This is regardless of whether they use the services themselves or are a friend, family member or carer of someone accessing support.

“That’s why I have launched the Bayside Mental Health Survey, where the responses will help to drill down on where the key needs are in our community.

“As part of the plan, I am thrilled to be involving experts in the field of mental health spanning service providers, community groups, schools, GP’s and more to develop solutions and make sure we are bridging these gaps.”

Supporting mental health is a key priority of the Morrison Government, who made a $2.3 billion commitment to the sector as part of the recent 2021-22 Federal Budget. This plan will ensure the funding included as part of the Budget will benefit the Bayside.

To take part in the Bayside Mental Health Survey, please click: here.

All survey responses will be kept anonymous and completely confidential.

Do not hesitate to reach out for mental health support. Anyone experiencing distress can seek immediate advice and support through headspace (https://headspace.org.au/eheadspace/), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), Beyond Blue (1300 224 636), Lifeline (13 11 14), or the Government’s digital mental health gateway, Head to Health (www.headtohealth.gov.au).

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP was recently updated on the construction progress of a new senior playground at Wishart State School thanks to $350,000 in funding by the Morrison Government.

Visiting Wishart State School, Mr Vasta said he was pleased the construction of the school’s very first senior playground was about to get underway for students in years 4,5 and 6.

“Wishart State School has seen enrolment numbers increase by hundreds over the past few years and this new playground will support students experience as the school continues to grow.”

“The playground has been part of the school’s vision for over 20 years, so it is incredibly special to know what it will mean for both the school and local community.”

“What is particularly wonderful about the plan for the playground, is that everyone has been able to have a say, including the students and the parents. In fact, some of the designs prepared by the year 6 students have been incorporated.”

“The Morrison Government is backing our local schools and enabling real improvements just like those to Wishart State School; with a playground that will cater to all abilities for the senior students as well as specialty equipment for the students with special needs.”

Wishart State School Principal Yolanda Tognini said, “Our school is very grateful for this funding and to see the senior playground come to life in the imminent future. We look forward to welcoming Mr Vasta back as the progress unfolds.”

The Governor-General, His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) has announced The Queen’s Birthday 2021 Honours list.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP congratulated the five locals from the Bonner electorate who received honours for their outstanding contribution to the community.

“I am always out and about in the community, meeting and getting to know our locals. In every exchange I am continuously touched by the acts of selflessness and generosity that are displayed,” Mr Vasta said.

“As part of The Queen’s Birthday 2021 Honours list, I am proud to recognise the five incredible individuals from Bonner who have demonstrated exceptional achievements.”

“Each of their unique stories span a variety of fields, such as law, creative arts, community groups, education as well as supporting those who are blind or have low vision.”

2021 Queen’s Birthday Honour recipients for Bonner:
• Mr Brian Boulton (Carindale): For significant service to the law, and to the judiciary, particularly to District Courts.
• Mr George Amarandos (Carindale): For service to the Greek community of Queensland.
• Mrs Judith Connors (Carindale): For service to the creative arts, particularly as a tatter and lace maker.
• Associate Professor Sarah Kelly (Lota): For service to tertiary education, and to sports administration.
• Mr Lorin Nicholson (Mansfield): For service to people who are blind or have low vision.

“Awards like The Queen’s Birthday Honours list are a heartening reminder of the difference we can all make on a local level,” Mr Vasta said.

“I thank all the Australians who were awarded for their service and congratulate them on this recognition.”

As part of Men’s Health Week, the Australian Government is encouraging Men’s Sheds across Bonner to apply for funding as part of the newest round of the National Men’s Shed Development Programme (NDSP).

Opening this week, Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP encouraged all Sheds in Bonner to apply for Round 22 of the NDSP.

“Men’s Sheds are friendly and inclusive settings where men can meet to work with tools and equipment, or just spend time together, to support each other’s mental and physical good health,” Mr Vasta.

“Our Government is committed to ensuring that even doing the pandemic, members can stay in touch and continue to providing meaningful contributions to their communities.”

Men’s Sheds can apply for financial support across the following funding categories:
• Category 1: Health, Wellbeing, and Events $8,000 maximum
• Category 2: Shed Improvements $8,000 maximum
• Category 3: Equipment $5,000 maximum

Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt, said connection was the key to the success of the more than 1,000 Men’s Sheds around the country.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has been tough for many Australians, and it is vitally important that Shed Members remained connected to their community during this time,” Minister Hunt said.

“As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting Men’s Sheds, we provided $500,000 to Sheds around Australia in the latest round of NDSP grants and $6.4 million in grant funding to support Men’s Sheds since 2013.”

Regional Health Minister, Mark Coulton, said Men’s Sheds play a vital role in regional Australia, becoming one of the most important regional organisations.

“Men’s Sheds provide a safe and friendly environment for men to gather and or work on meaningful projects, with the ultimate aim of improving the health and wellbeing of their members,” Minister Coulton said.

“I am also pleased to announce that work will soon begin on the $1.5 million Regional Coordinators for Men’s Sheds Initiative, which helps Men’s Sheds to connect with local health services and promote health events for their members.”

Men’s Sheds Associations in WA, Tasmania, Victoria and Queensland will be funded to introduce regional coordinators in those states.

The Australian Men’s Shed Association, which manages the NSDP, has also received funding under the Initiative to implement regional coordinators in NSW, the ACT, SA and the NT. Regional coordinators will be introduced in every state and territory.

Applications for the next round of Men’s Sheds grants is open until 26 July 2021. Those wanting to submit an application can visit https://mensshed.org/development-grants.

The Morrison Government is building on its support for small businesses by $8 million to extend the Go Local First campaign for another 12 months.

The national campaign, which is coordinated by the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA), urges Australians to buy locally in their communities as part of our COVID-19 recovery.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP said this was great news for the 14,556 small businesses in Bonner who contribute to making sure the local economy thrives.

“I am so thrilled to see the Morrison Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting our local small businesses,” Mr Vasta said.

“Campaigns just like Go Local First are driving awareness for more Australians to buy local, especially during this time when we are focused on securing our recovery and creating more local jobs.”

“I recently had the pleasure of catching up with Rachel Ooi who is a Financial Advisor at Your Wealth Consultants in Wynnum. It was fantastic to hear her support for how the Morrison Government is backing businesses, giving them the confidence during this time to ensure they are continuing to achieve their goals and exceed their targets.”

“Having businesses expand or new businesses open in Bonner on a regular basis makes me so proud to see the Morrison Government’s recovery plan in action. I encourage everyone in our local community to support this campaign and remember to Go Local First!”

Minister for Employment, Workforce, Skills, Small and Family Business, Stuart Robert, said Go Local First is aimed at strengthening local economies and creating local jobs amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Australia’s 3.5 million small and family-owned businesses are the lifeblood of our local communities and have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19 economic conditions,” Minister Robert said.

“As we rebuild from COVID-19, the Morrison Government is ensuring small and family businesses can benefit by building confidence in our community to shop locally.”

Minister Robert said the campaign, launched in July 2020, will run throughout 2021 and into next year, highlighting the crucial role small business plays in our nation’s economy, in keeping communities thriving and creating local jobs.

Research showed 78 per cent of those who had seen the campaign said they would spend with small local businesses over multinationals, compared with only 56 per cent of those who had not seen the campaign.

The campaign will build on this success achieved throughout 2020 in encouraging Australians to choose local small businesses when buying products and services to help support local jobs. For more information, visit www.golocalfirst.com.au.

Image: Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP and Your Wealth Consultants Wynnum Financial Advisor Rachel Ooi.