Category: Media Releases

COFFEE WITH A COP TALKS BAYSIDE CRIME AND SAFETY

Local residents from the bayside and Gumdale-Wakerley areas joined officers from Wynnum Police, as well as volunteers from Crime Stoppers and Volunteers in Policing, at Coffee with a Cop hosted by Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta, in Manly West last Saturday.

Coffee with a Cop gave members of the community an opportunity to get to know their local police officers, discuss with them their experiences with crime, and seek advice on protecting their homes and properties from lawbreakers.

“I have received a fair amount of feedback from my constituents on local crime and safety. It’s a particularly vital issue for residents in the Gumdale-Wakerley area,” Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta said.

“This Coffee with a Cop was designed to start a conversation on crime in the area, and allow residents and local law enforcement to share their ideas on how to reduce and deter crime in the neighbourhood.”

Mr Vasta said the main issues of concern in the area were break-and-enters and hooning.

“It was great to see so many people taking the time to discuss local crime and help make our community safer,” Mr Vasta said.

“I will be using feedback from this Coffee with a Cop to develop a community-based program aimed at reducing crime and making the bayside and Gumdale-Wakerley neighbourhoods safer for everyone.”

“I will also be hosting more Coffee with a Cop sessions elsewhere in Bonner later this year, so stay tuned.”

Mr Vasta encouraged members of the public to complete his online Community Safety Survey at https://rossvasta.com.au/Surveys/CommunitySafetySurvey.aspx.

He also thanked members of Volunteers in Policing for offering free security assessments for homes and businesses in the area, and encouraged locals to contact Wynnum Police Station for more information.

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LOCAL DRUG ACTION TEAMS TO HELP FIGHT ICE, DRUG AND ALCOHOL ADDICTION

 The second round of applications is now open for local organisations to join the Turnbull Government’s Local Drug Action Team program.

Community groups across Australia are joining forces to deliver targeted local action to help tackle drug use and addiction.

“We need to work together to fight the scourge of ice and other drugs which cause so much harm to individuals, families and our communities,” Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta said.

Mr Vasta said the four-year $298 million program would help address local drug addiction issues, including those raised at the Bonner Ice Forum and roundtable he previously hosted with local law enforcement, medical experts, community leaders, and individuals affected by ice.

Local Drug Action Teams is a community driven program that supports local organisations to work together to develop and deliver local solutions to reduce the harm of ice, drugs and alcohol,” Mr Vasta said.

The Alcohol and Drug Foundation will support the program to develop and deliver evidence-based community level planning and action.

Each successful Local Drug Action Team will receive minimum initial funding of $10,000 to support the further development of their local plan for on-the-ground prevention activities. 

Community teams can apply for funding of up to $40,000 per annum to support the prevention activities and priorities they have identified in response to local issues.

“I’m calling on concerned community groups in Bonner to join together and take advantage of this program,” Mr Vasta said.

“Membership of each team might include representatives from local councils, schools, police, youth services, primary health services and treatment services, community groups, non-government organisations and interested community members.”

Examples of the sorts of activities Local Drug Action Teams might undertake could include:

·         Fighting the scourge of ice in communities by promoting and disseminating evidence-based information and encouraging people to access available support;

·         Working with vulnerable people to improve engagement with education/employment services;

·         Providing support and information for parents and carers to talk to each other and their children about alcohol and other drug issues;

·         Developing local solutions for reducing alcohol-related violence and other drug harms in community spaces.

Applications are now open until 14 July 2017.

Details about the program, community support material and application documentation is available on the Alcohol and Drug Foundation website at www.adf.org.au

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2017-landcare-awards-logo

Landcare award nominations now open

Member for Bonner Ross Vasta is urging residents to nominate a local environmental hero for the 2017 State Landcare Awards.

Mr Vasta said local Landcare groups and volunteers deserved to be recognised for their passion and commitment to conservation and the work they do to maintain our local environment.

“Landcare is an important part of the Australian Government’s billion dollar plus investment in improving the condition of our natural resources including soil health.”

“As a result it is vital we acknowledge those individuals, partnerships and organisations that are carrying out this essential work.”

Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister, Luke Hartsuyker said these awards are a timely reminder to encourage people to get involved in their local community but also an opportunity to acknowledge the many significant environmental and agricultural outcomes being achieved around our nation.

“We can’t have a sustainable agricultural industry without looking after its productive base – soil management, weed, pest and disease management, water management and biodiversity,” said Mr Hartsuyker.

This year there are nine categories in the state and territory Landcare awards including sustainable farming, indigenous land management, young land carers, coast care and innovation.

Nominations for the Queensland awards are now open and will close on the 7th September 2017.
For more information visit: https://e-award.com.au/2017/landcareawards/newentry/about.php

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NEW FUNDING GRANT FOR WYNNUM-MANLY & DISTRICTS MEN’S SHED

The Turnbull Government is providing $4,000 in funding to Wynnum Manly and Districts Men’s Shed for the purchase of much-needed tools and equipment including a defibrillator and wall-mounted cabinet, as well as for first aid and CPR training for 20 of its members.

Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta said he was pleased to be able to provide the funding, which comes on top of the Government’s $100,000 investment into Wynnum Manly and Districts Men’s Shed announced last year that will assist with the installation and fitting out of their new shed side at Manly West. 

“The Wynnum Manly and Districts Men’s Shed has a long and proud history of helping local men connect with each other to work on meaningful projects, preventing social isolation and bringing the community closer together,” Mr Vasta said.

“This grant will mean a lot to the Men’s Shed members and the broader Wynnum-Manly community and I congratulate them on their success.”

President of Wynnum Manly and Districts Men’s Shed, David Westlake, thanked Mr Vasta for his support in securing the funding.

“We are over-the-moon with this announcement and would like to thank the Government for their continuing support,” Mr Westlake said.

This grant funding is part of the $5.1 million the Federal Government has provided to the Australian Men’s Shed Association through to 2018-19 to support the national network of Men’s Sheds.

“This funding round helps Men’s Sheds to buy tools and equipment, support community projects and training, maintain or develop their buildings, or create local activities to improve men’s health,” Mr Vasta said.

Details of all successful grant recipients from this National Shed Development Program funding round are available at www.mensshed.org

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2017 Budget Great News for Bonner

The Turnbull Government’s 2017 Budget is delivering on Health, Child Care, Aged Care, Employment and reform on Banks, just to name a few, to ensure our nation’s economy to secure better days ahead for the hard working people of the Bonner electorate.

The Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta said our economic growth has been hard won but we shouldn’t take our success for granted. My government is helping hardworking Australians in Bonner with a plan for more and better jobs, by securing the essentials they rely on and by easing cost of living pressures.

 

Tackling Housing Affordability and Cost of Living Pressures

Mr Vasta said the government has listened to the Australian people and is delivering tougher measures to ease housing affordability pressure for all.

The 2017 budget allows first homebuyers to save for a deposit in their superannuation, and attract generous tax concessions, introduces superannuation incentives for older Australians downsizing, funding for homelessness and social housing, especially for domestic violence victims and youth. As well as this the government has launched tougher real estate rules for foreign investors to make sure they pay their fair share of tax and don’t leave properties empty.

Mr Vasta said “the Turnbull Government understands that the cost of living is a priority for Australians, whether it is being able to afford a roof over your head, or pay for rising power prices.  And that’s why the 2017 Budget tackles these issues head on.”

“As well as tackling housing costs my government is also making child care more accessible and affordable – providing the greatest level of assistance to those who need it most.

“With more than 10,210 families in Bonner who rely on childcare it’s vital that we make sure all children have access to important early education facilities regardless of their circumstances at home.”

 

Strengthening Small Business and Increasing Employment

The 2017 Budget delivers greater opportunities for small business. We are extending the $20,000 instant asset write off for local small businesses for a further twelve months and lifting the threshold to $10 million.

The government is also delivering small and medium business tax cuts helping the 15,722 business in Bonner-with turnovers of up to $50 million if they are incorporated, and up to $5 million if they are unincorporated.

A new $1.5 billion Skilling Australians Fund announced by the Turnbull Government will provide new opportunities for local jobseekers, students and industry in Bonner. Mr Vasta said the Government is also establishing a $60 million Industry Special Mentoring for Australian Apprentices scheme that will help people complete their training.  The Skilling Australians Fund will create an extra 300,000 apprenticeships in priority industries and occupations across Australia and that’s great news for the Bonner.

“These assurances for the business industry will enable local business owners to employ more people and invest more back into our economy Australia in my electorate of Bonner,”  said Mr Vasta.

“We are investing in building Australia with over $70 billion to transport infrastructure to reduce congestion, revitalise our cities and grow our regions, using a combination of grant funding, loans and equity investments.” 

“A $10 billion transformational National Rail Program will deliver rail projects across the nation that better connect our cities, regions and create new opportunities for housing, and grow the economy.”

 

Coalition Committed to Health

The 2017-18 budget includes a $10 billion package to invest in Australia’s health system including an additional $2.8 billion for public hospitals to reduce wait times.

The government has increased funding for mental health services and research as well as investing $10.8 million to fight childhood cancer.

“In this budget we have guaranteed Medicare with a Medicare Guarantee Fund that will only pay for Medicare and medicines.

“We’re also delivering a fully funded NDIS, by implementing a .5% increase to the Medicare levy in 2019 to ensure a secure future for Australian’s with disability which is great news for the 2,379 people in Bonner who are reliant on disability support services,” Mr Vasta said.

 

Greater support for vulnerable Australians

The government has further strengthened its support for mental health and suicide prevention with a package of over $170 million, including enhanced access to mental health services for Veterans and their families.

“Providing additional support for veterans is vital to ensuring we support our returned servicemen and women and the sacrifices they make for our country. In particular it’s great to see that this support will directly impact more than 1,024 veterans and their families residing in Bonner,” said Mr Vasta.

The government has extended the domestic violence unit pilot, established as part of the Women’s safety package whilst also ensuring ongoing funding for community legal centers and investing further into legal assistance. Mr Vasta said he is delighted to be a part of a government that is delivering for the betterment of others.

The right choices to make sure the government lives within its means

The Government will continue to ensure multinationals pay their fair share of tax. Our actions have already raised $2.9 billion in tax liabilities this financial year against a group of just seven large multinational companies, and are expected to raise more than $4 billion in total this financial year from large public groups and multinationals.

“We will also continue to focus on stopping people trying to take an easy ride on our welfare system by strengthening mutual obligation requirements for payments and cracking down on those seeking to get out of those obligations,” Mr Vasta said.

“The Turnbull Government is also making our financial system better for customers and taxpayers through greater competition, accountability and fairness. This will include a Banking Executive Accountability Regime; an investigation into financial system competition and a levy on large banks, securing $6.2 billion to support budget repair.”

“The Turnbull Government has made the right choices to secure better days ahead for all Australians and their families.”

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FUNDING ESTIMATOR FOR BONNER SCHOOLS LAUNCHED

A new schools funding estimator is set to help parents, teachers, principals and school communities in the Bonner electorate see exactly how they stand to benefit from the Turnbull Government’s new $18.6 billion needs-based schools funding plan.

Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta said the new online estimator showed that schools across the local area would benefit from a funding increase of $21.3 million between 2017 and 2021.

“This new estimator will give parents, teachers and principals the information they need about our needs-based funding plan to make long-term plans for the future of each child and each school,” Mr Vasta said.

“I’m pleased to report that all 44 schools in my electorate will benefit from increased funding under our new funding plan,” Mr Vasta said.

“Our plan invests an additional $21.3 million of needs-based funding into Bonner schools over the next four years. We’re delivering long-term funding certainty for schools and communities and ensuring everybody is treated fairly and equitably.

“Our plan factors in the background, family life, levels of disability and socioeconomic status of each student and school to ensure funding is truly needs-based and fair.

“We’re delivering the real ‘Gonski’ needs-based funding model that Labor didn’t.

“Everyone can see for themselves exactly how our plan will benefit their school by visiting www.education.gov.au/qualityschools and clicking through to the Schools Funding Estimator.”

Minister for Education and Training Simon Birmingham said the Turnbull Government’s plan would transform Australian schools. 

“Our plan will set students on the path to academic excellence and achieve real needs-based funding for students from all backgrounds, in every town and city, in every region and state, in every classroom,” Minister Birmingham said. 

Further details of the Turnbull Government’s Quality Schools reform package are available at: www.education.gov.au/qualityschools 

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GIVING BACK TO OUR VOLUNTEERS IN BONNER

Volunteers in Bonner are among nearly 100,000 volunteers across Australia benefiting from $10 million in Australian Government grants to support community organisations.

Minister for Social Services, Christian Porter, announced that almost 2,700 community organisations would benefit from a grant to support the work of volunteers.

Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta, said the Turnbull Government’s investment in our communities is delivering vital support to the electorate’s small community organisations, which help many of our most vulnerable citizens.

“The Volunteer Grants will assist a range of local groups including Make it Home Safely and the South Western Metro Basketball Inc.

“Five groups in the Bonner electorate have been awarded this funding and will each receive a grant of up to $5,000 allowing them to better support their volunteers by purchasing much-needed equipment, training and transport,” Mr Vasta said.

“This week is National Volunteer Week and it’s only fitting that we acknowledge the important work of our volunteers and their organisations in building stronger communities.
 
“The energy, expertise and time our volunteers give to our community helps support those most in need and represents what Australian communities are all about – giving a helping hand. 

“I’m glad to see that our local organisations in Bonner will have this support to continue their valuable work.”

For a full list of successful recipients and information about Volunteer Grants, go to:
www.dss.gov.au/volunteer-grants.

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Jessica Thomas Announced as April’s Bonner Bright Star!

Federal MP Ross Vasta has announced his second Bonner Bright Star Winner for 2017.

Today the Bonner MP announced 11-year-old Jessica Thomas from Moreton Bay College was chosen as the award recipient for April.

Jessica was nominated by her teacher for he outstanding efforts in sport, her dedication to her schooling, her consistent efforts as a peer role model and her acting abilities which have led her to be invited to Disneyland to undertake a special program later this year.

Mr Vasta said it was awe inspiring to read the amazing work that Jessica is doing.

“When I saw the nomination form for Jessica I was blown away, there’s no doubt that Jessica is a shining star.

Mr Vasta said, “not only is she is an outstanding student, sporting star, and aspiring actor she is also an excellent role model for all children and even some adults.”

Nominations are now open for the May Bonner Bright Star award, for a nomination award call the Bonner electorate office on 3893 3488.

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LOCAL ANZAC DAY 2017 SERVICES IN BONNER

Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta said the local community would pause on Anzac Day to honour the service and sacrifice of all Australian men and women who have served in defence of our country.

Mr Vasta said the following services and marches would be held in Bonner:

Bayside National Service Association
6:10am: Service commences at Memorial at Darling Point-Lower Esplanade, Manly.

Manly-Lota RSL Sub-Branch
4:15am: Dawn Service commences, followed by Gun Fire Breakfast at the Hall (184 Melville Tce, Manly).
8:00am: Street March commences outside Manly State School (63 Ernest St, Manly) and is followed by the ANZAC Day service at Richard Russell Park, Cambridge Pde, Manly.

Wynnum RSL Sub-Branch
5:00am: Dawn Service commences at Wynnum RSL car park (174 Tingal Rd, Wynnum).
9:00am: March commences from Corner of Bay Tce and Cedar St.
9:30am: Wreath laying ceremony commences at conclusion of March in the RSL car park.

Holland Park-Mt Gravatt RSL Sub-Branch

6:30am: Muster at the corner of Logan Rd and Barter Ave, Holland Park.
6:50am: March commences (walking to Memorial Site, 58 Arnold St, Holland Park).
7:15am: Commemorative Service commences at Memorial Site, 58 Arnold St, Holland Park.

Mr Vasta said Anzac Day was one of the most important dates in our calendar.

“More than 50,000 Australians are estimated to have fought in the Gallipoli campaign, where some 8,700 lost their lives and almost 18,000 were wounded,” Mr Vasta said.

“On Anzac Day, I encourage Australians to take a moment and reflect on the brave men and women who have served our nation in all wars, conflicts and on peacekeeping operations.

“I encourage everyone to attend a service on Anzac Day, or take time to pause, reflect and remember those who have served and those who have given their lives for our country.

“We are forever grateful to the men and women, past and present, who have served in our Army, Navy and Air Force.

“This year also marks the centenary of the Battle of Bullecourt in France, the Battle of Messines, the Battle of Polygon Wood and the Battle of Beersheeva, as well as the 75th anniversaries of the Fall of Singapore, the Bombing of Darwin and the Kokoda campaign — they are all important events from our history that this nation will never forget.

Mr Vasta said any current or former Australian Defence Force personnel who was affected by Anzac Day should contact the Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service, which provides free and confidential counselling 24/7 on 1800 011 046.

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BACKING BONNER’S SMALL BUSINESSES

FEDERAL Member for Bonner Ross Vasta was joined today by Small Business Minister Michael McCormack to discuss how the Government’s small business plan was helping local small businesses to grow and create local jobs. 

“It’s great to have the Minister here today to visit local small businesses in my electorate of Bonner,” Mr Vasta said. 

“The Government has a strong plan to back Bonner’s small businesses, including cutting their taxes to the lowest level in half a century and giving more small businesses access to the instant asset write offs programme which is already helping so many local businesses buy new equipment. 

“As a Government, we have delivered for small business because we know that it is small business, not Government which creates jobs, and we are backing them to have a go. 

“The Minister and I also hosted a roundtable with local small businesses today because Government is about delivering but it’s also about listening, and we heard from a variety of local business owners about their challenges and opportunities. 

“Together with the Minister, I will take those issues to Canberra to make sure our local views are considered in future policy development.” 

Minister McCormack said the Government’s economic plan focuses on supporting small businesses to grow, invest and create jobs. 

“It is a pleasure to be here today with Ross Vasta. He is a great local member and true advocate for local small business, local communities and local jobs,” Mr McCormack said. 

“Ross Vasta is part of a Coalition Government in Canberra which is focused on supporting small business to get ahead by cutting company taxes, extending the unincorporated tax discount, slashing paperwork, opening up trade opportunities, and levelling the playing field through changes to competition policy and making sure multinationals pay their fair share of tax. 

“Our plan is all about taking the pressure off small business – the local job creators – so they can get on with running and growing their businesses, and building local opportunities.” 

You can find out more by searching ‘small business’ or visiting www.business.gov.au/smallbusiness

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