With the State election results nearly confirmed, I would like to thank you, the members of the Nanango Electorate, for putting your faith in me to continue as your representative in the State Parliament.
I am humbled by the election results for our Electorate, and regardless of the final composition of the Parliament, I will continue to fight for our fair share in our region.
And if you didn’t vote for me, I respect and value that our democracy allows differences of opinions. I hope that I can earn your trust during the next term and would welcome your feedback at any time.
I would also like to acknowledge the volunteers, friends and family who have done so much over the past weeks and months to support myself and the LNP.
I’m looking forward to getting on with the job and continuing to represent this wonderful region.
My passion and commitment to keep working hard for our community is as strong as ever and I hope to see you out and about on my travels around the Nanango Electorate.
Deb Frecklington
Member for Nanango
A Tim Nicholls-led LNP Government will Build a Better Darling Downs with a comprehensive plan to tackle the cost of living, build the infrastructure the region needs and tackle out of control crime rates.
LNP Deputy Leader Deb Frecklington unveiled the plan in Toowoomba today with a major focus on building infrastructure for the region.
"Labor isn’t interested in investing in regional infrastructure and they are certainly not interested in investing in the bridge projects our state needs," Ms Frecklington said.
"Enough is enough. This is why an LNP Government will invest $3 million to upgrade the Warrego Highway/Fairways Drive intersection, $4.5 million to upgrade the Warrego Highway Withcott Controlled intersection and $900,000 to upgrade the Forest Hill-Fernvale Road.
"Instead of sitting around talking about it, the LNP has put its money where its mouth is and will actually deliver these vital projects for our state that will create local jobs.
"Labor are certainly not interested in delivering these projects for communities across Queensland – they are more interested in building a $15 billion tunnel in Brisbane."
LNP Candidate for Lockyer Jim McDonald said an LNP Government would improve road and pedestrian safety in Withcott.
"The LNP will invest $4.5 million to investigate and construct pedestrian connections in Withcott, which is cut by the Warrego Highway," Mr McDonald said.
"The Withcott community is currently split by the Warrego Highway, with schools and shops on both sides.
"Upon completion of the Toowoomba Second Range Crossing an opportunity exists to reconnect the separated community."
Mr McDonald said an LNP Government would also invest $80 million to improve and upgrade key bridges across Regional Queensland.
"An LNP Government will invest $255,000 towards reconstructing Cran Bridge/Stockyard Creek Rd in the Lockyer Valley," Mr McDonald said.
"This program will include replacing timber bridges, safety works on existing bridges, improved signage for motorists and capacity upgrades to increase bridge load limits.
"We will also invest $4.5 million in upgrading Oakey-Cooyar Road, Bowenville-Moola Road and Oakey-Pittsworth and Warrego Highway Intersection as a part of our Beef Roads projects.
"These projects will ensure the growth of our state’s livestock and agricultural industries and facilitate the movement of cattle to ports and processing facilities.
"By beefing up our beef roads we will unlock new road freight routes for higher productivity vehicles as well as improving safety, flood and disaster resilience."
LNP Member for Toowoomba North Trevor Watts said the LNP would tackle traffic congestion by investing $5 million for vital upgrades to bust congestion at the North and Ruthven Streets intersection.
"For too long the Toowoomba community has been stuck in traffic because Annastacia Palaszczuk has done nothing to fix congestion," Mr Watts said.
"The LNP Government will invest $5 million to reconfigure the intersection of North Street and Ruthven Street.
"Over recent years this junction has seen significant traffic increases resulting in delays. We will build turning lanes to reduce congestion and get Toowoomba residents to work and home sooner.
"An LNP Government will also invest $3.5 million to expand the Highfields Sport and Recreation Park to provide quality and accessible sport and recreation facilities for the community now and into the future.
"We will also tackle the scourge of ICE by implementing a $52.21 million action plan to take ICE off our streets.
"As a part of this plan we will build a dedicated ICE rehab centre in Toowoomba."
Mr Watts said the LNP would promote the Darling Downs region to interstate and international visitors through a new marketing campaign.
"An LNP Government will invest $1.5 million on a Taste Queensland campaign encouraging domestic and international tourists to visit Queensland’s unique food and wine regions," Mr Watts said.
"We will also encourage our domestic and international visitors to take the opportunity to experience the Darling Down’s diverse agriculture opportunities and enjoy a farm stay.
"An LNP Government will plan for the future by creating a Hospital Planning Commission to deliver a Hospital Master Plan for Toowoomba.
"We need to start planning now so we can meet the demands of the growing Darling Downs community in the future.
"We will also make it easier for Toowoomba residents to work and play in other parts of the southeast by investing $2.5 million to progress a business case for a Southeast Queensland Very Fast Train network."
Mr McDonald said the LNP would upgrade the Lowood Police Station with a $2 million investment in community safety.
"We strongly support our dedicated police officers, and believe the facilities and equipment they rely on should be maintained to the highest standards," Mr McDonald said.
"This is why an LNP Government will invest $2 million to upgrade the Lowood Police Station.
"An LNP Government will also support local farmers by investing $1 million to help Lockyer Valley irrigators access the National Water Development Fund.
"We will also invest in Queensland’s future with a $2.5 million investment in Lockyer and Brisbane Valley schools.
"As a part of our comprehensive $2.25 million schools package, an LNP Government will air condition classrooms, refurbish buildings and purchase new equipment for eight schools in the region."
Ms Frecklington said an LNP Government would focus on building local infrastructure and creating a safe and liveable Darling Downs.
"Queenslanders need to ask themselves if they can afford another Labor Government which has chosen to ignore the people of Darling Downs," Ms Frecklington said.
"A vote for anyone other than the LNP will see a return of a do-nothing Labor Government which has the wrong priorities and has taken the people of the Darling Downs region for granted.
"Only the LNP will Build a Better Queensland by Building a Better Darling Downs."
LNP Nanango MP Deb Frecklington, and LNP Candidate for Lockyer, Jim McDonald, have announced that a future LNP Government will commit $100,000 to an independent study for the Mid Brisbane River Irrigators (MBRI) group.
Mrs Frecklington said the commitment will fund an independent study to determine benefits or services Mid Brisbane River Irrigators have received since the construction of the Somerset and Wivenhoe Dams.
“This study is important because it will address a requirement to investigate the level of service provided by Seqwater to its customers of the water supply scheme,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“It provides an opportunity for the Mid Brisbane River Irrigators to secure independent information about their specific situation in relation to how the dams affect their properties.
Candidate for Lockyer, Jim McDonald said if elected to Government, it was one of his key priorities to assist the MBRI address this issue.
“These are farm owners below the Wivenhoe Dam wall who are impacted each time there is a significant rain event,” Mr McDonald said.
“The study will help gather much-needed data to better understand and document the real cost of major floods in the mid-Brisbane River to these farmers.
“This commitment comes on top of the LNP’s $1 million announced for the Lockyer Valley Water Pipeline. This pledge will help Lockyer Valley irrigators make an application to the National Water Infrastructure Development Fund to deliver a much-needed water pipeline.
“The issue of water security for local irrigators is vital for our region and the LNP understands that investment in local projects creates local jobs.
“A water pipeline in the Valley will ensure we secure our water future and our $1 million contribution will go a long way to ensuring we get our application for federal funding spot on,” Mr McDonald said.
“Only the LNP can be trusted to deliver better water infrastructure and support for our primary producers.”
Member for Nanango, Deb Frecklington says the report confirming Labor’s 50 per cent renewable energy target will close power stations in Queensland is seriously bad news for Tarong Power Station and the South Burnett community.
Mrs Frecklington said the alarming report, – by the Australian Institute of Progress – has found Tarong Power Station would be forced to close as early as 2018/19.
“This report confirms what we have suspected for a while now, Labor’s 50 per cent renewable energy target would result in the closure of Queensland’s coal-fired power stations from next year,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“The South Burnett relies on Stanwell’s Tarong Power Station and Meandu Mine. What we are seeing here is Annastacia Palaszczuk putting Greens preferences ahead of our workers and our community.
“It’s lights out under Labor.
LNP Leader of the Opposition, Tim Nicholls said Labor’s reckless renewable energy rush would cost more than $10.8 billion in subsidies – yet more subsidies that taxpayers and households could not afford.
“The Expert Panel Labor established on renewable energy also found Labor’s policy would cost jobs,” Mr Nicholls said.
“Labor’s Expert Panel found ‘the projected gain in renewable energy jobs is less than the projected loss of other electricity sector jobs’.
“Only the LNP has a plan to deliver cheaper electricity and save households $780 over the next three years.
“We will write down the regulated asset base to lower network costs.
“We will increase competition in the wholesale electricity market by restructuring the Government-owned generators from two to three.
“We will support the National Energy Guarantee, saving households $300 a year compared to Labor’s 50 per cent renewable energy target.
“We will build a high-efficiency, low emissions coal-fired power station with the private sector in North Queensland.
“A secret Palaszczuk Government report has found a HELE coal-fired power will lower electricity prices, increase supply, boost energy security and create jobs.
“Only the LNP has a credible electricity plan – not a policy based on idiocy and ideology.”
Queensland Productivity Commission Electricity Pricing Report 2016 – Page 81
“Generators in Queensland would experience a decrease in total earnings of around $6.2 billion or 15 per cent.”
“The Queensland Government, as owner of the majority of carbon generators in Queensland, would incur the largest financial cost.”
Labor’s Expert Panel on Renewable Energy
From Labor’s own renewable energy report “the projected gain in renewable energy jobs is less than the projected loss of other electricity sector jobs” – page 117
Labor’s renewable energy expert panel report
Report after report has now confirmed Labor’s extreme 50 per cent renewable energy target will cost jobs, cause energy insecurity and increase electricity prices.
LNP Leader Tim Nicholls said the latest alarming report – by the Australian Institute of Progress – had found Labor’s 50 per cent renewable energy target would result in the closure of Queensland’s coal-fired power stations from next year.
“Workers will be left stranded, electricity prices will increase and Queenslanders will be left in the dark with more blackouts,” Mr Nicholls said.
“It’s lights out under Labor.
“Not only the power station workers, but the workers in coal mines will also lose their jobs if Queensland’s coal-fired power stations are forced to close.
“Annastacia Palaszczuk is putting Greens preferences ahead of workers at the Tarong and Gladstone power stations.
“Labor’s own Queensland Productivity Commission found Annastacia Palaszczuk’s renewable energy target would cost existing Queensland generators over $6 billion.”
Mr Nicholls said Labor’s reckless renewable energy rush would cost more than $10.8 billion in subsidies – yet more subsidies that taxpayers and households could not afford.
“The Expert Panel Labor established on renewable energy also found Labor’s policy would cost jobs,” Mr Nicholls said.
“Labor’s Expert Panel found ‘the projected gain in renewable energy jobs is less than the projected loss of other electricity sector jobs’.
“Only the LNP has a plan to deliver cheaper electricity and save households $780 over the next three years.
“We will write down the regulated asset base to lower network costs.
“We will increase competition in the wholesale electricity market by restructuring the Government-owned generators from two to three.
“We will support the National Energy Guarantee, saving households $300 a year compared to Labor’s 50 per cent renewable energy target.
“We will build a high-efficiency, low emissions coal-fired power station with the private sector in North Queensland.
“A secret Palaszczuk Government report has found a HELE coal-fired power will lower electricity prices, increase supply, boost energy security and create jobs.
“Only the LNP has a credible electricity plan – not a policy based on idiocy and ideology.”
Queensland Productivity Commission Electricity Pricing Report 2016 – Page 81
Labor’s Expert Panel on Renewable Energy
The LNP will improve weed and pest management by investing an additional $25 million for cluster fencing, targeted baiting programs, strategic spraying and infrastructure to stop the spread of seeds as part of its comprehensive agriculture policy.
LNP Leader Tim Nicholls said the multi-million-dollar plan would harness the potential for driving agriculture growth and creating jobs across the state.
He said the LNP’s comprehensive policy also included grants for wild dog fencing to help stem the decline in sheep numbers in Western Queensland.
“The LNP recognises that our agriculture, fisheries and forestry industries underpin a strong state economy,” Mr Nicholls said.
“These sectors have been under constant attack since Annastacia Palaszczuk took power. Labor have treated our farmers and primary producers like criminals.
“We will partner with landholders, land improvement groups and local government to reduce weeds and pests to boost farm productivity.
“The LNP will achieve weed and seed management through coordinated spraying programs and more weed wash down facilities.
“The priority weeds include prickly acacia in drought areas, where the trees compete for water against pasture.”
Mr Nicholls said the LNP would also provide up to $2 million over four years to provide a $500 rebate for fitting approved safety devices on quad bikes.
“The rebate will be available for primary producers who purchase a new vehicle with appropriate roll over bars and crush protection devices or upon installation of roll bars and crush protection devices on existing quad bikes,” he said.
“The LNP will back Queensland farmers every day of the week, unlike Annastacia Palaszczuk.”
Member for Nanango, Deb Frecklington, has congratulated Federal Maranoa MP, David Littlerpoud who, after nearly a decade-long community fight, has secured a new postcode for Blackbutt, answering the region’s calls for Australia Post to finally recognise that South Burnett and Ipswich – 130km away – have nothing in common.
“In a postcode quirk the Blackbutt region – perched atop of the Great Diving Range – shared the same 4306 postcode as near Ipswich, a city on the fringe of Brisbane, resulting in detrimental outcomes for this rural area but today we’ve secured a new four-digit identity for this South Burnett region,” Mr Littleproud said.
“I’ve had many discussions with Australia Post on this issue affecting the Blackbutt region and, in a massive win for this community, today they’ve advised me it will change the area’s postcode from 4306 to 4314.
“When I was elected in September last year, one of the first phone calls I received as the new Maranoa MP was from Blackbutt residents who’d been campaigning for years for a new postcode and today I’m proud to deliver them a win.
“Australia Post has advised me it will notify residents, before the year’s out, of the postcode change and – it has assured me – the community will have ample time to prepare accordingly.”
The new 4314 postcode will be effective from February 1, 2018 however Australia Post will continue to recognise and deliver mail addressed to 4306 until June 30, 2019.
The rural Blackbutt region and the Ipswich area are two separate localities but share the same 4306 postcode, along with about 56 other areas. As Ipswich-Amberley 4306 is described as a metropolitan region and the South Burnett is rural, this postcode resulted in a diverse and significant range of detrimental outcomes for the Blackbutt region.
“For Australia Post, the issue is all about mail delivery efficiency and I’m glad we’ve persuaded Australia Post to finally give this South Burnett gem a new mailing identity,” Mr Littleproud said.
“I’ve been in constant contact with the community on this and mail delivery delays were definitely an issue but Blackbutt was often tarred with metropolitan woes in relation to crime data – used to calculate insurance premiums.
“South Burnett producers often employ backpackers as an important part of their seasonal workforce but in another 4306 consequence, this region wasn’t recognised as rural.
“As part of the working holiday visa, backpackers can extend their visa by working on a rural farm but when farmers tried to extend the backpackers’ visa to continue working on their property, they experienced difficulties because 4306 is recognised as a metropolitan code, not rural.”
“Quite frankly, this inequity was a joke and I’m glad Australia Post has listened to this community and we’ve been successful in getting this region’s postcode changed.”
FACT BOX:
LNP Nanango MP Deb Frecklington says a future LNP Government’s commitment to the entire Nanango Electorate totals $34,750,000 million.
Mrs Frecklington says if the LNP is elected to Government, the following projects will receive funding:
“On top of this, there is also $35 million to rebuild and realign the Boyne River Bridge on the Mundubbera-Durong Rd, and our commitment to deliver the brand new $62 million Kingaroy Hospital.
“And for the Somerset region, there is a $2 million commitment to rebuild Lowood Police Station and $1 million to support Lockyer irrigators develop a business case for a water pipeline to increase water security.
“This is a huge commitment to the people of the Nanango Electorate and if the LNP forms Government after this election, I will be so pleased to see these vital projects delivered,” Deb said.
Mrs Frecklington said Queenslanders could not afford another three years of Labor which have ignored the needs of regional Queenslanders over the past three years.
“A vote for anyone other than the LNP will see a return of a do-nothing Labor Government which has the wrong priorities and has taken the people of the Nanango Electorate for granted,” she said.
“These projects are part of the LNP’s plan to Build a Better Queensland by building a better regional Queensland.”
LNP Nanango MP Deb Frecklington says a future LNP Government will pledge $50,000 to the Kingaroy Hospital Emergency Department for much-needed equipment.
Mrs Frecklington said first and foremost the funding would purchase a portable ultrasound machine for the Emergency Department team.
“Our Emergency Department team at the Kingaroy Hospital do an amazing job under very difficult, cramped conditions,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“The portable ultrasound machine they are currently using is old and dated. They need a new machine urgently.
“This is a piece of equipment which is used on a daily basis to help doctors quickly assess and diagnose what has happened to patients needing emergency treatment.
“It helps them look at bones, organs, evaluate early pregnancies and gain access to the blood supply.
“We need a new portable ultrasound machine at the Kingaroy Hospital and if the LNP is elected to Government, I will ensure this happens straight away,” Deb said.
Mrs Frecklington said Queenslanders could not afford another three years of Labor which has ignored the needs of regional Queenslanders over the past three years.
“A vote for anyone other than the LNP will see a return of a do-nothing Labor Government which has the wrong priorities and has taken the people of the Nanango Electorate for granted,” she said.
“This project is part of the LNP’s plan to improve health outcomes in regional Queensland.”
LNP Nanango MP Deb Frecklington says a future LNP Government will commit $400,000 to establish a ‘South Burnett Clubhouse’ to help people with mental illness reconnect with the community.
Mrs Frecklington said it has been one of her major goals to secure better mental health services for people in regional areas.
“It has been a passion of mine to bring better support to regional and rural areas for people who suffer mental illness. The proposed ‘South Burnett Clubhouse’ offers a model of care which has a proven track record, providing intervention services that assists people who experience mental health problems,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“This project will be similar to the current, and very successful, Toowoomba Clubhouse which provides people with mental illness vocational training and work experiences, helping them connect with treatment, rehabilitation and re-establishment in the working community,” she said.
“This is a project I wanted to deliver at the last election, however, the project wasn’t supported by the Palaszczuk Labor Government.
“If the LNP is elected to Government, I will be proud to deliver this much needed model of mental health care for the people of the South Burnett,” Deb said.
“We’ve seen a decade of floods and drought and this has certainly tested the resolve of our primary producers. The South Burnett Clubhouse will provide an invaluable service to help people who need that extra bit of support to help get them through the hard times,”
Mrs Frecklington said Queenslanders could not afford another three years of Labor which have ignored the needs of regional Queenslanders over the past three years.
“A vote for anyone other than the LNP will see a return of a do-nothing Labor Government which has the wrong priorities and has taken the people of the Nanango Electorate for granted,” she said.
“These projects are part of the LNP’s plan to Build a Better Queensland by building a better regional Queensland.”
A Tim Nicholls-led LNP Government will Get Country Racing Back on Track after three years of savage cuts and neglect under Annastacia Palaszczuk.
LNP Leader Tim Nicholls said cornerstones of the Get Country Racing Back on Track commitment would be a boost to prize money, greater local support and a new $15 million dedicated infrastructure fund.
“We will restore Annastacia Palaszczuk’s savage racing cuts and revitalise the economic and social fabric of Regional Queensland communities across the state,” Mr Nicholls said.
“We will make country racing sustainable with an additional $16.5 million for more local support and increased prize money.
“The LNP will also establish a dedicated $15 million capital works fund to support smaller rural and regional clubs that need minor and major infrastructure upgrades.
“This is our plan to provide a guaranteed funding commitment of $72.9 million over the next four years, ensuring long-term funding certainty for country racing events.”
LNP Shadow Racing Minister Jon Krause said part of the plan to Get Country Racing Back on Track would centre on long term sustainability and greater participation from grass roots participants.
“It’s only the LNP that can be trusted to get country racing back on track,” Mr Krause said.
“We understand the value of country racing and what it means to regional communities.
“We will also ensure Queensland has a minimum bet limit to level the playing field for punters and country bookies.
“Cuts to prizemoney like those seen under Annastacia Palaszczuk aren’t sustainable for an industry which keeps regional towns ticking and provides a social and economic boost to these areas.”
Read the Policy - www.betterqueensland.org.au/getting-country-racing-back-on-track
LNP Candidate for Lockyer Jim McDonald has announced that the LNP will upgrade the Lowood Police Station with a $2 million investment in community safety.
Mr McDonald said this important local facility for the Lowood community would service many of the surrounding areas and allow growth in police numbers to occur, in what is currently unacceptable.
“We strongly support our dedicated police officers, and believe the facilities and equipment they rely upon should be maintained to the highest standards,” Mr McDonald said.
“Only the LNP will better support Queensland Police and their efforts to keep Queensland families safe by building a Better Queensland.
“The new police station is all a part of our plan to Build a Better Queensland by building better facilities for our police officers.”
LNP Deputy Leader Deb Frecklington said the only way this project would happen is by voting for Jim McDonald.
“Queenslanders need to ask themselves if they csn afford another Labor Government which has chosen to ignore the people of Lowood,” Ms Frecklington said.
“A vote for anyone other than the LNP’s Jim McDonald will see a return of a do-nothing Labor Government which has the wrong priorities and has taken the people of the Lockyer region for granted.”
LNP Nanango MP Deb Frecklington says a future LNP Government will invest an initial $1.1 million towards sealing the remaining gravel section of the Maidenwell-Bunya Mountains Road.
Mrs Frecklington said the Maidenwell-Bunya Mountains Road is the main connector to the popular Bunya Mountains, yet it remains a dangerous, unsealed road.
“I have been fighting to have this road fixed for many years. Following the recent fatality on the Maidenwell-Bunya Mountains Road, I wrote to the Minister for Main Roads seeking urgent consideration of funding to seal the final sections,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“The response I received offered absolutely no assistance, and demonstrated no understanding of the importance of this road, not only to tourism, but to the locals who live with this near misses on this road each and every day.
“My initial commitment of $1.1 million demonstrates the LNP’s commitment to fixing the Maidenwell-Bunya Mountains Road.
“Labor have neglected our regions for far too long and taken Regional Queenslanders for granted.
“I am proud to be part of a team that will ensure Regional Queenslanders no longer miss out on its fair share.”
LNP Nanango MP Deb Frecklington says a future LNP Government will invest $2.5 million to fix the single-lane southern section of Byee Road at Wheatlands in the South Burnett.
Mrs Frecklington said the community have been calling for the dangerous single-lane road to be widened to two lanes for many years.
“Byee Road is a connecting road between the South, Central and North Burnett areas and it desperately needs to be upgraded,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“Wheatlands School is located on Byee Road and school buses travel this route each day.
“This is the type of road that the Palaszczuk-Labor Government wouldn’t have a clue about. But for our community, and for those who use the road to travel north and south, it’s a key transport corridor.
“In its current state it is dangerous and needs to be widened to two lanes. If elected, the LNP’s investment of $2.5 million will fix the southern section from Wheatlands School to the intersection with the Wondai-Proston Road.
“Labor have neglected our regions for far too long and taken Regional Queenslanders for granted.
“I am proud to be part of a team that will ensure Regional Queensland no longer miss out on its fair share.”
Photo: Deb at Byee Road
LNP Nanango MP Deb Frecklington says a future LNP Government will secure the use of the Mill Street Forestry Shed for the Yarraman Men’s Shed.
Mrs Frecklington said she is determined to ensure the old DAF Forestry Shed is not demolished.
“Earlier this year I wrote to the Palaszczuk Labor Government calling on them not to demolish this perfectly good piece of infrastructure, and to instead make it available for the members of the Yarraman Men’s Shed,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“It seems crazy that the Government would spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to tear down a perfectly good building, when they could buy much more suitable land elsewhere in Yarraman.
“I’ll be fighting to ensure the old DAF forestry shed in Yarraman is retained and members of this busy and dedicated group can get in there and get started.
“I have been working with the Yarraman Men’s Shed for several months now on this issue, and I am keen to show my support and the support of a future LNP Government for their plans.
“The Shed has laid dormant for so long. It just makes sense to make it available for a community group.”
Photo: Deb discussed her pledge with members of the Yarraman Men’s Shed
A Tim Nicholls-led LNP Government will introduce a suite of reforms to ease cost of living pressures on Queensland seniors.
LNP Leader Tim Nicholls said the cost of renewing a driver’s licence would be halved for Queenslanders with a Seniors Card.
“Currently, holders of a Queensland Seniors Card are not eligible for any concessions on driver’s licence fees,” Mr Nicholls said.
“Our discount will see driver’s licence fees range from $36 to $82 as opposed to the existing fees under Annastacia Palaszczuk which could cost up to $165.
“Combined with our commitment to freeze family car registration fees in the next term of government, Queensland seniors will be much better off under the LNP.
“The cost of living keeps rising and Labor has no plan to offer Queenslanders any relief.”
LNP Shadow Seniors Minister Ros Bates said the LNP would also make off-peak bus and rail travel free for senior go card holders.
“This will mean that many of the 20 million public transport trips seniors make each year will be free,” Ms Bates said.
“Under our plan, seniors could save around $720 in public transport costs a year which will go a long way to easing cost of living pressures that have skyrocketed under Annastacia Palaszczuk.
“The free off-peak travel will be valid on Queensland Rail, Translink, buses and G:link services.”
Ms Bates said the LNP understood increases in the cost of living made it hard for Queenslanders to make ends meet – especially those on fixed incomes such as seniors and aged pensioners.
“Annastacia Palaszczuk has no plan to tackle the cost of living issues facing Queenslanders, instead she continues to use everyone as cash cows,” Ms Bates said.
“In recent years the cost of public transport has risen dramatically.
“When Annastacia Palaszczuk was Transport Minister in the Bligh Labor Government, bus and train fares went up 15 per cent year after year to a total of 45 per cent.
“The LNP has a proven track record of looking after our senior citizens and reducing cost of living pressures for them.
“The LNP team has been listening and understands something must be done and we will act on reducing the cost of living pressure for Queenslanders.
“We certainly will not use Queenslanders as cash cows like Annastacia Palaszczuk has done for the past three years.”
Volunteers, friends, relatives and even a Senator were on hand to help officially launch Deb Frecklington’s 2017 State election campaign.
Mrs Frecklington said it was a great opportunity to thank everyone who has offered to support her campaign.
“I have a terrific team of people who’ve offered to help during the next few weeks and I really wanted to take the chance to say thank-you.
“I really appreciate Senator McGrath taking the time to travel to Kingaroy and be a part of the launch. It was a real boost for everyone in my team, including myself.
“It will be a busy final two weeks of the election, but I’m looking forward to voting day on 25th November.
“It is my priority to fight to make sure our regional communities get their fair share and I’ll continue to do this if I’m given the opportunity by the Electorate.
“The LNP has a plan to Build a Better Queensland, by building a better Nanango Electorate,” Deb said.
Photo: Senator James McGrath, along with his niece, Josephine, helped to launch Deb's campaign on Saturday.
A Tim Nicholls-led LNP Government will implement a comprehensive $52.21 million action plan to take ICE off our streets.
The LNP’s plan is about better treatment, more policing resources, better public awareness and targeted prevention.
LNP Leader Tim Nicholls said the comprehensive plan would include $31.71 million for four new treatment centres across Regional Queensland.
“Part of the LNP’s comprehensive plan to tackle this evil drug is to open four new drug and alcohol rehabilitation centres in Cairns, Wide Bay, Toowoomba and Caloundra,” Mr Nicholls said.
“We will also invest $2 million towards establishing a dedicated treatment team to provide additional addiction services in remote indigenous communities.
“The LNP will also launch an $8 million police ICE taskforce and work with federal agencies to restrict supply through joint enforcement operations including targeting organised crime manufacturing and distribution.”
Mr Nicholls said the Palaszczuk Labor Government signed up to the National ICE Action Plan nearly two years ago but hadn’t even finished the draft.
“Labor still have no plan to tackle ICE in our communities,” he said.
“While Annastacia Palaszczuk does nothing, ICE continues to damage towns like Roma, St George, Maryborough and Bundaberg. Little wonder the Warrego and Bruce are known as the ICE highways.
“This is typical of a do-nothing Labor government with a softly, softly approach that is failing Queenslanders.
“Drug and violent crimes are increasing across the state and Annastacia Palaszczuk’s only solution is to hold a couple of talkfests.”
The LNP will deliver an innovative $6 million package for broad industry R&D and to establish a dedicated Farm Forestry Centre to expand private farm forestry to better support the state’s forest and timber industries.
LNP Shadow Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Minister Dale Last said the LNP recognised the value and potential of the state’s forest and timber industries.
“Unlike Labor, the LNP values of our forest and timber industries for the wealth they generate and the tens of thousands of jobs they support,” Mr Last said.
“In government, the LNP worked closely with industry on the Timber Plan and made common sense decisions on native hardwood and native softwood access.
“Labor dumped reference to ‘Forestry’ in the portfolio title – hardly fair for a sector worth $3 billion a year to our economy and that underpins more than 25,000 direct and indirect jobs, particularly in Regional Queensland.”
Mr Last said the LNP would build on the Timber Industry Plan and provide $2 million to support extension of both the softwood and hardwood forestry sectors which are vital to our regions.
“The LNP will also invest up to $4 million for a Queensland Farm Forestry Centre to support increased private native (hardwood) forest production with tree planting for integrating with beef and livestock production.
“We will also return Forestry to the Department’s title to ensure industry had a strong voice.
“Unlike Labor, who are beholden to inner-city Green groups, the LNP wants to expand our forest and timber industries.
“We want to improve the timber industry’s supply chain, from growing and harvesting to transport logistics, log processing, advanced timber and engineered wood products to wholesale and retail sales.”
LNP Gympie Member Tony Perrett, addressing the Private Native Forest Industry Forum today, announced the Farm Forestry Centre would be based in Gympie.
“Gympie and many other regional centres will benefit from this initiative,” Mr Perrett said.
“This is about putting Queensland on the map for sustainable, private farm forestry.
“Under the LNP, our forest and timber businesses and their thousands of employees will have a strong voice at the Cabinet table – someone who understands and appreciates their contribution, and will stand up for their interests.
“LNP sees a very bright future for our timber and forestry industries from expanding private forestry through harvesting, processing, value-adding and the emerging science of timber engineering – which is really putting sustainable, carbon-neutral into building and construction.
“I call on the Greens to support this initiative.
“This is about local and regional sustainable jobs in an industry that’s vital to centres from Caboolture to Gympie to Maryborough and Wide Bay Burnett, through to Mareeba and Cape York in the Far North, and Dalby and Injune in the south west and Theodore and Wandoan in Central Queensland.
“The Greens need to be a fair dinkum and get behind this initiative to boost research capacity for forestry and wood science technology.
“This is about making a Queensland a national centre for farm forestry and sustainable, low carbon and renewable building materials which can deliver real environmental benefits and long-term jobs for regional Queensland.
“Regional Queensland will have an LNP Government that understands and supports our forest industries – a government that will work to expand private forestry to secure timber resources for future generations.”
LNP Nanango MP Deb Frecklington says claims by Main Roads Minister, Mark Bailey and Labor Candidate for Nanango, Ben Rankin, that works on the Boyne River Bridge were underway were clueless.
Mrs Frecklington said there was no money in Labor’s budget to build a new Boyne River Bridge.
“This is typical of a Labor Government. They really have no idea when it comes to regional infrastructure and regional road networks,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“There has been no announcement of funding by Labor for the Boyne River Bridge, or funding to widen the single-lane section of the Mundubbera-Durong Road.
“In fact, there is not a single cent in the Queensland Transport Wide Bay/Burnett State Network Investment Program (QTRIP) over the next three years for the entire North Burnett Region.**
“That to me says there won’t be a new Boyne River Bridge under a Labor Government for a very long time.
“I have viewed correspondence direct from TMR which states there is no funding for the Mundubbera-Durong road – absolutely none. It is obvious this important network is a not a priority for a Palaszczuk Government, Deb said.
“Under a future LNP Government, we’ll make it a priority to get both the Boyne River Bridge and the 11km single-lane stretch of the Mundubbera-Durong Road fixed.
Photo: Announcing the funding for the Boyne River Bridge this week with LNP Candidate for Callide, Colin Boyce.
**See QTRIP (Wide Bay Region) document - https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/About-us/Corporate-information/Publications/Queensland-Transport-and-Roads-Investment-Program.aspx
The Liberal National Party has pledged $1 million to help Lockyer Valley irrigators make an application to the National Water Infrastructure Development Fund to deliver a much-needed water pipeline.
LNP Leader Tim Nicholls said today water security was an important issue in the Lockyer Valley for farmers and irrigators.
“The LNP is committed to solving local problems with local solutions,” Mr Nicholls said.
“Lockyer Valley candidate Jim McDonald has been relentless on this issue because he know the importance of water security to his community.
“The LNP also knows that investing in local projects creates local jobs.”
LNP Lockyer Valley candidate Jim McDonald said the $1 million commitment would be a huge boost to local farmers with their application for federal funding.
“A water pipeline in the Valley will ensure we secure our water future,” Mr McDonald said.
“Tim met with irrigators twice in the past year and he has put his money where his mouth is instead of just paying them lip service, like One Nation and Labor.
“This contribution will go a long way to ensuring we get our application for federal funding spot on.”
Mr McDonald said he was proud to be part of a team that would deliver real outcomes for the Lockyer Valley.
“You have minor party candidates running around the region promising this and promising that but they have absolutely no way of actually delivering,” he said.
“Only the LNP can be trusted to deliver better water infrastructure for Regional Queensland.”
LNP Nanango MP Deb Frecklington has announced that an LNP Government will invest $4.5 million to widen and seal single-lane sections of the Kilkivan-Tansey Road
Mrs Frecklington said the funding for Kilkivan-Tansey Road is a key investment for the region and one which the community has been calling on for a long time.
“The Kilkivan-Tansey Road is a major connecting road between the Central/North Burnett and the coast,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“We must improve safety on this road, and upgrade it to become a realistic option for transport companies and primary producers who need to move stock and products. In its current state, it’s just too dangerous.
“This commitment by the LNP is part of our $60 million Beef Roads Program, which will see major upgrades to 10 regional road infrastructure projects across the state.
Mrs Frecklington said the LNP’s Buy Local policy would ensure local contractors and businesses which wanted to submit a tender to construct these projects did so with the confidence they were competing on a level playing field.
“Labor has failed to support Queensland small businesses, with countless examples of government contracts being awarded to interstate and overseas companies,” she said.
“Our comprehensive Buy Local policy would apply to our Beef Roads Program and we make no apologies for putting local businesses, contractors and jobs first.
“Labor have neglected our regions for far too long and taken Regional Queenslanders for granted.
“I am proud to be part of a team that will ensure Regional Queensland no longer miss out on its fair share.”
BEEF ROAD PROJECTS:
A Tim Nicholls-led LNP Government will invest $80 million to improve and upgrade key bridges across Regional Queensland.
LNP Deputy Leader and Shadow Infrastructure Minister Deb Frecklington said the $80 million Better Bridges Program would invest in 11 much-needed bridge upgrade projects across the state.
She said the Better Bridges Program was just one of the features of the LNP’s comprehensive State Infrastructure Plan.
“Labor isn’t interested in investing in regional infrastructure and they are certainly not interested in investing in the bridge projects our state needs,” Ms Frecklington said.
“This program will include replacing timber bridges, safety works on existing bridges, improved signage for motorists and capacity upgrades to increase bridge load limits.
“This investment will also see much-needed safety upgrades across the 11 projects to decrease the risk of serious and fatal crashes on bridges, especially older, single-lane bridges.”
Ms Frecklington said these 11 projects would also create much-needed local jobs and stimulate regional communities across the Sunshine Coast, Lockyer Valley, Western Queensland, Central Queensland and North Queensland.
“Regional Queensland residents have suffered from a lack of new infrastructure projects for too long under Annastacia Palaszczuk,” she said.
“Alarmingly, there is a jobs crisis in Regional Queensland with the unemployment rate in some parts of the state nudging 60 per cent.
“Enough is enough – only the LNP can be trusted to build the bridges Queensland needs.”
Ms Frecklington said the LNP’s Buy Local policy would ensure local contractors and businesses which wanted to submit a tender to construct these projects did so with the confidence they were competing on a level playing field.
“Labor has failed to support Queensland small businesses, with countless examples of government contracts being awarded to interstate and overseas companies,” she said.
“Our comprehensive Buy Local policy would apply to our Better Bridges Program and we make no apologies for putting local businesses, contractors and jobs first.
“Labor has neglected our regions for far too long and taken Regional Queenslanders for granted.
“I am proud to be part of a team that will ensure Regional Queensland no longer misses out on its fair share.”
BETTER BRIDGES PROGRAM:
Photo: With Member for Gympie, Tony Perrett at Coondoo Creek Bridge north of Gympie.
LNP Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington has announced that an LNP Government will make an initial investment of $1.1 million to improve sections of the Brisbane Valley Highway.
Mrs Frecklington said Labor was not interested in investing in regional infrastructure and certainly not interested in investing in the roads, bridges and dams our state needed.
“Nanango residents have suffered from a lack of new infrastructure projects for too long under Annastacia Palaszczuk. Especially those who need to travel regularly on the Brisbane Valley Highway,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“Under our former LNP Government, I secured funding for a new overtaking lane north of Toogoolawah, and in conjunction with then Ipswich West Member, Sean Choat, funding was
secured to upgrade a 2km stretch from Lloyds Road to the southern branch of Sandy Creek at Wanora, but since then, the Labor Government has ignored the Somerset region.
“Enough is enough – an LNP Government will invest $1.1 million to upgrade key sections of the Brisbane Valley Highway.
“We all know the Brisbane Valley Highway is important network road connecting regional areas to Brisbane, but it is in desperate need of a funding injection.
“By delivering this project, not only will we improve the roads Queenslanders need but we will create local jobs in the process.
“Instead of sitting around talking about building infrastructure like Annastacia Palaszczuk, the LNP has put its money where its mouth is and will actually deliver the roads, bridges and dams we need.”
Mrs Frecklington said a vote for anyone other than the LNP will see a return of a do-nothing Labor Government which has the wrong priorities and has taken the people of Nanango for granted.
“Upgrading Brisbane Valley Highway is all part of our Royalties for Regions program and our plan to Build a Better Queensland by Building a Better Nanango Electorate,” she said.
A Tim Nicholls-led LNP Government will invest $60 million to improve and upgrade key economic road links in Regional Queensland.
LNP Deputy Leader and Shadow Infrastructure Minister Deb Frecklington said the Beef Roads Program would invest in 10 much-needed regional road infrastructure projects across the state.
She said the $60 million Beef Roads Program was a key component of the LNP’s comprehensive State Infrastructure Plan.
“Labor aren’t interested in investing in regional infrastructure and they are certainly not interested in investing in the roads, bridges and dams our state needs,” Ms Frecklington said.
“These 10 projects will ensure the growth of our state’s livestock and agricultural industries and facilitate the movement of cattle to ports and processing facilities.
“By beefing up our beef roads we will unlock new road freight routes for higher productivity vehicles as well as improving safety, flood and disaster resilience.”
Ms Frecklington said these 10 projects would also create much-needed local jobs and stimulate regional communities in areas such as Mundubbera, Bowenville, Oakey, Pittsworth, Middlemount and Kilkivan.
“Regional Queensland residents have suffered from a lack of new infrastructure projects for too long under Annastacia Palaszczuk,” she said.
“Alarmingly, there is a jobs crisis in Regional Queensland with the unemployment rate in some parts of the state nudging 60 per cent.
“Enough is enough – only the LNP can be trusted to build the roads, bridges and dams Queensland needs.”
Ms Frecklington said the LNP’s Buy Local policy would ensure local contractors and businesses which wanted to submit a tender to construct these projects did so with the confidence they were competing on a level playing field.
“Labor has failed to support Queensland small businesses, with countless examples of government contracts being awarded to interstate and overseas companies,” she said.
“Our comprehensive Buy Local policy would apply to our Beef Roads Program and we make no apologies for putting local businesses, contractors and jobs first.
“Labor have neglected our regions for far too long and taken Regional Queenslanders for granted.
“I am proud to be part of a team that will ensure Regional Queensland no longer miss out on its fair share.”
BEEF ROAD PROJECTS:
Photo: On the Mundubbera-Durong road with Cr Kathy Duff.
LNP Candidate for Callide Colin Boyce has announced that an LNP Government will invest $35 million in vital safety upgrades for Boyne River Bridge.
Mr Boyce said Labor weren’t interested in investing in regional infrastructure and they are certainly not interested in investing in the bridge projects our state needs.
“Regional Queensland residents have suffered from a lack of new infrastructure projects for too long under Annastacia Palaszczuk,” Mr Boyce said.
“Enough is enough – only the LNP can be trusted to build the bridges Queensland needs.
“This is why an LNP Government will invest $35 million upgrading Boyne River Bridge.”
“Instead of sitting around talking about building infrastructure like Annastacia Palaszczuk, the LNP has put its money where its mouth is and will actually deliver the roads, bridges and dams we need,” Ms Frecklington said.
“A vote for anyone other than the LNP will see a return of a do-nothing Labor Government which has the wrong priorities and has taken the people of Callide for granted and not delivered.
“The Boyne River Bridge upgrade is all part of our plan to Build a Better Queensland by building a better Callide.”
LNP Nanango MP Deb Frecklington has announced that an LNP Government will invest $15 million to widen and seal the single-lane section of the Mundubbera-Durong Road.
Mrs Frecklington said the commitment to the Mundubbera-Durong Road is a key investment for the region and one which has been needed for many, many years
“With the realignment of the whole South Burnett region into the Nanango Electorate, one of the main pieces of feedback I received was that the Mundubbera-Durong Road needed to be upgraded.
“It’s important for the economic prosperity of the region, in particular for primary producers and transport companies.
“I would also like to thank Cr Kathy Duff for her determination to get this road recognised. She has been working for about 13 years to highlight the importance of Mundubbera-Durong Road and the need for funding.
“I personally inspected the 11km single land section just south of the North Burnett-South Burnett boundary and it is obvious this section must be fixed.
“To complete the package, the LNP will also deliver the new $35 million Boyne River Bridge which will improve safety and make it more flood resilient.
Mrs Frecklington said Queenslanders could not afford another three years of Labor which have cut billions of dollars from infrastructure spending over the past three years.
“A vote for anyone other than the LNP will see a return of a do-nothing Labor Government which has the wrong priorities and has taken the people of Callide and Nanango for granted,” she said.
“The Mundubbera-Durong Road upgrade is all part of our plan to Build a Better Queensland by building a better regional Queensland.”
A Tim Nicholls-led LNP Government will tackle the cost of living by delivering cheaper electricity.
LNP Leader Tim Nicholls said he would undertake major economic reforms to end Labor’s secret tax on electricity.
“We are taking action on every component of the household electricity bill – something that Annastacia Palaszczuk and Labor have failed to do,” Mr Nicholls said.
“The LNP’s energy plan will save a typical Queensland family an average of $160 each year for the next two years.
“This is not a one-off sugar hit like Annastacia Palaszczuk’s paltry 96 cents per week offering.
“After 2020 the savings will increase by an average $300 per year by stopping the subsidies for renewable energy.
“This will mean a typical Queensland family will be $460 a year on average better off under the LNP than Labor.
“These reforms will not only deliver cheaper electricity for households but business, farmers and industry as well.”
Mr Nicholls said the LNP would provide cheaper electricity for families, businesses and industry by writing down the regulated asset base of Energy Queensland by $2 billion.
“This is about stripping out Labor’s gold-plating to lower network costs to deliver cost of living relief for Queensland families,” he said.
“This measure will save a four-person household an average of $110 a year over the initial years and will continue to deliver savings until 2032.”
Mr Nicholls said another key aspect of the LNP’s comprehensive electricity reforms would include the restructure of government-owned generators back into three entities.
“Currently, Queensland has the least competition of any of the major states,” he said.
“Taking this action will increase competition in the energy generation market, which will drive down wholesale electricity costs by 8.3 per cent.*
“Labor merged the generators from three to two in 2011 and since then Queensland’s wholesale electricity price has been higher than New South Wales and Victoria.
“ACCC Chairman Rod Sims has slammed the lack of competition in Queensland’s wholesale electricity market.
“It is another example of the cost of a do-nothing Labor Government that has unashamedly used Queenslanders like cash cows.
“Unlike Labor, which uses electricity as a tax, we’re prepared to reduce returns at the government-owned energy businesses – because we can’t afford not to act on record high power prices.
“Our plan will cost $645 million over the next three years, but an economy can’t grow if it is weighed down by high electricity costs.
“The LNP has listened to Queensland families who are struggling with increasing cost of living pressures.
“Our energy plan, along with other policies such as our family car rego freeze, will make a real difference to your household budget.
“Make no mistake, I am determined to ease cost of living pressures for all Queenslanders, and I will never use them as cash cows – unlike Annastacia Palaszczuk.”
*As modelled by ACIL Allen for the Queensland Productivity Commission.
