“The State Budget has once again been handed down and while I do welcome some commitments, overall, it’s extremely concerning.
For seven years the Palaszczuk Government has destroyed the health system, now they’re asking for another seven years to fix it.
They want to talk about a record health budget, but their record on health is appalling.
The announcement of $1.2B for a new Bundaberg Hospital is extremely deceitful.
In truth, there’s only $20M for ‘early works’ in this budget.
We are sick and tired of the smoke and mirrors.
The lack of investment in a hospital we were promised during an election two years ago, clearly indicates we’re on a ‘go-slow’ construction plan; the evidence is in the money.
Our chance of getting a new hospital any time soon has been dashed, let alone the Level 5 hospital we were promised.
There is also no investment in the health sector for our communities around the Discovery Coast or Isis District.
I am beyond disappointed.
I am extremely concerned about the lack of commitment for Paradise Dam.
We were promised $600M, instead there is only $30.1M for planning and early works.
We cannot afford to see a ‘go-slow’, ten-year construction period for Paradise Dam.
Paradise is the lifeblood of our region and I fear we won’t see if rebuilt for many years to come.
Our biggest fears have been realised; there’s no real investment in health, roads, water infrastructure and housing across Bundaberg and the Burnett in the 2022/23 State Budget.
Unfortunately we now know our small businesses will pay.
The Treasurer promised 26 times there would be no new or increased taxes.
Today he has broken that promise and his integrity lies in tatters with three new taxes attacking businesses.
Sadly, we didn’t see any real attention to detail about rising electricity prices and the cost of living.
This is a budget of broken promises from a government we can no longer trust.”
21/06/22