Carbon Tax
The Federal Parliament is now debating Labor’s proposed carbon tax.  Eighteen different pieces of legislation are needed to put the tax into effect and they were introduced into the Parliament recently.
The carbon tax will hit every sector of our economy.  It will impact on all Australians with everything we buy costing us more.  The cost increases to family budgets will rise every year.  The Coalition will oppose the imposition of a tax that will cost our country dearly and provide no environmental benefits.
Dickson Seniors’ Expo
Another successful expo was held to celebrate Seniors Week and I would like to thank the Dickson Seniors Council for their ongoing efforts in putting together an informative and interesting program.  We held the fashion parade over both days this year as well as the addition of a cooking demonstration to the program which proved to be a great hit.  Not for profit organisations and businesses do need to get in early if they would like to secure a place at next year’s expo so please don’t hesitate to contact my office to express your interest.
National Meals on Wheels Day
We recently celebrated National Meals on Wheels Day and we cannot thank enough our local volunteers who help provide Meals on Wheels to people with disability and the aged.  The dedication of these volunteers helps to improve the lives of many people with disability, their carers and families.  Their work deserves to be commended and recognised.  The delivery of nutritious meals directly to a person’s door is an important part of assisting people to continue living at home, while the social interaction and regular visits help ease the social isolation some Australians experience.  If you’re able to contribute or would like more information, call 3205 5588 or visit www.mealsonwheels.org.au .
Mental Health Week
Mental Health week is a National event and this year runs from 9-15 October.  During Mental Health week beyondblue will be encouraging everyone – individuals, community groups and workplaces – to help raise awareness of depression and anxiety and reduce the associated stigma.  For ideas and resources on how you can help raise awareness go to www.beyondblue.org.au  or beyondblue info line on 1300 224 636.  For personal help and advice the following numbers may be of assistance.
Lifeline - 13 11 14
Kids Help Line (free call) - 1800 55 1800
Mensline - 1300 789 978
Carers Week
Carers week runs from 16 – 22 October and aims to recognise, support and celebrate Australian carers.  Carers Australia is the peak body representing carers in Australia.  To order carers week products or to find out more about carers and carer issues go to www.carersaustralia.com.au or contact the carer advisory and counselling service on 1800 242 636.
Free tax help for low income earners
With tax time upon us, local low income earners will again be able to access free help with their tax returns at my office.  A volunteer tax helper will assist residents to work through the process of preparing and lodging their tax return.
Tax Help is available to anyone who is classified as a low income earner, which for individuals, is a person who earns less than $50,000.
To make an appointment please contact my office on 3205 9977.  All tax returns must be lodged by October 31.
Christmas Card Competition
It is hard to believe that another school term is behind us.  My Christmas card competition will be delivered to schools in term four and I look forward to receiving entries.  It is always a challenge to choose the final winners from a very talented pool of artists.  I wish staff, teachers and students a great final term for 2011.