Archived News for Professionals in State Government - August, 2011
The Queensland State Government has pledged to half the amount of landfill currently being produced while generating ‘thousands of green jobs’ through investing in recycling and resource recovery.
State Environment Minister Vicky Darling introduced the new Waste Reduction and Recycling Bill to Parliament, describing as key to the State Government’s plan to halve the amount of waste going to landfill by 2020.
“Queensland generates about 32 million tonnes of waste every year - and we also have one of the worst recycling rates in the nation,” Ms Darling said.
Tasmanian Government details health spending cuts
The Tasmanian Minister for Health, Michelle O’Byrne has outlined a number of spending cuts to the state’s health sector, following the recent state budget that called for over $100 million to be pulled from state’s health system.
NSW Committee appointed to develop Health and Medical Research Strategy
The NSW Government has appointed a Health and Medical Research Strategic Review Committee to develop a 10-year plan for medical research in the state.
Reform paper outlines state tax changes
The Federal Government has released its first discussion paper for its planned tax reform, described the move as the first step in ‘an ambitious tax reform agenda’.
SA leadership spill looms
The South Australian Legislative Council Bob Sneath has said that there might be enough support in the Labour Party to push through a leadership spill that would see Premier Mike Rann removed from power.
High-speed rail study released
The Federal Government has released its feasibility study into the development of a high-speed rail network to connect eastern seaboard cities, finding that such a network could transport passengers from Sydney to Brisbane in under 3 hours for an estimated $75.
Queensland announces $45 million package for Council infrastructure
The Queensland Government has announced a new $45 million pool of funding to provide essential infrastructure works.
WA digs heals in over tax reform
The Western Australian Government has reiterated its opposition to the planned Minerals Resource Rent Tax and Carbon Tax with the State Treasurer Christian Porter expressing his disappointment over the Federal Government’s refusal to discuss the taxes in the October Tax forum.
NSW Environmental Restoration and Rehabilitation Program - Applications Open
The NSW Environmental Trust invites applications to its
Environmental Restoration and Rehabilitation Program
Grants of $5,000 to $100,000 available to:
Community organisations and non-profit associations (total program $2 million)
State and local government organisations (total program $2 million)
Applications close on 2 September, 2011
Application Forms
Guidelines, application forms and more information is available on the Trust website:
www.environmentaltrust.nsw.gov.au or by phoning the Trust on (02) 8837 6093.
Victoria announces sustainability funding recipients
The Victorian Minister for Environment and Climate Change Ryan Smith has announced the recipients of the government's $5.67 million Local Sustainability Accord grants program.