A NATIONAL PAID MATERNITY LEAVE SYSTEM

Thursday, 14 May 2009 01:25

Another very significant policy reform committed to in the 09/10 Federal budget is the implementation of a National Paid Maternity Leave system. The Rudd Government has committed to paying mothers 18 weeks paid maternity leave. Families where the principal carer is earning under $150,000 annually will receive this benefit, with the benefit being paid at the level of the basic wage.

CONTINUING TO BUILD ON OUR WORLD'S BEST UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE SYSTEM

Thursday, 14 May 2009 01:21

Australia is acknowledged as having one of the world's best health care systems, but the Rudd Government wants to make sure we continue to lead the world in health services delivery into the future. The national health reform plan, agreed to by the states, will be good for Australia and very good for our region. It will deliver: * 6,000 more GPs, * cut hospital emergency department waiting times, * deliver 1,300 new hospital beds, * guarantee elective surgery waiting times, provide 20,000 extra young people with access to mental health services.  Universal health care is a fundemantal Labor principle, and a monumental reform introduced by previous Labor Governments. The system provides access to health care for all Australians, and is far more efficient than other comparable schemes.

MODERNISING OUR PUBLIC AND PRIVATE TRANSPORT SYSTEMS

Thursday, 14 May 2009 01:15

The Federal Government is modernising both our private and public transport systems in the Greater Geelong and Colac Otways region. This is bringing new industries and jobs to our region, as well as making travel more efficient and more environmentally friendly. Our major commitments include: * $3.2 billion for the new Colac-Geelong-Melbourne Express Rail line. * $180 million for The Geelong Ring Road. * $110 million for duplication of the Princes highway between Waurn Ponds and Winchelsea, * $50 million for the upgrade of the rail network leading into the Port of Geelong. * $7 million to Upgrade the dangerous Colac Lavers Hill Road * substanital additional money to improve local roads, blackspots and rail crossings. .

THE GREATEST SCHOOL MODERNISATION PROGRAM EVER

Thursday, 14 May 2009 01:08

The Rudd Government is funding Australia's biggest school modernisation program ever. Every Australian primary school, and every primary school in our region, will get a major upgrade. This will include new classrooms, new school halls, new libraries and learning areas. These new facilities will be used by both teachers and students, and be available for the community. In addition to this, all primary schools will also get access to funding for refurbishments. Every local primary school is getting an upgrade, and the building program is providing thousands of jobs for tradespeople locally and around Australia. As well, all Australian high schools will be eligible to apply for new science labs and new language learning centres.