The housing crisis continues to worsen across the country with June data showing that dwelling approvals dropped by a further 6.5%. Combined with soaring rental costs, successive interest rate increases and the possibility of further rate rises to come, it’s easy to understand why so many Australians remain concerned about finding somewhere affordable to live, let alone buy a home. A recent report shows that the Labor government’s target to build 1.2 million homes over the next five years will not be achieved, with housing affordability worsening.
Cost-of-living remains the number one issue of concern with huge increases in food, electricity, gas, health and education. The ABS has released the inflation rate for the June quarter, showing the annual rate has risen to 3.8 percent - a 0.2 increase since the start of the year.
We’re also now hearing about significant numbers of cars being repossessed and being sold at auction.
Rex Airlines has entered voluntary administration and has cut capital city flights with major job losses foreshadowed. This follows closely on the collapse of Bonza and raises questions about the viability of small airlines in Australia.
Over in the United States the Presidential race changed markedly during the month; President Biden withdrew his candidacy for President, Vice-President Kamala Harris became the presumptive Democrat nominee, and the world was shocked and appalled by the attempted assassination of former President Trump.Violence has no place in our democracy.
The United Kingdom has a new Prime Minister and King Charles III and Queen Camilla will visit Australia in October.
Locally, work on the M1 upgrades continue. We would all agree that completion needs to be prioritised, so I took the opportunity to brief Senator Bridget McKenzie, Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, on progress.
One of the highlights of my role as Member for McPherson is conducting Citizenship Ceremonies and I was delighted to welcome 55 new Australians in July and I have more ceremonies scheduled for the remainder of this year.
Life saving is a key part of our community and it was my pleasure to host a morning tea to personally thank representatives of local surf lifesaving clubs, branch and Neptune Royal Lifesaving Club that patrol Tallebudgera Creek. Keep an eye out over the coming months for events to support the 100 year anniversary of SLSQ Point Danger Branch and congratulations to all members and supporters.
The 71st anniversary of the signing of the armistice ending the Korean War was commemorated at the Queensland Korean War Memorial, Broadbeach and it was once again wonderful to meet and listen to our Veterans. We are so very proud of you and grateful for your service.
To further assist with advocacy and support for our Veterans, the Currumbin Palm Beach RSL Sub-Branch has received more than $45,000 in federal funding. We have a large Veteran community on the Gold Coast and our RSL Sub-branches play a unique role in providing friendship, support and ensuring our Veterans and their families receive the recognition for their service they deserve. We will never forget.
Until next month.
