State budget 2023 - Cost of living help for Hervey Bay

The 2023 State budget has once again delivered for the people of the Hervey Bay electorate.

Member for Hervey Bay Adrian Tantari said, “we know that cost of living is impacting every family across Queensland, and this is no different for the people of the Hervey Bay.

“The Palaszczuk Government promised to ease cost of living and this Budget delivers that.

“Addressing everyday costs is what this budget has done.

“Included in this budget are several relief subsidies and rebates that will have a real impact on home budgets.

Electricity Rebate for all.

“As a part of this Budget, every Hervey Bay household, will receive an electricity rebate totalling at least $550.

“This rebate will be split evenly over the four quarters next financial year.

“Even better for eligible concession holders on top of the $550, they will continue receive the standing $372 concession.

Free Kindy for all.

“As of January 2024, Hervey Bay families will be able to receive 15 hours per week free kindy for all 4-year-olds.

“That’s a saving on average of around $4600 per year through this initiative.

Increase in Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme (PTSS).

“I am also pleased to announce that following my call to government for an increase in PTSS subsidy rates, that the Palaszczuk Government has responded and included in this year’ Budget an increase in the PTSS subsidy.

Member for Hervey Bay Adrian Tantari said, “This budget again delivers for Hervey Bay.

“We have spending on cost of living, on our health, on our infrastructure, on our education, on our roads, and with this spending comes the many 100’s jobs created in our local community.”

“As the local member I am focused on ensuring, as Hervey Bay grows, we will stay in front of the curve, building the hospitals, the schools, the roads and the infrastructure needed to meet the challenges ahead and well into the future as we continue to build a better Hervey Bay.

Some other key budget funding announcements include:

• Swimsmart Vouchers - A two year expansion of the FairPlay scheme to provide up to $150 for eligible children aged up to 4 years old to learn to swim.
• $2.3m towards the start of the Hervey Bay Aquatic Centre refurbishment to construct a splash pool and redevelop both the 25m and 50m pool.
• Funding to assist with the Scarness Beachside Tourist Park Redevelopment.
• Hervey Bay Fire and Rescue Station land acquisition.
• Hervey Bay Police Station replacement facility.
• Hervey Bay Water Police replacement facility.