Environment

We need to leave our environment in better condition than we inherited from our forefathers, so that our children and future generations can enjoy it. We believe most families want to do the right thing when it comes to achieving this goal.

I know that small environmental measures (like compost bins and recycling) are just as important as big decisions such as how we tackle Queensland’s water supply.

Family First and I would call upon the state government to implement a drink container deposit and recycling scheme (similar to the one in South Australia). This scheme would  greatly reduce the amount of rubbish on our streets and  save  around 8 billion litres of water and 1.8 million tonnes of greenhouse gases per year (if introduced across the country).(Source)

I have previously commented on what the government should be doing within MP offices and governmental departments to help improve the environment. (Click here to read)

I support the continuation of the Solar Bonus Scheme (Click here for more information) which allows home owners to benefit by doing the right thing and reducing the need to increase our power production and infrastructure across the power grid. This scheme also supports many Queensland jobs across the whole state and provides an ease to the cost of living for those who have them installed.

Family First will promote the use of “grey” water from Effluent Treatment Plants for Industrial, Agricultural and other purposes. We support the balancing of the rights of farmers and other land users against the need for maintaining water quality in the Murray River, and saline reduction programs within farming areas.

Law and Order

I want my family to feel safe and secure, and I'm sure every member of the public does.

I think many families are concerned about the safety of our streets and neighbourhoods. Part of this concern is from the release of dangerous offenders into the community.

I support maximum sentences for serious offences. Violent and highly dangerous criminals who are high risk to the community must be kept off the streets.

I'll call for an investigation into a system of restorative justice (What is restorative justice? Click here to find out), where appropriate being bought into Queensland. This system not only helps the offender but also the victim.  

I would also like to see a ban on takeaway bottle shops selling liquor between midnight and 7am and additionally a breaking of the link between alcohol advertising and sport, which encourages a culture of excessive drinking. These measures would have an effect on bring down the number of alcohol fueled incidents within the community.

In regards to policing, older and more experienced police is vitally important to the service and the protecting of our communities, and I wish to retain as many as possible of these valued policeman and woman by allowing them more flexible and part-time opportunities. I would likewise support retired members of the force being used in more flexible ways such working within crime prevention programs, or education and youth programs or in need of emergency during busy periods.