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Queensland State Budget 2011–12

Started by ozbob, May 22, 2011, 10:31:26 AM

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#Metro

The state can, theoretically, go into infinite debt because unlike a natural person, it does not die and has an indefinite lifespan over which to pay back monies.

However, it is a political decision over what level is the "right" level. Too low and you scrimp on today's (and tomorrows needs), too high and borrowing becomes next to impossible with punishingly high interest rates (i.e. you finish up like Greece!).


So I think QLD Gov wants to keep itself around AAA credit rating...
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Stillwater

So, each Queenslander has a net worth of $37,800, eh.  Maybe we should lift the state border to Oxenford and sell off abour 500,000 Queenslanders to New South Wales!  :hg  :-r

#Metro

Courier-Mail is scare mongering IMHO- Debt and Deficit!!! Boo!

$2 billion- Is that all?!  When you consider that is equal to maybe the construction of a busway or parallel runway at Brisbane airport or a road tunnel, in comparison to the very large amount of state assets which would easily be 100x larger than that... it pales...
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ozbob

From the Brisbanetimes click here

State's interest bill to hit $100m a week

QuoteState's interest bill to hit $100m a week
Daniel Hurst
June 13, 2011 - 12:18PM

The Queensland government will soon be paying more than $5 billion in interest on its debt each year, Treasurer Andrew Fraser has revealed.

But Mr Fraser declared today that debt levels would be "manageable", amid opposition claims the government was mismanaging the economy.

Mr Fraser has spent the last few days progressively releasing details of the state's finances and economic outlook in the lead up to tomorrow's State Budget, the final before the next election.

He said the government's debt-busting privatisation program, announced months after the 2009 election, meant borrowings would stand at $52.8 billion at the end of June, down from the $70.3 billion initially forecast.

However, Mr Fraser told reporters total debt would continue to rise to $84.9 billion by 2014/15, resulting in $5.1 billion in interest payments each year, or nearly $100 million a week.

Mr Fraser said this represented nine per cent of the state's revenue and could "be accommodated".

"What we want to do is make sure that debt is manageable," Mr Fraser said when asked if the government had a plan to reduce debt over the long term.

"That's a manageable level of borrowings."

Mr Fraser said the state's financial assets would grow by $45 billion over the next few years, with Queensland's net worth predicted to strengthen to $185 billion.

He said the state's financial position was equivalent to a household with an $85,000 mortgage, $45,000 invested in the sharemarket and $313,000 in assets.

As reported this morning, the deficit is forecast to hit $2.13 billion at the end of the current financial year, up from the $1.47 billion predicted in the mid-year economic update.

Predicted growth was cut from 1.25 per cent to zero after the state's summer of natural disasters took its toll on the economy, with the government suffering heavy losses in forecast coal royalties and other taxation revenue.

"There's no doubt that the Queensland economy has had a torrid time the last couple of years," Mr Fraser said, pointing to the global financial crisis and the disasters.

However, Mr Fraser said business investment over the past year had grown higher than expected and the government was "on track to return to surplus in 2015/16 as promised".

The deficit in the coming financial year would be $4.06 billion, slightly higher than forecast, he said.

Opposition treasury spokesman Tim Nicholls said he doubted Mr Fraser's growth and return-to-surplus forecasts and did not accept claims the debt levels were appropriate.

"If this debt level was manageable, we would be heading back towards our AAA credit rating and there's no sign of that any time soon," he said.

"We need a government that can control its own expenditure and doesn't put the future wellbeing of Queensland into hock in order to win the election, which is what's occurring this time."

The opposition is yet to release detailed economic policies, but Liberal National Party leader Campbell Newman this month put the economy at the centre of his election campaign.

He slammed the government over rising debt levels and the loss of the AAA credit rating, saying there was a need to "revitalise and re-energise our economy".

The state government has repeatedly defended its economic management and borrowings, arguing it had been investing heavily in necessary infrastructure. Mr Fraser said $62 billion had been invested in infrastructure since he became treasurer.

Mr Fraser said the LNP needed to explain what projects or programs it would cut and stop if it were elected, with voters due to go to the ballot box by March next year.

He would not say if further cost-of-living measures would be outlined tomorrow, but argued the disaster recovery task had "constrained" the government's ability to act on those concerns.

Over the weekend, the government announced a plan to offer households devices to help them cut their power bills by ensuring their appliances were not consuming power while on standby.

Read more: http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/states-interest-bill-to-hit-100m-a-week-20110613-1fzt4.html#ixzz1P7pDtnEu
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ozbob

The reality is that SEQ is the bulk of the population, win that electorally and you win Government.

Unless there are significant improvements in the life of the average citizen they are gone for all money IMHO.  Transport issues play a large part in that and if they ignore recent elections in Victoria and NSW they are very foolish IMHO.

From the Courier Mail click here!

Bligh budget includes $83m to lure tourism dollars

QuoteBligh budget includes $83m to lure tourism dollars

    Steven Wardill
    From: The Courier-Mail
    June 14, 2011 12:00AM

LAST ROLL OF DICE?: Today's budget will be the Bligh government's last before the election which is due any time between now and next March.

A CAMPAIGN to boost Queensland's ailing tourism industry will today form part of a State Budget aimed at reviving key sectors and the Bligh Government's re-election hopes.

The Courier-Mail can reveal the Budget will include an $83 million injection for events across Queensland to lure back tourists and support jobs in the sector.

Pensioners will receive direct help with higher rebates for power, water and rates bills from July 1.

However, Treasurer Andrew Fraser yesterday signalled a suite of controversial economic initiatives.

The initiatives are expected to headline the Budget along with cost-of-living measures.

The housing industry could benefit, with the Treasurer last month indicating that a "short-term surgical strike weapon" was being considered for poorer performing sectors.

Repeating that the Budget contained "strong policy choices", Mr Fraser yesterday said the Government had a record of making tough decisions.

But he insisted it was focused on the future and not the looming election.

More details have been released than in previous years as the Government attempts to focus attention today on its remaining plans.

Figures already released reveal the Government will descend more than $4 billion into the red in 2011-12.

However, the Budget will also predict Queensland's economy will bounce back strongly.

The $83 million spending spree on tourism events, from regional fairs to international attractions, will be spread over the next four years.

The funding will support a vast array of events throughout Queensland in a bid to lure visitors back.

Queensland's tourism industry has struggled for years with dwindling visitor numbers to key state attractions.

While the Budget will show widespread economic improvement, the injection into events will attempt to help the tourism sector which supports more jobs than mining and agriculture combined.

Premier Anna Bligh said other states, including Victoria and NSW, had pursued aggressive events strategies and it was time for Queensland to become more pro-active in its approach to attracting visitors.

"Our events have been doing pretty well on a comparatively lean budget but I think it is time to up the ante," she told The Courier-Mail.

"Queensland has to be in the game."

Total funding for major events will more than double from $74 million to $157 million over four years.

The current $22 million Events Queensland budget will increase by $15 million in 2011-12, rising to an extra $24 million in 2013-14.

The funding includes an increased spend on small regional events from $2.4 million to $3 million annually.

"This is a significant funding injection to support and foster regional events in smaller communities, many of which attract visitors from near and far and deliver a big boost to the local economy," Ms Bligh said.

She said experience showed that investment in the right events had the potential to reap major rewards for the host region.

Tourism Minister Jan Jarratt said events supported by Events Queensland attracted more than 500,000 interstate and international visitors each year.

"These events generated more than 906,000 visitor nights for Queensland and that's critically important for local business and local jobs," she said.

Events Queensland will also be handed responsibility for the $18 million spent on V8 Supercar races in Townsville and on the Gold Coast, taking total spending to $175 million.



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Premier and Minister for Reconstruction
The Honourable Anna Bligh
14/06/2011

RECORD EVENTS INVESTMENT TO DELIVER MAJOR TOURISM BOOST

Queensland's critical tourism industry will receive a massive boost from today's State Budget which pours $83 million into events funding over the next four years.

Premier Anna Bligh said the funding boost would build resilience in the tourism industry and drive up increased visitor numbers, supporting regional communities and economies.

Events Queensland's record funding allocation takes the total investment in events over the next four years to more than $175 million - and will effectively double the annual investment in major events from next year.

"Events play a vital role in supporting the state's $9 billion tourism industry and the 222,000 local jobs and 115,000 regional businesses that are part of it," Ms Bligh said today.

"The summer disasters, combined with other factors like the high Aussie dollar and the recent impact of the GFC, has hit the leisure tourism sector hard and we need to do everything we can to build industry resilience into the future.

"The facts are clear: every dollar invested by Events Queensland in major events delivers a return of $10 for the Queensland economy.

"The business events industry is worth more than $700 million to the state economy each year which is why in this year's budget we are increasing our investment in events as a way of future proofing the industry and protecting the local jobs and local businesses that depend on it.

"More than that - this investment sends a clear signal that Queensland is back in business, looking towards the future and going from strength to strength."

Ms Bligh said smart investment in events had a proven track record of success and the potential to reap major rewards for the regions that host them. For example, the Gold Coast Airport Marathon generated an economic benefit of more than $43 million, attracted more than 24,000 people, generated more than 46,000 visitor nights and supported 347 full time jobs.

This year's State Budget includes an events funding package of more than $175 million. The Budget:

·More than doubles the investment in major events across Queensland from more than $74 million to $157 million - an increase of $83 million over four years.

·Brings the responsibility for State's agreements with V8 supercars in Townsville and the Gold Coast under Events Queensland for the first time - an $18 million investment over three years.

·Increases events funding by $15 million in 2011-12, $20 million in 2012-13, $24 million in 2013-14 and $24 million in 2014-15.

·Continues the investment in business events with $4 million allocated per annum - an industry which generated more than $700 million for the state economy last year.

The Premier said the Budget contained a big boost for regional events taking the annual budget from $2.4 million to $3 million for the Events Queensland Regional Development program which supports more than 100 events in communities all over Queensland each year.

"This is a significant funding injection to support and foster regional events in smaller communities, many of which attract visitors from near and far and deliver a big boost to the local economy.

Ms Bligh said the Queensland annual events calendar was diverse, dynamic and gaining momentum - with events ranging from the Brisbane International Tennis, BMW Magic Millions, Gold Coast Airport Marathon, blockbuster exhibitions at the Gallery of Modern Art in Brisbane to the Mooloolaba and Noosa Triathlons, Cairns Indigenous Art Fair and many more.

"In Brisbane, we'll see this year two more Australian exclusive blockbusters at the Gallery of Modern Art - Surrealism and Matisse - thanks to the continuing successful partnership with Events Queensland.

"Events like these not only deliver an economic shot in the arm, they make a strong and positive statement about who we are and give Queenslanders a chance to come together and celebrate our great way of life," Ms Bligh said.

Queensland has the most diverse and comprehensive portfolio of convention centres in Australia, with bureaux in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, the Whitsundays, the Sunshine and Gold Coasts and Brisbane.

In the aftermath of Cyclone Yasi and the summer floods, the Bligh Government invested an extra $1 million to help our convention centres attract business events. Each of the seven bureaux was provided with $100,000 to bolster their individual marketing strategies and a $300,000 national bid fund was established to secure vital business events to Queensland.

Tourism Minister Jan Jarratt said events played a vital role in supporting the state's tourism industry by attracting visitors to stay and spend in Queensland and showcasing key regions to the rest of Australia and the world.

"Major events supported by Events Queensland attract more than half a million visitors from interstate and overseas annually," Ms Jarratt said.

"These events generated more than 906,000 visitor nights for Queensland - and that's critically important for local business and local jobs.

"From the Gold Coast to Cairns, events are delivering strong gains and local communities are reaping the benefits. For example the recent inaugural Challenge Cairns got off to a flying start attracting more than 2000 participants from 17 countries, showcasing the region to the world.

"Off the back of the successful $10 million Nothing Beats Queensland campaign, which delivered a critical shot in the arm for our industry over Easter, it's critical that we invest in new attractions and events to lure holidaymakers to Queensland.

"That's why we're refreshing our image through projects such as the $240 million Cairns Cultural Precinct development, the $56 million Flinders Street Mall redevelopment in Townsville, a $17 million facelift for Airlie Beach, $7 million to upgrade the Whitsunday Coast Airport and the $126 million Metricon Stadium at Carrara."

==============================================================
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Premier and Minister for Reconstruction
The Honourable Anna Bligh
14/06/2011

$60 million for Show relocation

The Bligh Government will set aside $60 million in the State Budget to fund the development of a new Gold Coast Show site at Carrara.

In May, the Government announced that the Show would move from Parklands to Carrara, making way for the development of an Athletes Village for the 2018 Commonwealth games.

Following the Games, the Village would then be transformed into the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct (GCHKP), complementing the new Gold Coast University Hospital.

Premier Anna Bligh said the funding injection would give certainty to the Gold Coast community.

"This money will be used to ensure a smooth transition for the Show from Parklands to Carrara," Ms Bligh said.

"It is a down payment on the investment needed to put in place the infrastructure the Show will need once it moves there permanently from 2014.

"The Government has invited key stakeholders to join a technical working group to facilitate planning for the new site."

The Premier said the Show had a long and proud history on the Gold Coast, and the working group would be tasked with ensuring that legacy is continued into the future.

Member for Broadwater Peta-Kaye Croft said: "It's great to see the funding there to deliver an important part of our vision for the Coast.

"This will enable plans for the Health and Knowledge Precinct to take shape," she said.

Member for Southport Peter Lawlor said: "The Show's a favourite event on the Gold Coast. We believe that a new home for the Show will lead to a bigger and better event for the Gold Coast community."

Member for Albert Margaret Keech said: "I welcome the announcement of the funding for the showgrounds. It will be welcome news for the groups that are currently using the Carrara showgrounds, many of whom I have already met with.

Member for Burleigh Christine Smith said: "I'm glad to see this tangible committment for the relocation of Gold Coast Show. It's a great decision for the Gold Coast as a whole, not just for Parklands.

The funding is allocated for two years from 2012-13.

The State is now seeking approvals to commence compulsory acquisition of a site on the southern side of the Nerang-Broadbeach Rd at Carrara.

It is a 21.28ha area located adjacent to the GCCC property opposite Carrara AFL stadium.

The proposed new home for the show provides a permanent Gold Coast showground and an opportunity to expand the Carrara precinct into a major entertainment and sporting precinct.

==============================================================
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ozbob

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ozbob

#48
http://www.budget.qld.gov.au/  documents now available

Dot points from broadcast (so far)


  • who we are and who we can be
  • confident about Queensland's future
  • first export revenue contraction ever
  • 6.8 billion $ cost for floods etc
  • 2.9 billion $ for road network recovery
  • deficit projection lower
  • QRN + 700M $ in value to State since November
  • 2015-16 forcast for surplus
  • Business +13% past year
  • Exports up 10% coming year
  • Community Ambulance Cover levy abolished, saving $113 off Queenslanders' electricity bills
  • 1.073 Billion to subsidise public transport costs for trains, buses and
    ferries across South East Queensland

Transport --> http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/About-us/Corporate-information/Publications/Budget-highlights.aspx  Not yet updated ..
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http://www.budget.qld.gov.au/budget-papers/2011-12/bp5-part-10-2011-12.pdf

Department of Transport and
Main Roads

2011-12 HIGHLIGHTS
Significant activities provided for in the 2011-12 Budget include:
• delivery of the Transport Network Reconstruction Program by the newly-established
State-wide Program Office that will manage the enormous task of delivering the
department's reconstruction efforts following the flooding and cyclone events across the
State in the 2010-11 summer. Projects funded under the program for 2011-12 include:
− national highway freight access project – Warrego and Landsborough Highways;
− cotton industry freight access for roads around St. George;
− Bruce Highway repairs between Gin Gin and Benaraby;
− reconstruction of sections of the Peak Downs Highway; and
− West Moreton Coal System (including Toowoomba Range).
• continued construction of the Gold Coast Rapid Transit System, a light rail project from
Southport to Broadbeach
• commence construction of a new dual track rail line from Richlands to Springfield,
including new stations at Springfield and Springfield Lakes
• continued construction of the Keperra to Ferny Grove duplication and Ferny Grove
Station upgrade
• continued development of marine infrastructure to enhance the safety of vessels and their
operations in an environment of significant growth
• continued development and implementation of the Vessel Traffic Service strategy that
addresses current and anticipated port developments like those resulting from the LNG
industry in Gladstone
• continued construction of the Northern Busway between Enoggera Creek and Kedron
extending the existing busway from the Royal Brisbane Women's Hospital to Sadlier
Street, Kedron
• completion of the Eastern Busway between the South East Busway and Main Avenue
including bus stations at Stones Corner and Langlands Park
• commence work on the City Place Bus Station in Cairns, as a part of the Cairns Transit
Mall and Public Transport Network Upgrade
• construction of 60 new bus stops at Barron River
• installation of additional noise barriers along the rail corridor from Yeerongpilly to
Corinda as identified in the Network Noise Management Plan
• completion of construction of the Townsville Marine Precinct at the Port of Townsville to
provide a dedicated marine facility for the local industrial and commercial marine
industries
• continued upgrading Berth 10 at the Port of Townsville to better accommodate the Royal
Australian Navy and cruise vessels in the Townsville Ocean Terminal
• upgrading of the Bruce Highway between Ingham and Innisfail on the Cardwell Range
• commence construction of overtaking lanes on the Bruce Highway from Bajool to Gavial
between Benaraby and Rockhampton
• continued upgrading of the Ipswich Motorway between Dinmore and Goodna
2011-12 Queensland State Budget - Service Delivery Statements - Department of Transport and Main Roads 2-119
• continued upgrading of the Port of Brisbane Motorway (Port Connect) duplication of the
existing two-lane motorway and construction of a three kilometre extension from the
Gateway Motorway to Pritchard Street
• commence duplication from two to four lanes at Temples Lane-Farrellys Lane, on the
southern approach to Mackay
• completion of the widening to four lanes of the Douglas Arterial on the Bruce Highway
(Townsville Ring Road)
• continued upgrading of the Pacific Motorway between Springwood South and Daisy Hill
• completion of widening the Pacific Motorway from four to six lanes between Nerang and
Stewart Road
• continued upgrading of the Bruce Highway (Cooroy to Curra) from Sankeys Road to
Traveston Road
• continued pavement widening and culvert repairs and replacements on various sections of
the Eidsvold to Theodore Road
• continued widening of sections of the Warrego Highway between Roma and Mitchell
• continued upgrading of the Kennedy Developmental Road between Hughenden and
Winton
• continued construction of new recreational boating facilities across the State to ensure
that future infrastructure demands can be met as the recreational boating population
continues to grow
• commence early works of the Moreton Bay Rail Link with the first trains expected to start
operating in 2016
• launching the 2011-2021 Queensland Road Safety Strategy aligning Queensland with the
new National Road Safety Strategy 2011-2020 and setting the strategic direction to reduce
the State's road toll
• implementation of a range of initiatives in the Queensland Taxi Strategic Plan 2010-2015
• continue to host the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, as a new body to regulate the
licensing, registration and use of all Australian road vehicles larger than 4.5 tonnes from
1 January 2013, under a single national system of laws
• continuation of a program to introduce upgraded vehicles into school bus fleets across
Queensland
• continued rollout of New Queensland Driver Licence equipment to approximately
223 licence issuing centres across Queensland, expected to be completed by mid 2012
• continued roll out of the TravelSmart Schools program to over 100 schools to provide
opportunities for students to develop life long sustainable travel habits travel, promote
greener, healthier travel to and from school, and to reduce traffic congestion in the school
environment
• introducing new arrangements for commercial management of advertising billboards in
State-controlled road corridors with revenue used to improve road safety outcomes
• continued delivery of new cycleway projects including the Cairns to Aeroglen Cycleway
in co-operation with Cairns City Council and the ongoing investment in cycle
infrastructure in South East Queensland through the Cycle Network Program
• offering up to five year 12 students scholarships in science and engineering based fields
as part of the ongoing Indigenous Scholarship Scheme helping to 'close the gap' for
indigenous students.
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http://www.budget.qld.gov.au/budget-papers/2011-12/bp5-part-10-2011-12.pdf

Statutory Body
TransLink Transit Authority
OVERVIEW
The TransLink Transit Authority (TransLink) was established by the State Government under
the Transport Operations (TransLink Transit Authority) Act 2008 to provide South East
Queensland with the best possible public transport services at a reasonable cost to the
community and Government.
TransLink's role is to lead, plan, specify and provide mass transit for the people in South East
Queensland. Key objectives for the organisation are to deliver a quality experience for the
customer, whilst ensuring sustainable growth and improving service quality across the
network.
In Toward Q2: Tomorrow's Queensland, the State Government outlines its commitment to
reducing the State's carbon footprint by one third by 2020. TransLink continues to contribute
to this goal by encouraging greater use of public transport in South East Queensland.
REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE
Recent achievements
• Coordination of the public transport disaster response and recovery effort, including eight
days of free travel during the January floods.
• In 2010-11, the implementation of $22 million of new bus services and $9.6 million of
new train services provided additional seated passenger capacity of 305,000 per week.
This is in addition to the 301,000 weekly seats added to the network in 2009-10.
• TransLink undertook consultation on a re-casted train timetable for the Caboolture,
Ipswich, Rosewood and North Coast lines in late 2010 to utilise new infrastructure such
as the $218 million Corinda to Darra upgrade and new rollingstock. Changes will be
implemented on 6 June, 2011.
• A new $345 million rail line between Darra and Richlands opened in January 2011,
servicing a new station at Richlands, bus interchange and park 'n' ride facilities.
• Routes 196 (New Farm to Fairfield) and 120 (Garden City to CBD) were upgraded to
high-frequency services as part of a significant bus package on 6 June.
• Western region services restructured in December 2010 and May 2011 to improve ontime
running with Sunday services introduced to many routes for the first time.
• go card migration rising to over 80 per cent with the third phase of the 400,000 go card
giveaway in October 2010 giving more than 80,000 go cards to charity organisations.
• 27 stations on the Ipswich, Rosewood, Caboolture and Sunshine Coast lines being
upgraded to increase levels of safety, security and convenience for customers.
• In July and August 2010, park 'n' rides at Park Ridge ($4 million) and Greenbank RSL
($1.4 million) were completed and a new 122 bay bus park 'n' ride was constructed on
Bribie Island ($4.2 million).
Between September and December 2010, upgrades were opened at Morayfield
($1.1million), Bray Park ($1.1million) and Ormiston train station park 'n' rides
($2.3 million), 230 new bays were added at Dinmore train station ($3 million), 92 new
bays at Burpengary train station ($1.5 million), 159 new bays at Bald Hills train station
($3 million), and an $8 million footbridge was built at Yeerongpilly station.
• In May 2011, 200 new parking spaces were opened at Klump Rd, Mt Gravatt
($6.7 million).
• Continued expansion of the go card retail network to 560 purchase locations and
1,570 top-up locations, including new top-up facilities on board all CityCat and CityFerry
services.
Future developments
• Piloting a world-class real-time customer information system and development of the
TransLink website and mobile information to assist in journey and public transport
information.
• 125 additional and new replacement buses to be added to the fleet, with development of
bus services to support the opening of Stage 2 of the Eastern Busway.
• Train timetable restructures on the Gold Coast, Beenleigh, Cleveland, Doomben, Airport,
Ferny Grove and Shorncliffe lines to improve service reliability and capacity.
• Infrastructure projects are scheduled for completion in 2011-12 at Sandgate, Cooroy,
Rosewood, Zillmere, Birkdale, Jindalee, Logan Central, Redbank Plaza, Peninsula Fair,
UQ Lakes, Enoggera Reservoir, North Lakes, Capalaba, Redland Bay and Noosa.
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#Metro

QuotePiloting a world-class real-time customer information system and development of the

LOL. No need! Where is the bus!
Negative people... have a problem for every solution. Posts are commentary and are not necessarily endorsed by RAIL Back on Track or its members.

ozbob

From the Brisbanetimes click here!

The Budget: southeast Queensland projects

QuoteThe Budget: southeast Queensland projects
Tony Moore
June 14, 2011 - 2:30PM

Specific flood funding projects

   $137 million from state and federal governments to repair Brisbane's riverside parks;
   $26.5 million to repair sections of the Warrego Highway;
   $72.5 million of a total $145 million to repair Brisbane ferry terminals and to start planning on the Riverwalk;
   $16 million to repair AJ Wylie Bridge near Petrie; and
   $10 million in mental health package as part of a $36 million flood community recovery program.

Rail Projects

   $47 million to start work on the $1.47 billion Moreton Bay rail link;
   $118.3 million to push ahead with the Richlands to Springfield Rail line; and
   $70 million is allocated over two years to buy property required for the Cross River Rail Project.

Bus and Road projects

   $66.3 million to finish the Eastern Busway from the South East Busway to Coorparoo;
   $93.7 million for the Northern Busway from Enoggera Creek to Kedron;
   $120 million to extend the Gateway Motorway and double a two-lane link to the Port of Brisbane;
   $84 million to repair transport crossings at Cunningham's Gap and the Great Dividing Range at Toowoomba;
   $147 million to continue the Cooroy to Curra stretch of the Bruce Highway near Gympie;
   $175.3 million to continue the Gold Coast Rapid Rail project from Southport to Broadbeach; and
   $480 million for the final Dinmore to Goodna stretch of the Ipswich Motorway;

Park and Ride stations

   $25.5 million for new park and ride stations at Capalaba and North Lakes; and
   upgraded facilities at new sites at Maroochydore and Logan Central and improvements to the facilities at Enoggera and the University of Queensland Lakes bus station.

Sports

   $4.4 million for the Cricket Australia Centre of Excellence at the Alan Border Field at Albion; and
   $8 million for a new Olympic pool at the Frank Sleeman Sports Complex.

Other projects

   $244.3 million for the new Supreme Court building in Brisbane;
   $30 million towards the expansion of the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre;
   $12.5 million to re-shape the Queensland Museum at South Bank Education;
   $13 million for new kindergartens at Bald Hills, Durack, Gumdale, Kingston, Kruger, Logan Reserve, Mount Gravatt East, Regents Park, Seven Hills State School, Stretton State College and Woodcrest State College;
   $19.85 million for a new state school at Mango Hill;
   $34.9 million to continue working on trade skills SkillsTech training centre at Acacia Ridge; and
   $693 million on vocational education for apprentices and trainees.

Health

   $46 million for the roadworks to establish the site of the $2.033 billion Sunshine Coast University Hospital;
   $242 million for the $1.4 billion new Children's Hospital, including $7 million for a new research facility at the hospital; and
   $436 million towards the $1.76 billion Gold Coast University Hospital.

Housing

   For six months from August 1, anyone buying a newly constructed home or signing a contract valued up to $600,000 to build a new home gets a $10,000 grant. Cost $140 million.

Environment and sustainability research

   $6.8 million to stimulate geo-thermal industry development;
   $32.9 million for solar industry package, including existing solar panels at Metricon Stadium at Carrara, Hervey Bay Hospital and the Wide Bay Community Solar Farm;
   $3.9 million for Queensland's new Biodiversity Strategy; and
   extra $34.5 million to extend the ClimateSmart Home energy efficiency service.

Medical Research

   $145 million towards the $334 million Translational Research Institute near the Princess Alexandra Hospital.

Industry research

   $16.3 million for the Amberley aerospace industry park;

Ambulance stations

   New ambulance stations at Pinjarra Hills, in Brisbane's west, and North Lakes, north of Brisbane and Coomera on the Gold Coast.

Fire stations

   $3.4 million for new fire stations at Brassall in Ipswich and at Ripley to replace the existing Ipswich fire station.

Police

   $54.9 million to keep building the new Queensland Police Academy at Wacol; and
   150 extra police, plus $77.5 million for new police and emergency vehicles, with budget increasing by 4 per cent to $2.1 billion.


Read more: http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/the-budget-southeast-queensland-projects-20110614-1g1c4.html#ixzz1PE0dBybQ
Half baked projects, have long term consequences ...
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ozbob

#54
Now available --> TMR Budget Highlights

Queensland Rail Limited
Queensland Rail has allocated $1.157 billion for rail
infrastructure. $378 million is provided to continue
upgrading rail infrastructure and rollingstock on the
Citytrain network, including:
• $118.3 million to continue construction of the
Richlands to Springfield Rail project, building a new
dual track rail line from Richlands to Springfield,
including new stations at Springfield Lakes and
Springfield
• $97 million to continue building the currently
contracted 40 new three car-carriage passenger trains
to deliver service enhancements between the Gold
Coast, Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast
• $39 million to continue rail capacity upgrades
• $27.3 million to continue construction of new
stabling facilities for additional rollingstock.
Other major capital works are:
• $77 million for further Citytrain station upgrades
• $62 million to commence a major overhaul of
suburban and interurban rollingstock
• $57.6 million to upgrade and expand the tilt train
fleet to enhance the Sunlander passenger service
• $29.8 million to continue the component change out
program, across 87 electric multiple units
• $22.1 million to ensure that Citytrain stations comply
with the 2007 Disability Standards
• $13.5 million to continue modifications to existing
rollingstock, to ensure compliance with the 2007
Disability Standards
• $1.5 million for infrastructure upgrades and other
priority works on the Mount Isa line.

Building world-class sustainable transport infrastructure

The department is committed to providing sustainable
transport for all Queenslanders and that means offering
alternatives to private vehicles. Our new and ongoing
construction projects for busways, rail, high speed light
rail and kilometres of new bikeways provide alternatives
to driving as well as creating economic growth, and
ensuring environmentally friendly and exercise friendly
options are available as part of our integrated transport
system.
• $93.7 million to continue the $731.6 million
construction of the Northern Busway between
Enoggera Creek and Kedron, extending the existing
busway from the Royal Brisbane Women's Hospital to
Sadlier Street, Kedron.
• $66.3 million to complete the $465.8 million Stage
2A of the Eastern Busway between South East
Busway and Main Avenue, Coorparoo, including
$28.5 million provided towards the Northern Busway
between Kedron and Bracken Bridge.
• $175.3 million to continue the construction of the
Gold Coast Rapid Transit System, a light rail project
from Southport to Broadbeach, at a total estimated
cost of $1.2 billion which is Australian, State and
Local Government funded and will be delivered as a
public private partnership.
• $48.3 million to continue the construction of cycle
links across South East Queensland. This is made up
of $36 million towards construction of State-owned
cycle links and $12.3 million in grants to be provided
to local governments.
• $300 million over 5 years towards the $1.15 billion
Moreton Bay Rail Link project between Petrie and
Kippa-Ring.
Half baked projects, have long term consequences ...
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Stillwater


SOME BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS

$47 million to commence works for the $1.147 billion Moreton Bay Rail Link between Petrie and Kippa-Ring.

$118.3 million to continue the $417.7 million construction of the Richlands to Springfield rail project.

$66.3 million to complete the $465.8 million Eastern Busway between the South East Busway and Main Avenue, Coorparoo.

$72.5 million of $145 million to be provided to fasttrack reconstruction of Brisbane Ferry Terminals and the Riverwalk, in partnership with the Australian Government.

$5.5 million of $27.5 million to replace turnouts and recondition the Dalby to Rosewood rail line.

$175.3 million of $1.195 billion for the Gold Coast Rapid Transit System, a light rail project from Southport to Broadbeach, funded by the Australian, State and Local Governments and delivered as a public private partnership.

$57.6 million of $195 million to undertake works in Maryborough to upgrade and expand the tilt train fleet to enhance the Sunlander passenger service.

$12 million to commence work on the Cairns City Place Bus Station, at a total estimated cost of $36 million, as part of the Cairns Transit Mall and Public Transport Network Upgrade.

$8.5 million allocated this year towards the project for a $50 million new road and rail overpass south of the Capricorn Highway, between Gracemere and Kabra.

$1.1 million to construct a cycling and walking track between Yeppoon and Bondoola.

$1.5 million towards the $101.7 million upgrade of the Mount Isa rail line.

Jonno

Might as well take the $480 million for the Dinsmore to Goodna Motorway upgrade and burn it. It will have the same impact as spending it on more roads!

Stillwater


Here is an interesting inclusion in the Budget: 

$62 million to commence a major overhaul of suburban and interurban rollingstock

ozbob

Transport and Multicultural Affairs
The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Budget delivers $1.8 billion for a better transport future

The Bligh Government will invest a massive $1.8 billion in transport infrastructure in the 2011-12 Budget to deliver better public transport and drive forward key transport projects such as the Gold Coast Rapid Transit System and Moreton Bay Rail Link.

Transport Minister Annastacia Palaszczuk said some of the biggest transport projects in the country are now underway in Queensland and this budget would ensure that continues.

"The State Government is committed to improving public transport and this funding will help bolster services, ease congestion, help to tackle climate change and deal with our growing population," Ms Palaszczuk said.

"This year's budget will see a further $175 million invested in the Gold Coast Rapid Transit System and $93.7 million to continue construction of the Northern Busway between Enoggera Creek and Kedron.

"We're getting on with the job of delivering sustainable transport solutions for future generations."

Major projects include:

·$175 million to continue the $1.195 billion Gold Coast Rapid Transit System, a light rail project from Southport to Broadbeach, as well as a three kilometre extension;

·$93.7 million to continue the $731.6 million construction of the Northern Busway between Enoggera Creek and Kedron, extending the existing busway from the Royal Brisbane Women's Hospital to Sadlier Street, Kedron;

·$66.3 million to complete the $465.8 million Stage 2A of the Eastern Busway between South East Busway and Main Avenue, including bus stations at Stones Corner and Langlands Park

·$28.5 million provided towards upgrading the Northern Busway between Kedron and Bracken Bridge;

    $12 million for early stage works of the Moreton Bay Rail Link – a $1.5 billion project to be jointly funded by the State and Federal Governments and Moreton Bay Regional Council.

Ms Palaszczuk said $44 million would be directed to public transport infrastructure improvements acrossSouth East Queensland.

"The TransLink upgrade program will improve current bus stations and build additional bus station infrastructure," she said.

Current estimated project costs include:

    $5.5 million towards Capalaba Park 'n' Ride;
    $5.0 million towards Maroochydore Bus Station;
    $4.5 million towards Enoggera Reservoir Park 'n' Ride;
    $4.0 million towards Logan Central Bus Station;
    $3.5 million towards North Lakes Bus Station;
    $3.0 million towards UQ Lakes Bus Station. PTO...

"We're investing $1.2 billion in rail infrastructure to continue building new rail lines to ease congestion in South East Queensland," she said.

Projects include:

    $459.5 million is provided to continue upgrading rail infrastructure and rollingstock on the Citytrain network, including:
    $118.3 million to continue construction of the Richlands to Springfield Rail project, building a new dual track rail line from Richlands to a new station at Springfield, along with road upgrades and a new station at Springfield Lakes;
    $97 million to continue building 40 new three car-carriage passenger trains to deliver service enhancements between the Gold Coast, Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast
    $39 million to continue rail capacity upgrades;
    $27.3 million for the construction of new stabling facilities for additional rollingstock.

Ms Palaszczuk said the State Government was committed to improving transport infrastructure for regional communities and would continue to fund much needed upgrades to regional services.

Other major capital works include:

    $62 million to commence a major overhaul of suburban and interurban rollingstock
    $57.6 million to upgrade and enhance the tilt train fleet, particularly the Sunlander passenger services;
    $22.1 million to ensure that Citytrain stations comply with the 2007 Disability Standards;
    $13.5 million to continue modifications to existing rollingstock, to ensure compliance with the 2007 Disability Standards;
    $1.5 million for infrastructure upgrades and other priority works on the Mount Isa Line.

"This budget is about connecting our communities by giving them public transport options to suit their lifestyle," Ms Palaszczuk said.
Half baked projects, have long term consequences ...
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colinw

What is the "three kilometre extension" of the Gold Coast light rail system?

Gold Coast Rapid Transit thread -> click here

ozbob

http://www.scottemerson.com.au/

Opposition Statement

Scott Emerson MP
Shadow Minister for Transport,
Multicultural Affairs and the Arts
LNP Member for Indooroopilly

14 June 2011

No fare relief for public transport users

Labor has once again whacked already hard-hit commuters by failing to deliver any public transport fare relief, the State Opposition said today.

Shadow Transport Minister Scott Emerson said Labor has already punished commuters with fare rises of 20 per cent last year and 15 per cent this year, with further increases of 15 per cent each year for the next three years.

"Under Labor fares keep going up, but the service doesn't improve," said Mr Emerson.

"Despite Transport Minister Anastasia Palaszczuk telling parliament last month she had spoken to the Treasurer about re-introducing the scrapped monthly, six-monthly and 12-monthly tickets, the budget has only delivered more fare increases.

"Labor keeps getting it wrong on public transport and this latest State Budget shows that another dud Minister is in charge," he said.

Mr Emerson said the Transport Minister has already admitted she will review the bungled $26 million train timetable upgrade she rolled out two weeks ago because of overcrowding and loss of services.

"And honest commuters who accidentally forget to touch off their go cards will also be hit by the Minister's doubling of fines with no measures put in place to ensure those who accidentally forget to tag off have a chance to rectify the problem," said Mr Emerson.

"These extra costs have gone into Labor's escalating debt and budget black hole rather than improving our public transport services.

"Labor's $85 billion debt means an interest bill for Queensland taxpayers of $5 billion a year, which equates to about $100 million a week and $595,000 an hour and still Queenslanders do not get an improved public transport service.

"A CanDo LNP government will encourage Queenslanders to use our public transport system and will invest in commuter infrastructure," Mr Emerson said.
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Stillwater


The Australian newspaper tonight claimed there was a $2.9 billion unallocated pool of money (residual funds from the sale of Queensland National and due in September 2012) that is not included in the budget and is unallocated against any profram or project.  If true, that represents the 'election slush fund'.  The government can go to the election in March 2012 able to make promises for projects that would be included in the 2012-13 budget, with the promises to be funded from September 2012, when the $2.9 billion revenue stream  kicks in.

BrizCommuter

Quote from: Stillwater on June 14, 2011, 19:42:58 PM

The Australian newspaper tonight claimed there was a $2.9 billion unallocated pool of money (residual funds from the sale of Queensland National and due in September 2012) that is not included in the budget and is unallocated against any profram or project.  If true, that represents the 'election slush fund'.  The government can go to the election in March 2012 able to make promises for projects that would be included in the 2012-13 budget, with the promises to be funded from September 2012, when the $2.9 billion revenue stream  kicks in.

$2.9 billion for the Ashgrove to Roma Street metro line.  :o

ozbob

From the Brisbanetimes click here!

Opposition promises to cut power bills further

QuoteOpposition promises to cut power bills further
Daniel Hurst
June 16, 2011 - 3:23PM

Queenslanders could save a further $120 on their power bills under an opposition plan to freeze the standard domestic electricity tariff, the Liberal National Party says.

But the government today accused the LNP of fudging the details on how it would pay for the $250 million cost of living measures.

LNP treasury spokesman Tim Nicholls, delivering the Budget reply speech on behalf of party leader Campbell Newman, announced plans to shake up power pricing and ease household bills.

Mr Nicholls said the LNP would change the way in which Queensland Competition Authority decisions influenced electricity prices.

"An LNP government would immediately freeze the standard domestic tariff – Tariff 11 – while allowing the fixed charge to rise in accordance with the QCA recommendation," he said.

"By freezing Tariff 11, average households using around six megawatt hours per year could save around $120 on their power bills in 2012/13."

Mr Nicholls also pledged to "abolish the current ridiculous pricing system that allows retailers to charge you more if you use less power".

The state government last month flagged moves to scrap the Benchmark Retail Cost Index, which had formed the basis of power price rises, and introduced legislation yesterday.

Mr Nicholls dismissed suggestions the LNP had copied the government's policies, saying the opposition had long called for tariff reform.

He backed the government's decision, in the State Budget this week, to scrap the $110-a-year ambulance levy, while slamming the federal government's planned carbon tax.

The LNP already had a four-point plan to cut the cost of water and had previously pledged to freeze car registration. He said the opposition's cost-of-living measures would require funding of about $250 million a year.

Where does the money come from?

Money to pay for the measures would be found by reducing waste and cutting the government's consulting bill by about 15 per cent a year.

Mr Nicholls said the LNP would also find savings in the Queensland Future Growth Fund Projects and by building the Sunshine Coast University Hospital as a public-private partnership.

Fronting the media after Mr Nicholls's speech, Mr Newman said he would release a fully costed economic plan at a later date.

"We're going to be open and accountable; we will clearly set out prior to the election were the money is coming from," he told reporters outside State Parliament.

Mr Newman said money allocated in the Budget for the Sunshine Coast University Hospital had not changed, despite the government announcing in April it would deliver it as a public-private partnership.

"There are savings there to be had," he said, insisting there would be no impact on the hospital construction.

But Treasurer Andrew Fraser told reporters the opposition had failed to provide any detail and rejected claims savings were available from the hospital's public-private partnership that had not been factored into the Budget.

Mr Fraser said Mr Newman could not be trusted when he spoke of delivering savings from PPPs given the Clem7 tunnel experience.

"All of the funds for the Sunshine Coast University Hospital are fully accounted for and fully factored into the Budget," he told reporters.

"What we saw from the LNP was just a couple of highfaluting policies and no details."

Mr Fraser said the government had already announced an overhaul of power pricing.

The debate comes two days after Treasurer Andrew Fraser delivered his final State Budget before the next election, due by March.

The government decided it would axe its $110-a-year ambulance levy in a bid to ease pressure on household electricity bills. It also announced a one-off $10,000 grant to encourage home buying.

However, to pay for the two measures, the government unveiled plans to increase stamp duty charged to home owners who switch residences by up to $7175.

From August 1, the transfer duty payable will be the same for investment homes or principal places of residence, a move the opposition vowed to oppose.

'Height of hypocrisy'

Mr Fraser had called on the LNP to use the budget reply speech to spell out specific polices rather than just wheeling out slogans and criticisms.

But Mr Nicholls said: "It is the height of hypocrisy for Labor to demand policies from the LNP, when it cannot even explain how it plans to get the state back on track."

In his speech, Mr Nicholls repeated his criticisms of the government's plans to increase debt to $85 billion within four years, despite the asset sales that were promoted as a measure to reduce borrowings.

Repeating common LNP themes, Mr Nicholls said Labor had mismanaged the economy and become addicted to debt and spending.

He highlighted increases to public transport fares, electricity bills and registration costs.

Mr Nicholls said the LNP would get the state's economy moving again by stopping wasteful government spending and boosting the authority of the Co-ordinator General's office to oversee major projects.

He said an LNP government would fight the federal government's planned carbon tax and join any court challenge against the mining tax.

"The LNP will stand up and fight for Queensland," Mr Nicholls said.

"This craven kowtowing to Canberra is costing us dearly."

The LNP spokesman said his party would release detailed plans to tackle housing affordability and improve the health and education systems "closer to the election". And the party would oppose the government's "insidious" stamp duty hikes.

Part way through the speech, Mr Fraser criticised the opposition's lack of substance by tweeting: "22 mins and a whole lotta nuthin. So far some explicit commitments to not release policies!"

Earlier, Ms Bligh ridiculed Mr Newman's decision to have Mr Nicholls deliver the budget reply speech, saying interim opposition leader Jeff Seeney must be having a "rostered day off".

Mr Newman, who is leading the party from outside Parliament until the next election when he hopes to win the seat of Ashgrove, is ahead of Ms Bligh in popularity polls.

Read more: http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/opposition-promises-to-cut-power-bills-further-20110616-1g51h.html#ixzz1PPkhLtxJ
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Stillwater


Oh dear, no specifics.  The LNP will cut wasteful government expenditure and consultants - the hoary chesnut.  You know they are really serious when they promise to reduce the number of ministerial advisors and spin doctors.   :-r

And they will represent Queensland more forcefully in Canberra, which means more in-your-face political brawls -- Labor in Canberra, LNP in Queensland.  Obviously the LNP doesn't believe that a Labor federal government would be more inclined to cock an ear to state Labor governments than listen to the shrill from Queensland along the lines of 'give us more money Canberra.'  Oh yeah, good policy.

Stillwater


The LNP's additional subsidies to counter rising electricity prices will come from the funding set aside for the Sunshine Coast University Hospital -- the No.1 priority according to all LNP members on the Sunshine Coast.   One wonders what they are telling the partyroom.  Sure can, Can Do!  Raid our top priority and slap us in the face.  Please sir, may we have some more humiliation.

Zoiks

Add to that the Cambell's obsession with cars, complete lack of transport policy other then more cars and wanting to scrap the CRR for an uncosted metro and we have a disaster.

If it was not such a serious subject, I would almost love the LNP to get in but not cambell.

Gazza

QuoteLabor in Canberra, LNP in Queensland.  Obviously the LNP doesn't believe that a Labor federal government would be more inclined to cock an ear to state Labor governments than listen to the shrill from Queensland along the lines of 'give us more money Canberra.'  Oh yeah, good policy.
Because that period where it was ALP in all state/fed governments resulted in such a goldrush of things being done well and full co-operation didn't it?

Zoiks

From memory we have had more investment in infrastructure over the last 4 years them the 10 years before that

ozbob

Queensland Parliament Hansard

http://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/view/legislativeAssembly/Hansard/documents/2011.pdf/2011_06_16_DAILY.pdf

16 Jun 2011 Approp. Bills; Comm. Amb. Cover Levy Repeal & Rev. & O'r Leg. A'ment Bill

QuoteMr EMERSON (Indooroopilly—LNP) (3.44 pm): Queensland is crying out for cost-of-living relief
from this high-taxing, wasteful Labor government, but once again they have been let down in the state
budget. That is no more obvious than in the area of transport. Whether one takes public transport or
drives their own car, they are going to be paying more under this Labor budget. Just when we are
hoping for some relief from this Labor-driven cost-of-living burden we instead get slugged again by this
government.

If a person takes public transport they have already had to pay 20 per cent more for fares last
year and 15 per cent more this year. Under this Labor government and this Labor budget they will be
paying 15 per cent more next year as well and then 15 per cent more the year after that—fare rise after
fare rise. Labor is determined to ensure that fares keep going up and up and up. There is no relief from
this Labor government.

For Queensland families and households battling to pay for high electricity and water prices, the
constantly rising cost of fares is just another blow. It is an extraordinary decision and one of the clearest
demonstrations of Labor's mismanagement of the state's finances that it needs to keep making these
massive increases in fare prices when we want to encourage more people to take public transport to cut
congestion on roads and help the environment.

South-East Queensland commuters are already paying some of the highest prices in the world for
public transport, despite being consistently told train and bus fares are very competitive. Most cities are
offering heavily discounted weekly or monthly tickets which are no longer available here after they were
scrapped by Labor as part of the rollout of its go card. The minister's predecessor, the failed former
transport minister, Rachel Nolan, stated in October 2009 that passengers would continue to pay
cheaper fares than in Sydney or Melbourne despite the fare increases. This is not the case. Weekly
tickets are available in Sydney for as little as $25 and in Melbourne from $29.40. This is much cheaper
than Brisbane commuters pay each week.

Despite all the empty rhetoric from Labor about how well it has done on public transport, still only
seven out of every 100 journeys is taken by public transport. That is the same percentage of journeys
taken by public transport when Labor came to power in 1998—more than 12 years ago. It wasthat has gone up is the price of fares.
What Labor does not understand is that unless public transport is made a viable alternative
people will not choose it over private transport. These massive fare increases do not encourage anyone
to choose public transport. All this week's budget does is increase fares even more. It is not just fares
that are going up. Previously one may have got some relief from monthly, six-monthly or 12-monthly
tickets. These periodic tickets and the savings they gave commuters were scrapped by Labor when it
introduced the go card.

That meant that, on top of the fare rises, there was the loss of discounts. For instance, if you are
a Sunshine Coast commuter travelling by train to Brisbane, based on a 12-month ticket your annual
transport bill would have jumped from $3,224 in 2009 to $5,800 this year. By 2014, Sunshine Coast
commuters will be paying $8,834 to commute from zone 16. That is nearly three times the cost they paid
five years ago.

What has Labor done to help those commuters? It has offered them rhetoric. Last month when I
questioned the minister about the loss of those periodic tickets, she told parliament that she was looking
at it 'very seriously'. She told parliament—
One of the concerns that people have been expressing to me is in relation to the six-month and 12-month passes.
She said—
This is something that as minister I am seriously looking at and about which I have had discussions with the Treasurer.

The transport minister had the chance to fix it, to give some fare relief to those commuters. What
did the minister deliver after her talk with the Treasurer about this very serious issue? Zero, zip, zilch,
except for three more fare rises at 15 per cent each. Just like her failed predecessors, this minister has
failed to deliver.

However, it was not just the minister telling parliament how seriously she was taking the issue of
fare relief. In April the minister told the Brisbane Times that she was seeking urgent advice on the issue.

She said—
... we've got [the] budget in June, so we'll need to be making a decision about these six-monthly and 12 monthly passes pretty
quickly.

The minister was taking it seriously. She knew it was urgent. The budget was coming up. She was
speaking with the Treasurer. And she delivered zero. Well, it was not quite zero. I am wrong there. The
minister says that she is forming a committee to look at the issue now.

Mr Cripps: A committee?

Mr EMERSON: A committee! How typical of Labor to form a committee. She made a promise to
fix the issue, but all she delivers is a committee. The fares keep going up, but all the minister can do is
form a committee. At the same time, over the coming year Labor will collect another $73 million from
public transport users. Under Labor, fares keep going up but the service does not improve. Is it any
wonder there were 10 million fewer trips on public transport than forecast for 2010-11? Is it any wonder
there was a five per cent fall in trips on public transport when commuters face fare rise after fare rise,
and all this minister can do is break a promise and form a committee?

Labor keeps getting it wrong on public transport. This latest state budget shows that another
failed minister is in charge. As Robert Dow, from commuter advocacy group Back on Track told the
Courier-Mail, the budget was a disappointment. An article in that newspaper stated—
"We think (the Budget) is a lost opportunity ...," Mr Dow said.

The failure to provide fare relief is just the latest failure of this government to deliver for public
transport users. Last week the transport minister made the admission that the new train timetables,
which took more than a decade to deliver and cost $26 million of taxpayers' money, may be subject to
another review. That was an admission that Labor has once again bungled the $26 million spent on the
first major upgrade of train timetables in almost 15 years and has not alleviated overcrowding for public
transport commuters. Almost 15 years and $26 million later, still Labor has not got it right. Within 48
hours, commuters on the new timetables had seen a loss of service, longer journeys and overcrowding.
It is a farce when the minister admits we may need another review of the review. What Labor promises
and what it delivers are two different things. Under this government we see fares going up and services
getting worse.

If you give up on public transport, this failed Labor government will hit you as a motorist as the
cost of running a motor vehicle will keep going up because of this budget. Since 2008 the state
government has increased car registration by almost 30 per cent. Is it any wonder that under this Labor
government Queensland has become what the RACQ calls the most expensive state to own and run a
motor vehicle? Many families own two cars, and these increases will be a double hit to their household
budget.
Half baked projects, have long term consequences ...
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BrizCommuter

Quote from: ozbob on June 19, 2011, 18:10:04 PM
Queensland Parliament Hansard

http://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/view/legislativeAssembly/Hansard/documents/2011.pdf/2011_06_16_DAILY.pdf

16 Jun 2011 Approp. Bills; Comm. Amb. Cover Levy Repeal & Rev. & O'r Leg. A'ment Bill

QuoteMr EMERSON (Indooroopilly—LNP) (3.44 pm): Queensland is crying out for cost-of-living relief
from this high-taxing, wasteful Labor government, but once again they have been let down in the state
budget. That is no more obvious than in the area of transport. Whether one takes public transport or
drives their own car, they are going to be paying more under this Labor budget. Just when we are
hoping for some relief from this Labor-driven cost-of-living burden we instead get slugged again by this
government.

If a person takes public transport they have already had to pay 20 per cent more for fares last
year and 15 per cent more this year. Under this Labor government and this Labor budget they will be
paying 15 per cent more next year as well and then 15 per cent more the year after that—fare rise after
fare rise. Labor is determined to ensure that fares keep going up and up and up. There is no relief from
this Labor government.

For Queensland families and households battling to pay for high electricity and water prices, the
constantly rising cost of fares is just another blow. It is an extraordinary decision and one of the clearest
demonstrations of Labor's mismanagement of the state's finances that it needs to keep making these
massive increases in fare prices when we want to encourage more people to take public transport to cut
congestion on roads and help the environment.

South-East Queensland commuters are already paying some of the highest prices in the world for
public transport, despite being consistently told train and bus fares are very competitive. Most cities are
offering heavily discounted weekly or monthly tickets which are no longer available here after they were
scrapped by Labor as part of the rollout of its go card. The minister's predecessor, the failed former
transport minister, Rachel Nolan, stated in October 2009 that passengers would continue to pay
cheaper fares than in Sydney or Melbourne despite the fare increases. This is not the case. Weekly
tickets are available in Sydney for as little as $25 and in Melbourne from $29.40. This is much cheaper
than Brisbane commuters pay each week.

Despite all the empty rhetoric from Labor about how well it has done on public transport, still only
seven out of every 100 journeys is taken by public transport. That is the same percentage of journeys
taken by public transport when Labor came to power in 1998—more than 12 years ago. It wasthat has gone up is the price of fares.
What Labor does not understand is that unless public transport is made a viable alternative
people will not choose it over private transport. These massive fare increases do not encourage anyone
to choose public transport. All this week's budget does is increase fares even more. It is not just fares
that are going up. Previously one may have got some relief from monthly, six-monthly or 12-monthly
tickets. These periodic tickets and the savings they gave commuters were scrapped by Labor when it
introduced the go card.

That meant that, on top of the fare rises, there was the loss of discounts. For instance, if you are
a Sunshine Coast commuter travelling by train to Brisbane, based on a 12-month ticket your annual
transport bill would have jumped from $3,224 in 2009 to $5,800 this year. By 2014, Sunshine Coast
commuters will be paying $8,834 to commute from zone 16. That is nearly three times the cost they paid
five years ago.

What has Labor done to help those commuters? It has offered them rhetoric. Last month when I
questioned the minister about the loss of those periodic tickets, she told parliament that she was looking
at it 'very seriously'. She told parliament—
One of the concerns that people have been expressing to me is in relation to the six-month and 12-month passes.
She said—
This is something that as minister I am seriously looking at and about which I have had discussions with the Treasurer.

The transport minister had the chance to fix it, to give some fare relief to those commuters. What
did the minister deliver after her talk with the Treasurer about this very serious issue? Zero, zip, zilch,
except for three more fare rises at 15 per cent each. Just like her failed predecessors, this minister has
failed to deliver.

However, it was not just the minister telling parliament how seriously she was taking the issue of
fare relief. In April the minister told the Brisbane Times that she was seeking urgent advice on the issue.

She said—
... we've got [the] budget in June, so we'll need to be making a decision about these six-monthly and 12 monthly passes pretty
quickly.

The minister was taking it seriously. She knew it was urgent. The budget was coming up. She was
speaking with the Treasurer. And she delivered zero. Well, it was not quite zero. I am wrong there. The
minister says that she is forming a committee to look at the issue now.

Mr Cripps: A committee?

Mr EMERSON: A committee! How typical of Labor to form a committee. She made a promise to
fix the issue, but all she delivers is a committee. The fares keep going up, but all the minister can do is
form a committee. At the same time, over the coming year Labor will collect another $73 million from
public transport users. Under Labor, fares keep going up but the service does not improve. Is it any
wonder there were 10 million fewer trips on public transport than forecast for 2010-11? Is it any wonder
there was a five per cent fall in trips on public transport when commuters face fare rise after fare rise,
and all this minister can do is break a promise and form a committee?

Labor keeps getting it wrong on public transport. This latest state budget shows that another
failed minister is in charge. As Robert Dow, from commuter advocacy group Back on Track told the
Courier-Mail, the budget was a disappointment. An article in that newspaper stated—
"We think (the Budget) is a lost opportunity ...," Mr Dow said.

The failure to provide fare relief is just the latest failure of this government to deliver for public
transport users. Last week the transport minister made the admission that the new train timetables,
which took more than a decade to deliver and cost $26 million of taxpayers' money, may be subject to
another review. That was an admission that Labor has once again bungled the $26 million spent on the
first major upgrade of train timetables in almost 15 years and has not alleviated overcrowding for public
transport commuters. Almost 15 years and $26 million later, still Labor has not got it right. Within 48
hours, commuters on the new timetables had seen a loss of service, longer journeys and overcrowding.
It is a farce when the minister admits we may need another review of the review. What Labor promises
and what it delivers are two different things. Under this government we see fares going up and services
getting worse.

If you give up on public transport, this failed Labor government will hit you as a motorist as the
cost of running a motor vehicle will keep going up because of this budget. Since 2008 the state
government has increased car registration by almost 30 per cent. Is it any wonder that under this Labor
government Queensland has become what the RACQ calls the most expensive state to own and run a
motor vehicle? Many families own two cars, and these increases will be a double hit to their household
budget.

But where are Mr Emerson and Can Do's public transport policies?

somebody

At least the opposition has made some valid points in that speech.

Will the opposition be any better?  I'm not convinced.

Fares_Fair

We all eagerly await the oppositions transport policies in the hope the government can take them, just like water policy.

Regards,
Fares_Fair.
Regards,
Fares_Fair


#Metro

Too much of the transport network is configured as "Welfare". I mean, look at how many BUZ services there are in proportion to the rest of the route, how many are there, like 12 now... out of 200 or so? What's that 8%, which is TERRIBLE.

Trains, of which there are five times more stations than busway stations (so more people live near a train station!) are as bad as ever. And we are paying so much to prop up rotten apples.

Something has to give. There is a ceiling I believe to how far people will tolerate fare rises. I don't mind fare rises, but Brizcommuter is right, other systems overseas charge similar fares but give much more bang for that price. There is so much duplication and pure waste in the bus system (routes overlapping, most bus routes operate as half hourly welfare services which will NEVER get heaps of patronage because the service is rotten, plus steadfast refusal to do interchange) and train services are just terrible.

You don't have to be a genius to see what is wrong-- if you sell rubbish you will find that people won't pay much for it! 
Negative people... have a problem for every solution. Posts are commentary and are not necessarily endorsed by RAIL Back on Track or its members.

Golliwog

Be reasonable TT! Not all of those should be BUZ routes! You've said so yourself.
There is no silver bullet... but there is silver buckshot.
Never argue with an idiot. They'll drag you down to their level and beat you with experience.

HappyTrainGuy

Quote from: Stillwater on June 14, 2011, 19:42:58 PM

The Australian newspaper tonight claimed there was a $2.9 billion unallocated pool of money (residual funds from the sale of Queensland National and due in September 2012) that is not included in the budget and is unallocated against any profram or project.  If true, that represents the 'election slush fund'.  The government can go to the election in March 2012 able to make promises for projects that would be included in the 2012-13 budget, with the promises to be funded from September 2012, when the $2.9 billion revenue stream  kicks in.

That'll be the estimated worth of shares that the Government still has in Queensland Rail National when it was priced at 2.55 which is now priced at 3.19 or something down from 3.50 back in May. By 2012 it should be substantially over 3 billion.

#Metro

QuoteBe reasonable TT! Not all of those should be BUZ routes! You've said so yourself.

If I am being charged unreasonable fares, I expect unreasonably good service. Period.

No not all those routes should be BUZ routes. But that does not mean we should be served rotten apples like we are now and pay Paris prices for it.

The sooner the core frequent network is in place, the sooner those non-BUZ routes can be terminated at major shopping centres and the frequency massively upped by making the routes shorter.
Negative people... have a problem for every solution. Posts are commentary and are not necessarily endorsed by RAIL Back on Track or its members.

justanotheruser

Quote from: ozbob on June 14, 2011, 18:47:05 PM
http://www.scottemerson.com.au/

"And honest commuters who accidentally forget to touch off their go cards will also be hit by the Minister's doubling of fines with no measures put in place to ensure those who accidentally forget to tag off have a chance to rectify the problem," said Mr Emerson.
Can anyone actually confirm this? That is confirm that you can't get a refund for the difference between the fine and fare? I have always been able to get a refund even when it was my fault (I have always been honest and upfront in telling translink when it was my fault).


Quote from: Stillwater on June 16, 2011, 17:02:06 PMOh dear, no specifics.  The LNP will cut wasteful government expenditure and consultants - the hoary chesnut.  You know they are really serious when they promise to reduce the number of ministerial advisors and spin doctors.   :-r
Considering that the coalition has a history of getting more consultants I gotta agree with you here.

Jonno

Yaaa let's pick on consultants because they bring in valuable lessons/knowledge from around Australia and the world (aka don't make the same mistake twice) and deliver clear outcomes!  What a waste of money... Where the sarcasm icon?

The better option is to assume we know best and ignore the rest of the world.

O_128

Quote from: tramtrain on June 19, 2011, 22:18:55 PM
QuoteBe reasonable TT! Not all of those should be BUZ routes! You've said so yourself.

If I am being charged unreasonable fares, I expect unreasonably good service. Period.

No not all those routes should be BUZ routes. But that does not mean we should be served rotten apples like we are now and pay Paris prices for it.

The sooner the core frequent network is in place, the sooner those non-BUZ routes can be terminated at major shopping centres and the frequency massively upped by making the routes shorter.

Paris is cheaper  ;D , About $1.50 for an adult to travel anywhere within zone 1 which is equivalent to our zones 1-4 or about $22 for a weekly which is put onto your go card equivalent.
"Where else but Queensland?"

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