31 Aug | '2020

Defence Industry

The defence of our nation is a solemn duty of our government, and with an unprecedented $270 billion investment the Morrison government one rising to meet the challenge of our times as we work towards two per cent of GDP for defence spending. That investment will create new opportunities for small businesses and create thousands […]

26 Aug | '2020

Women in Sport

The entrepreneurial spirit required to create future Gold Coast jobs was reignited last week at the Reimagine Gold Coast jobs, skills and industry forum organised by the City Heart Taskforce that I chair and convened earlier this year, in May. The City Heart Taskforce has proven to be the vehicle and the Reimagine forum the […]

24 Aug | '2020

COVID-19: Women’s Economic Security

It’s true, the economic security of women has been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Unfortunately, business closures caused by health restrictions have occurred in industries where women make up a large proportion of that workforce. We should also acknowledge that many of the women who have maintained employment through the pandemic have been essential workers who […]

24 Aug | '2020

Gold Coast Community Fund

In a time of crisis, the Gold Coast Community Fund stands for and behind Gold Coasters. In Moncrieff, since the pandemic hit, more people have needed financial and social support. It’s been my privilege to work with the fund to support local groups who had to wait up to six weeks for the Queensland government […]

24 Aug | '2020

Speech-Reimagine Gold Coast 2020

I know everyone in this place is highly conscious of the hardship this pandemic is causing for all Australians. In the engine room of the Gold Coast there are 9,700 businesses relying on JobKeeper, along with other federal government support measures available, to keep the doors open. Gold Coast tourism, small business and education have […]

19 Jun | '2020

Speech – Moncrieff Volunteer Grants 2020

Volunteers have a strong presence throughout the Moncrieff electorate. Whether it’s helping out with local sporting teams, responding to natural disasters and emergencies, or helping local charities support some of our most disadvantaged people, the most important of volunteers have never been more relevant than now as we work to meet the challenges presented by […]

16 Jun | '2020

Speech – RDA Gold Coast Survey on COVID-19

I rise to speak about a survey which has been released by Regional Development Australia on the Gold Coast, which reveals how deeply affected local businesses are by the COVID-19 pandemic. It found that 92 per cent of Gold Coast businesses have been impacted by the pandemic, including those who are not being paid on […]

10 Jun | '2020

Speech – General Motors Holden – Private Members Business

I rise to speak about the General Motors Holden decision to walk away from Australia and from Australians. I do, along with the member for Grey, acknowledge that business is business. However, it is a disappointing and an unexpected decision that has enormous ramifications for 200 dealers, potentially 9,000 employees and 1.6 million vehicle owners […]