Logan Jobs growth, apprenticeships and health are set to benefit from this year’s Federal budget.
The Federal Government has promised that new apprentices will receive $2000 after 12 months if they stay in their trade while another $2000 is up for grabs for tradies in areas with skill shortages such as baking and bricklaying.
Logan’s 21,126 small businesses will also benefit with instant write-offs for assets to the value of $30,000, up from $25,000.
In its Budget reply, Labor promised to offer 150,000 new apprenticeships and increase investment in TAFE.
Health services have received a shot in the arm locally from the Coalition and Labor.
The Federal Government pledged $520,000 to extend Individual Placement and Support Trials at the Meadowbrook Headspace facility.
Federal Labor has promised to build a new Headspace at Logan and expand cancer treatment under Medicare if it wins the next election.
They’ve also promised $33m for a specialist urgent care centre at Logan Hospital to reduce waiting times.
Logan City Council Treasurer, Councillor Trevina Schwarz said Logan residents are concerned about jobs, health and easing cost of living pressures.
“We’re pleased that both sides of politics have increased funding for mental health services. It’s an area that I’m passionate about and it’s good to see a bi-partisan approach to increasing access to services,” Cr Schwarz said.
Cr Schwarz said it was important to provide career paths for young people in Logan.
“Our young people are the Logan leaders of tomorrow and it’s important they have all the support they need to be the best they can be,” she said.
“Ask any young person or parent in Logan and they’ll tell you their number one concern is a lack of employment opportunities.
“Ask any small business owner and they’ll tell you how hard it is to find, and keep, apprentices.
“These incentives will undoubtedly encourage more people to choose a trade and the increase in the asset write-off threshold is another win for small to medium businesses.”
Council’s key priorities in the upcoming federal election include an upgrade for the Mount Lindesay Highway, which has been named as one of the state’s worst roads by RACQ, and the Beaudesert to Salisbury passenger rail service.
The issues will form part of Council’s #FairShare4Logan campaign to ensure Logan’s voice continues to be heard during this year’s election.
Since 2017 # FairShare4Logan has advocated for the State and Federal Governments to properly fund the city’s key infrastructure needs.
The City of Logan’s full wish list can be found at fairshare4logan.com.au.
