Budget Empowers Redcliffe Residents

Peninsula residents can get a bit of extra cash in their back pockets after the State Government's latest budget delivered a raft of concessions designed to help those in need, particularly when it comes to paying the power bill.

Among the budget offerings, Moreton Bay's seniors and pensioners can access an electricity bill rebate of up to $330 a year and residents with a Commonwealth Health Care Card have an extra six months (to December 31) to apply for a backdated electricity rebate covering entitlements from January 1 this year.

But it's not only about electricity savings, says Redcliffe MP Yvette D'Ath. Mrs D'Ath says Redcliffe residents should visit the new Smart Savings website at www.qld.gov.au/smartsavings or phone 13 74 68 to discover the concessions for which they are eligible.

The Smart Savings website brings together all of the Government's many concessions and rebates into one location,� she says.

There are 16 categories that cover everything from the Spectacle Supply Scheme and Home Assist Secure, to Rental Bond Loans.

There [is] a range of special discounted rates for seniors, people with health issues, young people going into training and many more.�

The budget isn't only about concessions. Mrs D'Ath says Redcliffe students will benefit thanks to about $11 million allocated to school infrastructure projects.

This includes $4.5 million for Redcliffe Special School to construct more classrooms as part of a project worth a total $6.5 million,� she says.

$4.6 million will also go to Redcliffe State High School to construct a new hall and administration building as part of a project worth $6.1 million in total.

Clontarf Beach State High School, Redcliffe State High School, Scarborough State School and Kippa-Ring State School will also receive funding under the School Infrastructure Enhancement Program.

In Health, $4.6 million is going to Redcliffe Hospital to refurbish the Day Procedure Unit, which will improve workflow at the hospital. This project is worth a total $6.6 million.

Another $7 million has also been allocated to Redcliffe Hospital to add more acute beds.

Visit www.qld.gov.au/smartsavings or phone 13 74 68 for more information.