Member for Castle Hill – Hon Ray Williams MP
THE STRONG FINANCIAL CONDITION OF NSW
In 2011 NSW had over $30 billion dollars in net state debt and an estimated infrastructure backlog valued at $60 billion. We were the worst performing state in Australia at the time with the highest unemployment. Since that time our NSW Government has utilized a unique funding model of recycling state owned assets and reinvesting proceeds into future infrastructure such as new metro rail lines, major motorways, new hospitals and schools to name a few. In further good news, several of these assets have been partially leased, thereby our grandchildren will own them outright in the future and we still achieve half the dividends in the meantime. It’s a bit like leasing half the old farm and getting a windfall profit from the lease, while at the same time receiving half the rent. Record funds for NSW have been realised through this innovative process which is now gaining world acclaim. However by investing proceeds into high-value critical infrastructure, our actual net worth (state owned assets) has significantly increased. We now own more assets now than ever before and the value of those assets has reached a quarter of a trillion dollars ($250 billion). While we immediately recognise when the value of our home increases, seldom do we realise the significant value of our states assets, which we all proudly own. Using our states assets in this way, improves the quality of life for each and every person in NSW.
FAMILIES TO BENEFIT FROM ACTIVE KIDS REBATE
The Active Kids Rebate announced in the 2017/18 Budget means savings for thousands of households across Castle Hill.
Families will be able to claim up to $100 per school child, per calendar year from 1 January 2018 for after-school, weekend and school holiday sport and active recreation activities.
Regardless if your active child plays sport such as netball, football or basketball; swimming, gymnastic or athletics etc; this is a huge boost to families in the local area.
Parents will be able to register online and can take a sports voucher to a registered sports club or provider to receive their rebate.
More details on the NSW Office of Sport website https://sport.nsw. gov.au/.
GRANTS OPEN FOR COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS
Local not-for-profit groups can apply for funding through the 2017 Community Building Partnership (CBP) program for infrastructure projects that deliver positive social, environmental and recreational outcomes.
The grants can pay for much-needed improvements to local facilities.
If your organisation needs some extra funding for the building, refurbishment or enhancement of facilities, then I encourage you to take the time to carefully prepare your application.
Applications open Monday 26 June and close on Monday 9 August.
For more information, visit: www.communitybuildingpartnership. nsw.gov.au
CONGRATULATIONS
Dr Margery Lane – 100th Birthday
Kenneth & Narelle Long – 50th Wedding Anniversary
