The Latest Groom News!
With three weeks in Canberra this past month, I've been busy listening and working for you - ensuring that your voices are heard and your concerns addressed.
Our community has had some massive wins!👇
1. Parliament House Showcase
In a celebration of Australian creativity and entrepreneurship, the Parliament House National Showcase is highlighting the nation's top Australian made products.
It's fantastic to see our local businesses front and centre at this month's feature, securing two of only nine spots available - an amazing achievement!
Congratulations to Kylie Hollonds' with her Anzac Biscuits from GF Oats, and Petria Cumner and Ben Johnson with their Original Bottle Harnesses from Stirling and Truffles!
We have a thriving small business community here in Groom, and I’m thrilled to see this being recognised nationally.
Photos: Tim Ngo
2. Crime Forum & Coalition Commitment
On Wednesday 21st February, we held a Crime Forum at the Newtown Hall. Approximately 100 local residents attended to have their say, tell us their stories, and provide new ideas for solutions on crime.
The message was clear: you are fed up.
I am very pleased the Federal LNP has adopted our local proposal to tackle the scourge of ‘performance crimes’, which undermines the work of our police.
I will keep fighting for stronger laws, greater enforcement, and real action to reduce crime. Please keep sharing your concerns and ideas.
3. BlueCare Upgrade
Fantastic to pop in and see refurbishments almost completed at BlueCare in Middle Ridge.
$8.9 million dollars was invested in these upgrades under the former Coalition government, to deliver better health and aged care services in our region.
Only four months to go until these works are done - it's so exciting to see this project come to life!
4. Visit from Shadow Minister Jason Wood
It was fantastic to welcome Jason Wood, Shadow Minister for Community Safety, Migrant Services, and Multicultural Affairs to Groom, as he engaged with our vibrant local community organisations to listen and discuss the various programs that are being delivered, and some of the challenges being faced.
Our region is so lucky to have the support of groups like CatholicCare, Mercy Community Centre, and our multicultural leaders.
5. Industrial Relations Forum
The Albanese Government’s new industrial relations laws will impact 2.5 million Australian businesses and their employees across Australia.
Recognising the profound implications of these reforms - including increasing costs, complexity and red tape - we were joined by senior industry leaders to discuss their impacts, on businesses in our community.
Thank you to all of the amazing business owners who came along to gain a deeper understanding of these legislative changes and asked questions of our experts.
6. Railway Parklands
Toowoomba, like the rest of Australia, has been facing a housing crisis.
We've had one solution on the table now for over two years, but if we don't act on it we are at risk of losing that funding.
We need to see action on Railway Parklands.
In Government, I secured funding to get this project off the ground and I’ll continue to fight to see it delivered.
7. Bringing the office to you!
Thank you to everyone who stopped for a chat at my mobile office at Westridge Shopping Centre!
If you missed me, please let me know what issues are important to you at https://www.garthhamilton.com.au/get-in-touch/survey/, I am always keen to hear your thoughts.
I will keep on listening and working for our community, and continue to advocate for our region in Canberra.
As always, please let me know if I can assist you with anything.
Kind regards,
Garth Hamilton MP
Federal Member for Groom
