In the News
Thursday, 27 October 2011
Clothes Line Incorporated from Castle Hill and the Lions Club of Crestwood recently received some well deserved funding from the Federal Government’s Volunteer Grants Initiative.
Federal Member for Mitchell, Alex Hawke MP, commended the two organisations for their selfless contributions to the community and said the Volunteer Grants initiative was just another example of the positive agenda that Coalition government’s can offer the Hills area.
“Volunteer Grants were first introduced by the Howard Government in recognition of the valuable contribution that volunteer groups make for the local community,” Mr Hawke said.” 2011 marks the tenth year of their operation.
“Clothes Line Incorporated received $4,750 dollars for the work that they do. They provide quality clothing and other essential items to homeless and disadvantaged community members. Volunteers operate a mobile clothing van to distribute goods in communities across the region, as well as working with other welfare groups to combine services and offer a comprehensive network of support for people in times of need. By building relationships of trust and respect, volunteers help to foster inclusive communities and a brighter future for disadvantaged individuals and families.
“The Lions Club of Crestwood received $1,298. The club is a valuable social resource, bringing together residents from all walks of life to work towards a more engaged and interactive community. Volunteers from the club donate their time to fundraise in support of local charities and deliver a range of valuable community services, including assistance for individuals and families affected by natural disaster. The club encourages a culture of social responsibility by enabling community members of all ages and backgrounds to collaborate for the welfare of individuals, families and disadvantaged groups.
“Volunteers make such a significant social and economic contribution to Australian society, contributing approximately $14.6 billion to the not-for-profit sector each year.
I am committed to supporting our army of volunteers, particularly those in the Hills area. This year’s volunteer grants will help them to undertake their selfless work in supporting local communities.
Thursday, 27 October 2011
A study of Medicare data by the University of New South Wales has revealed that callous cuts made by the Gillard government to the Medicare Safety Net had prevented couples in the Hills from starting a family through assisted reproductive treatments.
‘Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Health Minister Nicola Roxon stand condemned by these revelations,” Federal Member for Mitchell, Alex Hawke MP, said. “There are a lot of young couples looking to start a family in the Hills. The cuts Labor made to the Extended Medicare Safety Net put IVF treatment out of the financial reach of many couples.
“The Coalition, doctors and groups that represent those seeking IVF treatment all warned that this would be the case when they went to make the cuts in 2009. But in typical Labor fashion the government chose to not listen.
“Because of these actions we have seen a 13 per cent drop in the use of IVF technology in the year since Labor made this change. In real terms an estimated 1500 babies were not conceived and born thanks to Minister Roxon’s shameful short-sighted actions.
“Families in the Hills who are used to being let down by Labor will not be surprised to learn that this cruel decision represents yet another broken promise by Labor. In 2007 Labor promised they would not change the safety net, but two years later they capped payments on IVF and obstetric treatments. Working families cannot trust Labor.
“The Minister guaranteed that those seeking IVF treatments would not be worse off under the changes she made. The study confirms that this is once again, another broken promise.
“These changes are forcing some families in the Hills to abandon their hopes of having children because of the increased costs they would face amounting to thousands of dollars.
“Labor poor decisions making consistently makes life harder for families in our area. This financial barrier that the Minister has put in the way of young couples trying to start a family is another horrible example of this,” Alex Hawke concluded.
Thursday, 27 October 2011
Federal Member for Mitchell, Alex Hawke MP, has called for nominations from the local community for the National Volunteer Awards.
“These awards are fantastic as they recognise individuals who make an outstanding contribution to their local community through volunteering,” Mr Hawke said.
“Volunteering is an essential part of the Hills community. Volunteering connects us, strengthens our sense of belonging and creates positive relationships that build a stronger local community.
“Mitchell relies heavily on the contribution of volunteers – the unsung heroes who give up their free time to deliver services, in the areas of sport, emergency services and community welfare.
“2011 marks the tenth anniversary of the International Year of Volunteers. The theme for worldwide celebrations is ‘Inspire the Volunteer in You’ – recognising that everyone can be a volunteer and make a valuable contribution to their community.”
To mark this special year we have the opportunity to recognise those individuals who make an outstanding contribution to the Hills through volunteering.
The people of Mitchell will have the opportunity to nominate outstanding local volunteers and organisations in the following award categories:
1. MP’s Volunteer of the Year Award
2. Junior Volunteer Award (17 and under)
3. Young Volunteer Award (18-25 years)
4. Education Award
5. Environment Award
6. Long-term Commitment to Community Service Award
7. Business Volunteer Award
8. Innovation in Volunteering Award (for an organisation or individual)
9. New Organisation Award
10. Emergency Management Award
Anyone who is interested in finding out further information is advised to either contact my office or go to www.notforprofit.gov.au/news/2011-national-volunteer-awards-campaign.