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FRE
Your independent local newspaper
June 11, 2014
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Ph: 4325 7369
Issue 84
‘Centre of Excellence’ for Gosford T
he Treasurer Hon Joe Hockey has announced that Gosford will be home to a ‘Centre of Excellence’ when a new purpose-built Commonwealth Agency is built.
Mr Hockey made the statement in Parliament, following a question from Federal Member for Robertson Lucy Wicks. “The Australian Taxation Office and a number of other government agencies are employing more than 600 people in Gosford,” Mr Hockey said. “We are able to announce a new centre of excellence in Gosford on the Central Coast of NSW because we are absolutely committed to getting more jobs into more regional areas, as well as importantly helping to stimulate economic growth.”
Ms Wicks said the new jobs for the region, in a purpose-built facility, is some of the most important news the Central Coast has received in years. “We have doubled our commitment from our Growth Plan for the Central Coast, from 300 to 600 jobs,” Mrs Wicks said. “This is a game-changer for the Central Coast. “This is a breakthrough in terms of boosting investment, driving more job opportunities, and building a strong, positive future for the Coast. “It’s also an immediate boost for local construction
industry too because it will be a purpose-built facility. “Local businesses have been telling me how these jobs will drive even more activity to local cafes, local restaurants and local businesses, and provide an important link to tertiary training institutions in our region. “The sorts of jobs that may be available could potentially include accounting, information technology, professional services, legal and other opportunities.” Media release, 6 Jun 2014 Tim Sowden, office of Lucy Wicks MP
Member for Robertson Ms Lucy Wicks with Treasurer Joe Hockey
General rates to rise by 2.3% osford Council has agreed to increase its general rates by 2.3% from July 1 this year, in line with the current NSW Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal determination.
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Other special rates will also be levied to maintain waste management services, and for investment in a number of beach safety, economic and tourism initiatives. The prices for water,
sewerage and stormwater services will also change from July 1, in line with the latest NSW Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal determination. More information about the changes to rates, fees
and charges for 2014/15 will be provided to the community over the coming months. Gosford Council, ENV.38, 27 May 2014
Hartcher undecided about recontesting ember for Terrigal Mr Chris Hartcher has said he will not be making any decisions about the forthcoming State election until after the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) inquiry has been concluded.
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Member for Wyong Darren Webber and Member for The Entrance Chris Spence have chosen not to recontest the next State Election in March 2015 due to the final report into Operation Spicer not being handed down until December this year. “The report not being completed until December leaves the position for recontesting the next
election for me impossible,” said Mr Spence. “Therefore it is in the best interests of the Liberal Party and the constituents of The Entrance that I stand aside and let the Party get on with pre-selection,” Mr Spence said. Mr Hartcher said he respects and understands the decision of his Central Coast colleagues. “While they have each
been excused from further attendance at the ICAC inquiry, I have not. “I will not be making any further comment,” said Mr Hartcher. Media statement, 10 Jun 2014 Chris Hartcher, Member for Terrigal Media statement, 10 Jun 2014 Laurie Alexander, office of Chris Spence MP