NATURAL EVENTS
Dear editor,
Scientific luminaries say that it’s a ‘1 in 100’ year event yet record floods, heatwaves and bushfires have happened many times over the past ten years. Which 100 years are they talking about? Just asking for confused friends.
Margaret Wilkie,
Peregian Beach.
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DRIVING WITH PHONES
Dear editor,
Queensland licensed drivers are aware of government legislation introduced on 1 July 2023, banning drivers from handling mobile phones while driving, and requiring seatbelt wearing for all vehicle passengers. Seat belts must also be worn appropriately. The high cost of the fine, when caught is $1,161, along with four demerit points – legitimate deterrents to those who consider challenging the law or failing to comply.
However, not everyone is pleased to be caught. Not everyone thinks the law is fair. Not everyone wants to belt up, or keep their hands free of any gadgets, be it mobile phones or GPS. These laws are for the benefit of those drivers and cars at the receiving end of reckless and selfish drivers, who feel entitled to do what they please in and with their own cars. Arrogant and with a sense of entitlement, they feel they are above the law. They are also driving a vehicle which is a weapon of mass destruction, in the hands of those who toy with the lives of others on our roads.
No one is above the law. Lawlessness undermines safety and security in our society. The Law can’t protect the lawless from stupidity!
E. Rowe,
Marcoola.
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TAX CUTS
Dear editor,
Former Prime Minister Paul Keating once said, “Leadership is about having the courage to make tough decisions, even if they are unpopular.”
The Albanese Labor government has made the tough decision to change the stage three tax cuts so they will be fairer for all Australian taxpayers.
Circumstances have changed since 2019 when they were proposed by the Morrison government. International economic headwinds have impacted our economy, the Ukraine/Russian War, the COVID19 pandemic, supply chain disruption, global inflationary pressures and more.
After consulting the Treasury, Treasurer Jim Chalmers has put on the table a way to reform our tax system to make it fairer and more equitable.
Those earning over $150,000 will receive a smaller tax cut. However, workers earning under $150,000 will benefit, and those earning less than $45,000, who previously were going to miss out altogether, will now also benefit from the overhaul. All taxpayers will get a tax cut.
Blinded by their confected outrage, the opposition are calling it a broken promise, conveniently forgetting their own many broken promises.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the changes are in response to the economic conditions and cost of living pressures. Times have changed, people are hurting and need more help.
Who can really object to these justifiable and reasonable changes?
Robyn Deane,
Bli Bli.
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