Parliament is back in session for the year and I have had the privilege of representing you, the people of Petrie, on issues that are important to you.

Heading into March, I look forward to meeting more of you around the electorate and celebrating how wonderful Petrie is!

Now more than ever, it has become apparent that Labor Government’s across the country are not interested in addressing the cost of living crisis, but are more concerned with pleasing their union donors and playing identity politics. And now we see that they can’t be trusted as they break their promise with drastic changes to the already legislated Stage 3 Income Tax Cuts.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! I cannot believe it is that time of the year again. December is a time where we gather with those we cherish and love to celebrate not only Christmas, but all that 2023 has been. Throughout this holiday period, I am hoping that you will take some time to relax and reflect on 2023, how this year was special, and how you can make 2024 even better! In the spirit of togetherness, let us cherish those most dear to us, appreciate the diversity that enriches us, and share the goodwill that defines us.

In their first season, Dolphins memberships have passed some 30,000, a feat reached by only three other NRL sides. In 2023 alone, the Dolphins community and game development team have driven over 25,000 kilometres, made 241 school visits and covered more than 200 junior clubs throughout Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Sunshine Coast and Wide Bay and all-over Central Queensland.

I recently attended the Mueller College school fete in Rothwell. I asked locals to share with me what they love about Australia.

This year we once again have put our Petrie Biggest Survey out to the community, to get as much community feedback as possible, on the issues that most affect you. We’re grateful for all those who’ve completed our survey and want to continue to hear from those who are yet to complete it.

I had the chance to celebrate the contribution of 26 outstanding volunteers in Petrie, who go above and beyond and always show service over self, at my annual Volunteer Awards Morning Tea. This event is an opportunity to highlight the unsung, and often unseen heroes of in our community.

The Federal Budget is an opportunity for the Government of the day to demonstrate their priorities to the Australian people and outline an action plan to address some of the most pressing concerns for our country. Australians listened intently to the Treasurers 2023-24 Budget, in the hope that the promised cost-of-living relief would be delivered.

Delivery of the Bruce Highway Upgrades from Bracken Ridge to Pine River, including the Dohles Rocks Rd on/off ramps, Linkfield Rd Overpass and the Beams Rd Overpass, have been put at risk by the Albanese Labor Government’s decision to have a razor gang review funding for Queensland infrastructure projects.

Last week, the Federal Member for Petrie, the Hon. Luke Howarth celebrated the contributions of volunteers in the local community who go above and beyond in remarkable ways at Petrie’s 2023 Volunteer Awards Morning Tea.