Mr DUNHAM - 2002-08-21
My question is on a similar theme. In last year’s mini-budget, it shows grants and subsidies to be an allocation of $84m, in Budget Paper No 2 at page 108. I am interested that the minister has said that the same groups will now get $64m. I am pleased that Jane Alley and others have applauded this budget, but I would like the minister to explain why there has been a $20m cut from the mini-budget to the current budget for the non-government sector?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, there has been no cut whatsoever to the non-government sector. There has been a significant increase - an increase of $6m. This includes $1.45m of indexation; $2.5m in new dollars, which covers the whole sector; and $1.6m for specific projects carried over from the previous financial year, including capital for child-care facilities.
I just cannot believe that the member opposite would even raise such an issue. When they were in government, they completely ignored the non-government sector. The member for Drysdale refused to go to an election forum looking at funding on this sector. We have consistently consulted with the non-government sector. They have come to us, and said: ‘We are in dire straits because we have not received extra funding for many years’. Here we are, increasing this budget significantly, and all they can do is whinge and whine.
This is an excellent budget in all areas, including the non-government sector. I can assure you the Northern Territory Council of Social Services, and all those organisations which will be receiving this money, are very happy.
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, there has been no cut whatsoever to the non-government sector. There has been a significant increase - an increase of $6m. This includes $1.45m of indexation; $2.5m in new dollars, which covers the whole sector; and $1.6m for specific projects carried over from the previous financial year, including capital for child-care facilities.
I just cannot believe that the member opposite would even raise such an issue. When they were in government, they completely ignored the non-government sector. The member for Drysdale refused to go to an election forum looking at funding on this sector. We have consistently consulted with the non-government sector. They have come to us, and said: ‘We are in dire straits because we have not received extra funding for many years’. Here we are, increasing this budget significantly, and all they can do is whinge and whine.
This is an excellent budget in all areas, including the non-government sector. I can assure you the Northern Territory Council of Social Services, and all those organisations which will be receiving this money, are very happy.
Last updated: 09 Aug 2016