THIS year has been challenging for us all, but we Australians are sensible and pragmatic – and we have collectively knuckled down to do what we needed to do, to get through a time of adversity.
Ku-ring-gai has led the country in vaccination rates; well done to everyone for rolling up your sleeves.
As we draw towards Christmas and the New Year, I know many of us are keen to be travelling abroad – to visit a loved one, to see friends, or perhaps just for a break.
While things are not yet back to normal, such travel is now easier. For example, if you are fully vaccinated, and an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you no longer need a travel exemption from Home Affairs to leave Australia. To check your eligibility, visit HomeAffairs.gov.au
Across our economy there are encouraging signs of recovery from the COVID downturn.
Australia’s economy recovered from last year’s recession to be stronger than prior to the pandemic – ahead of any advanced major economy in the world.
Wages are growing too, with a 2.2 per cent jump in the September quarter – the strongest since the pandemic began.
In the face of the difficulties that we’ve faced this year, the Morrison Government has worked to deliver outcomes for all Australians. This has recently included:
- A four-stage National Plan outlining our recovery from COVID
- Reductions in tax rates for small businesses
- $41 billion in direct economic support for our economy, through targeted support payments
- $1.1 billion invested to support women’s safety
- $2.3 billion to the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan
- $6.7 billion increase for Income Support for seniors
- $400 million in Disaster Recovery funding
- A new free-trade agreement with the UK
- A landmark security partnership between Australia, the UK and the US (AUKUS).
Now, we look forward to 2022, and the prospect of a better year ahead.
I wish you and your family a very safe and happy Christmas and a restful festive season.