YOUR VIEWS

P0 Box 1, Southport 4215 editorial@goldcoast.com.au facebook.com/goldcoastbulletin WHEN Treasurer Scott Morrison hands down the Budget tomorrow, we will all be keen to know what it means for the taxes we pay and the government programs we use.

While those questions might tell us whether we’ll be better off or worse off in the short term, they fail to consider whether it helps Australia become more economically competitive.

That’s why we need some new questions to judge the Budget.

First, does it deliver a positive return on investment?

Not all spending is equal. There’s a big difference between the things we need and the things we want. We need to make sure spending builds the economy’s capacity to create jobs and improve living standards.

Second, does it make government programs more sustainable?

With 35 per cent of federal spending going to social security and welfare, and a further 16 per cent going to health, making sure money is well spent can make a big difference to affordability.

Third, could a program be delivered more efficiently by the private sector?

In education, health and aged care, many private sector providers could deliver public services, which can improve the experience for users and ensure better value for money.

Fourth, will a decision lead to more or less red tape?

The Government says it has saved $4.8 billion in red-tape compliance costs over the past four years. This is welcome, and it is important that new initiatives do not create red tape in its place.

Fifth, what legacy will the program leave for future generations?

To make sure our living standards continue to improve, Australia needs to become more competitive. This requires national finances on a credible path to surplus, a tax system that encourages hard work and investment, and a safety net that helps people.

JAMES PEARSON, CEO OF THE AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

AUSTRALIA’S volunteers are unsung heroes and I’m pleased to say that there are two events this week that celebrate their contribution to Queensland and its communities.

Today, World Red Cross Day, coincides with the start of National Volunteer Week and so we’re using this opportunity to thank all the volunteers who make our society stronger.

It might be by donating blood, reaching out to an older person who lives alone, or spending a day of their week helping run a Red Cross shop.

It particularly comes to light during a crisis. I’ve been overwhelmed by how willing people have been to give their time to help people whose lives were turned upside down by Cyclone Debbie.

When the tragedy at Dreamworld happened last year, our volunteers stood with mourners at the memorial, providing emotional support. Thankfully, it is not just during a disaster when we see the best come out in people.

LEISA BOURNE, DIRECTOR, RED CROSS IN QUEENSLAND