Federal Member for Hinkler, Keith Pitt has welcomed an inquiry into child care and early childhood learning across Australia.

Mr Pitt said the Productivity Commission inquiry, as promised by the Coalition, would examine ways to make the child care system more flexible, affordable and accessible.

“This inquiry is the first public examination of its type since the 1990s,” Mr Pitt said.

“Hinkler families deserve quality care and early learning at a price they can afford.”

The Productivity Commission will conduct public hearings and invite submissions, and report back by the end of October 2014.

Further details are available at www.pc.gov.au/projects/inquiry/childcare  

Member for Hinkler, Keith Pitt is encouraging local residents who wish to attend Anzac Day centenary commemorations in Gallipoli to apply for the official ballot.

Mr Pitt said a fair, open and transparent ballot was being held to enable 8,000 Australians to safely and comfortably attend 100th anniversary commemorations in 2015.

“Of those, 2000 places will be provided to veterans, direct descendants of the fallen and secondary school students,” Mr Pitt said.

“Widows of Australian First World War veterans do not need to apply for the ballot, as they will be contacted directly by the Australian Government.

“Hinkler residents can apply to be among the 6000 Australians (3000 double passes) who visit Gallipoli on April 25, 2015.”

Mr Pitt said the ballot would remain open until January 31 next year.

Applicants will be notified of the outcome by March.

To apply online visit www.gallipoli2015.dva.gov.au or telephone Ticketek on 1300 364 002 to request a paper application form.

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt is encouraging local residents to support Australia’s Defence personnel and their families by sending them a message of thanks in the lead up to Christmas.

“As Christmas approaches – my first as the Member for Hinkler – I am mindful there are many ADF families who will spend this Christmas without their loved ones,” Mr Pitt said.

“Christmas is an important time for all families, and that’s why it is so incredibly important that we show our support to those service men and women who make significant personal sacrifices while helping secure the interests of all Australians.

“On behalf of my family, I would like to thank the thousands of Australians who have chosen to serve this great Nation.

“We wish them all a safe and enjoyable Christmas,  both here and abroad.”

You can send a message of support to the troops by emailing supportthetroops@defence.gov.au

You can also help ADF families whose loved ones have died or been injured in the line of duty by making a donation at www.legacy.com.au or www.soldieron.org.au  

November 18, 2013

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt has spoken is support of a motion, welcoming the Australian Government’s contribution to the rescue and recovery effort in the Philippines.

“ABS data shows more than 700 Hinkler residents were born in the Philippines, making up the fifth largest migrant group in the electorate,” Mr Pitt said.

“About 171,000 Australians were born in the Philippines.

“I assure Hinkler’s Filipino-Australian community that the Australian Government will remain in close dialogue with the Philippines Government, to provide further assistance when and where it’s needed.

“The people of the Philippines have a long, hard road ahead of them.
“I offer them my heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies for all they have lost.

“I speak on behalf of the people of Hinkler when I say our thoughts and prayers are with them.”