Steve Martin | Politician
Steve Martin
Reviews
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25.01.2022 Applications for the latest round (7) of the Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program will open on 1 October with the guidelines now available giving applicants an early opportunity to prepare. The program has been hugely popular over recent years with more than $40 million spent on 209 programs since the Liberals and Nationals came to Government in 2013. On a personal note, it was great to secure the funding approval for $1.8mill for the reconstruction of the Flinders Island aerodrom...e, under Round 6. The 201819 Federal Budget allocated a further $28.3 million over four years to fund works designed to improve the safety and capacity of remote airstrips. Owners or operators of remote community airstrips in need of an upgrade are urged to make an application under Round 7 when applications open next week, closing 12th November. The Round 7 guidelines and other information is available from www.business.gov.au/assista/remote-airstrip-upgrade-program or by calling 13 28 46.
24.01.2022 In 201718, the gross value of agricultural production in Tasmania was $1.6 billion. Recently in Canberra - important to keep Tassie front and centre with Minister for Agriculture Bridget McKenzie. Similarly, on the radar of Minister for Water Resources, Rural Finance, Natural Disaster & Emergency Management David Littleproud.
24.01.2022 Great to see Nationals Deputy Leader Bridget McKenzie visit regional Tassie with TAS NAT Deanna Hitchinson. Thanks to Mayor Ben Shaw for the introductions. Ben Shaw
24.01.2022 The Communities Environment Program opens today helping local communities strengthen local environments. The program seeks to support community groupsincluding those that may not be able to compete in larger and more competitive grant programsto address local environmental priorities. The program also seeks to encourage the community to connect with their local natural environment and to build and strengthen local communities. Under the Program, the Government will provide... up to $150,000 per electorate in 2019-20 for up to 20 projects that enhance local environments. Grants will range from $2,500 to $20,000 per project. The grant amount will be up to 100 per cent of eligible project costs. Additional cash and/or in-kind contributions towards the project costs are strongly encouraged. To be eligible to apply an organisation must: - be nominated by a local federal Member of Parliament - have an Australian Business Number (ABN), and - be an incorporated entity type listed in the Programs Guidelines. The Programs Guidelines also make provision for unincorporated organisations to nominate a project sponsor (who meets these requirements) to act on their behalf so they can participate. Your project must be completed by 31 December 2020. https://www.business.gov.au//communities-environment-progr
23.01.2022 Next week Legacy Australia will be fundraising to support the families of veterans who have sacrificed their lives or health during their service. I encourage you to support this National Legacy Week so they can continue to support the families of veterans in Tasmania. The support that Legacy offer veterans families in our communities and across Australia is a crucial part of the veteran support network.... On 6 September Legacy Australia will be fundraising for Badge Day, the funds raised will continue to help around 60,000 beneficiaries across Australia with essential services. Legacy Australia have been supporting veterans families to carry on after the loss or injury of their loved one since 1923. The work they have done and the contribution they have made has positively impacted thousands of veterans and their families, and supported them through some of the toughest times. It is important we continue to thank and support organisations like Legacy and their volunteers, so this year I encourage you to dig deep and buy a badge on Badge Day. Legacy Week runs from Sunday 1 September - Saturday 7 September. For more information visit the Legacy website (www.legacy.com.au)
22.01.2022 The first of the fleet of new Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles (CRV) for the Australian Defence Force has just been unveiled. The 211 new Boxer 8x8 CRVs will be delivered by Rheinmetall Defence Australia under the $5 billion LAND 400 Phase 2 Mounted Combat Reconnaissance Capability project. The new vehicles, with their high levels of protection, firepower and mobility, will provide a world-class capability to the Australian Army.... They are part of the Governments $200 billion investment in our defence capability over the next decade to ensure the Australian Defence Force is equipped to succeed in our challenging strategic environment. This project presents an exciting opportunity for Australian industry to play a vital role in delivering leading-edge capability and technology to Australias Army. The Boxer project will create around 1,450 jobs nation-wide - a welcome boost for Defence capability and our sovereign defence industry. The vehicles will be able to undertake a range of missions from regional stability and peacekeeping through to high-threat operations, and will provide improved safety to Australian soldiers on deployment and on exercises around the world. Over the 30-year life of the vehicles, Australian industry will secure $10.2 billion of the total investment in acquiring and maintaining the fleet. Twelve small businesses across Australia have contributed to the production of this first Boxer, ensuring the delivery of these vehicles is a national enterprise. The first 25 vehicles will be assembled in Germany and delivered to Australia as part of technology transfer activities to familiarise Australian workers and suppliers on the specific manufacturing techniques of these vehicles. The remaining vehicles will be assembled at Rheinmetalls Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence (MILVEHCOE) facility in Redbank, near Ipswich, using companies located across Australia.
21.01.2022 Another great aspect of the Derwent Valley. Ben Shaw
20.01.2022 CHEAPER MEDICINE is on the way for more than 500,000 patients from October 1, with price reductions for common scripts and new medicines added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), in some cases saving over $100,000 per patient. Medicines to treat lung cancer, lymphoblastic and acute leukaemia, and nausea associated with chemotherapy will now be available to patients on the PBS from tomorrow for just $40.30 per script, or $6.50 with a concession card. A further $390 m...Continue reading
20.01.2022 Recently attended the Nationals conference at Inverell in NSW. Enjoyed being part of the Federal Panel, as well as, with Fiona Nash, Wacka Williams & Matt Canavan.
20.01.2022 I firmly believe that Tassie should have and can have its own AFL team, but the AFL should make that commitment now and provide the same support & investment as they did for Gold Coast Suns (GCS) & Greater Western Sydney (GWS). In 2008, the AFL secured permission from its 16 clubs to initiate both those teams, develop plans, invest millions of dollars and gain market share in non-AFL states, around the same time, saying that Tassie should have its own team, but doing nothing.... In 2011 GCS entered the AFL competition, then in 2012 GWS. Instead of maybes, Tasmania should be afforded the same level of commitment. Its not just about players, its also about aspiration, pride, sense of belonging and building off field opportunities, such as, employing locals in sports medicine, fitness, diet, psychology, event management, administration and so on, potentially rippling out to all levels of sport in Tasmania. If the AFL does not provide such equity, then we should tell them to bugger off, then instead, encourage local, state and federal governments to invest in programs and projects for other sports such as soccer, basketball, cricket, tennis, athletics, cycling, golf, netball and so on that fully support our young and national pathways, but do not receive equitable funding. See more
19.01.2022 Niels was a good bloke, a great ambassador for Don River Railway and for Devonport. I had the privilege of working with Neils as Devonport Mayor and more recently to secure a federal Community Development Grant for DRR of $200,000. He will be sadly missed.
19.01.2022 Great to see National's Deputy Leader Bridget McKenzie visit regional Tassie with TAS NAT Deanna Hitchinson. Thanks to Mayor Ben Shaw for the introductions. Ben Shaw
18.01.2022 Recent trip to Canberra speaking with Minister for Resources Matt Canavan and Minister for Veterans & Defence Personnel Darren Chester - keeping Tassie on their radar.
18.01.2022 The age of infrastructure is upon us! Were investing in major infrastructure projects in every state and territory and will continue to deliver the infrastructure Australians need, expect, demand and most importantly deserve.
17.01.2022 Was privileged to present to the Federal Women's Council (WFC) at Rutherglen (TAS), the story of the Nationals in Tassie and the way forward. Seen here with L-R Senator Susan McDonald, my wife Susanne, National's Deputy Leader & Minister for Agriculture Bridget McKenzie and President of the Federal Management Committee Larry Anthony The WFC considers policy issues, undertakes research and presents motions to Federal Conference and Council, giving greater participation for women in the democratic decision-making process. Senator Bridget McKenzie Tasmanian Nationals
17.01.2022 Local community groups are encouraged to apply for new swimming grants to enable or improve opportunities for people with disabilities and from diverse backgrounds to enjoy this great Aussie past-time. Working in partnership with Swimming Australia, the Community Swimming Grants Program allows organisations the opportunity to apply for grants of up to $10,000. Swimming is a big part of our way of life in Tassie and is a great way to stay active and healthy at any age.... These new Community Swimming Grants provide a great opportunity for local community groups to get funding to share the love of swimming with more people. This initiative has aimed the aim to make swimming as accessible as possible so more Australians could benefit from sport and physical activity. Grants may be used to subsidise the costs associated with delivering swimming and aquatic activities such as entry fees, lane hire or membership fees. For more information and to apply for Swimming Australias Community Swimming Grants Program, go to www.swimming.org.au/community-swimming-grants. Who can apply for funding? Organisations with the capability to provide or facilitate the provision of swimming and aquatics activities (including but not limited to learn to swim, water safety, aquatics fitness or play and competitive swimming programs and activities). Eligible organisations may include: Learn to swim providers Aqua fitness providers Aquatics facilities Swim Clubs Other aquatics sport clubs (e.g. Water Polo Clubs etc.) Community organisations Charity organisations Councils Schools Universities State or Territory Sport Organisations
16.01.2022 An absolute privilege to stand with National Party legends L-R Nigel Scullion, Fiona Nash, John "Wacka" Williams and Luke Hartsuyker recognised for their service to rural & regional Australia. A truly humbling experience amongst giants.
15.01.2022 Drought affected communities will have greater access to drought assistance, thanks to a Liberal-National Government package worth nearly $100 million. As we know drought affects farms, farming families & their communities; it also affects food prices down the line. The Coalition Government is responding to the ongoing drought with direct and immediate support to help farming families and communities.... $33.4 million had been made available through the Drought Community Support Initiative to provide immediate financial assistance to eligible households in hardship. Farming households can receive up to $3,000 to spend in their local communities to cover urgent bills such as food, petrol and utilities, taking stress off families and boosting the local economy. The effects of the drought are not just felt on the farm regional communities and businesses suffer as people spend less in towns. The Coalition Government will work with the Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul Society to make sure this money hits the ground quickly and gets to those most in need. Under the Drought Communities Programme Extension another 13 councils will have access to up to $1 million each to complete local infrastructure and drought-relief projects. This will boost the economy, create jobs, engage local businesses and provide a long-lasting benefit to the community and the rural industries it depends on. The government will also simplify Farm Household Allowance applications. The changes will remove business income reconciliation, change the time limit on payment to four years in every ten, simplify the assets test and recognise agistment. These changes will make FHA quicker and easier to access. The government also announced an injection of $740,000 of contingency funding to five Rural Financial Counselling Service providers who are experiencing pressure from increased demand. For more information and to apply for assistance visithttp://www.agriculture.gov.au/ag-farm-food/drought or call 1800 900 090.Drought assistance MP pack 20190926
14.01.2022 Had secured some great projects for Tassie. Recently following up with Leader of the NATS, Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack MP and Minister for Local Government & Decentralisation Mark Coulton MP.
14.01.2022 https://www.education.gov.au/local-schools-community-fund Opportunity for all Tasmanian schools - the Local Schools Community Fund, provides up to $200,000 for each federal electorate. The Fund will benefit students and assist schools to meet their priorities through the contribution of funding for small scale projects and their associated costs. Submissions close 30th September 2019 Good Luck!
12.01.2022 $125.27MILL INVESTMENT IN TASSIE WATER INFRASTRUCTURE As part of our plan to support farmers and regional communities manage through drought, we are delivering water infrastructure and will continue to get shovels in the ground on vital projects. - Tasmanian Irrigation Trance 3 (phase 1) funding up to $100 million...Continue reading
12.01.2022 Tomorrow, Friday 2nd August is Australian Primary Principals Day and please be encouraged to recognise and thank your Principal tomorrow - perhaps with a Tassie apple. In working with Principals, it is easy to see their passion and dedication for students education and the contribution they make to our communities. There are 228 primary and combined schools in Tasmania. A big and sincere thank you to them all.
12.01.2022 Applications for the next assessment period for the Local Sporting Champions program. To be considered applications must be in by 30 September, 2019. The Local Sporting Champions program provides financial assistance to aspiring young athletes, coaches and officials between the ages of 12-18 attending eligible state, national or international sporting championships. Local Sporting Champions continues to support more aspiring young sportspeople than ever before, please be enc...ouraged to apply. For more information on Local Sporting Champions grants, including the eligibility criteria and to apply, visit www.sportaus.gov.au/lsc
12.01.2022 Female coaches, officials and administrators please be encouraged to progress your leadership development by applying for the Australian Governments 2020 Women Leaders in Sport program. The Women Leaders in Sport program has provided professional development to more than 24,000 women since its inception in 2002 and applications for the 2020 program close 23 September 2019. The Women Leaders in Sport program is managed by Sport Australia in partnership with the Department of ...the Prime Minister and Cabinets Office for Women. The Women Leaders in Sport program comprises Leadership Workshops for individuals and organisations, as well as development grants of up to $3,000 for individuals, and up to $20,000 for organisations. For more information on eligibility and how to apply for the Women Leaders in Sport program, go online to sportaus.gov.au/grants_and_funding/women_leaders_in_sport
10.01.2022 Show societies in Tasmania are encouraged to apply for Australian Government Regional Agricultural Show Development Grants Program (AgShows) funding to upgrade, maintain, buy or build new showground infrastructure and attractions. Applications were now open for the $20 million AgShows program. Eligible local show societies and state and territory agricultural show peak bodies could receive grants of up to $500,000 under the AgShows program.... Most of the 580 agricultural shows held annually in Australia are regionally based and they bring communities closer together especially in times of drought and other hardships. Local councils and showground owners are encouraged to support the electorates regional agricultural show societies in their applications for grants. The $20 million AgShows investment will reinvigorate showgrounds, helping to boost regional communities, increase local employment and purchases from local businesses. AgShows is about ensuring our communities can continue staging their local showsand other events such as pony clubs and farmers marketsfor many years to come. Applications open today (4 October) and close 13 December 2019, with successful applicants expected to be announced in the first half of 2020. For more details and to apply visit GrantConnect at www.grants.gov.au
08.01.2022 Celebrating the International Day of Older Persons. People who built our country, contribute to our communities and sustain our families. RESPECT is certainly a word and effort that immediately comes to mind. https://www.un.org/en/events/olderpersonsday/
07.01.2022 https://www.regional.gov.au//pro/stronger-communities.aspx Grant applications for Round 5 of the Stronger Communities Programme is set to open om Monday 5th August. The funding provides grants of between $2,500 and $20,000 to community organisations and local governments for small capital projects that deliver social benefits for local communities. Round Five is $22.65 million, with funding of up to $150,000 available for each electorate. A maximum of 20 projects will be f...unded in each electorate, with successful projects receiving a grant between $2,500 and $20,000. Get ready, provide as much information as possible including quotes - make it easy for the "deciders". GOOD LUCK Steve See more
07.01.2022 Deputy Leader National Party, Minister for Agriculture Bridget McKenzie will be vising New Norfolks Bush Inn 5pm - 7pm on Saturday night 5th October for "Pollies in the Pub". Why not call in and say hi and have a beer with the Minister. Senator Bridget McKenzie Ben Shaw Bush Inn
07.01.2022 Recently had the privilege of opening the 2019/20 bowling season for the Westbury & Railton Bowls Clubs. Both are great country bowls clubs, warm and welcoming. Not sure of style and was a bit heavy handed in sending down the 1st bowl of the season .
06.01.2022 Deputy Leader National Party, Minister for Agriculture Bridget McKenzie will be vising New Norfolk's Bush Inn 5pm - 7pm on Saturday night 5th October for "Pollies in the Pub". Why not call in and say hi and have a beer with the Minister. Senator Bridget McKenzie Ben Shaw Bush Inn
05.01.2022 Was privileged to present to the Federal Womens Council (WFC) at Rutherglen (TAS), the story of the Nationals in Tassie and the way forward. Seen here with L-R Senator Susan McDonald, my wife Susanne, Nationals Deputy Leader & Minister for Agriculture Bridget McKenzie and President of the Federal Management Committee Larry Anthony The WFC considers policy issues, undertakes research and presents motions to Federal Conference and Council, giving greater participation for women in the democratic decision-making process. Senator Bridget McKenzie Tasmanian Nationals
05.01.2022 Here with Agricultural Minister Senator Bridget McKenzie , Bridget Archer MP and the Bourkes from Sheffield Honey Farm. Minister McKenzie will shortly be promoting Tassie honey in Korea as part of a delegation to open new export markets.
04.01.2022 REGIONAL AIRPORTS PROGRAM TAKES OFF Regional Airport owners and operators will soon be able to apply for a share in $100 million of funding for safety upgrades as part of the Federal Liberal and Nationals Governments new Regional Airports Program. The guidelines are now available, giving airport owners and operators more information on their eligibility for the program. ... For many regional communities, the local airport provides an essential link to the rest of Australia, Mr McCormack said. Thats why weve committed $100 million over four years from 201920 to 202223 to help owners of regional airports right across Australia deliver safer runways, taxiways and other safety upgrades such as new fencing or safety equipment. This funding is about backing people living in rural and regional Australia, whether that be through job creation, access to more reliable transport or better service delivery. The Regional Airports Program will make sure regional airports meet the needs of communities and local industry now and into the future. Owners and operators of any regional airport who can identify a real need for an upgrade are urged to make an application under Round 1 when they open on 24 October 2019. Applications for Round 1 will remain open until 12 December 2019 to provide communities with the time needed to make strong proposals. The guidelines and other information is available from www.business.gov.au/assistance/regional-airports-program or by calling 13 28 46.
03.01.2022 Great to catch up with Minister for Agriculture & Deputy Leader of the National Party Senator Bridget McKenzie meeting here last week with L-R @Ian Sauer (Vice Chair TFGA), myself, @Bridget McKenzie, Bridget Archer (Member for Bass) and @Marcus McShane (President TFGA). The National Party are great supporters of farmers, their families and communities throughout the nation
02.01.2022 A new start with a new Tasmanian National team. L-R Mandy Cooper (Comm), Susanne Martin (Treas), Carl Cooper (Vice), Steve Martin (Chair), Andrew Roberts (Sec), Rhett McKenzie-Edwards (Mship) & Deanna Hutchinson (Comm) - absent Brent Daire (Vice)
02.01.2022 Was great to secure a visit from the Acting Prime Minister Michael McCormack last week, meeting with the Cradle Coast Authority, local Mayors, General Managers and local businesses. L-R Sid Sidebottom (Chair CCA); Latrobe Mayor Peter Freshney (Deputy Rep CCA); Central Coast Mayor Jan Bonde (Chief Rep CCA); Michael McCormack Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Infrastructure, Leader of the National Party; CCA CEO Daryl Connelly; and Chair TAS Nationals Steve Martin
02.01.2022 National Deputy Leader, Minister for Agriculture Bridget McKenzie in Korea promoting Tasmanian RAW Honey & Cradle Mountain Honey from Sheffield Honey Farm with Korean Ambassador James. Senator Bridget McKenzie The Sheffield Honey Company Australian Honey Products Tasmanian Nationals
01.01.2022 My wife Susanne & I commenced this charity to combat Tasmanias low literacy skills in providing a book for every new born in Tasmania. There is approx 6000 babies born annually in Tasmania and we are encouraging parents to read out loud from day one. Please share
