Christian Democratic: Graham Freemantle

I have been campaigning on the fact that "I care for families, the community, lifestyle and environment".

I firmly believe that "strong families build strong communities".

If I am elected as the Member for Robertson, I make a firm commitment that I will endeavour to assist families in the Peninsula area who are struggling with overwhelming issues.

My top priority would be to tackle the issues with young people in the Peninsula area.

I will personally discuss any problems that young people may have.

I would make arrangements with the person and their families to provide any necessary assistance from local churches, community organisations and professionals.

Last week was National Homeless week.

Homelessness Australia has urged all political parties to sign up to the target of reducing homelessness by 50 per cent in 2020.

They recommend an increase in housing and financial assistance.

However, the homeless are generally disconnected from their community and family and this needs to be addressed.

CDP supports the Oasis program by the Salvation Army at Surry Hills which provides support, job training and provision of suitable accommodation.

I would have discussions with Oasis about extending their work to the Central Coast.

Reforms are necessary in mental health care.

Local churches currently provide personal care for people with mental illnesses.

I would discuss with local churches and community organisations for this personal care to be extended.

I would also investigate the provision of mental health services without the use of psychiatric drugs.

I would vigorously undertake aged care reform.

Areas of reform would include expansion of emergency respite provisions for carers.

The Carer's Payment is currently income-tested.

Legislation would be presented to Parliament for a minimum Carer's Payment of, say, $400 per fortnight.

Our taxes rise every year due to "bracket creep".

I would make representations to the new Treasurer that the Income Tax minimum threshold be increased from the current $6000 per annum to at least $10,000 per annum.

Reductions should be made in Individual Income Taxation Rates.

Current taxation rates of 45 per cent, 38 per cent, 30 per cent and 15 per cent would be reduced to 42 per cent, 35 per cent, 28 per cent and 14 per cent.

These measures would reduce the income tax of low income earners on the Central Coast.

There should be income splitting for single-income families.

As an example, if the husband earns $60,000 per annum then the husband and wife both be taxed on $30,000 per annum.

This reform provides each mother with a real choice on whether to provide additional income for the family or to stay at home to be a full-time mother for her children.

A four-lane link should be constructed by 2015 between the F3 Freeway and Central Coast Hwy at Erina with the route passing through Brady's Gully.

All environmental issues, particularly flora and fauna protection and noise would be thoroughly evaluated.

This would ease the major traffic problems at West Gosford and improve the access to the Peninsula area.

Graham Freemantle Christian Democratic Party