All the recent data shows NSW is a hive of productivity and that’s only possible because this Government has done the hard work to get the state’s finances in order and open our economy for business. 

With our massive infrastructure program in full swing, record annual business investment, strong consumer spending, and unprecedented housing investment, there’s no doubt the sleeves are rolled up and we are all hard at work right across NSW. Since the Liberal-National Government came to office in 2011, 300,300 jobs have been added in NSW, accounting for almost 37 per cent of new jobs across Australia in that time. 

The ABS employment report follows data released earlier this week showing NSW consumers are the most optimistic in the nation, while business conditions in NSW are also the best in Australia

A reminder that those interested in voting in Local Land Services elections will need to enrol by 31 March.  The 2017 Local Land Services locally elected board member elections will be held at the end of May but ratepayers will need to enrol by 31 March to ensure they are sent ballot papers in time for voting. This will be the second local board election, where local representatives are elected by ratepayers for each of the 11 local boards. Three of the seven local board members in 10 regions and four in the Western region are elected by Local Land Services ratepayers. 

The remaining three and the Chair are Ministerially-appointed. 

Together the elected and appointed board members play an important role in setting the strategic direction of the organisation, promoting the services offered and communicating the priorities and concerns of customers to local boards. 

Information about the election process and an enrolment form will be posted with 2017 rates notices and can be downloaded from www.lls.nsw.gov.au. Nominations for Board positions must be in by 10 April and Board members will be announced by the end of June 2017

The Narrabri Youth Shack is running a great initiative for young people aged 17-25 in Narrabri. The ‘Work it Out’ training is designed to give you the head start you need to help you secure your dream job. It includes resume writing, interview skills, goal setting, self-esteem and motivation, improving communication skills, dressing for success and financial planning. The training is free and will be held over four days, April 8-11 at Panton Cottage, Narrabri. To apply email workitout2017@yahoo or call Helen on 0417 064 507. Spaces are limited so get in quick.

A big thumbs up to all those schools in the electorate that participated in the Day of Action against Bullying and Violence last week.  In Barwon we had schools in Bourke, Collarenebri, Coonamble, Lake Cargelligo, Walgett and Broken Hill taking a stand against bullying. Bullying in schools, the workplace and online is totally unacceptable and it’s important that we, as a community, stand up to bullying wherever we see it.

Starting the week in Broken Hill, I will make my way back across the Electorate to Narrabri by Tuesday.  If you would like to meet with me on any issues in Narrabri, please get in touch with my office.