1 March 2011 | E&EO Mr Deputy Speaker on 20 August 2010, the day before the election, the Prime Minister categorically ruled out the introduction of a carbon tax. The front page of the Australian on that day quoted the Prime Minister as saying, “I rule out a carbon tax.” Mr Deputy Speaker, since the election circumstances have not changed for my constituents. My electorate comprises what is commonly known as the mortgage belt of outer Brisbane. Many of my constituents are struggling to make ends meet in the face of increasing cost of living pressures. The price of water has gone up, the price of electricity has gone up, the price of fuel has gone up, the cost of public transport has gone up. It is getting harder and harder for ordinary Australians to make ends meet. Ordinary Australians are having to work harder and harder to achieve the aspirations we have previously taken for granted. Owning your own … Continue reading →