The latest piece by Vince (AKA Drunk Guy)

Queensland’s government debt bill is said to be costing over $10 million a day in interest payments ever since this state Labor government lost its AAA rating. So far, all of the other states have managed to retain theirs even though some are in dire financial predicaments. It seems that no money is safe from the clutches of Bligh.

In a recent move, Bligh has raided $10 million from the coffers of a community benefit fund to support its floundering solar rebate scheme, depriving many charities of much-needed grant money. The move mandates that $3.3 million each year be diverted into the solar rebate scheme.

Mary Philip, who has been on the Community Benefit Committee for 10 years, has resigned in protest at this interference. The Community Benefit Committee manages the fund, which delivered over $35 million from gambling revenue to charities and not-for-profit community organisations last year.

It is also reported that other members of the committee are intending to resign when their time for renewal comes up in August. There are concerns that this approach by the state government could set a precedent for future similar interventions, with more money being diverted away from not for profit community groups like , surf life saving clubs, environmental groups, shelters, kindergartens, scouting groups, churches and disability groups.

Community Benefit Committee member Richard Bowley said the committee was “very unhappy” with the government interference and lack of consultation.” We feel this is an intrusion, getting a directive from the Premier’s Department and then the Minister to redirect funds,” Mr Bowley said.
Bligh has accepted Ms Philip’s resignation and attempted to excuse the interference by claiming that community groups will benefit from solar.

While it’s commendable to add the solar hot water and /or power to the list of items that can be allowable as items that can be applied for funding for, and Anna Bligh has said that any money not applied for solar will still be available for other purposes that fit the criteria, some groups will be at a disadvantage. Although Bligh claims the $10 million over 3 years will have very little impact on community groups across Queensland, the groups that are incorporated and also own property will be able to make claims at the expense of smaller groups who cannot as they own no property.

The government expects that up to $3.3 million a year will be directed to solar applications and would save Queensland charities up to $245,000 collectively in electricity costs.

Bligh also said “Asking the committee to give priority to particular applications is consistent with the Act and not unusual,” she said. “Indeed, it was done in relation to Cyclone Larry, the introduction of Prep year, equine influenza and projects in rural and regional Queensland.”

There is a big difference between asking for funds to be directed to assist those in need due to hardship, and simply diverting much needed funds to prop up a government initiative which may be at risk of falling short. I’m sure this is not the purpose of the Gambling community benefit fund.

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