With the launch of the new Get out of the City Campaign (getoutofthecity.com.au), which aims to drive submissions from country Australia to a new Senate inquiry into decentralising government offices and agencies, we have a vital chance for regional Australians to be heard by city-based politicians. 

Submissions close March 10 and our regional communities must have their say because this Senate inquiry was initiated to kill off relocating Commonwealth jobs in regional centres. 

Every public service job in a regional town flows through the community and means more money for the local businesses.

Regional Australia deserves its fair share of government services and opportunities; and that includes being able to access quality public sector careers just as much as any capital city. 

Technology and modern communication gives us the opportunity to reshape our vibrant communities; more government functions can be delivered from across Australia and no longer have to be centralised in Canberra and other capital cities.

There are four community groups across the Parkes electorate that are eligible to apply for more than $330,000 in funding through the Coalition government’s Community Heritage and Icons Grants program. 

Parkes electorate currently has four National Heritage listed sites including the Brewarrina fish traps [Baiames Ngunnhu], the Moree Baths and Swimming Pool, Warrumbungle National Park and the City of Broken Hill. 

Grants of between $2500 and $10,000 are available to support community engagement and awareness-raising activities undertaken by local groups.