Community Newsletter

It has been great to be out in Warringah again and see and hear about the work of the community, from restaurants preparing meals for our front line workers, to hearing what issues matter most to our young leaders.

SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES AND CINEMAS

As the fallout of COVID-19 restrictions continues, it is so important that we support our local businesses. I met with the General Manager of the Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace in Cremorne to discuss how the restrictions have affected their business. 

I also met with the owners of Afous Restaurant at the Spit. In true community spirit, Afous helped to cook meals for Northern Beaches Hospital essential workers during the pandemic with donated food from suppliers and locals helping to deliver the meals. 

L’Heritage at Chowder Bay also offers amazing French cuisine and have reopened their doors after a challenging year last year.

Northern Beaches businesses will be eligible for the “Dine and Discover” voucher from February 22. For more information go to the NSW Government website HERE 
 

SPEECHES IN PARLIAMENT 

Parliament sat last week for the first time in 2021. I spoke about:

• Th COVID-19 roll out
• The Aged Care system 
• The National Redress scheme for child sexual assault
• The devastation of Juukan Gorge following the interim report to the inquiry into the destruction of 46,000-year-old caves. To read the report “Never Again” click HERE
   

To watch and read the transcripts of each speech please click HERE

CLIMATE CHANGE HEARINGS

The two hearings for the Climate Change Bill inquiry were a huge success. Leaders from business, health, social services and local councils gave evidence about the impact climate change will have on them, and why legislating net zero by 2050 is so crucial for our country.

To read more about the inquiry and read the transcripts click HERE.

YOUTH AMBASSADORS

We hosted our second 2021 Warringah Youth Ambassador meeting this week where my team and I heard firsthand what issues matter to the school leaders of every high school in our area. 

One of the biggest issues continues to be tackling mental health and openly discussing sexuality and gender in schools. Thank you for another fantastic session - I’m looking forward to the next session in March.
 

NDIS FORUM

I was very pleased with the huge amount of interest from participants, carers and providers at the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) online forum I held on Thursday morning. We had well over 100 people sign up to participate.
 
I have listened to the concerns of the community regarding the new independent assessment process which is to be introduced this year, as well as those who have had issues navigating the complex system, many of whom we have been able to assist. The idea for the forum was a result of this feedback.
 
We have 1175 NDIS participants in Warringah. The NDIS is an integral part of improving the quality of life for so many in our community. It is important that best outcomes are reached for all.
 
The forum was an opportunity for participants, including me, to understand how the new system is intended to work and to have questions answered by a senior adviser at the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), Dr Sam Bennett.
 
Thank you to everyone who participated. I hope you found it informative. A transcript of the event is available on my website HERE
 
I will be taking a keen interest in the roll out of the independent assessment process and the implementation of the NDIS Service Charter.  Please email [email protected] if you have feedback as the new programme rolls out or if we can assist you in any way.


COMING UP

• The Orpheum is holding a French Festival starting from March 2 – Wed March 31. Check out what films they have on offer HERE
   
• The Northern Beaches Council Eco Awards 2021 open today and close 5pm Friday 26 March 2021 for more information click HERE
   
• Australian Doctors International and Waves For Water Australia, have joined forces to support at risk communities and front line health workers. On Saturday 27th February they are holding a fundraiser at Q Station and tickets are now available here: https://w4w.grassrootz.com/adi-w4w-manly-fundraiser 

• Did you get our Summer Newsletter in the mail? Click HERE to see it

My team and I are constantly working to find solutions for you, your family and friends and our general community. You can keep up to date at our website www.zalisteggall.com.au or calling the office on 9977 6411 if you have concerns.