The Rudd Government’s 22nd Community Cabinet will be held at Epping Boys’ High School in the northern Sydney suburb of Eastwood on Thursday 8 April 2010.
“Community Cabinet is this Government’s commitment to ensure close consultation with the Australian people on the things that concern them at a national level and at a local level,” said the Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.
“We look forward to hearing from the people of northern Sydney on the 8th of April.”
Cabinet Secretary and Special Minister of State, Senator Joe Ludwig, said the Rudd Government’s Community Cabinet concept continues to grow in popularity.
“More and more people are taking the opportunity afforded by Community Cabinet to raise their issues with Cabinet ministers or even the Prime Minister himself,” said Senator Ludwig.
“So far 9371 people have had their say directly to the Rudd Government’s top decision-makers.”
The Member for Bennelong Maxine McKew warmly welcomed the announcement.
I’m delighted to welcome Community Cabinet to northern Sydney,” said Ms McKew.
“The evening begins with a Welcome to Country and the National Anthem, followed by a public forum, then one-one-one meetings with individuals or groups.”
“I encourage all members of the local community with issues they want to raise with the Rudd Ministry to register for this event.”
Ms McKew also said the occasion would be an historic first.
“For the first time the people of northern Sydney will have the ear of the whole Federal Government.”
“This is also only the third Community Cabinet for Sydney and it’s a privilege and honour for our area to be chosen.”
Registrations open from 9.00am on Monday 15 March and close at 5.00pm on Friday 19 March.
“From prior experience at other Community Cabinets, the places fill up fast – so I urge locals to get in quickly to avoid disappointment,” said Ms McKew.
“You can register online at www.pmc.gov.au/community_cabinet, or by contacting the Community Cabinet Secretariat on 1800 088 323 (toll free), 02 6271 5563 or via fax on 02 6271 5405.”
“TTY services are also available on 02 6271 5845.”
