NSW Senator Sam Dastyari visited Lane Cove last Tuesday evening to address a public forum about proposed changes to racial discrimination laws in Australia.

The forum discussed the recently released report by the Commonwealth Parliament’s Joint Committee on Human Rights reviewing the Racial Discrimination Act and particularly sections 18C and 18D of that Act.

The idea by Anthony Roberts – State Member for Lane Cove saying that he wants first home owners to be able to access their superannuation to purchase their first homes (North Shore Times – Thursday 23^rd February) is yet another example of the Liberals undermining the superannuation system in Australia. Once again they are not tackling the real problems contribution to making housing unaffordable for many Australians. 

Housing affordability is going to continue to be a big issue. I believe Labor still has the best policy to address this issue. 

There is no question that negative gearing on investment properties has distorted our housing market. A $600,000 home for a couple who wish to live in it will cost them $700 a week in principle and interest repayments. That same home if purchased by an investor will cost $100 week after tax deductions and depreciation.

Today, Justice Moore of the NSW Land and Environment Court dismissed court action by the Liberal dominated Lane Cove Council against the Baird Liberal Government's plans to force the amalgamation of Lane Cove, Hunters Hill and Ryde Councils.

The next meeting of the Lane Cove Branch of the NSW Labor Party will be on Thursday 22nd September at 7:00pm.

To visit our meeting please email [email protected] or call Andrew on 0422 038 253.