Publicly funded education is fundamental to the promotion of a civil and just society.

Why is access to early education and care not considered in the same vein?

Public policy should always aim for equity, target vulnerable and disadvantaged families and children and support women's participation in the workforce, thus leading to increased productivity.

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Ruth Forrest MLC and Lawyer Greg Barnes discuss border restrictions, the winding back of govenment support and the likelihood of a post-Covid baby boom or divorce boom with Leon Compton on ABC Mornings Friday Forum

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The task ahead, the economic "fight of our lives", requires understanding of current challenges before designing a recovery plan for the post pandemic world.

All states will be facing similar problems. New ways of thinking and responding are necessary. The need for change has to be understood, as do the challenges. Hopefully our new pragmatic Premier will continue as to put his cards on the table for all to see.

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My latest Newsletter is now available. Much has changed since my last update, but I have continued to serve the people of Murschison both virtually, and now in person as my office is now open to the public again.

Please feel free to share this link with your contacts who might be interested, or come into the office to pick up a hard copy if you would prefer to read it that way.

View Murchison Matters here 

Some more resources for anyone feeling a heightened sense of worry or anxiety during these uncertain times are available by accessing the link below:

Mental Health Services Helpline brochure

For every dollar received this year, Tasmania will spend $1.29. Spending on health will help, says Ruth Forrest

NEVER waste a crisis.

It’s a hackneyed phrase for sure, but it accurately sums up the sentiment of people I talk to. We need to take advantage of new opportunities as we rebuild and not squander any positives this extraordinary time has presented. We also need to explore which things we can do better.

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It was pleasing to hear the Prime Minister announce a continuation of the National Cabinet following its success as a decision-making forum during the pandemic. A continuation of cooperative federalism will be needed to ensure recovery of state government finances and is crucial to service delivery at the coalface. The plight of state governments has scarcely rated a mention as all focus has been on the millions of private businesses and their employees, but they have suffered similar revenue losses.

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