Christmas Hamper Appeal finishes for another year

Annerley Labor has concluded another successful Christmas Hamper Appeal, helping people and families in need this festive season. Comprising a range of donated food items and a donation of $200, the Branch recently handed over its contribution to Micah Projects (pictured), which organises the appeal each year.

Based in West End, Micah Projects is a non-profit community-focussed organisation providing valuable support for people experiencing adversity due to poverty, homelessness, mental illness, domestic violence, disability, and discrimination due to age, gender or sexual orientation.

Support for Qld Police racism enquiry

Members have supported calls from the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland for an independent enquiry into allegations of systemic racism within the Queensland Police Service.

Recent reports of racist and misogynist behaviour in the Queensland Police Service towards First Nations people, and people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities, have sparked concern within various multicultural communities across Queensland. It is also understood that many ALP members from CALD backgrounds have expressed their dismay at the silence from Queensland government in response to these reports.

The Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland have called for any investigation into the systemic racism to be ‘thorough and transparent in order to rebuild trust’. Some critics have argued that it is vital that systemic cultural change must be enacted within the police service to properly address the issue.

In support of the calls, Annerley Labor members have strongly condemned the reported behaviour and have called on the Commissioner for Police to promptly ‘sanction those who are found to have engaged in such behaviour’.

Members express solidarity with Iranian women

Annerley Labor has registered its support for the ‘Women, Life and Freedom’ movement in Iran, in its attempt to stop state sanctioned discrimination and violence against women in their country.

The movement, largely sparked by the tragic death of Mahsa Amini, seeks to free women of the restrictive practices currently implemented by the Iranian government.

In a resolution addressed to Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, Annerley Labor has condemned the repressive actions of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), whilst welcoming the continuation of the Australian government’s targeted financial sanctions.

However, members have also backed calls for the Australian government to introduce the same level of sanctions as imposed by Canada, the United States of America and the European Union on Iran and on any of its citizens who violate human rights.

Annerley Labor members welcomed statements made by the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister condemning the regime’s treatment of its own people and re-iterating that ‘Australia stands with Iranian women and girls in their struggle for equality and empowerment’.

Cross River Rail: impacted residents supported

Responding to growing concerns expressed by local residents impacted by the ongoing construction of the new Cross River Rail station at Dutton Park, Annerley Labor has called on the Queensland Transport Minister, Mark Bailey MP to support ‘the installation of an appropriate noise barrier, in consultation with local residents’.

As part of the Cross River Rail Project, Dutton Park station is being rebuilt to improve access and functionality and is expected to be completed by 2025. However, current construction is happening all hours during the day, bringing not only noise but bright lights at night, as well as large amounts of dust.

In its correspondence to the Transport Minister, Annerley Labor has also backed calls for an ‘immediate provision of material compensation’ for residents whose ‘quality of life is deleteriously affected by construction of the new station’.

Season’s Greetings

Annerley Labor would like to extend greetings to all its members and supporters during this festive season and wishes everyone a very happy, safe and healthy 2023.

Many families and individuals move each year. While some move for new jobs, or to be closer to family, others simply need a change of scenery. If you have recently experienced a low point in your life, relocating to a new city could also provide the fresh start you need.

Tip 1 – Choose the right city

There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing a place to live. First, you need to pick a place you can afford. Second, consider your job prospects and how far away from friends and family you want to be. Choose a place with a climate that suits your lifestyle.

Explore the culture of the city you are thinking about. Think about how you want to get around. Does the city need to be car-friendly, or do you plan to walk, bike, or take public transport? Research the food scene and the schools. Finally, you might want to visit the places you are thinking about first.

Tip 2 – Find a place to live

When you move to a new city, it may make sense to rent for a while to make sure you want to stay before you buy a house. Find a rental with the amenities you need, such as proximity to public transport, good schools, medical care, and shopping. You can also sort listings by price range so that you don’t waste time looking at places that won’t fit your budget. Finally, you can sort properties by the number of bedrooms and bathrooms they have so that you can find the perfect fit for you and your family.

Tip 3 – Establish yourself in your new community

It can take months or even years to get used to living in a new place. You can make this process easier by taking steps to establish yourself. Choose a few go-to spots where you can start getting to know the locals. Go on some outings with your coworkers. Do some volunteer work. Join some Meetup groups. Be a tourist in your new city. Visit the attractions, take photos and learn the history of your new home.

Tip 4 – Update your contacts list

Even if you buy a brand-new house, you are likely to need something fixed at some point. It is better to have a list of tradespeople to contact before something goes wrong. For example, if you have a clogged drain or blocked toilet or need a pipe replaced or repaired, it’s a good idea to have a reliable plumber you can quickly contact.

Tip 5 – Find a job

Job hunting can be a daunting task, especially when you’re looking in a location. Even if you’re the most qualified candidate, it can be hard to stand out from the competition. The best way to find a new job is to start by identifying your skills and interests. Once you know what you have to offer, you can begin reaching out to potential employers. Another great way to network is to attend local events and meetups. This will give you a chance to meet other professionals in your field and learn about new opportunities.

Finally, don’t forget to use online resources like job boards and LinkedIn. By taking a proactive approach, you’re sure to find the perfect job in no time.

Sometimes a change of scenery is needed to make a fresh start. Moving to a new city to start over is challenging, but you can make the process easier by following these five basic tips.

This article was provided by Jason Lewis of Strongwell.org

Image via Pexels