The Jones Report - 18 April 2019

18 April 2019

An early Jones Report this week, because like many of my regular readers, I'll be taking a few days to relax before the campaign really picks up steam in the coming weeks.

One of the great examples of bipartisanship is both sides of politics leaving Good Friday and Easter Sunday free of political advertising, so that you can spend the long weekend politics-free, no matter what your background.

I hope you enjoy the break, and have a safe and happy time however you spend it.

I'll be joining hundreds of others from near and far by heading up to the Burrawang Markets, one of the best parts of the Easter Weekend in my electorate.

This week we announced more about Labor's Medicare Cancer Plan.

A Shorten Labor Government will ensure vital blood tests are protected from Scott Morrisons health cuts investing $200 million to keep pathology tests free for older Australians and Australians with cancer.

As treasurer, Scott Morrison tried to cut pathology by $650 million and as
Prime Minister, hes failed to do anything to ensure that these critical tests remain free.

Bulk billing for blood tests is at breaking point cancer patients will either have to pay, or there will be a reduction in services.

Thats why Labor will invest $200 million to protect pathology and keep it free for vulnerable Australians.

I've always loved any opportunity to visit the HARS Museam in Albion Park.

It is run by incredibly passionate volunteers, and like its collection of historic aircraft, the museum's popularity is constantly growing.

Today I announced a Shorten Labor Government will commit $750,000 towards the expansionof the museum.

With almost 50 historic aircraft on site, the new funding would help to build a hangar to protect, restore and display more historical aircraft and ensure this important museum can expand and attract more visitors.

It's a great project, and will help provide a major boost to tourism in the Illawarra.

A shout out to my Illawarra Labor colleague Sharon Bird and Member for Macarthur Dr Mike Freelander, who made a funding announcement for Appin Road.

The commitment includes $50 million in funding to make important upgrades including lane widening, shoulder widening, additional lanes and safety upgrades.

A further $5 million would be used to construct a Sky Bridge, or fauna overpass, over Appin Road. This would enable the region's unique koala colony to continue to thrive, facilitating their movement between different habitats.


A busy week across the region, with Anzac Day only a week away.

I will be at attending services in Albion Park, Warilla and Shellharbour before heading up to the parade in Bowral.

If you want find your nearest service across the region, you can find a list here


Netball is the Illawarras most popular womens sport with over 3000 members of the IDNA.

The home of netball in the Illawarra needs significant upgrades to enable this key sport to continue to grow and to potentially host state and higher level competitions.

Hundreds have already signed our petition to show their support for upgrading local facilities -Click here to add your name