GOVERNMENT SERVICES
In Australia, we have three different levels of government: Local, State and Federal. Each level of government is responsible for delivering specific services to our community. If you are unsure about which level of government is responsible for addressing a particular issue, please contact my office and I can direct you to the right place.
NSW STATE GOVERNMENT
The following issues are the responsibility of State Government:
Community Health and Dental
Public Hospitals
Education
Land and Water Management
Industrial Relations
Primary Industries and Agriculture
Public Housing
Main Roads
Public Works
Emergency Services
National Parks
Public Transport
Ageing and Disability
Community Services
Police
Fair Trading
Multiculturalism
Medical Research
If your problem falls into one of the categories above I may be able to help by seeking information and making representations to the relevant Minister.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
The following issues are the responsibility of Local Government:
Local Roads and footpaths
Rubbish collection
Rates
Sporting fields and parks
Street lighting and signage
Residential and commercial development
Animal control
It’s best to contact your local Council directly if you have problems with these issues. If you live in the Electorate of Port Stephens, you will live in one of the following Local Government Areas (LGAs):
Port Stephens Council
Phone: (02) 4980 0255
Email: council@portstephens.nsw.gov.au
Post: PO Box 42, Raymond Terrace, NSW, 2324
MidCoast Council
Phone: (02) 6591 7222
Email: council@midcoast.nsw.gov.au
Post: PO Box 450, Forster, NSW, 2428
FEDERAL (COMMONWEALTH) GOVERNMENT
The following issues are the responsibility of the Federal Government:
Taxation
Aged Care
Trade
Foreign Affairs
Higher Education
Defence
Aviation and Shipping
Telecommunications
National Highways
Veterans' Affairs
Medicare
Centrelink
Child Support
If your concerns relate to one of these issues, you should contact your local Federal Member. You can find out who your Federal Member is by visiting the Australian Parliament's website and entering your postcode.
If you live in the State Electorate of Port Stephens, your Federal Member is likely to be Meryl Swanson MP or David Gillespie MP. They can be contacted using the details below:
Ms Meryl Swanson MP
Federal Member for Paterson
Phone: (02) 6277 4248
Email: Meryl.Swanson.MP@aph.gov.au
Post: PO Box 156, Raymond Terrace, NSW, 2324
Dr David Gillespie MP
Federal Member for Lyne
Phone: (02) 6586 4462
Email: David.Gillespie.MP@aph.gov.au
Post: PO Box 244, Wauchope, NSW, 2446