Premier Peter Beattie and Ms Anna Bligh have a hide to claim any credibility for economic growth in Queensland.
Unemployment continues to fall, while investment and exports continue to grow in Queensland only through the responsible management of the Howard Government and in spite of the economic vandalism of Peter Beattie and Labor.
Through the introduction of the GST in 2000, the Beattie Labor Government has had more money in its coffers than ever before.
In spite of this, Peter Beattie allowed Queensland’s health system to crumble and our transport infrastructure to fall into disrepair.
Figures released today show that Peter Beattie has been forced to spend $517 million, $19 million more than expected, to fix his mistakes.
Despite this, the forecast increase in economic growth released today show the Howard Government has helped deliver more jobs for Queensland.
Unemployment in Queensland is currently 4.3%, below the national average of 4.6% and a vast improvement on 8.7% when Labor was in Government in 1996.
The figures also show how the Federal Government’s strong economic management has helped foster increased exports through the combination of tax relief and the development of overseas markets.
The only threat to maintaining strong economic prosperity in Queensland, is if the federal Labor Party were once again given access to Australia’s cheque book.
Peter Beattie's mismanagement shows our economy can’t afford a federal Labor government.