First passengers head off from new Neil St bus station - Toowoomba Chronicle

TOOWOOMBA'S Neil St bus station has welcomed its first passengers after a million-dollar facelift.

Toowoomba Regional Councillor Carol Taylor said the refurbishment would bring benefits to inner-city traders.

"The changes make the new-look bus station even more attractive to bus operators and passengers and will help to bring extra people into the city area which will hopefully also bring benefits to CBD businesses," she said.

The project was jointly funded by the Department of Transport and Toowoomba Regional Council.

The new-look Neil St bus station in Toowoomba has seen off its first passengers. Chris Calcino

Greyhound spokeswoman Kristy Stevens said having Greyhound Australia coaches based at the station would provide benefits for long-distance passengers.

"The bus station will be the launching point for services to major destinations including Brisbane, Sydney, Mt Isa, Darwin and Melbourne," she said.

"Greyhound's new Toowoomba travel centre is located directly behind the new bus station."

Upgrades included new drop-off zones, taxi rink with telephone access, improved lighting, disabled toilet upgrades and improved passenger waiting facilities.

Man arrested at Moree, NSW, over Toowoomba stabbing - Courier Mail

A 24-YEAR-old man arrested in Moree, NSW, is expected to be extradited back to Queensland in relation to an attempted murder in Toowoomba.

It is alleged the man was involved in the violent altercation with a 25-year-old man outside a residence on James St last Thursday.

Authorities are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, which left the 25-year-old man with a serious knife wound to the chest.

The victim has been transferred to Brisbane’s Princess Alexandra Hospital, where he remains in a serious condition.

Woman's blue card win after trying to gas kids - Toowoomba Chronicle

A QUEENSLAND woman who attempted to gas herself and her three children has been allowed to get a Blue Card so she can complete a university degree.

The Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal accepted the 43-year-old from Hervey Bay was at breaking point in September 2007 when the incident occurred, and ruled she had since turned her life around.

The tribunal heard the woman, known as JAK, had struggled with the suicide of a close friend in April 2007, followed two months later by the death of her father from cancer, then the death of an uncle.

Meanwhile, the woman's partner was facing criminal charges, and in August 2007 attempted to hang himself after an argument between the pair. JAK managed to cut him down while ringing emergency services.

"She then attempted CPR while waiting for the ambulance. He survived but she describes having 'never experienced fear or loneliness on the level that I did that day'," the QCAT judgement read.

Read full story at Brisbane Times

Oscar Pistorius declared fit for murder trial - Toowoomba Chronicle

Oscar Pistorius Bang Showbiz

OSCAR Pistorius has been declared fit to stand trial.

The paralympian's murder case has been on hold since May 20 while he underwent medical evaluation, but a psychological report

has ruled he did not have a mental disorder when he killed girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp.

Four appointed psychiatrists had to decide whether he was "capable of appreciating the wrongfulness of his act" or "criminally responsible" for his behaviour at the time of the shooting.

Both prosecution and defence lawyers have accepted the findings and the trial resumes in Pretoria, South Africa, today (30.06.14).

The athlete has denied deliberately murdering the model in February last year, insisting he acted in self-defence in the mistaken belief she was an intruder, and his lawyers had argued he was suffering from an anxiety disorder at the time of the incident.

Today, the court will hear from Dr. Gerry Versfeld who amputated Pistorius' legs and he will discuss the impact of the disability on the athlete.

The defence is expected to finish presenting its evidence in the next few days.

If found guilty of murder, Pistorius could face life in jail, or 15 years in prison if the court finds him guilty of the lesser charge of culpable homicide.

First passengers head off from new Neil St bus station - Toowoomba Chronicle

TOOWOOMBA'S Neil St bus station has welcomed its first passengers after a million-dollar facelift.

Toowoomba Regional Councillor Carol Taylor said the refurbishment would bring benefits to inner-city traders.

"The changes make the new-look bus station even more attractive to bus operators and passengers and will help to bring extra people into the city area which will hopefully also bring benefits to CBD businesses," she said.

The project was jointly funded by the Department of Transport and Toowoomba Regional Council.

The new-look Neil St bus station in Toowoomba has seen off its first passengers. Chris Calcino

Greyhound spokeswoman Kristy Stevens said having Greyhound Australia coaches based at the station would provide benefits for long-distance passengers.

"The bus station will be the launching point for services to major destinations including Brisbane, Sydney, Mt Isa, Darwin and Melbourne," she said.

"Greyhound's new Toowoomba travel centre is located directly behind the new bus station."

Upgrades included new drop-off zones, taxi rink with telephone access, improved lighting, disabled toilet upgrades and improved passenger waiting facilities.

Woman's blue card win after trying to gas kids - Toowoomba Chronicle

A QUEENSLAND woman who attempted to gas herself and her three children has been allowed to get a Blue Card so she can complete a university degree.

The Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal accepted the 43-year-old from Hervey Bay was at breaking point in September 2007 when the incident occurred, and ruled she had since turned her life around.

The tribunal heard the woman, known as JAK, had struggled with the suicide of a close friend in April 2007, followed two months later by the death of her father from cancer, then the death of an uncle.

Meanwhile, the woman's partner was facing criminal charges, and in August 2007 attempted to hang himself after an argument between the pair. JAK managed to cut him down while ringing emergency services.

"She then attempted CPR while waiting for the ambulance. He survived but she describes having 'never experienced fear or loneliness on the level that I did that day'," the QCAT judgement read.

Read full story at Brisbane Times

Oscar Pistorius declared fit for murder trial - Toowoomba Chronicle

Oscar Pistorius Bang Showbiz

OSCAR Pistorius has been declared fit to stand trial.

The paralympian's murder case has been on hold since May 20 while he underwent medical evaluation, but a psychological report

has ruled he did not have a mental disorder when he killed girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp.

Four appointed psychiatrists had to decide whether he was "capable of appreciating the wrongfulness of his act" or "criminally responsible" for his behaviour at the time of the shooting.

Both prosecution and defence lawyers have accepted the findings and the trial resumes in Pretoria, South Africa, today (30.06.14).

The athlete has denied deliberately murdering the model in February last year, insisting he acted in self-defence in the mistaken belief she was an intruder, and his lawyers had argued he was suffering from an anxiety disorder at the time of the incident.

Today, the court will hear from Dr. Gerry Versfeld who amputated Pistorius' legs and he will discuss the impact of the disability on the athlete.

The defence is expected to finish presenting its evidence in the next few days.

If found guilty of murder, Pistorius could face life in jail, or 15 years in prison if the court finds him guilty of the lesser charge of culpable homicide.

Maroons starting line-up for Game 3 - Toowoomba Chronicle

Billy Slater speaks with the press at the Palmer Coolum Resort ahead of an Origin training session. Photo: Iain Curry / Sunshine Coast Daily Iain Curry

COACH Mal Meninga says Queensland can get some Origin satisfaction by playing well in Wednesday night's third game at Suncorp Stadium.

After winning a record eight series straight since 2006 Queensland find themselves fighting to avoid it first Origin whitewash in 14 years.

But Meninga, who has been at the helm throughout Queensland golden run said the players had too much pride in the maroon jumper to think a win in any Origin was not important, even a dead game.

"We can enjoy the night by making sure we play really well," said Meninga as his 17-man squad was revealed during a clinic for young children at the Graceville Lions junior rugby league club today.

Melbourne Storm's Will Chamber is the only new face in the squad coming in for injured North Queensland Cowboy Brent Tate while tough Warriors forward Jacob Lillyman fills Matt Scott's front-row starting role.

Cooper Cronk, who played just seven minute of Origin I after breaking his arm and then missing Origin !! when NSW wrapped up the series 12-8 in a niggling and at times spiteful clash, returns in the No.7 jumper with Daly Cherry Evans dropping back onto the interchange bench.

Brisbane prop Josh McGuire was named 18th man.

The Queensland squad is:

• Billy Slater,


• Darius Boyd,


• Will Chambers,


• Greg Inglis,


• Justin Hodges,


• Johnathan Thurston,


• Cooper Cronk,


• Jacob Lillyman,


• Cameron Smith,


• Nate Myles,


• Sam Thaiday,


• Aidan Guerra,


• Corey Parker.


• Daly Cherry-Evans,


• Ben Te'o,


• Matt Gillett,


• Dave Taylor.


• 18th man: Josh McGuire.


• 19th man: Michael Morgan

First passengers head off from new Neil St bus station - Toowoomba Chronicle

TOOWOOMBA'S Neil St bus station has welcomed its first passengers after a million-dollar facelift.

Toowoomba Regional Councillor Carol Taylor said the refurbishment would bring benefits to inner-city traders.

"The changes make the new-look bus station even more attractive to bus operators and passengers and will help to bring extra people into the city area which will hopefully also bring benefits to CBD businesses," she said.

The project was jointly funded by the Department of Transport and Toowoomba Regional Council.

The new-look Neil St bus station in Toowoomba has seen off its first passengers. Chris Calcino

Greyhound spokeswoman Kristy Stevens said having Greyhound Australia coaches based at the station would provide benefits for long-distance passengers.

"The bus station will be the launching point for services to major destinations including Brisbane, Sydney, Mt Isa, Darwin and Melbourne," she said.

"Greyhound's new Toowoomba travel centre is located directly behind the new bus station."

Upgrades included new drop-off zones, taxi rink with telephone access, improved lighting, disabled toilet upgrades and improved passenger waiting facilities.

Woman's blue card win after trying to gas kids - Toowoomba Chronicle

A QUEENSLAND woman who attempted to gas herself and her three children has been allowed to get a Blue Card so she can complete a university degree.

The Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal accepted the 43-year-old from Hervey Bay was at breaking point in September 2007 when the incident occurred, and ruled she had since turned her life around.

The tribunal heard the woman, known as JAK, had struggled with the suicide of a close friend in April 2007, followed two months later by the death of her father from cancer, then the death of an uncle.

Meanwhile, the woman's partner was facing criminal charges, and in August 2007 attempted to hang himself after an argument between the pair. JAK managed to cut him down while ringing emergency services.

"She then attempted CPR while waiting for the ambulance. He survived but she describes having 'never experienced fear or loneliness on the level that I did that day'," the QCAT judgement read.

Read full story at Brisbane Times

Oscar Pistorius declared fit for murder trial - Toowoomba Chronicle

Oscar Pistorius Bang Showbiz

OSCAR Pistorius has been declared fit to stand trial.

The paralympian's murder case has been on hold since May 20 while he underwent medical evaluation, but a psychological report

has ruled he did not have a mental disorder when he killed girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp.

Four appointed psychiatrists had to decide whether he was "capable of appreciating the wrongfulness of his act" or "criminally responsible" for his behaviour at the time of the shooting.

Both prosecution and defence lawyers have accepted the findings and the trial resumes in Pretoria, South Africa, today (30.06.14).

The athlete has denied deliberately murdering the model in February last year, insisting he acted in self-defence in the mistaken belief she was an intruder, and his lawyers had argued he was suffering from an anxiety disorder at the time of the incident.

Today, the court will hear from Dr. Gerry Versfeld who amputated Pistorius' legs and he will discuss the impact of the disability on the athlete.

The defence is expected to finish presenting its evidence in the next few days.

If found guilty of murder, Pistorius could face life in jail, or 15 years in prison if the court finds him guilty of the lesser charge of culpable homicide.

Mountaineers return from road trip without win - Toowoomba Chronicle

Toowoomba's Tron Smith rises above the Gladstone defence. Jake Jones

THE Toowoomba Mountaineers returned home from their QBL road trip empty-handed after back-to-back losses against Gladstone and Bundaberg.

A slow start proved too much for the Mountaineers men to overcome as they went down 88-78 against Gladstone on Saturday.

Toowoomba came home strongly with prolific scorers Tron Smith (25 points) and Willie Farley (18) again in the thick of the action.

But the damage had already been done after giving Gladstone a 27-13 head-start in the first term.

The Mountaineers women also struggled to match up with the powerhouse Gladstone side as they were soundly beaten 118-55.

Toowoomba was never really in the hunt after falling behind by 32 points at halftime with captain Kisha Lee (16 points, nine rebounds) kept reasonably quiet.

Meanwhile, things didn't improve for the Mountaineers against Bundaberg yesterday.

The women were again slow out of the blocks but fought back to within one point at halftime.

But a horror third quarter saw Bundaberg break away and they held their lead for a 73-55 victory.

Finally, the Mountaineers men fell to their ninth-straight loss as Bundaberg triumphed 93-74.

Farley (29) and Smith (16) again dropped big numbers but they couldn't chase down the Bulls.

QBL RESULTS

Men:

• Gladstone 88 def Toowoomba 78 (Smith 25, Farley 18)


• Bundaberg 93 def Toowoomba 74 (Farley 29, Smith 16)

Women:

• Gladstone 118 def Toowoomba 55 (Lee 16, Adams 12)


• Bundaberg 73 def Toowoomba 55 (Lee 19, Russell 13)

Opposition defends seniors against cuts to aged-care - Toowoomba Chronicle

CUTS to aged care support for senior Australians could undermine major reforms begun by the previous government, the Federal Opposition has claimed.

Changes to the Commonwealth's aged-care system, including means-testing for some people to pay more for residential care and support to live in-home, will come into effect on Tuesday.

Other changes put in place will be new options to pay for accommodation and services, including daily payments or refundable deposits and capping of care fees.

The reforms, part of the previous government's Living Longer, Living Better package, have had largely bipartisan support.

But Labor's ageing spokesman Shayne Neumann said while he welcomed the Government keeping the reforms, cuts increases on the $1.1 million aged care workforce supplement could undermine the gains.

"These reforms will deliver choice, easier access and better care for older Australians, their families and carers, while ensuring the aged-care industry is equipped to deal with the dramatic growth in our ageing population," he said.

Mr Neumann said the cut to rises in the supplement, and removal of the $652 million payroll tax supplement were "putting progress at serious risk".

But Assistant Social Services Minister Senator Mitch Fifield said the most important thing was that older people and families "learn about the choices available".

Senator Fifield said there was now a government website and hotline that people could use to find out more details about how the reforms will affect them.

"Most people don't start thinking about, or looking for, aged-care services until something happens - such as a fall or adverse health event," he said.

"But it's important to start an early conversation about what care options are available to you or a loved one, because this will help ensure older people get the support and care they need to keep them safe and living independently, or to find the residential aged-care setting that's right for them."

For more information, call the My Aged Care hotline on 1800 200 422, or go to: http://ift.tt/1jC74ud

Reforms:

• More home care packages to help older people stay in their own home


• More choice to pay for accommodation and services, with 28 days to decide how they would like to pay


• Transparent accommodation prices and services, with all residential aged-care providers required to publish the maximum amount they charge


• Means-test in residential care to determine a person's fair contribution, if any, to their care and accommodation, based on both their assets and income. New means-test arrangements will also apply to home care


• A $25,000 annual cap to means-tested care fees in residential care will be introduced, and caps will also be in place for home care, set at $5000 a year for part pensioners and $10,000 a year for self-funded retirees


• A $60,000 lifetime cap on means-tested care fees across both home and residential care will limit the total cost an individual will spend on their care overall

Thumbs up for pet adventure story - Toowoomba Chronicle

PUPPY POWER: Pets allows young gamers to own and train a virtual animal.

THE washing, the feeding, the daily walks, the chewed shoes, the piles of poo - sheesh, owning a dog can be a real drag.

That's where Pets comes in.

The handheld PlayStation Vita game cuts all the admin out of owning a real pet and delivers virtual shenanigans aimed squarely at gamers with little fingers.

The premise is much like real life.

Once you've chosen your pet, gamers have to teach their virtual puppy basic tricks like sitting and fetching a ball to make progress.

While you're getting the basics down, you'll earn Buddy points that can be spent on customisation options.

Want your dog to rock a pink bowtie and matching sunnies? Done. From there, it's time to head out on an adventure, and it's at that point the game comes into its own.

The smooth animation and colourful graphics that populate the game's story mode are wonderful. The book-reading animations are particularly enjoyable.

And though the voice work - yes, these dogs can talk - gets annoying and tasks repetitive, it doesn't seem to be a problem for younger players.

My son loved every minute of his time with the game especially when he got to choose his pet's name.

What did he call him? Fart.

Pets also takes good advantage of the Vita's touchscreen abilities: to make your dog sit, you'll need to swipe down; to throw a ball, it's sideways. It's great training for future gaming fans.

And just like real life, if you don't look after your pet he'll get up to mischief.

New laws mandate automated meters for QLD Taxis - Toowoomba Chronicle

MORE than 3000 taxis across the state will require automated meters to be fitted so passengers can have confidence they are paying the correct fare.

Transport Minister Scott Emerson said from today automated meters would be compulsory in taxis in a bid to eliminate confusion and overcharging.

"The new meters are programmed to automatically apply the correct tariff reflecting the time and day of travel, including public holidays," he said.

"Taxi drivers will no longer need to manually enter in automated toll charges as they will be applied through GPS technology, providing a more accurate fare calculation.

"This reduces the chance of drivers deliberately or accidentally setting the meter to an incorrect tariff, resulting in the passenger paying an incorrect fare."

Mr Emerson said a reduction in fare disputes and complaints from passengers would allow drivers to operate in a more secure, positive working environment.

Mountaineers return from road trip without win - Toowoomba Chronicle

Toowoomba's Tron Smith rises above the Gladstone defence. Jake Jones

THE Toowoomba Mountaineers returned home from their QBL road trip empty-handed after back-to-back losses against Gladstone and Bundaberg.

A slow start proved too much for the Mountaineers men to overcome as they went down 88-78 against Gladstone on Saturday.

Toowoomba came home strongly with prolific scorers Tron Smith (25 points) and Willie Farley (18) again in the thick of the action.

But the damage had already been done after giving Gladstone a 27-13 head-start in the first term.

The Mountaineers women also struggled to match up with the powerhouse Gladstone side as they were soundly beaten 118-55.

Toowoomba was never really in the hunt after falling behind by 32 points at halftime with captain Kisha Lee (16 points, nine rebounds) kept reasonably quiet.

Meanwhile, things didn't improve for the Mountaineers against Bundaberg yesterday.

The women were again slow out of the blocks but fought back to within one point at halftime.

But a horror third quarter saw Bundaberg break away and they held their lead for a 73-55 victory.

Finally, the Mountaineers men fell to their ninth-straight loss as Bundaberg triumphed 93-74.

Farley (29) and Smith (16) again dropped big numbers but they couldn't chase down the Bulls.

QBL RESULTS

Men:

• Gladstone 88 def Toowoomba 78 (Smith 25, Farley 18)


• Bundaberg 93 def Toowoomba 74 (Farley 29, Smith 16)

Women:

• Gladstone 118 def Toowoomba 55 (Lee 16, Adams 12)


• Bundaberg 73 def Toowoomba 55 (Lee 19, Russell 13)

Opposition defends seniors against cuts to aged-care - Toowoomba Chronicle

CUTS to aged care support for senior Australians could undermine major reforms begun by the previous government, the Federal Opposition has claimed.

Changes to the Commonwealth's aged-care system, including means-testing for some people to pay more for residential care and support to live in-home, will come into effect on Tuesday.

Other changes put in place will be new options to pay for accommodation and services, including daily payments or refundable deposits and capping of care fees.

The reforms, part of the previous government's Living Longer, Living Better package, have had largely bipartisan support.

But Labor's ageing spokesman Shayne Neumann said while he welcomed the Government keeping the reforms, cuts increases on the $1.1 million aged care workforce supplement could undermine the gains.

"These reforms will deliver choice, easier access and better care for older Australians, their families and carers, while ensuring the aged-care industry is equipped to deal with the dramatic growth in our ageing population," he said.

Mr Neumann said the cut to rises in the supplement, and removal of the $652 million payroll tax supplement were "putting progress at serious risk".

But Assistant Social Services Minister Senator Mitch Fifield said the most important thing was that older people and families "learn about the choices available".

Senator Fifield said there was now a government website and hotline that people could use to find out more details about how the reforms will affect them.

"Most people don't start thinking about, or looking for, aged-care services until something happens - such as a fall or adverse health event," he said.

"But it's important to start an early conversation about what care options are available to you or a loved one, because this will help ensure older people get the support and care they need to keep them safe and living independently, or to find the residential aged-care setting that's right for them."

For more information, call the My Aged Care hotline on 1800 200 422, or go to: http://ift.tt/1jC74ud

Reforms:

• More home care packages to help older people stay in their own home


• More choice to pay for accommodation and services, with 28 days to decide how they would like to pay


• Transparent accommodation prices and services, with all residential aged-care providers required to publish the maximum amount they charge


• Means-test in residential care to determine a person's fair contribution, if any, to their care and accommodation, based on both their assets and income. New means-test arrangements will also apply to home care


• A $25,000 annual cap to means-tested care fees in residential care will be introduced, and caps will also be in place for home care, set at $5000 a year for part pensioners and $10,000 a year for self-funded retirees


• A $60,000 lifetime cap on means-tested care fees across both home and residential care will limit the total cost an individual will spend on their care overall

Business groups and Unions together on job pitch to Abbott - Toowoomba Chronicle

NEW JOBS boards need to be created in areas of high unemployment, like the Fraser Coast in Queensland and Northern Rivers in New South Wales, to help provide more jobs.

That was the take-out from a rare alliance of unions, social services groups and the business sector, pitching the idea publicly to the Abbott government on Monday.

The group, including the Australian Council of Social Service, Australian Council of Trade Unions and the Business Council of Australia, called for new "regional employment boards".

Key to the "partnerships approach" would be helping long-term unemployed people get and stay in jobs, in areas of entrenched unemployment, with the regional boards helping direct where resources should go.

The proposal would create "networks in regions with high unemployment to promote employment partnerships" with employers, industry groups, unions and training providers all involved.

ACOSS chief executive Dr Cassandra Goldie said such groups would help ensure the right training was delivered to the right people and "ensure lasting employment outcomes".

"It is critical that people currently excluded from the labour market are given support to participate, and at the same time, employers need to have a direct line of sight to disadvantaged jobseekers," she said.

BCA chief executive Jennifer Westacott said a better partnership in the employment services system would also help match people to the needs of employers, "the other crucial half of a successful job match".

While the proposal is yet to be official, the groups have called on both the Abbott government to create a national trial, with bigger employers and regional trials focused on a "network of regional employers".

New laws mandate automated meters for QLD Taxis - Toowoomba Chronicle

MORE than 3000 taxis across the state will require automated meters to be fitted so passengers can have confidence they are paying the correct fare.

Transport Minister Scott Emerson said from today automated meters would be compulsory in taxis in a bid to eliminate confusion and overcharging.

"The new meters are programmed to automatically apply the correct tariff reflecting the time and day of travel, including public holidays," he said.

"Taxi drivers will no longer need to manually enter in automated toll charges as they will be applied through GPS technology, providing a more accurate fare calculation.

"This reduces the chance of drivers deliberately or accidentally setting the meter to an incorrect tariff, resulting in the passenger paying an incorrect fare."

Mr Emerson said a reduction in fare disputes and complaints from passengers would allow drivers to operate in a more secure, positive working environment.

Mountaineers return from road trip without win - Toowoomba Chronicle

Toowoomba's Tron Smith rises above the Gladstone defence. Jake Jones

THE Toowoomba Mountaineers returned home from their QBL road trip empty-handed after back-to-back losses against Gladstone and Bundaberg.

A slow start proved too much for the Mountaineers men to overcome as they went down 88-78 against Gladstone on Saturday.

Toowoomba came home strongly with prolific scorers Tron Smith (25 points) and Willie Farley (18) again in the thick of the action.

But the damage had already been done after giving Gladstone a 27-13 head-start in the first term.

The Mountaineers women also struggled to match up with the powerhouse Gladstone side as they were soundly beaten 118-55.

Toowoomba was never really in the hunt after falling behind by 32 points at halftime with captain Kisha Lee (16 points, nine rebounds) kept reasonably quiet.

Meanwhile, things didn't improve for the Mountaineers against Bundaberg yesterday.

The women were again slow out of the blocks but fought back to within one point at halftime.

But a horror third quarter saw Bundaberg break away and they held their lead for a 73-55 victory.

Finally, the Mountaineers men fell to their ninth-straight loss as Bundaberg triumphed 93-74.

Farley (29) and Smith (16) again dropped big numbers but they couldn't chase down the Bulls.

QBL RESULTS

Men:

• Gladstone 88 def Toowoomba 78 (Smith 25, Farley 18)


• Bundaberg 93 def Toowoomba 74 (Farley 29, Smith 16)

Women:

• Gladstone 118 def Toowoomba 55 (Lee 16, Adams 12)


• Bundaberg 73 def Toowoomba 55 (Lee 19, Russell 13)

Opposition defends seniors against cuts to aged-care - Toowoomba Chronicle

CUTS to aged care support for senior Australians could undermine major reforms begun by the previous government, the Federal Opposition has claimed.

Changes to the Commonwealth's aged-care system, including means-testing for some people to pay more for residential care and support to live in-home, will come into effect on Tuesday.

Other changes put in place will be new options to pay for accommodation and services, including daily payments or refundable deposits and capping of care fees.

The reforms, part of the previous government's Living Longer, Living Better package, have had largely bipartisan support.

But Labor's ageing spokesman Shayne Neumann said while he welcomed the Government keeping the reforms, cuts increases on the $1.1 million aged care workforce supplement could undermine the gains.

"These reforms will deliver choice, easier access and better care for older Australians, their families and carers, while ensuring the aged-care industry is equipped to deal with the dramatic growth in our ageing population," he said.

Mr Neumann said the cut to rises in the supplement, and removal of the $652 million payroll tax supplement were "putting progress at serious risk".

But Assistant Social Services Minister Senator Mitch Fifield said the most important thing was that older people and families "learn about the choices available".

Senator Fifield said there was now a government website and hotline that people could use to find out more details about how the reforms will affect them.

"Most people don't start thinking about, or looking for, aged-care services until something happens - such as a fall or adverse health event," he said.

"But it's important to start an early conversation about what care options are available to you or a loved one, because this will help ensure older people get the support and care they need to keep them safe and living independently, or to find the residential aged-care setting that's right for them."

For more information, call the My Aged Care hotline on 1800 200 422, or go to: http://ift.tt/1jC74ud

Reforms:

• More home care packages to help older people stay in their own home


• More choice to pay for accommodation and services, with 28 days to decide how they would like to pay


• Transparent accommodation prices and services, with all residential aged-care providers required to publish the maximum amount they charge


• Means-test in residential care to determine a person's fair contribution, if any, to their care and accommodation, based on both their assets and income. New means-test arrangements will also apply to home care


• A $25,000 annual cap to means-tested care fees in residential care will be introduced, and caps will also be in place for home care, set at $5000 a year for part pensioners and $10,000 a year for self-funded retirees


• A $60,000 lifetime cap on means-tested care fees across both home and residential care will limit the total cost an individual will spend on their care overall

Business groups and Unions together on job pitch to Abbott - Toowoomba Chronicle

NEW JOBS boards need to be created in areas of high unemployment, like the Fraser Coast in Queensland and Northern Rivers in New South Wales, to help provide more jobs.

That was the take-out from a rare alliance of unions, social services groups and the business sector, pitching the idea publicly to the Abbott government on Monday.

The group, including the Australian Council of Social Service, Australian Council of Trade Unions and the Business Council of Australia, called for new "regional employment boards".

Key to the "partnerships approach" would be helping long-term unemployed people get and stay in jobs, in areas of entrenched unemployment, with the regional boards helping direct where resources should go.

The proposal would create "networks in regions with high unemployment to promote employment partnerships" with employers, industry groups, unions and training providers all involved.

ACOSS chief executive Dr Cassandra Goldie said such groups would help ensure the right training was delivered to the right people and "ensure lasting employment outcomes".

"It is critical that people currently excluded from the labour market are given support to participate, and at the same time, employers need to have a direct line of sight to disadvantaged jobseekers," she said.

BCA chief executive Jennifer Westacott said a better partnership in the employment services system would also help match people to the needs of employers, "the other crucial half of a successful job match".

While the proposal is yet to be official, the groups have called on both the Abbott government to create a national trial, with bigger employers and regional trials focused on a "network of regional employers".

Seniors group wants big banks to go to war with Government - Toowoomba Chronicle

OLDER Australians have urged the Big Four banks to "publicly denounce" the Abbott Government's changes to financial advice laws, in light of a Senate inquiry call for a Royal Commission into the issue.

The biggest seniors lobby group in Australia, National Seniors, has written to the chief executives ANZ, Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, and the National Australia Bank on Monday.

While the banks have largely backed improvements the Abbott Government is considering to Labor's Future of Financial Advice laws, they have not criticised worrying parts of the changes.

Critics of the legislation has included seniors groups, the industry superannuation sector and the financial advice industry, on the basis the government's changes could allow questionable commissions and potential conflicts of interest for advisors.

National Seniors chief executive Michael O'Neill's letter to the banks called on them to take the lead, after trust in the financial advice sector has deteriorated since a series of high profile collapses including the Storm Financial breakdown.

He wrote the level of confidence in the sector was "at a very low point and diminishing daily", and that "no amount of spin or gloss...can alter that".

The letter comes after the Senate economics committee, after examining forgery allegations at CBA and alleged failures in enforcement at the companies' regulator, last week recommended a Royal Commission into the problems.

Mr O'Neill wrote the major drivers of the government's proposed reforms were the financial services industry and "major banks" which controlled "more than 80% of the advice sector".

"National Seniors has and continues to oppose the proposed changes because independent legal analysis concludes they provide for substantial consumer detriment," he wrote.

But the call for a Royal Commission has so far met with a lukewarm reception in senior government ranks, with Finance Minister Senator Mathias Cormann committing only that such issues would be looked at in the existing financial services review.

The government is yet to officially respond to the Senate inquiry's recommendations, and despite the concern about its financial advice reforms, appears likely to try to go ahead with the changes.

New laws mandate automated meters for QLD Taxis - Toowoomba Chronicle

MORE than 3000 taxis across the state will require automated meters to be fitted so passengers can have confidence they are paying the correct fare.

Transport Minister Scott Emerson said from today automated meters would be compulsory in taxis in a bid to eliminate confusion and overcharging.

"The new meters are programmed to automatically apply the correct tariff reflecting the time and day of travel, including public holidays," he said.

"Taxi drivers will no longer need to manually enter in automated toll charges as they will be applied through GPS technology, providing a more accurate fare calculation.

"This reduces the chance of drivers deliberately or accidentally setting the meter to an incorrect tariff, resulting in the passenger paying an incorrect fare."

Mr Emerson said a reduction in fare disputes and complaints from passengers would allow drivers to operate in a more secure, positive working environment.

Opposition defends seniors against cuts to aged-care - Toowoomba Chronicle

CUTS to aged care support for senior Australians could undermine major reforms begun by the previous government, the Federal Opposition has claimed.

Changes to the Commonwealth's aged-care system, including means-testing for some people to pay more for residential care and support to live in-home, will come into effect on Tuesday.

Other changes put in place will be new options to pay for accommodation and services, including daily payments or refundable deposits and capping of care fees.

The reforms, part of the previous government's Living Longer, Living Better package, have had largely bipartisan support.

But Labor's ageing spokesman Shayne Neumann said while he welcomed the Government keeping the reforms, cuts increases on the $1.1 million aged care workforce supplement could undermine the gains.

"These reforms will deliver choice, easier access and better care for older Australians, their families and carers, while ensuring the aged-care industry is equipped to deal with the dramatic growth in our ageing population," he said.

Mr Neumann said the cut to rises in the supplement, and removal of the $652 million payroll tax supplement were "putting progress at serious risk".

But Assistant Social Services Minister Senator Mitch Fifield said the most important thing was that older people and families "learn about the choices available".

Senator Fifield said there was now a government website and hotline that people could use to find out more details about how the reforms will affect them.

"Most people don't start thinking about, or looking for, aged-care services until something happens - such as a fall or adverse health event," he said.

"But it's important to start an early conversation about what care options are available to you or a loved one, because this will help ensure older people get the support and care they need to keep them safe and living independently, or to find the residential aged-care setting that's right for them."

For more information, call the My Aged Care hotline on 1800 200 422, or go to: http://ift.tt/1jC74ud

Reforms:

• More home care packages to help older people stay in their own home


• More choice to pay for accommodation and services, with 28 days to decide how they would like to pay


• Transparent accommodation prices and services, with all residential aged-care providers required to publish the maximum amount they charge


• Means-test in residential care to determine a person's fair contribution, if any, to their care and accommodation, based on both their assets and income. New means-test arrangements will also apply to home care


• A $25,000 annual cap to means-tested care fees in residential care will be introduced, and caps will also be in place for home care, set at $5000 a year for part pensioners and $10,000 a year for self-funded retirees


• A $60,000 lifetime cap on means-tested care fees across both home and residential care will limit the total cost an individual will spend on their care overall

Business groups and Unions together on job pitch to Abbott - Toowoomba Chronicle

NEW JOBS boards need to be created in areas of high unemployment, like the Fraser Coast in Queensland and Northern Rivers in New South Wales, to help provide more jobs.

That was the take-out from a rare alliance of unions, social services groups and the business sector, pitching the idea publicly to the Abbott government on Monday.

The group, including the Australian Council of Social Service, Australian Council of Trade Unions and the Business Council of Australia, called for new "regional employment boards".

Key to the "partnerships approach" would be helping long-term unemployed people get and stay in jobs, in areas of entrenched unemployment, with the regional boards helping direct where resources should go.

The proposal would create "networks in regions with high unemployment to promote employment partnerships" with employers, industry groups, unions and training providers all involved.

ACOSS chief executive Dr Cassandra Goldie said such groups would help ensure the right training was delivered to the right people and "ensure lasting employment outcomes".

"It is critical that people currently excluded from the labour market are given support to participate, and at the same time, employers need to have a direct line of sight to disadvantaged jobseekers," she said.

BCA chief executive Jennifer Westacott said a better partnership in the employment services system would also help match people to the needs of employers, "the other crucial half of a successful job match".

While the proposal is yet to be official, the groups have called on both the Abbott government to create a national trial, with bigger employers and regional trials focused on a "network of regional employers".

New laws mandate automated meters for QLD Taxis - Toowoomba Chronicle

MORE than 3000 taxis across the state will require automated meters to be fitted so passengers can have confidence they are paying the correct fare.

Transport Minister Scott Emerson said from today automated meters would be compulsory in taxis in a bid to eliminate confusion and overcharging.

"The new meters are programmed to automatically apply the correct tariff reflecting the time and day of travel, including public holidays," he said.

"Taxi drivers will no longer need to manually enter in automated toll charges as they will be applied through GPS technology, providing a more accurate fare calculation.

"This reduces the chance of drivers deliberately or accidentally setting the meter to an incorrect tariff, resulting in the passenger paying an incorrect fare."

Mr Emerson said a reduction in fare disputes and complaints from passengers would allow drivers to operate in a more secure, positive working environment.

Business groups and Unions together on job pitch to Abbott - Toowoomba Chronicle

NEW JOBS boards need to be created in areas of high unemployment, like the Fraser Coast in Queensland and Northern Rivers in New South Wales, to help provide more jobs.

That was the take-out from a rare alliance of unions, social services groups and the business sector, pitching the idea publicly to the Abbott government on Monday.

The group, including the Australian Council of Social Service, Australian Council of Trade Unions and the Business Council of Australia, called for new "regional employment boards".

Key to the "partnerships approach" would be helping long-term unemployed people get and stay in jobs, in areas of entrenched unemployment, with the regional boards helping direct where resources should go.

The proposal would create "networks in regions with high unemployment to promote employment partnerships" with employers, industry groups, unions and training providers all involved.

ACOSS chief executive Dr Cassandra Goldie said such groups would help ensure the right training was delivered to the right people and "ensure lasting employment outcomes".

"It is critical that people currently excluded from the labour market are given support to participate, and at the same time, employers need to have a direct line of sight to disadvantaged jobseekers," she said.

BCA chief executive Jennifer Westacott said a better partnership in the employment services system would also help match people to the needs of employers, "the other crucial half of a successful job match".

While the proposal is yet to be official, the groups have called on both the Abbott government to create a national trial, with bigger employers and regional trials focused on a "network of regional employers".

New laws mandate automated meters for QLD Taxis - Toowoomba Chronicle

MORE than 3000 taxis across the state will require automated meters to be fitted so passengers can have confidence they are paying the correct fare.

Transport Minister Scott Emerson said from today automated meters would be compulsory in taxis in a bid to eliminate confusion and overcharging.

"The new meters are programmed to automatically apply the correct tariff reflecting the time and day of travel, including public holidays," he said.

"Taxi drivers will no longer need to manually enter in automated toll charges as they will be applied through GPS technology, providing a more accurate fare calculation.

"This reduces the chance of drivers deliberately or accidentally setting the meter to an incorrect tariff, resulting in the passenger paying an incorrect fare."

Mr Emerson said a reduction in fare disputes and complaints from passengers would allow drivers to operate in a more secure, positive working environment.

Mountaineers return from road trip without win - Toowoomba Chronicle

Toowoomba's Tron Smith rises above the Gladstone defence. Jake Jones

THE Toowoomba Mountaineers returned home from their QBL road trip empty-handed after back-to-back losses against Gladstone and Bundaberg.

A slow start proved too much for the Mountaineers men to overcome as they went down 88-78 against Gladstone on Saturday.

Toowoomba came home strongly with prolific scorers Tron Smith (25 points) and Willie Farley (18) again in the thick of the action.

But the damage had already been done after giving Gladstone a 27-13 head-start in the first term.

The Mountaineers women also struggled to match up with the powerhouse Gladstone side as they were soundly beaten 118-55.

Toowoomba was never really in the hunt after falling behind by 32 points at halftime with captain Kisha Lee (16 points, nine rebounds) kept reasonably quiet.

Meanwhile, things didn't improve for the Mountaineers against Bundaberg yesterday.

The women were again slow out of the blocks but fought back to within one point at halftime.

But a horror third quarter saw Bundaberg break away and they held their lead for a 73-55 victory.

Finally, the Mountaineers men fell to their ninth-straight loss as Bundaberg triumphed 93-74.

Farley (29) and Smith (16) again dropped big numbers but they couldn't chase down the Bulls.

QBL RESULTS

Men:

• Gladstone 88 def Toowoomba 78 (Smith 25, Farley 18)


• Bundaberg 93 def Toowoomba 74 (Farley 29, Smith 16)

Women:

• Gladstone 118 def Toowoomba 55 (Lee 16, Adams 12)


• Bundaberg 73 def Toowoomba 55 (Lee 19, Russell 13)

Business groups and Unions together on job pitch to Abbott - Toowoomba Chronicle

NEW JOBS boards need to be created in areas of high unemployment, like the Fraser Coast in Queensland and Northern Rivers in New South Wales, to help provide more jobs.

That was the take-out from a rare alliance of unions, social services groups and the business sector, pitching the idea publicly to the Abbott government on Monday.

The group, including the Australian Council of Social Service, Australian Council of Trade Unions and the Business Council of Australia, called for new "regional employment boards".

Key to the "partnerships approach" would be helping long-term unemployed people get and stay in jobs, in areas of entrenched unemployment, with the regional boards helping direct where resources should go.

The proposal would create "networks in regions with high unemployment to promote employment partnerships" with employers, industry groups, unions and training providers all involved.

ACOSS chief executive Dr Cassandra Goldie said such groups would help ensure the right training was delivered to the right people and "ensure lasting employment outcomes".

"It is critical that people currently excluded from the labour market are given support to participate, and at the same time, employers need to have a direct line of sight to disadvantaged jobseekers," she said.

BCA chief executive Jennifer Westacott said a better partnership in the employment services system would also help match people to the needs of employers, "the other crucial half of a successful job match".

While the proposal is yet to be official, the groups have called on both the Abbott government to create a national trial, with bigger employers and regional trials focused on a "network of regional employers".

Seniors group wants big banks to go to war with Government - Toowoomba Chronicle

OLDER Australians have urged the Big Four banks to "publicly denounce" the Abbott Government's changes to financial advice laws, in light of a Senate inquiry call for a Royal Commission into the issue.

The biggest seniors lobby group in Australia, National Seniors, has written to the chief executives ANZ, Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, and the National Australia Bank on Monday.

While the banks have largely backed improvements the Abbott Government is considering to Labor's Future of Financial Advice laws, they have not criticised worrying parts of the changes.

Critics of the legislation has included seniors groups, the industry superannuation sector and the financial advice industry, on the basis the government's changes could allow questionable commissions and potential conflicts of interest for advisors.

National Seniors chief executive Michael O'Neill's letter to the banks called on them to take the lead, after trust in the financial advice sector has deteriorated since a series of high profile collapses including the Storm Financial breakdown.

He wrote the level of confidence in the sector was "at a very low point and diminishing daily", and that "no amount of spin or gloss...can alter that".

The letter comes after the Senate economics committee, after examining forgery allegations at CBA and alleged failures in enforcement at the companies' regulator, last week recommended a Royal Commission into the problems.

Mr O'Neill wrote the major drivers of the government's proposed reforms were the financial services industry and "major banks" which controlled "more than 80% of the advice sector".

"National Seniors has and continues to oppose the proposed changes because independent legal analysis concludes they provide for substantial consumer detriment," he wrote.

But the call for a Royal Commission has so far met with a lukewarm reception in senior government ranks, with Finance Minister Senator Mathias Cormann committing only that such issues would be looked at in the existing financial services review.

The government is yet to officially respond to the Senate inquiry's recommendations, and despite the concern about its financial advice reforms, appears likely to try to go ahead with the changes.

Business groups and Unions together on job pitch to Abbott - Toowoomba Chronicle

NEW JOBS boards need to be created in areas of high unemployment, like the Fraser Coast in Queensland and Northern Rivers in New South Wales, to help provide more jobs.

That was the take-out from a rare alliance of unions, social services groups and the business sector, pitching the idea publicly to the Abbott government on Monday.

The group, including the Australian Council of Social Service, Australian Council of Trade Unions and the Business Council of Australia, called for new "regional employment boards".

Key to the "partnerships approach" would be helping long-term unemployed people get and stay in jobs, in areas of entrenched unemployment, with the regional boards helping direct where resources should go.

The proposal would create "networks in regions with high unemployment to promote employment partnerships" with employers, industry groups, unions and training providers all involved.

ACOSS chief executive Dr Cassandra Goldie said such groups would help ensure the right training was delivered to the right people and "ensure lasting employment outcomes".

"It is critical that people currently excluded from the labour market are given support to participate, and at the same time, employers need to have a direct line of sight to disadvantaged jobseekers," she said.

BCA chief executive Jennifer Westacott said a better partnership in the employment services system would also help match people to the needs of employers, "the other crucial half of a successful job match".

While the proposal is yet to be official, the groups have called on both the Abbott government to create a national trial, with bigger employers and regional trials focused on a "network of regional employers".

Seniors group wants big banks to go to war with Government - Toowoomba Chronicle

OLDER Australians have urged the Big Four banks to "publicly denounce" the Abbott Government's changes to financial advice laws, in light of a Senate inquiry call for a Royal Commission into the issue.

The biggest seniors lobby group in Australia, National Seniors, has written to the chief executives ANZ, Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, and the National Australia Bank on Monday.

While the banks have largely backed improvements the Abbott Government is considering to Labor's Future of Financial Advice laws, they have not criticised worrying parts of the changes.

Critics of the legislation has included seniors groups, the industry superannuation sector and the financial advice industry, on the basis the government's changes could allow questionable commissions and potential conflicts of interest for advisors.

National Seniors chief executive Michael O'Neill's letter to the banks called on them to take the lead, after trust in the financial advice sector has deteriorated since a series of high profile collapses including the Storm Financial breakdown.

He wrote the level of confidence in the sector was "at a very low point and diminishing daily", and that "no amount of spin or gloss...can alter that".

The letter comes after the Senate economics committee, after examining forgery allegations at CBA and alleged failures in enforcement at the companies' regulator, last week recommended a Royal Commission into the problems.

Mr O'Neill wrote the major drivers of the government's proposed reforms were the financial services industry and "major banks" which controlled "more than 80% of the advice sector".

"National Seniors has and continues to oppose the proposed changes because independent legal analysis concludes they provide for substantial consumer detriment," he wrote.

But the call for a Royal Commission has so far met with a lukewarm reception in senior government ranks, with Finance Minister Senator Mathias Cormann committing only that such issues would be looked at in the existing financial services review.

The government is yet to officially respond to the Senate inquiry's recommendations, and despite the concern about its financial advice reforms, appears likely to try to go ahead with the changes.

Faster and cheaper dispute resolutions open up for housing - Toowoomba Chronicle

DISPUTES between home owners and builders can now be resolved faster and cheaper under changes to the Queensland Building and Construction Commission which come into effect today.

The commission, in addition to the introduction of an early dispute resolution service, will now offer an internal review process to allow anyone dissatisfied with its decision to have it reviewed without the need to appeal to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

Housing Minister Tim Mander said on Monday the new early dispute resolution service would make solving problems between builders and families far less stressful than in the past.

"Contract disputes are never pretty, but when you are talking about disputes between mums and dads who are making the biggest investment of their lives, and builders whose livelihoods could be on the line, it is only natural that emotions can run high," he said.

"In the past there was no assistance for families, or for builders, until the contract had either been terminated or completed, which meant the process could drag on for months.

"This new service will significantly reduce the cost that disputes can place on consumers and contractors as well as substantially reducing the time it takes to resolve them, without legal action."

Mr Mander said customers would be able to access information and advice from the commission at any time after the establishment of a 24/7 call centre.

For further information visit http://ift.tt/V1hMEQ or call the new hotline on 13 93 33.

Philip Morris buys e-cigarette maker Nicocigs - Toowoomba Chronicle

PHILIP Morris has snapped up one of Britain's fastest-growing electronic cigarette-makers, Nicocigs, as it warned profits from its traditional business will be lower than expected.

Nicocigs, was founded in 2008 and is based in Birmingham, is best known for its Nicolites brand.

Philip Morris, the owner of Marlboro, said the acquisition will give it "immediate access to, and a significant presence in, the growing e-vapour category in the UK market, as well as a strong retail presence".

Nicocigs has about 27 per cent of the UK's e-cigarette market, which has an estimated total retail value of $350 million (£206 million). The start-up employs 40 sales staff and distributes to 20,000 stores in Britain.

The purchase price for Nicocigs was undisclosed. The company reveals few financial details but it had amassed shareholder funds of £7.7 million by August 2013, according to Companies House. Nishil Nathwani, 27, is the leading shareholder.

The deal comes as Philip Morris, the world's biggest tobacco firm, cut its profits forecast by about 4 per cent to between $4.87 and $4.97 per share on poor sales and price-cutting in Australia.

The stock fell nearly 2 per cent in trading on the German stock market. Chief executive André Calantzopoulos warned that the firm faces "significant currency headwinds … and known challenges in Asia".

Calantzopoulos said the advent of e-cigarettes and other "reduced-risk" products means the tobacco industry is at "the early stage of a transformational process".

Philip Morris reckons it could make $700 million of profit from "reduced-risk" products if it can reach a target of selling 30 billion units. But it also said it will run up $495 million in redundancy costs in September as it stops production in the Netherlands.

Business groups and Unions together on job pitch to Abbott - Toowoomba Chronicle

NEW JOBS boards need to be created in areas of high unemployment, like the Fraser Coast in Queensland and Northern Rivers in New South Wales, to help provide more jobs.

That was the take-out from a rare alliance of unions, social services groups and the business sector, pitching the idea publicly to the Abbott government on Monday.

The group, including the Australian Council of Social Service, Australian Council of Trade Unions and the Business Council of Australia, called for new "regional employment boards".

Key to the "partnerships approach" would be helping long-term unemployed people get and stay in jobs, in areas of entrenched unemployment, with the regional boards helping direct where resources should go.

The proposal would create "networks in regions with high unemployment to promote employment partnerships" with employers, industry groups, unions and training providers all involved.

ACOSS chief executive Dr Cassandra Goldie said such groups would help ensure the right training was delivered to the right people and "ensure lasting employment outcomes".

"It is critical that people currently excluded from the labour market are given support to participate, and at the same time, employers need to have a direct line of sight to disadvantaged jobseekers," she said.

BCA chief executive Jennifer Westacott said a better partnership in the employment services system would also help match people to the needs of employers, "the other crucial half of a successful job match".

While the proposal is yet to be official, the groups have called on both the Abbott government to create a national trial, with bigger employers and regional trials focused on a "network of regional employers".

Seniors group wants big banks to go to war with Government - Toowoomba Chronicle

OLDER Australians have urged the Big Four banks to "publicly denounce" the Abbott Government's changes to financial advice laws, in light of a Senate inquiry call for a Royal Commission into the issue.

The biggest seniors lobby group in Australia, National Seniors, has written to the chief executives ANZ, Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, and the National Australia Bank on Monday.

While the banks have largely backed improvements the Abbott Government is considering to Labor's Future of Financial Advice laws, they have not criticised worrying parts of the changes.

Critics of the legislation has included seniors groups, the industry superannuation sector and the financial advice industry, on the basis the government's changes could allow questionable commissions and potential conflicts of interest for advisors.

National Seniors chief executive Michael O'Neill's letter to the banks called on them to take the lead, after trust in the financial advice sector has deteriorated since a series of high profile collapses including the Storm Financial breakdown.

He wrote the level of confidence in the sector was "at a very low point and diminishing daily", and that "no amount of spin or gloss...can alter that".

The letter comes after the Senate economics committee, after examining forgery allegations at CBA and alleged failures in enforcement at the companies' regulator, last week recommended a Royal Commission into the problems.

Mr O'Neill wrote the major drivers of the government's proposed reforms were the financial services industry and "major banks" which controlled "more than 80% of the advice sector".

"National Seniors has and continues to oppose the proposed changes because independent legal analysis concludes they provide for substantial consumer detriment," he wrote.

But the call for a Royal Commission has so far met with a lukewarm reception in senior government ranks, with Finance Minister Senator Mathias Cormann committing only that such issues would be looked at in the existing financial services review.

The government is yet to officially respond to the Senate inquiry's recommendations, and despite the concern about its financial advice reforms, appears likely to try to go ahead with the changes.