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By Ashleigh Peplow Ball, Bond University journalism student
The Queensland Government has abolished the Community Ambulance Cover levy in the 2011-2012 Budget, saving Varsity Lakes residents $113 each year.
Ambulance service has become free as of July 1, 2011 for all Queensland residents, with the State Government stepping in to cover the fee.
A government spokesperson said the annual saving would make a difference to the 4000 households in Varsity Lakes.
“The Queensland Government has taken steps to ease the cost of living on households,” he said.
“This initiative will be welcomed by Varsity families, pensioners and students.”
Varsity resident Jeremy Fitzpatrick, 19, was thrilled to hear about the annual saving.
“In this current economic climate money is tight, and any saving makes a difference,” Mr Fitzpatrick said.
“My housemates and I will spend the saved money on new appliances for the kitchen.”
However, Mr Fitzpatrick is one of 8700 Varsity residents that were disappointed to hear about the 13.29 percent increase in electricity costs this financial year.
Mr Fitzpatrick’s electricity statement from last quarter was $384, which with the rise in price would result in a $120 yearly increase in his electricity bill, offsetting the saving provided by the Ambulance Cover initiative.
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