Federal Budget sparks protest rally for Tweed residents

HUNDREDS of residents are set to converge in Tweed Heads on Thursday to rally against the Federal Government’s proposed budget cuts.

Len and Maureen Eres are not happy with the Abbott goverment. Picture: John Gass

HUNDREDS of residents are set to converge in Tweed Heads on Thursday to rally against the Federal Government's proposed budget cuts.

The GP co-payment of $7 per doctor's visit, reductions to the PBS scheme and forecasted increases to utility bills top the agenda for the rally goers, mostly retirees.

Maureen Eyers of Banora Point, 74, and her husband Len, 76, have made up a sign to protest on the day.

"We were told we were getting what we voted for but Len and I didn't vote for this," Mrs Eyers said.

"If these savage cuts are introduced our savings will rapidly decrease and we'll end up with nothing," Mrs Eyers said.

The Eyers visit the doctors fours time a week and are concerned about increases to council rates.

They're also worried about vulnerable members of the Tweed community.

"There are loads of people far more badly off than my husband and I, and where will they turn to?

"They don't have money invested to turn to when they're in need. I believe the low-income people need help," Mrs Eyers said.

The Eyers think the Abbott government designed the budget to re-shape Australia.

"My feeling is the government is trying to make Australia a two-class system, like China, with only the rich and poor," Mrs Eyers said.

"The system goes wrong by not taxing more the people who have huge amounts of money.

"I want to voice my complaints and my beliefs.

"It's not advisable or wise to back people into a corner," Mrs Eyers said.

A spokesperson from Richmond MP Justine Elliot's office said: "I hope the venue is going to be big enough for this rally."

Join in

What: Fair Go Federal Budget protest rally

When: Thursday, June 12, 10am

Where: Tweed Civic Centre