•Clover Moore wants 15 per cent of every electronic billboard for city

•City of Sydney argues it should have the free advertising space for ‘public benefit’

•660 car spaces lost to Sydney CBD as a result Moore’s bike lanes obsession

SYDNEY Lord Mayor Clover Moore wants advertisers using electronic billboards in the city to give her 15 per cent of their ad space — so she can promote herself for free. 
 
The messages she wants to get out there — without paying for it — include her support for worm farms, and instructions on how to keep bees in the inner city.

The latest bizarre idea from Ms Moore comes as Sydney council launches a review of outdoor advertising regulations in response to growing demand for big flashy billboards.

The review, which will be completed by August, is designed to protect sensitive locations and shield residents and motorists from bright billboards.

http://resources0.news.com.au/images/2015/05/18/1227359/542020-5d5a9d60-fd57-11e4-9430-4717fa7bce71.jpg

But industry body the Outdoor Media Association opposes key parts of it, including a blanket ban on converting existing ads into electronic signage in locations including Millers Point, Circular Quay, Bridge St and Town Hall.

It has also refused to accept Mr Moore’s demands that 15 per cent of “electronic variable content” ad space is made freely available for the council to promote itself.

City of Sydney argues it should have the free advertising space for “public benefit”, in accordance with state planning laws.

It claims a precedent for the 15 per cent level was set during a ruling by the NSW Land and Environment Court on a billboard near the Coca-Cola sign on Darlinghurst Rd.

In an example of the material it could run, City of Sydney pointed to an advert directing viewers to its Green Villages website, which contains a message from Ms Moore as well as information about worm farms.

One article about “sustainable meat and fish” advises people to eat less. Under the heading “Eat Less” it says: “How many servings of meat, dairy, seafood or eggs do you have each day? For many Australians, that number has been steadily growing for the last 60 years.”

Another article describes how to become an urban beekeeper.

The Outdoor Media Association described the city’s demand for 15 per cent advertising space as “unlawful”.

The OMA’s submission added: “Advertising plays a fundamental economic role in Australian society, with an overall spend of $11.6 billion in 2014. Last year the out-of-home industry raised revenue of $602 million, making up approximately 5.2 per cent of advertising spend in Australia.

“By limiting the advertising spaces available, many integral community members will be affected including local businesses, tourism operators, art institutions and charities.”


Lord Mayor parks reason in search for cycling nirvana

Miles Godfrey

A WHOPPING 660 car parking spaces have been ripped out of the Sydney CBD as a result of Lord Mayor Clover Moore’s $64 million obsession with bike lanes.

Ms Moore has built 13.4km of cycle lanes and recently unveiled plans for another 10 routes — two scheduled to be built later this year, during the upheaval caused by the George Street light rail construction.

The new lanes are being funded by City of Sydney and managed by the state government.

Since 2007 the city council has spent $64 million on “streetscape upgrades”, including huge stretches of separated bike paths — with five more kilometres being planned or built.

http://resources3.news.com.au/images/2015/05/18/1227359/541939-e7e91250-fd47-11e4-a44b-5c351aa4c1fd.jpg

The cost to motorists from the construction work so far was revealed last night as Ms Moore said 660 car kerbside parking spaces have been torn up to make way for cycle paths.

Councillor Christine Forster — who forced Ms Moore to reveal the figure with a question on notice during last night’s full council meeting — slammed the situation.

“This is a massive loss of on-street parking and reflects the city’s cavalier attitude to the community’s need for what is an incredibly scarce and valuable asset for our residents and businesses,” she said.

“When we plan our new bicycle and footpath infrastructure, we should be going to whatever lengths it takes to preserve as much parking as possible on city streets.”

Ms Moore defended the loss of car parking spaces and said it amounted to two per cent of the 39,000 on-street car spots on City of Sydney’s local government area.

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/attempted-billboard-heist-just-another-sign-of-clover-moores-town-gall/story-fni0cx12-1227359542156

If I lived in Sydney, I'd move out of the Council area just to be rid of this toxic woman and her ridiculous thought bubbles.

when you read stuff like this.. it makes you want to vote for amalgamation of local councils.....something happens to people when they get these jobs.. they think they become royalty...

maybe its time they had a two term only for these pompous wannabees..

cods wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 8:43am:

when you read stuff like this.. it makes you want to vote for amalgamation of local councils.....something happens to people when they get these jobs.. they think they become royalty... maybe its time they had a two term only for these pompous wannabees..

When you read stuff like this, it makes you want to see the end of all Councils. Or there's this one: http://www.coffscoastadvocate.com.au/news/japan-park-plan-outrage-tensions-boil-over-in-play/2639044/

The more cycle paths the better. Its good for people generally and for the environment, unless of course you are happy with your obesity and are addicted to Beijing air.  If business is going to pollute our skies with their repugnant messages all over the place I see nothing wrong with requiring them to devote 15% of the space they are polluting to worthwhile community messages. 

I don't expect you to understand this but there are some positive community benefits to Clover Moore's proposals but all you reproduce here (you can only reproduce, you can't think it up for yourself) is an absurd exaggerated account of what a disaster it's bound to be.  Why? Because your string pullers financial interests may be affected. If you ever privatly assess these thing for yourself do you ever want to give some thought to what may be good for the community instead of what is good or bad for business. 

ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 8:53am:

The more cycle paths the better. Its good for people generally and for the environment, unless of course you are happy with your obesity and are addicted to Beijing air.  If business is going to pollute our skies with their repugnant messages all over the place I see nothing wrong with requiring them to devote 15% of the space they are polluting to worthwhile community messages.  I don't expect you to understand this but there are some positive community benefits to Clover Moore's proposals but all you reproduce here (you can only reproduce, you can't think it up for yourself) is an absurd exaggerated account of what a disaster it's bound to be.  Why? Because your string pullers financial interests may be affected. If you ever privatly assess these thing for yourself do you ever want to give some thought to what may be good for the community instead of what is good or bad for business.

People tend to not go shopping in the City on their pushbikes. Most people do that with their car. Swallowing up car parking spaces with cycle paths that very few people actually use is just hurting businesses in affected areas. If you've ever driven or walked through those areas, you'd know this and agree with me.

Armchair_Politician wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 8:59am:

ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 8:53am: The more cycle paths the better. Its good for people generally and for the environment, unless of course you are happy with your obesity and are addicted to Beijing air.  If business is going to pollute our skies with their repugnant messages all over the place I see nothing wrong with requiring them to devote 15% of the space they are polluting to worthwhile community messages.  I don't expect you to understand this but there are some positive community benefits to Clover Moore's proposals but all you reproduce here (you can only reproduce, you can't think it up for yourself) is an absurd exaggerated account of what a disaster it's bound to be.  Why? Because your string pullers financial interests may be affected. If you ever privatly assess these thing for yourself do you ever want to give some thought to what may be good for the community instead of what is good or bad for business.  People tend to not go shopping in the City on their pushbikes. Most people do that with their car. Swallowing up car parking spaces with cycle paths that very few people actually use is just hurting businesses in affected areas. If you've ever driven or walked through those areas, you'd know this and agree with me.

I have never driven in the Sydney CBD, not for shopping or anything else. Drive to the outer suburbs and then use public transport. The public transport system in Sydney is actually pretty good.

Only an idiot would claim more bikes is a bad thing, how do all those Chinese do their shopping armpit? :D :D :D

More (pun intended) ochlocracy in action, more (pun intended) taxation without representation........another case for small business rate payers to get a vote in council elections.

Armchair_Politician wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 8:59am:

ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 8:53am: The more cycle paths the better. Its good for people generally and for the environment, unless of course you are happy with your obesity and are addicted to Beijing air.  If business is going to pollute our skies with their repugnant messages all over the place I see nothing wrong with requiring them to devote 15% of the space they are polluting to worthwhile community messages.  I don't expect you to understand this but there are some positive community benefits to Clover Moore's proposals but all you reproduce here (you can only reproduce, you can't think it up for yourself) is an absurd exaggerated account of what a disaster it's bound to be.  Why? Because your string pullers financial interests may be affected. If you ever privatly assess these thing for yourself do you ever want to give some thought to what may be good for the community instead of what is good or bad for business.  People tend to not go shopping in the City on their pushbikes. Most people do that with their car. Swallowing up car parking spaces with cycle paths that very few people actually use is just hurting businesses in affected areas. If you've ever driven or walked through those areas, you'd know this and agree with me.

Yes, for the moment lets just say that all that is true.  But what about the good things it can bring.  Cars are turning our innercity roads into a nightmare. I drive to the innercity of sydney (from canberra) about once a month and I can see why city people are so on edge. Encouraging people to use bikes instead of cars can alleviate that. Also, 5 years ago I was headed for a heart attack. I started riding my bike and I can tell you from personal experience it has been nothing less then wonderful in every respect.  I'm extremely health (great heart now), I'm fantastic in the bedroom with no drugs needed and I save a hep of money, not to mention the good I'm doing for the air and the environment. Now your DT article mentioned none of that, just simply went hysterical about what a disaster of an idea it was because it made some business people (whop are also headed for a heart attack) unhappy.  Why don't you put your ideology for your fellow man ahead of your ideology for business.          

ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 9:10am:

Armchair_Politician wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 8:59am: ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 8:53am: The more cycle paths the better. Its good for people generally and for the environment, unless of course you are happy with your obesity and are addicted to Beijing air.  If business is going to pollute our skies with their repugnant messages all over the place I see nothing wrong with requiring them to devote 15% of the space they are polluting to worthwhile community messages.  I don't expect you to understand this but there are some positive community benefits to Clover Moore's proposals but all you reproduce here (you can only reproduce, you can't think it up for yourself) is an absurd exaggerated account of what a disaster it's bound to be.  Why? Because your string pullers financial interests may be affected. If you ever privatly assess these thing for yourself do you ever want to give some thought to what may be good for the community instead of what is good or bad for business.  People tend to not go shopping in the City on their pushbikes. Most people do that with their car. Swallowing up car parking spaces with cycle paths that very few people actually use is just hurting businesses in affected areas. If you've ever driven or walked through those areas, you'd know this and agree with me. Yes, for the moment lets just say that all that is true.  But what about the good things it can bring.  Cars are turning our innercity roads into a nightmare. I drive to the innercity of sydney (from canberra) about once a month and I can see why city people are so on edge. Encouraging people to use bikes instead of cars can alleviate that. Also, 5 years ago I was headed for a heart attack. I started riding my bike and I can tell you from personal experience it has been nothing less then wonderful in every respect.  I'm extremely health (great heart now), I'm fantastic in the bedroom with no drugs needed and I save a hep of money, not to mention the good I'm doing for the air and the environment. Now your DT article mentioned none of that, just simply went hysterical about what a disaster of an idea it was because it made some business people (whop are also headed for a heart attack) unhappy.  Why don't you put your ideology for your fellow man ahead of your ideology for business.

Glad you're okay after your health scare, but lets be practical. Most people I know who work in the CBD live outside the city. Sydney's public transport isn't all that great and many of those friends of mine do shift work, making public transport less desirable for obvious reasons. You certainly can't ride a bike from Penrith into the CBD - it's way too far. Clover needs to accept that cars still have a use these days and that trying to force people onto bikes is simply foolish.

John Smith wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 9:04am:

Armchair_Politician wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 8:59am: ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 8:53am: The more cycle paths the better. Its good for people generally and for the environment, unless of course you are happy with your obesity and are addicted to Beijing air.  If business is going to pollute our skies with their repugnant messages all over the place I see nothing wrong with requiring them to devote 15% of the space they are polluting to worthwhile community messages.  I don't expect you to understand this but there are some positive community benefits to Clover Moore's proposals but all you reproduce here (you can only reproduce, you can't think it up for yourself) is an absurd exaggerated account of what a disaster it's bound to be.  Why? Because your string pullers financial interests may be affected. If you ever privatly assess these thing for yourself do you ever want to give some thought to what may be good for the community instead of what is good or bad for business.  People tend to not go shopping in the City on their pushbikes. Most people do that with their car. Swallowing up car parking spaces with cycle paths that very few people actually use is just hurting businesses in affected areas. If you've ever driven or walked through those areas, you'd know this and agree with me. I have never driven in the Sydney CBD, not for shopping or anything else. Drive to the outer suburbs and then use public transport. The public transport system in Sydney is actually pretty good. Only an idiot would claim more bikes is a bad thing, how do all those Chinese do their shopping armpit? :D :D :D

You mean like this?

http://d.ibtimes.co.uk/en/full/1393054/overloaded-motorbike.jpg

Swagman wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 9:10am:

More (pun intended) ochlocracy in action, more (pun intended) taxation without representation........another case for small business rate payers to get a vote in council elections.

I hope one day you'll stop counting money and take the time to consider the benefits of living in a community where the dog eat dog struggle is just that little bit less even thoughj it might cost you just a little bit more. If my recollection is correct the Scandinavian countries consistently top the world happiness scales even though they have higher taxation (but receive more comprehensive and better government programs in return).    

Armchair_Politician wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 9:18am:

John Smith wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 9:04am: Armchair_Politician wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 8:59am: ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 8:53am: The more cycle paths the better. Its good for people generally and for the environment, unless of course you are happy with your obesity and are addicted to Beijing air.  If business is going to pollute our skies with their repugnant messages all over the place I see nothing wrong with requiring them to devote 15% of the space they are polluting to worthwhile community messages.  I don't expect you to understand this but there are some positive community benefits to Clover Moore's proposals but all you reproduce here (you can only reproduce, you can't think it up for yourself) is an absurd exaggerated account of what a disaster it's bound to be.  Why? Because your string pullers financial interests may be affected. If you ever privatly assess these thing for yourself do you ever want to give some thought to what may be good for the community instead of what is good or bad for business.  People tend to not go shopping in the City on their pushbikes. Most people do that with their car. Swallowing up car parking spaces with cycle paths that very few people actually use is just hurting businesses in affected areas. If you've ever driven or walked through those areas, you'd know this and agree with me. I have never driven in the Sydney CBD, not for shopping or anything else. Drive to the outer suburbs and then use public transport. The public transport system in Sydney is actually pretty good. Only an idiot would claim more bikes is a bad thing, how do all those Chinese do their shopping armpit? :D :D :D You mean like this? http://d.ibtimes.co.uk/en/full/1393054/overloaded-motorbike.jpg

I'm taking it that you don't really think that's an argument for anything.

ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 9:20am:

Swagman wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 9:10am: More (pun intended) ochlocracy in action, more (pun intended) taxation without representation........another case for small business rate payers to get a vote in council elections. I hope one day you'll stop counting money and take the time to consider the benefits of living in a community where the dog eat dog struggle is just that little bit less even thoughj it might cost you just a little bit more. If my recollection is correct the Scandinavian countries consistently top the world happiness scales even though they have higher taxation (but receive more comprehensive and better government programs in return).

I've noted this numerous times on this forum. Can you see the ALP and Unions going for something like that, even if in the end, you could get free healthcare, free education, free public transport, etc, etc? No - not  chance!

Armchair_Politician wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 9:16am:

ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 9:10am: Armchair_Politician wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 8:59am: ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 8:53am: The more cycle paths the better. Its good for people generally and for the environment, unless of course you are happy with your obesity and are addicted to Beijing air.  If business is going to pollute our skies with their repugnant messages all over the place I see nothing wrong with requiring them to devote 15% of the space they are polluting to worthwhile community messages.  I don't expect you to understand this but there are some positive community benefits to Clover Moore's proposals but all you reproduce here (you can only reproduce, you can't think it up for yourself) is an absurd exaggerated account of what a disaster it's bound to be.  Why? Because your string pullers financial interests may be affected. If you ever privatly assess these thing for yourself do you ever want to give some thought to what may be good for the community instead of what is good or bad for business.  People tend to not go shopping in the City on their pushbikes. Most people do that with their car. Swallowing up car parking spaces with cycle paths that very few people actually use is just hurting businesses in affected areas. If you've ever driven or walked through those areas, you'd know this and agree with me. Yes, for the moment lets just say that all that is true.  But what about the good things it can bring.  Cars are turning our innercity roads into a nightmare. I drive to the innercity of sydney (from canberra) about once a month and I can see why city people are so on edge. Encouraging people to use bikes instead of cars can alleviate that. Also, 5 years ago I was headed for a heart attack. I started riding my bike and I can tell you from personal experience it has been nothing less then wonderful in every respect.  I'm extremely health (great heart now), I'm fantastic in the bedroom with no drugs needed and I save a hep of money, not to mention the good I'm doing for the air and the environment. Now your DT article mentioned none of that, just simply went hysterical about what a disaster of an idea it was because it made some business people (whop are also headed for a heart attack) unhappy.  Why don't you put your ideology for your fellow man ahead of your ideology for business.           Glad you're okay after your health scare, but lets be practical. Most people I know who work in the CBD live outside the city. Sydney's public transport isn't all that great and many of those friends of mine do shift work, making public transport less desirable for obvious reasons. You certainly can't ride a bike from Penrith into the CBD - it's way too far. Clover needs to accept that cars still have a use these days and that trying to force people onto bikes is simply foolish.

Yes but consider this. You and your mates can't be expected to hop on a bike form Penrith to the sydney CBD but those living in sydney can, which will alleviate the traffic conditions you encounter when you drive into the city, which in turn will alleviate conditions for the public transport system. Also I don't think this proposal in any way suggests that Ms Moore believes that cars have no place today and nor is it accurate to suggest that by providing people with the facility to use bikes amounts to forcing people to use bikes. I'm not asking you to agree with me but to consider the possibility that that article is trying to bully it's readers into accepting one point of view before they can give any real consideration to the possible advantages of the alternative point of view. 

Armchair_Politician wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 9:22am:

ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 9:20am: Swagman wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 9:10am: More (pun intended) ochlocracy in action, more (pun intended) taxation without representation........another case for small business rate payers to get a vote in council elections. I hope one day you'll stop counting money and take the time to consider the benefits of living in a community where the dog eat dog struggle is just that little bit less even thoughj it might cost you just a little bit more. If my recollection is correct the Scandinavian countries consistently top the world happiness scales even though they have higher taxation (but receive more comprehensive and better government programs in return).     I've noted this numerous times on this forum. Can you see the ALP and Unions going for something like that, even if in the end, you could get free healthcare, free education, free public transport, etc, etc? No - not  chance!

What are you saying that there would be more opposition from the ALP and the Trade Unions then the Coalition and their Business Union affiliates?

She is a nutjob, I agree.

Weird looking bitch.

Redmond Neck wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 10:08am:

She is a nutjob, I agree. Weird looking bitch.

Well that says it all, scrap the bicycle paths

Clover Moore has been re-elected what 3 times now.

After the shock jocks have given it their best shot

After the LNP have tried to change laws & voting rules

Why would that be????????

Because voters are dumb as Teaspoon(irony?) suggests?

Or maybe she provides the sort of government people actually benefit from.

I also note the most important criteria for governance thankfully has been addressed here, the way a person looks.

F.F.S you pathetic sheep, when are you going for your Ray Hadley teeth construction & your Alan Jones hair appointment

ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 9:20am:

Swagman wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 9:10am: More (pun intended) ochlocracy in action, more (pun intended) taxation without representation........another case for small business rate payers to get a vote in council elections. I hope one day you'll stop counting money and take the time to consider the benefits of living in a community where the dog eat dog struggle is just that little bit less even thoughj it might cost you just a little bit more. If my recollection is correct the Scandinavian countries consistently top the world happiness scales even though they have higher taxation (but receive more comprehensive and better government programs in return).

So when are you immigrating to Norway?

That would still be 'ochlocracy' in action and taxation without representation.

Armchair_Politician wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 8:59am:

ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 8:53am: The more cycle paths the better. Its good for people generally and for the environment, unless of course you are happy with your obesity and are addicted to Beijing air.  If business is going to pollute our skies with their repugnant messages all over the place I see nothing wrong with requiring them to devote 15% of the space they are polluting to worthwhile community messages.  I don't expect you to understand this but there are some positive community benefits to Clover Moore's proposals but all you reproduce here (you can only reproduce, you can't think it up for yourself) is an absurd exaggerated account of what a disaster it's bound to be.  Why? Because your string pullers financial interests may be affected. If you ever privatly assess these thing for yourself do you ever want to give some thought to what may be good for the community instead of what is good or bad for business.  People tend to not go shopping in the City on their pushbikes. Most people do that with their car. Swallowing up car parking spaces with cycle paths that very few people actually use is just hurting businesses in affected areas. If you've ever driven or walked through those areas, you'd know this and agree with me.

What?  Anyone who drives into the city is a mug.  The fact is, the more liveable a city becomes, the more residents it gains.  Local residents = better for business.

Armchair_Politician wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 9:16am:

ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 9:10am: Armchair_Politician wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 8:59am: ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 8:53am: The more cycle paths the better. Its good for people generally and for the environment, unless of course you are happy with your obesity and are addicted to Beijing air.  If business is going to pollute our skies with their repugnant messages all over the place I see nothing wrong with requiring them to devote 15% of the space they are polluting to worthwhile community messages.  I don't expect you to understand this but there are some positive community benefits to Clover Moore's proposals but all you reproduce here (you can only reproduce, you can't think it up for yourself) is an absurd exaggerated account of what a disaster it's bound to be.  Why? Because your string pullers financial interests may be affected. If you ever privatly assess these thing for yourself do you ever want to give some thought to what may be good for the community instead of what is good or bad for business.  People tend to not go shopping in the City on their pushbikes. Most people do that with their car. Swallowing up car parking spaces with cycle paths that very few people actually use is just hurting businesses in affected areas. If you've ever driven or walked through those areas, you'd know this and agree with me. Yes, for the moment lets just say that all that is true.  But what about the good things it can bring.  Cars are turning our innercity roads into a nightmare. I drive to the innercity of sydney (from canberra) about once a month and I can see why city people are so on edge. Encouraging people to use bikes instead of cars can alleviate that. Also, 5 years ago I was headed for a heart attack. I started riding my bike and I can tell you from personal experience it has been nothing less then wonderful in every respect.  I'm extremely health (great heart now), I'm fantastic in the bedroom with no drugs needed and I save a hep of money, not to mention the good I'm doing for the air and the environment. Now your DT article mentioned none of that, just simply went hysterical about what a disaster of an idea it was because it made some business people (whop are also headed for a heart attack) unhappy.  Why don't you put your ideology for your fellow man ahead of your ideology for business.           Glad you're okay after your health scare, but lets be practical. Most people I know who work in the CBD live outside the city. Sydney's public transport isn't all that great and many of those friends of mine do shift work, making public transport less desirable for obvious reasons. You certainly can't ride a bike from Penrith into the CBD - it's way too far. Clover needs to accept that cars still have a use these days and that trying to force people onto bikes is simply foolish.

Anyone who works in the city won't use short term off street parking. They use early bird underground parking.  Which btw can be built to replace these 660 spots, resulting in best of both worlds.

Your reliance on the dt is making you lose your ability to critically think.

Dsmithy70 wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 11:04am:

Clover Moore has been re-elected what 3 times now. After the shock jocks have given it their best shot After the LNP have tried to change laws & voting rules Why would that be???????? Because voters are dumb as Teaspoon(irony?) suggests? Or maybe she provides the sort of government people actually benefit from. I also note the most important criteria for governance thankfully has been addressed here, the way a person looks. F.F.S you pathetic sheep, when are you going for your Ray Hadley teeth construction & your Alan Jones hair appointment

Well - she certainly provides the sort of entertainment that many want....

Swagman wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 12:06pm:

ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 9:20am: Swagman wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 9:10am: More (pun intended) ochlocracy in action, more (pun intended) taxation without representation........another case for small business rate payers to get a vote in council elections. I hope one day you'll stop counting money and take the time to consider the benefits of living in a community where the dog eat dog struggle is just that little bit less even thoughj it might cost you just a little bit more. If my recollection is correct the Scandinavian countries consistently top the world happiness scales even though they have higher taxation (but receive more comprehensive and better government programs in return).     So when are you immigrating to Norway? That would still be 'ochlocracy' in action and taxation without representation.

I'm not troubled by immigrating to Norway (but I doubt they'll let me)  though at this stage in life I suspect I will be happier staying in Australia. That's OK, there's no reason why we cant learn from Norway's experience for building a better society for all in this country. 

Swagman wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 12:06pm:

o when are you immigrating to Norway?

the only country to continually out ranks Australia as 'Best country to live in'  .... and it's not because of their -40 temps.

:D :D

Dsmithy70 wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 11:04am:

Clover Moore has been re-elected what 3 times now. After the shock jocks have given it their best shot After the LNP have tried to change laws & voting rules Why would that be???????? Because voters are dumb as Teaspoon(irony?) suggests? Or maybe she provides the sort of government people actually benefit from. I also note the most important criteria for governance thankfully has been addressed here, the way a person looks. F.F.S you pathetic sheep, when are you going for your Ray Hadley teeth construction & your Alan Jones hair appointment

Clover Moore had to be one of the most popular MPs in state parliament. Every local I ever talked to in her electorate had nothing but fantastic things to say about her. She listened, she heard, she got things done, and she got things done in record time. She had connections in all tiers of government and responded to the most petty and mundane requests. More importantly, she acted on them - she still does.

Clover Moore has got to where she is through her work alone. She has no party, no big political donors, no electoral war chest. She has pierced through the age-old system of developer payoffs and big money, and this is why the Tele, Ray Hadley and Alan hate her. The grown-ups so badly want to be back in charge.

John Smith wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 2:09pm:

Swagman wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 12:06pm: o when are you immigrating to Norway? the only country to continually out ranks Australia as 'Best country to live in'  .... and it's not because of their -40 temps. :D :D

Yes a 25% VAT (GST) and the world's 8th largest oil exporter....

Lots of 'cabbage' to be had

ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 2:07pm:

I'm not troubled by immigrating to Norway (but I doubt they'll let me)  though at this stage in life I suspect I will be happier staying in Australia. That's OK, there's no reason why we cant learn from Norway's experience for building a better society for all in this country.

Yes these Scandinavians all have high regressive taxes.  Norway with 25%.

Swagman wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 5:34pm:

ImSpartacus2 wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 2:07pm:       I'm not troubled by immigrating to Norway (but I doubt they'll let me)  though at this stage in life I suspect I will be happier staying in Australia. That's OK, there's no reason why we cant learn from Norway's experience for building a better society for all in this country.  Yes these Scandinavians all have high regressive taxes.  Norway with 25%.

I didn't say they were perfect. I said we could learn from their experience, mistakes as well as successes. 

Swagman wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 5:31pm:

John Smith wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 2:09pm: Swagman wrote on May 19th, 2015 at 12:06pm: o when are you immigrating to Norway? the only country to continually out ranks Australia as 'Best country to live in'  .... and it's not because of their -40 temps. :D :D Yes a 25% VAT (GST) and the world's 8th largest oil exporter.... Lots of 'cabbage' to be had

you seen the incomes they get to pay that VAT?

                     

Country                     Norway
Company  Tax                    27%
Minimum Income Tax            0%
Maximum Income Tax         47.2% (includes 8.2% pension contribution)
Payroll  Tax                          0%-14.1%
GST/VAT                            25% or 15% (food and drink in shops) or 8% (transportation, cinema, hotel rooms)



Country                   Australia
Company  Tax            30% (28.5% from 2015)
Minimum Income Tax    0%
Maximum Income Tax  49% (49% from 2015 to 2017, inc 2% Medicare levy)
Payroll  Tax                  4.75%-6% (state)
GST/VAT                    10% GST (0% on essential items)

You work it out to suit yourself.  You need a complete list of all taxes to work out the true value of taxation here... and there... and compare them.  Simply comparing the basic taxes is nowhere near the true story....

Too 'ard.....

Less slavery in Norway it appears...that's why they're happier  :D

Swagman wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 7:52pm:

Less slavery in Norway it appears...that's why they're happier  :D

Really Swagi?
Why is that?

Norway

Norway has both administrative and political subdivisions on two levels, known as counties (fylke) and municipalities (kommune).

The country maintains a combination of market economy and a Nordic welfare model with universal health care and a comprehensive social security system. Norway has extensive reserves of petroleum, natural gas, minerals, lumber, seafood, fresh water, and hydropower. The petroleum industry accounts for around a quarter of the country's gross domestic product.

The country has the fourth-highest per capita income in the world on the World Bank and IMF lists, as well as ninth-highest on a more comprehensive CIA list. On a per-capita basis, it is the world's largest producer of oil and natural gas outside the Middle East.

On a per-capita basis, it is the world's largest producer of oil and natural gas outside the Middle East. From 2001 to 2006, and then again from 2009 to 2014, Norway had the highest Human Development Index ranking in the world. Norway has also topped the Legatum Prosperity Index for the last five years.

Norway is considered to be one of the most developed democracies and states of justice in the world. Norway was classified as the world's most democratic country by the Democracy Index.

Norwegians enjoy the second-highest GDP per-capita among European countries (after Luxembourg), and the fourth-highest GDP (PPP) per-capita in the world. Today, Norway ranks as the second-wealthiest country in the world in monetary value, with the largest capital reserve per capita of any nation.

According to the CIA World Factbook, Norway is a net external creditor of debt.

The standard of living in Norway is among the highest in the world.

The OECD ranks Norway fourth in the 2013 equalised Better Life Index and third in intergenerational earnings elasticity.

The Norwegian economy is an example of a mixed economy, a prosperous capitalist welfare state and social democracy country featuring a combination of free market activity and large state ownership in certain key sectors. Public health care is free (above a certain level), and parents have 46 weeks paid parental leave.

Norway has a very low unemployment rate, currently 2.6%. 69% of the population aged 15–74 are employed.

30% of the labour force are employed by the government, the highest in the OECD.

The hourly productivity levels, as well as average hourly wages in Norway, are among the highest in the world.

The egalitarian values of Norwegian society have kept the wage difference between the lowest paid worker and the CEO of most companies as much less than in comparable western economies.

The state has large ownership positions in key industrial sectors, such as the strategic petroleum sector (Statoil and Aker Solutions), hydroelectric energy production (Statkraft), aluminium production (Norsk Hydro), the largest Norwegian bank (DnB NOR), and telecommunication provider (Telenor). Through these big companies, the government controls approximately 30% of the stock values at the Oslo Stock Exchange.

The country is richly endowed with natural resources including petroleum, hydropower, fish, forests, and minerals. Large reserves of petroleum and natural gas were discovered in the 1960s, which led to a boom in the economy. Norway has obtained one of the highest standards of living in the world in part by having a large amount of natural resources compared to the size of the population. In 2011, 28% of state revenues were generated from the petroleum industry.

Export revenues from oil and gas have risen to almost 50% of total exports and constitute more than 20% of the GDP. Norway is the fifth-largest oil exporter and third-largest gas exporter in the world, but it is not a member of OPEC. In 1995 the Norwegian government established the sovereign wealth fund ("Government Pension Fund — Global"), which would be funded with oil revenues, including taxes, dividends, sales revenues and licensing fees.

The government controls its petroleum resources through a combination of state ownership in major operators in the oil fields (with approximately 62% ownership in Statoil in 2007) and the fully state-owned Petoro, which has a market value of about twice Statoil, and SDFI. Finally, the government controls licensing of exploration and production of fields.

In August 2014, the Government Pension Fund controlled assets were valued at approximately US$870 billion (equal to US$173,000 per capita) which is about 174% of Norway's current GDP. It is the largest sovereign wealth fund in the world.

As most western countries struggle with burgeoning foreign debt, Norway remains a nation of stowed-away wealth, financial stability, and economic power. In spite of the crisis, Norway in 2009 still had a 9% state budget surplus, and was the only western country to run a surplus as of July of that year.

Norway's population was 5,096,300 people in October 2013.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norway
=====================================================
Sounds like a good Socialist 'ochlocracy', hey Swagi???

Armchair_Politician wrote on May 19^th, 2015 at 8:24am:

Who re-elects this ''nutjob'' ???

The MAJORITY - in a DEMOCRACY ???