Today, I am announcing the process for the lodgement of pre-budget submissions for the 1998-99 Budget.

The Government places considerable importance on receiving community views in developing its budget strategies and policies.

Accordingly, the Government would welcome submissions from individuals, business and community groups on their views regarding the strategy for the 1998-99 Budget.

The deadline for submissions is 20 February 1998. It would be advisable for those interested in making submissions, to do so as soon as possible, given that budget deliberations commence early in the New Year. It would also be helpful if submissions include a short executive summary of no more than two pages. An overview of submissions will not be published in view of the limited demand for last year’s publication.

Submissions should be forwarded to me at the address below.

Contact: John Hill (Dept. of the Treasury)

(02) 6263 3874 (bh)

CANBERRA

27 January 1998

Address for Submissions:

Budget Policy Branch

Department of the Treasury

Parkes Place

PARKES ACT 2600