Deal done on new government services office at Toronto

DEAL SECURED ON GOVERNMENT SERVICES OFFICE AT TORONTO

Western Lake Macquarie residents have scored a victory in their campaign to retain access to government services in their area.

Independent Member for Lake Macquarie Greg Piper, who led a vocal community campaign against the State Government’s closure of the Toronto Motor Registry last year, has secured a commitment from the state government to establish a Service NSW kiosk at Toronto.

State Minister for Finance, Services and Property Dominic Perrottet has advised Mr Piper the digital kiosk will begin operations next Monday (March 21) inside Toronto Library.

It will be staffed with Service NSW personnel who can assist with all online government services including online motor vehicle and boat registrations and everything from Seniors Card and Gold Opal Card applications to fishing licence applications.

The cashless kiosk will fill some of the void left by the closure of the motor registry, Mr Piper said.

"It’s not everything we wanted but it’s a significant outcome given an alternative of nothing," Mr Piper said.

"I still want to see a full Service NSW office operating in Toronto, but this is a start which will hopefully prove to the government that an expanded Service NSW presence in Toronto is warranted.

"Unfortunately, for many people on the western side of the lake, the nearest full Service NSW office will be at Warners Bay or Wyong, but the kiosk will fill the gap for many people.

"I’m glad the minister has at least listened to my argument and listened to the nearly 11,000 local residents who signed the petition following closure of the motor registry. Having almost 11,000 people sign in less than two weeks was an amazing effort," he said.

Mr Piper thanked all the people who supported the campaign.