Frequently Asked Questions

How do I request a NSW State Flag?

NSW State Flags are free of charge to a range of charitable and community groups with facilities to permit proper flying or display the flag. This includes RSL sub-branches, Rotary and Lions Club, scout groups and youth associations. Please contact my office to request a NSW State flag.

Do you provide congratulatory messages?

As your local MP, I can provide congratulatory messages and also assist you in applying for a congratulatory message from the Premier, Prime Minister, the Governor-General, and the King.

The Premier sends messages of congratulations for 50th and all subsequent wedding anniversaries. The Premier also sends messages for 80th birthdays and every fifth year up to 90, then every year thereafter.

In some instances, messages of congratulations can also be given by the Prime Minister, the Governor-General, and the King.

More information is available from the Department of Premier and Cabinet.

Please contact my office to request a congratulatory message.

What issues are the responsibility of State Government?

If your problem falls into one of the categories below I may be able to help by seeking information and making representations to the relevant Minister or Department.

  • Community Health and Dental
  • Public Hospitals
  • Education
  • Land and Water Management
  • Industrial Relations
  • Primary Industries and Agriculture
  • Public Housing
  • Main Roads
  • Public Works
  • Emergency Services
  • National Parks
  • Public Transport
  • Ageing and Disability
  • Community Services
  • Police
  • Fair Trading
  • Multiculturalism
  • Medical Research
What issues are the responsibility of Local Government?

If your issue is in the following list, you need to contact Orange City Council, Cabonne Shire Council, Parkes Shire Council and Forbes Shire Council.

  • Local roads and footpaths
  • Rubbish collection
  • Rates
  • Sporting fields and parks
  • Street lighting and signage
  • Residential and commercial development
  • Animal control
What issues are the responsibility of the Federal Government?

If you have a Federal Government issue you should contact your local Federal Member. The Electorate is covered by either Andrew Gee MP (Member for Calare) or Michael McCormack MP (Member for Riverina).

  • Taxation
  • Aged Care
  • Trade
  • Foreign Affairs
  • Higher Education
  • Defence
  • Aviation and Shipping
  • Telecommunications
  • National Highways
  • Veterans’ Affairs
  • Medicare
  • Centrelink
  • Child Support
How do I book an appointment with Phil?

Complete the Request for Appointment Form either online or download and return it to my office via email orange@parliament.nsw.gov.au or mail or drop it in to 194a Lords Place, Orange NSW 2800.

What procedure is involved with raising a State Government matter?

Complete the Constituent Enquiry Form either online or download and return it to the office via email orange@parliament.nsw.gov.au or mail or drop it in to 194a Lords Place, Orange NSW 2800.

 

The process begins with my office reviewing your concerns and if appropriate I will make a representation to the relevant Minister or Department asking them to investigate you concerns.

How do I obtain a letter of support?

Contact my office in writing, either by email orange@parliament.nsw.gov.au or mail or drop it to 194a Lords Place, Orange NSW 2800 and include the following information:

  • Name of person or organisation applying for the grant.
  • Brief background of organisation.
  • Name of grant being applied for.
  • What is the closing date for applications.
  • What project the funding will be used for.
  • How the project meets the eligibility criteria.
How do I become a Justice of the Peace?

To become a JP you must complete the online process and then seek the nomination of your state MP. Click here for more information and to complete the application form.

Where can I access JP services?

You can find a Justice of the Peace (JP) using the online Public Register. You can search by postcode, name of a JP, day of availability, language spoken and JP registration number.

The register lists a JP’s location, availability and telephone number. Please note that JPs are volunteers and may not be available at all times.

Click here to view the Public JP Register.

How do I invite Phil to an event?

Contact my office in writing, either by email orange@parliament.nsw.gov.au or mail 194a Lords Place, Orange NSW 2800 and include the following information:

  • Name and contact details.
  • Event details:
    • Name of event.
    • Date, time and location.
    • Would you like to request I speak or perform any particular duties? If so, please provide information.
How often does Parliament NSW sit?

The Houses of Parliament do not sit every working day of the year. Ministers and Members have full roles outside sitting times and the business of Parliament does usually not require more than 50-60 sitting days each year.

Annual sittings are divided into two sessions – the Budget Session (from February to early July) and the Spring Session (from September to December).

Most sitting weeks are three days, sometimes four, usually Tuesday to Thursday and often Friday.

Sitting hours for the Legislative Assembly usually begin at 12pm on Tuesdays. Sittings usually ends around 10pm or 10.30pm.

Click here to view the Sitting Day Calendar.

Does the office offer work experience opportunities?

Yes, Phil enjoys having the opportunity to host work experience students based in the Orange Electorate. Please contact the office for further information.

How can I nominate a person/organisation for community recognition?

Contact the office in writing, either by email orange@parliament.nsw.gov.au or mail or drop it to 194a Lords Place, Orange NSW 2800 and include the following information:

  • Your name and contact details.
  • Name and contact details of the person/organisation you are nominating.
  • Background of why they are deserving of community recognition.
How do I request a Certificate of Congratulations?

Contact the office in writing, either by email orange@parliament.nsw.gov.au or mail or drop it to 194a Lords Place, Orange NSW 2800 and include the following information:

  • Your name and contact details.
  • Name and contact details of the person/organisation you would the certificate to be made out to (you can provide multiple names).
  • Background of why they are deserving of a Certificate of Congratulations.
How do I watch Parliament live?

Visit Parliament of the New South Wales on sitting days to access the live webcasts. Click here to view.

How can I petition the Legislative Assembly?

Petitions allow members of the public to directly place their issues before the Parliament. A petition helps raise awareness of an issue in the community and lets Members of Parliament know what action the community wants the Parliament to take, but it doesn’t compel the Parliament to act.

There are two ways to petition the Legislative Assembly: first, online ePetitions; or paper petitions. The process for creating petitions is slightly different but common principles apply. For more information please click here.

How do I find out about grant funding available?

There are numerous government and non-government grants available to organisations and community groups. Visit the Grants Page to find out more.