"Delivering a fiscally and socially responsible Budget, that underpins a positive vision for NSW, will be one of the first critical tests of the next NSW Government," said NCOSS President, Annabel Senior.

"The NSW Budget is now in a strong position to achieve modest surpluses and finance new community facilities, public services and social programs."

"The next State Government must commit funds to these purposes ($1.7 billion over four years), which are equivalent to the cost which have been borne by NSW citizens in front end financing the 2000 Olympics and Paralympics."

"Our other revenue proposals are modest and fair. They include rejigging land tax, improving cost recovery on selected industry assistance schemes, increasing stamp duty on top end housing purchases, and levying a small portion of all gambling profits," said NCOSS Director, Gary Moore.

"This submission contains spending priorities across 11 State Government portfolios. These proposals aim to tackle, head on, significant social need. Importantly, many also aim to build the capacity of local communities to improve their quality of life."

"Highlights include universal pre-school access for all 4 year olds, 500 extra supported accommodation places for people with disabilities, a new rural community support workers program, extending all fare concessions to private buses and trains, community liaison officers in schools and regional retail centres, urgent assistance for legal aid, an independent Gambling Commission and an Ombudsman to cover all utilities."

"Community organisations across NSW are telling NCOSS that the electorate is seeking government which listens, which ensures adequate services, which promotes opportunities and which has a partnership with communities."

"There is every possibility that a well balanced 1999/2000 State Budget can deliver AAA results to communities across the state, not just Moody's or Standard and Poors."