There was plenty of campaigning in the lead-up to the federal election from the Liberal Party reminding us of Labor's past debt and deficit, whilst no mention of our current debt and deficit which has only skyrocketed under the current government. At the time of writing, the Coalition is yet to deliver their budget surplus. We will remember.

When will our government and opposition face the reality of the over taxing of private enterprise and small business is so counter productive.

Labor is calling for immediate wage increases and the commitment from government to increase the superannuation guarantee to 12 per cent by 2025. These imposts on business combined along with other regulatory charges may sound the death knell for many small family owned businesses.

One could mount a case for none of the additional costs to occur so fragile is small business reeling under current energy costs.

What makes the call from business for restraint to go unheard is the constant wage increases to politicians and public servants on much regularity and as usual funded by the taxpayer.

Labor and the government must adopt a bi-partisan approach to the non incurring of any additional financial impost upon small business as a matter of urgency and as a show of good faith the pollies to reject the next expected recommended pay rise.

Now that action would be bi-partisan.

With ongoing concerning news about the health and social impacts of alcohol, methamphetamines, opioid painkillers and ecstasy (to name just a few), it's important people know that free professional treatment for drug and alcohol dependence is available in the local community.

Odyssey House NSW runs ten community services programs around greater Sydney and Bowral, where clients attend regular group and individual counselling and educational sessions while going about their everyday lives.

We help people with a range of needs, from early intervention to overcoming long-standing dependence through to relapse prevention and aftercare. We also assist people's families.

Odyssey House's programs help clients overcome drug use disorders, manage their mental health, deal with underlying personal issues, develop coping strategies and learn practical skills, for example, parenting, anger/conflict management, communication, relaxation. We work with various agencies to support clients to find work, courses, housing and health/welfare services.

If necessary, we refer people to our withdrawal service or residential rehabilitation.

Odyssey House Community Services locations include Central and Eastern Sydney: Redfern, Hurstville; South Western Sydney: Campbelltown, Fairfield, Bowral; Western Sydney: Blacktown, Baulkham Hills, Doonside; Sydney North: Chatswood, Manly.

It's also important people know they don't have to "hit rock bottom" or be highly motivated before seeking help; our skilled counsellors can assist people to develop motivation and engage in their recovery.

We encourage anyone concerned about their own or someone else's drug use to contact Odyssey House on 1800 397 739 or www.odysseyhouse.com.au or the Alcohol and Drug Information Service's 24-hour help-line on 1800 250 015.