ANDREW Barr says Tony Abbott has indicated to him that the worst of the Commonwealth job cuts are behind us. The two met at today’s Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Meeting.

“This should give confidence to Canberra businesses that we have been through the worst and we can continue to build and diversify our economy,” Andrew said.

“The Prime Minister has agreed to work with States and Territories toward long term funding plans for our schools and hospitals. Following today’s meeting we now have a process in which to achieve that.”

Andrew was also pleased COAG agreed to his suggestion to put the Harper Review of Competition on the agenda for their next meeting.

“Canberrans will benefit from the more affordable cost of living that increased competition delivers. It is important that this is discussed at the highest level.”