The SouthWest Victoria Alliance has welcomed State Budget measures to take some cost of pressure off families.
SouthWest Victoria Alliance Chair Cr Ben Blain said: “Struggling families need all the help they can get at the moment and we welcome any measure that lightens the burden.
“However more needs to be done, many families across the SouthWest are struggling to find childcare, affordable housing and every family needs improvements in critical transport infrastructure.
SWVA was pleased to see:
- $41 million to continue additional train services for the Warrnambool and Echuca Lines.
- Funded upgrades for the Cobden Technical School
- $4.2 million to upgrade community football and netball facilities in rural and regional areas.
- $18 million to plan for offshore wind generation
Cr Blain said: “Any planning done for offshore wind needs to be done in true collaboration with affected communities and any developments must benefit our communities.
“We support our communities and understand there a range of views across the SWVA region.
“Our focus is that the proper processes are followed, that community consultations are undertaken and the views of the region are taken into account.
“We welcome any measures that seek to uplift our region through community benefit schemes. Our communities should see benefits from any projects happening in the region, this should feature in early planning.
“We believe that investment into training, industry development and job creation should be a key feature of any community benefit measures.
SouthWest Victoria is an important regional economic driver, and it is disappointing not to see further direct investment in our region.
Media enquiries: Seamus Bradley | seamus@theagendagroup.com.au | 0410 256 902
