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Andrews Labor Victorian government blocks move to ensure adequate mental health practitioners for school children

Labor MPs, with the support of three crossbenchers, have once again blocked a move to make sure there's enough mental health practitioners for Victoria's school children.

By news@gippsland - 7th October 2021 - Back to News

In a move backed by the Australian Counselling Association, the Liberal Nationals introduced a Private Member's Bill to Victorian Parliament this week that sought to unlock 2000 specialists for the mental health workforce by recognising registered counsellors as mental health practitioners.

Victorian children and their families who experienced an extended second lockdown have been more heavily affected than those in other states and territories

Unfit for the bill

Labor MPs joined with the Greens and independent crossbenchers Fiona Patten from the Reason Party and Andy Meddick from Animal Justice Party to stop the simple change of including counsellors in the definition of a 'mental health practitioner' under the Mental Health Act.

In an offensive spray directed at Victorian counsellors, Labor MP Sonja Terpstra suggested counsellors didn't fit the bill of "appropriately and suitably qualified people - people who are actually fit to practise with children".

However, a key element of the proposed amendment was that counsellors must be registered with the Australian Counsellors Association or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Foundation of Australia.

Worsening mental health reports

Labor MPs also sought to block the Bill in the Legislative Assembly last month, with the support of ex-Reason Coalition member Ali Cupper. The call for additional counsellors comes after the Liberal Nationals called on the Andrews Labor Government to make an extra 2000 trainee psychologists available to better support Victorian children.

Recent reports have highlighted worsening mental health outcomes in young people as a result of the COVID pandemic. Kids Helpline says calls to the service skyrocketed in the most recent lockdowns, while data also shows a shocking increase in youth presentations to emergency departments as a result of self-harm and suicidal thoughts.

Missing crucial opportunity

Shadow Minister for Mental Health Emma Kealy said, "Our kids deserve the very best start in life and a genuine opportunity for support to come back from the disruption, isolation and uncertainty of the past 18 months. Getting students' mental wellbeing back on track is crucial as they return to the classroom, but simply funding mental health practitioners doesn't go far enough - the workforce also needs to be equipped with enough specialists to meet demand."

"Labor MPs don't seem to realise that if there's not enough specialists to meet the demand, we'll miss a crucial opportunity to identify kids who are struggling and need help," said Ms Kealy.

Shadow Health Minister Georgie Crozier said, "After 18 months in lockdown, Victorian kids are suffering with mental health concerns. We need to ensure all Victorians get the support they need as soon as possible. Despite all the talk on mental health, the Andrews Government's actions today show they are willing to put politics ahead of Victorian children."

Pictures from Your Health in Mind Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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• Cancellations in Victorian public transport like Vline in Gippsland could be avoided with rapid testing for COVID
  Victoria's public transport to be disrupted by underpreparedness of the system.
• Repairing Morwell River Diversion for Yallourn mine to ensure energy supply agreed on between Energy Australian and Victorian government
  Works to repair the damage in the Morwell River Diversion (MRD) near the Yallourn coal mine to secure Victoria's energy supply have been agreed upon between the Victorian Government and Energy Australia.
• Wonthaggi to Inverloch trail funded $3M from Victorian government's Growing Suburbs Fund
  Bass Coast Shire Council is thrilled to announce that the State Government's Growing Suburbs Fund will contribute $3 million to the development of a 14 kilometre path between Inverloch and Wonthaggi.
• One Gippsland says 2022/23 Victorian budget will help boost to recovery of region
  One Gippsland has welcomed the Victorian government's broader investment in health, economic recovery and support for First Nations Victorians.
• Berrys Beach Road renewal in Ventnor gets $400,000 from Victorian government and $25,000 from Bass Coast Council
  A section of Berrys Beach Road in Ventnor will be renewed by Bass Coast Shire Council in coming weeks.
• New data shows demand for youth mental health service highest in Victoria
  Harrowing new data from the Kids Helpline shows the emotional toll Daniel Andrews' lockdowns are taking on the youngest Victorians.
• Desperate Triple-Zero calls unanswered and long ambulance waits from result from Andrews Labor government
  Crisis in Victoria's health system that's being ignored by the Andrews Labor government.
• Tim Bull says Victorian protests should never be held at the Shrine of Remembrance
  Protesters violating the sanctity of the Shrine of Remembrance.
• Federal government will fund $182 million of road and rail works in Gippsland during 2022-23
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester (pictured) says the Federal Government will fund $182 million worth of road and rail work in the region during the 2022-23 financial year.
• Federal government provides $131.8M for local road maintenance in West and Central Gippsland under the Roads to Recovery funding
  Local road maintenance in Monash will receive a boost thanks to funding under the Australian government's Roads to Recovery Program.
• State government recycling plan to significantly impact Bass Coast Shire Council approach to waste over next ten years
  Reforms that are going to significantly impact Bass Coast's approach to waste in the coming years.
• Less severe Omicron variant taking over and Victorians vaccinated means it's time for new way forward from governments right
  Liberals and Nationals call for action on Rapid Antigen Tests with a plan to move forward against the new variant.
• List of best Victorian beaches to visit this summer in Gippsland
  Tips for your Gippsland beach discovery bucket list for you to visit and have fun with friends and family.
• Russell Northe to co-host 'Tee-Up for Mental Health' Golf Day at Traralgon Golf Club
  Member for Morwell Russell Northe has spoken of his pride and support of a "Tee-Up for Mental Health."
• Veteran health and wellbeing funding via 'Supporting Younger Veterans' grant for West and South Gippsland
  Grants offered for the support to our young veterans mental health and wellbeing.
• Federal government backs largest indoor Barramundi aquaculture farm at Latrobe Valley with $30M funding
  The Latrobe Valley will become home to the world's largest indoor barramundi aquaculture farm with a $30 million boost from the federal government.
• Community invites to attend updates on major priorities for Victorian and federal government to support in Baw Baw Shire
  All members of the Baw Baw Shire community are invited to attend or tune in to an open briefing on Wednesday 11 May which will provide an update on council's ongoing advocacy initiatives.
• Federal government grants MediPharm Labs in Wonthaggi to $466,577 and create more local manufacturing jobs
  Grant to modernize a local company, MediPharm Labs to create greater efficiency and competitiveness.
• Morwell Foodbank hub at standstill after four years of promises from Andrews Labor government
  Lack of updates and communications with the Latrobe Valley community with regards to the promised Morwell Foodbank Hub, community seeks more information about the Morwell Foodbank Hub
• Moe Apex Park gets $60,000 lighting upgrades from Victorian Community Safety Infrastructure grant to improve surveillance and visibility
  Families and community members can now feel safer while enjoying Moe's community parks, thanks to new lighting funded through the Andrews Labor Government's Community Crime Prevention Program.
• Latrobe City to work with federal government on $10M funding for next stage of Gippsland Logistics Precinct
  Latrobe City Council is ready to partner with the new Labor Federal Government following the results of the Federal election over the weekend.
• Latrobe City preschool children support people living with Motor Neurone disease
  Fund raising activity to support and raise awareness for the debilitating diseases, Frontotemporal Dementia and Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
• Call to federal government to extend funding for the HeadtoHelp (H2H) program in Gippsland
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is calling on the Federal Government to extend funding for the HeadtoHelp (H2H) program in Gippsland.
• Justice Melinda Richards of the Victorian Supreme Court shuts down the majority of timber harvesting in East Gippsland
  A decision by Justice Richards in the Supreme Court yesterday has delivered a shocking Christmas blow to timber industry workers in East Gippsland.
• Latrobe City Council calls government to back recovery of Traralgon Showgrounds community groups from 2021 storm and flood event
  Calling on the State and Federal Governments to back a plan to help community groups based at Traralgon Recreation Reserve and Showgrounds.
• Neerim District Health Service Aged Care Facility gets $5M funding for upgrade from federal Community Development Grants Program
  Morrison government's commitment to redevelopment and upgrade of the Neerim District Health Service Aged Care facility.
• Darren Chester urges all government levels to fund redevelopment of Latrobe City Sports and Entertainment Stadium in Morwell
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is urging all levels of government to work together and fund the redevelopment of the Latrobe City Sports and Entertainment Stadium in Morwell.
• Pakenham railway line to have boom gate removed by 2025
  The Andrews Labor Government will make Melbourne's longest train line level crossing-free, with the last five dangerous and congested level crossings on the Pakenham line to be gone for good by 2025.
• Upgrades and specialist equipment for Gippsland early childhood education centres via Victorian government Building Blocks Inclusion fund
  Upgrades to early childhood education centres and specialist equipment to help improve learning outcomes.
• Latrobe City Transition Taskforce starts on plan to move away from traditional power generation and a reduced timber industry
  Taskforce establishment to plan for the economic diversification and investment opportunirties.
• More than a hundred jobs to be cut from Agriculture Victoria reducing services to food and fibre industry by Andrews Labor government
  As all Victorians continue to be impacted by food shortages and major disruptions to the food supply chain, Labor will axe 109 jobs from Agriculture Victoria this year.
• Hallora Recreation Reserve funded $300,000 for new lights from Victorian government and Baw Baw Shire Council
  Baw Baw Shire Council has secured up to $150,000 in State funding to support the installation of sports light towers and light fittings for the AFL Oval at the Hallora Recreation Reserve.
• East Gippsland community and sporting groups share in $900,000 from Victorian government Sporting Club Grants Program
  Nationals Member for Gippsland East Tim Bull has congratulated nine local community and sporting groups who have been successful in receiving funding under the Sporting Club Grants Program.
• Latrobe Regional Hospital to host Mind Australia pop-up community mental health service and cater to Gippsland
  Additional funding to support the mental health workforce for better and more accessible services as the Latrobe Regional Hospital to host one of the pop-up community mental health services.
• Cowes to Rhyll boardwalk gets $416,000 for upgrade from Victorian government regional funding
  Bass Coast Shire Council has welcomed new State Government funding towards its tracks and trails network, bringing benefits to the Bass Coast community.
• Swifts Creek Recreation Reserve upgraded with $1.92M funding from federal and Victorian government Local Economic Recovery program
  Swifts Creek Recreation Reserve will undergo a much-needed upgrade thanks to Federal and State Government funding.
• Darren Chester says Latrobe Valley owed explanation from Dan Andrews on failed promise for 500 electric vehicle manufacturing jobs
  Latrobe Valley community wants to know why members of the parliament refuse to participate in a local task force.
• New female friendly pavilion at Darnum Recreation Reserve from $500,000 grant Victorian government Local Sports Infrastructure Fund
  The netballers at Nilma Darnum Football Netball Club can say goodbye to changing in the back of the car, thanks to the completion of the new game changing female friendly pavilion at the Darnum Recreation Reserve in Darnum.
• Bellbird Park construction funded $4.1M from Baw Baw Shire Council and Victorian Government through Growing Suburbs Fund
  The first sod has been turned at Bellbird Park to mark the commencement of works on a vibrant new multi-use pavilion and community events facility.
• Baw Baw Civic Precinct initial development gets $3.5M funding from Victorian government Growing Suburbs Fund
  A landmark community precinct for the people of Warragul is now a step closer to reality, thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.
• Tee-Up Golf Day 2021 in Traralgon raises $20,000 for suicide prevention and mental health with help of Russell Northe and Rotary Club
  Member for Morwell, Russell Northe has spoken of his pride with regards to the business and community support that was received for the 2021 Tee-Up for Mental Health Day to which Mr Northe co-hosted along with the Rotary Club of Traralgon.
• Congratulations to Fiona Weigall for making Victorian Top 50 Public Sector Women as a General Manager in East Gippsland Shire Council
  The IPAA Victoria Top 50 Public Sector Women was announced at a function in Melbourne on Friday. Fiona said it was humbling to be recognised among the state's leading public sector female leaders.
• On-the-spot fines for trespass on Victorian farms still not ready nearly two years later
  New on-the-spot fines for extreme activists who trespass on Victorian farms and threaten the safety of farm families still aren't in place.
• Duplication of Princes Highway between Traralgon and Sale gets federal and Victorian government $250M funding for final stage
  Princes Highway duplication project, a major milestone with traffic switched to the new section at Flynn.
• Urgent need to invest into neglected and crumbling Victorian regional roads stated in key report from Infrastructure Australia
  A new report, released today, makes a mockery of the Victorian Roads Minister's claim that our state's road network is now 'safer and smoother'.
• Gippsland to share in $3B Victorian economy boost from 2026 Commonwealth Games
  Gippsland is set to shine on the world sporting stage in 2026, with the region being confirmed as one of the four regional hubs to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
• Applications open for Gippsland Recycling centres grants up to $500,000 from Victorian government $40.9M Regional Recycling Fund
  Recycling centres across regional Victoria including in Gippsland can apply for grants of up to $500,000 for infrastructure upgrades as part of Round One of the $40.9 million Regional Recycling Fund.
• Chronic shortage of Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) for coronavirus in Victoria responsibility of Andrews Labor government
  Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) are having a shortage while the government is trying to play the blame game.
• Grants for creative workers open from state government' 'Sustaining Creative Workers' initiative
  The Victorian Government's Sustaining Creative Workers initiative is now open for applications, providing critical support to Victoria's independent creative sector when they need it most.
• Call for Gippsland schools, community organisations and sporting clubs to apply for grants to increase shade from sun via state government sunshade program
  Government program to better protect the community while having their time outdoors.
• Concern over delays to rollout of Murray Basin Rail Project East expresses by Gippsland Shire Council to Andrews Labor government
  Council backed a request from the Rail Freight Alliance (RFA), of which Council is a member, to join a statewide call to get the project back on track ahead of the Victorian State Election.
• More axed jobs to come in agriculture research and development leaving Victorian farmers less productive and sustainable
  Victorian farmers face less service delivery after the Agriculture Minister refused to guarantee today the Labor government won't make more job cuts at Agriculture Victoria.
• Heavy cuts for regional Victoria in 2022/23 budget due to record debts and costs blowouts from major projects by Andrews Labor government
  Regional Victorians are set to cop further cuts to services and find it even harder to buy a home with today's State Budget no more than a PR repair plan for Daniel Andrews.
• Gippsland hospitality businesses will stay shut on Friday from unworkable rules imposed by Andrews Labor government
  Ease of restriction given to Victoria is not enough to keep businesses to stay open and recover.
• Traralgon Recreation Reserve gets $2.75M for new facilities development as part of Victorian government 2022/23 budget
  Latrobe City Council has welcomed the Victorian government's budget contribution of $2.75 million towards developing new facilities at Traralgon Recreation Reserve (TRR), which is a key component of council's Traralgon Flood Recovery Project.
• New report more evidence that immediate change needed to better Victorian children mental health
  New data today has painted a harrowing picture of the deteriorating mental health of young Victorians.
• Landmark $30M multi-use community precinct state government funding for the heart of Warragul being pursued by Baw Baw Shire Council
  Council to pursue support from the state and federal government for the multi-use community precinct that will help in the economic development and will also benefit the region.
• Tim Bull says Environment Minister Lily D'Ambrosio failure to ensure Buchan pool and East Cape Boardwalk are safe is disgraceful
  Lack of comprehension and no appetite from the government to reopen Buchan, also, lack of interest in reopening it has disappointed many in the community.
• Over $4.77M invested by Liberal and Nationals Government for priority Gippsland projects to met local communities needs
  Liberal and Nationals Government investing over $4.77 million in South Gippsland to help communities recover from the pandemic.
• Strzelecki Highway between Morwell and Mirboo North gets $8.25M to improve safety and reduce travel time from Victorian 2022/23 budget
  The Andrews Labor government is improving safety and travel times along the Strzelecki Highway with a new overtaking lane along the key tourism and agricultural route.
• Avoid tragedy over long weekend on Victorian waterways after two drownings last week
  Ahead of the long weekend, we are encouraging people to stay safe to avoid tragedy in our waterways.
• Baw Baw Shire Council secures $824,000 state government funding for road upgrades to Jacksons Track near Labertouche
  Baw Baw Shire Council has secured $824,000 in State Government funding to carry out major road upgrades to Jacksons Track near Labertouche.
• Latrobe Regional Hospital gets $217M funding for its expansion through the Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA)
  Latrobe Regional Hospital expansion means additional facilities that will give support to the region's increasing and complex health demands.
• Timber innovation boost of $219.5M will build confidence for at-risk Victorian by creating jobs and investment sustainable technologies
  A $219.5 million boost for innovation and research in Australia's forestry sector today is a badly needed vote of confidence in Victorian jobs that State Labor is hellbent on destroying.
• Vexatious court claims closes timber coupe for training Victorian essential service personnel at TAFE Gippsland
  Timber coupe being used by TAFE Gippsland for training Victorian essential service personnel has been targeted by vexatious court claims resulting in its closure.
• New cancer treatment centre for West Gippsland Hospital coming as health group gets $4.5M funding from federal coalition government for build
  A new cancer treatment centre to be built at West Gippsland Health Group will change lives and improve regional health outcomes thanks to funding from the Federal Coalition Government.
• Department of Veterans Affairs Gold Card can apply for $250 Power Saving Bonus from Victorian government until 31 January 2022
  Calling on the eligible residents to send their application for the rebates they can receive as power saving bonus from the government.
• People with an eating disorder to get more support with $20M funding from Victorian government
  More Victorians living with an eating disorder will receive the support they need to recover and live happy, healthy lives, thanks to record investment from the Andrews Labor government.
• Bass Coast Shire Council, Bass Coast Health, Phillip Island Nature Parks and Westernport Water support International Women's Day
  International Women's Day, held on 8 March is a global day celebrating the social economic, cultural and political achievements of Women.
• Tutor program to continue in schools across Eastern Victoria until 2022
  The Victorian Government will make sure that not one school student across Eastern Victoria is left behind in the wake of the pandemic, with the state's extraordinarily successful tutor program to continue until the end of 2022.
• Baw Baw Shire and Latrobe City Council get extra $13,200 from state government 'Municipal Emergency Resourcing Program'
  Eastern Victorian Councils will receive more funding to help them prepare for and respond to emergencies thanks to a funding boost from the Andrews Labor Government.
• Masterful performance by Seaspray athletes at Victorian Masters Championships 2022 in Lorne
  Seaspray Surf Life Saving Club members aged 35-73 competed at Lorne SLSC and the local community.
• Anglicare Victoria continues to supporting young people in Latrobe Valley stay away from crime via Youth Crime Prevention Grants program
  Through the Andrews Labor Government Youth Crime Prevention Grants program (YCPG), Anglicare Victoria has been awarded $350,000 to continue helping young people find pathways away from offending.
• Bass Coast Shire Council to push new federal government to boost funding on priority projects
  Council has announced it will be heading to Canberra next month to lobby the new Federal Government on behalf of our community for fairer funding for priority projects in climate change, infrastructure, education, aged care and tourism.
• Latrobe City Youth Council encourages healthy eating with 'Fab food marvellous mood' campaign'
  Food campaign to help educate the young people about healthy diet that lead to happier and healthier mental and physical wellness.
• Gippsland small and medium businesses can partake in $400 million of support from 'Victorian Business Support Package'
  A new jointly funded package from the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments will give Victorian small and medium businesses the extra support and confidence they need to recover from the recent lockdown.
• Gippsland not-for-profit kindergardens can apply for grants from $7.5M from state government fund to improve ventilation
  Victorian Government is helping kindergarten services across Eastern Victoria reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission, with support for better ventilation measures to help keep children and staff COVIDSafe.
• Mallacoota-Genoa road gets $10M in federal government funding to improve safety and resilience
  Work to improve the resilience and safety of the Mallacoota-Genoa Road.
• Feedback wanted by on draft Public Health and Wellbeing Plan from Baw Baw Shire Council
  Baw Baw Shire Council is inviting community feedback, thoughts and suggestions on its draft Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan.
• Part of Gippsland Performing Arts Centre $42M redevelopment opens up opportunities for regional creative community workers
  The Andrews Labor government is supporting local creative workers and community activities in Traralgon, with the unveiling of new spaces, facilities, and training programs at Gippsland Performing Arts Centre.
• Roll out rapid testing to help save iconic Victorian spring racing carnival
  Major event that has been awaited by the crowd to forecast on 5 November.
• TAFE Gippsland Warragul campus upgrade complete and now world-class training facility
  The Andrews Labor government has completed its multimillion-dollar upgrade of TAFE Gippsland's Warragul campus, giving local jobseekers the chance to train in world-class facilities before entering a rewarding career.
• Federal assistance of $7 million paid to Gippsland local governments for first quarter 2021-22
  Local governments in Monash have received their first 2021-22 quarterly payment through the Federal Government's Financial Assistance Grant program.
• Sale RSL receives $120,000 improvement grant from federal government under Veteran and Community Grants program
  The home of Gippsland Veterans Welfare Centre in Sale is about to receive a new roof thanks to a $120,000 Federal Government grant.
• Funding $2.69 million goes to four major Gippsland businesses and Latrobe City Council via Regional Recovery Fund
  The Andrews Labor Government is accelerating regional Victoria's recovery from the coronavirus pandemic by investing in Eastern Victoria to create jobs and stimulate the local economy.
• Latrobe Valley Blue Hydrogen project gets $2.98M support from federal government and Latrobe City Council
  Latrobe City Council welcomes the federal government's $2.98 million commitment to the Latrobe Valley Blue Hydrogen project by Zero Degrees Rosella.
• GippSport gets $849,930 to support young disengaged Gippslanders from federal government's Safer Communities Fund
  A program to support disengaged young people has received a funding boost thanks to the Federal Government.
• Paynesville Slip Road Maritime Precinct on Burrabogie Island upgrade underway with $6.1M funding from Victorian and federal government grants
  Paynesville's much-anticipated Slip Road Maritime Precinct project on Burrabogie Island is progressing, with work on an improved design set to begin.
• Leongatha roadside rest area gets upgraded via Liberal and Nationals Government's Driver Reviver Site Upgrade Program
  Leongatha roadside rest areas will be upgraded to help combat driver fatigue and make local roads safer, thanks to funding under the Liberal and Nationals Government's Driver Reviver Site Upgrade Program.
• More cutting-edge equipment for Gippsland Tech School to deliver more innovative STEM learning programs
  The Gippsland Tech School will soon be more high-tech to support Victorian Tech Schools to buy new equipment and deliver more innovative STEM learning programs.
• Victoria needs positive plan to rebuild rural healthcare in regions like Gippsland
  Due to the challenges of the pandemic and workforce isolation requirements on our hospitals, suggests making changes to government legislation and funding criteria for better mental health services.
• Baw Baw Shire Council adopts Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2021-2025
  Baw Baw Shire Council has adopted the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2021-2025 which guides Council's statutory responsibility for improving the health and wellbeing of the community.
• Extraordinary backtrack means more time to speak up against draconian Dan Andrews Pandemic Bill
  Peter Walsh MP opposing the bill and urging Victorians to speak up and stand up for their freedom.
• Latrobe Regional Hospital expands Mobile Targeted Assertive Outreach mental health team
  Government investment for services and support for young Victorians.
• Enrolments for Free TAFE in Gippsland up by 29 percent for 2020
  More than 13,000 jobseekers enrolled in the Andrews Labor Government's Free TAFE initiative across TAFE Gippsland, Box Hill Institute and Chisholm Institute last year, making rewarding career pathways a reality for thousands of Victorians.
• Giant Gippsland Earthworms and Hooded Plovers get $500,000 from Morrison government Threatened Species Strategy Action Plan
  Community-led program that aims to conserve, restore and protect native wildlife that share the same habitat.
• East Gippsland Shire Council thanks its health workers with a 'Thank You Day'
  East Gippsland appreciation on the hard work and dedication of the frontliners.
• LED lights to be installed at Darnum Recreation Reserve with $200,000 funding from Victorian Country Football Netball Program
  The AFL Oval and Netball Courts at Darnum Recreation Reserve will soon undergo much needed upgrades with the installation of new light towers and LED light fittings throughout the facility.
• Cunninghame Arm community-driven project in Lakes Entrance boardwalk gets $5.8M federal government funding to make it work for all-abilities
  Work to construct an all-abilities boardwalk and shared pathway around the shores of Cunninghame Arm in Lakes Entrance will start this year thanks to $5.8 million in federal government funding.
• Wellington Shire mayor urges locals to follow COVID-19 health advice for sake of local business
  Wellington Shire Council Mayor Garry Stephens has urged locals to be vigilant and to follow the latest Covid-19 health advice, for the sake of local business.
• Lorraine Warford hangs up her stop sign as school crossing supervisor after 25 years service in Bairnsdale
  Bairnsdale 754 Primary School is about to say farewell to its much-loved school crossing supervisor, Lorraine Warford, who is hanging up her stop sign on Friday after 25 years of looking after young students.
• Low-income Gippsland households can apply for $1,000 rebate to replace old heaters from state government 'Home Heating and Cooling Upgrade' program
  Heating upgrade grant to support low-income households.
• Public notices to stay public in a win for country newspapers and regional communities
  The state Labor government's attempt to hide government changes from regional communities and axe an important source of revenue for local newspapers has been stopped by The Nationals in Victorian Parliament.
• Latrobe City Council helps secure $117M funding for local projects from Victorian 2022/23 budget
  Latrobe City Council thanks the State Government for their investment in local projects as part of the 2022/23 Budget.
• Mirboo North Pool reopens with updated facilities from $3.6M low interest loan from Community Sports Infrastructure Loans Victorian government scheme
  Mirboo North's updated pool facilities are open in time for summer fun, thanks to a community sports loan from the Victorian Government.
• Russell Broadbent's Gippsland school leavers' guide for those graduating in 2021
  Assistance for graduates to have innovative solutions for their future.
• Outrage among regional motorists as new data shows most neglected local government areas in country Victoria
  The sad state of country roads is driving outrage among regional motorists with new data painting a picture of Victoria's most neglected local government areas.
• Tilly's Dream and Churchill North Primary School in Latrobe City get $110,000 boost for child care services
  Two childcare providers in the Latrobe Valley have received a welcome funding boost to meet the needs of local families.
• East Gippsland Shire Council needs resident feedback on health and wellbeing priorities
  East Gippsland Shire Council is leading the development of a new four-year municipal health and wellbeing plan, 'Well placed for Wellbeing 2021-25'.
• West and central Gippsland gets $480M for 4G and 5G wireless upgrade from Morrison government in 2022-23 federal budget
  Electorate of Monash will have access to a significantly more capable NBN network following a $480 million investment by the Morrison Government in the 2022-23 Federal Budget.
• Proposal to improve pedestrian safety at St Ita's Primary School to Regional Roads Victoria endorsed by Baw Baw Shire Council
  Council proposed pedestrian school crossing at St. Ita's primary school.
• Not clear how Gippsland and Latrobe Valley hospitals performing during a pandemic after health services fail to finalise annual reports
  The community has no clear idea of how local regional hospitals are performing during a pandemic after nearly 60 country health services failed to finalise their annual reports.
• Recyclables volume increases by 60 percent since the fees were removed in July 2021
  East Gippsland residents have taken their recycling efforts to new levels, with East Gippsland Shire Council seeing a large increase in recyclables at its waste sites.
• Noojee transition plan from timber industry to be developed by independent project officer with $360,000 from Victorian Forestry grant
  State government initiative that would help support the timber communities and local jobs.
• Moe Play Space in Apex Park gets changing places accessible toilet from Latrobe City Council with $110,000 from Victorian government
  Funding received from the government for changing areas at Apex Park.
• New Men's Shed Workshop at Neerim Junction on digital technology funded $80,000 from Victorian government
  Council has entered a community lease with Neerim District Community House and Men's Shed to develop a workshop facility located at the former Neerim Junction Tennis Courts, at 17 Court Rd, Neerim Junction.
• Darren Chester presents achievement certificates to school leaders at Morwell Campus of Kurnai College
  Darren Chester MP presents the school leaders with their achievement certificates.
• Wellington Shire Council encouraging children with launch of BIG Summer Read program
  Wellington Shire Council is encouraging local children to keep reading over summer with the launch of the BIG Summer Read program.
• Bridget Brown from Seaspray Surf Life Saving Club wins silver medal in beach sprints at Victorian Championships 2022
  Life Saving Victoria's best senior athletes from Seaspray Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) put on a spectacle at Warrnambool SLSC this weekend for the Victorian Championships.
• Latrobe City Council calls to preserve Lake Narracan following the closure of Yallourn Power Station in 2028
  Latrobe City Council will make a submission to the State Government calling to preserve Lake Narracan's weir and water levels following the closure of Yallourn Power Station in 2028.
• Youth-specific rehabilitation facility on Northern Avenue in Traralgon officially opened as part of Victorian Ice Action Plan
  Latrobe Valley and Gippsland youth to get the alcohol and drugs rehabilitation support they need through Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA).
• Gippsland live performance presenters and suppliers can apply for state support from event cancellations between May and September
  The Victorian Government is providing more support for live performance events that have been cancelled due to the recent coronavirus restrictions.
• Feedback wanted from Gippslanders on Connecting Victoria survey from state government
  One Gippsland has welcomed the Victorian Government's ground-breaking Connecting Victoria Engagement Report that outlines the digital connectivity issues in regional Victoria.
• Gippsland motorists robbed of life-saving road upgrades as state and federal government dithers
  Government failing to fast track the road safety upgrades putting regional communities in critical functioning.
• High-intensity bushfires and invasive animals biggest risk to Victorian ecosystems
  Report and recommendations made to protect Victori'as ecosystems and combat the devastation of bushfires, invasive weeds and pest animals.
• Business Fibre Zones with 1 GB Internet connections coming to Warragul and Wonthaggi-Inverloch from agreement between state government and NBN Co
  Victorians can look forward to more areas of their state being able to access the highest speed NBN speed tiers under a co-investment agreement between NBN Co Limited (NBN Co) and the Victorian Government, announced today.
• New facilities for students at St Angela of the Cross Primary School in Warragul from $1,750,000 federal funding
  Member for Monash Russell Broadbent virtually blessed the opening of Stage 1 of St Angela of the Cross Primary School that was funded by the Coalition Government.
• Research underway to strengthen Greater Glider possum population in Latrobe CIty with $50,000 grant from Victorian government
  A research project is underway to study and strengthen the population of the Greater Glider possum, the largest gliding mammal in Australia.
• Victoria's Chief Psychiatrist again not involved in decision to extend hard lock down by three more weeks
  More youth are suffering mental ill-health because of Labor's extensive lockdowns.
• Gippsland Cancer Care Centre to get new Linear Accelerator as part of $11M funding package from the Victorian 2022/23 budget
  Regional cancer patients will have access to brand new radiotherapy services closer to home, thanks to a massive funding boost in the Victorian Budget 2022/23.
• Latrobe Valley paper will continue to be sent by rail for export and distribution as key Gippsland freight service gets stimulus for Victorian government
  Improvements on train tracks that will help ensure its daily runs.
• Support Baw Baw Shire hospitality and businesses throughout the pandemic with 'Baw Baw Eat and Explore' campaign and website
  Government project that encourages community to buy local products as much as they can to help the businesses thrive with the current challenges from the pandemic.
• Baw Baw Shire Council gets $360,000 additional disaster recovery funding to support community long term recovery from 2019 bushfire
  Funding provided by the Victorian Government to support bushfire safety and preparedness initiatives in the eastern region of Baw Baw Shire.
• Baw Baw Shire Council calls for more storm relief support from state and federal governments
  Baw Baw Shire Council has called on the State and Federal Governments to fulfil their promises and provide more support in the aftermath of the June storm events.
• Federal support for farmers in East Gippsland and Wellington through the On-farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme
  The Coalition Government is bolstering support for farmers in East Gippsland and Wellington through the On-farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme.
• Sun Cinema in Bairnsdale receives $60,000 as financial boost thanks to federal government SCREEN fund
  A Gippsland independent cinema has received a financial boost thanks to the federal government's SCREEN Fund.
• Latrobe City Stadium in Morwell to be upgraded in preparation to host events for 2026 Commonwealth Games
  With Gippsland officially announced as one of four regional hubs for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, the Andrews Labor government is getting on with plans to deliver this global sporting event.
• Draft statement of planning policy submitted by Bass Coast Shire Council for Distinctive Areas and Landscapes Program from Victorian government
  Bass Coast Shire Council will lodge a submission with the Department of Environment, Land Water and Planning (DELWP) on the draft Statement of Planning Policy, outlining its concerns.
• Bringing manufacturing home needed to solve growing shortages of essential chemicals and spare parts by Victorian farm businesses
  The global supply chain took a battering in the COVID pandemic and now conflict between Russia and the Ukraine is further shaking the foundations of Victoria's key import and export markets.
• Bass Coast Shire prepares at Phillip Island for School Leavers Week 2021
  The official School Leavers Week runs from 27 November to 4 December.
• Haunted Hills Mountain Bike Park trails in Moe to be further extended via Regional Tourism Investment Fund
  Victorian Government is supporting the extension of a popular mountain bike track in Gippsland.
• Expelling students with disability to burden families is not the answer to under-resourced Victorian schools
  Data released today confirms soaring rates of expulsion of students with a disability during the pandemic, indicating under-resourced schools are not coping.
• Warragul Cinemas gets a $60,000 grant from 'Supporting Cinemas' Retention Endurance and Enhancement of Neighbourhoods (SCREEN) federal program
  Government program that aims to support independent cinema operators who have experienced significant declines in revenue due to COVID-19.
• Reinstate density limits and not patron caps for safe reopening of regional hospitality venues
  Victorian Government has been urged to reinstate density limits, not patron caps, for the safe reopening of regional hospitality venues
• Food relief across the Latrobe Valley funded $16,700 from Food Relief Financial Reserve
  The Victorian Government is ensuring those who are doing it tough during the pandemic can continue putting a meal on the table, with funding to deliver food to Victorians who need it most.
• Fair share needed for regional Victoria in 2022-23 Budget
  Regional Victorians are demanding a fair share of the state's spend on hospitals, schools, infrastructure and mental health in the lead up to the State Budget on May 3.
• Local emergency services for regional Victoria should feature in 2022-23 Victorian budget
  Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull is hoping to see some key projects ticked off in next week's State Budget.
• Youth Prevention and Recovery Care Centre (YPARC) at Parkville opened but not being used due to workforce shortages
  Under-staffed mental health services can't provide the care and preventative support Victorian kids so desperately need.
• Puffing Billy tradition of sitting on window sills returns to the iconic heritage Victorian railway
  The time-honoured tradition of sitting on the sills of Puffing Billy will make its long-awaited return to the iconic heritage railway from today.
• Mallacoota Gun Club gets $9000 for new solar power system from federal government funding
  Funding for the re-establishment of the facility.
• Low indigenous vaccination rates risk widening the gap in Latrobe Valley and Gippsland
  Vaccine hesitancy and testing hesitancy in Victoria's Indigenous communities' risks pushing people further into disadvantage under the Andrews Labor Government's plan to offer more freedoms to people who are fully-vaccinated.
• Local community sporting events can now apply for support through the Regional Sports Events Fund of the federal government
  Funding to support local community sporting events is now available through the Federal Government.
• Bullock Island bridge replacement progressing well and well worth $5M funding from federal government
  Federal government provided $5 million for the Bullock Island bridge replacement and associated road works which is part of the master plan for the popular island.
• Russel Broadbent message for National Suicide Prevention Day and 'R U OK?' Day
  These lockdowns are continually giving pressures on our mental health and well-being. Talking to a friend or anyone around us means giving them support, it's time to call our friends and ask "Are you okay?".
• Limited lockdowns a win for regional communities like Gippsland
  A move to use limited lockdowns, by LGA, gives some long overdue relief and certainty to regional Victorian families, businesses and communities.
• TAFE Gippsland gets $4 million upgrade from 'TAFE Asset Maintenance Fund' to cater for growing enrolments at Warragul Campus
  Warragul students will soon move into new state-of-the-art facilities at TAFE Gippsland, funded by the Andrews Labor Government.
• Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission report shows massive 30 percent increase in Ice Drug addiction after Victorian lockdowns
  New data pointing to a spike in drug use and addiction has painted a harrowing picture of the impact of lockdowns on the lives of vulnerable Victorians.
• Development of clean hydrogen and carbon capture and storage in Gippsland get $42.9M funding from federal government
  The Coalition government is backing the development of clean hydrogen and carbon capture and storage technologies in Victoria's Gippsland region, providing job and economic growth opportunities for the community.
• Russell Northe encourages community support for Gippsland hospice at Churchill in Latrobe Valley
  Online petition for state government to consider and explore opportunities to build a hospice in the local community.
• Darren Chester in support of federal funding for improvement to Greenwattle Racecourse in Sale
  Member for Gippsland Darren Chester and Sale Turf Club CEO Brad Evans discussing opportunities for Federal Government grants to support further upgrades at the Greenwattle Racecourse.
• Darren Chester secured $6.5M funding for Marine Parade in Lakes Entrance through federal government grant
  One of Lakes Entrance's busiest roads will receive a $6.5 million facelift thanks to a Federal Government grant.
• Support for Gippsland manufacturers to create jobs via Modern Manufacturing Initiative (MMI)
  Funding and support to boost manufacturing sector and guidelines for support application.
• Baw Baw Shire Council shares in state funding to help residents understand the four-bin recycling system
  Victorian councils are being supported to roll out new education campaigns to help residents understand the four-bin recycling system, as part of the Victorian Government's goal to divert 80% of waste from landfill.