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Outrageous proposed laws by Andrews government allows Premier to lockdown without warning and if no pandemic disease in Victoria

New legislation before the Victorian Parliament is seeking to permanently enshrine government over-reach into the lives and livelihoods of regional Victorians.

By news@gippsland - 28th October 2021 - Back to News

High vaccination rates and the winding back of restrictions on our society have sent a ripple of hope through our communities that our lives are getting back on track. Vibrancy is returning to our pubs, cafes and wineries, kids are back in the classroom, community sport is back on the agenda and we're all eagerly anticipating a 'normal' Christmas with the people we love most.

Victorians are witnessing the most extreme, dangerous and excessive laws ever brought before our state, this extreme legislation is a threat to every Victorian family, small business and local community, it must be stopped

Victorians need certainty

At a time when we need certainty, the Andrews Labor Government is seeking the power to permanently hold our lives to ransom. Labor's proposed pandemic management laws hand the Premier extraordinary powers, including the power to unilaterally make a "pandemic declaration" without warning and "whether or not the pandemic disease is present in Victoria".

A 'pandemic declaration' could last indefinitely in blocks of three months, with no accountability to Parliament or the Victorian people. The Nationals have proposed common sense changes to these laws to make sure the Government of the day is accountable.

Transparency and accountability is a must

We do not support handing over everything - our rights, our liberties, our livelihoods - to one person. That is not how democracy works. Under our Private Members Bill, extensions to emergency or pandemic declarations would require a 3/5ths vote of the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council.

Victorians cannot suffer a repeat of the last 18 months. We need new protections that ensure transparency and accountability are at the centre of current and future pandemic responses. If you agree, make your voice heard by signing our petition at pandemic lockdown legislation.

Pictures from Victorian Department of Health Facebook page.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  Labor government's cut on the road maintenance neglect on the country road asset maintenance has left the country roads neglected.
• Triangle Park in Marlogets $300,000 grant from Victorian government's Local Economic Recovery Program
  Triangle Park in Marlo is getting an upgrade, with the $300,000 project expected to be finished before Easter.
• 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.
• East Gippsland farmers anxiously watch foot and mouth disease developments as government response too slow to assure safety
  Farmers waiting for developments on the government's preparedness on managing outbreak, seeking better outbreak control measures to protect both farmers and livestocks.
• Morwell food manufacturing precinct receives $10M funding from Victorian government that will give boost for Gippsland
  Ahead of this week's State Budget the Committee for Gippsland (C4G) has welcomed the state government's $10 million investment into the Morwell Manufacturing Precinct.
• Michael Whelan from Bass Coast Shire council joins Victorian government 2022 Mayoral Advisory Panel
  Bass Coast Shire Council has again been selected to represent other Victorian Councils on the state government's 2022 Mayoral Advisory Panel.
• Rebuild opportunity for Victoria's broken mental health system will be missed if Labor government refuses to support crucial reforms
  An opportunity to rebuild Victoria's broken mental health system will be missed if the State Government refuses to support crucial reforms that will unlock thousands of extra workers for the exhausted and under-resourced workforce.
• 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.
• Victorians chance to win Lotto reduces from one in 47M to 1 in 63M thanks to Andrews Labor government
  The state Labor government has made a stingy and desperate grab for cash by making the lotto harder to win.
• 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.
• Gippsland chosen as a regional Hydrogen Cluster as federal government commits $570M to hydrogen energy development
  Gippsland has been chosen by National Energy Resources Australia (NERA) as one of a handful of clusters across Australia that will play a pivotal role in accelerating the development, deployment, and commercialisation of the hydrogen industry.
• Acting Victorian Premier James Merlino MP statement on lessening movement restrictions and staying COVIDSafe
  There's still work to do, there's still our state to keep safe and every Victorian needs to help to keep everyone COVIDsafe.
• Promise for additional train services for Shepparton and Warrambool must be included in Andrews Labor government Victorian budget 2022-23
  Additional passenger train services on the Shepparton and Warrnambool lines will remain a far-off dream if next week's State Budget fails to invest in the rolling stock required to deliver them.
• Promise for additional train services for Shepparton and Warrambool must be included in Andrews Labor government Victorian budget 2022-23
  Additional passenger train services on the Shepparton and Warrnambool lines will remain a far-off dream if next week's State Budget fails to invest in the rolling stock required to deliver them.
• 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.
• 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.
• Comprehensive biosecurity checks of Indonesian arrivals by air from federal government called by Victorian Liberals and Nationals
  Australian biosecurity efforts must be strengthened following confirmation this week that foot and mouth disease (FMD) has been detected in cows in Indonesia.
• Brumby carcasses found by locals in East Gippsland bush requires explanation from Andrews Labor government about culling program
  Following reports of brumby carcasses being found in the East Gippsland bush, local Nationals MP, Tim Bull, has asked the Environment Minister to come clean on the details of the program.
• Omeo Mountain Bike Trail gets $3.2M additional funding from federal government to deliver stage two of the project
  Mayor Cr Mark Reeves applauded the announcement and noted the great cooperation between shire, state and federal governments in funding the project. He also announced an additional $1.06m from council.
• Plans to protect and ensure the farmers from the foot and mouth outbreak from Andrews Labor government need to clear
  Under questioning in State Parliament today, Victorian Minister for Agriculture Gayle Tierney refused to make public the plans of what the Labor government is doing to ensure that Victoria is prepared for an outbreak.
• Country commuters stranded on neglected V/Line network from Andrews Labor government budget cuts
  Regional train passengers are again wearing the consequences of decades of neglect of V/Line, with a statewide communications outage forcing the entire network to a standstill today.
• 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.
• 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.
• Morwell Park Primary School gets $5.35M expansion and upgrade from Victorian government and Colman Education Foundation
  Latrobe City Council is pleased to partner with the Department of Education and Training, Morwell Park Primary School and the Colman Education Foundation to implement the Our Place approach at Morwell Park.
• Commuters owed explanation for third network shutdown from Andrews Labor government and V/Line
  Regional train passengers are owed a full explanation after another "communications fault" shutdown the entire V/Line network, cancelling dozens of services during the morning peak.
• 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.
• 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.
• Great Alpine Road State upgrades needs to fast tracked by federal government to ensure road users safety
  Gippsland MP Darren Chester has written to the state and federal governments about the urgent need for upgrades along the Great Alpine Road.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Remove lockdowns and get back to normal as 93 percent of Victorians fully-vaccinated and COVID hospitalisations decline calls Peter Walsh
  Further density limit rules should be removed for hospitality and entertainment so they can welcome back more Victorians.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• New multi-purpose facility for Tambo Crossing community opens thanks to federal and state governments ‍funding of $426,000
  Proud. That's the best way to describe the Tambo Crossing community at the official opening of their new multi-purpose facility last Friday afternoon.
• Crown Casino reform not complete until thorough investigation of Andrews Labor Government dealings
  Victorian Liberals and Nationals accept the recommendations made by the Royal Commission into Crown Casino today.
• Lockdowns have pushed mental health of Victorians to the brink
  New data has revealed the worsening mental health toll of indefinite lockdown and isolation from friends and family.
• 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.
• Myli and the Baw Baw Arts Alliance support proposed Culture and Connection Precinct
  Momentum continues to build for the landmark precinct with local library organisation Myli (My Community Library) and the Baw Baw Arts Alliance affirming full support for the proposed $30 million Baw Baw Culture and Connection Precinct.
• Support for senior vocational education students (VET) from Andrews Labor government
  The Victorian Government is making sure every secondary school student whose Vocational Education and Training (VET) studies have been disrupted by the pandemic will receive extra support to complete their certificates.
• Social housing investment in Warragul of $6.85M means more Victorians to a home through Andrews Labor government
  More Victorians will have a place to call home thanks to the Andrews Labor government's social housing investment in Warragul.
• 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.
• Regional Victoria out of sixth lockdown but we cannot keep living like this
  Call for the government to roll out the rapid antigen test to protect the people as well as the businesses in Victoria.
• Regional kids including Gippsland still locked out of the classroom, but the Andrew's Labor state government won't tell us why
  Andrews Labor Government's decision to force students in regional communities into remote learning.
• Almost 20,000 young Victorians suffer cruel access delays to recovery programs from Andrews Labor government
  The nation's largest mental health worker recruitment drive is needed to arrest "heightened levels of anxiety and mood distress" in young Victorians, as data today reveals an alarming spike in students diagnosed with learning disabilities.
• Bass Coast Shire Council to pursue enforcement options if any local laws breached by new wind turbine on private property near surf beach
  Bass Coast Shire Council is aware of the Wind Turbine installed on private property in Surf Beach in recent days, the council also understands and share the community's concerns about the turbine.
• 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.
• Estimated 500 brumbies to be shot at Barmah Forest admitted by Andrews Labor government
  The Victorian Government has confirmed that it plans to eradicate our brumby population, a move strongly opposed by Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull.
• Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre leads the way at 2022 Local Government Professionals awards
  The Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre (GRAC) has been recognised as a leading community facility in Victoria at the 2022 Local Government Professionals awards.
• 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.
• Bidfood Morwell new cold storage food distribution facility and LV Shade Sails expansion get Victorian government support
  Latrobe City Council welcomes the Victorian government's support of 47 new jobs across Morwell and Traralgon through the Regional Jobs Fund.
• 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.
• Lockdowns causing catastrophic mental health toll on the youngest Victorians
  Victorians deserve the truth surrounding the catastrophic mental health toll lockdowns are having on the youngest people in our community.
• Promised plant nursery with 30 jobs for Nowa Nowa scrapped by Andrews Labor government
  The State Government's promise to establish a nursery employing 30 people in Nowa Nowa has, as many expected, been scrapped, in fact, it never progressed beyond the media release.
• Russell Northe questions Minister on when decision on proposed Delburn Wind Farm will be made
  Member for Morwell, Russell Northe has last week in Parliament questioned the Minister for Planning as to when a decision on the proposed Delburn Wind Farm is likely to be made.
• No more excuses for bushfire recovery delays in East Gippsland from Andrews Labor government
  All levels of government have been challenged to stop making excuses and get on with the job of delivering bushfire recovery projects in East Gippsland.
• West Gippsland gets more than 300 new three-and four-year-old extra kindergarten places from Victorian government
  The Andrews Labor government is helping families in West Gippsland get their kids into early childhood learning by creating more than 300 new three-and four-year-old kindergarten places.
• Free pair of glasses for 176 students across West Gippsland and Latrobe Valley from Andrews Labor Victorian government
  One thousand more Victorian students can now see more clearly and concentrate better at school, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government's free Glasses for Kids program.
• Victorian host bid 2026 Commonwealth Games in needs investment to fix country roads and rail after Labor government neglect
  Any bid to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games in regional Victoria must be backed up by investment to fix country roads, rail and transport infrastructure after decades of Victorian Labor's neglect.
• Additional 2000 qualified professionals for mental health workforce secured by Andrews Labor government backflip
  Kids struggling with their mental health will finally get access to extra workers, with the Liberals and Nationals securing reforms today that will unlock 2000 counsellors to work in Victorian schools.
• Victorian Liberals and Nationals consider Yoorrook Justice Commission interim report in regards to advancing the Treaty process
  While the Andrews Labor government is engaging in advancing the Treaty and the truth-telling inquiry, they have not clearly articulated how they intend to meet Victoria's other existing commitments.
• 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.
• Victorian including Gippsland farmers' livelihood at risk while worker deal is stranded on Premier's desk
  The Labor government is putting the agricultural sector into crisis, dismissing famers' calls for help.
• 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.
• Victorian and Gippsland farmers bumper harvest at risk as hard lockdowns make worsen labour shortages
  Victorian farmers' hopes of a record-breaking harvest are at risk while COVID restrictions continue to wreak havoc with availability of farm labourers.
• New pitch lighting at Thorpdale and Longwarry Recreation Reserves from $250,000 Victorian government funding
  The Longwarry Crows and Thorpdale Blues football teams can now play day and night thanks to the completion of the new pitch lighting at Thorpdale and Longwarry Recreation Reserves.
• Victorian women lost their job at nearly five times the rate of men during pandemic
  Government has a responsibility to ensure each and every Victorian has the best opportunity to recover and rebuild: mentally, socially and economically.
• Opportunity to save more Victorian lives to improve country road safety must not be missed in Andrews Labor 2022-23 budget
  Victoria's road network will continue to crumble into dangerous disrepair without a substantial boost to funds for maintenance.
• 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.
• Urgent funding needed to better support Victorian suicide prevention framework 2016-2025 to meet its objective required from Andrews Labor government
  Victorian suicide prevention framework 2016 - 2025' will not be met including the most important objective and that was to halve the suicide rate in Victoria by 2025.
• 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.
• Victorian businesses and community organisations can apply for $2,000 grants from COVIDSafe Outdoor Activation Voucher Program
  The Victorian Government is helping businesses and the community breathe new life into local neighbourhoods as vaccination progressively delivers greater freedoms across the state from Friday.
• 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.
• Victorian power saving bonus of $250 extended until 30 June 2022
  The Victorian Government is extending the popular $250 Power Saving Bonus payment to support more vulnerable households doing it tough with energy bills.
• No more excuses for Victorian Labor to delay worker fix for Gippsland farmers
  The Andrews Labor Government has run out of excuses to delay fixing Victoria's farm worker shortage, after the Federal Government today confirmed details of Australia's ag visa program.
• Victorian system in crisis: More mental health workers needed to meet regional and metro demand
  Today's mental health announcement from the Andrews Labor Government doesn't go anywhere near far enough to address Victoria's shadow pandemic.
• 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.
• More ambulances and paramedics for Latrobe Valley from Andrews Labor government
  More ambulances and paramedics for the Latrobe Valley to ensure locals get the best care.
• 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.
• Kosciusko and Bank Street intersection in Traralgon to get vital safety upgrade as part of federal government's $300M commitment for 2022
  Latrobe City Council is pleased Regional Roads Victoria will begin vital upgrades at key intersections along the Princes Highway this year.
• 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.
• New mothers and families missing out on crucial support stem from failure to act on health workforce shortages by Andrews Labor government
  New mothers risk missing crucial milestones to detect developmental delays in babies and post-natal depression with the shortage of maternal and child health (MCH) nurses that's facing Victoria's health system.
• Refusal to support immediate reforms on mental health and wellbeing boost for young Victorians by Andrews Labor government
  A plan to boost youth mental health services by 2026 is years too late for children who are suffering right now and could benefit from other immediate reforms that the Andrews Labor government has refused to support.
• Sale Oval precinct opens after $1.6M redevelopment funded by Wellington Shire Council, Coalition government and John Leslie Foundation
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester officially opened the Sale Oval redevelopment today alongside Wellington Shire Councillor John Tatterson and community members.
• 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.
• Worker shortage will derail Victorian and Gippsland farms and agriculture businesses
  The Andrews Labor Government has failed to step up to the plate to solve a desperate shortage of workers across Victorian farms and agriculture businesses.
• New survey shows declining youth mental health post pandemic highlighting need to rejuvenate Victorian mental health workforce
  A new survey today detailing the declining mental health of young people after the pandemic has further highlighted the urgent need to rejuvenate Victoria's fatigued mental health workforce.
• Commitment to build new hospitals for West Gippsland and other regions from Victorian Liberal and Nationals government
  Regional Victorians deserve better care closer to home, which is what a Liberal and Nationals government will deliver.
• Northe calls for Gippsland hospice care facility in Latrobe Valley and proposed Hazelwood House in Churchill
  Message from Mr Russell Northe MP to Gippsland Hospice Family to advocate for the consideration of a dedicated hospice for the region.
• Positive plan for Victorian women and girls to regain lost ground after six COVID lockdowns and two years restrictions
  Marking the contributions of Victorian women and girls to end toxic culture in the workplace and 'Break the Bias' to forge a path forward to gender equality.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Victorian Nationals announce new policy to bring down energy bills and invest in clean hydrogen technologies
  Rising household energy bills are just one of the painful financial impacts of the skyrocketing cost-of-living for regional Victorians.
• 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.
• New Maffra Weir fishway to help increase sustainable habitat for endangered and native fish funded $10M by Victorian government
  Endangered and significant native fish species will soon be able to travel upstream along the Macalister River, thanks to the Andrews Labor government's investment in a new fishway at the Maffra Weir.
• Mallacoota Gun Club gets $9000 for new solar power system from federal government funding
  Funding for the re-establishment of the facility.
• 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.
• Regions in Victorians like Gippsland should be released from the seven-day lockdown says Peter Walsh
  Misinformation about the COVID test resulted in the statewide lockdown.
• New data shows thousands of Victorian youth in crisis waiting 60 days or more for mental health appointments
  New data revealed today shows thousands of vulnerable youths at crisis point are now waiting more than 60 days for mental health appointments.
• 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
• Victorian regional infrastructure 2022 election guarantee of 25 percent increase to projects from Liberals and National parties
  Opposition Leader Matthew Guy and Leader of The Nationals Peter Walsh have announced today that a Liberals and Nationals government elected in November will implement the nation's first Regional Infrastructure Guarantee.
• Bass Coast Shire Council calls for Inverloch to remain in the State District of Bass in response to proposed change to State Electoral boundaries
  Bass Coast Shire Council will develop a submission, advocating for Inverloch to remain in the State District of Bass, following a proposal to change State Electoral boundaries.
• 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 Valley Authority (LVA) gets $7.5M additional funding via Victorian Ladder - Step Up program to create more jobs
  The Andrews Labor government will keep helping create more jobs in the Latrobe Valley, with another $7.5 million investment in the Latrobe Valley Authority (LVA).
• 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.
• Victorian Nationals plan to boost regional housing by releasing 50,000 new residential land lots
  The Nationals opposing the new tax, to help see the rural and regional towns grow and thrive.
• Darren Chester challenges Victorian Labor politicians to reject plan to shut down timber industry in Gippsland
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is challenging Victorian Labor politicians to reject the Andrews Government plan to shut down the native hardwood timber industry by 2030.
• Vaccine mandates without reasonable exemptions are not only unconscionable - they are criminal
  Such restrictions must be necessary and proportionate to the risk and balanced against individual rights.
• Gippsland Rail Line upgrade that will strengthen Latrobe City funded $532.8M by federal and Victorian governments
  Latrobe City Council is pleased the federal and Victorian governments are investing in local rail connections that will benefit Latrobe City residents with improvement works at Morwell and Traralgon stations underway.
• Victorian Nationals continue to stand with regional Victorians who are committed to action on climate change
  The Victorian Nationals continue to stand with regional Victorians who are committed to action on climate change.
• Victorians will have no confidence for disability sector as confused minister offers no clarity on incorrect budget allocation
  Victorians with a disability got little explanation today for a $15 million "error" in the state budget papers that saw funding "incorrectly allocated" to the wrong portfolio area.
• Victorians urged to avoid and alcohol drugs around the water during holiday heatwave to avoid drowning
  Victorians are encouraged to avoid alcohol and drugs around water in any part of the state to promote water safety.
• 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.
• Impact from archaic seclusion and restraint approach on complex mental patients ignored by Andrews Labor government
  VMIAC found Victoria's mental health services were using physical restraints and seclusion more often in 2021 than the previous year, with 56 percent of all services reporting an increase.
• 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.
• Victorian Independent Remuneration Tribunal makes first determination on payment of councillor allowances for East Gippsland Shire
  The Victorian Independent Remuneration Tribunal has made its first determination on the payment of mayoral, deputy mayoral and councillor allowances.
• Regions like Gippsland out of lockdown but it's the lockdown they didn't need to have
  Truth about the COVID-19 information hidden to the Victorians.
• Victorian election promise for $600M West Gippsland Healthcare Group upgrade from Liberals and Nationals
  Baw Baw Shire Council has welcomed an election promise from the Liberals and Nationals for a $600 million new or upgraded West Gippsland Hospital should they win government.
• Baw Baw Shire Council joins Victorian Energy Collaboration to help take more action on renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions
  Baw Baw Shire Council has joined the Victorian Energy Collaboration (VECO) which will supply 100% renewable energy to street lights and multiple large facilities within the Shire.
• Timber shortage from East Gippsland lockdown risks Christmas shortages in medicine and goods
  Support will focus on restoring Victoria's reputation as a manufacturing powerhouse prioritising support for industries.
• Victorian Country roads miss out again as further $24M has been cut from road asset management program
  Country roads miss out again, while the regional development budget decimated the hopes of regional Victorians for significant funding contributions.
• Victorian growers need thousands - not hundreds - of workers to meet workforce demand
  An extended seasonal worker deal with Tasmania will finally deliver workers into Victoria, but it will do little to fill the yawning shortage of pickers across the state.
• Yinnar Primary School and stadium gets $7.3M for upgrades and modernisation from Victorian 2022/23 budget
  The Andrews Labor government is making sure students at Yinnar Primary School have better learning environments, with a huge investment to deliver a major upgrade for the growing school.
• 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.
• New Bullock Island bridge that links town to redeveloped facilities progress with funding from previous federal government
  The new Bullock Island bridge and associated works are starting to take shape, according to local MP Darren Chester.
• Victorian Liberal Nationals announce commitment to deliver largest ever investment in manufacturing
  The Liberal Nationals are proposing a $1 billion fund to encourage businesses to bring facilities and jobs back to Victoria, grow local manufacturing and boost innovation economy.
• Timber shortage from East Gippsland lockdown risks Christmas shortages in medicine and goods
  Chocolate, beer and medicine face massive supply disruptions over Christmas if the nation's largest timber pallet manufacturer is denied access to timber.
• 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.
• Victorian Electoral Commission calls for candidates for the upcoming South Gippsland Shire Council election from 16 September 2021
  Nominations to stand as a candidate for the South Gippsland Shire Council general election open on Thursday 16 September.
• 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.
• Worsening Victorian healthcare crisis and hospital workforce neglect has left another Gippsland family in mourning
  Tragically another Victorian has died as he waited more than three hours on an ambulance stretcher for emergency care.
• Raymond Island Koala Trail and Discovery Experience gets $442,000 funding to upgrade from state government and council
  Raymond Island's Koala Trail & Discovery Experience is getting a facelift, with Stage 1 of a project to revitalise and improve the visitor experience now underway.
• Victorian Remembrance Day attendance under a cloud of doubt
  Limiting the Remembrance Day attendees, allowing only the fully vaccinated and at 50 percent capacity.
• Bowls Victorian Open to be held in Latrobe City on 25 March to 2 April 2023
  Bowls Victoria, together with Latrobe City Council, are incredibly excited to officially announce a landmark 5-year agreement for the staging of the Victorian Open, commencing March 2023.
• 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.
• 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.
• Pandemic-driven property price rises putting the squeeze on Gippsland and other regional home buyers
  Property and rental price hike in regional Victoria, while availability in other areas are dropping.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Mental health cut $60M from Beyond Blue, Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia, Lifeline and Kids Helpline by Andrews Labor government
  Mental Health Minister James Merlino has confirmed almost $60 million of cruel cuts to mental health programs that were designed to help struggling Victorians recover from the pandemic.
• Pandemic frightens people but that should not stop us asking any questions like if vaccine mandates are effective and what alternative treatments are there
  Thoughts and questions about the mandatory vaccinations and vaccine passports.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Funding applications open for new $3M Culture, Heritage and Arts Regional Tourism (CHART) federal program
  The Morrison Government is investing more than $1 billion into the arts and creative sector in 2021‑22.
• Liberal Nationals urging support for simple changes to transform Victorian children mental health
  Today, the Victorian government finally backflipped on its opposition to much-needed reforms that will unlock more mental health practitioners to work in Victorian schools.
• 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.
• 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.
• Gaps persist in Victorian mental health workforce that don't address vulnerable women adequately
  Immediate reform must be implemented to deliver more workers for Victoria's over-burdened mental health workforce if today's pledge for acute beds is to make a dent in the shadow pandemic.
• 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.
• 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.
• Early Christmas gift for Newborough and Sandy Point Men's Sheds in Gippsland
  The Morrison-Joyce Government is providing an early Christmas present to Monash by providing $6928 to continue to support the health of men through the National Shed Development Programme (NSDP).
• Moves to protect Victorian farmers from farm trespass being made by Liberals and Nationals
  Amendments to strengthen the consequences for law-breaking activists caught trespassing on Victorian farms will be moved in Victorian Parliament today by the Liberals and Nationals.
• 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.
• 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.
• Liveability and growth reduced in regional Victoria from highly under-serviced by public transport
  Extreme gaps on regional Victoria's public transportation shows that the government fails to provide a plan for the recovery of the region, making it hard for the region's industry and producers to even lesser productivity and profit.
• 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.
• Coming opportunities for Victorian regional tourism economy as 2026 Commonwealth Games steadily approaches
  A boost to the regional tourism economy is just one of a swag of benefits for country Victorians ahead of the Commonwealth Games in 2026.
• Liberal Nationals support move to deliver hundreds of extra workers for Victoria's under-resourced mental health workforce
  Government needs to boost mental health support through simple reforms to get them through the lockdowns.
• 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.
• 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.
• Victoria's Agriculture Minister dismissive on looming Christmas supply disruptions from timber shortage
  With the loss of jobs in small timber communities could result to Christmas grocery shortages with some supermarkets desperate for pallets, and this is what the Labor government needs to understand before releasing the native timber policy.
• Tim Bull says Victorian protests should never be held at the Shrine of Remembrance
  Protesters violating the sanctity of the Shrine of Remembrance.
• 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.
• 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 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.
• Regional train commuters stranded across Victoria as V/Line suddenly shuts down across network from storm faults, breakdowns and works
  Reports of constant breakdowns and cancellations came as the Labor government pulled investment out of regional trains to put into the city.
• Bass Coast competitors return to Life Saving Victoria 2022 Motorsport inflatable rescue boat premiership season
  Life Saving Victoria's (LSV's) 2022 TRE Motorsport inflatable rescue boat (IRB) Premiership Season.
• 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.
• Damning picture of illegal drug use across Melbourne and regional Victoria Data painted by Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission
  Injecting room in the wrong location as the government's response on their neglect on the triple zero emergency service and failure to plan on Victoria's health workforce.
• 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.
• Nationals plan for new hospitals and more health services to fill shortages in regional Victoria
  New and upgraded hospitals and more beds to treat vulnerable Victorians desperate to shake the insidious claws of drug and alcohol addiction will change lives and save lives.
• Dinosaur from Bass Coast named as Victoria's official State Fossil Emblem
  Proposed dinosaur trail, to give an experience and understanding about the fossil and dinosaurs that once roamed Bass Coast.
• Regions in Victoria like Gippsland need a guaranteed positive way forward crippling 18 months of uncertainty and lockdown
  The time has come to guarantee a positive way forward for regional Victorian communities that have been crippled by 18 months of uncertainty and lockdown.
• New Australian Agriculture Worker Visa from Liberal and National federal will be a boon for west and south Gippsland
  Farmers and primary producers in Monash are a step closer to benefitting from the Liberal and National Government's new Australian Agriculture Worker Visa.
• Labor appoints Labor mate Ben Hubbard as the new Chair and Director of VicForests to put jobs through wood chipper
  A former Chief-of-Staff to Labor Prime Minister Julia Gillard has been covertly appointed to lead the Andrews Labor government's radical destruction of Victoria's sustainable native timber industry.
• Hospitality businesses across Victoria suffer losses from worsening post-pandemic staff shortages
  More hospitality businesses across Victoria are today reporting losses due to the worsening post-pandemic staffing shortages in the industry.
• Bass Coast competitors return to Life Saving Victoria 2022 Motorsport inflatable rescue boat premiership season
  Inflatable rescue boat (IRB) racing competitors from Venus Bay and Inverloch Surf Life Saving Clubs (SLSCs) returned to the Surf Coast on Sunday for Life Saving Victoria's 2022 TRE Motorsport inflatable rescue boat (IRB) Premiership Season.
• Victoria risks losing its title as Australia's agriculture powerhouse as $500M wiped from food and fibre sector while NSW gains $1B
  Victoria risks losing its crown as Australia's agriculture powerhouse according to new food and fibre export figures released this month.
• Sea electric vehicle manufacturing plant for Latrobe Valley abandoned
  State Government has finally confirmed that the proposed SEA Electric vehicle manufacturing plant.
• Dawson Street, Maffra Road and Princes Highway intersection gets $300M upgrade from previous Coalition federal government
  Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says he's keen to secure federal government funding to upgrade a notorious intersection on the Princes Highway in Sale.
• 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.
• 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 Regional Gallery gets LED lighting upgrade of $71,724 investment through Victoria's Regional Collections Access Program
  Latrobe City Council welcomes the Victorian government's $71,724 investment in LED lighting upgrades at Latrobe Regional Gallery.
• 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.
• 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.
• What is Labor's plan to keep Victoria's supply chain moving with these constant lockdowns
  Victorians have come to rely on a steady stream of food delivery and online shopping to get through another lockdown.
• Foster Stadium upgraded with $253,000 from South Gippsland Shire Council and $2.26M from Victorian government
  Local basketball, netball, football, and badminton are just some of the sports set to benefit from the recent transformation of the Foster Stadium thanks to the Victorian government.
• Voting on Victoria's worst roads to help develop a priority list to give to the Roads Minister encouraged to all Victorian motorists
  Interim results of a safety campaign asking drivers to name Victoria's worst road have called out roads in eastern and central Victoria as the most dangerous, but there's still more time to have your say.
• 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.
• Campaign to identify Victoria's most dangerous and hazardous roads launched by Shadow Minister for Roads Steph Ryan with Matthew Guy
  Victorians are being asked to name the state's worst roads in a new campaign to identify the most dangerous hazards that are risking lives on our roads every single day.
• Victoria's family violence crisis continues to worsen according to Independent Crime Statistics Agency
  Family violence offences in Victoria have reached harrowing highs.
• 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.
• Gippsland Veterans Welfare Centre in Sale receives $2M facility upgrade from federal government
  The Gippsland Veterans Welfare Centre in Sale will receive a $2 million boost if the federal coalition government is returned on Saturday.
• Parks Victoria failed again to accurately report on rebuild of Thurra River Bridge two years after fire
  Parks Victoria has yet again failed to provide accurate information on the rebuild of the Thurra River Bridge.
• Glengarry Mechanics Institute officially re-opens after $557,074 refurbished funded by federal and Victorian governments
  Latrobe City Council in partnership with Member for Gippsland Darren Chester MP, Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing MP and the Latrobe Valley Authority officially opened the refurbished Glengarry Mechanics Institute yesterday.
• 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.
• 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.
• A new skate park for Rawson community in Baw Baw Shire
  Rawson locals have come together to celebrate the official opening of their new skate park, backed by funding from the Andrews Labor Government.
• Libraries Victoria App makes it easier for readers to access thousands of eBooks, eAudiobooks or digital magazines for all ages and interests
  A new online catalogue and digital services makes it easier to browse and borrow, from home, work or even on the go, any time of the day or night.
• Public schools ideal to support better mental wellbeing of Victorian students but not enough workers to deliver it
  A pledge to better support Victorian students to settle back into school after months of isolating lockdowns will only make a difference if there's enough mental health practitioners to deliver it.
• Steph Ryan says Victoria's recovery roadmap must have hope for regional hospitality venues that are on their knees
  Victoria's roadmap to recovery must include hope for regional hospitality venues that are on their knees.
• Traralgon and Morwell stations get major upgrades as part of $504M Gippsland railway line funding from Victorian and federal governments
  Final designs have been released showcasing the major train station upgrades at Traralgon and Morwell Stations.
• Maffra Football Netball Club opens new facilities with shared funding from Sport and Recreation Victoria and Wellington Shire Council
  New, modern netball facilities were officially opened today at Maffra Recreation Reserve.
• Kilcunda Skate and Play project gets $250,000 funding from Bass Coast Shire Council and Victorian government
  Bass Coast Shire Council was excited to join Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale MP in Kilcunda today (Monday, 23 May), who announced $250,000 for the town's skate and play project, this is in addition to the $325,000 committed by council.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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
• Students in regional Victoria such as Gippsland should not have to endure more weeks locked out of the classroom
  Students in regional Victoria should not have to endure more weeks locked out of the classroom.
• 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.
• Life saving Victoria awards members from Gippsland at Cape Paterson Surf Life Saving Club
  Life Saving Victoria (LSV) has recognised members from Bass, Gippsland and Peninsula for their outstanding achievements in operations, club services, development, training and sports during season 2021-22 at its Valuing Volunteers events.
• Applications open for funding for Gippsland Logistics Precinct in Morwell to create jobs in Latrobe Valley
  The Victorian government is unlocking more job opportunities for rural and regional Victorian communities, with the next round of the flagship Regional Jobs and Infrastructure fund now open for applications.
• New home for Maffra Neighbourhood House with $54,345 from federal Building Better Regions Fund
  Maffra Neighbourhood House will have its own dedicated facility thanks to funding from the Federal Government.
• 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.
• Latrobe Regional Hospital expands Mobile Targeted Assertive Outreach mental health team
  Government investment for services and support for young Victorians.
• 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.
• New Mallacoota Community Clubrooms a focal point for township
  The new Mallacoota Community Clubrooms were officially opened on Sunday 11 July, providing a purpose-built facility and focal point for the community.
• Nationals alternative roadmap for Victoria and Gippsland to reopen, rebuild and recover out of COVID restrictions delivers certainty and positivity
  Victorians are looking for an iron-clad guarantee on the road to reopen, rebuild and recover.
• Restoring Victoria to manufacturing powerhouse with $2.5 billion rebuilding jobs, bringing Manufacturing Home Fund
  A vibrant manufacturing sector is critically important to help our state recover and rebuild and Globally, manufacturing is transforming rapidly, and Victoria must keep up.
• New website to showcase East Gippsland
  A new website that will improve the East Gippsland visitor experience is now live.
• 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.
• New Turra Pavilion at Trafalgar Recreation Reserve is new home of Trafalgar Victory Football Club and Trafalgar Boxing Club
  Trafalgar Recreation Reserve's new Turra Pavilion will be open on early 2022, catering the needs of sporting clubs.
• 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.
• New oval lighting for Inverloch, Dalyston and Cowes recreation reserves from Bass Coast Shire Council
  Bass Coast Shire Council will install new oval lighting at the Inverloch, Dalyston and Cowes recreation reserves over coming months.
• New footpath along Howitt Avenue and Eastwood Road to make a safer route to school and the shops
  East Gippsland Shire Council starts work this week on a new footpath that will provide Eastwood locals with a safer route to school and the shops, and offer a great reason to leave the car at home.
• New facilities construction in progress as part of the $400,000 project at Lakes Entrance Recreation Reserve
  Local MP Darren Chester said the new facilities were a part of a $400,000 project at the recreation reserve.
• Smart Enough Factory program for Latrobe City small to medium businesses gets $1.36M funding from Victorian government
  The Smart Enough Factory program got underway in Latrobe City recently, supporting manufacturers to bring digital technologies into their operations to drive value and productivity.
• New date set for the Erica Country Expo
  The Erica Country Expo has been rescheduled to a new date due to ongoing public health concerns impacting the State, event will take place on the new date of Saturday 15 January 2022.
• New Gippsland culinary experiences at Sardine Cantina in Paynesville and Sodafish in Lakes Entrance
  Put a pin in your foodie maps, new Gippsland culinary experiences await.
• Fish unloading jetty at Lakes Entrance to be replaced with $687,000 funding to Gippsland Ports from Victorian government
  Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull, is delighted $687,000 in State funds have been allocated to Gippsland Ports to replace its jetty at the Lakes Entrance Fishermen's Co-Operative.
• New York Times recommends to see Bass Coast's own Penguin Parade
  Bass Coast's own Penguin Parade featured at number 24 on The New York Times' 2022 list of 52 places to visit.
• 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.
• New hospital for West Gippsland endorsed by Baw Baw Shire Council
  Council has endorsed its full support for a new hospital in West Gippsland.
• Three new breweries in from Orbost, Warragul and Traralgon helping put Gippsland on the beer lover's map
  Three new breweries in Gippsland for you to visit.
• New environmental and cultural centre in Wellington Shire named 'Nakunbalook'
  Wellington Shire Council and Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) are thrilled to announce the naming of a new environmental and cultural centre - Nakunbalook.
• State lifeline needed to make sure Victorian agricultural shows survive
  Victoria's agricultural shows and field days are desperate for a financial lifeline to ensure their survival into next year as COVID uncertainty continues to force more cancellations.
• Change in federal health care policy destroys opportunities for regional communities
  Government sugar-coating bad policy that damages the region's opportunities.
• Federal program of regional grants like Building Better Regions Fund need overhaul
  The Federal Government should overhaul its regional grants funding programs which are failing to deliver fair outcomes for communities like Gippsland, according to local MP Darren Chester.
• Gippsland arts, cultural and heritage organisations can apply for grants from federal CHART program to support rebuilding and preservation
  Government continues to deliver record support to the creative and cultural sector, with 47 new projects.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• New kerbside bin calendars now available for Bass Coast Shire Council
  Bass Coast Shire Council's 2022/23 kerbside bin calendars are now available.
• New 'Erica Country Expo' set to drive local recovery in October
  Baw Baw Shire Council has partnered with engaged community members and residents to deliver The Erica Country Expo, a full day, family friendly and community led event set to take over the Erica Recreational Reserve this October.
• Russell Broadbent calls talks on a return to self-sufficiency
  Government to identify take responsibility for need to prioritise the citizens health and wellbeing.
• Extra $1.6 million for critical child care services in West and South Gippsland
  Government assistance committed to giving access to families for a quality child care.
• Students from regional Victoria that started university in 2021 can apply for scholarship up to $18,000
  Federal Member for Monash Russell Broadbent said students from regional areas who started university this year could still apply for a scholarship worth up to $18,000.
• Steph Ryan will not be seeking re-election at 2022 Victorian election in November
  Member for Euroa and Deputy Leader of The Nationals Steph Ryan MP will not be contesting her seat at the 2022 Victorian election in November.
• Third batch has $136,000 grants from Culture, Heritage and Arts Regional Tourism program to deliver support to creative and cultural sector
  Morrison government's funding support for the creative and cultural sector through Culture, Heritage and Arts Regional Tourism (CHART) program.
• Latrobe City congradulates Harriet Shing Eastern Victoria MP becoming Minister for Water, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Equality
  Latrobe City Council welcomes the news of Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing MP announcement/appointment as Minister for Water, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Equality.
• Wellington shire residents now eligible for storm recovery assistance from Federal government
  Funding to provide assistance to the residents affected by the storm in their recovery process.
• Learn CPR as Life Saving Victoria reports highest level of drowning incidents for May 2022
  Life Saving Victoria is calling on people in remote and regional communities to check safety measures and learn CPR heading into the cooler months, as data shows May has the highest period of risk for irrigation channel drownings in Victoria.
• Darren Chester urges Timber Towns Victoria Roundtable to get involved in the federal election campaign with jobs and environmental messages
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has told a Timber Towns Victoria Roundtable 'we need to keep fighting to save our timber industry because people and wildlife die in poorly managed forests'.