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Labor must address long wait for public housing

A call to the Andrews Labor government to address a shortage of public housing across Gippsland.

By Portal Admin - 24th June 2018 - Back to News

Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Melina Bath, has called on the Andrews Labor government to address a shortage of public housing across Gippsland.

Following the release of a parliamentary committee report into the Victorian Government’s Public Housing Renewal program, Ms Bath said the issue of lengthy wait times posed quite a challenge for many of the Latrobe Valley’s most vulnerable.

"The wait time for public housing can take anywhere between three months to several years, which is too long," Ms Bath said.

The report also revealed the number of people on the Victorian Housing Register increased by about 1,500 people in the first three months of this year.

According to the report, there are now over 82,000 people, including 24,622 children seeking public housing.

Ms Bath said it was concerning that public housing tenants were being relocated to rural and regional areas without the provision of adequate support.

"Additional support services in the areas of mental health, drug rehabilitation and domestic violence are vital in supporting local communities at risk. We need more wrap around services that work towards positive outcomes," Ms Bath said.

"Funding for long term programs that provide real solutions are essential for people with complex needs".

The Nationals Candidate for Morwell, Sheridan Bond, shared the concerns with an emphasis on the impact for single people on the public housing wait list.

"Single people often seek accommodation in rooming houses where factors like personal security and privacy can be at risk" said Ms Bond.

"The Andrews Labor Government must make sure we have the right resources in the Valley to meet the needs of people seeking public housing."

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: support@gippsland.com

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  East Gippsland Shire Council is developing a Stormwater Management Plan and invites community feedback to identify flooding, drainage issues, and practical solutions, helping plan safer, more resilient local infrastructure.
• Nicholson Street mall public toilet temporarily closed amid vandalism, anti‑social behaviour and safety concerns
  The Nicholson Street Mall public toilet in Bairnsdale is temporarily closed due to repeated vandalism and anti-social behaviour, with Council working alongside traders, Victoria Police, and stakeholders on safety and revitalisation.
• Bass Coast Shire Council invites public submissions on Inverloch Surf Parade one-way proposal for shared path completion by 1 April 2026
  Bass Coast Council invites public submissions on Inverloch Surf Parade one-way proposal, enabling final shared path stage, preserving car parking, addressing coastal erosion, and completing safe Inverloch-to-Wonthaggi trail connection.
• Tim Bull calls for more train carriages and bus services to match free public transport amid overcrowding concerns on Gippsland routes
  Tim Bull is calling on the Victorian government to match free public transport with more trains and buses, addressing severe overcrowding and service capacity issues in Gippsland.
• Latrobe City Mayor Cr Gibson urges governments to reconsider brown coal oil production to address Australia’s fuel crisis and energy security
  Latrobe City Mayor urges State and Federal governments to reconsider brown coal-to-oil production as a solution to Australia’s fuel crisis and long-term energy security challenges.
• East Gippsland Shire Council calls for greater public land investment ahead of 2026 Victorian state election
  East Gippsland Shire Council is urging greater public land investment before the 2026 Victorian election to improve pest control, environmental management, tourism infrastructure, local jobs and long-term community outcomes.
• Tim Bull says East Gippsland faces a housing crisis, with social homes declining despite population growth
  Victoria’s social housing crisis deepens as Labor policies drive rental providers away, reducing stock. Tim Bull warns record waiting lists and rising homelessness demand urgent government action.
• East Gippsland hotels and publicans recognised as finalists in 2026 AHA Victoria State Awards for Excellence across multiple categories
  East Gippsland hotels and staff are finalists in the 2026 AHA Victoria State Awards, recognising community spirit, hospitality excellence and local contributions across multiple categories.
• Danny O’Brien criticises ongoing social housing maintenance delays leaving vulnerable Gippslanders waiting far too long
  Danny O’Brien warns ongoing delays in social housing maintenance leave vulnerable Gippslanders waiting months, highlighting a vacant Foster property and urging timely repairs and better decision-making to address shortages.
• Tim Bull highlights East Gippsland patients facing excessive dental wait times amid ongoing public system mismanagement concerns
  East Gippsland patients face over 18-month waits for public dental care, with private dentists struggling under short voucher timelines and delayed government payments, highlighting systemic mismanagement, says Tim Bull.
• Leongatha worker housing project delivers 14 apartments to attract essential staff and support regional growth
  Construction has begun on 14 worker apartments at Woorayl Lodge in Leongatha, providing accommodation for essential workers and families, boosting regional liveability and addressing workforce shortages through the Regional Worker Accommodation Fund.
• Latrobe City invites local artists to join new Public Art Artist Register for murals and creative city projects until 10 February 2026
  Latrobe City Council invites local artists to join its Public Art Artist Register, offering paid mural opportunities, enhancing public spaces, supporting tourism, and connecting artists with future creative projects.
• Bass Coast Shire Council Draft Dogs in Public Places Guidelines community consultations open until 13 May 2026
  Bass Coast Council has released Draft Dogs in Public Places Guidelines for consultation, supporting the Domestic Animal Management Plan with feedback open until 13 May 2026 to improve dog management.
• SEC acquires Delburn Wind Farm, Gippsland’s first public wind project, creating jobs and boosting local energy and economy by 2028
  The SEC’s acquisition of Delburn Wind Farm will deliver Gippsland’s first public wind project by 2028, creating 300 construction jobs, long-term careers, and $22 million in community benefits.
• Baw Baw Shire Council adopts new public and civic art policies to guide future stewardship
  Baw Baw Shire has adopted new Public Art and Civic Art Collection policies to guide stewardship, expand public access and preserve more than 320 artworks for community enjoyment.
• Kay Abude appointed lead artist for Women's Public Art Program in Wonthaggi honouring Miners’ Women’s Auxiliary
  Contemporary artist Kay Abude has been appointed to create a major Wonthaggi public artwork honouring the Miners’ Women’s Auxiliary, with community workshops and Victorian government support celebrating local history.
• Victoria’s crime crisis worsens as police numbers fall, offences rise, and station hours are reduced under Labor government
  Victoria’s crime crisis worsens under Labor with 368 fewer police, rising offences, unsolved cases, reduced station hours, and retail theft surging, prompting calls for proper resourcing and crime prevention.
• Bass Coast Shire Council adopts new 'Dogs in Public Places Guidelines for 2026–2029' across municipality
  Bass Coast Shire Council has adopted the Dogs in Public Places Guidelines 2026–2029, establishing evidence-based rules for dog access on council land while balancing recreation, community safety, and environmental protection.
• Have your say on East Gippsland public toilets review until 9 February 2026
  East Gippsland Shire Council invites residents and visitors to share feedback on Council-managed public toilets, helping improve cleanliness, accessibility, and maintenance through its Public Amenities Service Review, open until February 2026.
• Discover Blue Pool in Briagolong State Forest with nature, water fun, walks, and local gems
  Blue Pool in Briagolong State Forest offers swimming, walking trails, and camping, with nearby pubs, breweries, and attractions providing a perfect Gippsland getaway for nature, adventure, and local experiences.
• Discover Blue Pool in Briagolong State Forest with nature, water fun, walks, and local gems
  Blue Pool in Briagolong State Forest offers swimming, walking trails, and camping, with nearby pubs, breweries, and attractions providing a perfect Gippsland getaway for nature, adventure, and local experiences.
• Dr Patrick Kinsella’s decades-long contributions to healthcare, sport, media, and community celebrated at 2026 Australia Day Awards
  Dr Patrick Kinsella, East Gippsland Australia Day Ambassador, has impacted healthcare, education, sport, media, and community life for over 40 years; residents are invited to celebrate at 21 January awards.
• Danny O'Brien says Gippsland roads among state's most dangerous after years of neglect under Allan Labor government
  Danny O'Brien says new AusRAP data shows many Gippsland roads are unsafe after years of Labor neglect, criticising the government for lowering speed limits instead of properly fixing deteriorating roads.
• Danny O'Brien calls on Allan government to support Nyora early childhood education centre, improving access and community connections
  The Nationals urge the Allan government to collaborate with Nyora community and education stakeholders to establish a local early childhood centre, improving access, school transitions, enrolments, and long-term community sustainability.
• South Gippsland Shire Council seeks community feedback on draft Public Transparency Policy before consultation closes 12 August 2026
  Council is inviting community feedback on its Draft Public Transparency Policy, outlining access to council information and Freedom of Information requirements. The policy is available for review, with submissions closing Wednesday 12 August 2026.
• Peri Urban Councils advocate for housing, infrastructure, and policy recognition with state government
  Peri Urban Councils Victoria met government leaders at Spring Street, advocating for housing solutions, essential infrastructure funding, and policy recognition to support rapidly growing peri urban communities sustainably.
• Gilsenan Reserve in Paynesville to gain modern, accessible public toilets supporting playground, skate park, and markets
  Paynesville’s Gilsenan Reserve will get modern, accessible public toilets by June 2026, supporting playground, skate park, and market users, while ensuring minimal disruption and ongoing community updates during construction.
• Berninneit becomes Australia's First Passivhaus-Certified Public Centre with theatre, library, gallery and museum complex
  Berninneit in Cowes has achieved Passivhaus certification, becoming Australia's first public centre combining a theatre, library, gallery and museum to meet the internationally recognised sustainability standard.
• Darren Chester supports ASIC Traralgon presence, strengthening regional jobs and long-term public service workforce stability
  After touring the facility and meeting staff, Mr Chester said ASIC also benefited because country people were more likely to remain in their roles and provide a continuity of service for the organisation.
• Peri-urban councils warn Gippsland housing crisis threatens productivity and federal economic ambitions
  Peri Urban Councils Victoria warns soaring prices and falling approvals are hurting productivity, urging federal and state governments to fund infrastructure reforms to unlock peri-urban housing supply and ease affordability pressures.
• Jodie Ashworth elected mayor of East Gippsland Shire Council, committed to strong, transparent, collaborative leadership
  Paynesville’s Jodie Ashworth elected Mayor of East Gippsland, bringing leadership, community experience, and commitment to strong governance, transparency, and strategic, future-focused planning for the region.
• Gippsland’s growth at risk without urgent government investment in housing, infrastructure, warns One Gippsland Chair
  One Gippsland warns growth could stall without urgent investment in housing and infrastructure to support workforce, energy projects, and address social, affordable housing shortages across the region.
• Danny O’Brien cites Winnindoo CFA station delays and cost blowouts despite long-promised funding since 2020
  Danny O’Brien says Labor mismanagement is causing CFA station delays, cost blowouts and wasted spending, leaving regional volunteers waiting for essential infrastructure upgrades.
• Melina Bath slams Agriculture Minister Ros Spence for ignoring Gippsland farmers' struggles under Labor's tax regime
  Melina Bath criticised Agriculture Minister Ros Spence for refusing to advocate for Gippsland farmers, citing VFF survey results showing overwhelming concern over new taxes and Labor's disregard for regional agriculture.
• North Sale wetlands project unlocks housing growth, reduces flood risk and creates valuable community green space
  The North Sale Wetlands and Biodiversity Reserve will reduce flood risk, unlock up to 500 new homes, support regional growth and jobs, and provide a five-hectare community green space with native landscaping.
• South Gippsland Water seeks community input on long-term water security, climate resilience and wastewater planning
  South Gippsland Water is seeking community feedback to guide its Urban Water Strategy, planning long-term water security, climate resilience and wastewater services for the region.
• Gippsland’s growth at risk without urgent government investment in housing and socially affordable homes, warns Cr Nathan Hersey
  One Gippsland warns Gippsland’s growth risks stalling without urgent government investment in housing, infrastructure, and social housing to support workforce, industries, and rapidly growing communities across the region.
• CFMEU corruption report exposes organised crime links, $15B project blowouts, prompting Melina Bath to demand Labor accountability
  The ‘Rotting from the Top’ report exposes serious CFMEU corruption, links to organised crime, and $15 billion in project blowouts, prompting Nationals MP Melina Bath to demand Allan Labor government accountability.
• New drinking fountains installed in Sale and Briagolong Parks to promote health, sustainability and community wellbeing
  Gippsland Water and Wellington Shire Council have installed two new drinking fountains in Sale and Briagolong, promoting health, sustainability, and reusable bottles. Featuring artwork by Gunai artist Alice Pepper, they support community wellbeing.
• New drinking fountains installed in Sale and Briagolong Parks to promote health, sustainability and community wellbeing
  Gippsland Water and Wellington Shire Council have installed two new drinking fountains in Sale and Briagolong, promoting health, sustainability, and reusable bottles. Featuring artwork by Gunai artist Alice Pepper, they support community wellbeing.
• Danny O'Brien criticises Allan government over 147 unavailable social housing properties across Gippsland South electorate
  Nationals MP Danny O'Brien says 147 social housing properties in Gippsland South remain unavailable, raising concerns over housing shortages, transparency and delays returning vacant public homes to tenants.
• Tim Bull says Health Minister Thomas will only consider the fully prepared Buchan project alongside other priorities
  The Allan Labor government has refused funding for the new $6.5 million Buchan Bush Nursing Centre, leaving the ready-to-build project and vital rural healthcare services in limbo, says Tim Bull.
• Marlo named finalist in Victorian Top Tourism Towns Award, with community urging public votes to help secure 2026 title win
  Marlo has been named a finalist in the Victorian Top Tourism Towns Award for the second consecutive year, with strong community collaboration and public voting now open to help secure the 2026 title win.
• Celebrating Omeo volunteer Tracey Ah Sam for long-term service, leadership and dedication to community sport
  East Gippsland celebrates Omeo’s Tracey Ah Sam, Citizen of the Year, recognising her decades of volunteer service, community leadership and contribution to local sport and events.
• Bass Coast Shire Council approves Draft Dust Suppression Seal Removal Policy for public consultation, allowing resident-funded sealing on 19 March 2026
  Bass Coast Council has approved the Draft Dust Suppression Seal Removal Policy for consultation, allowing residents to fund permanent road sealing as aging dust suppressant seals are removed across 30 streets.
• Tap and go payment rolls out across Victorian buses, making public transport easier for passengers statewide
  Tap and go payments are rolling out across Victoria's myki-enabled buses, allowing passengers to pay with bank cards, smartphones or smart watches while maintaining myki as an alternative option.
• Communications Officer Sammi Reynolds celebrated for lifelong volunteering and commitment to Orbost community service
  East Gippsland Shire Council celebrates National Volunteer Week recognising staff member Sammi Reynolds, a lifelong Orbost volunteer, and encourages nominations for the Volunteer Honour Roll by 15 May.
• Melina Bath celebrates Landcare's 40 years while urging long-term Victorian funding certainty for volunteers and programs
  Landcare volunteers marked 40 years at State Parliament as Melina Bath praised their environmental work and urged the Victorian government to provide long-term funding certainty.
• Productivity Commission backs Peri Urban Councils' call for infrastructure before housing targets across Victoria
  The Productivity Commission has backed Peri Urban Councils Victoria's call to link housing targets with funded infrastructure, supporting development, coordinated planning and financing for 85,450 new homes across five Victorian growth councils.
• Baw Baw Shire seeks community feedback on draft art policies to protect collections, enrich public spaces and support creativity by 13 May 2026
  Baw Baw Shire is seeking community feedback on new draft art policies to protect collections, enhance public spaces, and support creativity, with more than 220 public artworks and 122 civic pieces shaping local culture.
• Melina Bath condemns Allan government’s ‘land grab,’ opposing farmland seizure before environmental approvals complete
  The Allan Labor government passed laws allowing energy companies to compulsory acquire farmland before approvals, prompting Nationals’ Melina Bath to condemn the "land grab" and call for proper consultation and safeguards.
• Bass Coast Council leaders advocating events, infrastructure, recreation, coastal protection, public transport, and environmental conservation
  Bass Coast Council leaders held 12 Parliament meetings, advocating for events, infrastructure, recreation, coastal protection, public transport, and environmental conservation, seeking government support and funding for key community projects.
• Peri Urban Councils Victoria outlines Federal Budget priorities for housing, digital and transport infrastructure growth
  Peri Urban Councils Victoria Chair Moira Berry is available Tuesday 12 May to discuss budget priorities, including housing infrastructure, digital connectivity and transport solutions for fast-growing regional communities.
• Mayor champions twelve election priorities to secure health, roads, housing and investment for East Gippsland communities
  East Gippsland Shire Council is advocating 12 election priorities, including a new Bairnsdale Hospital emergency department, improved roads, housing, emergency services and investment ahead of the 2026 Victorian Election.
• South Gippsland Shire Council seeks feedback on Draft 2026/27 Budget and Long-term Financial Plan until 3 May 2026
  South Gippsland Shire Council’s Draft 2026/27 Budget and Long-Term Financial Plan are open for community feedback until 3 May 2026, shaped by earlier consultation and cost pressures.
• Latrobe City Council reviews community feedback on draft Streetscape Strategy to refine public space improvements and concerns
  Latrobe City Council has concluded community consultation on the draft Streetscape Strategy, reviewing feedback on carpark concerns, public space improvements, and long-term enhancements before finalising recommendations.
• Tim Bull calls on the state government to prioritise commercial fishers in fuel supply efforts amid ongoing shortages
  Tim Bull urges State Government to prioritise fuel access for commercial fishers, highlighting their economic and food production role, while seeking federal excise relief amid rising costs and industry pressures.
• Melina Bath calls on the Allan government to support Traralgon families, participants and staff after Daily Living Disability Services closure
  The Nationals are urging the Allan government to provide immediate support for participants, families, and staff affected by the sudden closure of Daily Living Disability Services in Traralgon.
• Darren Chester calls on Victorian government to prioritise rebuilding Sale College amid safety, ageing infrastructure concerns
  Darren Chester has urged the Victorian government to prioritise a new single-site campus for Sale College, citing deteriorating facilities, safety concerns, and long-standing community frustration.
• Melina Bath urges Allan government to end delays and deliver the long-promised Cape to Cape Plan
  Pressure is growing on the Allan government to end years of delays and release the Cape to Cape Resilience Plan, ensuring urgent coastal protection and reflecting community feedback for Inverloch.
• Peri-Urban Councils warn residents stranded, demand urgent investment in reliable public transport infrastructure
  Peri Urban Councils Victoria warns fast-growing communities face car dependency due to poor public transport, urging government investment in reliable, frequent buses, better timetables, and long-term integrated transport planning.
• Darren Chester slams Albanese government veterans medal review limit, undermining Tribunal independence
  Shadow Minister Darren Chester has condemned Labor's legislation imposing a 20-year limit on veterans' medal reviews, arguing it undermines the Tribunal's independence and disenfranchises veterans and families seeking fair recognition.
• Melina Bath calls for fair share guarantee to deliver regional Victoria its fair infrastructure funding share
  Melina Bath says regional Victoria has long been overlooked, with Eastern communities missing infrastructure funding, and calls for a Fair Share Guarantee ensuring 25 per cent of state investment returns to regional areas.
• Danny O’Brien urged immediate start on Wilsons Promontory revitalisation, including the proposed Yanakie Isthmus fence
  The Allan Labor government faces criticism for ongoing delays to the Wilsons Promontory sanctuary, with Nationals MP Danny O’Brien urging immediate construction to protect wildlife and complete the long-promised project.
• Regional all abilities participation grants is now open to boost inclusive sports opportunities for people with disability in regional communities
  The Allan Labor government's Regional All Abilities Participation Grants offer up to $25,000 for clubs to boost disability inclusion through equipment, training, travel support, and all-abilities sports programs.
• Peri Urban Councils urge state government to invest in infrastructure and support housing growth across regions
  Peri Urban Councils Victoria is urging government investment in infrastructure after a new report recommended 40% of new homes be built in regional Australia, highlighting housing demand, high costs, and infrastructure pressures.
• Call to fast-track National Food Security Strategy amid uncertainty, urging stronger support for farmers, supply chains and critical agricultural inputs
  Calls are growing to fast-track a National Food Security Strategy, linking food and fibre security to national security amid global supply chain risks and input dependencies.
• East Gippsland Council warns pets aren’t presents, urges thoughtful, responsible lifelong commitment this Christmas season
  East Gippsland Council urges residents to avoid gifting pets impulsively this Christmas, emphasizing lifelong commitment, care, and responsibility, suggesting adoption vouchers or sponsorships as thoughtful alternatives.
• Tim Bull calls for State Budget investment in Gippsland East health, police, roads and community infrastructure amid rising debt concerns
  Tim Bull has called for the State Budget to deliver key Gippsland East investments in health, police, fire services, roads, and community infrastructure amid rising Victorian debt.
• Danny O'Brien warns Bayside Health merger threatens Gippsland communities, confirming hidden health service consolidation
  Danny O'Brien criticises Labor's Bayside Health merger, warning it will reduce local hospital autonomy, limit community input, and risk services for Gippsland residents, prioritising bureaucratic cost-saving over patient care.
• Danny O’Brien said poor dental health is tied to cardiovascular disease, diabetes complications and mental health impacts
  Gippslanders now face almost two-year waits for public dental care, with Danny O’Brien blaming a decade of Labor for doubled delays, escalating health risks and under-resourced regional clinics.
• East Gippsland calls for stronger road funding ahead of 2026 Victorian state election commitments
  East Gippsland Shire Council is urging stronger state funding for regional roads, backing a $1.5 billion package to improve safety, freight efficiency, resilience and long-term infrastructure maintenance ahead of the 2026 election.
• Danny O'Brien warns faulty firefighting vehicles are leaving local CFA Brigades under pressure ahead of bushfire season
  Danny O'Brien has criticised the Allan Labor government for failing to repair faulty firefighting vehicles, warning the issue is placing pressure on CFA brigades and reducing Gippsland's preparedness for bushfire season.
• Opposition outlines priorities in Budget-in-Reply speech focusing on economic management and key commitments
  Opposition Budget reply criticises Labor for broken promises, higher costs, energy policy and regional neglect, while outlining alternative plan focused on cheaper energy, infrastructure investment, lower taxes and growth strategy.
• Melina Bath demands Allan government tackle rising Latrobe Valley crime after alleged violent Morwell supermarket carjacking incident
  The Nationals' Melina Bath has called on the Allan government to address rising Latrobe Valley crime, urging stronger policing and tougher laws following an alleged violent carjacking in Morwell.
• Tim Bull claims Environment Minister misled contractors, as DEECA contracts may reduce existing external panel work
  Gippsland East MP Tim Bull accused the Allan Labor Government of cutting fire mitigation work for contractors, misleading them on funding, and failing to maintain promised work volumes across East Gippsland.
• Darren Chester praises landcare volunteers, calls for stronger government support for environmental management across Gippsland
  Darren Chester praised Gippsland Landcare volunteers during Landcare Week, recognising their environmental work while calling for stronger government support, funding and practical land management policies.
• Melina Bath demands Allan government deliver promised 'Youth Crime Prevention Program' for Latrobe Valley
  The Nationals are demanding the Allan government deliver the long-promised Youth Crime Prevention Program in Latrobe Valley, addressing rising youth crime, restoring diversion programs, and supporting at-risk young people effectively.
• Interim report calls for flexible childcare system, improved regional access and supports for families across all service types in Gippsland
  Victoria’s childcare inquiry interim report urges stronger child safety, improved regulation, workforce standards and better regional access across the early childhood education sector.
• Martin Cameron says reduced police numbers and station hours have worsened Latrobe Valley safety under Labor
  Latrobe Valley records highest regional crime rates, with rising offences prompting criticism of Labor and calls for stronger policing and community safety action.
• Wellington students explore aviation careers through industry tour across Sale and Longford facilities on 17 March 2026
  Students from across Wellington Shire have taken a hands-on step into the world of aviation, experiencing firsthand the career opportunities available right on their doorstep through an Aviation Taster Tour hosted by Wellington Shire Council.
• Darren Chester criticised government for lacking program details, calling for clarity on eligibility and farmer access
  Calls intensify for government to release details of interest-free loan scheme and ensure farmers are included amid fuel crisis and rising agricultural cost pressures.
• East Gippsland Shire Council adopts 2026–2029 Domestic Animal Management Plan ensuring pet welfare and safe, enjoyable public spaces for community
  East Gippsland Council adopts Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029, promoting responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, safe public spaces, community consultation, compliance and effective management of dogs and cats across the Shire.
• Darren Chester supports reforming the Coalition to unite Liberals and Nationals and deliver stronger government for Australia
  Darren Chester welcomes the re-formed Coalition, united to hold Labor to account, focus on cost of living, families, regions and security, and develop sensible policies for a safer, stronger, fairer Australia.
• East Gippsland Council clarifies Omeo Justice Precinct Master Plan following community concerns and public consultation feedback
  East Gippsland Shire Council clarified the Omeo Justice Precinct Master Plan does not propose demolishing the Memorial Hall or selling precinct land, with community feedback informing revisions before final adoption.
• East Gippsland celebrates connection, creativity, and community with 2025 month-long Seniors Festival program
  East Gippsland Shire Council presents the 2025 Seniors Festival, offering over 60 free and low-cost events celebrating connection, creativity, wellbeing, and community for older residents throughout October.
• East Gippsland Water expects no summer restrictions, yet climate change makes long-term conservation vital
  East Gippsland Water predicts sufficient rainfall this summer, making restrictions unlikely, but warns climate change and future droughts mean ongoing water conservation remains essential for communities.
• South Gippsland Council ends sharps program June 2026, transitioning service to health providers with NSP locations and public toilet units remaining
  South Gippsland Shire Council will end its Community Sharps Program on 30 June 2026, transitioning services to health providers, with NSP locations available and public toilet sharps units remaining.
• Kickstart your career locally with Bass Coast Shire Council’s 2026 Traineeship Program send applications by 26 January 2026
  Bass Coast Shire Council’s 2026 Traineeship Program offers young people and career returners real-world experience, Certificate III qualifications, flexible work, and pathways to permanent roles across seven diverse disciplines.
• Danny O’Brien says South Gippsland Highway receives constant patch-ups instead of proper, long-term investment
  Danny O’Brien criticises South Gippsland Highway constant patch-ups, highlighting 169 maintenance tasks since July, calling for proper investment and long-term repairs instead of short-term, wasteful fixes by the Labor government.
• East Gippsland Council reminds pet owners to register pets, ensure safety, cleanliness, and enjoyable public spaces for everyone
  East Gippsland Council urges pet owners to register animals, ensuring compliance, quick safe returns, and supporting responsible ownership for cleaner, safer, and more enjoyable community spaces.
• East Gippsland CMA protects Gippsland’s critically endangered Redgum Woodlands and seasonal herbaceous wetlands
  EGCMA and partners are restoring Gippsland’s Critically Endangered Redgum Woodlands and Wetlands, planting native species, improving habitats, and tackling threats across 15 key sites for long-term conservation.
• Melina Bath criticises politicised VEAC, failing land management, while $1.4M could fund bushfire prevention, environmental services
  Melina Bath warns Victorian hunters and anglers against reduced services as Labor pushes VFA-GMA merger, urging proper funding, training, and enforcement to protect compliance, sustainability, and regional outdoor traditions.
• Gippsland Water appoints Sam Muir and Kellie O’Callaghan to the board, bringing experience, diversity and community focus
  Gippsland Water has appointed Sam Muir and Kellie O’Callaghan to its Board, bringing diverse experience, strong community engagement, and fresh perspectives, while outgoing directors Jo Benvenuti and Chris Badger are acknowledged.
• Nationals demand stronger policing as rising Latrobe Valley crime fuels growing community safety concerns and frustration
  The Nationals say rising Latrobe Valley crime and fewer police officers demand urgent Labor government action, calling for stronger policing, tougher laws and better resources to restore community safety.
• Mayor Jodie Ashworth responds to Victorian Budget, welcoming support but seeking stronger long-term investment
  Mayor Jodie Ashworth welcomes parts of the Victorian Budget but says East Gippsland remains underfunded, calling for stronger long-term investment in key regional infrastructure priorities.
• Melina Bath demands action on rising crime following alleged violent Morwell supermarket carjacking incident
  Melina Bath has urged the Allan government to address rising crime after an alleged Morwell carjacking, citing increasing offence rates and calling for more police and tougher laws.
• Dinni Birraark Walk upgrades in Newlands Arm to improve safety, accessibility and environmental protection along foreshore trail works
  East Gippsland Shire Council will upgrade a 372-metre section of the Dinni Birraark Walk, improving safety, accessibility and shoreline stability, with works beginning 15 June alongside Paynesville Landcare Group.
• Bass Coast residents can help shape new policy guiding future naming of council-managed public places
  Bass Coast Shire Council is seeking community feedback on its draft Place Naming Policy, outlining a transparent process for naming public places while recognising local history, Traditional Owners, cultural heritage and commemorating women.