Gippsland › Latest news › One Gippsland
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.
One Gippsland has welcomed the release of the 2022-23 Victorian state budget, which includes a range of important initiatives to help Gippsland prosper and grow. One Gippsland Chair and Mayor of Latrobe City Council Cr Kellie O'Callaghan said the budget was an important part of the recovery of the Gippsland region after the past two years of fires, floods and COVID-19.
After enduring substantial economic challenges throughout recent years, major industry closures, economic investment to aid recovery is crucial
Key commitments for Gippsland
Cr O'Callaghan stated, "The new funding for tourism and major events allocated in this budget is warmly welcomed, as our region continues to recover from the significant downturn caused by the global pandemic." As a peak advocacy body for the region, One Gippsland has called for increased funding for regional roads, tourism recovery, digital connectivity and job creation. Key commitments for Gippsland include:
- $101 million in state regional road upgrades including funding
- Bass Highway, Kilcunda, infrastructure improvements
- Strzelecki Highway between Morwell and Mirboo North overtaking lane
- Princes Highway at Lookout Road, Kalimna, intersection improvements
- Princes Highway and Bairnsdale-Dargo Road, Bairnsdale, intersection improvements
- Funding to develop the Croajingolong Coastal Wilderness Walk
- $1 million to continue establishment of the Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park including improved visitor facilities and linkages between existing parks and reserves
Development also includes:
- $31 million to facilitate stabling of VLocity trains at Bairnsdale station to improve reliability on the Gippsland rail line
- $57 million to implement the Sustainable Water Strategy for Central and Gippsland regions
- $17 million to protect and preserve our coastal environment from erosion and flood risks
- $4.5 million to protect and improve lighthouses including at Point Hicks and Wilsons Promontory
- $6.5 million for a new emergency department mental health and alcohol hub at Latrobe Regional Hospital
- Upgrades to Yinnar Primary School, Bass Coast Specialist School, East Gippsland Specialist School, South Gippsland Specialist School, Warragul & District Specialist School
Cr O'Callaghan said, "We're particularly pleased to see that the government has recognised the strategic importance of our tourism industry, with new funding to develop the Croajingolong Coastal Wilderness Walk and improve visitor facilities at the Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park."
"We also welcome the increased investment in community infrastructure in preparation for the Commonwealth Games. We look forward to seeing some additional commitments for the Gippsland region as we head into the election campaign later in the year," said Cr O'Callaghan.
Pictures from One Gippsland website.
Source: http://gippsland.com/
Published by: news@gippsland.com
Latest News
Cann River fire damages three commercial properties and burns popular Squires Cafe to groundCommunity feedback wanted for the Wellington Shire Draft Budget 2024/25 by 29 May 2024
Appreciation to Bairnsdale volunteers for their support during Gippsland Rotary Centenary House fundraiser extended by Darren Chester
Baw Baw residents will get new purple-lidded glass bins collected separately every four weeks to better recycling process from October 2024
Exhibition by artist Matthew Bagley is captivating journey into ocean conservation at Berninneit Art Gallery
Outward Bound Australia praised by Darren Chester for their effort to revitalise Gippsland outdoor education
Penny Glover from Guthridge Primary School presented with John Printz OAM Award in front of a huge crowd at Sale Memorial Hall
Upgrades to Kalimna Hill trail in Lakes Entrance prioritises safety and accessibility for walker
Baw Baw Shire Council funds 28 community groups total of $105,303 from Community Grants Program
Free Masterclass sessions to promote safe and sustainable community events in Lakes Entrance and Bairnsdale over May 2024