The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien says a new plan for regional Victoria will deliver better roads, stronger local services and cost-of-living relief for Gippslanders.
Mr O’Brien said the centrepiece of The Nationals plan was the Fair Share Guarantee, which would ensure at least 25 per cent of all new Victorian Government infrastructure investment was spent in regional Victoria.
“Regional Victorians make up 25 per cent of the state’s population but currently receive less than 12 per cent of infrastructure funding,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Our guarantee will mean more investment in the roads, hospitals, schools and services Gippslanders rely on.”
The plan includes $5 billion to repair and rebuild Victoria’s roads, eliminate one million potholes and restore preventative maintenance.
Rural and regional councils, including South Gippsland, Wellington and Latrobe would also receive $1.5 million annually for four years to repair local roads and bridges.
“For Gippslanders, this means fixing roads properly and investing in routes such as the Princes and South Gippsland highways, rather than continually applying patches that quickly fail.”
Mr O’Brien said the plan would also improve access to healthcare by upgrading regional health facilities, attracting more health professionals and abolishing Labor’s GP tax.
Cost-of-living measures include scrapping Labor’s Emergency Services Tax and Schools Tax, abolishing stamp duty for first home buyers purchasing properties worth up to $1 million and providing free meningococcal B vaccinations for children and teenagers.
“We will also protect Gippsland’s productive farmland from poorly planned energy developments and give landholders a genuine voice in decisions affecting their properties.
“This is a practical plan focused on the issues Gippslanders raise with me every day.
“Gippslanders work hard and contribute enormously to our state. It is time they received their fair share.”
Mr O’Brien said those wanting to view The Nationals’ plan for Regional Victoria can do so online at vic.nationals.org.au.
Caption: The Nationals Member for Gippsland South and Leader of The Nationals, Danny O’Brien says The Nationals’ plan for Regional Victoria will deliver better roads, stronger local services and cost-of-living relief for Gippslanders.
