Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has met with a One Gippsland delegation at Parliament House to discuss the infrastructure, services and investment needed to support the region’s future growth.
The delegation, led by One Gippsland Chair and South Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Nathan Hersey, raised priorities including better roads and freight connections, housing and liveability, health services, disaster resilience, and opportunities across the food and fibre, tourism and new energy sectors.
Mr Chester said a united regional approach was important to ensuring Gippsland’s priorities were heard by decision-makers in Canberra.
“One Gippsland brings together local government and industry voices from across our region, and it was valuable to discuss the practical investments and policy decisions needed to support Gippsland’s future,” Mr Chester said.
“Better transport connections, access to housing and health services, stronger disaster resilience and opportunities to grow our traditional and emerging industries all have a direct impact on the strength of our communities.
“These are the investments that help attract private sector investment, create local jobs and give young Gippslanders more reasons to build their future in our region.”
Mr Chester said Gippsland had significant opportunities across established industries such as agriculture and tourism, while new industries could provide additional investment and employment if regional communities were properly supported.
“Regional communities need reliable infrastructure and services if we are going to capitalise on the opportunities ahead of us,” Mr Chester said.
“It’s always valuable to have a united regional voice in Canberra, and I appreciate the work One Gippsland is doing to bring councils, industry and community leaders together around a shared set of priorities.
“I look forward to continuing to work with One Gippsland to advocate for practical outcomes that strengthen our communities and support the long-term prosperity of our region.”
Pictured: Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester, South Gippsland Shire Council Mayor and One Gippsland Chair Cr Nathan Hersey, South Gippsland Shire Council CEO Ms Allison Jones, Food & Fibre Gippsland CEO Mr Simon Johnson, Baw Baw Shire Council Mayor Cr Kate Wilson, Baw Baw Shire Council CEO Ms Tilla Buden.
