The Liberals and Nationals will work with Melbourne Royal to support the future of the Melbourne Royal Show, including a $1.5 million investment towards a new master plan for the Showgrounds.
For more than 175 years, the Melbourne Royal Show has brought the country to the city, giving generations of Victorian children the chance to get close to farm animals, meet producers and understand where their food and fibre comes from.
Melbourne Royal needs greater certainty around its arrangements at the Showgrounds to plan for the future.
A Liberal and Nationals Government will sit down with Melbourne Royal at the negotiating table, in good faith, within 12 months of coming to office to work together to resolve these issues.
The $1.5 million investment will support a new master plan for the Showgrounds and help identify opportunities for the future of the precinct.
The aim is to give Melbourne Royal the certainty it needs to invest, grow and continue showcasing the best of Victorian agriculture.
Shadow Minister for Agriculture and Deputy Leader of The Nationals, Emma Kealy, said the Melbourne Royal Show was far more than showbags, rides and fireworks.
“The Melbourne Royal Show is where the city meets the country and is an iconic part of the Victorian calendar,” Ms Kealy said.
“It’s where a child from Melbourne can pat a calf, watch a sheep being shorn and talk to the farmers who produce the food on their dinner table.
“We hear you when you say the future of the Melbourne Royal Show is under threat. That is not something I want to see happen.
“We want to work constructively with Melbourne Royal to understand the challenges it faces and find a way forward.
“The Melbourne Royal Show has been an iconic event in Victoria’s calendar for decades, and it must continue to serve that role for decades more.
“The Melbourne Royal Show belongs to all Victorians, city and country, and the Liberals and Nationals will ensure the Show will go on for generations to come.”
