Member for Mallee Dr Anne Webster said there should be consequences after revelations the Bureau of Meteorology’s (BOM) unpopular new website cost millions of dollars more than previously thought, with the actual cost at $96 million. Dr Webster said the sheer waste of money requires a review. “It is unbelievable a private consultancy was paid…
DetailsThe Albanese Government has been forced to withdraw legislation that would undermine the integrity of the defence honours and awards appeals system after failing to consult with veterans and Australian Defence Force personnel. Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said the government should abandon the mean-spirited Bill completely after the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence…
DetailsThis week marks 12 months to go until Victorians have a clear choice – a choice between a Labor government that ignores regional Victorians, or a government with The Nationals who will always fight for our fair share. A Labor Government that only invests 12 per cent of its infrastructure spend in regional Victoria.…
DetailsFederal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is urging eligible young athletes across the region to apply for Round Three of the 2025–26 Local Sporting Champions grant program, which provides financial support to help junior sportspeople compete at elite levels. Mr Chester said the program plays an important role in helping Gippsland’s emerging athletes pursue their goals…
DetailsFederal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has paid tribute to the region’s farmers, producers and agricultural workers as part of National Agriculture Day, recognising their vital role in sustaining local communities and contributing to Australia’s food security. Mr Chester said agriculture remained fundamental to Gippsland’s identity, economy and way of life, with the region renowned…
DetailsThe State Emergency Service has suffered a $10 million funding cut under the Allan Labor Government at a time when demand and community need are all rising. The VICSES 2024–25 Annual Report, tabled in Parliament, shows that VICSES is now operating with reduced resources despite recording one of its busiest years on record for some…
DetailsGippsland farmers are facing devastating losses as wild dog attacks escalate, threatening livestock, family pets and even community safety. The Nationals are urging the Allan Labor Government to urgently allocate additional resources to Victoria’s wild dog control program. Speaking in state parliament, The Nationals’ Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath said one East Gippsland farmer…
DetailsThe Nationals’ Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron, has sought an assurance from the Allan Labor Government that its plans to redeploy Protective Services Officers (PSOs) to major retail precincts will not result in the removal of PSOs from Traralgon. PSOs have a dedicated presence at 216 train stations in Melbourne, yet just four stations in the whole…
DetailsThe Nationals’ Melina Bath is shining a light on Victorian farmers during National Agriculture Week. National Agriculture Day 2025 is celebrated on Friday, 21 November with this year’s theme: “Stand with the Land.” Ms Bath said growing up on a dairy farm taught her that each sunrise means constant work, resilience and respect for the…
DetailsFederal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has announced the winners of his 2026 #lovegippsland calendar competition, following another outstanding collection of photographs showcasing the beauty of the region. This year’s theme, ‘Iconic Gippsland’, challenged entrants to capture the essence of the region — from rugged coastlines and mountain peaks to vibrant country towns and tranquil…
DetailsFrustration continues to build across regional Victoria as the Allan Labor Government pushes ahead with its Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) plans, dismissing the concerns of those who live and work in the areas most affected. The Nationals’ Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy, said the Minister for Energy and Resources’ recent response to landholder feedback has…
DetailsThe Allan Labor Government has once again shown its complete disregard for rural and regional communities, with its roads minister seemingly in denial about the state of the Western Highway. The Nationals’ Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy, has made countless representations to the government regarding safety concerns with the highway, including community requests to lower…
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