The fire season is already upon us and too many Victorians are understandably uneasy in how unprepared our state has become. 350 Forest Fire Management Victoria trucks are still offline, with no clear explanation from the Allan Labor Government on when they’ll be back in service. Worryingly, Victoria is borrowing old, decommissioned trucks…
DetailsVictoria has entered one of its most dangerous fire seasons in years, yet a new report has revealed serious and ongoing staffing shortfalls in the Country Fire Authority. The Fire Services Implementation Monitor’s 2024–25 Annual Report, tabled in Parliament, makes clear that chronic vacancies and insufficient relief are now entrenched across key operational roles…
DetailsFederal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says employees at a Yarram sawmill are owed an explanation from senior management after losing their jobs without warning. Mr Chester said the loss of more than 70 direct jobs was devastating for the community, with the flow-on impact likely to result in economic hardship for dozens of families.…
DetailsThe Nationals congratulate Jess Wilson on becoming the Leader of the Opposition. We look forward to working with Jess, who has already demonstrated a deep commitment to improving the lives of Victorians with her sharp mind, a great grasp of policy, and commitment to holding the Allan Labor Government to account. I look…
DetailsMallacoota residents requiring respite care can now access high-quality support close to home with the opening of the new purpose-built Mallacoota Respite Care Centre, delivered by Mallacoota District Health and Support Service (MDHSS). The facility has been designed to help residents returning from hospital after surgery or undergoing treatment recover in a safe, home-like environment,…
DetailsThe Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien says this morning’s sudden announcement that AKD’s Yarram timber mill will close immediately costing 73 local people their jobs is a devastating blow. Mr O’Brien said the announcement was a shock and massive hit for Yarram and the surrounding district. “Seventy-three jobs lost in a town the…
DetailsMember for Mallee Dr Anne Webster said the Coalition’s joint agreement to drop net zero will help Mallee households and businesses achieve cheaper, better and fairer energy and a way to lower emissions. Dr Webster said she was pleased the Coalition had reached a principled position, working together in a pragmatic, consultative and respectful way…
DetailsFederal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is encouraging Gippslanders to support local businesses this Christmas and help to create more jobs across the region. Mr Chester says putting locals first is the best Christmas gift because there are so many outstanding products that are made in Gippsland. Highlighting one example of local success, Mr Chester…
DetailsGreater Western Water customers remain caught in Labor’s ongoing billing fiasco. Since Greater Western Water’s $100 million IT upgrade in May last year, customers have been hit with incorrect charges, bills sent to old addresses, or no bills at all — only to now face large, unexpected debts. Shadow Minister for Water, Tim McCurdy, said…
DetailsToday’s total fire ban in the Mallee is a stark reminder that the fire season isn’t coming — it’s here, and Premier Allan has already declared it “one of the most dangerous in years.” Yet 350 Forest Fire Management Victoria appliances remain offline due to a fault, and Minister for Environment, Steve Dimopoulos, in Parliament…
DetailsWork is progressing well to improve safety for motorists and pedestrians on the western approach to Lakes Entrance with a new pathway set to be popular with locals and visitors. Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester (pictured) secured the majority of the $2 million funding from the previous Federal Government and says work should be…
DetailsThe major upgrade to the Mallacoota streetscape is looking great for the Christmas holiday rush, according to local MP Darren Chester (pictured). Mr Chester secured funding from the previous Federal Government for the Mallacoota streetscape project, which has been officially opened. “The project has delivered safety upgrades for pedestrians and improved drainage, as well as…
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