Gippsland investment continues

Last week’s State budget has been described by Upper House Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing as one that continues the government’s record investment in Gippsland’s future.

She highlighted rebuilding of more schools, the biggest funding boost for the local rail network for generations, expanded and upgraded health services, more police and initiatives to drive employment growth and to break the cycle of family violence.

Specific projects to be funded in the region include:Upgrade of the Gippsland rail line costing $435 million and including duplication of the track between Longwarry and Bunyip and construction of second platforms at both stations.

Major roadworks on the South Gippsland highway including at Koonwarra and between Yarram and Meeniyan, and on Princes Highway East.

Establishment of a government office in the Latrobe Valley that will employ 150 people.

A Support and Safety Hub for families suffering domestic violence to be built in Gippsland.

A new residential drug treatment facility in the region.

$110 million on new timber plantations to ensure sustainability of forestry.

A $226 million Latrobe Valley support package to help workers and businesses affected by the closure of the Hazelwood power station.

Premier Daniel Andrews said Gippsland would also benefit from a number of other measures included in the budget.

Regional businesses will have payroll tax reduced by 25 per cent and increase in the tax-free threshold.

The first home buyers grant doubles to $20,000 in regional areas, and the government says it is boosting assistance for hospitals, kindergartens, schools, sporting facilities and tourism and reducing the impact of bushfires on communities.