BUILDING A BUDGET THAT BENEFITS GIPPSLAND

One Gippsland has identified a number of shovel-ready projects ripe for government investment, with the potential to deliver game-changing returns across the region.

With planning for the Federal and State Budgets now in full swing, One Gippsland has submitted its key funding priorities to both the Australian and Victorian Governments for consideration in the 2023 budget development process.

East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor and Chair of One Gippsland Cr Mark Reeves said, “We are keen to work with both levels of government to deliver a more prosperous Gippsland and help us on our way to becoming one of the most liveable regions in Australia.”

A comprehensive list of regional shovel-ready projects is available here.

“Gippsland is one of the fastest growing areas in the State with our population expected to grow by 26 per cent by 2036, so it’s important that we plan ahead and invest in the right infrastructure for our region’s future” Cr Reeves explained.

The One Gippsland Pre-budget Submission 2023-24 also identifies seven key investment areas that are critical to the economic development and recovery of the region. These are:

●        Freight Fast-track: Network investment, planning and road safety;

●        Tourism Recovery: Tracks and trails and events;

●        Digital Connectivity: Mobile and broadband networks;

●        Education: Building the skills for the future;

●        Rail: Improving reliability, speed and accessibility;

●        Health and Wellbeing: Meeting the varied needs of the region; and

●        Food and Fibre: Capitalising on the region’s strengths.

“People are flocking to Gippsland for the great lifestyle it offers but we need to make sure we can back that up with other important factors such as an efficient transport network, career growth and critical health services” Cr Reeves explained.