Re-elected Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says he will be focused on delivering drought relief for local farmers and has announced a further $60 million to improve the Princes Highway in East Gippsland.
Mr Chester has confirmed the $57.4 million package of new drought assistance measures announced by the Prime Minister at the start of the election campaign, bringing the total the Federal Government is investing in drought support to more than $6.3 billion.
“These initiatives are designed to help Gippsland’s drought-affected farmers and local communities, but, as I’ve said before, there’s still more support required and I will keep working to secure that additional help,” Mr Chester said.
Mr Chester also announced a further $60 million to improve the Princes Highway from Rosedale to the New South Wales border, and $2 million to seal 12 kilometres of the Bonang Road between Goongerah and Bonang.
“By this time next year we will have built six new overtaking lanes along the Princes Highway between Lakes Entrance and the New South Wales border during our time in government and the additional $60 million will be focused on safety with new rest areas and improved streetscapes to encourage visitors to take a break in our towns,” he said.
“I want to stress that this money won’t be used for centreline barriers like the State Government is installing between Sale and Bairnsdale.”
Mr Chester said it was an enormous honour and privilege to be elected to represent Gippsland in Federal Parliament for the fifth time.
“I have never taken Gippslanders for granted and I am extremely grateful for the support of my family, friends, staff and community members who made this win possible,” Mr Chester said.
“Work begins immediately to keep putting locals first and delivering everything we promised during the election campaign.
“I am humbled by the support I received from Gippslanders and the many supportive comments which inspired my team over the past month.
“We have a big job to keep making Gippsland an even better place to live, work and raise a family. By working together with other levels of government and the community, I believe we can make huge progress in the new term of government.
