Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says all levels of government need to work together to deliver the funding for projects and critical services the Latrobe Valley needs during a period of significant changes.
Mr Chester, who is also the Shadow Minister for Local Government, met with Latrobe City Mayor Kellie O’Callaghan to discuss Council’s priorities in the lead up to the Federal Budget.
“As a local MP I meet regularly with Councils across Gippsland to discuss ways we can work together to secure funding for local priority projects and just get stuff done across our region,” Mr Chester said.
“It’s particularly important in the Latrobe Valley right now as there are a lot of moving parts with the transition in the energy sector and State Government policies impacting jobs in the timber industry.
“So it was good to catch up with the Mayor before Federal Parliament resumes next week to discuss the Latrobe City’s pre-budget submission and progress on a range of local projects.
“We are both on the same page, all levels of government need to be listening to our community and working positively and constructively to deliver practical projects and critical services that support long-term and sustainable job opportunities in the Latrobe Valley.
“There are projects like the Traralgon by-pass, infrastructure flood resilience, new affordable housing, improved health and education precincts, and high-tech industry opportunities that require a level of government investment to bring to fruition.
“Over the past few years we’ve been very successful in landing money for big projects like the performing arts centre, sports facilities and transport infrastructure but there’s always more to be done.
“Rest assured I will keep working with local communities to ensure our voices are heard at the highest levels of state and federal governments in the months and years ahead.”
