“The Victorian Budget 2022-23 is firmly placing support for the health system and education outcomes of the community at the forefront along with an agenda of budget repair.
“The Committee for Geelong encourages the Victorian Government’s commitment to reducing debt and deficit with a forecast to return to surplus in 2025-26. We are also pleased with the significant investment into Geelong’s health system including the increased funding to the new Women’s and Children’s Hospital, the $2.5 Billion to start planning and building for the Commonwealth Games including a hub for Geelong, and a range of initiatives to support outcomes for women and continue with the Treaty process.
“However, we are disappointed that there was no funding to start planning a much needed new and fit for purpose public transport network, only $2.3M for works related to Revitalising Central Geelong, no funds for activities related to the Central Geelong Framework Plan, the You Yang cultural tourism precinct project, the proposed Geelong Gallery redevelopment, nor for the state-wide regional community leadership programs including the Leaders for Geelong program in 2023.
“We are very conscious that we are in a State Election year and are committed to continuing dialogue with the Government and Opposition as we seek significant commitments for our fast-growing region. This dialogue will start tomorrow as the Committee for Geelong hosts the Assistant Treasurer Danny Pearson and Member for Geelong Christine Couzens in a post Budget briefing for members.”
MEDIA STATEMENT
Tuesday 3 May 2022
CEO, Committee for Geelong
Jennifer Cromarty
Image Credit: SBS