BALLARAT’S Federal MP Catherine King wants the region to get some of a near $8 billion in infrastructure money which is expected to flow into Victoria from tonight’s federal budget announcement.
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A range of council listed projects such as the development of an emergency services hub at the Ballarat Aerodrome and the critical repairs to Her Majesty’s Theatre are among the top projects she wants to see funded.
The $7.8 billion package headed to Victoria is expected to include the $5 billion already promised for heavy rail to Melbourne Airport.
“The Turnbull Government must finally begin committing investment funds for this region to support the strong growth which is occurring,” Ms King said.
“(They need) to back-up the important work already well underway through the initiatives of the Andrews State Government.
The list of infrastructure improvements that Ms King wants to see funded also includes; Stage two of the Ballarat West Link Road; Waste to Energy projects which are being pursued by the City of Ballarat and Hepburn Shire; The Parwan Employment Precinct in Moorabool and; A Bacchus Marsh Regional Community Sports Hub.
The City of Ballarat is actively pursuing both state and federal governments for the $80 million required to construct Stage two of Ballarat Link Road and to duplicate Stage one.
Mayor Samantha McIntosh said she was encouraged by what Ms King had put on the table saying they were united in their views.
“These are significant projects that are change makers for our city,” Ms McIntosh said.
“These will make an enormous difference to our community and will also add connectivity to the regions.”
Ms King has also called for more support for regional universities and TAFE.
“Last year’s budget also cut a further $636 million from TAFE training and apprenticeships,” she said.
“The Government has a chance to reverse these decisions and give more tertiary opportunities to our regional students.”
Committee for Ballarat chief executive Melanie Robertson has placed electrification of the train line between Sunshine and Melton at the top of the Ballarat budget wish list.
“Infrastructure Australia have highlighted that as a critical initiative and it’s the only one in Victoria completely outside of metropolitan Melbourne,” Ms Robertson said.
The boss of the city’s peak lobby group also highlighted the need for $11 milion to construct the Ballarat Renewable Energy Training Centre as well as cash to plan for a third Victorian electricity interconnector.
