State Budget supports projects, ups levies, misses on roads

East Gippsland Shire Council has welcomed funding for facilities that benefit young people and families in the 2024 State Budget. However, the good news is tempered by increases in a range of levies and taxes, and an underinvestment in regional priorities including road maintenance and natural area management.

Mayor Cr Tom Crook said Council was still digging into the details of the State Budget, handed down on Tuesday, and how it will support East Gippsland communities in the longer term.

“As with developing our own draft budget – currently out for community feedback – we understand the Government’s attempts to be more fiscally disciplined. We are keen to understand the details of the budget and how that translates to on-the-ground, direct support and initiatives for East Gippsland,” Cr Crook said.

Highlights for the region:

• Paynesville Primary School - $4.4 million to modernise the school
• Paynesville Bowls Club - $330,000 for a new synthetic green
• Hoddinott Reserve, East Bairnsdale - $300,000 to upgrade the playground
• Lakes Entrance - $4.5m to upgrade the training walls
• Lake Tyers Aboriginal Trust - a share of $13m for essential services and infrastructure upgrades

“These investments are good news for residents and families in Paynesville and East Bairnsdale, and some are for projects and investment Council has long advocated for. Improving facilities for people of all ages will encourage families to stay in, or move into, our region,” Cr Crook said.

Read the media release:

Mayor Tom Crook and Tom McIntosh MP celebrate a $300,000 investment in Hoddinott Reserve, East Bairnsdale, this week with East Gippsland Community Hub’s Lisa Lightowler and Nellie Hameeteman, and community members.