East Gippsland Shire Council is calling on all parties and candidates contesting the Victorian Election to commit funding for critical infrastructure projects that will unlock thousands of new homes while supporting safe and sustainable growth.
Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said regional housing growth depended on delivering essential infrastructure alongside new development.
"East Gippsland has opportunities to deliver more homes, but we need the infrastructure in place to make that growth possible," Cr Ashworth said.
Council is seeking investment for projects in Paynesville, Lakes Entrance and Lucknow.
In Paynesville, $4 million is sought for intersection upgrades to support around 1,400 planned new homes in the town's growth area. The works include upgrades to the Paynesville Road and Grandview Road intersection, and improvements to Main Street intersections.
"These intersections are already under pressure, and investment now will ensure the road network keeps pace with growth and supports Paynesville as a great place to live," Cr Ashworth said.
In Lakes Entrance, Council is seeking $4 million for drainage upgrades to reduce flood risk, protect homes and businesses, and support the staged development of the Northern Growth Area, which includes around 1,500 residential lots.
"This is about protecting what we have while preparing for the future. Better drainage will improve flood resilience, support housing supply and help protect the Gippsland Lakes," Cr Ashworth said.
In Lucknow, $4 million is sought for drainage infrastructure to enable development in the Lanes Road precinct, unlocking the potential for 600 new homes.
"These projects will remove barriers to housing, support local jobs and help our communities thrive," Cr Ashworth said.
The projects form part of Council's broader Victorian Election advocacy package, which seeks investment in roads, health, housing, flood resilience, sporting facilities, emergency services, forestry transition, public land management and reform of the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund levy. More advocacy package details can be found at eastgippsland.vic.gov.au/council/advocacy
