Federation Council has officially released its "Priorities for Farrer" advocacy platform at its April council meeting, calling on all candidates in the upcoming May 9 by-election to commit to the critical needs of the region. With the seat of Farrer vacant following the resignation of the Hon. Sussan Ley, Council is seeking firm commitments to ensure the community remains a strategically significant agricultural, national security, and tourism hub.
The advocacy document outlines nine key priorities, ranging from financial sustainability and national security infrastructure to regional health and digital connectivity.
Federation Council Mayor, Cr Cheryl Cook, emphasized that the by-election presents a unique opportunity for the community to speak with one voice.
"This by-election is a pivotal moment for our residents," she said.
"We are asking every candidate to look closely at what makes Federation Council a powerhouse for the nation - from our $1.1 billion agricultural output to our critical sovereign defense facilities. But we cannot sustain this growth alone. We need a Federal partner who understands that investing in our local infrastructure is an investment in national security and economic stability."
A primary focus of the advocacy is Restoring Local Government Financial Sustainability. Council is calling for Financial Assistance Grants (FAGs) to be increased to at least 1% of Commonwealth Taxation Revenue, a move that would double Council's annual grant from approximately $7.6 million to $15.2 million.
"Our current funding levels have fallen behind significantly since the 1990s, forcing councils to rely more heavily on rate increases to maintain basic infrastructure," Mayor Cook said. "Doubling our FAGs funding would be a game-changer, effectively negating the need for further special rate variations for many years and allowing us to focus on the services our community deserves.".
The "Priorities for Farrer" also highlights urgent infrastructure needs, including:
National Security: Federal funding for a new Lake Mulwala Bridge to support the expansion of the Thales-operated munitions facility.
- Water & Sewerage: $40 million for the Corowa Sewer Treatment Plant and a new Mulwala Water Treatment Plant to support defense workforce housing.
- Health: Advocacy for a greenfield Albury Wodonga Hospital and capital grants to attract doctors and nurses to regional hospitals in Corowa and Urana.
- Flood Mitigation: Directing the MDBA to install additional gates at the Yarrawonga Weir to protect properties in Mulwala from designated 1% flood risks.
"Whether it's ensuring our residents can get affordable insurance through better flood management, or building a world-class hospital that grows with our region, these aren't just 'local' issues - they are essential for the long-term viability of regional NSW," Mayor Cook said.
"We look forward to meeting with the successful candidate to secure the future of the Federation Council area following the upcoming election."
View the full "Priorities for Farrer" Advocacy Statement(PDF, 379KB).
