Latrobe City Council has welcomed continued funding for key programs to support roads and local infrastructure as part of the 2022/23 Federal Budget.
"Key programs such as the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program and the Building Better Regions Fund have consistently delivered great outcomes for Latrobe City and the wider Gippsland region," said Mayor of Latrobe City Cr Kellie O'Callaghan.
"It's also encouraging to see investment in skills and training, modern manufacturing, recycling and regional jobs creation.
"While we acknowledge the Federal Government is facing the pressures of COVID-19 management and disaster recovery, we will continue to advocate for support for the projects our community are calling for."
Council's Federal Budget submission called for investment across five key projects, including flood recovery support, stage three of the Moe Revitalisation Project, a new runway for Latrobe Regional Airport and funding for the establishment of the Gippsland Logistics Precinct and the Gippsland Material Recovery Facility.
Council also acknowledged new measures to tackle the cost of living pressures, including tax offsets for low-and middle-income earners, bonus payments and cuts to the fuel excise.
"We know that people have felt the squeeze of rising fuel and food costs and high property prices, which is at the detriment to the overall health and wellbeing of our community. These measures, although small, will provide some short-term relief," said Cr O'Callaghan.
With the budget released, Council will now turn its advocacy efforts towards the upcoming Federal Election, seeking support to develop new industries for Latrobe City.
"We're continuing to deliver our Strength Led Transition strategy, guided by our community's needs and aspirations. Job creation is at the heart of these initiatives, creating long-term employment opportunities for current and future generations in Latrobe City.
"Economic diversification across a range of industries, including material recovery, energy, transport, health and education is a crucial part of this," said Cr O'Callaghan.
