Latrobe City Council is calling on Premier Ben Carroll to ensure Latrobe City is selected as one of the three regional locations chosen as part of the Victorian Government's proposed network of 10 free dental clinics.
Latrobe City Council Mayor, Councillor Sharon Gibson, welcomed the focus on improving access to healthcare and reducing cost-of-living pressures but said regional communities must be included from the outset.
"Access to affordable healthcare remains a challenge for many people in regional Victoria, and any investment that helps ease pressure on families is welcome," Cr Gibson said.
"The proposed network of 10 free dental clinics, including three regional locations, has the potential to make a real difference for people who are delaying or going without essential dental care because of cost.
"People living in Latrobe City deserve the same access to essential health services as those living in metropolitan Melbourne.
"We are fortunate to have programs like 'Smiles for Miles' supporting children's oral health, but there remains a significant gap for people who are no longer at school and may struggle to access affordable dental care.
"A free dental clinic in Latrobe City would help ensure that cost is not a barrier to maintaining good oral health throughout a person's life."
Cr Gibson said Latrobe City was a key service centre for Gippsland and already played an important role in supporting healthcare delivery across the region.
"If the Victorian Government is serious about improving health outcomes and delivering cost-of-living relief, regional centres such as Latrobe City must be included in the rollout of new services and infrastructure," she said.
Cr Gibson said the upcoming State Election provided an opportunity to advocate for the projects and services needed to support the region's future.
"As our community continues its transition to a more diverse economy, and we need ongoing investment in healthcare, roads, community infrastructure, education, jobs and economic development," Cr Gibson said.
Cr Gibson said Council looked forward to
working constructively with all parties and candidates in the lead up to the state election.
"Latrobe City stands ready to work with all levels of government to deliver the services, infrastructure and opportunities our growing community needs," she said.
"We urge all political parties to commit to a fair share of major election investments for regional communities."
