The Liberals and Nationals have today committed to saving a world class advice service for Victorian families that has been cruelly cut by the Allan Labor Government.
Parentline is available from 8am to midnight, seven days a week and provides a range of supports to families, including counselling and emotional support, practical parenting advice, information and referrals to other relevant services and critical support for families in crisis, as well as those from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
The service costs $1.3 million a year to run - approximately the same amount as the expected hourly interest bill on Labor's record debt by 2028-29.
Opposition Leader, Brad Battin, said cutting funding to Parentline is not about government saving money, it is about wrong priorities.
"This decision is one by a government that has lost its way. It is inexcusable to leave Victorian families without a trusted, proven source of support. This could only happen in Jacinta Allan's Victoria.
"It is a no brainer that Parentline should continue to be funded and a Liberal and Nationals Government will ensure that happens.
"This is a modest investment with a big impact - it's about government getting its priorities right," Mr Battin said.
Shadow Minister for Education, Jess Wilson, said: "Services like Parentline provide the accessible and practical support that can make a world of difference to families in need.
"Cutting such a low-cost, yet vital service for families while pressing ahead with a 'things cost what they cost' attitude to major projects demonstrates how Labor's priorities are all wrong.
"Only a Liberals and Nationals Government will prioritise the wellbeing of parents and families and restore Parentline."
Member for North Eastern Metropolitan Region, Nick McGowan, said: "A local mum and former worker at Parentline recently brought the financial plight of the service to my attention. I'm glad I have been able to achieve the funding commitment announced today because it will support parents and their children."
