As the Allan Labor Government blindly ploughs ahead with its controversial $200 billion Suburban Rail Loop, MPs from The Nationals have raised questions regarding the lack of investment into regional infrastructure.
In Question Time during the last sitting week of Parliament, Labor was asked (and failed to answer) why regional Victorians receive just over 10 per cent of government infrastructure spend despite being home to 25 per cent of the population.
Shadow Minister for Regional Development, Peter Walsh, said regional Victorians are clearly being ignored, all for a project Premier Jacinta Allan claims is “for all Victorians.”
“We’re still demanding answers as to why regional Victorians receive just over 10 per cent of the Allan Labor Government’s infrastructure spend,” Mr Walsh said.
“Why would the Allan Labor Government leave 25 per cent of Victoria’s population behind – all for the sake of their $200 billion vanity project.
“It’s time for Labor to stop ignoring regional communities and deliver their fair share of investment.”
The Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, said it was irresponsible of Labor to continue funding projects like the Suburban Rail Loop while regional Victorians were being left without crucial services.
“Every Victorian deserves access to quality services – not just those living in Melbourne,” Ms Cleeland said.
“While Labor appears more than happy to waste hundreds of billions on a niche project for a small percentage of the state, regional towns are calling for critical investment so they can have suitable access to services such as childcare, schools, roads, public transport, healthcare, and more.
“It is time this Government remembers that they are responsible for all Victorians, and that includes those of us living in regional areas.
“Labor can’t manage money and regional Victorians are paying the price.”
