Developers in the Mitchell Shire have met with local MPs in Kilmore to discuss ongoing infrastructure and planning challenges they are facing locally.
The developers were joined by The Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, and Shadow Minister for Home Ownership and Housing Affordability, Evan Mulholland, for the meeting.
Ms Cleeland said that developers raised frustrations over the current situation locally, with red tape preventing crucial infrastructure projects from getting off the ground in towns like Kilmore and Broadford.
“Having spoken with local developers, it is clear that not enough is being done to support the growth of this region when it comes to infrastructure improvements,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Private businesses have been faced with several roadblocks when it comes to developing the region, including difficulties obtaining planning permits, land tax and GAIC burdens, and a general lack of forward thinking from government.
“With towns like Kilmore and Broadford being left behind on so many government-led infrastructure projects, it is so important that private businesses are not driven out of these growth regions.
“Instead of rolling out the red carpet for those looking to improve our region, this Government has stuck them behind layers of red tape.”
With the Mitchell Shire being one of the largest growth areas in the entire state, Mr Mulholland said it was essential that investment into infrastructure matched this growth.
“Victoria’s growth suburbs desperately need the infrastructure and services that their established counterparts already have, particularly when it comes to developments for housing, roads, and schools, Ms Cleeland said.
“With the local population expected to grow by over 250 per cent between now and 2041, it is crucial that this area has the infrastructure to support it.
“This is yet another casualty of Labor’s inability to manage money. Locals in growth suburbs are paying the price for Labor’s mismanagement of the budget.”
