FEW POSITIVES IN BUDGET FOR GIPPSLAND
May 10, 2012
The Federal Budget has fallen flat for Gippslanders according to The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester.
Mr Chester said Treasurer Wayne Swan had shuffled spending around to create an artificial surplus which had failed to inspire regional communities.
“The Treasurer is saying „trust me?, there will be a surplus but after four massive deficits totalling more than $170 billion, I don?t think many people believe him,” Mr Chester said.
“My big concern is that this year?s Budget demonstrates the Gillard Government has no plans to protect local jobs and the economy or support small businesses in regional communities, in the wake of the carbon tax.
“The carbon tax will add to the household cost of living, make small businesses less viable and impact on the competitiveness of our exporters.
“It?s disappointing that money will be spent on cash handouts rather than several key local projects which would stimulate local employment and the economy.”
Mr Chester said community driven projects such as upgrades at Latrobe Regional Hospital and Bairnsdale Regional Health Service had missed out on major funding.
“There were two health projects of particular need before the Gillard Government as part of its Health and Hospitals Fund Regional Priority Round,” Mr Chester said.
“Unfortunately both projects were unsuccessful in the latest funding round but I will continue to support efforts by the respective boards to attract Government assistance to provide better health outcomes for Gippslanders.”
Mr Chester said $2 million had been allocated to redevelop the Jacaranda House site in Bairnsdale to provide accommodation for student doctors and visiting health specialists working at Bairnsdale Regional Health Service.
He said he would continue to support efforts by Advance TAFE to secure $37 million through the Education Investment Fund for the development of the Port of Sale Education Precinct.
Mr Chester will also be supporting continuing efforts by Latrobe City Council to attract $3 million in Federal Government funding for Latrobe Regional Airport and is promoting a „Putting Locals First? campaign to encourage Gippslanders to support local businesses at every opportunity.