As the State Budget approaches, The Nationals Member for Shepparton District Kim O’Keeffe is calling for the government to address the cost of living, the housing crisis, healthcare facilities, road maintenance, and broader infrastructure enhancements.
“We are experiencing a housing crisis with over 2239 on the social housing waitlist alone, and that figure continues to grow. We need a commitment to address our current housing crisis,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
“The recent announcement of increased land tax does not help our situation.”
As rent costs surge due to economic pressures, many are struggling to keep a roof over their heads. Without government support to manage living costs, more individuals could be forced into homelessness as landlords pass these tax hikes onto tenants.
“It is so important that measures to ease the cost of living are introduced to prevent this potential spike in homelessness,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
Ms O’Keeffe is also calling for Stage Two of GV Health, which will see the completion of the hospital redevelopment.
“Our hospital is incomplete, and this is a matter of urgency. The government must fulfill its commitment and provide the people in my electorate with the healthcare facilities and services they urgently need,” she said.
“Our health services also need a funding boost. They should not be asked to cut back and make savings. How can you cut millions from local health and hospital budgets without impacting frontline services or enforcing job losses?”
Since 2020, the budget for road maintenance has been cut by 45%.
“The Treasurer needs to reinstate this funding. The poor condition of the roads is a clear indication of the significant reduction in maintenance. Crumbling unsafe roads must be addressed.”
With Regional Victoria making up 25% of the state’s population, Ms O’Keeffe has called for 25% of capital funding to be spent on initiatives and projects outside Melbourne.
“We deserve to have fit-for-purpose facilities, including a new sports stadium that we have been lobbying for over many years,” she said.
Ms O’Keeffe also raised concerns about expected funding cuts across the board.
“We need critical investment into infrastructure, services and community organisations to ensure the region’s long-term prosperity,” she said.
“It is expected to be a horror budget due to this government’s financial mismanagement, and Victorians are paying the price.”
The state debt is higher than New South Wales, Queensland, and Tasmania combined, and the interest alone is costing Victorians over $15 million every single day.
“That money should have been spent on housing, hospitals, roads or a new sports stadium,” Ms O’Keeffe said.