Monaro is seeing unprecedented investment with the 2021-22 NSW State Budget delivering record funding for a number of key projects across the region.
NSW Nationals Member for Monaro John Barilaro said the 2021-21 NSW Budget ensures the region emerges stronger as it continues its recovery from the challenges of the past few years.
“This is the most impressive budget I’ve seen in my ten years as Member for Monaro, with significant investment in education, roads, healthcare and infrastructure,” Mr Barilaro said.
SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT IN ROADS AND TRANSPORT
Mr Barilaro said today’s budget cements the NSW Nationals in the state government’s commitment to improve key roads across the region, ensuring everyone can travel safely from A to B.
“I’m excited to share that today’s budget includes a massive $20 million to continue the major upgrades of both the Monaro and Kings Highway, key thoroughfares in the electorate,” Mr Barilaro said.
“In addition to this, $19.8 million has been allocated to improve Bobeyan Road, Dunns Creek Road and Captains Flat Road.
“This investment will ensure a safer journey for all road users, improve our region’s productivity and create jobs at a time when they’re needed most.”
SNOWY MOUNTAINS SPECIAL ACTIVATION PRECINCT
The Snowy Mountains is on track to become the Aspen of the Southern Hemisphere with today’s budget allocating significant funding to deliver a number of Special Activation Precincts (SAPs) across the state.
Mr Barilaro said $50 million has been secured to deliver the Williamtown, Moree and Snowy Mountains SAP for this year alone.
“The Snowy Mountains SAP is a bold, 40-year vision for the region. It will create jobs, attract businesses and investors to the region and fuel economic development locally,” Mr Barilaro said.
“I’m looking forward to sharing the draft masterplan with the community over coming weeks. Today’s budget means we can get on with delivering this exciting vision.”
$1 MILLION BOOST FOR MUMS AND BUBS IN THE MONARO
New parents in Queanbeyan and surrounding communities will have access to increased specialised support, with the NSW Government committing $1 million to early parenting service provider Tresillian.
Mr Barilaro said the funding will deliver a new Tresillian mobile van in Queanbeyan and cover staffing costs.
“The Tresillian Family Care Centre Hub in Queanbeyan has made a huge difference to the lives of parents and families in our community,” Mr Barilaro said.
“I’m thrilled that today’s budget means the community has access to the support they need.”
TRANSFORMING COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE
Infrastructure across the Monaro received a significant boost in today’s budget with funding allocated to Queanbeyan’s Main Street upgrade, the Thredbo Valley Track extension and the Jindabyne Regional Sports Hub.
Mr Barilaro said these projects will make a huge difference to local communities across the Monaro.
“The Monaro Street upgrade is going to be a game-changer for Queanbeyan, and today’s allocation means we will have shovels in the ground in the first half of 2022,” Mr Barilaro said.
“It is also great to see an addition $13.5 million included to continue the Thredbo Valley Track extension. This project is going be a massive tourism drawcard for the region.”
The Jindabyne Sport and Recreation Hub was allocated $2.5 million in today’s budget.
NEW JINDABYNE POLICE STATION RECEIVES SIGNIFICANT BOOST
Policing will be bolstered in the Snowy Mountains, with today’s budget including $5.9 million for the upgrades of the Jindabyne, Perisher and Thredbo Police Stations.
Mr Barilaro said today’s allocation will be welcomed by the local community.
“The safety of the community is paramount, and by upgrading these station we are ensuring our wonderful men and women in blue have the resources they need to do their job to their best ability,” Mr Barilaro said.
QUEANBEYAN RACECOURSE DROUGHT-PROOFING PROJECT
The Queanbeyan Racecourse is set to undergo major improvements to its irrigation and storm water catchment systems, with $500,000 allocated in today’s budget.r Barilaro said the funding will make a huge difference to the Queanbeyan Racing Club.
“Racing is a big part of Queanbeyan, with events including the Queanbeyan Cup and the annual Boxing Day Races drawing large crowds,” Mr Barilaro said.
“This funding will ensure the club is prepared for when the next drought hits. These improvements will not only drive down the club’s reliance on the local water supply but will also bring down ongoing costs.”
