The NSW Nationals in the state government have delivered vital funding in the 2021-22 NSW Budget to support the recovery and future prosperity of regional communities following drought, bushfires, floods and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Duty MLC for Murray Wes Fang said the people of Murray are set to benefit from funding for education, health services, policing and roads thanks to the community working together with the NSW Nationals in the state government to create a safer and stronger future.
“As part of the $250 million redevelopment project, $20 million will be invested in the Griffith Hospital Redevelopment in 2021-2022, and over $5 million allocated for the Rural Health Infrastructure Program in Deniliquin and Leeton, ensuring our communities have access to the same world-class facilities as those in the city,” Mr Fang said.
“The NSW Nationals in the state government are also delivering $2 million for the Moama Police Station to ensure we have the best resources possible to protect our community.
“This year’s Budget also sees Yanco Agricultural High School receive over $1 million to upgrade the boarding facilities. Murrumbidgee Regional High School is receiving a $1.3 million to upgrade their facilities as part of Stage 2.
“The NSW Nationals in the state government are leading the country in a social housing revolution, putting a roof over the heads of those who need it most. The Government’s social housing stimulus package is supporting vulnerable people and families while creating jobs across the State. Over $7 million will be invested in the Murray electorate for new supply and $1 million will be invested to upgrade existing housing.
“We are continuing the construction of the new Murray River Bridge between Echuca and Moama and the intersection upgrade of the Cobb Highway and Link Road with a 2021-2022 investment of over $8 million.
“Planning and development for an accessibility upgrade at Griffith Station will be funded with a $1.7 million investment. This will improve access to public transport for those with a disability, limited mobility and parents with prams,” Mr Fang said.
Budget highlights include:
• $150 million Mouse Control Package to help farmers, small businesses and households fight the mice plague currently impacting parts of regional NSW.
• More pre-school aged children will be safer around water with a $44 million program to provide $100 voucher for swimming lessons available to every pre-school child aged three to six in NSW.
• Support for public sector employees with paid special miscarriage and pre-term birth leave.
• Increased funding for the Regional Seniors Travel Card to extend the card from 2022 to more seniors in the regions, including those eligible for the Age Pension and receiving either a Disability Support Pension or a Carer Payment from Services Australia.
Deputy Premier and Leader of the NSW Nationals John Barilaro said more jobs and infrastructure builds will be delivered through the 2021-22 NSW Budget, to help our regions move through recovery and build on the benefits of regional living.
“Off the back of devastating drought, bushfires and floods, there has never been a more crucial time to support regional NSW by providing job opportunities, new and improved infrastructure and community-backed projects,” Mr Barilaro said.
“This budget has a strong focus on job creating infrastructure builds to ensure local economies remain strong and regional NSW continues to be a fantastic place to live and work. This is the NSW Nationals in the state government delivering for our regions.”
For more information, please go to budget.nsw.gov.au.
