SOUTH Gippsland Mayor Cr John Schelling is supporting a federal election pitch from the Municipal Association of Victoria calling for investment in community infrastructure and roads while stressing the importance of genuine engagement with local government and regional communities.
Speaking after the launch of the MAV’s ‘Make Good Happen’ federal election campaign Cr Schelling said Gippsland communities were at the forefront of transition to renewable energy nationwide, but it wasn’t immediately obvious what the local benefits would be.
“It was important for us to be part of this campaign to continue to build our connections and lend our voice to key issues faced by all municipalities across the State.
“While it’s true that South Gippsland Shire Council also has a set of adopted advocacy priorities that we will also be having conversations with local candidates about, they fit nicely within the five focus points, which I think showcases the connection to the campaign,” Mayor Schelling continued.
The five priorities the Municipal Association of Victoria’s Make Good Happen campaign will focus on include:
- Making Community Infrastructure Happen: Delivering the infrastructure growing communities need to thrive.
- Making Safer Roads Happen: Connecting communities and supporting a safer and more productive Victoria.
- Making Fairer Energy Happen: Engaging communities in Victoria’s energy transition.
- Making Resilient Communities Happen: Future-proofing communities to withstand natural disaster.
- Making Local Democracy Happen: Supporting stronger, safer communities and countering disinformation.
Speaking about one of the most topical industries proposed in South Gippsland, offshore wind, Mayor Schelling reminds all levels of government that, “meaningful engagement with Council and the community is vital,” said Cr Schelling.
“Gippsland is right at the forefront of the future, but conversations on what this does and doesn’t look like cannot be underestimated.
“This isn’t just about the projects themselves, but the benefits to local communities and the wrap-around infrastructure and services that will need to be built to support the industry and those who work in it,” he said.
Municipal Association of Victoria Chief Executive Officer Kelly Grigsby said all councils across Victoria also want to partner with the federal government to meet housing demand; fix potholed roads; deliver energy transition commitments; fortify our critical infrastructure to withstand fires, floods or storms; and promote active local democracy and cohesive communities.
“With all of these challenges upon us, there has never been a more important time to advocate on behalf of communities for policies, initiatives and investments that will help build a resilient and sustainable Victoria,” Ms Grigsby added.
For more information, visit https://mav.asn.au/make-good-happen