Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney said the Budget delivers on the Bracks Government’s election commitments, building on the achievements of its first two terms and providing a framework for the State’s future.
Ms. Tierney said this year’s Budget delivered on the Government’s promises to improve services, build vital infrastructure and make Victoria and even more attractive place to invest.
The Treasurer, John Brumby, handed down the Bracks Government’s eighth State Budget in Parliament today, which will put Victoria on track for a strong operating surplus of $324 million next year.
“The Bracks Government is delivering on its commitment to meet the challenges of the future and invest in the services that matter to families,” Ms. Tierney said.
Ms. Tierney said significant announcements in the 2007-08 State Budget for the South West Coast Region included:
• WARRNAMBOOL: Warrnambool Hospital Redevelopment Stage 1 – $16 million;
• WARRNAMBOOL: Modernisation of Brauer Secondary College – $1.593 million;
• NIRRANDA: Clean Coal and Carbon Storage – $2 million;
• WARRNAMBOOL: Community Legal Service – Part of a $8.8 million initiative;
• PORTLAND: Bus Improvements;
• LOWER GLENELG: 15 New Park Rangers at Grampians, Lower Glenelg, Wilsons Prom and Great Alpine – Part of a $24.9 million initiative.
“These initiatives will build on the previous Budget announcements for the South West Coast ensuring these regions continue to be a great place to live, work and invest,” Ms. Tierney said.
Ms. Tierney said the Budget included measures to make local business more competitive such as land tax reforms and further cuts in WorkCover premiums.
“The Budget also delivers the first stage of the biggest school rebuilding program in the State’s history, while continuing to provide high levels of investment in health services,” Ms. Tierney said.
“The 2007-08 Budget builds on the Government’s seven years of leadership, which has seen a massive investment in the infrastructure and services that matter to Victorians.”