Latrobe City Council welcomes key findings in the reviewed October 2022/23 Federal Budget that support the Latrobe community.
The updated budget outlines close to $25 billion committed by the Federal Government towards renewables and clean energy spending.
This commitment is vital for Latrobe’s transition to new energy – which is necessary for the development of new jobs and business opportunities for the future.
Two new regional programs totalling $1 billion including the Growing Regions Program and Regional Precincts and Partnership Program will also provide grant-based opportunities for both Council and local community groups.
Investment has also been earmarked for a Powering the Regions Fund with $1.9 billion to assist regional communities transition to net zero emissions and $250 million for the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Fund.
Mayor of Latrobe City, Councillor Kellie O’Callaghan was pleased to see the commitment to renewables and clean energy alongside core programs that service the local community.
“Council is grateful to the Federal Government for their commitment to renewables and clean energy. This type of funding is crucial to the ongoing prosperity of our region as we transition to new industry and job opportunities.
“We will also be looking further into the Powering the Regions Fund as we navigate our transition from coal-fired power generation. The establishment of such a program is timely to ensure we remain competitive and continue to thrive as a regional city.
“Other key components of the October Federal Budget 2022/23 will support our local community including childcare subsidy, paid parental leave extensions and cheaper PBS medications to address cost of living pressures.
“It has also been great to see wellbeing measures considered in this budget – ensuring education, health standards and the environment are reflected for the liveability of our nation,” said the Mayor.
For more information on Council’s advocacy efforts please visit: www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/advocacy