By Liam McNally
The federal budget included a number of funding allocations for the electorate of Hawke, including $10 million for a business case for Western Highway upgrades.
The business case was first reported on by Star Weekly as a Labor election pledge in April, and now the funding is confirmed in the budget released on Tuesday, October 25.
Hawke MP Sam Rae said delivering on this commitment was his first priority for the Federal Budget, because it is “desperately needed to keep our growing community moving.”
“This significant investment is the first step in delivering the much-needed upgrade to ensure locals have a quicker and safer commute,” he said.
“After almost a decade of the Liberal Government ignoring us, the new Labor Government is delivering for our community.”
Other budget allocations for the Hawke electorate include access to cheaper childcare through an increased subsidy of up to 90 per cent, and an increase of paid parental leave to six months by 2026.
The cost of medicines at pharmacies across Melton, Bacchus Marsh, Sunbury and surrounds will also become cheaper with the cost of scripts to be reduced by $12.50 from the start of next year.
The budget also delivers $400,000 to upgrade Federation Park in Darley with traffic, pedestrian and parking improvements as well as the replacement of the amenities building, play space improvements and ancillary works.
Plumpton religious organisation Khalsa Shaouni will receive $86,000 for infrastructure upgrades, and Sunbury will receive a new Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, and $250,000 to upgrade Ligar Street.
Mr Rae said he will always fight for best outcomes for communities across Hawke.
“This budget not only delivers critical infrastructure for our community but will also ease the pressure on the cost of living,” he said.
“The cost of living package will provide targeted and practical relief to families and households across Sunbury, Melton, Bacchus Marsh and surrounds.”
