The Andrews Labor Government is supporting drought affected communities by fast-tracking infrastructure projects to create jobs and drive much needed economic growth.
Premier Daniel Andrews today joined Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford and Minister for Water Lisa Neville at the Donald Cup to announce that $1 million worth of local community infrastructure projects in drought affected areas will be fast-tracked through the $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund.
The projects include improvements to community infrastructure and amenities along Foletti Lake foreshore, as well as upgrades to the Donald Archives Museum.
Another project fast-tracked under the Fund will support the development of the Buloke Towns Central Business Precinct Master Plan, with Birchip, Charlton, Donald, Sea Lake and Wycheproof, all backed to develop their own central business precinct master plan.
Communities in the shires of Buloke, Loddon and Yarriambiack will also be helped to develop and host new community events. Further fast-tracked projects will be announced over the coming days.
Attending the Donald Cup, the Premier also announced that close to $7,000 from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund will go towards upgrading veterinary facilities and equipment at the Donald and District Turf Club to improve the safety of care for horses.
The Labor Government recognises the economic and social contribution country racing makes to our rural and regional communities, particularly during these periods of challenging conditions.
Country racing contributes almost $940 million in economic output, with the racing industry in the Mallee region alone generating more than $58 million for the Victorian economy.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“By investing in the Donald Cup and community infrastructure projects, we’re ensuring these drought affected areas are receiving the support they need to keep their communities strong and resilient.”
“Country race meets like the Donald Cup play a critical role in bringing communities together and we are proud to support them.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford
“We know when conditions worsen it’s not only farmers who feel the effects but entire communities.”
“That’s why we’re working with local councils and fast-tracking these projects to provide targeted support to kick-start economic growth and create local jobs.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Water Lisa Neville
“We all know the incredible impact the millennium drought had on our communities and how important it is to support them during these challenging conditions.”
“This targeted support will help improve the liveability of rural and regional towns in drought affected councils.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020