- Published:
- Tuesday 11 July 2017
Ovens Murray locals have a chance to continue their conversation with the Andrews Labor Government, as community consultation leading up to the next Ovens Murray Regional Assembly kicks off.
Minister for Regional Development, Jaala Pulford, encouraged local residents to engage with the Ovens Murray Regional Partnership ahead of its 2017 Regional Assembly to be held in Wodonga on 27 July.
The Labor Government established nine Regional Partnerships last July, giving communities the opportunity to have their say on local matters and provide a direct voice into government decision-making for the benefit of the region.
Through extensive community engagement last year, the Ovens Murray Partnership identified the region’s priorities for the future and presented their ideas to government. Top priorities for Ovens Murray included educating and developing skills for future generations, developing the region’s key industry sectors and improving transport connectivity.
The Ovens Murray Partnership has started seeing the results of its hard work, with the Labor Government taking action to deliver a $140 million investment to improve the region’s rail network as part of the $1.57 billion Regional Rail Revival package.
North east Victoria will also receive $12 million to strengthen its reputation as a world class cycling destination and give the region’s tourism sector a significant boost.
This year’s consultation period and Regional Assembly will give the community a chance to build on the momentum already gained and share thoughts about local opportunities and challenges that span every government portfolio.
The Ovens Murray Regional Partnership includes the Alpine, Benalla, Indigo, Mansfield, Towong, Wangaratta and Wodonga municipalities.
Register or become part of the conversation online by visiting www.engage.vic.gov.au/ovens-murray.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“Rural and regional Victorians are passionate and keen to develop their regions. We hope they’ll embrace this opportunity to be part of Victoria’s Regional Assemblies.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“The Ovens Murray Regional Assembly will support community members to work in partnership with government for the benefit of the whole region.”
Quotes attributable to the Ovens Murray Regional Partnership Chair Irene Grant
“This collaboration between government, business and the community is an important opportunity to build on our strengths and position the region for a strong future.”