Colac Otway welcomes Federal Budget infrastructure funding
Published on 05 April 2019
Colac Otway welcomes Federal Budget infrastructure funding
Colac Otway Shire Council has welcomed the significant infrastructure investment in the 2019-20 Federal Budget, including a $200-million commitment for a fourth round of the Building Better Regions Fund.
Shire Mayor Cr Jason Schram said he was pleased the government had committed to fund another round of the BBR program because Colac Otway had received grants for multiple projects through the regional support initiative.
“Colac Memorial Square’s playspace upgrade; Central Reserve netball courts and lighting upgrade; Forrest Mountain Bike Trail detailed design; and the redevelopment of the Birregurra Mechanics Hall are among the Shire projects which have received funding through the past three BBR rounds.
“It’s great to see the BBR Fund continue in the Federal Budget, along with the new $220-million Stronger Regional Connectivity Package.
“Council will be applying for the next round BBR funding for important projects in our community and definitely advocating for improved internet and mobile services in the Shire.
“Colac Otway also welcomes the Federal Government’s $700 million budget commitment for the rail duplication between Geelong and Waurn Ponds stations, in addition to $2.7 billion for fast rail between Melbourne and Geelong.
“Funding for these Geelong line rail projects will be important in securing extra services on the Warrnambool line in the future and a faster commute between Colac and Geelong or Melbourne.
“The City Deal funding for Apollo Bay Harbour the Skenes Creek walking trail and Kennett River will provide our coastal communities with greatly improved infrastructure.
“The Roads to Recovery funding in the Federal Budget for Colac Otway is less than the average amount we received over the previous five years but about $300,000 per year more than the initial allocation for 2019-24,” Cr Schram said.
“Other significant road funding in the budget includes $80 million for the vital Princes Highway West upgrade and Council will continue to advocate for the inclusion of a physical safety improvement of the Blue Church intersection as part of the upgrade.”