Max Hatzoglou
An analysis of federal government data has revealed discrepancies in funding to Melbourne’s west compared to other parts of Victoria, according to Brimbank council.
Council said while it acknowledges some areas require greater funds due to environmental factors such as droughts, floods and bushfires, concerns still remain for Melbounre’s west disproportionately low share of funding.
The issue was addressed during council’s meeting on Tuesday, February 15, with councillors agreeing to formally call upon the government to rethink its funding strategy to provide a fairer share of money across the state.
Mayor Jasmine Nguyen says council’s focus is to reduce funding discrepancies in order for Brimbank to receive more funding to deliver greater support to the community.
“Our focus is on calling out the grant funding inequity and making sure the West gets its fair share of federal government funding.
“Brimbank is suffering the impact of historic underinvestment. To uplift and revitalise our community, we need investment for a number of key priority projects.
“We’re working hard to seek election commitments from major parties on Brimbank’s priorities and we are determined to ensure they will be addressed by the retained or incoming federal government.”
Cr Virginia Tachos asked the council to also write to the state government, seeking funding, which resulted in a fiery debate between councillors and accusations of councillors “playing politics”.
This request was knocked back by the majority of councillors.
However, council also agreed to write to Prime Minister Scott Morrison and federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg to advocate for Brimbank to be prioritised in the federal budget and election commitments to ensure a fair share of funding for economic development and COVID recovery.
