- Published:
- Thursday 13 May 2021
The Andrews Labor Government is backing one of Victoria’s key coastal hubs to grow, with new plans to rejuvenate Wonthaggi’s town centre unveiled.
Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas today visited the former mining town on the Bass Coast to announce a $2 million investment in the Wonthaggi Activity Centre Streetscapes project, as part of the Labor Government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund – Stimulus Round.
The Wonthaggi Activity Centre Streetscapes project will provide better pedestrian access, improved cycling and motorist networks and create new alfresco dining areas.
The funding will enable Bass Coast Shire Council to undertake several developments, including the revitalisation of Apex Park in the town’s centre, improvements to McBride Avenue, and landscaping and safety improvements on Graham Street.
Wonthaggi’s long term growth is being planned for through the Bass Coast Shire’s Wonthaggi North East Precinct Structure Plan. This plan will guide the development of up to 5,000 new homes over the next 30 to 50 years and identify what supporting infrastructure is needed.
Wonthaggi’s town centre redevelopment is one of a range of projects that will be announced in coming weeks as part of the Regional Infrastructure Fund – Stimulus Round.
The Regional Infrastructure Fund is part of the Labor Government’s flagship $156 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund, helping businesses create more jobs in regional Victoria, supporting community projects and backing councils to build the infrastructure that locals and visitors need.
The stimulus round will help to revitalise local economies as they recover from the effects of the pandemic and create jobs while improving tourism and community infrastructure.
The fund is key to the Labor Government’s $8 billion investment across regional and rural Victoria unveiled in the Victorian Budget 2020/21 to support communities to come back stronger than ever.
The second round of the fund’s program is due to open for applications from 16 June. Under this competitive round, local regional and rural councils will be invited to apply for grants.
Information and guidelines for the Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund can be found at rdv.vic.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas
“The redevelopment of Wonthaggi’s town centre will be a major boost for this go-ahead town, making a daily difference to the lives of locals and ensuring visitors will want to return again and again.”
“This project will deliver immediate benefits by creating jobs and increasing economic activity. This round of the Regional Infrastructure Fund will ensure Victoria continues to have our nation’s most vibrant regional economies.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale
“The Wonthaggi Activity Centre works will refresh parks and streetscapes and enhance community life, which is fantastic for locals and visitors alike. We are delighted to back this important initiative.”