In this year’s Budget, the Commonwealth Government has doubled down on our commitment to regional communities. The 2021 Budget is a win for our region. It delivers several measures that address key priorities for Mallee. There are a number of great measures that will deliver better roads, infrastructure, and connectivity; greater access to healthcare; the…
On Monday this week I had the pleasure to attend the unveiling of Mildura Base Public Hospital’s amazing aboriginal artwork. The artwork is a brilliant display of the talent in our community, and of the Base Hospital’s commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of Indigenous Australians in our community. Although he was unable to…
The northern Mallee region, dissected by the winding Murray River, is defined by its thriving horticulture industry. As the Member for Mallee, I’m filled with a sense of pride and purpose when I observe the sprawling rows of grapevines and fruit bearing trees that characterise the landscape. However, I have a growing disquiet centred…
The HomeBuilder grant has driven the highest level of new home commencements in more than 20 years. It has been a fantastic program that has driven building activity in our region like we have never seen before. Latest building approvals figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics show hunders of new houses were signed…
On Thursday, based on expert advice received from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation, the Commonwealth Government moved to adjust Australia’s vaccination program. The medical advice to the Government is that the risk of blood clotting side effects from the Astra Zeneca vaccine is four to six in one million people, in the first…
Just in time for the holiday period, an unfortunate outbreak in New South Wales has thrown the Christmas plans of thousands into disarray. We always knew we would encounter more spot fires of the virus, but the timing of this outbreak really could not have been worse. The people of NSW and their Government have…
Over the past 18 months I’ve been working closely with industry stakeholders, farmers, and community members who have an interest in the future of rail freight transport in Victoria. I’ve repeatedly fought on their behalf, taking their views to the Deputy Prime Minister, Michael McCormack, who is well aware of the importance of this project.…
Its been a difficult 12 months for the table grape industry. At the end of 2019, the price of water on the temporary market was through the roof. In addition the Indonesian market caused concern and confusion for Red Globe producers. COVID-19 didn’t spare the industry, with workforce challenges rising as first international borders closed…