Communities from Batemans Bay through to Eden are set to see a budget boost as the Far South Coast benefits from a strong 2017-18 NSW Budget injection.
Member for Bega Andrew Constance said the seat of Bega has not been forgotten with communities receiving real investment from the budget again this year, confirming the state’s commitment to regional areas.
“Our locals know better than anyone that investment in diverse regions like ours - with everything from dairy and oyster farmers through to small business and tourism operators - makes a huge impact on the state’s overall economy,” Mr Constance said.
“Not only will our region see major infrastructure investment in many important projects and upgrades, we are also supporting families, farmers and community groups wherever we can.
“This budget, is going to see our community receive funding for some really vital projects including the: Eden Wharf, Batemans Bay Bridge, Bega TAFE, Merimbula artificial reef, the Kings and Princes Highways and further investment into both Moruya and Merimbula airports. “Financial support and relief is being provided where it’s needed the most including a $100 sports rebate for families with children playing sport and $1.6 billion in tax-cuts for farmers and small businesses.”
Key local highlights in the 2017-18 budget include:
$30 million for the Eden breakwater wharf extension
$180 million for Princes and Kings Highways
$300 million for Batemans Bay and Nelligen bridge replacements
Above: Member for Bega Andrew Constance (Minister for Transport & Infrastructure), Melinda Pavey (Minister for Roads & Maritime and Freight), and Eurobodalla Shire Council's Mayor Liz Innes at last week's announcement of funding for Nelligen and Batemans Bay Bridges
$45 million for Dignams Creek Road realignment
$1 million for a new Eden Firestation
$3.2 million for Potato Point and Bodalla sewerage treatment facilities
$5.3 million for planning and construction of shared paths across Bega Valley and Eurobodalla Shires
$137 million in 2017-18 for upgrades to the Princes Highway to start building the upgrade between Berry and Bomaderry – vital to opening our tourism corridor
The Far South Coast is also set to benefit from:
$1 billion for regional infrastructure investment
$1.7 billion investment across TAFE NSW
$65 million for a new youth unemployment programs
$79 million in the Pensioner Rebate Scheme
$1 billion for Energy Rebates
$1.8 billion to protect our Environment and Heritage
$2 billion for Regional Water security 1.1 km of new Moruya and Narooma cycleways benefit from funding: Member for Bega Andrew Constance confirmed the NSW Budget will prioritise funding for the construction of more than 600 metres for a long overdue shared path in Moruya and almost 500 metres for a long overdue shared path along McMillan Road in Narooma. “I am so excited to confirm this Government has secured the funds to build a shared cycle and pedestrian path along path along McMillan Road in Narooma and for Bergalia Street in Moruya,” Mr Constance said. Eurobodalla Shire Council will receive support funding from the NSW Government to design and build the total of 1160 metres shared path, providing improved access and safety to cyclists and pedestrians. “This is just one of the many projects I am prioritising to ensure our community gets it fair share. “I thank the Eurobodalla Council for pursuing this great project, and know that if we work together we can ensure this project really the safety and active transport solutions our community needs. “By targeting investment into improved cycling and walking facilities, the NSW Government is supporting more liveable and accessible communities. “The 2017/18 Budget will see an unprecedented amount invested into active transport infrastructure across the state, making it easier for people who walk or ride to work to do so more safely,” Mr Constance said. “We are listening to key groups in the community, like Bicycle NSW and Bicycle Networks to prioritise, plan and extend paths all over New South Wales.”
For more information about the NSW Budget, please visit https://www.budget.nsw.gov.au/ source: Media Releases
