In a media release from the Office of Andrew Constance, Member for Bega, he has announced that communities from Durras through to Eden are set to see a budget boost as the Far South Coast benefits from a strong 2018-19 NSW Budget injection.
Mr Constance said this budget cements major project spending in the region and will deliver hundreds of jobs.
“This year alone $258 million has been allocated to incredible projects that will transform our region including the new gateway bridge for our region that crosses the Clyde at Batemans Bay and $8.5 million for the new Bega TAFE.
“At no point in our history have we seen this magnitude of State Government investment on the Far South Coast.
“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 and community groups wherever we can.
“It is pleasing that the Premier and Deputy Premier have recently announced funding for the Batemans Bay Performing Arts and Indoor Aquatic Centre and Twyford Hall Theatre.
“I can also confirm that the Health Minister will be visiting Pambula Hospital within six weeks to assess a proposed refurbishment of the hospital, with costings currently being finalised.
Key local highlights in the 2018-19 budget include:
$1.5 Billion Princes Highway upgrades to increase safety and improve travel times.
$258 Million committed towards Batemans Bay and Nelligen Bridge replacements, Tathra Headland walking track, Merimbula and Moruya Airports, Eden Port, Eurobodalla Botanic Gardens redevelopment, shared paths, and connection to better sewerage facilities for Bodalla and Potato Point.
$1.62 Million for local community projects such as, Mossy Point and South Durras walkways and playgrounds at Mogareeka, Bemboka, Wyndham, Cobargo, local halls, showground upgrades, a fantastic platform and accessible change facility at Batehaven, upgraded amenities at Tilba and a revitalisation of Bandara Children’s Services.
$59.9 Million for local road infrastructure upgrade and maintenance.
$8.5 Million committed to build the new Bega TAFE campus.
$8 Million Light to Light walking track through Ben Boyd National Park.
$650,000 to finalise construction of the new Eden Fire Station.
$1.5m this financial year for the wave attenuator/safe harbour at Eden.
We are also supporting families with the continuation of the $100 rebate for active kids and new $100 creative kids vouchers, $500 million to provide smart and sustainable air-conditioning into schools, $197 million for extended access to Pre-School for 3 year old children and 100,000 fee-free apprenticeships across NSW.
Over $2.1 billion for Mental Health services across NSW including $100 million per year to strengthen early intervention and specialist community mental health teams. $42 million will also be available for additional community-based mental health services and support.
Other cost of living benefits include 40% reduction in the cost of registering caravans and camper trailers and assistance to reduce power bills through Service NSW.
For more information about all the projects and services in Bega visit www.andrewconstance.com.au
For more information about the NSW Budget, please visit https://www.budget.nsw.gov.au/
