Bill Shorten, Federal Opposition Leader
Federal Opposition pledges cash for Kinglake
Thursday, November 15, 2018
A Shorten Labor Government will deliver $750,000 in funding towards the revitalisation of the Kinglake community, transforming the face of the town in the lead up to the 10-year anniversary of the 2009 bushfires.
A statement was issued today (Thurs.) by Mr Shorten on his visit to the Mountain, accompanied by McEwen MHR Rob Mitchell.
“Black Saturday in Victoria remains Australia’s worst bushfire disaster, devastating rural and regional communities across the state. The town of Kinglake was particularly hard hit, and ten years on, the region continues to rebuild.
“This project marks a turning point in Kinglake’s future, 10 years on from the devastation.
“Federal Labor will partner with State Labor and the Murrindindi Shire Council, providing a $750,000 investment to make the revitalisation a reality.
“he project will deliver a significant economic boost to the region, with new streetscape for providing a focal point and sense of pride for the communities of the Kinglake Ranges.
“The revitalisation will include a revamped town centre and streetscape, renewal of visitor facilities, upgrades of key roads and new planting and signage.
“I have a clear message to the Kinglake community, and those towns that were changed forever by the Black Saturday bushfires – I have never forgotten what a terrible time you went through,” Mr Shorten said.
“The devastation I saw in the wake of Black Saturday will stay with me forever – but so will the courage and strength of the communities impacted.
“This region was particularly hit by unimaginable devastation in terms of loss of lives and livelihoods. Over the last decade, this is a community who has united and worked hard to rebuild their lives – their homes, businesses, and their community.
“But I know they need our support to continue this work of rebuilding. That’s why this commitment is so important to me.
“This funding gives some modest certainty to the community ahead of the ten year anniversary next year. It’s a sensible investment in this region’s future and a testament to the community’s ongoing resolve and spirit to rebuild,” Mr Shorten said.