Regional Development and Local Government Minister Kristy McBain got a tour of Casey Council’s priority projects for funding during a visit on 18 May.
Ms McBain was briefed on council advocacy projects including an upgrade and extension of Thompsons Road from Carrum to Pakenham.
Other priority items for state and federal funding are Casey Fields stage 3, Clyde Road corridor upgrade and the Doveton Pool in the Park redevelopment.
Casey Council administrator Miguel Belmar, chief executive Glenn Patterson, Bruce MP Julian Hill and Holt MP Cassandra Fernando were among the federal minister’s touring party.
Mr Patterson said investment in Casey and the South East would “unlock the economic and urban potential of what is one of Australia’s fastest growing regions” as well as create jobs and boost productivity.
“With more than 5000 new families calling Casey home every year, our growing population needs more investment than ever before.
“We are home to more than 390,000 residents and our population is forecast to grow to more than 550,000 by 2041, so it’s important that we work with all levels of government to ensure that we can continue to respond to the needs of our community and cater for current and future growth.”
Mr Patterson welcomed the Government’s additional $2.57 million in Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program funding to Casey.
“Previous rounds of this program have enabled Council to deliver a diverse range of projects that we may not otherwise have been able to deliver in the same timeframe,” he said.
“This has included everything from upgrades to recreation reserves, sporting facilities and local roads to restoration of heritage assets and construction of accessible paths and pedestrian bridges – all worthy projects that have resulted in many benefits to the community.”
Mr Hill said the minister was briefed on “Casey’s rapid growth” and the need for federal support for “critical transport and community infrastructure”.
“Kristy is a former mayor in Bega Shire, NSW, leading through bushfire disasters, and understands first hand the power of community advocacy.”
Ms Fernando said Casey Fields, especially the soccer facilities and the upcoming Casey Mini Stadium, was the “pride of our community”.
“This crucial investment will help deliver priority local road and community infrastructure projects in our region, and create jobs and long-lasting benefits for the people of Holt.”
