Melissa Horne MP | Politician
Melissa Horne MP
Phone: 93999022
Reviews
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25.01.2022 While we continue to slow the spread of the virus, it's critical that we support the local businesses hardest hit by this pandemic. That's why the State Government recently announced an expansion of the Business Support Fund and the new Sole Trader Support Fund, providing much needed relief. Last week I wrote to local businesses, sharing the details of this support and encouraging them to apply. The State Government is committed to helping businesses survive this pandemic and reopen as we adapt to a new 'COVID Normal'. For more information about these announcements as well as all the other support available for businesses, please visit business.vic.gov.au.
25.01.2022 Home is more important than ever, and the Victorian Government is ensuring greater certainty and security for residential tenants and landlords by extending the eviction moratorium until 28 March, 2021. Under legislation introduced to Parliament this week, evictions would continue to be banned for residential tenancies, except in certain circumstances, until that date. Rental increases would continue to be banned for the same period. Rental relief grants which were recently... increased from $2,000 to $3,000 will also be extended until 28 March, giving tenants and their landlords more certainty as we continue to battle coronavirus. We’ve continued to listen to renters and landlords during this challenging time and these steps will provide even more support into 2021. For more information visit: https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au//renting-rules-and-support
24.01.2022 17 of 151 federal electorates are named after women- this is absurd. There are so many women who have made extraordinary contributions to our nation deserving of recognition. One such woman was one of my predecessors as the Member for Williamstown, the Hon Joan Kirner AC. Joan was the first female Victorian Premier, co-founder of EMILY’s List, and pivotal in establishing the Landcare movement. Tim Watts MP has launched a campaign to rename his seat, which includes my state seat, in recognition of this incredible woman. If you agree that we can do better in recognising Australian women like this, you can sign the petition here: https://timwatts.net.au/campaigns/rename-gellibrand-kirner
24.01.2022 At today's press conference, the Acting Premier announced an extension of the circuit breaker action for another 7 days in metropolitan Melbourne The advice from the CHO is clear: if we don't act now, this will get away from us Further business support has been announced, adding $209 million to last week's $250 million package ... Importantly, the Department of Health has updated the list of public exposure sites, adding one more in Williamstown this morning Williamstown Post Office 28/05/2021 3:20pm - 4:10pm (Tier 2: Get tested and isolate until you have a negative result) For a full list of other public exposure sites, check https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/exposure-sites
24.01.2022 Not entirely sure what people in Williamstown were more excited about this morning. The $11.3 million upgrade of Williamstown Swimming & Life Saving Club, the upgrade at Williamstown Seagulls for female facilities or the $3.8 billion to tackle mental health. Regardless the sun was shining and people smiling!
23.01.2022 Local business alert! A support package for businesses most affected by the 7 day circuit breaker action has just been announced. There’s 3 initiatives for small to medium sized businesses and sole traders. If your business has been affected please register at www.business.vic.gov.au
23.01.2022 Works have started on the upgrades to the reef at Nine Foot Bank off Geelong arm, which will improve the marine habitat providing more homes for fish and better fishing opportunities! The degraded shellfish reef will be restored by recycling 500 square metres of shells from restaurants and the seafood industry. The recycled shells will create a new place on the sea floor for the remaining oysters in the area to colonise. We’re investing $500,000 in the project, which will be finished by the end of the year and will improve biodiversity at the reef. We’re also investing a further $700,000 in three other reef projects near Geelong, so there will be plenty of great fishing opportunities in that part of the bay!
23.01.2022 Mayor Michael Clarke showed me through the pop-up park in Yarraville Village last week, which has been extended by the City of Maribyrnong all thanks to a $500,000 grant from the State Government. This is just one example of our $87.5 million Outdoor Eating and Entertainment Package at work to help restaurants, bars and cafes safely get back in business. Keep an eye out for more great spaces like this popping up!
23.01.2022 I’ve been checking out the progress on my daily walks past the Pilgrim St campus of Footscray Learning Precinct, but hadn’t had a peek inside. How cool does this look? It’s in the final stages, ready for its first intake of kids in 2021!
23.01.2022 How cute is this? A Yarraville local, Ripley, has sent me photos of his 'UtensilVille' school art project, a more diverse take on SpoonsVille. I want to give a special shout out to students in Prep to Year 7 who will be returning to on-site learning this week - you will all smash it. Thanks Ripley for sending me these photos.
23.01.2022 If you’re planning on getting out on the water it’s worth checking out the Boating Vic app and website, which provide trip preparation at your fingertips to help boat users be safe on the water. The Boating Vic platforms are so good that they’ve just won the award for best transport app and website in Australia by the IoT Hub (Internet of Things)! They were created by Maritime Safety Victoria and allow you to view localised weather information and warnings for more than 400 l...aunching locations, and watch selected boat ramps and car parks via real-time ramp cameras. The ‘Knowledge Hub’ also provides users with great safety advice - including choosing the right lifejacket, registering emergency beacons and even tips on what to look for when buying a second-hand boat. Check out www.boating.vic.gov.au or download the app in the App Store https://apps.apple.com/au/app/boating-vic/id1485708660
22.01.2022 We all know that Victoria has some of the best fresh food, wine, galleries and homewares in the world, but the pandemic has hit many small producers hard. So while we keep staying home to stay safe, the government’s new Click for Vic initiative has been set up to allow Victorians to keep getting the best local produce and products from the comfort of their own homes. By Clicking for Vic, Victorians will be connected to online offerings from the Victorian Country Market, Providoor, Co-Lab Pantry and many more. Check it out at visitvictoria.com/clickforvic
21.01.2022 We want input from boaters and industry leaders on how we can improve boating for people who love getting out on the water, which is why we’re calling for Expressions of Interest to join the Better Boating Fund roundtable. Members of this roundtable will have the exciting opportunity to co-design the Victorian Recreational Boating Strategy, which will determine what the state’s boating priorities should be. By creating the Better Boating Fund, we’re ensuring every single cen...t of the approximately $31 million of boat licensing and registration fees collected each year goes straight back into the industry. We’re asking passionate boaters to play a part by heading to getinvolved.transport.vic.gov.au/rec-boating-strategy to apply to join the roundtable!
21.01.2022 It's so exciting to see Frankston pier back open and better than ever, after we invested $670,000 to bring it back to life. It was severely damaged in storms last year, but has now been upgraded to include better berthing for boats and a brand new pier head, so the spectacular views at the end of the 220-metre-long pier can be enjoyed. We're also investing a further $24 million in other piers around the state at places like Altona, Portarlington, Queenscliff, Middle Brigton and Flinders.
21.01.2022 What a fantastic week it’s been for fishers and boaters around the state! We have passed two landmark pieces of legislation through the Upper House, which will allow us to establish a dedicated fund for boating and make sure people can access more camping spaces. The creation of the Better Boating Fund will mean every dollar of boating registration and licencing fees will be put back into recreational boating. This will see more investment to make sure boat ramps are maintain...ed properly, education programs are funded, and more promotion is done to increase participation. The new Crown Land rules will provide a fantastic opportunity for people to responsibly enjoy more of Victoria’s beautiful waterways, with camping added to the list of permitted activities on Crown Land alongside things like picnicking, fishing and bushwalking. These changes give people the opportunity to experience the best of what Victoria has to offer, and we’re so proud to be delivering significant reform like this!
20.01.2022 Playgrounds reopened in Melbourne yesterday, which is especially good news for families in Brooklyn where three parks have been refurbished thanks to a $5 million funding agreement between the Victorian Government as part of the West Gate Tunnel Project and Hobsons Bay City Council. D.N. Duane Reserve, Brooklyn Reserve, and Rowan Avenue Reserve have received upgrades including play and exercise equipment as well as improvements to gardens, path access, shelter and lighting. I was thrilled to take a look at the completed works at D.N. Duane Reserve prior to its closure and am even more excited that Brooklyn residents can now get out and enjoy these wonderful additions to their neighbourhood. Just remember to adhere to physical distancing limits and keep 1.5 metres apart from others.
20.01.2022 Today is an important day, as we honour the sacrifice and service of our veterans. This year, which marks 75 years since the end of WWII is a bit different- we’ll still observe a minute’s silence at 11am but we’ll do it at home as we continue our sustainable steps out of restrictions. You can tune in to a virtual presentation from the Shrine of Remembrance on Facebook or YouTube from 10:45am. You can also still support the work of the RSL by buying and dedicating a virtual poppy -> https://poppyappeal.com.au/ Lest we forget.
19.01.2022 Today, the Premier announced a groundbreaking new program to ensure that those working in insecure and casualised work don't have to choose between their health and their bank account. This program, which will be piloted over two years, will see five days of paid sick and carer's pay provided to those who would otherwise go without. We know what consequences this has had in people's lives - we don't need to look any further than the pandemic to see what happens when we don't do this. The Secure Work Pilot Scheme will change lives.
19.01.2022 We know that the coronavirus pandemic is having a significant impact on people’s lives, and no one is immune. That’s why the State Government launched the Working for Victoria fund in the wake of the pandemic to help people stay in work while contributing meaningfully to their local community. Wendy started her working life as a primary school teacher, before transitioning into a career in change management, organisational development and human resources. In the last few ye...ars, Wendy has been freelancing as a Career Transition Specialist, helping people transition to new jobs after redundancies. However, like many people in our community, work began drying up for Wendy this year as the pandemic took hold. That’s when she turned to the State Government’s Working for Victoria program. Wendy has joined Hobsons Bay City Council as a Career Support Officer a role she has described as her dream job. While there, Wendy is using her experience and skills to help the 130 other people employed at Hobsons Bay City Council through Working for Victoria by developing a program called The Ultimate Edge an initiative designed to help Working for Victoria participants prepare to find work at the conclusion of their six months with Hobsons Bay. It is fantastic to see this program supporting local people who have lost work, providing them with opportunities and making a real difference. For more information, visit www.vic.gov.au/workingforvictoria.
19.01.2022 19 kindergartens across the Williamstown electorate will share in a $55,250 funding boost, supporting local kids in Term 4 as they get ready for school in 2021. This will allow early childhood centres to do important things like fund more program hours, undertake transition activities or provide more one-on-one time with children and access allied health support such as speech pathologists. I’ve been amazed by the work done by early childhood centres in supporting local kids ...and families during this tough year and we’re making sure they get the most out of their last term at kinder and are ready to start school. Centres benefiting from this include: Altona Gate Kindergarten Merriwa Kindergarten Gowrie Victoria Clare Court South Kingsville Preschool Yarraville Community Kindergarten Home Road Kindergarten Emma McLean Kindergarten & Daycare Robina Scott Kindergarten The Range Children’s Centre Only About Children Williamstown Dickory Dock Kids Childcare- Kingsville Guardian Children & Education Altona North Kids by the Bay Children’s Service Altona North Children’s Service Newport Gardens Early Years Centre Newport Lakes Childcare & Early Learning The Learning Sanctuary Spotswood The Learning Sanctuary Yarraville Norfolk Street Child care Centre *Photo taken pre-COVID
19.01.2022 It’s all happening on the West Gate freeway at the moment! Works are continuing as part of the West Gate Tunnel Project with the finishing touches being put on pedestrian bridges connecting Brooklyn and Yarraville to Altona North and Spotswood, and 9kms of noise walls going in to make neighbourhoods quieter. Works to add two lanes in each direction are also underway in the middle of the freeway with traffic being moved onto new lanes at key sections. I’m really excited to see the freeway when the project is finished- here’s what it will look like!
17.01.2022 More exciting developments along the West Gate Freeway with these new and improved noise walls staring to take shape. Over nine kilometres of these walls are going to make quieter homes, backyards and parks for people living near the freeway in Spotswood, Yarraville, South Kingsville, Altona North and Brooklyn. Check out these concrete and acrylic panels that have been installed near the Williamstown Road end of the freeway!
17.01.2022 COMMUNITY UPDATE! Work is beginning at North Williamstown station! The Level Crossing Removal Project will begin investigations and minor, preliminary digging within the rail corridor, meaning buses will replace trains between Newport and Williamstown from 8pm to the last service each night on Tuesday 13th to Wednesday 14th October and again from Monday 19th to Thursday 22nd October. Residents in the area have received notification of these works, and they are not expected to... be disruptive. Later in October the project will complete further site investigations near the level crossing within the road corridor and use a borehole rig to collect ground samples. During these works reduced speeds and off-peak lane closures will be in place, which will be undertaken during the daytime. This is all part of delivering this Government's key promise of eliminating 75 dangerous level crossings across metropolitan Melbourne by 2025. This new station is shaping up to be really exciting and I can't wait to see it when it is completed.
16.01.2022 The Victorian Government is encouraging all Victorians to have their say on the state's proposed container deposit scheme (CDS). The scheme will create new jobs across Victoria, including in regional areas, supporting our local economy. The consultation will be open on the Engage Victoria website from Monday 2 November 2020 to Monday 30 November 2020. To find out more go to engage.vic.gov.au/container-deposit-scheme
16.01.2022 Victorians have achieved something incredible. This afternoon the Premier announced that we are firmly on top of this virus and ready to move out of lockdown and into the Third Step. From 11:59pm tomorrow night, we will move from ‘stay at home’ to ‘stay safe’ with no more restrictions on reasons to leave home and many businesses including cafés, pubs, and retail able to reopen. It is not lost on me how hard the past few months have been for everyone. I want to thank every sin...gle member of my community who have given so much to get us to this point today- this belongs to you. While we take these steady steps towards reopening, it is still important to stay safe and get tested if you have symptoms- restrictions may be easing, but we’ve got to keep at it. I know you’ll have questions about what you can do and when, and as always, my office is here to assist with this: (03) 9399 9022 [email protected]
16.01.2022 Applications are now open for the third round of the Business Support Fund to help businesses umpacted by ongoing corona virus restrictions. Eligible businesses will receive grants of either $10,000, $15,000 or $20,000 depending on annual payroll. There's also a number of other grant programs available which can be accessed here: https://www.business.vic.gov.au//b/business-support-fund-3
15.01.2022 Important information on our proposed changes to the Public Health and Wellbeing Act
15.01.2022 Here’s some exciting news to kick-start your week! Recent surveys of Port Philip by fisheries scientists have recorded the best sand flathead spawning in 24 years. This means we will begin to see an increase of sand flathead, which is easy to catch and delicious on the dinner table!... For many Victorians, sand flathead were the first fish they ever caught so this big spawning event in the bay is wonderful news that will resonate with lots of people, young and old. We are incredibly fortunate with the quality of produce at Port Phillip Bay boasting flathead, snapper, whiting and calamari for both locals and visitors to enjoy.
15.01.2022 On Friday I spoke with local sporting clubs along with representatives from Hobsons Bay City Council and Maribyrnong City Council about the challenges facing clubs as they look to return to play in a new COVID normal. Sporting clubs play such a vital role in our community. Ensuring they survive this crisis and come back better than ever is critical to our economic and social recovery, and to our community’s physical and mental wellbeing. For information about State Government support, including the Community Sport Sector Short-term Survival Package, go to https://sport.vic.gov.au/
14.01.2022 ALERT: Between 8pm and 6am until Thursday 3rd June, Major Road Projects Victoria will undertake works to repair the road surface of the roundabout at the intersection of Ferguson Street and Melbourne Road in Williamstown. This maintenance is part of the Western Roads upgrade, this Government’s commitment to maintaining and improving roads in the west. Residents can text ROUNDABOUT to 0499 073 073 to sign up for works updates, or visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au for more information.
14.01.2022 With all year levels back on campuses across Victoria as of yesterday, we now have more than a million students across the state that have transitioned from flexible and remote learning back to on-site learning. I'm so proud of our students and teachers for their massive effort and I know that yesterday was a very exciting day for all.
14.01.2022 Mantra Studio Kitchen and Bar in Yarraville is one of 106 recipients across the state that will share in grants totalling $9 million in the first tranche of the Victorian Live Music Venues program! I was so excited to be able to call Patsy and let her know that Mantra will be receiving $80,000 under this program, and I know that this will go a long way in supporting the local music scene. I am sure that many community members will be pleased to see our beloved venues revived after lockdown and I know that this funding will help in achieving that.
14.01.2022 We are all keen to celebrate the reopening of our licensed venues, so we’ve made it easier to support our businesses. If you have an overseas driver licence, you can now use it as identification to enter Victoria’s licensed venues and to purchase liquor at bottle shops, provided documents in a language other than English are accompanied by an authorised translation. We’ve introduced this change so people who don’t have an Australian licence can enjoy our pubs and clubs, and... to make business easier for operators. Visit www.premier.vic.gov.au/overseas-licences-now-accepted-proof for more information.
14.01.2022 More people will have the chance to catch a fish like this in metropolitan waters over the Grand Final long weekend, with a further 500 of these ‘stonker’ rainbow trout stocked into lakes around Melbourne this week. The rainbow trout weigh at least 4 kilograms each, with some up to 7 kilograms, and add to the 500 catchable-size trout recently stocked into metropolitan lakes. For the full metropolitan list of ‘stonker’ stocked waters in Melbourne, an interactive map showing y...our nearest location can be seen at www.vfa.vic.gov.au/metrostonkers Under updated restrictions, fishing and boating are permitted activities within 25 kilometres of home or permitted workplaces, with up to 10 people from a maximum of two households allowed. You need to be able to keep 1.5m distance from others and wear a face mask.
13.01.2022 The Premier has released the roadmap for how we come out of Covid-19 together. It's not a plan that is going to please many people. But it's a plan that is based on the best scientific and medical advice. It's a plan that means as we see numbers drop, we can open back up gradually without all the sacrifices we all have made being worthless. It's a plan to prevent a third wave. In the next stage around the 28 September, when case numbers drop in metropoliatan Melbourne, we’ll ...get more people back to work some 100,000 workers across construction, manufacturing, and landscape garden and maintenance workers who operate alone. There's a lot of detail on the road map here: https://www.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covid-19-restrictions-ro I know this is hard. I know this is not what people wanted to hear. But it is what will get us out of this pandemic, back to work, back to our families and friends, back to school and a new normal until a vaccine is found. Thank you to everyone for doing the right thing. And for people struggling there's help available through Beyond Blue www.beyondblue.org.au 1300 22 46 36 Lifeline www.lifeline.org.au 13 11 14
13.01.2022 The treasure at the end of this rainbow is thousands of recycled shellfish which we are using to build new reefs in Corio Bay! We’re investing $700,000 to build three reefs in the bay, which will provide new habitat for fish and draw more anglers to the area. The shellfish in this photo will be attached to rocky reefs which will be constructed at St Helens, Kirk Point and Outer Harbour, with construction due to finish by the end of the year.
12.01.2022 Today $30 million was provided by the Victorian Government to boost hardship payments and the state’s emergency food relief fund- these measures will help ensure that no Victorian is left behind. This package expands the capacity of community food relief organisations with an extra $4.5 million, as well as expanding Foodbank’s mobile food van service, helping them to reach more people. It also includes $12 million to assist CALD communities to respond to and recover from the ...impacts of the pandemic. The Extreme Hardship Support Program (EHSP) has also been extended, ensuring continued assistance for Victorians who are not eligible for income support from the Commonwealth Government. This includes help for Victorians who are often most at-risk from the pandemic, including temporary and undocumented migrants and those on temporary and provisional visas, with a $13.5 million boost to emergency financial assistance, information, referrals and complex casework support. Please do not hesitate to contact my office if you need assistance at [email protected]
12.01.2022 Remember that old concrete pedestrian bridge over the West Gate Freeway in Altona North? It was almost 50 years old and it was time for it to go. It’s been replaced by this massive 60m bridge as part of the West Gate Tunnel Project, and I was thrilled to check it out with members of the project’s Community Liaison Group this week! The new bridge connects Brooklyn and Altona North, providing a safe and easy alternative to the busy Millers Road for pedestrians and is open for use while the finishing touches are put on.
12.01.2022 Today is R U OK? Day, and when we find ourselves in such a challenging time, it’s even more important to stay connected and be willing to support those around us where we’re able to. So take a moment to check in on the people in your life, and ask are you okay?. It’s also important to know that there’s more to say after R U OK?- you don’t have to be an expert to keep the conversation going when someone says they’re not OK. Just knowing what to say can have a huge positive i...mpact by helping someone feel supported and access appropriate help, long before they’re at a point of crisis. You can also find useful resources and conversation guides here: www.ruokay.org.au For support, you can also contact: Lifeline Australia - 13 11 14 Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636 Kids Helpline 1800 551 800 Switchboard - 1800 184 527 Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467 (24 hours a day) Local Service Finder http://www.health.vic.gov.au/mentalhealthservices/
12.01.2022 HUGE NEWS for Bayside P-12 College today who will receive $6.714 million for important upgrades, including the Maths and Science Block. This money will go a long way in getting local kids the best start in life by giving them access to the best learning facilities. Not only will this deliver the quality education our kids deserve, it’ll create local jobs too. I am so proud to be part of a government that takes investment in every child’s future seriously, with our historic $7.2 billion investment in schools infrastructure, and I was beyond stoked to visit Bayside this morning and share this terrific announcement. More details here: https://melissahornemp.com.au/upgrading-bayside-p-12-colle/
12.01.2022 Does your organisation have a project to connect, celebrate or transform our community? Applications are now open for the West Gate Neighbourhood Fund - grants program! This is a really exciting opportunity for community groups in Melbourne’s inner west to benefit from a financial boost as part of the Victorian Government’s $10 million initiative to support the local community while the West Gate Tunnel is being built. ... Organisations can apply for up to $10,000 for one-off projects, up to $20,000 for festivals and events, and up to $100,000 for community facilities. More details about eligibility and the application process here- https://westgatetunnelproject.vic.gov.au/neighbourhoodfund
12.01.2022 If you like freshwater fishing for trout and salmon, then you’re going to love this news! We are overhauling the boat ramp on the southern shore of Lake Bullen Merri, near Camperdown, with the Victorian Budget 2021/2022 committing up to $2.5 million to the project. The works will include a centrally located pontoon, new concrete ramps, an improved turning circle, and an underwater retaining wall to minimise future impacts of sedimentation.... Works will be progressed by the Corangamite Shire Council in conjunction with the South Beach Foreshore Committee of Management.
10.01.2022 While we know that the current level of restrictions is necessary to beat this pandemic, a lot of people in the community are feeling lonely and vulnerable right now. The South Kingsville Community Centre has put together their 'Know Your Neighbour' campaign, where they are encouraging people in our community to stay connected while keeping our distance. If you want to be involved in this initiative, you can fill out their 'Know Your Neighbour calling card' to let your neighbours know you’re around if they need anything to help get them through - whether it be a phone call, some help with groceries, or just a wave across the street. If you want to find out more about the valuable work that SKCC is doing, you can head here: https://www.skcc.net.au/knowyourneighbour.
10.01.2022 Do you have an idea to support the health and wellbeing of young people or Victorians experiencing disadvantage in our local community? VicHealth is working with local organisations through their new 'Reimagining Health' grants which are open as of this week, with grants of up to $3000, $10,000 or $50,000. Local organisations here in Williamstown can find more information on VicHealth's website: www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/funding/reimagining-health-grants
10.01.2022 Today I introduced legislation into Parliament to create the Better Boating Fund, which will see us deliver on our promise of reinvesting all boating fees directly back into the industry! About $30 million per year comes from boating registration and licence fees and thanks to the Better Boating Fund every dollar of that will go back into boating. The Fund will focus on priorities like recreational boating facilities, boating safety and education programs. It will mean when the time comes to pay your boat rego, you’ll know that the money is going straight back into the industry you love!
10.01.2022 Local Coronavirus Update If you attended the following site between 8:15am and 5:15pm on 6 May, you must get tested: Pact Retail Accessories (front office), 232 Blackshaws Road, Altona North; this is a TIER 1 site- get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from exposure... Pact Retail Accessories (warehouse), 232 Blackshaws Road, Altona North; this is a TIER 2 site- get tested urgently and isolate until you have a negative result. For more info, including further exposure sites and testing locations, call the coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398 or visit https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/
10.01.2022 A $3 billion support package announced today for businesses including sole traders, tourism operators, hair and beauty services, accomodation providers, hospitality to name a few, will be of enormous assistance to businesses who are doing it hard. Details will be made available at www.business.vic.gov.au or for local businesses in the Williamstown electorate, you can contact me at [email protected]
09.01.2022 Check this out! The $3.83 million modernisation of Altona North Primary School is another step closer with ARC3 Constructions appointed to the project have a look at these renders. Students and staff will be able to enjoy new and improved facilities, including classrooms, a maker space and IT spaces.
09.01.2022 Today. International Day for The Elimination of Violence Against Women. And the colour is orange. Thanks to my amazing friend Gabrielle Williams MP for bringing such passion and dedication to highlight that every day, every woman should not only feel safe, they should be safe.
09.01.2022 Important COVID-19 Update Our health officials are at work to pinpoint the source of the latest cases, and we need to keep Victorians safe while they do this, so some additional COVIDSafe measures will come into effect from 6pm tonight, including: facemasks to be worn indoors, unless an exemption applies;... private gatherings in the home limited to 5 people per day; public gatherings limited to 30 people; and schools and workplaces remain open with current restrictions that are in place. These are important precautions while we await testing results and undertake contact tracing to stamp out the virus. Further info on restrictions, as well as exposure sites and testing locations available at https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/
08.01.2022 The level crossing at North Williamstown station will be gone for good months ahead of schedule by November 2021, thanks to a construction blitz starting in August. This has been talked about for so long, and now we are making it a reality. It's so exciting to see this project on the verge of major construction- thanks so much to the team for showing me around today with Minister Allan.
08.01.2022 In June 2020 we announced that the Ferguson Street level crossing would be rail under road, and opened up the final round of consultation for the community to have their say on the look and feel of the new station precinct. I am happy to announce that the final design has been released for the new North Williamstown station, upgrading the station and delivering a brand new forecourt. This new station will be in keeping with Williamstown's village feel, retaining the original... red brick building on the western side of the station. This upgrade will also deliver a new signalised pedestrian crossing, making it easier and safer for pedestrians coming to and from the station. This precinct will be well lit, and will incorporate a new secure bike shelter, new gardens and walking paths. A new architect-designed station building will be installed on the eastern side, replacing the existing eastern building which could not retained due to the site constraints, in particular the space required for a rail trench. In line with the project’s ‘rail under’ design, the station platforms will be lowered below ground level, with commuter access via stairs, ramps and lifts. Locals can find out more about the new station design here: https://engage.vic.gov.au/lxrp-ferguson-street
08.01.2022 The new Rosala Avenue pedestrian bridge over the West Gate Freeway was lifted into place over the weekend, and I am really excited about it. There is still some work to do before we can open the new bridge and re-establish this link between Brooklyn and Altona North, but this is a huge step forward. I also want to thank everyone around the worksite and on the traffic diversion routes, especially along Williamstown and Blackshaws Roads- I know there has been some disruption and your patience while crews completed this massive job has been incredible. Check out these incredible shots of the 60 metre bridge being lifted into place!
08.01.2022 While kids have been learning from home, two stellar schools in our area - Altona North Primary School and Bayside College Altona North Campus - have stepped up to the plate and continued to provide school meals for students under the State Government's School Breakfast and Lunch Club program. Altogether, schools across Victoria have provided 2.5 million meals in terms 2 & 3 for the students who need it most. A huge congratulations is in order to these schools, whose commitment to the health and wellbeing of their students persevered during this challenging period.
07.01.2022 Last week in Parliament, I gave a special mention to the incredible work of Friends of Cruickshank Park and Friends of Lower Kororoit Creek
07.01.2022 Important update for all.
07.01.2022 Last week I was thrilled to get in touch with the team at Australian Multicultural Community Services Inc. to inform them that they are going to receive a $100,000 grant from the Victorian Government under the Multicultural Community Infrastructure Fund! This is a huge win for the local community in our area. The funding will go towards the renovation of Millennium House in Seddon, a much-loved community facility built by post-WWII Polish immigrants, who volunteered their time and raised funds to build this important community hub. This grant will help AMCS to ensure that Millennium House can continue to be a community hub enjoyed by many for years to come.
06.01.2022 In May 2019 I announced that the State Government would be putting in a roof for the Newport Railway Museum. The museum hosts iconic pieces of Victoria’s rail history right here in my electorate, including H220 ‘Heavy Harry’. That’s why I was so thrilled to visit the museum and see the finished roof this weekend. The new roof measures 31 metres wide and 36 metres long, providing shelter from the elements for the exhibits, meaning they will be able to be enjoyed by locals and tourists for many years to come. I also got to meet Cliff and Jack who drove and fired Heavy Harry back in the 1950s, and they gave me an impromptu steam train driving lesson!
06.01.2022 This black bream I’m holding is worth $10,000 and will be part of our re-launched Golden Tag fishing competition, meaning you could head home from a day out fishing with a big boost to the bank balance. If you catch a tagged fish, you win! There are 20 fish worth $10,000 each which are being placed in fishing spots all across Victoria. This one is in Gippsland, but we’ve spread them out all over the state so everyone gets a chance to snag one. On top of the major prizes, the...re are another 1,000 fish which are worth $2,000 each if they’re caught. After a pause to the competition during the pandemic, it’s now officially back on and it will be a massive boost for fishing and for regional tourism.
06.01.2022 If you love seafood, then you’ll love this great news for our commercial fishing industry we’re making it easier for operators in East Gippsland to fish sustainably for octopus. We’ve now issued 11 licences for the East Gippsland commercial octopus fishery, which allows local operators to share in about $1 million worth of octopus catch each year. The octopus are caught in purpose-built, unbaited traps that minimise bycatch and are environmentally friendly.... These licences give security to those who fish octopus bringing long-lasting benefits for both businesses and workers.
06.01.2022 Earlier this year the last of 10 commercial licences at the Gippsland Lakes finished, and as part of the project to hand the area back to recreational fishers we’ve released a plan on how we’ll protect this beautiful region. By improving habitat, installing artificial reefs, increasing stocks and consulting on bag and size limits, the plan will help accelerate the recovery of key species such as black bream and dusky flathead. Gippsland locals and businesses can have their say on the draft plan by visiting vfa.vic.gov.au/gippslandlakes
06.01.2022 There’s a lot for the inner west in today’s budget but this is a big one. $5.47 million in upgrades is a massive investment in the kids at Yarraville Special Developmental School and a big win for the community!
05.01.2022 The Victorian Government is ramping up support for local sporting clubs doing it tough right now by expanding the Community Sport Sector COVID-19 Survival Package. 68 clubs in the Williamstown electorate will be receiving a further $500, on top of the initial round of funding of $1000 earlier in the year. This is going to help these clubs get to the other side of this lockdown, so we will be able to return to the sports we love in our new COVID normal world.
05.01.2022 So thrilled to see the Pilgrim st campus of the Footscray Learning Precinct coming together, ready just in time for the 2021 intake!
04.01.2022 Honoured to be part of the Premier’s Iftar dinner, where so many of our diverse and multi faith community come together to celebrate a time of prayer and thoughtfulness. This is particularly poignant as many around the world are not able to celebrate Ramadan as we did tonight. It was also a great pleasure to reconnect with the wonderful Leila Alloush and Australian Islamic Centre May you all have a blessed Ramadan.
02.01.2022 We’re asking for feedback from residents and businesses to help shape the future of the Williamstown foreshore as part of the Williamstown Maritime Precinct Framework. The framework aims to improve and protect the area for years to come, and your feedback will inform the way we assess future development, land use and investment. The Department of Transport is holding a virtual community meeting tonight between 5pm and 6:30pm where you can find out more about the project and e...ngage with experts. Community consultation is open until next Friday, 25 September and if you want to provide feedback or get more information on tonight’s virtual meeting, you can visit getinvolved.transport.vic.gov.au/williamstown-maritime-prec
02.01.2022 Only two days left until polls close in council elections! There are some great local candidates running in Hobsons Bay and you have until 6pm on Friday 23 October to get your ballots in the mail so make sure you check them out! Ping Renew Strand Ward
02.01.2022 Detailed design and testing works for the new St Kilda pier are ramping up! Workers recently completed geotechnical studies, like borehole logging, to get an indication of the conditions below the pier and inform construction methods. These are some of the exciting first steps in our $50 million upgrade of this iconic pier, which will provide more recreational space, better protection and viewing area for the little penguins, and preserve the pier for future generations.
02.01.2022 I’m really excited to announce that the Hastings Boat Ramp is back open in time for summer, with the first stage of the $1.6 million upgrade now complete! The new 40-metre-long concrete ramp replaces the old 32.5-metre-long structure, allowing people to back their boats into the water more easily during low tide. The Hastings Boat Ramp is the first of six key boat ramps around the state to receive upgrades as part of our unprecedented investment in boating infrastructure.... Thanks to all the users of the ramp for their patience as construction took place we’re now looking forward to seeing plenty of people using this great new ramp over summer.
02.01.2022 We know how important our fisheries officers are to preserving fish populations and making sure everybody’s doing the right thing, which is why it was great open the new Braeside Victorian Fisheries Authority station. These officers will be patrolling waters ranging from the much-loved Port Phillip Bay fishery all the way inland to the Yarra River, making fishing safer and more enjoyable for everyone. We’ve invested $240,000 to refurbish office space at the site and buy new equipment like jet skis, which will enable officers to patrol the more South Eastern fisheries.
02.01.2022 It was so great to meet with the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation's Lived Experience Advisory Committee and hear their stories and listen to their invaluable suggestions. They know more than anyone how problem gambling can impact on a person’s livelihood, and I thank them for participating in such a candid and enlightening discussion.
02.01.2022 Gambling Harm Awareness Week kicked off on Monday and is encouraging Victorians to break down the stigma associated with gambling harm through open conversations with friends and family members. It was great to meet with stakeholders and the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation this week, where I was pleased to announce $660,000 of funding to address gambling harm within migrant and refugee communities and community sporting clubs. Gambling Harm Awareness Week encourages people to talk about the harms associated with gambling and the effects they can have on communities, families, friends, workplaces and individuals. For more information, visit www.premier.vic.gov.au/supporting-more-victorians-address-g or www.responsiblegambling.vic.gov.au.
02.01.2022 This is a game changer. Creating jobs and building homes for some of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable Victorians. I’m proud to be part of a government that is making a difference every single day.
01.01.2022 Last year I met with Robyn Gregson, the Principal at Altona North Primary School, to discuss the needs of the school and how the State Government can best support them. This week, the State Government has appointed a builder to construct new classrooms, meeting spaces and an office, as well as to refurbish existing amenities and classrooms. The school has received $3,820,000 to undertake this massive task, so it is so great to see some movement on this. This is part of the Andrews Labor Government’s $7.2 billion investment to deliver more than 1,460 school upgrades, supporting over 7,500 construction jobs for Victorians.
01.01.2022 The United Housing Co-op’s Social Club in Yarraville held a workshop on cooking and nutrition this week, giving members the chance to socialise, cook and eat together before leaving with a bag of ingredients to recreate the meal at home. The Social Club began as an online club in 2020, supported by a $12,000 grant from the Victorian Government’s Let’s Stay Connected Fund, and has since continued in person as COVID-19 restrictions have eased. It is fantastic to see something that started in response to the pandemic have a lasting impact in our community. This is just one of the ways the Victorian Government has been helping organisations reduce isolation and build community connections as we recover from COVID-19.
01.01.2022 The Golden Tag competition is back, with one lucky fisher winning money already! Just days after I announced the competition was back on, Josh Read landed a golden-tagged brown trout of about 60cm in the Dartmouth Pondage. Josh had already lost a fish of a similar size earlier in the day, and while he was reeling in this one he noticed the golden tag on its back. Josh says the the $2,000 will go toward some upgrades to his boat before cod season opens on December 1. ... You can join in the fun right across Victoria as part of the Golden Tag competition, with chances to win up to $10,000. For all the details, head to www.vfa.vic.gov.au/goldentag
