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FREE PLAY AT FREDERICK WACHTER RESERVE

Keysborough kids of all ages can enjoy more fun and recreation in their newly built playground, backed by the Allan Labor Government. Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams today joined Greater Dandenong City Council Acting Mayor, Cr. Lana Formoso, to officially open the new playground at Frederick Wachter Reserve, made possible by a $300,000 investment from the Victorian Government’s Local Sports Infrastructure Fund. Designed with community consultation, the playground features both ‘market garden’ and ‘wetland’ themes providing engaging recreational opportunities for young Victorians, from young children through to teenagers with water and sand play zones. New equipment includes inground trampolines, a tower with two tall slides, a challenging rope climbing element, cubby play area, musical bells, timber steppers and balance logs, with sensory art and Auslan braille signage incorporated into the design. Parents and caregivers can enjoy the new park amenities including the new picnic tables and seating, with shade provided by trees and shade sails over play areas. The Victorian Budget 2023/24 is providing more than $213 million to deliver and improve community sports infrastructure and support initiatives that boost participation and inclusion in local sports. It’s part of the more than $1.9 billion invested in community sport and recreation infrastructure since 2014.  Gabrielle Williams acknowledged the City of Greater Dandenong for its financial contribution of more than $540,000 and commitment to delivering the project.    For more information about infrastructure grant opportunities available through the Victorian Government visit sport.vic.gov.au     Quotes attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams “It’s fantastic to see the new Frederick Wachter Reserve playground complete and ready for locals to enjoy.” “This new playground was designed with the community, for the community – it’s multi-level and accessible with plenty of opportunities for imaginative and creative play.” “We’re supporting local councils to deliver inclusive and exciting playgrounds, helping to boost liveability and support our growing communities.”

FREE PLAY AT FREDERICK WACHTER RESERVE

Keysborough kids of all ages can enjoy more fun and recreation in their newly built playground, backed by the Allan Labor Government. Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams today joined Greater Dandenong City Council Acting Mayor, Cr. Lana Formoso, to officially open the new playground at Frederick Wachter Reserve, made possible by a $300,000 investment from the Victorian Government’s Local Sports Infrastructure Fund. Designed with community consultation, the playground features both ‘market garden’ and ‘wetland’ themes providing engaging recreational opportunities for young Victorians, from young children through to teenagers with water and sand play zones. New equipment includes inground trampolines, a tower with two tall slides, a challenging rope climbing element, cubby play area, musical bells, timber steppers and balance logs, with sensory art and Auslan braille signage incorporated into the design. Parents and caregivers can enjoy the new park amenities including the new picnic tables and seating, with shade provided by trees and shade sails over play areas. The Victorian Budget 2023/24 is providing more than $213 million to deliver and improve community sports infrastructure and support initiatives that boost participation and inclusion in local sports. It’s part of the more than $1.9 billion invested in community sport and recreation infrastructure since 2014.  Gabrielle Williams acknowledged the City of Greater Dandenong for its financial contribution of more than $540,000 and commitment to delivering the project.    For more information about infrastructure grant opportunities available through the Victorian Government visit sport.vic.gov.au     Quotes attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams “It’s fantastic to see the new Frederick Wachter Reserve playground complete and ready for locals to enjoy.” “This new playground was designed with the community, for the community – it’s multi-level and accessible with plenty of opportunities for imaginative and creative play.” “We’re supporting local councils to deliver inclusive and exciting playgrounds, helping to boost liveability and support our growing communities.”

DANDENONG FOOTBALL STARS SET TO SHINE

The future is bright for Dandenong footballers, thanks to an upgrade of sports lighting at George Andrews Reserve, backed by the Allan Labor Government. Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams today joined City of Greater Dandenong Acting Mayor, Cr Lana Formoso and the Dandenong Thunder Football Club to officially mark the start of the upgrade works, which received a $200,000 investment from the Labor Government. George Andrews Reserve is a popular Dandenong football hub and is the home ground of National Premier League team Dandenong Thunder and their development programs. Works at the reserve include installing 500 lux LED lighting on the main pitch, bringing the facilities up to professional competition, and broadcast standards, giving the Dandenong Thunder an opportunity to play in front of a wider audience. Improved lighting will also increase playable hours at the reserve and give the club a chance to get more locals laced up, on the field and enjoying the health and wellbeing benefits of taking part in the World Game. The Victorian Budget 2023/24 is providing more than $213 million to deliver and improve community sports infrastructure and support initiatives that boost participation and inclusion in local sports clubs and organisations. It’s part of more than $1.9 billion invested in community sport and recreation infrastructure since 2014. Ms Williams acknowledged Greater Dandenong City Council for its investment of more than $500,000 and its commitment to delivering the project. For more information about infrastructure grant opportunities available through the Victorian Government visit www.sport.vic.gov.au Quotes attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams “George Andrews Reserve is the home of elite football in Dandenong, and I’m very pleased to see we’ll soon have the necessary infrastructure to broadcast our players to a wider audience.” “Dandenong Thunder Football Club is a mainstay of the National Premier League Victoria, and it’s only right that they are able to host and broadcast games from their home grounds here at the reserve.” “Improved lighting also means more playable hours at the reserve, and more opportunities for our community to enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of getting involved with community sport and recreation.”

DANDENONG FOOTBALL STARS SET TO SHINE

The future is bright for Dandenong footballers, thanks to an upgrade of sports lighting at George Andrews Reserve, backed by the Allan Labor Government. Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams today joined City of Greater Dandenong Acting Mayor, Cr Lana Formoso and the Dandenong Thunder Football Club to officially mark the start of the upgrade works, which received a $200,000 investment from the Labor Government. George Andrews Reserve is a popular Dandenong football hub and is the home ground of National Premier League team Dandenong Thunder and their development programs. Works at the reserve include installing 500 lux LED lighting on the main pitch, bringing the facilities up to professional competition, and broadcast standards, giving the Dandenong Thunder an opportunity to play in front of a wider audience. Improved lighting will also increase playable hours at the reserve and give the club a chance to get more locals laced up, on the field and enjoying the health and wellbeing benefits of taking part in the World Game. The Victorian Budget 2023/24 is providing more than $213 million to deliver and improve community sports infrastructure and support initiatives that boost participation and inclusion in local sports clubs and organisations. It’s part of more than $1.9 billion invested in community sport and recreation infrastructure since 2014. Ms Williams acknowledged Greater Dandenong City Council for its investment of more than $500,000 and its commitment to delivering the project. For more information about infrastructure grant opportunities available through the Victorian Government visit www.sport.vic.gov.au Quotes attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams “George Andrews Reserve is the home of elite football in Dandenong, and I’m very pleased to see we’ll soon have the necessary infrastructure to broadcast our players to a wider audience.” “Dandenong Thunder Football Club is a mainstay of the National Premier League Victoria, and it’s only right that they are able to host and broadcast games from their home grounds here at the reserve.” “Improved lighting also means more playable hours at the reserve, and more opportunities for our community to enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of getting involved with community sport and recreation.”

NEW MENTAL HEALTH LOCAL A STEP CLOSER FOR DANDENONG

The Allan Labor Government is on track to deliver another nine Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals across Victoria, including in Dandenong, ensuring more people have access to walk-in mental health care and support, without the need for a GP referral. Following the opening of the first six sites in 2022, Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt today announced the providers selected to deliver these critical services for people aged 26 years and over, living with mental health or co-occurring alcohol and other drug concerns. Acting as a ‘front door’ to the mental health system and staffed by qualified mental health professionals, the Locals can be found in metropolitan and regional Victoria. Selected for their experience and expansive sector knowledge, the providers for the Dandenong site is Mind Australia, in partnership with Monash Health, The Victorian Foundation for Survivors of Torture Inc. and Thorne Harbour Health. Support is delivered in-person, telehealth, and via outreach services and a care plan is then designed to match patient goals and preferences – family, carers and supporters can also be involved pending patient permission. A flagship reform following the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, the Labor Government will deliver 50 Local Services across Victoria by the end of 2026. In the most recent Victorian Budget 2023/24, $67 million was invested to establish another three Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals across the state, with an additional $10 million to plan for another 20 locations. Since the Royal Commission handed down its final report, significant progress has been made with work underway to implement more than 90 per cent of recommendations and more than $6 billion invested in the system over the past three years – the largest investment in mental health in Victoria’s history. Quotes attributable to Member for Dandenong, Gabrielle Williams “It’s great to know that mental health care for people in Dandenong will soon be available in our own backyard. Community-focused mental health care means residents can access life-changing services right here, right now.” “A community-based mental health service in Dandenong is going to be a welcome addition – it will ensure locals can access support closer to home, while also linking them to other vital services they may need to live their best life.”

NEW MENTAL HEALTH LOCAL A STEP CLOSER FOR DANDENONG

The Allan Labor Government is on track to deliver another nine Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals across Victoria, including in Dandenong, ensuring more people have access to walk-in mental health care and support, without the need for a GP referral. Following the opening of the first six sites in 2022, Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt today announced the providers selected to deliver these critical services for people aged 26 years and over, living with mental health or co-occurring alcohol and other drug concerns. Acting as a ‘front door’ to the mental health system and staffed by qualified mental health professionals, the Locals can be found in metropolitan and regional Victoria. Selected for their experience and expansive sector knowledge, the providers for the Dandenong site is Mind Australia, in partnership with Monash Health, The Victorian Foundation for Survivors of Torture Inc. and Thorne Harbour Health. Support is delivered in-person, telehealth, and via outreach services and a care plan is then designed to match patient goals and preferences – family, carers and supporters can also be involved pending patient permission. A flagship reform following the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, the Labor Government will deliver 50 Local Services across Victoria by the end of 2026. In the most recent Victorian Budget 2023/24, $67 million was invested to establish another three Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals across the state, with an additional $10 million to plan for another 20 locations. Since the Royal Commission handed down its final report, significant progress has been made with work underway to implement more than 90 per cent of recommendations and more than $6 billion invested in the system over the past three years – the largest investment in mental health in Victoria’s history. Quotes attributable to Member for Dandenong, Gabrielle Williams “It’s great to know that mental health care for people in Dandenong will soon be available in our own backyard. Community-focused mental health care means residents can access life-changing services right here, right now.” “A community-based mental health service in Dandenong is going to be a welcome addition – it will ensure locals can access support closer to home, while also linking them to other vital services they may need to live their best life.”

DANDENONG SPORTS SCORE NEW PAVILION

Dandenong’s newest sports pavilion will help even more footballers and cricketers take the field, thanks to support from the Victorian Government. Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams today joined City of Greater Dandenong Mayor, Cr Eden Foster, AFL Victoria, the St Mary’s Cricket Club and St Johns Old Collegians Football Club to officially open the WJ Crowe Pavilion, supported by $500,000 from the Victorian Government. Works at Thomas Carroll Reserve included demolishing the previous pavilion and replacing it with a modern, female friendly and accessible sporting facility. The pavilion includes new multipurpose social and meeting rooms. These are perfect for hosting club or community functions and will cement the new pavilion as a modern community sports hub in Dandenong. The pavilion now also offers four female friendly change rooms, two umpires’ change rooms, a timekeepers’ room, canteen and accessible public toilets. These upgrades mean that the Saints and Old Collegians can welcome more participants into their programs, offering them a home ground to get the most out of their game. The Victorian Budget 2023-24 is providing $213 million to deliver and improve community sports infrastructure and support initiatives that boost participation and inclusion in local sports clubs and organisations. It’s part of the more than $1.9 billion invested in community sport and active recreation infrastructure since 2014. Gabrielle Williams MP acknowledged Greater Dandenong City Council and AFL Victoria for their commitment and respective contributions of $5.4 million and $100,000 to the pavilion. New sports lighting is also on the way for the reserve’s eastern oval thanks to another Victorian Government investment of over $129,000. For more information about how the Victorian Government is funding community sport, visit sport.vic.gov.au/grants-and-funding. Quotes attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams “With the completion of the WJ Crowe Pavilion, we’re bringing two local clubs under one roof and making Thomas Carroll Reserve an exciting sporting hub for the community.” “These new facilities will mean the Saints and the Old Collegians can expand and develop their programs to get more people, particularly women and girls, in on the action.” “Facilities like these make it easier for Victorians to get involved, connect with others, and be active as they take part in community sport and recreation.”

DANDENONG SPORTS SCORE NEW PAVILION

Dandenong’s newest sports pavilion will help even more footballers and cricketers take the field, thanks to support from the Victorian Government. Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams today joined City of Greater Dandenong Mayor, Cr Eden Foster, AFL Victoria, the St Mary’s Cricket Club and St Johns Old Collegians Football Club to officially open the WJ Crowe Pavilion, supported by $500,000 from the Victorian Government. Works at Thomas Carroll Reserve included demolishing the previous pavilion and replacing it with a modern, female friendly and accessible sporting facility. The pavilion includes new multipurpose social and meeting rooms. These are perfect for hosting club or community functions and will cement the new pavilion as a modern community sports hub in Dandenong. The pavilion now also offers four female friendly change rooms, two umpires’ change rooms, a timekeepers’ room, canteen and accessible public toilets. These upgrades mean that the Saints and Old Collegians can welcome more participants into their programs, offering them a home ground to get the most out of their game. The Victorian Budget 2023-24 is providing $213 million to deliver and improve community sports infrastructure and support initiatives that boost participation and inclusion in local sports clubs and organisations. It’s part of the more than $1.9 billion invested in community sport and active recreation infrastructure since 2014. Gabrielle Williams MP acknowledged Greater Dandenong City Council and AFL Victoria for their commitment and respective contributions of $5.4 million and $100,000 to the pavilion. New sports lighting is also on the way for the reserve’s eastern oval thanks to another Victorian Government investment of over $129,000. For more information about how the Victorian Government is funding community sport, visit sport.vic.gov.au/grants-and-funding. Quotes attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams “With the completion of the WJ Crowe Pavilion, we’re bringing two local clubs under one roof and making Thomas Carroll Reserve an exciting sporting hub for the community.” “These new facilities will mean the Saints and the Old Collegians can expand and develop their programs to get more people, particularly women and girls, in on the action.” “Facilities like these make it easier for Victorians to get involved, connect with others, and be active as they take part in community sport and recreation.”

 

More Support on the way for Wellsprings for Women

The Andrews Labor Government is ensuring women of all cultural backgrounds experiencing family violence can access the help and support they need, with $788,000 in funding going to Wellsprings for Women to support women experiencing family violence in Melbourne's south east. The funding is part of a $117 million package to support victims of family and sexual violence and perpetrator intervention programs announced in the Victorian Budget 2023/24 and builds on the Labor Government’s record investment in the prevention of family violence. The funding increase to Wellsprings for Women will enable the organisation to continue supporting migrant, refugee, and asylum seeker women who are experiencing family violence. It builds on the funding the organisation received through the Supporting Multicultural and Faith Communities to Prevent Violence grant program. Last year, the Labor Government established a Multicultural Working Group to help improve family and sexual violence responses for multicultural communities, providing a state-wide platform for cross-sector dialogue between community leaders, multicultural, ethno-specific, faith-based community organisations, and specialist family and sexual violence organisations. This year’s Budget boost to Wellsprings for Women cements the organisation’s role in providing vital support in Melbourne’s south-east for multicultural women experiencing family violence. Victoria is leading the nation with its work to end family violence, having invested more than $3.7 billion since the Royal Commission into Family Violence – more than every other state and territory combined. Quotes attributable to Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Ros Spence “It’s critical that support is provided to women experiencing family violence, regardless of their culture or faith. This funding will enable Wellsprings for Women to continue this vital service to the community.” “The Andrews Labor Government recognises that women of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds often have different needs, and we’re here to support them.” Quote attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams “Wellsprings for Women is a fantastic local organisation, and this funding will enable it to continue its vital work in Melbourne’s south-east.”

More Support on the way for Wellsprings for Women

The Andrews Labor Government is ensuring women of all cultural backgrounds experiencing family violence can access the help and support they need, with $788,000 in funding going to Wellsprings for Women to support women experiencing family violence in Melbourne's south east. The funding is part of a $117 million package to support victims of family and sexual violence and perpetrator intervention programs announced in the Victorian Budget 2023/24 and builds on the Labor Government’s record investment in the prevention of family violence. The funding increase to Wellsprings for Women will enable the organisation to continue supporting migrant, refugee, and asylum seeker women who are experiencing family violence. It builds on the funding the organisation received through the Supporting Multicultural and Faith Communities to Prevent Violence grant program. Last year, the Labor Government established a Multicultural Working Group to help improve family and sexual violence responses for multicultural communities, providing a state-wide platform for cross-sector dialogue between community leaders, multicultural, ethno-specific, faith-based community organisations, and specialist family and sexual violence organisations. This year’s Budget boost to Wellsprings for Women cements the organisation’s role in providing vital support in Melbourne’s south-east for multicultural women experiencing family violence. Victoria is leading the nation with its work to end family violence, having invested more than $3.7 billion since the Royal Commission into Family Violence – more than every other state and territory combined. Quotes attributable to Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Ros Spence “It’s critical that support is provided to women experiencing family violence, regardless of their culture or faith. This funding will enable Wellsprings for Women to continue this vital service to the community.” “The Andrews Labor Government recognises that women of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds often have different needs, and we’re here to support them.” Quote attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams “Wellsprings for Women is a fantastic local organisation, and this funding will enable it to continue its vital work in Melbourne’s south-east.”

More VLocity Trains to be Made In Dandenong

The Andrews Labor Government is building more modern V/Line VLocity trains right here in Victoria – keeping passengers moving across the state and allowing more trains to run around regional Victoria, more often. Premier Daniel Andrews, Minister for Public Transport Ben Carroll joined Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams to visit the Alstom factory in Dandenong South – where a further 23 VLocity trains will be built, supporting around 500 local jobs. The extra VLocity trains form part of a $601 million investment in the Victorian Budget 2023/24 to improve capacity on Victoria’s busiest regional lines as regional Victoria grows, and to respond to demand for the Labor Government’s fair regional fares initiative – capping V/Line services at the same price as a daily metropolitan fare. The Labor Government is progressively rolling out the VLocity trains onto the network to replace V/Line’s older classic feet, providing passengers with a more modern, reliable and efficient journey. Each VLocity train has six accessible spaces per three-carriage set and includes comfortable seats for long-haul journeys, a dedicated storage area for bicycles and accessibility improvements. In a boost for those heading west, these VLocity trains will increase capacity on the Melton line – allowing nine-car train sets to run to boost capacity on the line by 50 per cent – as well as ensuring locals on the Geelong and Bacchus Marsh lines travel in comfort. There are already more than 100 VLocity trains in service – and works on this order will get underway at the factory next year, once the order of 12 VLocity trains from the Victorian Budget 22/23 is complete. All of our investments in rolling stock also support local maintenance jobs – with an additional 100 maintenance workers at Alstom Ballarat, who will maintain these new trains once they are on the network. The Labor Government is transforming the way Victorians travel across the state, with passengers already saving around $8 million since the introduction of the regional fare cap. Since 2014, the Labor Government has invested more than $9 billion into rolling stock and supporting infrastructure, supporting around 10,000 local jobs directly and throughout the supply chain. Quote attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews “We promised to build new VLocity trains in Victoria, for Victorians, and that’s exactly what we’re doing – making it easier for passengers to travel across our state, as well as supporting hundreds of local jobs and strengthening our economy.” Quote attributable to Minister for Public Transport Ben Carroll “We’re continuing to make critical public transport investments where they’re needed most – building these 23 new VLocity trains will not only keep Victorians moving, but also back local jobs.” Quote attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams “A boost for local manufacturing means a boost for local jobs. And that’s what we’ve delivered with an order of more V-Locity trains from Alstom, made right here in Dandenong. This investment supports 500 local jobs, and a great product for Victorian commuters.”

More VLocity Trains to be Made In Dandenong

The Andrews Labor Government is building more modern V/Line VLocity trains right here in Victoria – keeping passengers moving across the state and allowing more trains to run around regional Victoria, more often. Premier Daniel Andrews, Minister for Public Transport Ben Carroll joined Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams to visit the Alstom factory in Dandenong South – where a further 23 VLocity trains will be built, supporting around 500 local jobs. The extra VLocity trains form part of a $601 million investment in the Victorian Budget 2023/24 to improve capacity on Victoria’s busiest regional lines as regional Victoria grows, and to respond to demand for the Labor Government’s fair regional fares initiative – capping V/Line services at the same price as a daily metropolitan fare. The Labor Government is progressively rolling out the VLocity trains onto the network to replace V/Line’s older classic feet, providing passengers with a more modern, reliable and efficient journey. Each VLocity train has six accessible spaces per three-carriage set and includes comfortable seats for long-haul journeys, a dedicated storage area for bicycles and accessibility improvements. In a boost for those heading west, these VLocity trains will increase capacity on the Melton line – allowing nine-car train sets to run to boost capacity on the line by 50 per cent – as well as ensuring locals on the Geelong and Bacchus Marsh lines travel in comfort. There are already more than 100 VLocity trains in service – and works on this order will get underway at the factory next year, once the order of 12 VLocity trains from the Victorian Budget 22/23 is complete. All of our investments in rolling stock also support local maintenance jobs – with an additional 100 maintenance workers at Alstom Ballarat, who will maintain these new trains once they are on the network. The Labor Government is transforming the way Victorians travel across the state, with passengers already saving around $8 million since the introduction of the regional fare cap. Since 2014, the Labor Government has invested more than $9 billion into rolling stock and supporting infrastructure, supporting around 10,000 local jobs directly and throughout the supply chain. Quote attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews “We promised to build new VLocity trains in Victoria, for Victorians, and that’s exactly what we’re doing – making it easier for passengers to travel across our state, as well as supporting hundreds of local jobs and strengthening our economy.” Quote attributable to Minister for Public Transport Ben Carroll “We’re continuing to make critical public transport investments where they’re needed most – building these 23 new VLocity trains will not only keep Victorians moving, but also back local jobs.” Quote attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams “A boost for local manufacturing means a boost for local jobs. And that’s what we’ve delivered with an order of more V-Locity trains from Alstom, made right here in Dandenong. This investment supports 500 local jobs, and a great product for Victorian commuters.”

BUDGET 2023-2024: DOING WHAT MATTERS FOR DANDENONG

The Andrews Labor Government is getting on with delivering on its election promises for our community - investing in what matters for the people of Dandenong.     We haven’t wasted a day delivering the services and projects that matter to Victorians. With the Victorian Budget 2023/24, we’re getting on with doing what we said we’d do.     Every Victorian should be able to get the healthcare they need, when they need it, close to home. That’s why we’re investing in an upgrade to the Dandenong Hospital.   This Budget will get started on service and capital planning and early works, to ensure the new and upgraded facilities meet the needs of our growing south eastern suburbs.  Victorians remember the State Electricity Commission (SEC): it meant a fair deal on your power prices and good, stable jobs for workers.       That’s why we’re bringing it back – to drive down power bills and create thousands of jobs in renewable, government-owned energy.       An initial $1 billion investment in the SEC will help deliver 4.5 gigawatts of power – the equivalent replacement capacity of Loy Yang A – through renewable energy projects.      Bringing back the SEC won’t just mean more renewable energy, lower power bills and reduced carbon emissions – it’ll also help create 59,000 jobs.   As part of a more than $2 billion investment in schools across Victoria, this year’s Budget includes $116 million to open six new cutting-edge Tech Schools, including one in Dandenong.   We know many apprentices scrimp and save as they start out in their careers. But when you rely on your vehicle to do your job every day, costs can quickly add up. We’ll ease the cost of living pressure for our hard-working apprentices, making rego free – saving eligible trade apprentices up to $865 every year.  With 90 per cent of a child’s brain developing before the age of five, early education has the most profound impact on how our kids develop.   That’s why we’re delivering Free Kinder for three and four-year-olds, establishing Pre-Prep, and upgrading or providing new equipment to kinders across the state to make sure Victorian kids can get the best start for the best life.  We’ll give more families across Victoria access to local, affordable childcare – investing to establish the first of 50 government-owned and operated, affordable integrated childcare centres, which will open in 2025.  Women and girls make up half more than half of our population – but for too long, their healthcare concerns have been seen as a niche issue.   We’ll invest more than $153 million to establish 20 new women’s health clinics, an Aboriginal-led clinic and a mobile health clinic, nine new women’s sexual and reproductive health hubs, scholarships to expand the women’s health workforce, an inquiry into women’s pain management and 10,800 extra laparoscopy surgeries.  CFA volunteers work hard to keep our community safe. We’ll make sure they have the facilities and equipment they need to stay safe, too. We’re investing in planning for an upgrade of Keysborough Fire Station so our hardworking volunteers can continue keeping Victorians safe.  We’ll keep backing the successful Noble Park Suburban Revitalisation program, building on previous funding that has already seen improvements to the Noble Park Community Centre, better lighting and public seating, tree planting and the popular “Noble Park Big Day Out” festival.  Community events like the Tamil Festival Australia help Tamil Victorians stay connected to their culture, traditions and heritage. We’ll support the Tamil Festival with an investment of $100,000 per year for the next four years.  Every community deserves great spaces to come together to celebrate and share in culture and tradition. We promised to build, upgrade and renovate community infrastructure and we’re doing just that right across Dandenong and the South-East, including:  $400,000 towards the establishment an Albanian Community Centre in the South East  $250,000 towards the upgrade of the Antiochian Community Support Association’s community kitchen  $750,000 for upgrades to the Victorian Tamil Association community centre and carpark   We’re also investing $5 million towards two Indian community centres – one in the western suburbs and the other right here in the South-East.  We’ll keep backing the community organisations that provide care, support and services to help Victorians when they need it the most.   Locals know what a massive contribution groups like South-East Community Links and Community Abundance make to our community, and we’re backing each with $100,000 grants.  These are the things that matter – and the things we promised to Victorians.   And with this Budget, we’re getting on with delivering every election commitment we made at the last election.   Quotes attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams   “Our South Eastern suburbs are booming, and our local hospitals need to keep pace. The commencement of Dandenong Hospital Upgrades is the first step to ensuring locals get the quality care they need, closer to home.” 

BUDGET 2023-2024: DOING WHAT MATTERS FOR DANDENONG

The Andrews Labor Government is getting on with delivering on its election promises for our community - investing in what matters for the people of Dandenong.     We haven’t wasted a day delivering the services and projects that matter to Victorians. With the Victorian Budget 2023/24, we’re getting on with doing what we said we’d do.     Every Victorian should be able to get the healthcare they need, when they need it, close to home. That’s why we’re investing in an upgrade to the Dandenong Hospital.   This Budget will get started on service and capital planning and early works, to ensure the new and upgraded facilities meet the needs of our growing south eastern suburbs.  Victorians remember the State Electricity Commission (SEC): it meant a fair deal on your power prices and good, stable jobs for workers.       That’s why we’re bringing it back – to drive down power bills and create thousands of jobs in renewable, government-owned energy.       An initial $1 billion investment in the SEC will help deliver 4.5 gigawatts of power – the equivalent replacement capacity of Loy Yang A – through renewable energy projects.      Bringing back the SEC won’t just mean more renewable energy, lower power bills and reduced carbon emissions – it’ll also help create 59,000 jobs.   As part of a more than $2 billion investment in schools across Victoria, this year’s Budget includes $116 million to open six new cutting-edge Tech Schools, including one in Dandenong.   We know many apprentices scrimp and save as they start out in their careers. But when you rely on your vehicle to do your job every day, costs can quickly add up. We’ll ease the cost of living pressure for our hard-working apprentices, making rego free – saving eligible trade apprentices up to $865 every year.  With 90 per cent of a child’s brain developing before the age of five, early education has the most profound impact on how our kids develop.   That’s why we’re delivering Free Kinder for three and four-year-olds, establishing Pre-Prep, and upgrading or providing new equipment to kinders across the state to make sure Victorian kids can get the best start for the best life.  We’ll give more families across Victoria access to local, affordable childcare – investing to establish the first of 50 government-owned and operated, affordable integrated childcare centres, which will open in 2025.  Women and girls make up half more than half of our population – but for too long, their healthcare concerns have been seen as a niche issue.   We’ll invest more than $153 million to establish 20 new women’s health clinics, an Aboriginal-led clinic and a mobile health clinic, nine new women’s sexual and reproductive health hubs, scholarships to expand the women’s health workforce, an inquiry into women’s pain management and 10,800 extra laparoscopy surgeries.  CFA volunteers work hard to keep our community safe. We’ll make sure they have the facilities and equipment they need to stay safe, too. We’re investing in planning for an upgrade of Keysborough Fire Station so our hardworking volunteers can continue keeping Victorians safe.  We’ll keep backing the successful Noble Park Suburban Revitalisation program, building on previous funding that has already seen improvements to the Noble Park Community Centre, better lighting and public seating, tree planting and the popular “Noble Park Big Day Out” festival.  Community events like the Tamil Festival Australia help Tamil Victorians stay connected to their culture, traditions and heritage. We’ll support the Tamil Festival with an investment of $100,000 per year for the next four years.  Every community deserves great spaces to come together to celebrate and share in culture and tradition. We promised to build, upgrade and renovate community infrastructure and we’re doing just that right across Dandenong and the South-East, including:  $400,000 towards the establishment an Albanian Community Centre in the South East  $250,000 towards the upgrade of the Antiochian Community Support Association’s community kitchen  $750,000 for upgrades to the Victorian Tamil Association community centre and carpark   We’re also investing $5 million towards two Indian community centres – one in the western suburbs and the other right here in the South-East.  We’ll keep backing the community organisations that provide care, support and services to help Victorians when they need it the most.   Locals know what a massive contribution groups like South-East Community Links and Community Abundance make to our community, and we’re backing each with $100,000 grants.  These are the things that matter – and the things we promised to Victorians.   And with this Budget, we’re getting on with delivering every election commitment we made at the last election.   Quotes attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams   “Our South Eastern suburbs are booming, and our local hospitals need to keep pace. The commencement of Dandenong Hospital Upgrades is the first step to ensuring locals get the quality care they need, closer to home.” 

BETTER COMMUNITY SPACES FOR ALBANIAN VICTORIANS

A re-elected Andrews Labor Government will deliver better spaces for multicultural and multifaith communities in Victoria with a new fund to upgrade, renovate and build community facilities. Victorians come from more than 200 countries, speak 260 languages and follow 135 different faiths. Nearly half of all Victorians were born overseas, or have a parent who was born overseas. It doesn’t matter where you’re from, what you look like, what you believe or what language you speak – in Victoria, we’re proud of our cultural diversity. For many Victorians from multicultural and multifaith backgrounds, community groups offer important connections to their culture and heritage. These groups deserve the best possible community spaces to celebrate and share their culture and traditions. That’s why a re-elected Labor Government will deliver a $50 million investment to build, upgrade and renovate new community infrastructure for multicultural and multifaith communities. This will include $5 million for an Islamic Community Infrastructure Program, helping to make this proud community even stronger. Under the program, $400,000 will be invested to support the establishment of a new Albanian Cultural Centre at the Albanian Islamic Centre Mosque in Dandenong. Labor’s investements will ensure community upgrades large and small can be delivered in every corner of our state, inlcuding supporting Albanian Victorians, wherever they live. Labor is backing Victoria’s multicultural communities – not just with words, but with action. Matthew Guy’s Liberals only care about multicultural communities in an election year – you can’t trust them to stand with multicultural and multifaith communities in the face of rising extremism and racism. Only Labor will support our many diverse communities and promote a vibrant multicultural society – because only Labor will do what matters. Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews “Every community deserves great spaces to come together to celebrate and share in culture and tradition. Our Albanian community is no different and this investment will make sure Albanian Victorians remain strong and connected.” “Labor is doing what matters – supporting our multicultural and multifaith communities and celebrating diversity in our state.” Quote attributable to Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence “Only Labor is doing what matters. We have a proud of record supporting multicultural and multifaith communities – and a plan to keep backing them well into the future. Quotes attributable to Labor Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams “Only a Labor Government will deliver for the Albanian community in Dandenong. This investment reinforces our commitment to support a strong and vibrant multicultural and multifaith Victoria.”

BETTER COMMUNITY SPACES FOR ALBANIAN VICTORIANS

A re-elected Andrews Labor Government will deliver better spaces for multicultural and multifaith communities in Victoria with a new fund to upgrade, renovate and build community facilities. Victorians come from more than 200 countries, speak 260 languages and follow 135 different faiths. Nearly half of all Victorians were born overseas, or have a parent who was born overseas. It doesn’t matter where you’re from, what you look like, what you believe or what language you speak – in Victoria, we’re proud of our cultural diversity. For many Victorians from multicultural and multifaith backgrounds, community groups offer important connections to their culture and heritage. These groups deserve the best possible community spaces to celebrate and share their culture and traditions. That’s why a re-elected Labor Government will deliver a $50 million investment to build, upgrade and renovate new community infrastructure for multicultural and multifaith communities. This will include $5 million for an Islamic Community Infrastructure Program, helping to make this proud community even stronger. Under the program, $400,000 will be invested to support the establishment of a new Albanian Cultural Centre at the Albanian Islamic Centre Mosque in Dandenong. Labor’s investements will ensure community upgrades large and small can be delivered in every corner of our state, inlcuding supporting Albanian Victorians, wherever they live. Labor is backing Victoria’s multicultural communities – not just with words, but with action. Matthew Guy’s Liberals only care about multicultural communities in an election year – you can’t trust them to stand with multicultural and multifaith communities in the face of rising extremism and racism. Only Labor will support our many diverse communities and promote a vibrant multicultural society – because only Labor will do what matters. Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews “Every community deserves great spaces to come together to celebrate and share in culture and tradition. Our Albanian community is no different and this investment will make sure Albanian Victorians remain strong and connected.” “Labor is doing what matters – supporting our multicultural and multifaith communities and celebrating diversity in our state.” Quote attributable to Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence “Only Labor is doing what matters. We have a proud of record supporting multicultural and multifaith communities – and a plan to keep backing them well into the future. Quotes attributable to Labor Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams “Only a Labor Government will deliver for the Albanian community in Dandenong. This investment reinforces our commitment to support a strong and vibrant multicultural and multifaith Victoria.”