BENDIGO can expect a state budget that builds up communities, supports jobs and looks after families according to the region's members of parliament.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Victoria's 2020-21 budget will be released on Tuesday November 24, after it was delayed from March by COVID-19.
Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan said the government's focus was on supporting communities to restore themselves and building for the future.
Ms Allan said the budget would put in place policies and programs to support secure and decent jobs that helped build up services, particularly in the health and community sectors.
She said the budget aimed to look after families and build back strong and connected communities after a tough year.
Ms Allan said this was particularly true for regional Victoria, which had been hit hard by bushfires then the pandemic, devastating tourism and hospitality.
Schools in central Victoria have already racked up more than $16 million worth of funding.
Elmore Primary School received nearly $1.2 million for upgrades, Maiden Gully Primary School $4.59 and Kyneton High School $10.99.
A $10 billion airport rail line, free kindergarten in 2021, $5.3 billion for social housing and $868.8 million to reform the mental health system are among budget measures already announced.
A $797 energy efficiency package to help Victorians pay for power bills and improve efficiency in rentals has also been flagged.
Announced on Saturday, federal and state governments have touted the benefits of the airport rail line for regional Victoria.
Other news:
Ms Allan said an interchange at the hub for regional rail lines at Sunshine. Melbourne, would mean Bendigo-line residents were only one interchange away from Melbourne airport.
She said the link made Bendigo more attractive for people thinking of relocating, especially if their work required travel.
Ms Allan said the rest of the world would have easier access to Bendigo with the link, supporting jobs in the community.
Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards said Bendigo residents would feel support in the budget from statewide announcements, such as mental health measures, free kinder and energy rebates
"These are all savings measures to take the pressure off families and individuals and businesses," Ms Edwards said.
"We know that there's been a huge impact on many people from COVID-19, this budget will be all about recovery.
"It will be all about jobs and supporting businesses and families as we move towards a COVID-normal and into recovery."
Have you signed up to the Bendigo Advertiser's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in central Victoria.