Water, housing, employment: G21’s three priorities for Geelong
With a federal election looming in May, the region’s peak alliance has laid down their three priorities for funding from Canberra. See what they were.
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Housing has been identified as a key priority by city leaders to help Geelong through a “critical moment in time”.
Ahead of May’s federal election, Geelong Region Alliance (G21) leaders identified housing as one of three key priorities to attain funding for, alongside water security and the Avalon Employment precinct.
According to G21, a $150m investment in central Geelong is required to unlock more than $1b in potential private sector investment.
G21 chief executive Giulia Baggio said the region’s growth justified the investment requirement.
“This is the fastest growing region in Victoria and Geelong is one of the fastest growing cities in Australia,” Ms Baggio said.
“We need major investment from Canberra to keep pace with our communities.
“We call on all federal representatives to work with us during this election period to help deliver the funding and partnership needed to lock in decent living standards for the long term.”
Committee for Geelong chief executive Micheal Johnston said all three priorities were essential for the region.
“It’s no secret that housing supply is urgently needed and delivering more affordable living options in Geelong’s city centre is essential to boosting our supply,” he said.
“Increasing our housing supply in the city centre is also how we create a city where more of our population growth is happening in the city – which will have immense flow on benefits for business, hospitality and retail activity.
“Equally, water security is an issue that will impact us all in the coming years, and an alternative water grid will ensure water is accessible and sustainable for future generations.
“The Avalon employment precinct and airport needs major infrastructure upgrades to attract investment and reach its potential as a global gateway to our region.”
Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said he was “determined to lead a united voice to Canberra on behalf of Geelong and the wider G21 region”.
“Our city and region have incredible untapped potential, and major government investment in our CBD, Avalon Airport and water infrastructure will drive industry growth and create crucial economic opportunities for future generations,” he said.
“We will continue leading the Geelong region’s advocacy efforts over the coming weeks as federal candidates seek support from voters in the lead up to the election.”
G21 is the formal alliance of government, business and community organisations working together to improve the lives of people within the Geelong region across five municipalities – Colac Otway, Golden Plains, Greater Geelong, Queenscliffe and Surf Coast.
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Originally published as Water, housing, employment: G21’s three priorities for Geelong
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