The Premier must provide clarity on legacy projects promised for northern Victoria amid revelations Victoria taxpayers will pay $200 million so Scotland can host the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad raised the issue in Parliament saying it was high time more detail was provided on the Bendigo projects.
The much-hyped Games were cancelled in July last year by the then Minister for Commonwealth Games Delivery – and now Premier – Jacinta Allan.
“The government had allocated $2.6 billion to deliver the games. Nearly $600 million of taxpayer funds were wasted along with the irreparable damage to Victoria’s international reputation,” Ms Broad said.
“Regional communities, sporting groups, businesses, tourism groups and schools were left devastated at the loss of the games and the promised benefit to the local communities. Instead, they were promised a range of legacy projects focusing on sporting infrastructure and housing.
“Regional communities are still waiting to see any concrete outcomes from these promises.
“In Bendigo promised projects included an expansion of the Bendigo stadium, along with upgrades to the lighting of the outdoor netball courts, new solar panels, improvements to accessibility and the car park; four refurbished bowling greens and an upgrade to the clubhouse at the historic Bendigo Bowls Club; two refurbished croquet courts at the Bendigo Croquet Club; an upgrade of the Bendigo showgrounds, including a new pavilion, redevelopment of the arena and upgrades to fencing and entrances; and a major social housing project in Osborne Street in Flora Hill.
“I understand that some of the sporting groups are currently working with the City of Greater Bendigo in a bid to have these projects completed; however, some expect the construction will not start for about 12 months. This is despite the government’s own website assuring us that construction on these projects is set to begin in mid-2024.”
Ms Broad said transparency is important, and taxpayers deserved to see how their money was being spent.
“I urge the Premier to provide a detailed overview of each of the Bendigo projects and their current status, along with details of the budget allocations to cover them, plans and timelines for completion.
“The cancellation of the Commonwealth Games is just another example that the Labor State Government cannot manage money and cannot manage events, and Victorians are paying the price.”
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au
