After 12 years of Labor, Northern Victoria is still being shortchanged in the latest State Budget, The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad said today.
“The Allan Labor Government’s 2026/27 Budget shows debt continuing to surge towards $200 billion, with more than $1 million an hour spent on interest,” Ms Broad said.
“This budget demonstrates that Labor cannot manage money, with higher taxes, higher debt and higher interest repayments.”
“Labor has lost control of the state’s finances. As more of the budget is swallowed by a spiralling interest bill, less funding is going towards much needed services.
“In Bendigo and across Northern Victoria, the impact is clear. Crumbling roads, rising housing costs driven by higher property taxes, and increased crime are all of concern to local residents.
“Yet this budget fails to address any of these challenges.”
Ms Broad said key measures revealed the neglect:
- Cuts to agriculture (down 4.7%) and regional development (down 7.6%)
- A $6.8 billion emergency services tax hitting regional Victorians hardest, with little return for local CFA support
- Continued claims of “record road maintenance” while conditions worsen on rural and regional roads.
The budget also confirmed that since 2014:
- Net debt has increased from $21.8 billion to $199.3 billion in 2029-30.
- Interest repayments have increased from $2.1 billion to $11.8 billion in 2029-30.
- Total tax revenue has increased from $17.9 billion to $50.2 billion in 2029-30.
Ms Broad said the budget proved regional communities were being left behind, while big spending projects were underway in Melbourne.
“Regional Victoria has 25 per cent of the state’s population and we should receive a fair share of the budget,” Ms Broad said.
“Every week I hear from families who are under increasing pressure and this budget does little to help our regional communities.”
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au
