With just one year to go until the next state election, regional Victorians are feeling left out and neglected by the Allan Labor Government, Nationals MPs said today.
The Deputy Leader of The Nationals Emma Kealy and The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad joined forces outside the Premier’s Bendigo office to highlight key issues facing the regions.
Ms Kealy said after 11 years of Labor, it was clear the government was focused on Melbourne.
“We are hearing that people are struggling with the cost of living; there are major problems with housing; health services are being centralised; and crime is on the rise,” Ms Kealy said.
“The unpopular emergency services tax is hurting CFA volunteers and they are driving old trucks which are unreliable and putting their lives at risk. The VicGrid legislation has taken away farmers’ rights to say what happens on their land. Our roads are falling apart.
“Eleven years of Labor Government has not been good for Bendigo or regional Victoria.”
Ms Broad said: The next state election is now only one year away and it’s game on in Bendigo. Local residents want to see change.”
“Crime is on the rise, and the personal stories are very disturbing. One family had their house broken into three times, and family members were attacked.
“I have spoken with a dad who is living in a car with his three children,” Ms Broad said.
“Just 12 per cent of new infrastructure funding comes to the regions, but we have 25 per cent of the population.
“This government is very Melbourne-focused, and we need a government that will govern for the whole of Victoria.”
Ms Kealy and Ms Broad said The Nationals will continue to stand up for regional Victoria and offer a strong alternative at the next election.
Victorians go to the polls on November 28, 2026.
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au
