Minister for Housing comes to Shepparton

Minister Foley Announcements

I was pleased to join Minister for Housing Martin Foley in Shepparton last week for three special announcements.

First was the official opening of the city’s Youth Foyer.  This is a particularly special place, which will be an asset to the young community, as they strive to finish their education. 

The Minister and I also stopped at Rural Housing, where met with a victim of domestic violence.  She discussed the importance to her of stable housing when attempting to leave a violent relationship.  Meanwhile, six properties for Shepparton have been funded under the Rapid Housing Program, as part of the Royal Commission into Family Violence.

We were greeted by plenty of smiling happy faces, as we saw the youngest of Shepparton’s Black Eagles basketball team in action.  The club, along with the Greater Shepparton City Council, and Moira Shire have received Ice Action grants to deliver workshops, forums, local campaigns, training and engagement with young people.

GV Health update

I have now met with both the Chief Psychiatrist and the Chief Medical Officer regarding the respective inquiries into the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service, and Goulburn Valley Health.

Both acknowledged the concerns which have been raised, and I am pleased with the immediate government response after I raised it in Parliament on August 30.

Action has already been taken at the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service to ensure there is adequate staffing, and that all staff are aware of patient and community concerns.

Meanwhile, I had a productive discussion with the Chief Medical Officer regarding a number the issues raised with me by constituents about many aspects of the operations at Goulburn Valley Health.

Basin Plan study tabled

The draft socio economic study into the impact of the Murray Darling Basin Plan has been tabled at the Goulburn Murray Irrigation District Leadership Forum this week.

It’s a strong document which will help in a campaign for fairer water policy.

The draft will be launched at the group’s second Water Summit in coming weeks.