Sheed liaising with Ministers during Coronavirus

As the Coronavirus Pandemic unfolds, Independent Member for Shepparton District Suzanna Sheed has been liaising closely with ministers in the Victorian Government advocating for her electorate and the wider regional community.

“These are extraordinary times due to Stage Three Measures and I would like to thank the many ministers for making themselves available on a regular basis to hear my concerns and those of my electorate,” Ms Sheed said.

“Some of our discussions have involved broad areas of advocacy, such as the need to roll out extra online digital tools with Education Minister James Merlino or the pressing issue of family violence, especially for those women experiencing homelessness, with Minister Gabrielle Williams.

“Other communications have included the Treasurer Tim Pallas and the many important projects that have had their funding announcements potentially postponed due to the delayed budget including the Shepparton-Mooroopna Bypass and Greater Shepparton Secondary College’s new campus.”

The plight of regional media during the Coronavirus Pandemic was brought to the attention of Premier Andrews in March and the subsequent $4.7 million assistance package announced in April was timely and well received, according to Ms Sheed.

“My office has also been receiving many individual representations from the community and we have been passing on those concerns to the ministry where appropriate,” Ms Sheed said.

“Last month the Goulburn Valley Aero Club voiced concerns Stage Three Restrictions may prevent necessary maintenance flights and this matter has been brought to the attention of the Premier.

“This is a challenging time and the necessary rules for keeping us all safe and helping to overcome the Coronavirus Pandemic have meant my office is busier than ever as many of my constituents raise their concerns and I would like to reassure my community that the business of government continues.

“These are very unusual circumstances and I commend the premier and cabinet for making themselves regularly available to local members to listen, to take on board any worthwhile suggestions and to respond as needed.”

ENDS

Media contact

Myles Peterson 0467 035 840│myles.peterson@parliament.vic.gov.au

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