Steve Whan
Member for Monaro
MEDIA RELEASE
Fast growing Googong gets bigger school in a budget that focuses on providing the services we need
Wednesday, 19 June 2024
Families in Googong are among the local winners in a Minns Labor Government budget focused on better services.
Member for Monaro Steve Whan said "I'm thrilled that even in an incredibly tight and difficult budget the Labor priorities I have outlined for Monaro are coming through.
"Googong is our fastest growing area and the demand for public schooling is also quickly growing. This budget has committed to the construction of Stage Two of Googong Public School.
"Our election commitment of building a High School at Googong is also progressing with $5.4 million allocated this year toward a project that will be completed and open in term one 2027. $10.8 million will be spent on Jerrabomberra High School State 2 this year. The troubled Bungendore High project has funding allocated but there are still issues to resolve.
"There is also huge news for Monaro residents concerned about affordability and access to GP services. This budget includes a clear tax incentive for GP clinics to offer Bulk Billing.
"The previous Government failed to address a court decision that made GP clinics liable for payroll tax. Labor has decided that will rebate tax for all regional GP clinics that bulk bill at least 70% of services.
"I made providing services the core part off my election commitment to the people of Monaro and it is exciting to see this Budget restating our commitment to the things that put the essential workers in our public service.
"Safe staffing levels for hospitals will gradually roll out, pay rates for teachers and ambulance paramedics are now competitive and we are seeing strong commitments to key worker accommodation. It all combines to overcome the massive staffing shortages left by the Nationals - shortages that directly impacted the quality of local health and education.
"I also welcome the face that this budget allocated $2.3 million over the next year to upgrade and maintain neglected social housing. Like many Queanbeyan residents it appals me to see the number of poorly maintained or boarded up vacant Government owned properties, another indictment of the priorities of the former Nationals members."
