The need
Growth areas like Cardinia Shire are home to lower total populations, fewer businesses, and less amenities than more established local government areas. At the same time, they are dealing with the highest rates of population growth in the country and host new and rapidly expanding suburbs.
This situation means that growth area councils have a lower revenue base but a much higher level of demand for new roads, parks, sporting facilities, and other amenities. These projects have only become more expensive as construction costs have outpaced the Consumer Price Index in recent years.
In order for Council to ensure that new and existing residents have the same quality of life as their peers in neighbouring local government areas, additional external investment is needed. Without it, the divide between inner and outer suburbs will only grow.
The plan
Council is seeking an increase in funding streams and opportunities from all levels of government that recognise the high costs and demand for infrastructure investment in growth areas.
Nationwide, there is a shortage of investment in our fastest-growing suburbs due to a lack of adequate funding and residents in Cardinia Shire are paying the price. Funds that are dedicated exclusively to growth area infrastructure are urgently needed to rectify this.
Benefits to the community
Currently, Council is splitting our limited financial resources between an extensive infrastructure pipeline and ongoing costs of operating amenities and services. Without further assistance dedicated to growth areas, one or both of these spending streams will need to be cut back. Either way, the community will suffer.
Conversely, an increase in growth area funding would allow Council to invest in the infrastructure that our growing population needs whilst also maintaining the level of service that residents expect from their council. This is particularly essential as there are few charities and non-profit groups operation in the area and Council has a role to play in filling this gap.
