Judy Hannan MP has welcomed the budget expenditures that highlight the needs of families, women, commuters and the vulnerable in our community. With the rising cost of living a day-to-day reality faced by most, the funding of preschools, energy bill relief, renting and housing allocations and toll relief will have wide ranging impacts; while funding for victims of sexual assault acknowledges the need for services and support in this area.
“Along with the $769.3 million for new preschools on public school sites and a further $60 million for upgrades, the $1.6 billion preschool fee relief for both community, mobile preschools and long day care preschools will provide opportunities to those in Wollondilly who may not have otherwise been able to attend early childhood education. This allocation could see between $500 and $4220 per year per child in fee relief, and has the run-on impact of giving more women the opportunity to return to the paid workforce sooner” said Judy Hannan MP.
“The new Wilton Junction Primary School will be accompanied by an adjacent community preschool, and I am pleased to see the government taking the education needs of this fast growing area of Sydney seriously.”
“Recognising the importance for children’s physical and mental well-being through physical activity, the means-tested Active and Creative Kids vouchers have been permanently funded, which will help with cost of living for families. However, the First Lap swimming vouchers have been removed. Given the importance of children learning to swim, especially as we begin to access the many beautiful swimming spots in Wollondilly, I intend to take this matter up with the Minister” said Judy Hannan MP.
“The budget supports many with the increasing electricity costs with the National Energy Bill Relief Fund. $481 million of funding will translate into up to $500 of real savings for eligible households and up to $650 for small businesses.”
“The pressures experienced by renters in availability and affordability of reliable rental properties have been acknowledged in this budget, with the government committing to work with the NSW Rental Commissioner to make much needed changes to renting in NSW. With nearly half of renters in Wollondilly spending more than 30% of their household income on rent, I welcome changes to make renting more affordable and secure.”
“Measures to improve housing affordability and access to home ownership include a $224.0 million Essential Housing Package to accelerate the delivery of various homes and support services, an expansion of around 1,500 social housing units through a $610.1 million allocation, and $300.0 million in reinvested dividends to enable the construction of 1,409 affordable homes and 3,288 market homes by 2039-40 by Landcom. With the growth areas of Wilton and Appin in Wollondilly, we are going to see our fair share of these government funded houses, many for essential workers who live and work in our community. I am keen to hear from the Minister for Planning the plans for the infrastructure that will accommodate these new houses, and the environmental priority of conserving koala habitat.”
“The allocation of $39.1 million in funding to prevent domestic, family and sexual violence and support victim safety is a crucial step forward in addressing these issues. This funding will allow organisations and initiatives to provide the essential support, resources and education to combat sexual assault effectively. It underscores a commitment to creating safer communities and ensuring survivors receive the help they need.”
“Particularly advantageous for residents of Wollondilly who commute is the Toll Relief, with its cap of $60 per week. This is a great thing for those travelling to the city and other areas accessible only by tolled roads.”
“Across housing, tolls, early childhood education and energy rebates residents in Wollondilly should see changes to the cost of living thanks to today’s budget. I will prioritise advocating for the needs of my constituents and look forward to continuing to work with the Government to reduce the cost of living, and accessibility to support programs to the vulnerable in our communities.”
“Overall the budget recognises the cost of living pressures and the needs of our community but there is much more work to be done.”
Media: [email protected] or Benn Banasik 0434 832 636