Cost of Living

Local Government should be there to help when times are tough. I want to make sure that it is.

Over the past four years, inflation has been out of control. While it is nice to hear that it seems to be shrinking, that doesn’t mean much until you can afford to do your grocery shopping like you used to.

I believe councils should be helping those doing it tough. Some ideas to help move in that direction include:

• Advocating at State and Federal Government.
  Unfortunately, councils don’t build social and affordable housing on their own. They can however, advocate for their region, and with Bendigo expected to grow by 50,000 residents in the next twenty years, we need that advocacy.

• Liaise with stakeholders to direct help where it is needed.
  There are a lot of individuals and organisations in Bendigo wanting to help those in need. Having one, unified direction will allow those of greatest need to get the help they require to get back on their feet.

• Promote Ratepayer Education.
  Did you know that the City of Greater Bendigo has avenues of assistance for those who are experiencing financial hardship? To help lessen the load of rates when times are tough, I believe that every ratepayer should be aware of programs like these which is why I’m pushing for better education from council to ratepayers.