A Shorten Labor Government will fund comprehensive flood mitigation works in Latrobe, protecting every single house in the township from future floods.
The 2016 Tasmanian floods caused $180 million in damage – devastating many communities including Latrobe.
Labor’s $3.4 million investment will mean that locals will no longer need to sandbag in extreme weather or worry about flash flooding, protecting 70 houses and 73 businesses in Latrobe. Labor’s funding will go towards the installation of a series of flood barriers totalling 1.85km, modification of the Victor St bridge, and improved drainage in the area.
“In 2016 I visited Latrobe in the immediate aftermath of the devastating floods, seeing first-hand the impact on the community – the loss of property, businesses, livestock and livelihoods,” said Leader of the Opposition Bill Shorten.
“But I also saw the spirit in this region – a spirit which has enabled Latrobe to band together and support each other over the past two years of rebuilding.
“But the community can’t do it alone – it needs government investment to protect from the same situation happening again. That’s why I’m so pleased to be here making this commitment today.
“This is an investment in Latrobe, in the community, and in their future – we want to give the region the best chance to grow.”
Labor candidate for Braddon, Justine Keay, said that she was disappointed the Turnbull Government hadn’t put a dollar into flood mitigation in the region.
“Malcolm Turnbull promised funding for flood mitigation in Latrobe during the 2016 election, but he hasn’t put a dollar on the table and work is yet to start,” Ms Keay said.
“Mr Turnbull and Mr Whiteley came to Tasmania, met locals and posed for pictures, but they’ve abandoned us since. They only care about floods when it suits them.
“We’ve got a final report into the 2016 floods that clearly says Latrobe needs flood mitigation work for the future – Labor is acting to give Latrobe residents the certainty they need.
“Now it’s time for the Hodgman State Government to come to the table – with this funding from Federal Labor, the State Government must commit the remaining $1.07 million to deliver the project in full.”
Brett Whiteley is a former banker who cares more about giving the banks a big tax handout than he cares about fighting for the local community – Braddon needs a local champion fighting against Turnbull’s cuts, and that’s why they need Justine Keay.
Only Bill Shorten and Justine Keay are fighting for a Fair Go for the North West and West Coasts.
SUNDAY, 17 JUNE 2018
