Peninsula priorities on notice for Ministers, decision-makers in capital

The Committee for Frankston & Mornington Peninsula (CFMP) led a local delegation to Federal Parliament this week to advocate for support, funding and clarity around election commitments for our region.

Joining Committee CEO Josh Sinclair were Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor, Cr Anthony Marsh; Frankston City Mayor, Cr Kris Bolam; Mornington Peninsula Shire CEO, Mark Stoermer; and Frankston City Advocacy Officer, Kristen Thomson. The trip was coordinated and facilitated by CFMP and Jodie Belyea, Member for Dunkley; and Zoe McKenzie, Member for Flinders.

The purpose of this advocacy visit was to present a united approach to advocacy across key policy areas that impact our region – including infrastructure, housing, health and ageing, and environment.

Meetings were held with key decision-makers from government and the Opposition, including:

•        The Hon. Clare O’Neil MP – Minister for Housing, Homelessness and Cities
•        Senator The Hon. Murray Watt – Minister for Environment
•        The Hon. Catherine King MP – Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development (Senior Advisor)
•        The Hon. Sam Rae MP – Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians (Senior Advisor)
•        Senator Anne Ruston – Shadow Minister for Health and Ageing
•        Senator Andrew Bragg – Shadow Minister for Housing and Homelessness
•        Dr Anne Webster MP – Shadow Minister for Local Government and Regional Development

Discussions with these Ministers ranged from election commitments to be delivered across Dunkley and Flinders, ongoing challenges our region continues to face in key areas, and opportunities for the federal government to directly support the region over the next three years.

The alignment of local council and industry on advocacy objectives is a powerful tool when it comes to successfully lobbying the government to take notice of our region above others.

Joint advocacy approaches and delegations of this type occur in Federal Parliament every week. As the peak advocacy body for our region, the Committee takes its role in facilitating opportunities like this very seriously – and we’re delighted both councils could join these efforts.

Key to this also is strong bi-partisanship. The Committee would like to once again acknowledge or deep appreciation for both Jodie Belyea and Zoe McKenzie for their support in our ongoing work and coordinating this trip.

This joint advocacy trip followed one arranged by the Committee last year with Mornington Peninsula Shire, and is a pivotal example of the importance of the relationship between industry and local government across our region.

A full report of what was discussed with each Minister can be read here.

 

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Quotes attributable to Josh Sinclair, CEO of the Committee for Frankston & Mornington Peninsula

 “I want to thank our local Members of Parliament for helping facilitate these pivotal conversations in Canberra.”

“Joint advocacy with council at the highest levels of government demonstrate the importance and impact the Committee and council partnership has for our community.”

“Together with both local mayors, our region presented a united and collaborative approach to key opportunities for the federal government to sink their teeth into on the Peninsula.”

“Whether it’s $50m in road upgrades along Nepean Highway, investment in diverse housing options, or support for health and ageing projects – the federal government now knows clearly what our region needs to enhance liveability and ensure the Peninsula remains a great place to live and work.”

Quotes attributable to Zoe McKenzie, Federal Member for Flinders

“I am so grateful to both the Shire and Committee for coming to Canberra.”

 “I stand up for Flinders every day, making the argument for the investment we need in infrastructure, transport, health and education facilities, as well as our roads and community and sporting assets.”

“When others from the Peninsula join me to make these arguments face to face with decision makers from both parties of government, it helps to ensure what we need and why we need it!”

 
Quotes attributable to Jodie Belyea, Federal Member for Dunkley

“I am proud to have facilitated a successful joint delegation with both councils and CFMP, advocating for our region’s priorities.”

“It’s another important step to ensure Frankston- Mornington Peninsula is a thriving region for businesses, organisations, and residents."