Member for Mallee Dr Anne Webster has hit back at the Albanese Government’s criticism of the Auditor-General reviewing the recent Regional Housing Support program, saying it further reinforces their disinterest in supporting dire housing needs in Mallee.

A faceless spokesperson for Infrastructure Minister Catherine King told a Mallee newspaper “our department doesn’t consider electorates when working through grant applications, it is a purely merit based process.”

“Missing-in-action Minister King trotted out an anonymous public servant, not even putting her own name to any response to my criticism,” Dr Webster said.

“This is typical of Labor’s dismissive, scorched-earth approach to regional Australia.  Zero engagement, zero interest, just send a public servant to respond. 

“I cannot remember when Minister King has even set foot on official business in Mallee, despite her Ballarat electorate being our neighbour.  Minister King’s behaviour here suggests she doesn’t have a care or clue about Mallee’s needs.”

Dr Webster’s joint media release with Shadow Infrastructure Minister and Victorian Senator Bridget McKenzie criticised the Albanese Government ignoring Mallee’s needs under the Regional Housing Support program, which is why Dr Webster asked the Auditor-General to investigate.  The Auditor-General has confirmed the Australian National Audit Office intends to do so.

Yarriambiack Shire Council submitted four applications for the program, and Swan Hill Rural City Council submitted two – yet not one Mallee shire received funding.

Yarriambiack Mayor Kylie Zanker said last month:

“As a Mayor to say our council is disappointed is an understatement. We work restlessly on funding applications and to miss out again is just heartbreaking. We submit quality applications investing time and money on consultants to assist to ensure our applications are of the highest standard and to be unsuccessful is devastating. Four quality projects across Yarriambiack and not one funded. Our communities deserve so much more than the ‘zero’ that is being delivered.” 

Dr Webster cited Mayor Zanker and the Mildura Rural City Council missing out on Growing Regions Program round 2 funding in Parliament earlier this month.  Regional Victorian shires were stranded by the Growing Regions Program round 2 when Labor announced applications for funding during a period overlapping the caretaker period for local government elections.

A Swan Hill Rural City Council spokesperson told the Swan Hill Guardian about being overlooked for Regional Housing Support program funding:

“While this funding outcome is disappointing, we will build on our efforts, explore alternative opportunities, and work collaboratively to continue to drive positive and innovative housing solutions for our community.”

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