Charlotte Walker (SA, Australian Labor Party) | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to celebrate some fantastic news for the community of Victor Harbor and the wider southern Fleurieu region. Last month the Albanese government announced $2.5 million in funding for the Victor Harbor Regional Community, Sport and Recreation Precinct through the regional Precincts and Partnerships Program. This investment will help bring to life a project that will provide sporting facilities, childcare services, allied health spaces and community amenities for local families.

As someone who grew up on the Fleurieu Peninsula, I know how important community spaces are. They are where kids play their first game of netball, football or basketball, where families gather on weekends, and where friendships are formed and communities strengthened. Regional communities deserve facilities that meet the needs of a growing population. And that's exactly what this project is about. It will help address gaps in sport, recreation and childcare services while supporting local jobs and economic growth across the region. I recently had the opportunity to visit the site, and it was wonderful to see the enthusiasm and optimism surrounding this project. The local community has worked incredibly hard to get it to this point, and this funding is an important step towards making their vision a reality.

Too often regional communities are told to wait their turn. This government believes regional Australians deserve investment now. We believe communities like Victor Harbor should have access to the infrastructure they need to grow, thrive and attract the next generation of families. I am proud that the Albanese government is backing Victor Harbor, and I look forward to seeing this precinct become a lasting asset for the Fleurieu region.