EDUCATION: Recognising southern Lake Mac as one of the fastest growing regions in NSW, the Budget funds the relocation of Cooranbong primary school, complete with a co-located early learning centre. I’ve called on the State to fund early childhood education in southern Lake Mac ever since the Government announced its co-located preschool program. This commitment to our kids couldn’t come sooner.

HEALTH: The Budget committed a historic amount of health funding, but it’s still unclear how this filters down to Lake Mac. We know there’s a public health services gap in the southwest region – HNELHD confirmed this in 2024! Lake Macquarie City Council, which is well placed to understand growth scenarios, also recognises this need and backs my call for a Health One Facility. I’ve sought more information from the Government and have also had some positive discussions around securing more community health services for this major growth corridor.

ROADS: With the Budget releasing the remaining $12.1m for the Speers Point roundabout upgrade and based on my own discussions with Transport for NSW on Budget Day, all signs seem to point to construction starting on the $16m project soon.

$11m was also released by the State for the Mandalong Road upgrade, which is jointly funded by the Federal and NSW Governments. We’ve waited too long for upgrades to these daily bottlenecks. I’m keeping close tabs on these projects to keep the Government accountable and make sure it delivers for commuters.

MORISSET HOSPITAL/SPORTS FACILITY: I'll keep pushing for the Government to commence planning for the future use of the Morisset Hospital site, starting with community consultation, so the land is put to good use and for the benefit of the Morisset Sports Facility project. The Budget releases $1.1m for the Sports Facility, which will help progress planning. I’m seeking more information from the Government on this key priority.

MISSES FOR LAKE MAC - ENVIRONMENT, ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE: Once again, the Budget has overlooked funding for LT Creek remediation dredging works, the stalled upgrade of Main Road intersection at Dora Creek, and the works needed to make the Esplanade and Park Road entrance to Speers Point Park safe. I’ll continue to advocate for our local environment and upgrades to make our roads safer and more efficient.