Local Labor MPs have welcomed the investment which they have said sets out a plan to improve essential services, deliver cost-of-living relief and lays a foundation for a better and more secure future for NSW.
The budget includes $12m for the much-needed resurfacing of Canterbury Road, upgrading of Henry Lawson Drive at Milperra, millions of dollars for upgrades at Punchbowl Public, Bankstown North Public, Condell Park, Sir Joseph Banks, Picnic Point High and Canterbury Boys high schools, a dedicated bus service between Padstow Heights and Menai High School, as well as $1.3 billion for a new Bankstown Hospital and $350 million upgrade of Canterbury Hospital.
State MP for Bankstown, Jihad Dib, said the Budget was about the people.
“It is about building people’s access to health, education and essential services,” he said.
“Western Sydney is growing and I am proud to be part of the Government that recognises the need for greater support for essential services and infrastructure, such as hospitals, schools, roads, and trains.”
The budget also includes: Expanded eligibility for the First Buyers Assistance Scheme; Pensioner Concession Rebate Scheme, which provides up to $250 on ordinary council rates; $500 fee relief per child for three-year-olds in long day care at eligible preschools; Bill relief extended to July 1, 2024 for families, seniors, and households struggling with household costs; and Family Energy Rebate and Seniors Energy Rebate increasing to $250.
State MP for Canterbury, Sophie Cotsis, said the Canterbury Hospital redevelopment should start this year and be completed by 2028.
“After many years of neglect by the former Government, this is a great Labor Budget that is finally delivering for our community,” she said.
State MP for East Hills, Kylie Wilkinson, said South-West Sydney was one of the fastest growing communities in NSW and had been neglected for too long.
“It deserves its fair share in terms of access to health, education and other essential services,” she said.
