News

| June 07, 2019

Labor’s backflip on leadership program funding

The Nationals Member for Lowan Emma Kealy says Labor was forced into an embarrassing backflip after axing funding for Victoria’s Regional Community Leadership Program (VRCLP) in the 2019-20 budget.

Less than 24 hours after the budget was released and following pressure from VRCLPs, the Minister said funding had been extended for a further 12 months.

The Victorian Regional Community Leadership Program had requested $11 million over four years, equating to $250,000 annually for each regional leadership program to remain operational.

“These regional community leadership programs are important in helping develop leaders in regional communities and must be given certainty,” Ms Kealy said.

“The programs are an important platform in developing and connecting emerging leaders with business, community, government, environment and local culture.

“Leadership Wimmera and Leadership Great South Coast have assisted thousands of people in western Victoria to develop their leadership potential through their annual leadership program, as well as many short courses and tailored training delivered to community, government and corporate organisations.

“Many of these graduates have gone on to be councillors, political candidates and successful business entrepreneurs – just to name a few – in western Victoria and surrounding areas.

“Regional Development Minister Jaclyn Symes has proclaimed she’s “very proud” of Labor’s latest State Budget, despite it having no plan and no money for Regional Victoria.

“This Victorian budget has not delivered for regional Victoria and I am continually angered by Labor’s ongoing contempt for our country communities.”