In her submission to treasurer Josh Frydenberg last week, Dr Haines recommended the government co-fund up to $146.7 million in shovel-ready tourism projects in the north east.
Dr Haines said this would offset losses to a region hit with bushfires, COVID-19 shutdowns and the Victoria-NSW border closure as well as prepare it for a revitalisation ahead of the economy re-opening.
“Indi’s nine local councils worked closely with me to nominate key projects for our region that will grow jobs and I think the government will recognise the collaboration evident in our submission that supports revitalisation and recovery,” Dr Haines said.
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“This pipeline of projects can bolster our position through the upcoming recession and see us out the other side stronger.”
The major tourism project highlighted within Benalla Rural City is $3 million for construction of a purpose-built Holden Heritage Centre at Winton Motor Raceway.
With the Benalla Auto Club in negotiations with Holden to become the custodians of Holden’sAustralian car collection, memorabilia and production records, the centre would include a museum, workshop, gift shop, corporate area and café.
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Among other recommendations, Dr Haines has asked the government to co-fund up to $403.46 in shovel-ready infrastructure projects including $7 million for upgrades to Benalla-Whitfield Rd.
The road is the last unsealed designated collector road in the municipality, with 6km of remaining gravel needing to be upgraded and sealed.
And in broader budget recommendations, funding for amenity and accessibility upgrades in regional railway precincts, such as Benalla Railway Station, as part of Inland Rail have also been highlighted.
Dr Haines said while Indi communities needed the stimulus, they would not be starting from scratch.
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“Our economy has strong roots,” she said.
“Tourism is an excellent example, accounting for 20 per cent of gross regional product and 25pc of employment.
“But it needs help after the summer’s bushfire emergency, the COVID-19 shutdowns and border closures.
“It lost 1.6 million visitors or 95 per cent of its business-as-usual market to the end of June.
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“These proposals will put it back on the front foot.”
Dr Haines will meet with senior ministers by zoom and in Parliament beginning this week to discuss her submission, with the final budget scheduled to be announced on October 8.
● To read the fully copy of Dr Haines budget submission for 2020-21, head to this link.
