Gippsland Lakes Fund certainty sought
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Gippsland Lakes Fund certainty sought

Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, and GLMAC Committee members, Margaret Supplitt and Des Sinnott discuss environmental projects at the Mitchell River silt jetties and Jones Bay.

The future of the Gippsland Lakes Environment Fund was raised in Parliament this week with State Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, on Tuesday asking the Environment Minister whether she will continue this important fund.

Mr Bull said the Fund, which is administered by the Gippsland Lakes Ministerial Advisory Committee, has supported an enormous amount of work in the areas of research, education and investigatory matters.

“None more important than its work on the unique Burrunan Dolphins and understanding more about marine pests and monitoring work,” Mr Bull told Parliament.

“It is very clear that these programs need to continue and there are other important projects to be undertaken, and that is why this funding is so critical.

“The Coalition committed a further $8 million pre election, but with the clock ticking there are many in my community of Gippsland East, including members of groups who undertake this work, awaiting news.

“Funding for the Gippsland Lakes has always attracted bipartisan support, and I ask the Minister if she will continue to support the Gippsland Lakes via this fund.”

Mr Bull said it was unfortunate there was this level of uncertainty under the current government, but remained hopeful there would be an announcement in the upcoming State Budget and the Fund would not be cut or reduced.

“Ms Neville now has one month to respond to my question, but we are likely to know the answer on Budget day, which will arrive before then,” he said.