A new police station will be built in Orbost under an elected Liberal Nationals Government.

 

The Nationals Member for Gippsland East Tim Bull announced $3.5 million for the replacement of the ageing facility today.

 

Mr Bull said a new police station would better support local police to keep the community safe.

 

“The replacement of Orbost Police Station is the number one priority for local police command and having toured the station with officers only recently, there is no question as to why it is at the top of the list, so it is pleasing to be able to announce the Liberal Nationals will build a new facility,” Mr Bull said.

 

“Our local police do a fantastic job keeping the community safe, but their job is made harder in an extremely out-dated station that is no longer fit-for-purpose and does not allow for any future potential staff increases.

 

Orbost and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry Secretary Garry Squires said the announcement was good news for the town and its surrounding communities.

 

“With a new station we’ll be better able to attract and retain officers, while a bigger facility will help cater for the needs of our community in the future,” Mr Squires said.

 

Mr Bull said it was disappointing the Andrews Labor Government had not recognised the need to upgrade the existing site.

 

“The need to replace Orbost Police Station has been completely ignored by Labor, which despite knowing it was the highest priority for local police command, refused to commit,” Mr Bull said.

 

“While a new station is great for the Mallacoota community, Orbost is the most in need of development across East Gippsland.

 

“And with almost 300 local residents recently signing the petition I circled in support of a new station only recently, it is obvious this is a priority for this community.”