Morrison Turns His Back on Regional Victoria - Again

10 June 2021

Local Federal MP Libby Coker is calling for a rethink of the Morrison Governments income support program after it excluded regional Victorians from the COVID disaster payment.

Ms Coker said local workers, particularly on the Great Ocean Road and the Bellarine are very angry they are unable to access the Federal support program because they do not live in a hot spot.

They may not work in a hot spot but workers in our region are being soot down because of it, she said.

No visitation from Melbourne, interstate, or overseas means less visitors spending and unfortunately this puts workers at risk of losing their jobs.

Last week, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced payments of $500 would be available to people who normally work more than 20 hours a week those who work less would receive $325.

Ms Coker stressed while restrictions have eased the region is not yet back to COVID-normal.

Why is this Government so hellbent on punishing regional Victorians? They have lost this work through no fault of their own, she said.

Coalition MP Russell Broadbent has also spoken out against his governments own policy- labelling the payments restrictions as not fair.

Business and Tourism Anglesea President Damien Cerantonio said he welcomed the governments support package but warned people were falling through the gaps.

This period was always going to be the period that was going to test our region the most. Unfortunately, we havent got off to a good start, he said.

Some businesses, such as tourism operators are still not operating. Many of these workers are casual employees. It would be great if the Federal Government would acknowledge this.

Ms Coker has written to the Prime Minister to air her concerns about the payment and is calling on anyone affected by the payment restrictions to get in touch.