Labor is helping to reduce flood risks and unlock almost 70 hectares of residential opportunity in Colac.
Minister for Regional Development Michaela Settle today visited the recently completed Elliminyt Wetlands.
The project redeveloped more than seven hectares of flood-prone land from an existing water basin into a larger basin and wetland.
The new infrastructure allows stormwater to be captured and treated from previously flood-affected areas, providing better opportunities for residential development.
The site features boardwalks with views of the wetlands and Council will soon deliver a playground. Seventeen local construction workers and a range of local suppliers were engaged to bring the wetland to life.
Labor invested $3 million towards the project with $1.45 million from Colac Otway Shire Council.
This builds on Labor’s investment to help deliver the Colac Deans Creek Growth Corridor Outline Development Plan – which identifies key areas and opportunities to grow housing nearby at Deans Creek.
This will pave the way Colac’s expected population growth of 7,000 by 2050 and help local industries attract and retain workers with secure accommodation.
Labor is also supporting affordable worker housing with the construction of 16 new units for key healthcare workers at Colac Area Health underway.
There are more than 1,600 healthcare and social assistance jobs in the Colac-Otway area, making it a key part of the local economy.
Only Labor is investing in regional Victoria, with more than $50 billion delivered over the past decade to make our regional cities and towns even better places to live, work, visit and study.
While Labor continues to back our landmark projects, Jess Wilson’s Liberals would cut $40 billion in services.
As stated by Minister for Regional Development Michaela Settle
“Labor is paving the way for more housing growth in Colac to support a growing population and local economy.”
“These wetlands are a real asset for the community, improving flood protection and creating a beautiful natural space for people to enjoy.”
As stated by Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“With wetlands, boardwalks and a new playground on the way, this site is becoming a place where families can live, play and connect with nature.”
As stated by Colac Otway Shire Mayor Jason Schram
“Council made this project a priority and advocated long and hard. We are proud to have delivered this major project, which supports our housing land expansion, our environment and provides fantastic public open space in a growth area.”
