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FEBRUARY 2022 EDITION
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As your local Member of Parliament, I am available to assist you with
any State Government related issues such as education, health, public
transport and police.

 
My office can be contacted on 03 9741 1133 or at
tim.pallas@parliament.vic.gov.au.
IMPORTANT CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) INFORMATION
Note: The information in this section is accurate and relevant at the time of writing. 

COVIDSAFE OUTDOOR ACTIVATION FUND

Great to see Wyndham City Council using its share of the Andrews Labor Government's $40 million COVIDSafe Outdoor Activation Fund to deliver a COVID-Safe experience for Wyndham residents and visitors to enjoy free outdoor high-end classical musical experiences at the Werribee Mansion.

The event includes acoustic strings duos performing under the Mansion eaves, drawing visitors into outdoor dining areas and providing new reasons to visit the precinct, which includes hospitality, accommodation and tourism operators hard hit by the pandemic.

The series has been extended with new dates scheduled from mid-February to mid-March 2022.

It's fantastic to see the council supporting our local businesses.

This is part of the Government's $54.5 million Outdoor Economy Package announced last October to help get more people outdoors, support local businesses and have some fun outdoors – all while staying COVIDSafe.

$20.5 million was allocated for councils to provide immediate assistance to businesses to operate outdoors, while councils will also receive a share of $19.5 million to establish semi-permanent and permanent outdoor precincts beyond this summer.

So happy to see people out and making the most of it!


SCHOOL MINI-VACCINATION CLINICS IN WERRIBEE

The Victorian Government is making sure families have every opportunity to get their children aged 5-11 vaccinated– with mini-vaccination clinics starting close to home at schools in Werribee.

More than 150 primary schools will have mini-vaccination clinics under a $4 million grants program to help local doctors and community pharmacies go into schools to deliver the vaccine in a familiar and trusted environment for children, close to home.

Under the program, local GPs and pharmacists will receive up to $6,500 to cover staffing, travel and equipment costs to get out to schools and vaccinate children – with an additional $5,000 clinic establishment fee per school also available, plus additional loadings for specialist schools or small, rural or regional schools.

Schools hosting mini-vaccination clinics include:

• Warringa Park School, delivered by Interconnect Healthcare

• Wyndham Park Primary School, delivered by SIA Moonee Ponds

• St. Andrew’s Primary School, delivered by SIA Mulgrave

These mini-vaccination clinics are available to students attending the school, not the general public.

For a full list of available vaccination centres, please visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au/book-your-vaccine-appointment.


EXTENSION OF COVIDSAFE SETTINGS FOR SCHOOLS AND EARLY CHILDHOOD SETTINGS

After a safe and successful start to the school year, the Andrews Labor Government will extend its COVIDSafe measures in schools and early childhood settings until the end of Term 1.

This will be a continuation of the focus on ventilation, vaccination and vital COVIDSafe steps.

The Labor Government will distribute an extra 24 million RATs to schools and early childhood services to continue the program.

The school surveillance testing program has been extremely effective at reducing transmission in schools – with Burnet Institute modelling estimating that, assuming a 75 per cent compliance rate with screening of students, the program has prevented more than 21,000 COVID-19 infections.

The testing settings will remain the same, with all primary and secondary school students and staff, and early childhood education and care staff and children aged 3 to 5, recommended to test at home twice a week, while students and staff at specialist schools are recommended to test five days a week.

With global supply increasing, and in anticipation of colder weather when windows may have to be shut and outdoor learning reduced, the Labor Government will deliver a further 60,000 air purifiers – enough to cover every single classroom in government schools and low-fee non-government schools.

This will bring the total number of air purifiers in schools to 111,000 units. The second tranche of air purifiers will start delivery later this term and air purifiers will be with schools by 1 June – in time for the beginning of winter.

The need for the RATs program will continue to be monitored, and it may end earlier based on health advice.


RAPID ANTIGEN TESTS FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD FAMILIES

The Victorian Government is taking extra steps to protect young children and their families and minimise transmission in vital early childhood education and care settings, with free at-home rapid antigen tests to support Victoria’s youngest learners.
 
As supply of rapid tests increases across Australia, we’re expanding our voluntary education surveillance testing program, with free rapid antigen tests to be available to all children aged 3 to 5 attending early childhood education services.
 
More than 1.6 million rapid antigen tests will be delivered to early childhood settings in the coming weeks for families to conduct voluntary twice-weekly testing. Sessional kindergartens will receive their deliveries over the next two weeks, followed by other early childhood services like long day care, family day care and occasional care.
 
This is an additional layer of protection for children and staff in early childhood settings, combined with $7.5 million in early childhood services to improve ventilation, $7.4 million in grants to support kindergarten services to implement the best COVIDSafe measures, voluntary RAT testing for staff, and third dose mandate for staff. 
 
This investment will help thousands more Victorian families keep their children safe and slow the spread of the virus, increasing access to rapid tests without the barriers of cost or global supply issues.


$1.4 BILLION INJECTION FOR HEALTHCARE OMICRON RESPONSE

Victoria's health system will be further strengthened with a vast range of new measures to support hardworking healthcare workers, treat patients in the community and get more paramedics on the road sooner.

A new $1.4 billion package will ensure doctors, nurses and paramedics have the resources and support they need to continue caring for Victorians at home or in a hospital.

Public hospitals will share in $938 million to help cover coronavirus-related costs,support dedicated front-line workers and continue surge payments for healthcare staff.

Victoria's PPE stockpile will get a $161 million boost, through the supply of an extra 40million N95 masks, 30 million surgical masks, 10 million gowns and 10 million face
shields – bolstering the first line of defence for health staff.

More than $30 million has been allocated for critical medicines and equipment used to treat patients, including pulse oximeters, humidifiers and air purifiers

A further $225 million will go towards easing the pressure on hospitals and ambulances, including:

  • $196 million to expand the COVID Positive Pathways program, which has helped more than half a million people safely recover at home since launching
  • $21 million to implement a state-wide virtual triage service, following a successful trial at Northern Hospital – which led to 87 per cent of virtually assessed patients avoiding transportation to hospital
  • Almost $8 million to fund eight additional GP respiratory clinics and establish five urgent care centres
To support Ambulance Victoria as it faces record demand, almost $35 million will extend surge measures put in place last year, while the recruitment of 120 paramedics will be brought forward.

It comes as 66 graduate paramedics officially join the ranks at stations across Victoria after finishing their four-week induction training.

A further $11.5 million will be used to reduce the delay in discharging medically-well COVID-19 positive patients from hospital by improving patient transport across 13 sites.
 

COMMERCIAL TENANCY RELIEF SCHEME EXTENSION

We know businesses are hurting due to the current wave of Omicron cases.

We’ve extended the Commercial Tenancy Relief Scheme to provide more support for commercial tenants struggling with rent payments.

The Scheme will apply retrospectively from 16 January 2022 and run until 15 March 2022.

It provides rent relief and protections for commercial tenants experiencing hardship due to COVID-19.

The Victorian Small Business Commission will continue to support tenants and landlords with information to negotiate an agreement and free mediation for those who need assistance.

Tenants and landlords can visit the Victorian Small Business Commission at vsbc.vic.gov.au for further information or call 13 87 22.


COMMERCIAL LANDLORD HARDSHIP FUND 

We’re supporting commercial landlords who are doing the right thing by their tenants.

Grants of up to $2,000 per tenancy are available for commercial landlords who experience hardship as a result of waiving rent for their tenants under the Commercial Tenancy Relief Scheme.

Find out more, check eligibility and apply at business.vic.gov.au.


RAT MANUFACTURING IN VICTORIA

The Victorian Government is supporting local manufacturing of Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) to help secure critical supplies for the state and create more local jobs in our thriving medical technology sector.

Lumos Diagnostics, together with its delivery partner Planet Innovation, will establish a manufacturing facility and innovation hub in Victoria with support from the state government. 

If approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, Lumos, who are already making RATs for Canadian and European markets, will produce one million tests a month from April, three million a month after July, with full production from October onwards of up to 50 million RATs each year. 

The Government will secure priority supply of several million tests from Lumos to meet demand in the coming months. The project will create at least 70 ongoing jobs.

Victoria's Restriction Levels

For more information regarding coronavirus restrictions in Victoria, visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covidsafe-settings

The list of public exposure sites can be found at coronavirus.vic.gov.au/exposure-sites.
Business Victoria HOTLINE

Businesses across the state can now access information on dealing with COVID-19 by calling the Business Victoria hotline on 13 22 15.

For the State Revenue Office, please visit sro.vic.gov.au
Coronavirus (COVID-19) updates

For the latest updates and advice on the novel coronavirus in Victoria, visit the DHHS website: dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus

Translated resources can be found a dhhs.vic.gov.au/translated-resources-coronavirus-disease-covid-19.
 
IN THIS EDITION
Local News
  1. Growing Suburbs Funding For Wyndham
  2. 2022 Prep Bags For Our Little Learners
  3. Minor Capital Works Funding For Werribee Schools
  4. Upgraded Facilities For Thomas Chirnside Primary School
  5. Works Start On Little River Primary School Upgrade
  6. School Shade Sails Fund
  7. More Respite and Job Support For Our Carers
Victorian Government Announcements, Programs, And Initiatives 
  1. Power Saving Bonus Extension
  2. Historic Laws Passes to Decriminalise Sex Work
  3. Launch of Victoria’s First Aboriginal Youth Justice Strategy – Wirkara Kulpa
  4. Strategic Plan Launched for Iconic Yarra
  5. A Regional Led Bid For the 2026 Commonwealth Games
  6. Joint Road Safety Program Tranche 3
  7. TAC Campaigns
  8. Road Rule Education Online
  9. Support For Our Young LGBTQI Victorians
  10. Victoria’s First LGBTQ+ Strategy
  11. Premier’s Literary Awards Winners Announced
  12. Mindarma App for Mental Health – Free for Victorian Small Businesses
  13. Young Victorians Encouraged to Get a Move on for Health
Grants, Funding And Other Opportunities 
  1. Victorian Non-Government Schools Capital Fund
  2. Great Career Options - Free TAFE Enrol Now
  3. Victoria's Property Market Review
  4. Joan Kirner Emerging Leaders Program
  5. Jobs In Family Violence Field
  6. Hospitality Jobs On The Menu
  7. New Mental Health Funding For Business Communities
  8. Veteran Support Services - Royal Commission Into Defence And Veteran Suicide 
  9. More Trees For A Cooler, Greener West
  10. Boating Facilities Maintenance Grants Now Open
LOCAL NEWS

GROWING SUBURBS FUNDING FOR WYNDHAM

I'm thrilled to announce $6.3 million for Wyndham City Council from the current round of the Andrews Labor Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund.

This includes:
✅ $1.3 million to build a new community centre in Black Forest Road South, Werribee.
✅ $1 million to deliver the new Manor Lakes North Family Centre.

The Black Forest Road South Community Centre will offer early childhood facilities, multi-purpose community space, as well as maternal and child health services.

The Manor Lakes North Family Centre will feature consulting rooms, a community kitchen and community meeting spaces.

Over the past seven years, the Growing Suburbs Fund has invested more than $38.3 million to make 25 projects possible across Wyndham.

This is a great outcome for the Werribee community.


2022 PREP BAGS FOR OUR LITTLE LEARNERS

It was a pleasure to meet some of my youngest constituents at Werribee Primary School and Thomas Chirnside Primary School.

And to some of the very youngest students, I had the opportunity to hand them their 2022 Prep Bags!

Filled with fun and engaging resources, the Prep Bag initiative celebrates the milestone of prep students starting their education journey. I hope all preps at Government schools here in Werribee get the most out of the books and goodies in their 2022 Prep Bags.

Thank you Principal Quinn and Principal Thompson for having me at your great schools.


MINOR CAPITAL WORKS FUNDING FOR WERRIBEE SCHOOLS

A refurbished oval is coming to Werribee Primary School, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government's Minor Capital Works Fund.

It's one of three schools in Werribee to share in more than $18.6 million to fast-track their highest priority project through last year’s second round of the Labor Government’s $90 million fund.

Werribee Primary School will receive $495,692 to deliver their upgraded oval for students to enjoy.

The other funded projects in Werribee include outdoor works for Wyndham Vale Primary School, and a playground upgrade for Little River Primary School.

I look forward to seeing the final results!


UPGRADED FACILITIES FOR THOMAS CHIRNSIDE PRIMARY SCHOOL

Thomas Chirnside Primary School students now have upgraded facilities to enjoy, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

The school student leaders took me on a tour of the school and showed me the new facilities, which includes a shared outdoor learning area. And it all looks fantastic!

In the past seven years, our Government has invested more than $10.9 billion in building new schools and more than 1,700 school upgrades, creating around 13,500 jobs in construction and associated industries.

With investments like these, we’re ensuring local students have the best facilities, our classrooms have the best teachers, and every child is given every chance to succeed.


WORKS START ON LITTLE RIVER PRIMARY SCHOOL UPGRADE

Better facilities are on the way for students at Little River Primary School with works commencing on an important upgrade thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

These works will deliver a natural landscaped play area.  

The Labor Government has provided $28,857 to go towards this project.

In the past seven years, the Victorian Government has invested more than $10.9 billion in building new schools and more than 1,700 school upgrades, creating around 13,500 jobs in construction and associated industries. It is now ahead of schedule in its commitment to open 100 new schools by 2026, with 62 new schools opening between 2019 and 2024.

While much of this funding went on new schools and significant upgrades to help meet increasing demand, the Minor Capital Works fund is about delivering the small projects that make a big difference while also supporting local jobs.

Projects through the Minor Capital Works Fund will be progressively delivered with all projects to be completed by the end of 2022.

The Victorian Budget 2021/22 invests $20 million in the Minor Capital Works Fund to improve learning spaces as well as the condition and character of schools.

More than 300 Victorian government schools have been allocated funding to fast-track priority projects under the Minor Capital Works Fund to improve learning environments as well as the condition and character of schools.


SCHOOL SHADE SAILS FUND

The Andrews Labor Government is taking measures to make our schools as safe as possible for Victorian students, including here in the Werribee District.

And thanks to the School Shade Sails Fund, new shaded outdoor learning spaces are being rolled out in the following Werribee schools:

✅ Little River Primary School
✅ Manorvale Primary School
✅ Suzanne Cory High School
✅ Werribee Primary School
✅ Westgrove Primary School
✅ Woodville Primary School

The School Shade Sails Fund is a part of our over $190 million investment to support ventilation and outdoor learning in Victorian schools.


MORE RESPITE AND JOB SUPPORT FOR OUR CARERS

Unpaid carers in Werribee will receive additional respite opportunities, supporting their vital roles of caring for vulnerable loved ones during the pandemic.

Thanks to the Andrews Labor Government, 55 respite projects will share in $9.5 million of additional funding. The funding will see more opportunities for Victorian carers to just take a break or valuable time for themselves to engage in work, study, exercise or social activities.

The Government is also delivering grants to 22 organisations and partnerships across the state through the $2 million Carers Employment Support Program. The program will help Victorian unpaid carers, including those from multicultural and Aboriginal communities, to access employment, mentoring support and vocational training.

I am pleased that local organisation Neighbourhood Houses Victoria – Wyndham will receive $40,000.

This funding package follows the allocation of $2.6 million for the Supporting Carers Locally Grants Program and the Statewide Partnership Grants Program announced in December. Across Victoria, more than 726,000 carers give their time and effort to look after a family member or friend who needs them, whether due to chronic disease, mental illness, disability or old age.

The list of grant recipients is available at dffh.vic.gov.au/news/increased-respite-and-employment-support-carers.

VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS, PROGRAMS, AND INITIATIVES

POWER SAVING BONUS EXTENSION

The Andrews Labor Government's Power Saving Bonus Program has been extended to 30 June 2022.
 
The extension will provide crucial financial support for eligible households who have yet to receive the payment.

More than 350,000 Victorians have already accessed the one-off $250 payment since it was launched in February 2021, providing more than $87.5 million to those who need it most. This includes many people in Werribee. 

For more information and to apply, visit compare.energy.vic.gov.au.


HISTORIC LAWS PASSES TO DECRIMINALISE SEX WORK

The decriminalisation of sex work was recently enshrined in law, ensuring sex workers in Victoria have the same protections and recognition as any other worker in the state.

The Sex Work Decriminalisation Act 2022 will address persistent discrimination and stigma experienced by sex workers and remove limits on the independence of sex workers to make free and fair choices about their employment.

The reforms will also contribute to improved safety and welfare for street-based sex workers. Sex workers report current working conditions as unsafe in both the licensed and unlicensed sectors, including violence in the workplace, deterrents to reporting violence, and a lack of compliance with safe-sex measures.

Decriminalisation of sex work in Victoria will occur in two stages.

The first phase is set to commence in May this year and will remove most offences and criminal penalties for individuals participating in the act of consensual sex work. It will also introduce anti-discrimination protections for sex workers.

The second phase is expected to commence in late 2023, and will include the remainder of the reforms, and repeal the sex work licencing system.

For more information, visit vic.gov.au/sex-work-decriminalisation.


LAUNCH OF VICTORIA'S FIRST ABORIGINAL YOUTH JUSTICE STRATEGY - WIRKARA KULPA

The Government has launched Wirkara Kulpa – Victoria’s first Aboriginal Youth Justice Strategy alongside the Aboriginal Justice Caucus and the Victorian Aboriginal community.  

The development of Wirkara Kulpa has been led by the Aboriginal Justice Caucus, in close partnership with government, and addresses a key recommendation in the 2017 Youth Justice Review by Penny Armytage and Professor James Ogloff AM.

It is also an important initiative under Burra Lotjpa Dunguludja, the fourth phase of the Aboriginal Justice Agreement.

Wirkara Kulpa is forward looking and has a vision that sees no Aboriginal children or young people in the youth justice system. This vision will be realised through Aboriginal children and young people being supported to be strong in their culture, connected to families and communities, and living healthy, safe, resilient, thriving and culturally rich lives. 

At its heart, this Strategy embeds children and young people’s voice and participation; Aboriginal cultural values and connection; child and family centred approaches with a focus on trauma informed healing; and promoting and protecting children and young people’s rights.

The Victorian Government has also launched its response to the Commission for Children and Young People’s report – Our Youth, Our Way

Both documents are available online at vic.gov.au/response-our-youth-our-way-inquiry.


STRATEGIC PLAN LAUNCHED FOR ICONIC YARRA

The Andrews Labor Government has launched the Yarra Strategic Plan - Burndap Birrarung burndap umarkoo - a landmark plan to protect the iconic Birrarung — the Yarra River.

The plan represents a partnership with Traditional Owners − the Bunurong and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung − and is underpinned by legislation, a 50-year community vision, and the establishment of the Birrarung Council in 2018, which consists of Traditional Owners and community representatives to oversee the plan.

More than 2,500 Victorians contributed to the vision of managing and protecting the Yarra River and its parklands as one living and integrated entity. This new approach will protect the Yarra River, the Birrurang, from the challenges of population growth and climate change.

The plan – which builds on the Government’s landmark Yarra River Protection (Wilip-gin Birrarung murron) Act 2017 − sets out 40 actions reflecting community values, including expanding parklands and habitat restoration, and revegetation works to increase native fish populations.

For more information about the Yarra Strategic Plan, please visit melbournewater.com.au/about/strategies-and-reports/yarra-strategic-plan-burndap-birrarung-burndap-umarkoo.


A REGIONAL LED BID FOR THE 2026 COMMONWEALTH GAMES

The Victorian Government has signed a Heads of Agreement with the Commonwealth Games Federation and Commonwealth Games Australia to enter exclusive negotiations to bring the 2026 Commonwealth Games to the state – with a vision to deliver a model of Games unprecedented in the competition’s history.
 
The Government and Commonwealth Games Australia will now develop Victoria’s 2026 Commonwealth Games Submission – which will assess the viability of hosting the event.
 
The submission will focus on a new way to host the Games, showing how events could be held in multiple locations across regional Victoria to showcase the best of what the state has to offer and ensure a uniquely Victorian experience for the athletes and spectators.
 
A regionally focused Commonwealth Games would expand the capacity of Victorian regional cities for major events, tourism, arts, culture and sport. Not only would the events mean new economic opportunities through event infrastructure – it would deliver the double benefit of creating local jobs and housing.
 
The Games would also drive participation in sports at both a community and professional level, throughout the state.
 
Victoria is Australia’s sporting capital, hosting the first Olympic Games in the southern hemisphere in Melbourne in 1956.
 
Our enviable calendar of major events today includes the best of world sport, with the Australian Open followed by the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach, the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park, Melbourne Cup Carnival and the Boxing Day Test.
 
The Commonwealth Games Federation will assess this submission prior to any decision being made to award the Games to Victoria.


JOINT ROAD SAFETY PROGRAM TRANCHE 3

The Deputy Prime Minister and Victorian Minister for Roads & Road Safety have announced significant road safety upgrades to help reduce road trauma and save lives on Victorian roads, thanks to a $157.57 million funding boost from the Australian and Victorian governments.

The upgrades are jointly funded under the Road Safety Program and will support a further 54 road safety projects across the state, including 30 projects in metropolitan Melbourne to make intersections safer and a further 24 projects in regional Victoria.

The package includes $89.78 million for regional projects, including:

  • $18.89 million to install continuous safety barriers and road widening along the Midland Highway between Cosgrove South and Benalla; and
  • $5.85 million to install targeted safety barriers and sealing shoulder at key locations along Maffra Road between Heyfield and Maffra.

These projects will create 238 jobs and new opportunities for businesses and suppliers, delivering an important economic boost and helping drive Victoria’s economic recovery.


TAC CAMPAIGNS

A new Transport Accident Commission (TAC) campaign has recently been launched to highlight the injuries that motorcycle riders could avoid by wearing their safety gear on every ride.
 
TAC research shows contusions, abrasions and lacerations are the second-most common type of injury sustained from on-road motorcycle crashes in Victoria.
 
To further protect pedestrians near or on roads, TAC has partnered with KidSafe on a new driveway safety community awareness campaign highlighting the dangers that driveways pose for children. The ad encourages parents, carers and the community to take extra care to avoid run-over tragedies.
 
The campaigns are part of the Andrews Labor Government’s Victoria’s Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030 and Action Plan – working across policy, education, technology, enforcement, vehicle safety and infrastructure to improve safety for those who are more vulnerable on our roads.
 
Victorians are being reminded to be extra cautious on the roads after a tragic start to the year, with 33 people losing their lives across the state – 13 higher than the same time last year.

Some of the most vulnerable on our roads remain motorcyclists with ten people already losing their lives – five higher than the five-year average. Pedestrian fatalities are also higher than the five-year average.


ROAD RULE EDUCATION ONLINE

The Victorian Government has launched a new interactive Road Rule Education Online platform.

The platform provides the latest road rule content to help Victorians better understand safe driving and sharing the road.

Users can test their knowledge with interactive videos, graphics and quizzes on road safety issues including safe vehicles and speed, as well as right of way, parking, line marking and road signs.

Quizzes include how to share the road safely with others, such as motorcyclists, cyclists and heavy vehicles, and tips for driving in wet weather. Rules around giving way and slowing down for emergency services and right of way at intersections are also featured.

Road Rule Education Online means Victorians can easily refresh their knowledge and jump in and out of different modules at a time and pace that suits them.

It follows the launch of the popular Learners Permit and Hazard Perception online tests, which have been used by more than 174,000 Victorians and helped new drivers build their knowledge before taking their test.

To road test the new platform, visit vicroads.vic.gov.au.


SUPPORT FOR OUR YOUNG LGBTQI VICTORIANS

The Victorian Government has recently announced a funding boost of $200,000 to help our LGBTQI+ organisations with increased demand for mental health support.

The recent unnecessary, hurtful public debate around legal protections for young LGBTIQ+ Australians has had a significant impact on their wellbeing and that of their families and loved ones.

The Andrews Labor Government has stepped up when the Commonwealth hasn’t to provide additional capacity for Switchboard, Drummond Street, Thorne Harbour Health, Transcend Australia and Parents of Gender Diverse Children to deliver counselling and support.

The investment will consist of $50,000 each to Switchboard Victoria, Thorne Harbour Health and Drummond Street, and $50,000 split between Transcend and Parents of Gender Diverse Children.

These organisations can be contacted via the details below:


VICTORIA'S FIRST LGBTIQ+ STRATEGY

Pride in our future: Victoria’s LGBTIQ+ Strategy 2022-32 outlines a vision that will drive the efforts of Government over the next ten years to improve the lives and outcomes of LGBTIQ+ Victorians

Since establishing the Equality portfolio in 2015, Victoria has made huge progress - we have banned harmful LGBTQ+ change and suppression (conversion) practices, opened Australia’s first LGBTIQ+ community hub, the Victorian Pride Centre, and made birth certificates more inclusive for trans, gender diverse and intersex Victorians.

However there is still more work to do to achieve equality, and this strategy is how we will get there.

To kickstart the delivery of this ground breaking strategy, the Government has made an immediate investment of $6.5 million:

  • $2 million to deliver state-wide LGBTIQ+ inclusive training and resources to improve LGBTIQ+ inclusion in mainstream and universal services
  • $1.3 million to support initiatives to improve the health and wellbeing of people with an intersex variation
  • $2 million will continue to provide health and wellbeing supports to trans and gender diverse Victorians through the Trans and Gender Diverse Peer Support Program, delivered by Transgender Victoria
  • $1.2 million will fund a state-wide awareness raising campaign to celebrate and increase awareness of LGBTIQ+ experiences

The strategy has been shaped by more than 1,600 contributions from LGBTIQ+ people, organisations and allies and progress on its impact will be formally tracked and reported over its ten-year lifetime.
 


PREMIER'S LITERARY AWARDS WINNERS ANNOUNCED

The Andrews Labor Government is supporting emerging and established writers with the presentation of the Victorian Premier’s Literary Awards, which recognise the best talent in Australian literature.
 
Gunai/Kurnai writer Veronica Gorrie has been honoured with the $100,000 Victorian Prize for Literature for Black and Blue: A Memoir of Racism and Resilience. The book also won the $25,000 Prize for Indigenous Writing.
 
Sharing her powerful story as an Aboriginal woman working in the police force, Gorrie reflects on the racism and sexism experienced and fought during her career in uniform – alongside the impact of racism on her family and life.
 
Other award categories included: fiction, non-fiction, poetry, young adult, drama, unpublished manuscript, and People’s Choice.

For more information, visit wheelercentre.com.


MINDARMA APP FOR MENTAL HEALTH - FREE FOR VICTORIAN SMALL BUSINESSES

The Victorian Government is giving small business owners free access to Mindarma – an online mental health support tool.  
 
Supported by the Black Dog Institute and the University of NSW, Mindarma is an education program developed by leading researchers. Through 10 short interactive sessions, participants learn mindfulness and cognitive techniques for resilience and to manage workplace stressors. 
 
This program forms part of the Labor Government’s $26 million commitment to providing timely and needs based support through the Wellbeing and Mental Health Support for Businesses Initiative, announced in August 2020. 
 
Victorian small businesses can register for free access to Mindarma until 30 June 2022.


YOUNG VICTORIANS ENCOURAGED TO GET A MOVE ON FOR HEALTH

The Andrews Labor Government is giving Victorian kids more opportunities to lace up the boots, hit the dance studio or slide down to a skatepark, as part of a refreshed campaign promoting physical activity.

The Get Your Move On campaign was recently launched with AFLW star and captain Emma Kearney at North Melbourne Football Club as well as the latest Active Schools grant recipients announced.

Get Your Move On encourages kids to engage in 15 minutes of physical activity four times a day, through activities they enjoy – like walking their dog, riding to school, or kicking a football with friends.

It is part of the broader $24.2 million Active Schools initiative ensuring all Victorians aged 5 to 18 years old have the skills, confidence and motivation to live a happy and healthy life by boosting their physical movement each day outside of school.

For more information on the Get Your Move On campaign, please visit: education.vic.gov.au/about/programs/Pages/Get-Your-Move-On.aspx.

GRANTS, FUNDING AND OTHER OPPORTUNITIES

VICTORIAN NON-GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS CAPITAL FUND

Applications for Round 4 of the Victorian Non-Government Schools Capital Fund, which supports the non-government sector to build new schools and upgrade existing low-fee schools, is now open.
 
More than one-third of Victorian students attend Catholic or independent schools, and the Andrews Labor Government is making sure all students across the state are benefitting from better school infrastructure.
 
Applications for Round 4 close on 11 March 2022.

Further information can be found at schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au.


GREAT CAREER OPTIONS - FREE TAFE ENROL NOW

The Andrews Labor Government is giving Victorians even more training and career opportunities with the expansion of the Free TAFE initiative in 2022, helping Victorian communities and industries emerge strongly from the coronavirus pandemic.
 
Since Free TAFE was introduced, more than 100,000 students have enrolled in great courses that lead to strong and rewarding careers. Free TAFE changes lives.
 
Enrolments are still open for Free TAFE, which has grown to more than 60 courses in 2022, giving Victorians the chance to get the skills they need for some of the most in-demand jobs across the state.
 
The new additions in 2022 are headlined by the Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, boosting the veterinary industry by alleviating workforce demands in metropolitan and regional Victoria.
 
There are plenty of other Free TAFE options including Certificate III in Health Service Assistance, Dental Assisting, Civil Construction Plant Operations and Early Childhood Education and Care, Certificate IV in Disability and Mental Health and Plumbing and Services and the Diploma of Accounting to name a few.
 
Whether you are a recent secondary school graduate or looking for a career change TAFE is opening up a world of opportunity to a great variety of rewarding and in demand careers.
 
The Government has made a record $3.2 billion investment in TAFE and training to ensure Victorians have access to high quality education and rewarding career pathways.


VICTORIA'S PROPERTY MARKET REVIEW

The Victorian Government will review laws on underquoting, off-the-plan sales and estate agent conduct, to ensure current consumer laws are best supporting fair and easy access to the housing market.

This review will focus on issues such as underquoting and the upfront costs for buyers to enter the market.

It will also look at the underquoting reforms introduced in 2016 and the current market conditions and if there is further work needed to strengthen these laws.

Further, the review seeks to ensure the education requirements for professionals involved in the real estate sector are appropriate, so they have the expertise and skills necessary to maintain ongoing good practice within the industry.

It is important that both buyers and vendors experience fairness in property pricing and the services they receive.

The review will be conducted by an expert panel, consisting of Enzo Raimondo and Carolyn Bond OAM, supported by regulation and reform expert Claire Noone and the Nous consultancy.

All Victorians are encouraged to have a say in how current consumer laws can be improved to create a property market that is more accessible for everyone, visit engage.vic.gov.au/property-market-review.


JOAN KIRNER EMERGING LEADERS PROGRAM

Applications are now open for the first round of the Joan Kirner Emerging Leaders Program.
 
Systemic barriers continue to limit women’s leadership progress. The program supports women aged 22-40 to advance their careers by providing them with the strategies and skills they need to pursue leadership opportunities across all industries.
 
By supporting more women into leadership roles, the Andrews Labor Government  is working to address gender inequality in the workplace and wider community.
 
Victoria continues to lead the nation in advancing gender equality – this program is just one of a range of initiatives designed to progress gender equality and improve women’s representation.
 
Round one applications close Monday 25 April. 

More information is available by visiting vic.gov.au/joan-kirner-emerging-leaders-program.
 


JOBS IN FAMILY VIOLENCE FIELD

What if your new job was helping people affected by family violence?

The family violence sector needs people with different skills, experiences and backgrounds for roles as diverse as the communities we serve.

Right now, there are opportunities across Victoria for people with diverse skills and backgrounds to join a team working to stop family violence.

Search and apply on our Family Violence Jobs Portal at jobs.familyviolence.vic.gov.au.


HOSPITALITY JOBS ON THE MENU

More jobs are on the menu for Victorians looking for work in the hospitality sector, as the Andrews Labor Government boosts the number of workers in our pubs, restaurants and cafes.  

Jobs Victoria and the Box Hill Institute are delivering a new program to create 200 ongoing and secure hospitality jobs as the industry faces a workforce shortage. We are helping employers meet demand, while supporting Victorians into work.  

New recruits looking for work through the program will continue to learn as they earn, studying a Certificate III qualification in commercial cookery, hospitality or patisserie while receiving on-the-job support and skills development. 

Women over 45, young people under 25 and long-term jobseekers will be prioritised for recruitment. 

The $3.62 million initiative is supported by the $250 million Jobs Victoria Fund, which is creating 10,000 steady and secure jobs for those people most impacted by the pandemic. 

Jobs Victoria works with employers in sectors with workforce demand to create jobs, then supports people looking for work to secure and train for the new roles.

To find out how Jobs Victoria can help employers or people looking for work, visit jobs.vic.gov.au, or call the Jobs Victoria hotline on 1300 208 575.


NEW MENTAL HEALTH FUNDING FOR BUSINESS COMMUNITIES

Victorian small businesses will soon receive extra support to improve their mental health and wellbeing.

We’re pleased to announce the new Mental Wellbeing of Business Communities Grants program that will support eligible member-based business organisations to run dedicated mental wellbeing programs in 2022.

Business Communities including chambers of commerce, trader groups, other business collectives and local government authorities are encouraged to apply.

Successful organisations will receive 10 hours of free training and up to 12 hours of coaching to design a community-led mental wellbeing project, and a grant of $15,000 to deliver it.

Apply now at business.vic.gov.au.


VETERAN SUPPORT SERVICES - ROYAL COMMISSION INTO DEFENCE AND VETERAN SUICIDE

With the second hearing block for the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide beginning on 14 February, we understand many veterans, service personnel and family members may find this period difficult or distressing. 

See vic.gov.au/support-for-veterans-Victoria for the support available.

Support is also available from the following organisations:

The Victorian Government will continue to work with the Commonwealth and other states and territories on the Royal Commission to ensure the best outcomes for veterans and their families.


MORE TREES FOR A COOLER, GREENER WEST

This year 175,000 trees will be planted across Melbourne’s west as part of the More Trees for a Cooler, Greener West initiative.

Applications are now open to land managers in Melton, Brimbank, Moonee Valley, Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay and Wyndham local government areas for trees and funding.

Environmental groups, community groups or schools in Melton, Brimbank, Moonee Valley, Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay or Wyndham that want to plant trees in 2022 should contact the relevant land manager or register your interest at open.space@delwp.vic.gov.au.

Residents who want to join in and plant some trees, stay tuned for an announcement on tree planting events later in the year!

For more information, visit environment.vic.gov.au/more-trees-for-a-cooler-greener-west.


BOATING FACILITIES MAINTENANCE GRANTS NOW OPEN

Up to $2 million in funding will be made available for boat ramp managers to undertake significant structural maintenance, making getting out on the water easier for all Victorians.

The Recreational Structural Maintenance Program will be open to ramp managers required to undertake structural maintenance and asset replacement works at publicly accessible boating facilities.

From installing more user-friendly pontoons or to laying down a new boat ramp surface, the grants, worth up to $300,000 each, will help make boating better. 

The program is open to committees of management and local waterway authorities able to along with state and local government departments and agencies.

Applications close 23 March 2022.

For more information, visit betterboating.vic.gov.au/news/structural-maintenance-grants.


Government is a collaborative process and I encourage you to contact me and pass on your feedback, questions and suggestions, so we can continue to improve our community.

My office can be contacted on 03 9741 1133 or at tim.pallas@parliament.vic.gov.au.

 
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Tim Pallas MP · 2/56-58 Watton St, Werribee, 3030 · Werribee, VIC 3030 · Australia

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