Interface Councils' report reinforces importance of increased infrastructure funding

VECCI Chief Executive Mark Stone has welcomed this week’s release of the Interface Councils’ Fairer Funding Report.

Mr Stone said Victoria’s 10 municipalities that lie at the interface of metropolitan Melbourne and rural Victoria are under increasing pressure to accommodate the state’s rapid population expansion.

"The Interface Councils’ research shows the municipalities have absorbed 50 per cent of the state’s growth in the past five years," Mr Stone said.

"This growth is expected to continue, with current forecasts predicting that 1.7 million people will reside in interface communities by 2031.

"The significant role these communities play in local economic development, trade, business investment and employment means adequate infrastructure funding must be a priority for government at all levels.

"It is estimated that the 10 municipalities will require more than $10 billion in new or upgraded infrastructure and services over the next 15 years.

"This is why VECCI’s Taking Care of Business state election agenda supports the establishment of an Interface Councils Growth Fund that will support the progressive funding of the Councils’ priority projects."

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The Victorian Employers' Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI) is the peak body for employers in Victoria, informing and servicing more than 15,000 members, customers and clients around the state.

vecci.org.au

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