Mr McCurdy said money wasted on repayments could be changing lives across North East Victoria.
“We are paying more than ever before in taxes, and receiving less and less back from the government,” Mr McCurdy said.
“Daily interest repayments will climb to $28.9 million by 2028–29 – that’s over $1.2 million per hour being poured down the drain.
“Despite claiming a $611 million surplus, Labor is running a near $10 billion cash deficit, with net debt forecast to hit a staggering $194 billion by 2028, a $6.7 billion blowout on last year’s forecast.
“That being said, there are some positives for Yarrawonga, which I am pleased to see.
“I will keep fighting to ensure towns like Yarrawonga receive their fair share, including for our crumbling roads, which are putting us at risk everyday.”
Yarrawonga South Road sewer pump station will be upgraded as well as the Yarrawonga water treatment plant being renewed, each receiving $3 million in funding.
24-hour ambulance station
Yarrawonga Ambulance is in line to become a 24 hour service. Funding for dedicated regional and rural ambulance resources included Yarrawonga being upgraded from on-call after hours to a 24-hour ambulance branch.
P-12 finally able to upgrade
Yarrawonga College P-12 has successfully secured a commitment for capital works planning for future expansions.
The college secured a share of $10m of planning funding to begin the process of identifying current assets and student numbers.
“Funding for planning at Yarrawonga P-12 is an excellent start, however, the funding is long overdue and needs to be followed up by more funding for infrastructure in Yarrawonga, including the CFA station,” Mr McCurdy said.
Roads investment disappointing
The budget’s service delivery document said $976 million was provided to upgrade regional roads and bridges to improve network efficiency, freight capacity, safety and travel times for road users but there was no mention of the Ovens Valley region.
Public transport a winner
The Yarrawonga FlexiRide bus, a service which doesn’t follow a fixed route, but instead travels between the town centre and passengers’ chosen stops, was granted $1.4m to continue the service.
This service runs on particular times Monday to Saturday but does not run if there are no walk up passengers or bookings.
$320 million was also put toward making public transport more accessible across the state, with free public transport for under-18s and for seniors from January 1, 2026.
The move is expected to help promote regional tourism and provide a boost to familial connections.
Cost of living crisis
Another round of the power saving bonus will be rolled out in August at a cost of $50 million but is limited to a $100 discount for concession card holders.
An extra 27,000 rebates will be handed out for homeowners to install electric heat pumps and solar hot water and solar hot water systems, and $18 million set aside for pharmacists to treat more Victorians without a trip to the doctor.
