Ms ADDISON (Wendouree) (14:35): My question is for the Minister for Regional Development. Will the minister please advise when the successful applicants for the current round of the Regional Infrastructure Fund will be announced?

The RIF provides important funding for regional communities and demonstrates our government’s commitment to all Victorians. In my electorate of Wendouree the RIF has supported a number of transformative projects, including $5 million in funding for the relocation of the Ballarat Showgrounds in 2018. The funding is supporting the Ballarat Agricultural & Pastoral Society’s move to a new purpose-built facility in Mount Rowan.

Additionally, the Ballarat Tramway Museum received $2 million through the RIF for crucial track replacement, which will replace ageing track and provide opportunities for locals and tourists alike to enjoy tram rides at beautiful Lake Wendouree.

I would like to thank the minister for her strong support for our regional communities, and I look forward to hearing when the announcement of the successful applicants of the RIF will be made.

Read the Minister’s response here – or for more of my contributions in Parliament, click here.