Packed out Cabinet

Friday June 10, 2022

TBW 10th June - Country Cabinet packed.PNG

Published by: The Border Watch

By Charlotte Varcoe

COUNTRY Cabinet made its first stop in the region this week with a booked out event held at the Blue Lake Bar and Bistro.

State ministers joined Premier Peter Malinauskas in discussing hot topics across Mount Gambier and the wider region including veteran services, lack of foster carers and staff shortages in schools.

More than 250 community members were able to listen and ask the ministers questions following a smoking ceremony and a community barbecue.

Mr Malinauskas opened the event reiterating the State Government's recent multi-million-dollar funding announcement package for the Limestone Coast, stating it would not have been possible without the continued advocacy of Mount Gambier MP Troy Bell.

"The biggest mistake recent State governments have made, and that is both Liberal and Labor, is thinking the Limestone Coast needs Adelaide but it is actually the other way around," Mr Malinauskas told the large crowd on Wednesday night.

"We are focusing on skill development and the achievements that have come out of the community here and I credit Troy Bell for his continued advocacy for Mount Gambier." Members of the public were then able ask questions for more than an hour to ministers.

Concerns were expressed around skilled migrant workers and migration, veteran services being readily available across the Limestone Coast, as well as National Disability Insurance Scheme application difficulties.

Power and hydrogen was also mentioned as well as the need for more severe consequences for reoffending 'hoon' drivers.

Minister for Health and Wellbeing Chris Picton acknowledged the need for better general practitioner services in regional areas, including in Mount Gambier.

Mr Picton said all three tiers of government needed to continue to work together to further push and encourage general practitioners to remain in the regions and increase services.

A member of the public also commented on the lack of foster carers and the difficulties faced by those currently working within the system.

Minister for Child Protection Katrine Hildyard said she was aware of the issue and commented on the dedication shown by workers in the foster care system across the State.