Be part of council’s new women’s advisory group

Cr Diana Grima. (Joe Mastroianni). 239923_03

Cr Diana Grima

Everyone has a role to play in making sure our community is a safe environment where everyone has the same opportunities.

I’d really like to encourage women in Hobsons Bay to put their hand up to be part of council’s new women’s advisory group.

This group is being set up as part of our commitment to addressing gender inequity, and it will help council design and plan a suite of initiatives that address issues affecting women in Hobsons Bay.

In May, council voted unanimously to support a motion that called for urgent action to reduce violence against women.

It included writing to the premier, Jacinta Allan, asking for urgent action from the state government to reduce the number of women killed by violence each day.

You can express interest in joining the group at participate.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au. Applications close on Tuesday, August 6.

There are some exciting works coming up in my ward that are going to be a great benefit to the community.

Works are underway at the Laverton Swim and Fitness Centre. More than $2 million in works will include upgrades to the building, change rooms, pool plant and fire services, and an internal fit out.

These works will make sure we have a pool in the area that meets modern standards.

Works have also started at Alma Reserve in Altona Meadows with Stage 1 of a project that is part of the Better Places Seabrook and Altona Meadows program.

The first stage involves upgrading the reserve, including a new playspace, community gathering space, shelter, landscaping and new park furniture. Council has allocated $360,000 for this first stage.

Council’s budget for this financial year includes $700,000 for the second stage of works, which had its masterplan finalised after an incredible 2,400 responses and ideas from the local community.

I’m always so proud to see that level of enthusiasm in my community because it means people are passionate about where they live.

The Alma Avenue shopping precinct works will include improvements to the car park, the pedestrian crossing to the reserve, and the streetscape.