Note from Hobsons Bay council: The column which was published on April 21 was not authored by councillor Matt Tyler and did not reflect his views and opinions
After a trying two years, moments of despair are understandable. Division, conflict and uncertainty are ever present.
And yet, in the face of such adversity, I’ve been grateful to connect with wonderful folks over recent months who continue to show up to better our community: whether running through the colours celebrating Holi in Seabrook, joining the Friends of Skeleton Creek to protect and enhance local grasslands or standing in solemn reflection at the recent ANZAC Day memorial service.
We are richer as a community when we stand together in solidarity – with each other and also with our planet. The choice about how we engage with others rests with each of us – and council has a role to play too.
Infrastructure can enable and empower our community. I am proud that council’s draft budget includes a funding commitment for the Western Aquatic and Leisure Centre and the Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre. These projects are of intergenerational and regional significance. While funding is required from other levels of government, their inclusion in council’s draft budget reflects the dedication of local advocates who are forcefully making the case for improved community facilities.
As a community, we can also choose whether we provide a hand up to those in times of need. Recently, at the Altona Green Primary School Fete, I heard from a hard-working mum of three. Too much of her money was being spent on rent. She was considering moving away from our community – leaving behind her school community and other supports.
This isn’t a good outcome for anyone and is not inevitable. The Andrews government’s $5.3 billion Big Housing Build will dramatically increase housing supply, making more room in the market for families like the one I spoke to.
I was pleased to take part in recent consultations regarding the proposed affordable housing in Epsom street, Laverton. A recurring theme was the need for affordable housing in our community and support for council helping to address this need. While there’s more work required to get the design principles right, I want to see greater access to affordable housing for folks in our community.
We are at our best when we take the time to connect, demonstrate care for our precious planet and lift each other up. The draft council budget makes investments that will make our community even stronger. To review the budget and have your say, visit participate.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au before Sunday, May 15.
On another note, as part of the Coffee with a Councillor initiative, I’ll be at Homestead Run on 7 May between 10am to 12pm – feel free to come down for a chat.
