INDEPENDENT
INDEPENDENT for Flinders, Ben Smith, announced plans to unlock millions of funding for roads, services and hospitals if he is elected, as data shows residents in Geelong receive ten times the funding of residents on the peninsula.
Due to a bizarre bureaucratic quirk, the peninsula is currently classified as metropolitan Melbourne, despite being 70% Green Wedge and having more in common with regional areas than city suburbs.
“It just doesn’t make sense. We have 40 distinct townships spread across 800 square kilometres, limited public transport, and significant agricultural areas. Yet because we’re classified as ‘metropolitan,’ we miss out on funding programs that similar coastal and rural communities across Australia can access,” Smith said.
“Frankly, it’s bewildering that our political leaders haven’t fought harder to address the discrepancy that’s harming our small businesses, schools, hospitals, and roads. Instead, they announce minor investments or write letters on our behalf, but the core issue remains unresolved.”
The impact is particularly stark when compared to other similar areas that are classified “regional”. Data from from the Committee for Frankston and Mornington Peninsula shows that over a ten-year period to 2021, Federal and State combined infrastructure commitments in Geelong and the Bellarine were $22,823 per person, while in the Mornington Peninsula and Frankston it was only $2,317 per person.
Smith’s plan to get Flinders its fair share includes:
- Demanding a new funding category for peri-regional areas like the peninsula
- Fighting for our fair share of federal infrastructure spending to compensate for any funds Flinders should have been eligible for in the past.
“Our small businesses pay $150m more in payroll tax and 50% more in stamp duty compared to similar regions, and are ineligible for many funding opportunities due to our metropolitan designation. “Our roads carry heavy tourist traffic but can’t access regional roads funding. 82% of the Mornington Peninsula Shire is not serviced by public transport, but we can’t access regional connectivity funding to solve that problem.
“When I talk to local businesses and community groups, they’re frustrated. We face many of the same challenges as regional areas – distance from services, seasonal tourism pressures, agricultural needs – but we’re locked out of the funding to address them. “If elected, I will fight from day one to get us our fair share,” Smith said. For more information visit: www.smithforflinders.com.au.
First published in the Mornington News – 11 March 2025
