Tuesday, 10 September 2024

Northcote electorate

Kat THEOPHANOUS (Northcote) (14:48): (809) My question is to the Minister for Environment, and I ask: what are the next steps the Victorian government is taking to deliver an uplift to Merri Common in my electorate of Northcote? Residents living in the area around Merri train station have long advocated for improvements to the Merri Common, an important local reserve in our busy urban suburbs. We were thrilled when the Labor government committed $1.5 million for the design and delivery of upgrades to this space. Since then it has been a long road through the bureaucracy of the Metro Tunnel, VicTrack and Darebin council, but I am excited to inform residents that we are getting closer, with Darebin council having agreed to appoint a project manager and begin early preparations for community consultation. Excitingly the funding envelope has allowed us to expand the scope of the project to Peters Reserve nearby, which has a much-loved kids playground. Just a few weeks back my family joined in celebrating 20 years since locals rallied together to save Peters Reserve from being sold by the council, an outstanding example of community advocacy. Residents will welcome knowing next steps on the $1.5 million commitment to improve these vital open spaces.

Bridget Vallence: On a point of order, Speaker, I have a number of questions that still remain unanswered despite having raised points of order on these a number of times. Question 745 to the Minister for Ambulance Services is an adjournment matter that is overdue. Questions on notice to the Minister for Skills and TAFE – there are 13 of these, questions 1137, 1139, 1141, 1151, 1220, 1229, 1231, 1234, 1355, 1356, 1357, 1358 and 1359. Also overdue is question on notice 1445 to the Minister for Energy and Resources, and question 1460 to the Minister for Economic Growth is also overdue. I would appreciate if these ministers were able to respond to my constituents.

The SPEAKER: Order! A point of order is not an opportunity to make a statement to the house. You state what you are asking for. Please hand your list to the clerks.