Tuesday, 1 August 2023

Southern Metropolitan Region

Ryan BATCHELOR (Southern Metropolitan) (14:25): (288) My question is to the Minister for Child Protection and Family Services. Can the minister outline how funding allocated in the 2023–24 budget to St Kilda Mums will provide assistance to families doing it tough in Southern Metropolitan? We know that thousands of Victorians are struggling right now with the cost of living. Twelve consecutive interest rate rises, soaring power bills and inflation are cutting into the pockets of everyday Victorians. Groups like St Kilda Mums in my electorate are on the ground providing daily relief to many families. Their warehouse in Clayton, if you have not been out there, is a sight to behold. Thousands of pieces of furniture, clothing and baby supplies are being donated and rehomed to families in need every single day. I was there recently, dropping off some still good but no longer needed baby equipment, and we hope that through St Kilda Mums they are given to those who are in need. I am keen to see what the Andrews Labor government more broadly is doing to support this important charity.