Make your voice heard

Published on 09 July 2025

It has been another busy year here in Hobsons Bay, and the last few weeks have been no exception.

I recently wrote to the Victorian Minister for Children to advocate for the reinstatement of funding to a vital sleep settling program for new parents. Their decision to cut this funding came with little warning - Council was given just six weeks’ notice of a major change to our maternal and child health services.

This program has long served as an essential support and educational resource for new parents, and its sudden removal is deeply concerning.

Having personally benefited from a group-based sleep settling program when my daughter was young, I know just how valuable this support can be. It gave me the reassurance that I was doing the best for both her and myself.

I truly empathise with new parents who may now miss out on this level of support and guidance. That’s why we’re calling on the government to reverse their decision and continue funding this critical service.

In other news, the recent approval of the certificate of compliance for Block 11 at Techno Park is incredibly positive. This marks a significant step forward for the residents of Techno Park.

Since this issue first arose during the previous Council term, I’ve been a vocal advocate for the Techno Park community. Everyone deserves to feel safe and secure in their home, and I’m pleased that Block 11 residents can now go about living their lives. I commend the residents for their resilience, and I am proud to have supported them in their efforts to remain in their homes at Techno Park.

While I’ve got you, here’s a little winter bonus - parking meters are switched off right across Hobsons Bay this season. It’s our way of making things a bit easier and encouraging everyone to get out, explore, and support our fantastic local traders.

Cr Columns are published in the Star Weekly newspaper every fortnight.