Victorian Minister for Local Government, Melissa Horne says an investment of $12.1 million in Budget 2023 will deliver on a promise made to help councils create new apprenticeships and traineeships.
She said the funding will also enable a tailored Fair Jobs Code to operate for local government – supporting councils to fill skills shortages and better serve their communities.
“Investing in a skilled workforce for our councils ensures Victorians have the parks, gardens and other facilities that matter to them.”
“It means councils can do the best job possible to serve their communities,” said Minister Horne.
Also included in today’s Budget announcement was $51.4 million in recurrent funding for public libraries.
“Since 2015/16, we’ve supported libraries across the state with more than $410 million in funding,” said Ms Horne.
The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV), however, was not so welcoming of the funding commitment to public libraries.
“While the budget includes a range of education initiatives, councils are concerned that the State Government’s library funding contribution continues to decrease, slipping to 17%,” said President, David Clark.
“It’s clear the many challenges councils face in the delivery of community services and infrastructure will remain after this budget,” he said.
