Member for Wagga Wagga Dr Joe McGirr will be advocating for several community concerns once parliament returns in 2025. Photo: Shri Gayathirie Rajen.
The cost of living is again sitting at the top of people’s lists of concerns, with a new survey conducted by Member for Wagga Wagga Dr Joe McGirr’s office showing 84 per cent of people in the region are feeling the pinch.
The survey was conducted from June to September and was completed by 850 people. It showed that the top five issues included cost of living, affordable and reliable energy, access to health care services, better and safer roads and housing affordability.
Dr McGirr said the feedback collected in his 2024 Community Survey was presented to Premier Chris Minns for his consideration.
“This is very valuable information that provides a framework that I can use to lobby the government for changes to improve the economy and lifestyle of our electorate,” Dr McGirr said.
“I have written to the Premier with the details of the survey and look forward to working with the government and in the parliament to deliver reforms that will address these important issues.”
Dr McGirr said 84 per cent of respondents had felt increased pressure on their household budget – a clear indication that easing those pressures should be a priority of all governments.
The majority of respondents (63 per cent) did not think there was a variety of housing available locally to suit different needs.
Many respondents (59 per cent) rated the condition of the roads they use locally as ‘Poor’, rather than ‘Acceptable’ or ‘Good’.
“And not surprisingly, access to quality healthcare also continues to be a priority for the community and I’ll make sure this issue remains top of mind for the government,” Dr McGirr said.
“As part of that, I have asked the Premier to prioritise the provision of mental health services to our region.”
Dr McGirr said safer and better roads, education services and housing supply would be included in budget submissions in 2025.
“In terms of education, I appreciate the government’s moves to progress plans for a new high school for Wagga’s northern suburbs, but of course, more needs to be done across the board, so I’ll continue to make the government aware of local needs,” he said.
“Another initiative I’m proud to support is Wagga Wagga City Council’s Entry Point Housing proposal and I appreciate the government’s openness to this idea as just one potential solution to a complex problem.
“Thank you to everyone who completed the survey or took the time to contact me to raise their hopes and concerns this year.
“I’m looking forward to using this feedback to deliver on the needs of the electorate in 2025 and beyond.”
Loading ...
