Federal Member for Lyne Alison Penfold is inviting local councils, businesses, community organisations and residents to contribute to her next pre-budget submission to the Albanese Government.
Ms Penfold said the pre-budget submission would build on her ongoing work with communities across Lyne to identify local funding needs and push for greater Federal Government investment in the region.
She said since being elected, she had been out talking with local councils, businesses, community groups and residents about the challenges they faced and the projects and services our communities needed.
“I've been taking those concerns directly to Government ministers, raising them in Parliament and making the case for our region at every opportunity,” Ms Penfold said.
“A pre-budget submission is another way to put those priorities directly before the Government as it decides where taxpayer funds should be spent.
“My first submission brought together many of the concerns I had been hearing across Lyne, including the need for better health and aged care services, safer roads, more community infrastructure and greater support for local councils.
“I also called for changes to Federal Government funding programs to better meet the needs of regional Australia.
“I was pleased the Government's 2026–27 Budget included $750 million for new rounds of the Growing Regions and Thriving Suburbs programs, along with a new $2 billion Local Infrastructure Fund to help councils provide the roads, water and sewerage infrastructure needed to unlock new housing.
“There were welcome steps as both decisions were consistent with recommendations I put forward in my submission, but there is still much more to do.
“Lyne has an ageing population, significant gaps in health services, extensive road networks and communities still recovering from the devastating floods of 2025.
“Our councils and community organisations are working hard to meet these challenges, but they need greater support.
“I'm already working with many organisations to advance their funding priorities, and I want this next submission to strengthen the case I've been making.”
Ms Penfold said she was inviting further input because she wanted to make sure no worthwhile project, community need or sensible policy change was overlooked.
“Whether it's a community facility which needs upgrading, a road or bridge which needs attention, a gap in local services or a government policy that isn't working, I want to hear about it,” she said.
“Please tell me what needs to be done, why it matters and, where possible, how much it would cost.
“This isn't the only way I advocate for our communities, and it certainly won't be the last, but it is another important opportunity to bring our priorities together and reinforce the case for Federal Government support.
“Not every project will receive funding, but the more evidence we can put before the Government, the stronger our case will be.
“People across Lyne deserve their fair share of Federal Government funding, and I'll keep fighting to make sure our needs are heard.”
To provide input, please go to the 2027-28 Pre-Budget Submission tab on Ms Penfold’s website, or contact the office on 6586 4462 for the submission pro-forma. Submissions are due by COB Tuesday 8 December.
Ms Penfold's previous 2026-2027 pre-budget submission is available at www.alisonpenfold.com.au
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