Finnis MP David Basham says the south coast electorate has been neglected in last week’s state budget.

He says the only new funding is for the Victor Harbor Ambulance Station and a TAFE upgrade shared with Mount Barker.

“Good news is that projects formerly budgeted by the Liberal government have not been cut this budget. 

“Disappointing news is how little new investment is in our region when compared with more than $150 Million new spend in our neighbouring Labor seat of Mawson.” 

Mr Basham says the former government budgeted $15.43 Million to expand the South Coast District Hospital Emergency Department from six beds to 14 beds and the previous ED unit will be refurbished for a Renal Unit. 

“Improvement to the local hospital is critical to support community members receiving quality health care close to home and reducing the load on ambulance traffic”. 

He says funding for the upgrade of the Goolwa Ambulance Station was also budgeted for by the previous Liberal Government. 

He notes that the new Labor government has carried over the Liberal commitment of $5.74 million to complete works on the Granite Island Causeway this financial year. 

But he has criticised foreshadowed spending cuts, saying the budget shows a disregard for the electorate of Finniss.

“State-wide there is a $15.9 Million reduction in the Primary Industries allocation. 

“Programs and services will need to be cut, but we are yet to be advised about this. 

“This budget is not good enough for our region.” 

Mr Basham says the previous Labor Government neglected health, roads, and projects in the district over 16 years.

“By contrast, the last four years more than $125 Million was spent in the Finniss electorate to create, maintain, or upgrade schools, clubs, roads, hospital, open spaces and support businesses. 

Formerly a safe Liberal seat, Finniss became marginal at the March state election; Mr Basham retained the seat by 343 votes from Independent candidate Lou Nicholson.