UDIA National Conference

The Urban Development Institute of Australia (Victoria) has backed calls by the local councils in the growth areas for the Federal Government to provide $100 million in low cost loans and grants as a priority in the May Federal Budget.

 

Tony De Domenico Executive Director UDIA (VIC)

Tony De Domenico, Executive Director of the UDIA (VIC) said, "With low interest rates and the chance to lock in funding, it is a perfect time for the Federal Government to support the Victorian growth area councils as part of the Government's job creation strategy".

"Whilst the development industry contributes to infrastructure, the extra loan funds for councils would provide added flexibility for councils to bring facilities forward, helping to stimulate the housing market and create more employment and investment".

"The implementation of a low cost loan program for Victorian Growth Area Councils by the Federal Government is a unique opportunity to implement a program, which will have no impact on its triple AAA rating, but will create instant economic activity."

Mr De Domenico said funding for growth area councils will be a hotly debated issue at the UDIA National Congress titled Population Vision For A Nation which is to be held on March 5th to March 7th in Melbourne, with delegates visiting growth area councils in Melbourne.

"The Conference will look at Australia's capacity to cope with increased population, the demands it places on infrastructure and the current issues of funding."

The Conference will be opened by Victorian Planning Minister Matthew Guy. Speakers at the Conference will include the former Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd; Senator Kate Lundy, Federal Minister for Sport and Minister for Multicultural Affairs; Federal Shadow Minister for the Environment, Greg Hunt; Bill Kelty, former ACTU Secretary and Daniel Grollo, CEO Grocon.

Media Enquiries:
Ron Smith, Corporate Media Communications, UDIA (VIC) Mobile: 0417 329 201