Broad presses government over idle assets

MEMBER for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad has criticised the state government over a series of stalled projects in Bendigo, saying millions of dollars are tied up in “unused and neglected assets”.

“The most glaring example is the temporary Bendigo East fire station, which was completed in 2022 but is still sitting empty years later, while firefighters continue to operate out of outdated facilities,” Ms Broad said.

She said the never-used fire station was not an isolated case, describing it as part of a broader pattern of “blatant waste and neglect” across the city.

“Locals are also deeply concerned about the former Sandhurst Centre site in Finn Street, which has been left vacant and deteriorating for nearly a decade since its closure,” she said.

The heavily vandalised complex, Ms Broad added, has become both an eyesore and an alleged hotspot for drug activity, while also posing a serious safety risk following a series of recent fires.

“This is a huge concern for nearby residents,” she said. “This land could have been put to productive community use, particularly as there is a great need for more housing in our region.”

Ms Broad also pointed to the former Bendigo Law Courts in Pall Mall, which opened in 1896 and has been vacant for more than two years.

“This beautiful old building has sat empty since 2023,” she said. “Without proper care and attention, (it’s) in danger of falling into disrepair.”

“I have repeatedly urged the government to have some meaningful consultation with the community on its future use, and I have invited the Attorney General to visit Bendigo, inspect the building and have the discussion, but again there is no action.”

Ms Broad said the disused facilities were not minor oversights but clear examples of poor planning and a lack of accountability.

“Bendigo deserves better than empty buildings and broken promises,” she said.