It’s a deal: PM visits to reveal City Deal package

THE federal government has finally revealed the size and scope of its commitment to Geelong’s City Deal, with Prime Minister Scott Morrison visiting the region on Monday to formally announce the $154 million package.

Mr Morrison and Corangamite federal member Sarah Henderson visited the 12 Apostles to detail the projects it would fund through the City Deal initiative.

They include:

• $30 million towards the $170 million Geelong Convention and Exhibition Centre
• $20.85 million towards Revitalising Central Geelong
• $3.8 million towards better road access at the Deakin University Future Economy Precinct
• $10 million towards the Queenscliff Ferry Terminal Upgrade
• $20 million towards the Glenample Visitor Experience Centre
• A $23.35 million business enablement fund to encourage private investment along the Shipwreck Coast
• $12 million towards works in the Apollo Bay Harbour Precinct Master Plan, and
• $8 million towards the redevelopment of the Point Grey Precinct in Lorne.

“This deal will be a game changer from Geelong all the way along the Coast,” Mr Morrison said.

The Prime Minister and Ms Henderson also met with community groups and supporters at the Grovedale Tigers clubrooms at Burdoo Recreation Reserve on Tuesday afternoon.

The two politicians managed to avoid being seen by the about 20 pro-refugee protesters on their way into the clubrooms by going in the back door, but could not avoid the protesters – who shouted slogans including “kids off Nauru and families too!” and “shame on you!” – on their way back to their vehicles.

City of Greater Geelong mayor Bruce Harwood welcomed the funding of projects in Geelong.

“The Convention Centre and Revitalising Central Geelong projects are both integral to moving Geelong forward as Victoria’s second largest city.

“Funding for Deakin University’s Future Economy Precinct is also welcome as we continue to position the Geelong region as a clever, creative City of Design.”

The Coalition is now working on finalising the deal with the Labor state government, which announced its $153 million commitment to the City Deal earlier this year.

Federal Labor has also pledged to contribute $153 million through its reworked City Partnerships initiative if it wins the next federal election.