STATEMENT FROM MELINA BATH MP
The Nationals Member for Eastern Victoria Region
Shadow Minister for Outdoor Recreation
“The Allan Government’s backflip on the permanent closure of Newhaven Jetty is a hard won victory — driven by unwavering community leadership and persistent political advocacy by The Nationals over the past 18 months.
I extend my sincere congratulations to Amanda Keilar, Fishing Nanna, Ben Dennis, owner of Saltwater Phillip Island, Newhaven residents and the broader Bass Coast community. Their tireless campaigning has been instrumental in forcing the Allan Government to finally listen to the community’s deep frustration and reverse its decision.
It’s a shame that it took such extensive pressure including a petition I led the debate on in Parliament, multiple FOI requests, countless parliamentary questions, a community rally and even an “unhappy first birthday” protest to achieve this outcome.
This announcement marks a dramatic shift from the Allan Government’s original stance, which stated unequivocally that there were no plans to reopen the jetty. That position was not only disappointing, but it was also unacceptable.
Newhaven Jetty should never have been closed without notice or consultation. Our outdoor recreation assets are vital to local communities and the visitor economy, and their maintenance must be treated as a priority, not an afterthought.
My focus now turns to ensuring the delivery of this project is prioritised for locals. The people of Newhaven deserve a jetty that is safe, accessible and maintained for generations to come.”
