The Nationals’ Member for Mildura, Jade Benham, says the Cladding Safety Victoria Repeal Bill 2026 marks an opportunity to refocus attention on one of the most pressing challenges facing regional Victoria: housing supply.
Speaking in Parliament on the Bill, Ms Benham highlighted how the repeal could allow governments to focus on unlocking housing for communities that need it most.
“Cladding Safety Victoria was established in response to a specific crisis in high-rise buildings, but its repeal should now shift the conversation to broader housing needs across the state,” Ms Benham said.
“In regional towns, the challenge is making sure families, teachers, healthcare workers and essential services can find a home where they can live, work and contribute to their communities.”
Ms Benham said there are numerous potential development sites sitting idle across the Mildura electorate, waiting for planning approval. “These blocks of land could be unlocked and turned into homes quickly. Clear planning pathways and support from local government are all that is needed.”
Ms Benham highlighted the disused Department of Education land on Hunt Street, Ouyen, which she has been advocating to see released and sold since being elected.
“Redeveloping sites like this can create modern, fit-for-purpose housing for teachers, nurses, and other essential workers who are vital to our towns,” Ms Benham said.
“Getting these sites approved and developed creates more than just housing. It brings people into towns, supports local businesses and strengthens communities. Every home built means a teacher, a nurse, or a family can stay, work and contribute locally,” she said.
Ms Benham called on the Allan Labor Government to act. “Now is the time to stand behind regional Victorians and deliver practical housing solutions. There are opportunities ready to go, like Hunt Street in Ouyen, that can make a real difference today.”
“Now is the time for the Allan Labor Government to stand behind regional Victorians and deliver real housing solutions.”
