There are a number of issues that people across Wannon regularly raise with me, and many of them come back to a simple question: how do we make sure our region has the people, infrastructure and investment it needs to keep growing and moving forward?
One of the most immediate concerns is access to workers. Farmers, tourism operators, hospitality businesses and other regional employers have been contacting me about ongoing delays in processing Working Holiday Maker visas. With the summer harvest and holiday season approaching, this is becoming increasingly urgent.
Businesses plan around these seasonal peaks every year. They need to know they will have the workers required when crops are ready to be harvested, machinery needs to be operated and visitors arrive in our region.
I have been calling on the Government to clear the backlog and provide businesses with greater certainty about when applications will be processed.
On a more positive note, there is good news for local community organisations, with funding now available for projects that make a real difference in their communities.
Applications are now open for Round 10 of the Stronger Communities Programme, with grants of between $2,500 and $20,000 available for eligible projects. We have previously seen how relatively modest investments can help local groups upgrade facilities, purchase equipment and deliver projects that benefit their broader communities.
I encourage community organisations in Hamilton and around the district to look at the programme and consider whether they have a project that could benefit. Expressions of interest close at 5pm on Friday, 13 November. Full details including guidelines and an Expressions of Interest form can be found on the Community Hub of my website, www.dantehan.com.au.
Another issue affecting virtually every local household and business is the cost and reliability of energy.
As Shadow Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction, I recently presented the Coalition’s plan for cheaper, reliable power. The plan is built around three principles: affordability, reliability and security, and proposed changes including removing the legislated Net Zero target, lifting the legislative ban on nuclear energy and supporting a broader range of energy technologies.
This matters in a region like ours. Energy is a significant input for farmers, manufacturers, hospitality businesses and households, and reliable supply is essential for businesses to keep operating. Our local businesses should be able to focus on employing people, investing and growing, rather than worrying about whether they can afford their energy bills or whether the power will stay on.
Finally, a quick reminder that nominations for my 2026 Wannon Sport and Volunteer Awards close at 11.59pm this Sunday, 4 October.
If there is someone in your community who gives their time generously, achieves something special in sport or simply makes Wannon a better place, I encourage you to nominate them via the home page of my website: www.dantehan.com.au The awards ceremony will be held in Hamilton on 19 November.
ENDS
Contact: Sandie Gustus M | 0408 564 232 E | sandie.gustus@aph.gov.au
Published 2 October 2026, Hamilton Spectator