The Riverland and Mallee community have had their say with the results of the Riverland and Mallee Community Survey released.
Member for Chaffey Tim Whetstone said the survey results will go towards improving the Riverland in the future and are vital in understanding the issues concerning the community.
“The number of respondents to the survey was fantastic and I want to thank everyone who took the time to complete it,” Mr Whetstone said. “It’s important that our community is heard, no one knows and understands what the region needs better than those who live in it.”
“I’ve received some very detailed responses and gained a better understanding of how the community feels about a range of topics.”
“The survey showed the cost of living is a key issue for many, with infrastructure spend and small business support high on the community’s priorities.
“An overwhelming 91 per cent of recipients were in support of the protection measures implemented by the State Government and understanding community views on the government’s handling of the pandemic is critical when we are recovering from the biggest health and economic crisis of our time.”
“There were many suggestions in terms of recovery from COVID-19 such as driving tourism revenue, encouraging new businesses initiatives and promoting buy local, which is a message I consistently advocate for.”
“The survey revealed that more than 70 per cent of respondents were supportive of the Murray Darling Basin Plan and we have the majority of SA irrigators using the world’s best practice to comply with the historic plan here in the Riverland.”
“Interestingly, there were mixed results for suggestions such as Uber Ride Share and introducing an inland recreational fishing licence, with 45 per cent supportive of Uber and just over 31 per cent supportive of a fishing licence.”
“There were some great suggestions around tourism such as focussing on our region’s history to attract visitors, providing training to improve customer service and the implementation of a voucher system which correlates with the State Government roll-out of the Great State Vouchers.”
“Walking trails and capping council rates have both garnered strong support, and there were themes throughout with concern around drug use in the region.”
The survey results show several people are concerned about their electricity prices, with 38 per cent of the surveys returned listing this as a major concern.
“Over 35 per cent indicated electricity prices as a major concern and our Government will continue to deliver on our commitment to lower electricity prices. The latest report from the Essential Services Commission of South Australia (ESCOSA), showed that the average residential retail offer has reduced from $2,244 to $1,975, a $269 saving since we came to government.”
“Though 51% indicated they believe health services in the region were good or very good, we know there are areas that need improvement and as the representative for the Riverland, I am committed to increasing access to health services for everyone who calls the Riverland home.”
SUMMARY OF RESULTS
The Riverland and Mallee Community Survey was run between September and November 2020.
Results from the survey include:
- 31% supportive of a recreational fishing licence.
- 38% indicated electricity prices as a major concern.
- 45% of respondents supportive of Uber ride share in the Riverland.
- 46% in support of one Riverland super council.
- 60% of respondents mentioned the Sturt Highway needed improvement.
- 71% of respondents would like to see a development of extensive walking trails between towns.
- 74% of respondents are supportive of the Murray Darling Basin Plan.
- 75% of respondents were in support of capping council rates.
- 80% of respondents were not impacted by COVID-19.
- 82% of respondents indicated they do more than 75% of their shopping locally.
- 91% of respondents support the Marshall Liberal Governments COVID-19 protection measures.
- 94% of respondents feel safe in the Riverland community.
A summary of results can be found at timwhetstone.com.au
