THE NSW Government has handed down its budget with a record spending spree aimed at creating jobs and reigniting the economy in the wake of COVID-19.

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Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington told News Of The Area, “The budget has plunged into deficit and the Liberal Government is being forced to borrow billions of dollars, but very little is making its way to Port Stephens.

“Our major infrastructure projects are still stuck in the planning stage.”

During the election campaign Gladys Berejiklian pledged to duplicate Nelson Bay Road.

Ms Berejiklian, with Liberal Candidate Jaimie Abbott and then MLC, Catherine Cusack, held a media conference at the Lemon Tree Passage Roundabout where the promise was made.

“For the sixth year in a row, the Nelson Bay Road duplication has been delayed yet again.

“Our local community services aren’t receiving the extra funds they desperately need to cope with the health and economic crisis from COVID-19.

“Instead of a new public high school in Medowie, we’re getting a walkway to the new Catholic high school – which is positive, but it demonstrates that there’s still a long road ahead of us before Medowie gets its much-needed public high school,” said Washington.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro said, “This Budget is a massive win for the people of Regional NSW with crucial funding commitments to health, education and transport in our regions. The NSW Liberals and Nationals once again delivering for our regions.”

Hunter projects which will impact Port Stephens residents include the John Hunter Hospital which services the region receiving $16.0 million in 2020-21 (as part of a $780 million project) for the John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct and $2.6 million in 2020-21 (as part of an $18 million project) for the completion of the John Hunter Children’s Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Stages 2 and 3.

There is also $6 million in 2020-21 to continue the upgrade of Nelson Bay Road.

In a plus for small businesses across the hospitality industry every NSW Adult will receive four $25 Out and About Vouchers to spend in restaurants and entertainment businesses.

The vouchers can be used at participating eligible NSW businesses and venues who are registered as COVID-19 Safe.

The Government is encouraging people to access their vouchers from the Service NSW app.

The vouchers will be available early 2021.

By Marian SAMPSON