MP explains border confusion

A local MP is advocating with the State Government to review the boundary area included as part of the Stage 3 restrictions. 211040_12

By Jessica Anstice

It has been confirmed that Cardinia residents are able to travel to Baw Baw Shire to retrieve items that may not be readily available at their local service.

Some residents living in towns adjacent to the Baw Baw Shire are confused as to why the entire Cardinia Shire has been included as part of the health orders.

Member for Narracan Gary Blackwood is advocating with the State Government to review the boundary area included as part of the Stage 3 restrictions.

Those who live in Bunyip, Garfield and Tonimbuk often work in Baw Baw or have children who go to school in Baw Baw.

Mr Blackwood clarified that residents living in those nearby towns can in fact travel to Baw Baw Shire, however are required to follow the restrictions placed upon them as if they were still in Cardinia.

“This week my office has had a significant number of calls relating to the Covid-19 Stage 3 lock down impacting Cardinia residents,” he said.

“I’m working with residents and businesses to sort through concerns they have and I’ll be advocating with the Andrews Government to review the boundary area included as part of the Stage 3 restrictions.

“If changes can be made sooner than six weeks to help get these communities back in business I think that should be considered.”

For example, if a resident located in Bunyip heads to Drouin to collect food shopping that may not be available in Bunyip, they must return home immediately after.

But the Department of Health and Human Services advises that Cardinia Shire residents avoid crossing the boundary if possible.