By VANESSA CHIRCOP
HOBSONS Bay is only expected to grow by 13.35 per cent by 2031, according to new State Government population growth forecasts.
Altona is expected to grow by 6,458 residents while Williamstown is only expected to grow by 5,339 residents.
While Hobsons Bay won’t see significant growth, other western municipalities like Wyndham are expected to grow by a whopping 340,000 residents.
Western suburbs State Labor MPs, including Member for Williamstown Wade Noonan have called on the government to recognise the growth and vital transport needs in their communities in the 2012/13 State Budget.
They said Melbourne’s West would continue to attract a greater share of Victoria’s population growth.
“The government must act,” the MPs said.
“The twin benefit is that investment in transport infrastructure will create much-needed local jobs in the West.”
Altona’s jobless rate is 7.17 per cent, making it among the top 10 per cent for suburbs across Victoria, following Derrimut, Footscray and Tarneit.
“Investing in much-needed transport infrastructure is a great place to start.
“Melbourne’s West must be better connected with the rest of the city, thus reducing over reliance on the Westgate Bridge.”
The Victoria in Future 2012 shows the state’s population is expected to grow from 5.6 million to
7.3 million, with an average annual growth rate of 1.3 per cent between 2011 and 2031.
Planning Minister Matthew Guy said the new projections take account of the exceptional population growth experienced by Victoria, particularly Melbourne, between 2007 and 2009 which was particularly due to a spike in overseas migration.
“A major component of the government’s long-term plan to manage growth and change is the delivery of new affordable homes, infrastructure and conditions that encourage jobs, businesses and attract investment,” Mr Guy said.
