The push for a second stage redevelopment at Warrnambool Base Hospital gathered momentum with $7.5 million allocated to help progress planning and designs for the $112 million project.

While the state Coalition has committed to funding the full project if it wins office next year, the Labor government’s investment is a welcome start. South West Coast MP Roma Britnell was “disappointed” the full cost was not set aside but no government is foolish enough to pledge $7.5 million for planning and then walk away. The government’s message is that it is serious about the project.

Payroll tax cuts of 25 per cent for businesses operating in regional areas are also expected to create jobs in the south-west.

The region’s roads received $113 million for much-needed upgrades and our train service could receive a $100 million injection subject to negotiations with the federal government.

Four south-west schools shared in $3.1 million for improvements. Warrnambool East Primary School will receive the bulk of the cash.

All are positives for the region, which has been crying out for more investment.

But the treasurer Tim Pallas (pictured) missed a chance to elevate this year’s budget for the region from good to great. The rail funding is not guaranteed yet.  And Warrnambool’s Special Developmental School, which desperately needs a new home, was overlooked for dollars despite the government buying a parcel of land for a new school last year. Why?

The government argues it is investing $685 million in education facilities, including six special development schools. It says there’s not enough money for every education project across the state, including Warrnambool’s $18 million proposal.

The Warrnambool school has more than 130 students and they deserve better facilities.

While our politicians have spent considerable energy advocating for the hospital and train upgrades, have they done the same for the special development school?

Did they get the region’s priorities right?

The Port Fairy Bowls Club received $2 million in the budget. The club and its members are, of course, deserving of new facilities but not ahead of the special developmental school.