Ms Chesters will be taking the issues and concerns of Central Victorians directly to Parliament.

For locals, the rising cost of living remains a key issue affecting many people in the community.

Labor’s plan to cut student debt by 20% will be the first Bill be tabled in the new Parliament. Over 17,000 constituents in the Bendigo electorate will benefit from the 20% cut, which will be backdated to before the most recent round of indexation.

Ms Chesters will also use the opportunity to meet with key Ministers, including the Minister for Environment, Senator Murray Watt to brief the Minister on the ongoing impact the drought is having on local water storages and discuss the urgent need to upgrade water infrastructure in Central Victoria.

Ms Chesters will also meet with relevant Ministers regarding various local Federal Election commitments, including the Minister for Veteran Affairs, Matt Keogh to discuss the next steps in delivering Federal Labor's election commitment to establish a Veterans’ and Families’ Hub in Bendigo.

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO FEDERAL MEMBER FOR BENDIGO, LISA CHESTERS MP:

"Many people in our community are doing it tough right now - that’s why I’m proud to be part of a Government that’s working to relieve the pressure on household budgets by cutting students debts.

"This is the latest measure introduced by the Federal Labor Government to help ease cost-of-living pressures.

"I am also looking forward to meeting with relevant Ministers to discuss the next steps in delivering our 2025 Federal Election commitments.

"I’m proud to be your voice in Parliament and will continue to work hard to represent locals in the best way possible."