Independent candidate for Monash Deb Leonard has promised to support the local call for funding for the new Recreation Reserve on the corner of Phillip Island and Ventnor roads.

Deb met with Peter Paul and Glenn Plymin from Island Voice recently to discuss their vision for Phillip Island and how she could assist if she was elected to federal parliament.

The meeting focused on the urgent need for funding for the Recreational Reserve, with all parties agreeing Bass Coast Shire Council's 20-year strategy was inadequate for the community's needs.

Key issues raised included the Phillip Island Football Netball Club (PIFNC) having to turn away members due to capacity restraints.

"This flies in the face of plans to get kids off social media," said Glenn, who is also secretary of PIFNC.

"Sport is a proven avenue of improving mental health. Turning kids away from participation in team sports is a huge, potential life changing issue."

The Phillip Island Cricket Club is also affected, often being forced off their home ground due to poor surface quality.

Delivering the Aquatic Centre as soon as possible is also a key focus for Deb, who is bringing up two children on the island.

"We need to be able to teach our kids to swim," says Deb.

"Not everyone can afford swimming lessons. Surrounded by the ocean, this is a safety issue for our community.

"As a long-time Phillip Island resident, I've seen the population growth over the years.

"We must ensure we cater to this growing community by providing quality recreational facilities that promote both physical and mental health and positive social connection."

Deb highlighted the lack of attention given to Monash by the major parties when it comes to sports facility funding, and pointed to Helen Haines as an example of how independents can deliver for their communities.

"Haines has secured millions of dollars in federal funding for sports clubs in her electorate of Indi, in addition to funding for roads, telecommunications and health services," Deb said.

"When you speak to people from Indi, they tell you how much the region has benefited since being represented by an independent.

"Here in Monash, we've been ignored by both major parties when it comes to funding.

"The people of Phillip Island have never had a pool, and the Wonthaggi pool is in disrepair."

She said facilities at Tarwin Lower and Drouin also desperately needed an upgrade.

"If elected, I'll fight for our fair share of federal funding to improve sporting facilities across our region."

Deb said she and Island Voice are aligned in advocating for funding to commence work on the Phillip Island Recreation Reserve as a matter of priority.