Council welcomes $2.2 million Youth Centre election commitment
Published on 01 October 2026
The City of Whittlesea has welcomed a $2.2 million funding commitment from the Victorian Labor Party towards a new purpose-built Youth Centre in South Morang.
Labor Candidate for Mill Park Elizabeth Nealy announced that a re-elected Labor Government would invest $2.2 million towards the Youth Centre following a Youth-Led Roundtable with local young people.
The announcement is an important step towards delivering a dedicated Youth Centre at the Civic Precinct in South Morang, across the road from South Morang Station.
Council has identified the Youth Centre as a key advocacy priority and has committed up to $6 million across future budgets towards its delivery. Council selected the Civic Centre (South) site following a business case that assessed accessibility, safety, opportunities for youth-led design, community integration and long-term feasibility.
The Youth Centre will provide a safe, welcoming and inclusive place where young people can connect, access programs and services and participate in activities supporting their wellbeing, development and pathways into education and employment.
Importantly, young people have been at the heart of the project, helping shape the proposed location and service model and leading Council’s advocacy campaign for government investment.
Council will continue to advocate to all candidates ahead of the Victorian State Election for support to deliver the Youth Centre.
Quotes attributable to City of Whittlesea Mayor, Councillor Lawrie Cox
“This commitment is a fantastic result for our young people, who have been at the heart of our campaign for a purpose-built Youth Centre.”
“Our young people have told us they need a safe and welcoming place where they can connect, access support, build skills and simply spend time together, and we have listened.”
“Council has committed up to $6 million towards the Youth Centre and we welcome this $2.2 million commitment. We will continue working with all candidates to secure the support needed to deliver this important facility for our young people.”
Quote attributable to City of Whittlesea Youth Councillor Dhyani Bhavsar
“As a fellow young person myself, a Youth Centre in our municipality was long overdue.”
“This exciting opportunity gives us young people around Whittlesea a chance to grow, connect, and learn safely!”
“It’s incredible that the Labor state government is on board with this — a commitment of 2.2 million upon re-election is outrageous, and we as a community are so appreciative."