Partnering to deliver community projects

Better access to mental health services, funding for an Aboriginal Gathering Place, a regional sports and aquatic facility and improved roads are just some of the projects the City of Whittlesea is advocating to the Australian and Victorian governments for funding support.

Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson said Council relied on partnerships with other levels of government to bring many important projects to fruition.

“The City of Whittlesea is one of Melbourne’s largest and most diverse municipalities.  Its population is expected to grow from 230,000 people to 388,000 people by 2041. This significant and rapid growth means we have many essential projects we need to deliver for our residents and businesses to ensure they can stay well, healthy and thrive,” she said.

“Councils do have a limited budget which is why we work closely with all levels of government and advocate for a share of funding to help us deliver more.”

Council has recently revised its advocacy priorities which tackle challenges including the need for more infrastructure, high demand for services, areas of social disadvantage and balancing the needs of rural and urban areas.

The City of Whittlesea is advocating to the Australian and Victoria governments as well as industry partners for support for the following projects, which align with Council’s Whittlesea 2040 goals.

 

Connected Community
We want to be a city that welcomes and includes everyone, and where we are inspired and work together to make it a better place.

• Improved local mental health services
• Gambling reform
• Greater investment in local family violence programs, counselling and crisis support
• Funding support for a purpose-built Aboriginal Gathering Place
• Funding support for a regional sports and aquatic facility in Mernda

 

Liveable neighbourhoods
We want the City of Whittlesea to be well-planned and beautiful. The neighbourhoods and town centres are convenient and vibrant places to live, work and play.

• E6 Freeway to relieve congestion and cater for rapidly growing communities
• Improvements to major suburban roads
• A train line to Wollert
• Improved bus services
• Extend Tram Route 86 to Plenty Valley Town Centre
• More social and affordable housing

 

Strong Local Economy
We want to be a city that is the smart choice for innovation, business growth and industry investment.

• Advancing the Melbourne Food Innovation and Export Hub (MFIX)
• Support for the Beveridge Intermodal Freight Terminal (BIFT) – the City of Whittlesea has welcomed the Federal Government’s recent announcement of $1.2 billion investment into BIFT
• Improved mobile and broadband connectivity including addressing black spots

 

Sustainable environment
We highly value our natural spaces; our trees, landscapes, waterways and the wildlife around us.

• Protecting and improving biodiversity and community connection to nature
• Improved sustainable land management outcomes
• Investigating the feasibility of integrated water management
• Support for the creation of a circular economy
• Urgently protect the Grassy Eucalypt Woodlands

Visit www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/advocacy for more detail on the City of Whittlesea Advocacy Priorities 2022-2023.