Brimbank council has set its sights on a range of funding priorities in advance of the 2024-25 state and federal budgets next year.
Council said the 2024-25 state and federal budgets present an opportunity for council to reaffirm calls for support for projects that will deliver ’clear benefits’ for Brimbank.
Projects and priority areas which require state and federal government funding include the construction of the Melbourne Airport Rail, the implementation of the Sunshine Station Masterplan and the Albion Station rebuild which remain as a top priority for government funding.
Also included in council’s wish list for state and government funding are more investment for mental health services and health programs, improvements to parks and community facilities, improvements to pedestrian and cyclist safety as well as road safety initiatives.
Brimbank mayor Ranka Rasic said major projects, such as the Melbourne Airport Rail, Sunshine Station Masterplan and Albion Station rebuild are ‘vital’ for the economic and future growth and prosperity of the west.
“Brimbank’s full potential can only be realised when all three levels of government are working together. Council is strongly committed to advocating on behalf of our residents to address these challenges,” Cr Rasic said.
Council will continue to build on its long-time advocacy for the ‘Fix the Calder’ campaign and once again request funding for the construction of a full diamond interchange at the intersection of Calder Freeway and Calder Park Drive.
Council has detailed the need for climate emergency support infrastructure, including a solar farm in Sunshine Energy Park, a Sustainability Hub, community batteries and a storm water harvesting system at Green Gully Reserve.
Council will also look to tackle homelessness, housing and unemployment struggles within the municipality, including the provision of additional social housing and service coordination for people at risk of experiencing homelessness.
Brimbank council has produced two pre-budget submissions, which can be accessed at, www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/mr/advocacy-funding-priorities
