The Allan Labor Government is supporting local councils to build $9 million worth of new and improved community facilities in the state’s fastest growing suburbs.

Minister for Suburbs Sonya Kilkenny today announced the 14 successful projects in the Growing Suburbs Fund, to invest in community play spaces, pavilions, and centres – aiming to strengthen social connections in communities.

The projects, spanning eight local councils, are strategically positioned within areas representing 23 per cent of Victoria’s population, all of which have witnessed growth surpassing the state average over the last two decades.

Recipients include Melton City Council, which will receive $2 million towards a new open space precinct in Aintree with state of the art facilities, all-abilities playspaces, an off-lead dog park, fitness trail, skate park and soccer fields.

Mitchell Shire Council will use $2 million for a new community centre in Wallara Waters, which will help provide integrated services such as maternal and child health.

Six more councils – Hume City Council, Cardinia Shire Council, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, Whittlesea City Council, Wyndham City Council and Casey City Council were awarded funding towards a variety of projects to respond to changing community needs and demands.

The investments will support a range of local projects including improving and expanding play spaces in Craigieburn, Sunbury and Beaconsfield, delivering a community centre in West Wollert and providing public amenities in Wyndham Vale.

The Growing Suburbs Fund represents a $435 million Labor Government investment over nine years to provide critical local infrastructure.

With the 2023-24 allocation, the Fund has now supported 360 projects and created more than 11,340 jobs. For the full list of successful projects, visit: suburbandevelopment.vic.gov.au/grants/growing-suburbs-fund.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Suburbs Sonya Kilkenny

“Whether it’s parks, play spaces, sporting or health facilities, we’re delivering important infrastructure for communities in some of our fastest growing suburbs.”

“We’re investing in these growing suburbs, to ensure they remain great places to call home, where communities can thrive.”