The Victorian Government will spend $17 million to build or upgrade 97 parks across the state, with funding focused on Train and Tram Activity Centres, Priority Precincts and suburbs experiencing housing growth.
Minister for Development Victoria and Precincts Harriet Shing announced the first round of the Pick My Park program at Clarke Reserve Play Space in Elwood, which will receive a $250,000 upgrade to play equipment and accessibility.
The projects are located in precincts linked to the Suburban Rail Loop and in growth areas across Melbourne, Bendigo, Ballarat and Geelong. The government said the funding responds to community feedback about the need for accessible open space in expanding neighbourhoods.
“These investments across our growing communities are making life easier, more affordable and more enjoyable, by delivering new parks and playgrounds closer to home,” Ms Shing said.
More than 2,000 Victorians submitted ideas under the Pick My Park initiative. The government then worked with local councils and land managers to develop the final list of projects.
“We’ve listened to the community and we’re delivering the parks and playgrounds that families want in some of our fastest growing suburbs,” Ms Shing said.
The announcement comes as the state plans for increased housing density around public transport. By 2051, train and tram zones are expected to accommodate more than 300,000 new homes, with final plans for 50 new centres due by mid-year.
The Suburban Rail Loop is projected to support 70,000 new homes across six station precincts, aimed at placing housing within walking distance of transport, employment, study and open space.
Ms Shing linked the park upgrades to broader housing policy, saying, “While the Liberals shut millennials out of the housing market and push them to the outer suburbs, we’re making housing more affordable and communities more liveable.”
Member for Southern Metropolitan Region Ryan Batchelor said local green spaces were essential as suburbs expand.
“Our growing suburbs deserve great local spaces. These new parks will give families more room to relax, play and spend time together close to home,” he said.
The government said the program will deliver new pocket parks, upgraded playgrounds, outdoor fitness equipment and accessibility improvements to ensure residents have access to open space within their communities.
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