Yarra City Council has announced its most ambitious capital works program to date, as part of the draft Budget tabled last night.  

The proposed Budget, which opens for community feedback tomorrow, aims to deliver significant infrastructure improvements that will shape the future of Yarra, ensuring it remains a vibrant, connected, and livable City. 

"This Budget represents the biggest investment in community infrastructure in Yarra’s history,” said Mayor Cr Stephen Jolly. 

"We are building the facilities that ensure our suburbs remain true communities, ensuring our residents now, and the tens of thousands more who will come to call Yarra home in the future, have access to the amenities they need." 

“This Budget also outlines a capital works program that will grow from $35.3 million in 2025/26 to $49 million in 2028/29 to ensure we are investing for our growing community.”   

Major investments in community infrastructure: 

• Leisure centre upgrades: Enhancements to the Richmond, Fitzroy and Collingwood leisure centres, including the extension of concession rates for Adult Swim and Swim, Spa and Sauna services to all Seniors Card holders, not just those with a Seniors Concession Card. 

• Alphington community infrastructure: Redevelopment of the bowls club and Yarralea Kindergarten. 

• Kevin Bartlett Reserve Pavilion: Design of a new sports pavilion in Richmond. 

• Victoria Street revitalisation: Enhance the precinct through safety interventions, greening and beautification efforts to foster economic growth to support traders.  

• Expanded cycling infrastructure: Progressing the extension of the dedicated bike lane on Wellington Street from Johnston Street to Queens Parade, as well as additional bike parking and repair stations. 

• Road safety improvements: $2.2 million allocated to new pedestrian and wombat crossings in Cremorne, Abbotsford and Alphington. 

• Fitzroy futsal ground: A new all-weather futsal facility adjacent to the public housing estate. 

• Stormwater drainage works: $4.26 million allocated to both planning and fixing stormwater drains.  

• Parks and open space enhancements: More than $5.7 million for new parks in Richmond and Collingwood, improvements to existing parks such as Garry Owen in Fitzroy, sports field upgrades, a new synthetic pitch at Kevin Bartlett Reserve, and LED lighting at Citizens Park. 

• LGBTIQA+ memorial: Community-driven initiative to recognise and honour members of the community who have taken their own lives.  

• Richmond Library improvements: Upgrades to ensure this facility continues to be loved by the community. 

Tackling public waste and household bin collection charges 

Council is also addressing public waste and household bin collection charges with a comprehensive review of bin services now and what will be delivered in the future.  

Simultaneously, Council is exploring solutions for apartment residents who currently rely on private waste services and considering an opt-out system for households with excessive bin requirements. 

Sustainable future and electric vehicles 

Significant funds have been allocated to expand electric vehicle charging points throughout Yarra, supporting the transition to sustainable transport options and four community batteries will be built. 

Addressing housing and urban development 

Council is reigniting plans for a major housing development next to Collingwood Town Hall, providing below-market rent apartments for key workers such as baristas, nurses and hospitality staff. 

Community consultation 

The Budget will be open for public consultation from 9am Thursday 24 April, with residents having until Friday 23 May to provide feedback before its final adoption in June. 

"We encourage all locals to engage with this process, share their ideas, and help shape a budget that reflects the needs of our growing community," Mayor Jolly said. 

For further information, or to provide feedback, visit Your Say Yarra.