Melbourne’s streets will shine with more lights,
A record $2 million will be invested in our Light Up Melbourne project – which will illuminate more than half a dozen streets across the city, including some of Melbourne’s most travelled to laneways.
Hosier Lane, Collins Street and Hardware Lane – which attract millions of visitors every year – will be decked with new decorative lighting, while upgrades take place to liven hospitality hotspots Flinders Lane, Little Bourke Street and Healeys Lane.
With Greater Melbourne home to Australia’s largest Indian diaspora, more than $1.2 million will
We will bring the area to life through infrastructure, public realm upgrades, creative projects and more events – putting Little India on the map alongside Chinatown and Koreatown as a leading cultural precinct.
More multicultural activations will be bolstered with $250,000
A dedicated $200,000 will be allocated for business precinct revitalisation, where Council will work with several precinct associations to energise key areas of our city.
Cementing our status as the country’s events capital, the draft Budget invests $26 million in Melbourne’s flagship events – including New Year’s Eve, Moomba, Christmas Festival, Now or Never and Melbourne Fashion Week.
It also includes $420,000 to create
To keep our streets vibrant, dynamic and event-ready throughout the year, Council will allocate $2.6 million to
We will also bolster Melbourne’s thriving creative scene – including $4.
The draft Budget 2026–27 will be announced on Tuesday 31 March, with public consultation to follow until Tuesday 28 April.
Quotes attributable to Lord Mayor Nick Reece
“Melbourne matters – that’s why we’re backing the businesses, events and culture that create jobs and power our economy.”
“From our iconic laneways to the Paris end of Collins Street, we’re investing in the latest lighting technology to secure Melbourne’s status as a nighttime capital and create a major visitor drawcard.”
“We’re uplifting our streets, strengthening our cultural precincts and creating a city that feels brighter, safer and more vibrant for everyone.”
Quotes attributable to Tourism and Events portfolio head Councillor Mark Scott
“We’re set to deliver another year of blockbuster events – bringing millions into the city to stay, spend and support local businesses.”
“Every event offers something unique, but this year we’re especially focused on strengthening our multicultural events and delivering more festivals across Melbourne.”
Quotes attributable to Creative and Arts portfolio head Councillor Philip Le Liu
“By investing in world-class artist-led projects and grassroots talent, this Budget reinforces Melbourne as the nation’s arts and culture capital.”
“As Australia’s most multicultural city, we’re taking big steps to make Little India a reality – investing in our creative and cultural future, because it’s at the heart of who we are.”
