More people will have access to new community spaces, affordable programs and the support they need – closer to home.
The City of Melbourne’s draft Budget 2026–27 puts community at its core, supporting families, helping children thrive and protecting our most vulnerable.
To support people doing it tough, we’re investing $2.3 million to help those at risk or sleeping rough with the care and support they need.
We’re also expanding homelessness services so people are met with care and connection, including for the first time dedicated support for those facing complex mental health challenges.
This funding will expand the city’s outreach program, explore new safe spaces, strengthen on-street support with service providers, and advocate to the Victorian Government for increased mental health and drug rehabilitation services.
More than $200,000 will be invested to help address family violence – strengthening support for victim-survivors, improving safety responses, and expanding partnerships with specialist organisations to explore options for a women’s safe refuge.
To help every child get the best start in life, we’ll invest a further $500,000 in early childhood services, while reviewing programs to target support where families need it most.
These programs will boost literacy skills and levels of physical activity in early childhood, improve access to nutritious food, and provide family-centered support including early intervention and domestic violence prevention.
We know libraries are more than just a place to borrow books – they’re hubs for learning, services and
That’s why we’re investing $2.
Across town, a $3.5 million investment will finalise designs for the
Healthy communities are at the heart of a liveable city. This Budget invests in free and affordable programs, expands initiatives that support physical and mental wellbeing, and makes it easier for people to stay active.
This includes the return of the successful $2 swim program for the third consecutive year, as well as providing 600 free swimming lessons – getting more people in the water safely.
An additional $500,000 will also be spent upgrading
The Riverslide skate park will benefit from $200,000 to
Feedback on the draft Budget 2026–27 can be provided on Participate Melbourne from 6pm on Tuesday 31 March until 6pm on Tuesday 28 April.
Quotes attributable to Lord Mayor Nick Reece
“We are investing in a Melbourne that is safer and kinder – helping our most vulnerable in a way that combines pragmatism with care. No Melburnian should be left behind”
“From Southbank to North Melbourne, we’re delivering new and upgraded community spaces and services closer to home, so people can access what they need, when they need it.”
“We’re continuing popular free and low-cost programs like swimming lessons, $2 pool entry and fitness classes – helping people stay active and healthy.”
“We’re investing in the places and services that make life better for every person living in Melbourne.”
Quotes attributable to Deputy Lord Mayor Roshena Campbell
“In an Australian first for local government, we are backing families to close the gap in developmental outcomes.
“Every child deserves the best start in life. That’s why we are investing to improve literacy skills, levels of physical activity and access to nutritious food to ensure every child can thrive in the early years.”
Quotes attributable to Community and City Services portfolio head Councillor Gladys Liu
“A fair city is one that looks after everyone – which is why we’re strengthening support for our most vulnerable community members.”
“We’re investing in new programs for rough sleepers and expanding outreach to connect more people with life-changing support and services.”
