It’s Budget time and this one’s full of good things ahead.
I’m especially pleased about the investment we’re making to help grow climate-resistant communities.
This year we’ve allocated $3.9 million to implement our Climate Action Plan, including initiatives to help you cut emissions and switch to renewable energy. We’ve also committed $2.55 million to grow and protect our tree canopy and $3 million to progress new trails through our Greenways program, supporting more active and connected travel.
Alongside core services, we’re investing in key community infrastructure including $9.2 million over 3 years to upgrade Kew and Hawthorn libraries and more than $27 million across 4 years to refurbish or redevelop 7 sports pavilions.
The draft Budget 2025–26 opened for public feedback in late-April. Thanks to everyone who made a submission or spoke at our public meeting – your insights and ideas help inform what we do. The final Budget will go to councillors for adoption on 30 June. Then it’s time to get to work.
We’re also continuing to advocate strongly on planning. I recently presented to a Victorian parliamentary inquiry to raise community concerns about the Victorian Government’s planning reforms. We’re not opposed to more housing – far from it – but we believe councils, with local knowledge and strong community input, are best placed to lead this work. I called on the government to empower councils to deliver their own housing plans. When planning is done locally, there’s a better chance we can support growth while protecting tree canopy, heritage and neighbourhood character.
Meanwhile, the Victorian Government is focusing on more planning proposals including changes around Hawthorn, Auburn and Glenferrie stations and Kew Junction. If you live in or near these areas, it’s worth seeing what’s proposed and having your say before decisions are locked in.
Finally, a big thank you to our amazing councillors – out in the community, listening, advocating and helping get things done. If there’s something on your mind, we’d love to hear from you.
Cr Sophie Torney
Mayor of Boroondara