Media Release - Peri Urban Priorities Recognised in Federal Budget

Peri Urban Councils Victoria (PUCV) has tonight welcomed investment in housing and community infrastructure as part of this year’s Federal Budget.

PUCV Chair Cr Moira Berry said the Budget demonstrates that the Federal Government has heard the concerns of Peri Urban Councils Victoria and is responding with targeted investment.

“Peri Urban Councils Victoria have been consistently calling for investment in programs that will improve housing supply across our member councils as well as liveability infrastructure that supports this growth,” Cr Berry said.

Cr Berry said the Government’s $2 billion Local Infrastructure Fund directly addresses one of the most pressing challenges facing fast‑growing peri urban communities.

“Unlocking new housing supply depends on delivering the roads, water, sewerage, power and local infrastructure that make development possible. This investment is a critical step toward meeting the needs of our growing communities.”

PUCV also welcomed the $750 million allocated for further rounds of the Thriving Suburbs and Growing Regions programs.

“These programs are vital for councils delivering the community facilities and local infrastructure residents rely on as populations expand,” Cr Berry said.

She also noted the importance of the continued investment in the Active Transport Fund, with $50 million per year ongoing.

“Walking and cycling connections are essential infrastructure in peri‑urban communities. They link residents to schools, town centres, public transport, jobs and services, and support healthier, more connected communities.” She said

PUCV further welcomed the Budget’s investment in rail infrastructure for Melbourne’s growing west, including funding for the Melton Line in partnership with the Victorian Government. 

“The rail upgrades are critical for peri‑urban and growth‑area communities. Better rail connections reduce congestion, improve access to jobs and services, and support sustainable housing growth,” Cr Berry said.

PUCV said it will continue to work with the Federal Government and advocate for priorities that support growing peri urban areas.

“This budget takes good steps to acknowledge the needs of the fast growing peri urban areas but more work needs to be done," Cr Berry said. 

Addressing telecommunication services as essential to liveability will continue to be an area we advocate for to ensure services meet the needs of our growing population, Cr Berry said.

Key initiatives announced that impact peri urban communities include:

Liveability Programs

• $750 million over four years for the Thriving Suburbs and  Growing Regions Program to fund community infrastructure that supports economic growth and liveability in growing regions.

Housing

• $2 billion over four years for the Local Infrastructure Fund, via states to accelerate local housing‑enabling infrastructure such as roads, water, sewerage and power.

Roads and Transport Connectivity

• $76.4m for Melton Line Electrification

• $50m for Western Freeway Upgrade (Melton – Caroline Springs).

• Active Transport Fund, $50m per year for investment in walking and cycling paths, directly aligned to peri‑urban active transport needs.