The City of Melbourne has announced its biggest ever budget of $619 million for 2019–20, to help make our city more liveable and prosperous as it rapidly grows. The draft Budget includes a record $453 million for programs and services, a fully-funded $166 million capital works program, and an underlying surplus of $15.03 million. Among the major projects to be funded, the city will get on with the renewal of Queen Victoria Market, spending $15 million in 2019-20, including $6.5 million for the staged, onsite restoration of the historic sheds. A further $4.5 million has been assigned to create a master plan for the restoration of Melbourne Town Hall. The draft Budget also includes significant investments to build on the city’s ongoing commitment to families, arts and culture, greening the city and supporting people experiencing homelessness. Here are 10 highlights of the draft Budget for 2019–20, which will help us continue to create a city for people. Community facilities Families will see $9.3 million invested to complete the redevelopment of Lady Huntingfield Children’s Centre and deliver more early education and childcare places to make sure kids get the best start in life. Council will also spend $1.8 million to progress the fit-out of the $70 million Munro development at Queen and Therry streets. A further $1 million will go towards planning and design for the $40 million renewal of Kensington Community Recreation Centre, and upgrade sporting pavilions, courts and equipment. Open space Council will invest more than $29 million to create more places for people to exercise, play and relax in the city, including two and a half hectares of open space on Southbank Boulevard and a new park on Market Street. Knowledge Council will invest $2.8 million for key knowledge sector events and services to bolster the growth and … Continue reading Record budget builds on bright future for Melbourne