The City of Melbourne has outlined its key priorities to bounce back bigger and better to support residents, businesses and visitors, ahead of the 2022 Federal and Victorian elections.
Lord Mayor Sally Capp said Council is powering ahead with a range of ambitious initiatives.
“Prior to COVID-19, the City of Melbourne was the engine room of Victoria’s economy – and we must deliver bold ideas to keep the city thriving for decades to come,” the Lord Mayor said.
“With an investment of $300 million, our flagship Greenline project would deliver more than $1 billion in economic activity and create up to 1000 jobs during construction, and countless more as tourists flow into the new city attraction.”
Recent polling of residents in electorates neighbouring the city commissioned by the City of Melbourne indicates that 69 per cent of respondents are supportive of Greenline, with 74 per cent likely to visit when it is completed.
The Lord Mayor said these Council priorities would revitalise the city and ensure it continues to be a great place to live, work and play.
“Around 60 per cent of respondents living outside the city told us it was very important to have a vibrant and active CBD,” she said.
“Major projects like Greenline, the reconstruction of Central Pier and the development of a First Nations Precinct at Federation Square would become major drawcards – driving visitation, creating jobs and boosting the local economy.
The Lord Mayor said supporting young people to prosper would ensure Melbourne retained bright, creative and hardworking people.
“Melbourne is one of the world’s best student cities – and international students contribute significantly to our economy, culture and community. We must offer them unique experiences, support services and employment pathways to welcome them back in droves,” she said.
“We’re also calling for the extension of stamp duty concessions for new properties in the CBD, improving affordability and making the idea of becoming a homeowner a reality for more Victorians.”
The City of Melbourne is also making strides with Power Melbourne, building a neighbourhood-scale battery network allowing residents who live in high-rise dwellings to install solar power in their homes.
Polling showed strong support for the project, with 68 per cent of respondents calling for greater investment in community batteries which store renewable energy.
Council’s advocacy papers can be viewed on the City of Melbourne website.
