By Olivia Condous
In the lead up to the annual federal government budget Moorabool and Melton councils are calling on government funding for a variety of projects over the next year.
Moorabool council has announced four main priorities it hopes to receive funding for.
The projects include a $10 million sewerage system for the townships of Bungaree and Wallace, a reinvigoration of the Bacchus Marsh Civic Precinct, a 1000 step walking track as part of ongoing development of Bald Hill in Darley and a new Moorabool Aquatic and Recreation Centre in Bacchus Marsh.
The plans for the new recreation centre in Bacchus Marsh include an indoor sports stadium, a regional bowls facility and an indoor aquatic centre.
In Melton, the council is seeking funding for a variety of transport projects such as the construction of the Western Intermodal Freight Terminal, upgrades to major roads, the Outer Metropolitan Ring project and electrification of the Melton Line.
The City of Melton is also hoping to receive full funding for the long-awaited Melton Hospital.
Earlier this year, mayor Goran Kesic said the growing population in the area meant developments in transport for the region were vital to maintain liveability.
“We have a great opportunity to create easy and accessible lifestyles in the outer west, where people can work and enjoy family time close to home,” he said.
“In recently years, the state and federal governments have invested in key transformational projects in the City of Melton, and it’s critical that these partnerships continue as we become Melbourne’s fastest growing municipality.”
The federal government budget will be released on Tuesday March 29.
