Melbourne’s streets are set to get brighter, busier and more event-focused, with a record $2 million investment earmarked to light up key parts of the CBD under the City of Melbourne’s draft budget for 2026-27.
The Light Up Melbourne project will see decorative lighting rolled out across some of the city’s most visited areas, including Hosier Lane, Collins Street and Hardware Lane. Popular hospitality strips like Flinders Lane, Little Bourke Street and Healeys Lane are also in line for upgrades, aimed at drawing more foot traffic after dark.
It’s part of a broader push to make the city feel more active at night, while also backing local businesses that rely on steady visitor numbers.
“Melbourne matters – that’s why we’re backing the businesses, events and culture that create jobs and power our economy,” Lord Mayor Nick Reece said.
“From our iconic laneways to the Paris end of Collins Street, we’re investing in the latest lighting technology to secure Melbourne’s status as a nighttime capital and create a major visitor drawcard.”
Beyond the CBD, the plan includes more than $1.2 million to continue developing a Little India precinct in Docklands. The goal is to build it into a recognisable cultural destination, alongside established areas like Chinatown and Koreatown, through a mix of infrastructure, events and creative projects.
Councillor Philip Le Liu said, “As Australia’s most multicultural city, we’re taking big steps to make Little India a reality – investing in our creative and cultural future, because it’s at the heart of who we are.”
Events remain a major focus, with almost $26 million allocated to flagship festivals including New Year’s Eve, Moomba, Christmas Festival, Now or Never and Melbourne Fashion Week. A further $250,000 will support a new multicultural events stream, while $200,000 is set aside to help revitalise business precincts across the city.
The draft budget also includes funding for arts grants, public art projects and new Christmas decorations in City Square, alongside ongoing upgrades to banner infrastructure across the CBD.
Public consultation on the 2026–27 budget opens this week, giving residents and businesses a chance to weigh in before it’s finalised.
