Melbourne’s push to become a greener, more liveable city is ramping up, with more than $26 million set aside for new and upgraded parks across the CBD and inner suburbs.
The City of Melbourne’s draft 2026–27 budget outlines plans for 13 green space projects, targeting both fast-growing neighbourhoods and high-density areas where open space is under pressure.
A $5 million allocation will fast-track several local projects, including a new 2,500 square metre pocket park on Chapman Street in North Melbourne. Work is also moving ahead on expanding the Miles and Dodds Street reserve in Southbank and planning upgrades for Normanby Road.
In Kensington, a $6.4 million investment will transform a former warehouse on Chelmsford Street into a community-focused green space, designed for recreation, exercise and connection.
Further upgrades are planned in Carlton, where the next stage of the University Square redevelopment will continue, backed by a $7.8 million budget. Meanwhile, more than 5,000 square metres of new open space is earmarked for the City Road undercroft, supported by $5.5 million in funding.
The budget also reinforces long-term city-shaping projects, including continued planning for Market Square at Queen Victoria Market and a greener, more pedestrian-friendly Franklin Street connecting the precinct to the State Library area.
Along the Yarra River, the Greenline Project will continue to take shape, with additional federal funding helping to extend improvements along the north bank.
Tree planting remains a key focus, with a target of 3,000 new trees across the municipality, alongside partnerships with private developers and community groups to expand canopy coverage.
Lord Mayor Nick Reece said the investment reflects growing demand for accessible green space in a rapidly expanding city.
“Melbourne matters – and we’re leading the way as Australia’s Garden City, with 13 new and upgraded green spaces delivered at record speed and scale.”
“Melbourne is growing, and our Garden City is growing with it – from planting up to 3,000 new trees to creating new green spaces, we’re building a green legacy for a bigger, busier and more vibrant city.”
