Our community across the Monbulk District is set to benefit from a Victorian Budget that offers real, tangible support where it’s most needed.
In a time when many households are feeling cost of living pressures, the 2025/26 Budget from the Victorian Government brings welcome relief, with a strong focus on easing those pressures and investing in the places and people that make our community special.
Easing the pressures on households
With winter very much here, eligible concession card holders will receive a $100 Power Saving Bonus to help with energy bills, and for those looking to make their homes more energy-efficient, rebates for heat pumps and solar hot water systems could save households up to $400 a year.
But perhaps the biggest smile will come from our youngest residents.
From 1 January 2026, public transport will be free for all Victorians under 18 — saving families up to $755 per child each year.
Seniors will also benefit from free weekend travel across the state, making it easier to stay connected with loved ones or enjoy a day out in our beautiful region.
Supporting our kids, backing our community
Sport is more than just a pastime in Monbulk – it’s where friendships are formed and community spirit shines.
That’s why the Budget includes over 65,000 additional Get Active Kids vouchers, worth up to $200 each, to help cover the cost of uniforms, equipment, and memberships for eligible families.
A local club is also receiving a boost.
The Monbulk Rangers Soccer Club will receive up to $200,000 to upgrade lighting at their ground, which will ensure safer, more accessible facilities for players and spectators alike.
We are also providing funding to Knox Council to help with upgrades to The Basin Triangle Park to make this much-loved space even more welcoming.
Investing in learning and wellbeing
Education remains a cornerstone of this Budget, with funding to kick-start planning on brand new facilities at Sherbrooke Community School, including a new STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) learning facility to inspire the next generation of scientists, artists, and innovators.
The Free Kinder program will continue, saving families up to $2600 per child and supporting over 150,000 families across Victoria.
It’s a commitment to giving our littlest learners the best start in life.
Healthcare access is also getting a boost.
With $18 million invested in pharmacy care, local pharmacists will be able to treat more everyday conditions, like allergies and high blood pressure, without the need for a GP visit.
And the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department, will now become a permanent and expanded service.
It has already helped 83 per cent of patients avoid unnecessary hospital trips, delivering care from the comfort of their home.
Strengthening our emergency services
In times of crisis, our SES and CFA volunteers are the first to respond.
This Budget recognises their vital role, with $150,000 allocated for essential equipment to keep the lights on and communications ongoing when the power and mobile towers go down.
This will help ensure our emergency services remain strong, connected, and ready to protect us when we need them most.
If you would like further information on other ways the Budget is helping households with cost of living relief, please visit my website and feel free to sign up for my monthly newsletter if you wish – danielademartino.com.au
