2024–25 ACT Budget: Investing in Inner North, Inner South, and City Regions
As the ACT’s population is expected to reach 500,000 by the end of 2027, the 2024–25 ACT Budget is strategically allocating funds to cater to the growing needs of the city. This budget aims to enhance public health services, provide relief for cost of living pressures, and improve housing accessibility and affordability.
New Inner South Health Centre
The 2024–25 ACT Budget includes investments in health programs and infrastructure, with a focus on building the new Inner South Health Centre in Griffith. This initiative aims to bring essential health services closer to residents, ensuring better accessibility and quality of care.
Expansion of Housing Options
With the Indicative Land Release Program spanning from 2024–25 to 2028–29, the ACT Government plans to address the housing needs of the growing population. Approximately 4,587 new homes are slated for development in the Inner North, Inner South, and City regions, aiming to enhance housing choice and affordability.
Infrastructure Enhancements
The 2024–25 ACT Budget will facilitate road and path improvements across the Inner North, Inner South, and City. Walkers, cyclists, and commuters can anticipate enhanced pathways with improved line markings, completed links, and increased lighting for safety and convenience.
- Progressing Light Rail Stage 2A, including extension design and construction from the existing terminus at Alinga Street to Commonwealth Park.
- Road enhancements along Beltana Road in Pialligo.
- Construction of the Garden City Cycle Route.
Electrification of Alfred Deakin High School
As part of the Electrification of Gas Assets Program, the ACT Government is committed to replacing gas-powered assets with electric alternatives in government buildings. Funding from the 2024–25 budget will facilitate cooling upgrades at Alfred Deakin High School, contributing to the goal of achieving net zero emissions from government operations by 2040.
Community Facility Upgrades
The budget supports the development and enhancement of community facilities and infrastructure in the region. Responding to community feedback, improvements will be made in ACT libraries, including the provision of portable phone chargers, power boards, and charging stations, along with enhanced building security measures.
- Completion of the Acton Emergency Services Station construction.
- Capital upgrades at the City Police Station.
- Enhancement of local shops in Narrabundah.
Enhanced Mowing and Horticulture Services
To meet the increasing demands of a growing city and unpredictable weather conditions, the budget allocates funding for additional resources in mowing and horticulture. This includes the recruitment of 10 full-time positions and eight extra mowers to bolster the city’s maintenance capacity. Mowing crews will also assist with horticultural tasks during the low season.
Educational Support
The region will benefit from the implementation of the Strong Foundations program, focusing on literacy and numeracy initiatives in ACT public schools. Additionally, school upgrades are planned as part of the annual Asset Renewal Program, including refurbishments, roof replacements, and modernization projects across various educational institutions.
For more details on the projects funded in the 2024–25 ACT Budget, visit the official website.
Conclusion
The 2024–25 ACT Budget reflects a strategic and comprehensive approach to addressing the evolving needs of the Inner North, Inner South, and City regions. By investing in health, housing, infrastructure, education, and community facilities, the government aims to create a more sustainable and inclusive environment for residents. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, these budget allocations are poised to shape a vibrant future for Canberra.
FAQs
1. How will the new Inner South Health Centre benefit residents?
The new Inner South Health Centre will provide essential health services in closer proximity to residents, ensuring improved accessibility and quality of care.
2. What are some key infrastructure enhancements planned in the budget?
The budget includes road and path improvements, progressing Light Rail Stage 2A, and the electrification of assets like Alfred Deakin High School.
3. How will the budget support educational initiatives in the region?
Educational support includes the Strong Foundations program for literacy and numeracy, along with school upgrades and modernization projects across various institutions.