MEDIA RELEASE | 3 August 2026
Leaders from outer Melbourne councils have held a series of whirlwind meetings across the political divide, pushing for more investment and support for the outer suburbs.
Visiting the Parliament en masse to officially launch the Outer Melbourne Council’s election platform Completing Our Communities, the OMC delegation discussed its policy recommendations with;
- Roads and Community Sport Minister the Hon. Ros Spence, and MPs Josh Bull, Mathew Hilakari, Daniela De Martino and Steve McGhie (Labor).
- Shadow Local Government Minister Bev McArthur, Deputy Leader of the Opposition David Southwick, Shadow Minister for Transport Infrastructure Evan Mulholland, Leader of the Nationals Danny O’Brien and upper house Nationals MP Gaelle Broad (Coalition)
- Greens Local Government spokesperson Dr Sarah Mansfield (Greens)
Despite being home to one in four Victorians, outer Melbourne continues to experience significant infrastructure gaps, placing increasing pressure on local councils, families and businesses.
The OMC platform sets out a practical agenda for delivering more liveable, connected and productive communities.
“Families shouldn’t have to wait years for roads to be upgraded, spend hours commuting, or miss out on community facilities simply because of where they live,” said Cr Naomi Joiner, Chair of OMC.
“Investing in these communities isn’t optional. It’s essential if we want a more productive, connected and prosperous state.”
The platform contains specific recommendations around local transport upgrades, and proposes new measures to drive economic growth, boost housing supply and deliver community infrastructure.
Specific asks are broken down in the platform by the state electorate it covers: Bass, Berwick, Broadmeadows, Bundoora, Cranbourne, Croydon, Eildon, Eltham, Euroa, Evelyn, Greenvale, Kalkallo, Kororoit, Laverton, Macedon, Melton, Mill Park, Monbulk, Narre Warren North, Narre Warren South, Pakenham, Point Cook, Sunbury, Sydenham, Tarneit, Thomastown, Warrandyte, Werribee and Yan Yean.
The OMC region represents more than 1.6 million residents across Melbourne’s outer suburbs, covering the communities of the Cardinia, Casey, Hume, Melton, Mitchell, Nillumbik, Whittlesea, Wyndham and Yarra Ranges municipal zones.
Cr Joiner said the organisation’s advocacy was about ensuring the State Election delivered tangible outcomes for outer suburban communities.
“This platform provides a clear roadmap for whichever party forms government.”
“These are practical investments that will improve liveability, support jobs and strengthen Victoria’s economy.”