Three new high-quality facilities for community sport, families and the arts are on the way for Cardinia thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund.

Local Government Minister Shaun Leane has announced Cardinia Shire Council will receive $3.3 million towards three different projects from the 2021 round of the Fund, which helps Melbourne’s rapidly developing interface and peri-urban councils deliver high-quality facilities for their communities.

The three projects are:

• $1.6 million for a community pavilion at Koo Wee Rup Bowling Club, improving facilities for bowlers and providing two new rooms for community use.
• $1.5 million for a new family centre at Brunt Road in Officer, with three kindergarten rooms for three- and four-year olds and maternal and child health service facilities.
• $180,000 towards a new outdoor performance space at Alma Treloar Reserve in Cockatoo.

First launched in 2015, the Growing Suburbs Fund has now committed $29.5 million to 17 different projects across Cardinia Shire, including the major redevelopment of the Cardinia Cultural Centre.

Since its establishment in 2015, the Growing Suburbs Fund has facilitated $913.2 million in local infrastructure, created more than 8,880 jobs and supported 253 projects across Melbourne’s fastest-growing areas.

For more information on the Growing Suburbs Fund and other local government grants programs, visit www.localgovernment.vic.gov.au

Quotes attributable to Minister for Local Government, Shaun Leane

“Every Growing Suburbs Fund project we support helps deliver vital facilities, creates jobs and makes a real difference for our fastest-growing communities.”

“These three projects show the range of ways the Growing Suburbs Fund can support communities – whether it’s a new kindergarten, an arts venue or a bowls club, everyone can benefit.”

Quote attributable to Member for Bass, Jordan Crugnale

“I’m delighted the Victorian Government has continued its support for our thriving community through projects like the Koo Wee Rup pavilion and the Brunt Road family centre.”

Quote attributable to the Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing

“We know Cardinia is a great place to live, and since 2015 the Growing Suburbs Fund has made it an even better one – these new investments will be great for families, children and everyone in our community.”