State budget brings some local joy

Budget season can feel like a blur of big numbers and bigger promises, so it is always worth asking what it means close to home. TWiSK looks at what the State budget is set to deliver for St Kilda and nearby suburbs.

For St Kilda locals, the headline item is the long-awaited win for St Kilda Primary School. After years of campaigning, the school has secured $13.17 million for a new community hall and school oval. Families, staff and students have every reason to celebrate, although they will need to hang in there a little longer, with the hall not expected to open until 2029.

There is also good news for local kindergarten families, with the state and council confirming funding for upgrades to three more preschools. That includes the current North St Kilda Children’s Centre in Argyle Street, with works expected to be completed by 2029.

Another local service to benefit is First Step AOD in Mitford Street, which will receive $181,000 in 2026-27 to continue its integrated care work supporting people facing alcohol and other drug challenges alongside mental health concerns. Important work and money well spent, albeit a drop in the bucket.

Good news nearby

South Melbourne Primary School is also in line for a new campus, expected to open by 2029. The budget and design details are still to come, but it is another sign of investment in growing local communities.

The Port Phillip VICSES unit also has reason to smile, with funding on the table for a new facility. The exact state contribution is still being worked through as part of a broader $17.42 million package, while council has already set aside $11 million, so there may still be more discussion before the final numbers land.

Public transport users will welcome an upgrade to the route 236 bus, which runs from Garden City to Queen Victoria Market via South Melbourne. The changes include longer weekday and Saturday hours, along with new Sunday services where there were none before.

And for those who like to get around on two wheels, funding will continue for the Westgate Punt, which crosses the Yarra under the West Gate Bridge between Port Melbourne and Spotswood. Click here for details of the five-minute service, which remains a favourite with cyclists.