Wednesday, 21 May 2025
This year’s Budget is delivering practical measures to help families in the Williamstown electorate with the pressure of rising costs.
From 1 January 2026, public transport will be free for all Victorians under 18, saving families up to $755 per child each year. Whether it’s getting to school, weekend sport, or catching up with friends, free travel will make a real difference to the weekly budget and ease transport costs for parents and carers.
The Budget also introduces free weekend public transport for Victorians over 60 with a Seniors Card. This gives older residents more freedom to connect with loved ones and get out and about without having to factor in the cost of a train or tram fare.
In a major boost for public transport, the Metro Tunnel will open this year creating room for more services across the network. That includes two extra peak-hour trains per hour on the Werribee line, increasing frequency from six to eight services each hour. With five new underground stations and a redesigned City Loop, the Metro Tunnel is a significant investment in making our transport system more reliable and efficient.
Locally, we are investing in the future of community sport. A $100,000 planning grant will help develop a new vision for Duane Reserve in Brooklyn, home to the much-loved Altona North Soccer Club. These upgrades will ensure the club has the facilities it needs to grow and continue welcoming players and supporters for years to come.
We are also increasing support for kids to get active, with more than 65,000 extra Get Active Kids vouchers available. Each voucher is worth up to $200 and helps cover the cost of memberships, fees, and essential equipment, making it easier for families to keep kids involved in sport and recreation.
Funding for the new Footscray Hospital set to open this year will strengthen healthcare across Melbourne’s west by reducing wait times and improving access to care for our local community.
This Budget also invests $18 million into healthcare to expand the role of community pharmacists, so Victorians can be treated for more conditions without needing a doctor’s appointment. Services will include treatment for allergies, nausea, high blood pressure, minor wounds, with free of charge consultations. There are 12 participating pharmacies across the Williamstown electorate with further details available at: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/community-pharmacist-pilot
For many households, energy bills are another source of stress. That’s why we’re expanding rebates for solar hot water systems and efficient heat pumps helping more families cut their bills by up to $400 a year. Eligible concession card holders will also receive a $100 Power Saving Bonus before winter to help with rising energy costs. My office is always available to provide support with applications.
Quotes attributable to Member for Williamstown Melissa Horne
‘This funding means we can start shaping Duane Reserve to meet the growing needs of the Altona North Soccer Club, local families, and future generations in the west.’
‘Free public transport for under 18s will also be a game-changer for families in Williamstown, making school drop-offs and weekend trips much easier and affordable.’
Ends.
Media contact: melissa.horne@parliament.vic.gov.au
