Welcome to the first edition of NCA Snapshot for 2025.

 

This year, our focus remains firmly on advocating for the services and infrastructure that will strengthen communities across the seven municipalities that comprise Melbourne’s north.

 

Transport continues to be a pressing issue for us, and we are working hard to push for more frequent bus services, seamless connections between different transport options, duplication and extension of the Upfield Line to Wallan, and better access to jobs, healthcare and education.

 

Recently, we welcomed an announcement from the Federal Government that $7.05 million had been allocated for a business case to uplift services on the Craigieburn and Upfield lines, to improve transport options along the Northern Growth Corridor. And at a previous announcement, the Federal Coalition committed $2 million for the NCA to develop a scoping report on the duplication, electrification and extension of the Upfield Line to Wallan.

 

With upcoming elections at both federal and state levels, our advocacy has never been more important. We’ll continue to champion the priorities that matter most to our region – supporting sustainable growth, investment in major infrastructure and planning for a more connected future.

 

At our February meeting, Merri-bek City Council was elected NCA Host Council for 2025. As the incoming Chair of the NCA, I’m delighted to extend a warm welcome to our newly elected Mayors.

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While we all serve our municipalities to the best of our ability, it’s great to also be part of this regional body that collaborates to provide a framework for the future of our region. Their leadership will be invaluable as we work together to make a lasting impact.

 

You can read our statement here.

 

My sincere thanks to Banyule City Council, in particular outgoing Mayor Cr Tom Melican and current CEO Allison Beckwith, for their stewardship and commitment to the NCA throughout 2024.

 

I look forward to what we can achieve in the year ahead.

 

Cr Helen Davidson
Chair, NCA