Focusing our regional advocacy

Ahead of the Victorian state election, the 7 Mayors from Melbourne’s north have agreed on a shared set of regional priorities to underpin a coordinated advocacy effort with governments.

A new set of documents has been designed, highlighting the projects and the positive impact these priorities will have on our region.

They address some of the most pressing infrastructure challenges facing us. NCA Chair and Mayor of the City of Whittlesea, Cr Lawrie Cox, said the agreement reflects a strong commitment to working together to secure the investment needed for local communities.

“This is 7 Councils speaking with one voice,” Cr Cox said. “We know our region, we know what’s needed and we’re ready to work with government to deliver it.”

With population growth accelerating across Melbourne’s north, infrastructure has struggled to keep pace. A key priority continues to be for a major upgrade to the region’s bus network, with Councils calling for a connected, high-frequency system to better link people to jobs, education and services.

Another significant need is the duplication, extension and electrification of the Upfield rail line to Wallan, to improve access to jobs and services in growth communities and reduce pressure on overcrowded roads.

We are also advocating for expansion of the Hume Freeway to ease congestion hotspots and support freight movement, as well as for long-term planning and protection of the Outer Metropolitan Ring Road (OMR) / E6 corridor to strengthen future connections.

We continue to call for land acquisition in the Cloverton precinct in Kalkallo to begin planning for a new outer north hospital that will meet growing demand for health services, and to roll out an Inclusive Employment Program to connect local people with local jobs.

Active transport upgrades across the region are also important, so we are asking for the delivery of the Northern Trails network of shared paths.

In addition, we were one of the first regions to consider the infrastructure requirements of supporting the transition to electric vehicles through investment in charging infrastructure, alongside support for active transport options. A region-wide plan is already in place, positioning Melbourne’s north to move quickly with targeted investment.

Cr Cox said the priorities reflect both immediate needs and long-term planning.

“Our communities are growing fast, and they deserve infrastructure and services that keep up,” he noted. “We’re prepared and we’re keen to see action from governments.”

Our advocacy priority documents can be found here: