The government’s overarching statement advertising the budget is ‘Focused On What Matters Most’, but how will this motto play out throughout the region?
In Benalla, $150,000 of state government funding will deliver upgrades at the Benalla Saints Football and Netball Club.
Club president Geoff Hill said the funding was a result of advocacy efforts to bring the netball courts up to standard.
“It’s fantastic for the club, and especially the netballers, because our playing area is probably retired,” he said.
“We appreciate the support that we’ve got from council and the local politicians in making this available.
“It certainly will enhance and improve the facilities that we’ve got for our netballers to play on — so we’re very excited, really looking forward to it.”
Also on the list for the region is $11.7 million for upgrades at Wangaratta High School.
Statewide, Victorians can expect $2.3 billion invested into cost-of-living-relief.
Budget highlights
- Free public transport for Victorians under 18 (to begin January 1)
- Free public transport for Victorians over 60 (to begin January 1)
- $859 million to continue free kinder
- $18 million to support food relief charities
- $100 Power Saving Bonus for eligible Victorian households with a concession card
- $18 million for pharmacists to treat more conditions without a prescription
- $152 million to increase support for families to pay for camps, sports and excursions
"With this budget – my first as treasurer – we’re focused on what matters most to Victorian families,“ state Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said.
“That means real help with the cost of living and more investment in frontline services.”
Following the budget’s release, state Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland raised a number of concerns.
Ms Cleeland said the Victoria Police budget was reduced from $4.55 billion to $4.5 billion.
“We’re hearing of stolen vehicles in Violet Town, farm break-ins near Benalla and Colbinabbin, robberies at the Murchison Community House, and widespread property damage — all while locals are left begging on community pages or contacting my office in desperation,” she said.
“It’s time the Allan Labor Government took responsibility and delivered real action to protect regional Victorians before more families and businesses suffer.”
Ms Cleeland also noted that there had been cuts to road maintenance.
“Every week I am contacted by people who have grave concerns about roads in our region... Despite these concerns, Labor has decreased their road maintenance budget once again while being happy to blame the potholes and crumbling roadsides on bad weather,” she said.
For an overview of the 2025-26 state budget, visit www.dtf.vic.gov.au/2025-26-budget-overview
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