Frankston City Council has launched Frankston City First, a state election advocacy campaign calling on candidates to back more than $19 million in funding for local sport, community infrastructure, public spaces and support services.
Council says the projects would help unlock more than $46 million in total investment across Frankston City.
The campaign comes ahead of the 2026 Victorian State Election and focuses on sporting pavilions, active transport, homelessness support, community safety, public spaces and repairs to state-owned assets.
Mayor Sue Baker said the campaign reflected issues raised by the community.
“Locals have told us what matters most, feeling safe and connected, having great places to gather and play, getting around easily, and ensuring people who are struggling are met with dignity and real support.”
Sports Facilities A Major Focus
Several projects focus on local sport and recreation, with council pointing to growing participation among women and girls.
Council is seeking funding for upgrades at Bruce Park Pavilion, Len Phelps Pavilion, Baxter Park and a new Langwarrin district play space.
Cr Baker said many local sporting facilities were built decades ago and no longer met community needs.
“Sport is where many young people find confidence, friendships and a sense of belonging.”
“Our clubs are doing an incredible job, but they need facilities that reflect the community they serve today, not the one they served 30 years ago.”
Homelessness, Outreach And Safety Programs Included
The campaign also calls for continued investment in programs that support people experiencing homelessness and improve safety in the city centre.
Council is seeking $750,000 for Community Connectors and $500,000 for Frankston and Mornington Peninsula Zero.
Council says the Community Connectors pilot in Young Street and around Frankston Station has helped connect people with housing, health and support services.
Cr Baker said the program had shown the value of early support.
“The success of the Community Connectors pilot in Young Street and Frankston Station has shown that meeting people with care and professional support leads to better outcomes for individuals and the whole community.”
“Early help, coordination and compassion make a real difference.”
Council Seeks Repairs To State-Owned Assets
Council is also calling on the State Government to prioritise repairs and maintenance of state-owned assets, including major roads and the Beach Street underpass.
Cr Baker said the condition of major roads and entry points affected how the city was viewed.
“When our major roads and entry points look cared for, our whole city feels more welcoming. It signals momentum. It reflects who we are and who we’re becoming.”
Full List Of Funding Priorities
Council’s stated priority projects include:
- Bruce Park Pavilion Redevelopment: $1.75 million sought from the State Government, with a total project cost of $10 million.
- Langwarrin Men’s Shed expansion: $200,000 sought, with a total project cost of $400,000.
- Len Phelps Pavilion refurbishment: $2 million sought, with a total project cost of $6.5 million.
- Connected Neighbourhoods: $5.85 million sought, with a total project cost of $11.73 million.
- Frankston Freeway and Beach Street overpass: $2 million sought, with a total estimated cost of $2 million. Council notes this is an estimate.
- Community Connectors: $750,000 sought, with a total project cost of $1.5 million.
- Frankston and Mornington Peninsula Zero: $500,000 sought, with a total project cost of $500,000.
- Baxter Park multi-sports courts and safety works: $1.8 million sought, with a total project cost of $3.6 million.
- Monterey Reserve precinct revitalisation: $2 million sought, with a total project cost of $6 million.
- Langwarrin district play space: $2.2 million sought, with a total project cost of $4.4 million.
Together, the projects seek more than $19 million in State Government partnership funding and would contribute to more than $46 million in total investment across Frankston City, according to council.
Candidates Urged To Back Frankston Priorities
Council says it will engage with all political parties and candidates in a bipartisan way under its election engagement protocols.
Cr Baker said the campaign aimed to secure practical commitments for Frankston City.
“These are practical projects that will make a real difference to people’s everyday lives and help our city continue to grow in a fair and inclusive way.”
“Frankston City First isn’t about politics. It’s about standing up for our community and making sure Frankston City gets the support it needs to thrive.”
Council says Frankston City’s population is forecast to grow by more than 13 per cent by 2046, increasing pressure on community facilities, services and infrastructure.
Council is encouraging residents, clubs and community groups to raise the projects directly with election candidates.
