The City of Boroondara is encouraging residents to get behind 3 local park improvement projects that have been shortlisted for potential funding through the Victorian Government's Pick My Park program.
The successful projects will be determined through a public vote, giving residents the opportunity to help secure additional investment for their local community.
Boroondara has 3 projects shortlisted:
- Upgrades to the activity hub at H.A. Smith Reserve, Hawthorn
- Upgrades to park furniture in Grace Park, Hawthorn
- Improvements to St James Park, Hawthorn
If all 3 projects are successful, Boroondara could receive more than $217,000 in additional funding to enhance these local parks and open spaces. In a previous round of the program Council received a grant of nearly $223,000 towards the construction of a Wurundjeri Garden in Lower Reserve, Camberwell. If Boroondara's parks do not garner enough support they will not be successful and funding will be granted to the successful open spaces in other municipalities.
The Pick My Park program provides funding for new and upgraded parks and open spaces in areas experiencing increased housing growth. The shortlisted projects are all located in areas expected to experience significant growth in coming years as the Victorian Government's planning reforms drive increased housing development across a number of Boroondara's suburbs.
Mayor Wes Gault urged residents to vote for the local projects.
"Boroondara's parks and gardens are some of our community's most valued public spaces, and these projects would help ensure they continue to meet the needs of current and future residents," Mayor Gault said.
"We are pleased to have three projects shortlisted through this program, which is a fantastic opportunity to secure additional investment in local parks, create new open space and improve facilities for everyone to enjoy."
"With more people expected to live in and around these areas in the years ahead, it is important that the Victorian Government supports councils by investing to upgrade and create parks that provide welcoming places for recreation, relaxation and community connection."
Boroondara submitted a range of park upgrades and investments to the Victorian Government, with just 3 projects shortlisted. Boroondara invests more than $25 million a year maintaining and investing in its parks and gardens.
Victorians aged 16 and over can vote for their favourite projects from 20 June to 3 August 2026 via the Engage Victoria Pick My Park website.
