Bendigo Infrastructure Builds from Earlier Regional Funding Decisions

The City of Greater Bendigo is advancing more than 100 strategic infrastructure projects in 2024/25, with $6.3 million allocated for major road rebuilds and $5 million for reseals and patching. These efforts sit alongside larger commitments that trace back to decisions made after the Victoria 2026 Commonwealth Games were cancelled.

Redirected Venue Funding

Following the cancellation, the Victorian Government confirmed funding to upgrade Red Energy Arena, Bendigo Showgrounds, and the Bendigo Bowls and Croquet clubs. This shift allowed resources originally linked to event hosting to support ongoing local facilities instead.

Housing and Sewer Upgrades

The federal Albanese Government provided $11.3 million to upgrade three sewer pump stations in Marong and build 6km of rising mains. The work is intended to unlock 2,369 homes, including 240 social or affordable units. A separate $5 million commitment supports the 4.4km Bendigo Low Line shared path along Bendigo Creek between Golden Square and White Hills.

Bendigo plans approximately $1.2 billion of new projects starting construction in 2026, including residential developments such as 55 units at 387 High Street & Haase Rd and 41 dwellings at 190-194 Retreat Road. The Victorian Planning Authority is preparing a precinct planning framework for the Bendigo Regional Employment Precinct, including a draft planning scheme amendment for rezoning.

Gallery and Water Projects

Construction of the $45 million stage one Bendigo Art Gallery redevelopment is scheduled to begin in 2025/2026, listed as the largest infrastructure project ever undertaken by the City of Greater Bendigo. The $82.6 million Bendigo Solids Handling Project at the Water Reclamation Plant continues with completion expected in 2028.

These initiatives align with the Greater Bendigo Housing Strategy, which targets 900 houses per year across five growth areas to accommodate projected population growth. The Victorian Government has also allocated $5 million for the Bendigo Stadium upgrade, covering two new courts and lighting improvements.

Work on the listed projects continues through the current financial year, with further residential and precinct activity expected to follow the established funding timelines.