Thanks to the Government’s Housing Support Program, $11.3 million has been allocated to the City of Greater Bendigo and its delivery partner Coliban Water for the upgrade of three sewer pump stations in Marong and construction of 6km of rising mains along the Calder Highway.

Marong is a key growth area identified in local and state planning strategies for Greater Bendigo. This critical infrastructure is essential for the sustainable development of Marong and will also enable the future delivery of the Bendigo Regional Employment Precinct.

The planned upgrades will address current capacity issues within the sewerage system by installing higher-capacity pumps and improved electrical systems that will enable the development of more housing.

The Housing Support Program is designed to enable infrastructure projects – such as roads, sewage and water – to fast-track housing in regional and metropolitan growth areas as well as supporting access to social housing and increasing housing supply.

This funding follows almost $250 million already allocated to Victoria for enabling infrastructure and social housing across the state as well as $6 million delivered to fast-track planning capability.  

This is part of the Albanese Government’s $32 billion Homes for Australia Plan to meet the ambitious national target of building 1.2 million new, well-located homes over the next 5 years.


Quotes attributable to Member for Bendigo, Lisa Chesters MP: 

“Marong is a significant growth corridor in Greater Bendigo and it is crucial to the successful development of the region.

“Our government is partnering with the City of Greater Bendigo and Coliban Water to deliver a project that will unlock homes and create more social and affordable housing in our region.

“Labor Governments invest in the regions, invest in our communities and programs like this one make it easier for people to build or buy their own home in our community.”


Quotes attributable to City of Greater Bendigo CEO, Andrew Cooney:

“This funding is a great example of various levels of government and local agencies working together for the benefit of the community.

“Marong has long been identified as a key growth area for Greater Bendigo and this planned investment in critical infrastructure aligns with strategic planning outlined in the Managed Growth Strategy and Marong Township Structure Plan.

“Marong’s population is expected to reach 8,000 people over the next 20 years and planning for the Bendigo Regional Employment Precinct is underway now, which is expected to deliver 6,000 direct and indirect jobs.  

“This investment will support forecast population growth and help maintain the liveability of our community.”