Ballarat West Development Contributions Plan sets new levies for infrastructure

The 2024/25 Ballarat West Development Contributions Plan review has increased the Residential Development Infrastructure Levy to $421,701.28 and the Commercial levy to $277,301.78. These amounts are collected from developers to pay for drainage, roads and recreational spaces in the Ballarat West area.

The Ballarat Infrastructure Growth Alignment Framework is nearing completion. The Victorian Planning Authority is preparing final advice to the Minister for Planning on residential land supply and growth sequencing relative to existing infrastructure. Infrastructure Australia has approved the Ballarat Rail Line Upgrade as a Priority Project to increase capacity and add train services between Melbourne's outer west and the CBD.

Effects on daily travel and local facilities

Residents in Ballarat West and surrounding suburbs may see changes in how new housing connects to existing roads and public transport. The rail upgrade is expected to support more frequent services that some households use for work or study trips to Melbourne. Updated road maintenance standards under the Road Management Plan 2025 aim to set inspection frequencies and response times that affect local streets.

The March 2026 Council Meeting confirmed progress on the $17.54 million Eastwood Leisure Complex redevelopment and new public toilets at Lake Wendouree. These facilities are part of the infrastructure supported by development contributions and are used by residents for recreation and community activities.

Next steps for infrastructure planning

The City of Ballarat sought submissions on the Road Management Plan 2025 amendments by 30 June 2025. The Victorian Planning Authority will deliver its advice on the Infrastructure Growth Alignment Framework to guide future residential growth sequencing. These processes determine how new development aligns with roads, rail and community facilities that serve existing households.