Thousands more trees, greener streets and stronger, practical action on climate change are at the heart of the City of Casey’s draft 2026/27 Budget and Annual Action Plan, as Council invests in a more sustainable future for the community.
City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said a major focus this year is expanding green spaces and tree canopy across the city to create cooler, healthier and more liveable neighbourhoods.
“Trees play a vital role in keeping our communities cool, improving biodiversity and creating greener streets and open spaces,” Cr Koomen said.
“This year, Council is committing to large‑scale tree and shrub planting as part of our Greening Casey plan, while also investing in climate resilience to help our community prepare for future challenges.
“These investments are about protecting our environment today and making sure Casey remains a great place to live for generations to come.”
Following endorsement by Councillors on 21 April 2026, the draft Budget and Annual Action Plan are now open for community feedback until 14 May 2026.
Key sustainability and greening highlights for 2026/27
The draft Budget includes increased investment in greening, climate action and environmental resilience to support a more sustainable future for Casey.
Key highlights include:
- Delivery of year three of the Greening Casey plan, with a strong focus on increasing tree canopy through Council, community and developer planting programs. This includes a commitment to plant 25,000 trees and 185,000 shrubs over the next two years.
- Continued advocacy for Green Streets in future residential developments, promoting a tree‑first approach to urban design that prioritises canopy coverage from the outset.
- $4.8 million invested in major greening, landscape and ecological projects that enhance canopy coverage, improve habitat connectivity and lift the quality of key natural and civic spaces. Priority areas include the Cranbourne Botanic Gardens connectivity region and the Southern Brown Bandicoot Ecological Corridor in Botanic Ridge.
- A 7 per cent increase in climate investment to $4.46 million, supporting climate planning, programs and preparedness under the Climate Resilient Casey plan.
- $974,000 in capital works projects to reduce emissions, manage flood risk and strengthen resilience, including wetland protection works at Rutter Park, Tooradin, and battery installations at community facilities such as Marriott Waters, Strathaird and Arthur Wren Hall.
- Expansion of education and engagement initiatives, including funding to scale up Climate Classrooms, supporting emissions reduction and improving climate literacy in the community.
Have your say
Community members, businesses and stakeholders are invited to review the draft documents and share their feedback during the exhibition period from 23 April to 14 May 2026.
Find out more and have your say at: conversations.casey.vic.gov.au/budget-2026-27.