Politics

Essendon Infrastructure Bond Referendum to Shape Local Jobs and Service Delivery

The ballot measure would authorise city borrowing for construction projects that the legislation states will employ residents in building and maintenance roles while expanding facilities such as transport hubs and community centres.

By Essendon Policy Desk · Published 9 July 2026

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Essendon Infrastructure Bond Referendum to Shape Local Jobs and Service Delivery — Photo: Rocío Mantis / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

Essendon voters will decide on a November referendum that authorises a 120 million dollar infrastructure bond measure. The proposal directly affects residents who rely on local employment in construction trades and on public services including roads, transit links and recreation facilities.

The measure reaches the ballot after the city council completed its 2026 infrastructure assessment, which identified 47 kilometres of roads and three ageing community buildings requiring replacement or major repair within the next decade.

Passage would direct bond proceeds to projects that hire local workers for site preparation, paving and facility upgrades. Residents living near the proposed transit hub on the north side of the city would gain improved bus connections, while those in the central district would see a new recreation centre replace the current 1970s structure.

Employment and service effects

The legislation states that 60 percent of project labour hours must go to workers residing within city limits. This requirement is projected to support 380 full-time positions during the five-year construction window, according to the referendum guide released by the city clerk.

Local advocates note that expanded facilities would also reduce current maintenance spending, which the 2026 budget paper lists at 18 percent of the general fund. Freed funds could support additional staffing at libraries and parks without raising property taxes beyond the bond repayment schedule.

Timeline and next steps

Ballots will be mailed to registered voters on 15 October. The city clerk will certify results within 14 days of the election, after which the council must adopt an implementation ordinance within 60 days if the measure passes.

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