Future Ready Footscray
Council is advocating for specific projects and long-term initiatives to improve Footscray’s reputation and support the people who live, visit and work here.
In response to significant challenges impacting our community and businesses Council has endorsed the Footscray CBD Place Plan 2025-26, to kick-start revitalisation in the short term.
Meanwhile, a broader advocacy approach is needed to improve complex planning, housing, development, transport, economic, and social outcomes.
Council is also advocating for specific projects and initiatives, to improve amenity, community safety and public transport links, activate quiet precincts and disused spaces, and gain social and affordable housing.
Through collaboration within Council and across government agencies we can help Footscray reach its potential, improve community outcomes and foster the city’s reputation as a thriving hub for business, culture and life.
Our Asks
Support the Footscray CBD Revitalisation
Council seeks to secure a coordinated, cross-government commitment that addresses the complex and interrelated planning, housing, transport, economic, and social challenges facing Footscray, with the aim of restoring its reputation as a thriving urban hub.
Commit to the Footscray Transport Interchange
Footscray Station’s daily patronage is set to double from 12,000 to 23,000 after Metro Rail services commence. Council urges the Victorian Government to take immediate action to fund the Detailed Design Scheme for the Footscray Transport Interchange and provide a clear timeline for construction to ensure the precinct can safely and efficiently accommodate future demand.
The Irving Street Interchange will bring a number of bus services from the Paisley Street precinct to improve accessibility and connectivity with trains and trams, support sustainable growth, and enhance the overall public transport experience.
Key improvements to the Footscray CBD Revitalisation Project, such as removing the bus stops along Paisley Street to improve amenity, cannot proceed until this project is delivered.
The State Government has completed a feasibility study and there is widespread agreement on the project’s necessity. However, formal funding and planning commitments are still pending.
Transform the Existing Footscray Hospital Site
Council calls on the Victorian Government to commit to the timely remediation of vacated areas of the Existing Footscray Hospital site, to transform it into a vibrant, multi-purpose community hub.
This precinct must deliver green space, affordable housing, essential community services, and respectful heritage reuse for Maribyrnong’s rapidly growing population.
As a major stakeholder in the site, Council has put forward a set of recommendations for the precinct’s redevelopment and future use.
The recommendations are based on community feedback gathered from a State Government led engagement in November 2023, and Council-led engagement on a Draft Advocacy Plan for the site in April 2024.
Fund the Creative West Delivery Phase
Creative West will feature a large-scale performing arts venue, a new library, and community park. This project is in the detailed design stage and Council is seeking funding from the State and Federal Government alongside Council funds to bring it to fruition.
The Creative West venue will support the growth of creative industries in Melbourne’s West and further establish Footscray as a cultural hub and thriving area to live, work, and do business.