What the council is working on
Recent deliveries, what's underway now, and what's planned next — drawn from the council's own plans, budgets and project pages. We report what the council has publicly said it's doing; every item links to its source.
The council's stated direction
Darebin's direction is set by the Darebin 2041 Community Vision and Our Darebin Plan 2025–29, which combines the Council Plan with the municipal public health and wellbeing plan. Each year the council adopts an action plan and funds it through the budget; the 2026–27 budget is the second year of the plan. The council publishes quarterly performance reports against the action plan.
Our Darebin Plan has six strategic directions: Aboriginal culture and knowledge; equity, diversity and inclusion; health and wellbeing; climate leadership and response; vibrant places and economy; and decision-making, community engagement and transparency.
The 2026–27 budget, adopted at a special council meeting on 30 June 2026, has total expenses of $245.8 million and $27.6 million of capital works. It raises the average general rate by the 2.75% cap, funds the introduction of glass separation in 2027–28, plans no new borrowing, and projects operating deficits for the next four years. The council says costs have grown faster than revenue, so it has reduced capital works and operating project allocations and deferred some projects.
Underway now
Harding Street Bridge replacement
Construction from mid-2026 (council timeline)Darebin and Merri-bek councils are replacing the timber footbridge over Merri Creek at Harding Street with a 4-metre-wide truss bridge just south of the existing one. The old bridge stays open while the new one is built.
Source: Darebin City Council — Harding Street Bridge Replacement
Planned / committed
Separate glass collection
2027–28The 2026–27 budget supports the council's introduction of glass separation in 2027–28, with up-front investment and education for households. The council says its waste services are changing in response to Victorian Government directions. Until then, glass bottles and jars go in the yellow-lid recycling bin.
Source: Darebin City Council — Annual Budget 2026–27 (executive summary)
High Street Preston streetscape upgrade
Construction scheduled from 2027–28, subject to grant fundingThe council endorsed a concept design in November 2025 for High Street between Bell Street and Murray Road, including 30 km/h traffic, wider footpaths, new crossings, more trees and more accessible parking. It is in detailed design and the council is seeking grant funding.
Source: Darebin City Council — High Street Preston Streetscape Upgrade
Pick My Park upgrades: AG Davis Park and Henderson Park
Consultation on concept designs until 25 Oct 2026Upgrades to AG Davis Park in Preston and Henderson Park in Thornbury, jointly funded by the State Government and the council. The council is asking for feedback on concept designs.