2026/27 Federal Budget Re-Cap

The 2026–27 Federal Budget sets out a reform‑focused agenda aimed at easing cost‑of‑living pressures while reshaping key parts of the tax system and boosting long‑term productivity. 

At a national level, several headline measures stand out: 

• Tax reform is a central feature, including changes to negative gearing (designed to encourage investment in new housing), adjustments to capital gains tax arrangements, and broader efforts aimed to improve fairness in the system. 

  
  

• A strong emphasis on housing supply, with new funding to unlock enabling infrastructure and support new developments. 

  
  

• Ongoing cost‑of‑living relief, including targeted tax offsets and continued investment in health and essential services. 

  
  

• Continued investment in infrastructure, skills and industry, with a focus on productivity, supply chains and economic resilience. 

  
  

What the Budget Means for Geelong 

While Geelong is not the focus of any large new infrastructure announcements, the Budget does include a number of targeted investments that reinforce the region’s strategic importance and future growth. 

The biggest headline is an undisclosed amount to progress the second stage of the CSIRO’s Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness capital upgrade. 

This is a significant outcome for Geelong: 

• It strengthens one of Australia’s most important national research assets to a future in Geelong; 

  
  

• Reinforces Geelong’s role in biosecurity, health and advanced science; and 

  
  

• Supports highly skilled jobs and long‑term economic activity in the region. 

  
  

This investment positions Geelong as a critical contributor to national capability in an increasingly important global field. 

A further $14.1 million has been committed to the Geelong City Deal. This continues Commonwealth support for projects that are reshaping the city, including CBD revitalisation. The ongoing revitalisation of Central Geelong is a priority of the Committee for Geelong, and every aspect of the City Deal is important to this outcome. 

The Budget includes $500,000 toward the Armstrong Creek sports stadium project, supporting delivery of community infrastructure in one of Australia’s fastest‑growing regions. 

Beyond specific line items, the broader ambition of the Budget has some alignment with Geelong’s growth trajectory: 

• A strong national focus on housing supply may support development across Geelong’s growth areas 

  
  

• Investment in research, industry and innovation aligns with the region’s economic transition 

  
  

• Ongoing regional funding programs create future opportunities for investment 

  
  

Looking Ahead 

The next wave of major infrastructure investment in Geelong, particularly in transport and city‑shaping projects, has not yet been secured. 

This Budget reinforces the importance of partnership between all levels of government. 

With the Victorian State Election approaching, this creates an important opportunity. 

To secure significant future Federal investment in Geelong, there will need to be an aligned commitment from state level. 

As the voice of Future Geelong, our role is to advocate for these city-shaping projects and opportunities, to help Geelong grow well. 

Following last week’s State Budget, I commented that “the choices made through this year’s election campaign will also affect the future of our city”. 

The Federal Budget is a reminder of this. 

Growth creates growth. Geelong’s growth story is undeniable, and that makes our city a great investment. 

Michael Johnston

CEO Committee for Geelong