The Allan Labor Government has announced a $9 million investment in new and improved community facilities across Victoria’s fastest-growing suburbs through the Growing Suburbs Fund.

Minister for Suburbs Sonya Kilkenny said on Monday that the 14 successful projects, spanning eight local councils, aim to strengthen social connections in communities by creating community play spaces, pavilions, and centres.

The projects are strategically positioned within areas that represent 23 per cent of Victoria’s population and have experienced growth surpassing the state average over the last two decades.

Melton City Council will receive $2 million towards a new open space precinct in Aintree, which will include state-of-the-art facilities, all-abilities playspaces, an off-lead dog park, fitness trail, skate park, and soccer fields.

Mitchell Shire Council will use its $2 million allocation for a new community centre in Wallara Waters to provide integrated services such as maternal and child health.

Six other councils – Hume City Council, Cardinia Shire Council, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, Whittlesea City Council, Wyndham City Council, and Casey City Council – also received funding for various projects to respond to changing community needs and demands.

These investments will support projects such as improving and expanding play spaces in Craigieburn, Sunbury, and Beaconsfield, delivering a community centre in West Wollert, and providing public amenities in Wyndham Vale.

Ms Kilkenny said: “Whether it’s parks, play spaces, sporting or health facilities, we’re delivering important infrastructure for communities in some of our fastest growing suburbs.”

The Growing Suburbs Fund, a $435 million investment over nine years, has now supported 360 projects and created more than 11,340 jobs since its inception.