I’ve seen how many young people, including myself and friends, are being priced out of basic fitness and wellbeing spaces. With the rising cost of living, something as simple as staying active is becoming increasingly difficult, particularly for those without strong financial support. I believe access to affordable exercise should not depend on income, as it plays a major role in both physical and mental health.

In recent years, the Yarra community has faced rising costs across almost every aspect of life, including fitness. While exercise is a crucial part of a healthy lifestyle, private gyms are becoming increasingly expensive for many residents. Recent Australian data shows the average gym membership in Melbourne is approximately $95–$175 per month depending on the facility and inclusions.

This places regular exercise increasingly out of reach for many low income residents and young people trying to manage the cost of living crisis. As a result, consistent access to fitness is becoming harder for those who would benefit from it most.

Yarra Council has the opportunity to address this by funding and developing an affordable public gym and outdoor calisthenics space. Such a facility would provide inclusive access to exercise, supporting physical health, mental wellbeing, and community connection. It would serve not only young people but residents of all ages, regardless of income.

Outdoor calisthenics spaces are also cost effective and inclusive by design, requiring minimal equipment and low ongoing maintenance. In the long term, investment in accessible public fitness infrastructure may also contribute to reduced community healthcare pressures through improved overall health outcomes.

Now is the time to act. By establishing affordable public fitness spaces, Yarra Council can demonstrate leadership in prioritising community health and accessibility during a period of economic pressure.

I am calling on Yarra Council to fund and develop these essential public fitness spaces so that everyone, regardless of financial situation, has access to the benefits of an active lifestyle. Join me in supporting this initiative and help create a healthier, more inclusive Yarra community.