Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri said that the 2026 Budget for Gozo includes a record 81% increase in capital expenditure, from €15.2 million to €27.5 million, which will go to infrastructure and social projects, a government statement read.

Camilleri also announced that the new Ġorġ Pisani Bypass in Rabat has now been partially opened to traffic.

He said that this is a strong Budget that reflects the vision of a government that puts families at the centre of every decision, and that through a stable and sustainable economy, is driving unprecedented growth in the country.

"The 2026 Budget includes a 21% increase in recurrent expenditure, from €77.9 million to €94.5 million, and a record 81% increase in capital expenditure, from €15.2 million to €27.5 million. This marks an all-time high in direct funds dedicated to Gozo, strengthening confidence in the island's potential and its role as a key contributor to the national economy," Camilleri said.

He said that government's vision for Gozo is clear: improved infrastructure, investment in connectivity, environmental protection, modern education, and inclusive and sports projects.

Camilleri said this year saw significant investments in improvements to Gozo's road network, including the completion of the roads beneath the Citadel, Triq l-Imgħallem, and the creation of a new junction to reduce bottlenecks in the centre of Victoria.

He said that the new Ġorġ Pisani Bypass has now been partially opened, diverting traffic to Marsalforn away from the town centre.

Meanwhile, work will begin next year on the main road linking Qala and Nadur, a series of roads including Triq it-Tiġrija, Triq San Blas, Triq il-Qala in Nadur, Triq il-Qala, and Triq San Ġużepp in Qala.

A separate project will also see the construction of 100 new residential roads across the island, based on suggestions from Local Councils.

He also said that the process to acquire a fourth new vessel for the Gozo Channel will begin, permanently expanding the fleet.

At the same time, a task force will be established to analyse how the Mġarr port can be used more efficiently and sustainably, the government statement said.

It said that the Planning Authority has also approved the Gozo Rural Airfield project in Xewkija, which will serve as a new niche for specialised tourism and quality employment.

He also referred to the Victoria Park project, a €20 million investment that will become a major green lung in the heart of Rabat, creating a large urban park for Gozitan families.

Another project in Pjazza l-Assedju will include a 340-car parking facility and a recreational garden on the upper level.

Additionally, restoration and embellishment works will take place in public gardens around Gozo, including in Xewkija, Ta' Kerċem, and Qala.

Speaking about education, Camilleri said that government is investing in modern and accessible schools, with ongoing works including the modernisation of schools in Ta' Kerċem and Żebbuġ, an investment of €7 million.

He said that from 2026, over 800 Gozitan students pursuing post-secondary or tertiary education in Malta will receive a monthly allowance of €280, an increase of around 70% over current support, in addition to a 15% rise in stipends.

The Minister spoke of the largest multidisciplinary sports complex in Gozo - the Rabat Sports and Aquatic Pavilion - which was inaugurated, describing it as an international-level facility.  

He said that next year, the process will begin for the construction of an athletics track, further strengthening Gozo's sports infrastructure.

On the social level, with an expenditure of €5.7 million, initiatives such as Blossom, focusing on children's and youths' mental health, and the Vajrinġa Centre for Music and the Arts, a space for inclusive art and creative expression for persons with disabilities, will be implemented.

Camilleri said that Gozo continues to benefit from responsible leadership and a clear vision, and the 2026 Budget measures are tangible, well-studied, and realistic.