AU Hotels

I havent returned to Melbourne for over 14 years. I am looking to rent a reasonable accommodation in Melbourne as a holiday for a week to 10 days that will keep the whole family happy! Have 3 kids & hubby so would like something like resort type accom for days when we can stay home to save money but also keep kids happy, eg. pool, playground. We need to stay somewhere central between visting friends in the west of melbourne Bachuss Marsh and as far as towards Dandenong. Any great suggestions that will keep the children happy for less than $200 per night (for 5) and reduce our travelling time? Not keen on hotel type rooms or the centre of the city of Melbourne due to traffic. Also, has Fitzroy and St. Kilda increased its reputation of a “safe place” to visit or does it have the same bad reputation as it did over 14 years ago when I last visited? Thanks for your help.