April 3rd, 2025Regional priorities in spotlight as allied councils meet

The Hepburn Shire Council has advocated for additional support for regional local government at two key events held in recent days.

Last Friday (March 28) the Greater Ballarat Alliance of Councils (GBAC) quarterly meeting took place in Daylesford with mayors and CEOs agreeing on regional priorities they believe require federal government support and action. 

Council leaders advocated for an equitable share of government funding to ensure residents have access to adequate infrastructure and services. 

Hepburn Shire Mayor, Cr Don Henderson, said that regional councils need a commitment from government to improve access to housing, major transport networks, digital infrastructure and adequate funding to ensure the financial and communal success of our region. 

“The meeting was a good opportunity to come together to align interests and put forward a united voice,” Cr Henderson said.

“We need the Federal Government to further support regional councils to ensure their financial viability and community growth. It is critical that federal leadership commits to empowering local governments for the betterment of all Australians.

“The time to act is now—with a federal election around the corner, adequate federal support for our region is long overdue. All parties in the election need to commit to supporting local government.”

The Hepburn Shire Council’s Mayor, a number of Councillors and the Chief Executive Officer also met with the newly appointed State Minister for Local Government, Nick Staikos, and local MP Mary-Anne Thomas last Friday to discuss the current opportunities and challenges facing the Shire. 

The Future Hepburn project, a once-in-a-generation program of major projects, was discussed and details as to how it intersects with the new ‘Plan for Victoria’ was released by the Victorian” Government.

“We are committed to protecting the region’s rural lifestyle while planning for future growth and meeting targets set by the State Government,” Cr Henderson said.

“Meeting directly with the Minister and Mary-Anne Thomas MP, gave us the opportunity to be upfront about the issues facing the shire.”

Other topics discussed included new waste service guidelines, the emergency services and volunteers fund and the shire’s Financial Vision. 

The council says it will continue to advocate for its community to ensure it can deliver key programs and projects now and into the future.

This story based on a Hepburn Shire Council media release. Image: Supplied