Following the council meeting on Wednesday, August 6, several key documents have been released for community consultation.
These include the draft Benalla Rural City Council Plan 2025–2029, draft Asset Plan 2025–2029 and Asset Management Policy, draft Financial Plan 2025/26 to 2034/35, and the draft Road Management Plan 2025–2029.
Consultation for these documents opened on Thursday, August 7 and will remain open until Thursday, September 11.
The council plan is one of the most important documents council develops, setting the goals, priorities and actions that will guide service delivery, infrastructure investment and community support.
Mayor Bernie Hearn said the draft plan reflected the values and aspirations of the community and was the result of months of collaboration.
“Since November 2024, we’ve been working alongside Ninety Mile Consulting and a representative community panel to shape this plan,” she said.
Placing this plan on public exhibition is the next step towards adopting the plan.
Cr Hearn said getting final feedback from the community was an important opportunity for people to ensure their voice was reflected in the final plan.
“This is a chance for everyone — residents, businesses, community groups and young people — to influence the future direction of Benalla Rural City,” she said.
The draft Benalla Rural City Council Plan 2025–2029 is structured around five key themes: Community, Liveability, Economy, Environment and Leadership.
These themes form the foundation of the plan and will guide council’s work to support a healthy, connected and prosperous Benalla Rural City.
Cr Hearn said all the draft plans currently on public exhibition outlined the strategic direction for the years ahead and she encouraged everyone in the community to view them all.
“These documents outline how council plans to manage our infrastructure, finances, services and long-term goals,” she said.
“They impact every part of community life — from the roads we drive on, to the facilities we use, to the way council delivers services across the municipality.
“Your feedback is very important. Whether you support what’s proposed or have suggestions for improvement, we want to hear from you.
“These plans are about building a stronger, more sustainable and liveable Benalla Rural City for everyone.
“This is your chance to be heard. We encourage everyone to get involved and contribute to the future of our community.”
The documents can be viewed online at haveyoursay.benalla.vic.gov.au/ along with the submissions form.
Submissions can be made by completing the online form, via email to council@benalla.vic.gov.au or by post to Benalla Rural City Council, PO Box 227, Benalla.
Hard copies are also available from council’s customer service centre at 1 Bridge St East, Benalla, between 9am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.
