Focusing on planning & Future Hepburn in draft Council Plan and Budget

Published on 22 May 2025

Image of houses in a gully with forest in the distance

Hepburn Shire Council has reaffirmed its commitment to long-term, strategic planning through its draft Council Plan and Budget, with over $1 million allocated to delivering on Future Hepburn.

A significant portion of this investment will support the continued delivery of the Township Structure Plans, the Rural Strategy, and the Integrated Transport Strategy. These projects aim to create a more connected, resilient, and well-planned Shire that responds to the needs of both our current and future community.

Council has also committed funding to completing its review and response to the Environmental Effects Statement to oppose the Western Renewables Link, demonstrating Council’s ongoing commitment to protecting prime agricultural land and significant landscapes, in the interests of local communities.

Mayor, Cr Don Henderson, said that the draft Council Plan and Budget continue to build on our strategic planning work and reflect our vision for a sustainable and well-designed Shire.

“Future Hepburn is about delivering outcomes to preserve our rural landscapes, and ensure we grow in the right way,” said Cr Don Henderson.

Council has also implemented some key planning and building improvements that will continue to have a focus over the coming years:

  • Shared building services with Mount Alexander Shire Council: A new collaboration between Hepburn Shire and Mount Alexander Shire Councils. Local builders, businesses, and residents will benefit from a more efficient and streamlined service across both shires.
  • Improved planning services: Council’s planning team has introduced operational changes that provide planners with more dedicated time to assess applications—while still ensuring accessible, one-on-one advice for community members.

Council is also proposing to invest over $1.72 million into statutory planning (permits) and building services in the draft Budget 2025/26.

The draft Council Plan and Budget is now available for community feedback, and Council is encouraging residents to have their say on Participate Hepburn. Hard copy surveys are also available at our libraries and customer service hubs.

Tagged as:
Back to top