Our Focus
Wellington has always been a place of hard work, innovation and strong local character, all of which continues to drive our economy today.
We’re focused on helping local businesses grow, creating space for new ideas, and making sure people can find good jobs close to home. It’s about backing the industries we’re known for, while also looking ahead and welcoming the kinds of investment that bring long-term benefits to our region.
As our towns grow and change, we’re planning carefully to make sure that growth works for everyone. That means thinking about the land we have, the infrastructure we’ll need, and how we support communities to adapt and thrive.
Strategic Indicators
At a Glance...
Major Initiatives and Actions
Council continues to deliver targeted support for existing, new, and emerging businesses through a range of initiatives.
Key actions include:
• Hybrid business workshops enabling participation from multiple locations
• Prompt payment practices and streamlined permit approvals to reduce barriers
• Regular engagement with local Business and Progress Associations to address concerns and improve service delivery
The business support programme featured mentoring through the Small Business Mentoring Service Business Clinic and masterclass workshops such as Running Your Small Business, Building Long-Term Value, and the Sale BTA AI Breakfast, alongside tourism working group sessions.
Council recently hosted the Business Boost event, focusing on building business capability and featuring a presentation from Regional Migration Australia.
In addition, Council monitors local vacancy rates every six months to identify trends and challenges within the business environment.
Council continues to advance integrated place-based planning and promote housing diversity through the ongoing assessment of planning permit applications and the implementation of Planning Scheme Amendments.
These actions ensure alignment with strategic objectives and support sustainable growth across the municipality.
Council is participating in renewable energy opportunities through strategic partnerships and advocacy.
Leveraging relationships with the Gippsland Climate Change Network and Regional Development Victoria, Council has supported proposed projects and positioned Wellington as a key player adjacent to Australia's first declared offshore wind zone, an estimated $40 billion investment opportunity.
In collaboration with South Gippsland Shire Council and Gunaikurnai Land and Water Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC), planning investigations are underway to enable industry growth, supported by a successful $4.7 million grant from the Regional Partnerships and Precincts Program for essential technical reports.
Council has also partnered with Fulham Solar Farm to host community engagement events in Sale and Rosedale, highlighting business and employment prospects.
Additionally, Wellington contributed to the Net Zero Economy Authority Board Roundtable, outlining transition opportunities across sectors including agriculture and defence.
Council has strengthened the impact of The Middle of Everywhere brand by embedding it across tourism, business development, investment attraction, and liveability programs.
The brand has been consistently applied through digital platforms, social media campaigns, promotional videos, and integration into events, signage, merchandise, and corporate materials.
This unified approach has enhanced regional identity, supported economic development, and increased recognition of Wellington Shire as a vibrant place to live, work, invest, and visit.
Next steps include refreshing and expanding brand content to promote key growth sectors such as renewable energy, aviation, and agriculture.
The brand will continue to align with upcoming events, investment prospectus releases, and regional marketing initiatives.
Impact will be measured through engagement data and business enquiries, while partnerships with local businesses and regional agencies will be strengthened to maximise long-term value.
Several Planning Scheme Amendments are currently in progress at different stages of preparation to enable the delivery of zoned land for residential, industrial, and commercial growth.
Outstanding drainage issues and adjoining landowner consultation are being finalised, before the completed Development Plan is submitted for Council's consideration.
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Council has been advised by the regional office of the Department of Transport and Planning that grant funding is available to support the Planning Scheme Review.
An application for funding is currently underway.
Council continues to support and advocate for the local agricultural industry through strategic initiatives and partnerships.
• A three-year Memorandum of Understanding has been signed with the Gippsland Agricultural Group (GAgG) to advance research into sustainable farming practices that improve drought resilience, water security, and profitability in a changing climate.
• Feasibility studies for a multi-purpose feed mill in Gippsland have been facilitated, attracting multinational investment and enabling vertical integration for broiler farms, grain drying, and circular economy innovations using chicken litter and digestate.
• A comprehensive livestock handling protocol has been implemented to ensure safe and compliant operations, aligned with national legislation and animal welfare standards.
• Staff participation in the 2025 Saleyards Australia Conference reinforced Council's commitment to best practice, with discussions on livestock assurance, feedback systems, and biosecurity.
• In collaboration with Agriculture Victoria's District Veterinary Officer, Council addressed livestock identification and compliance matters, including conflict of interest concerns and obligations under the Livestock Disease Control Act.
• Council continues to work with The Future of Yarram and The Future of Heyfield on timber transition planning and recently hosted the Timber Towns AGM and Tour, strengthening regional collaboration and advocacy for the forestry sector.