Council Plan 2025-29

The Urban Paths Plan (UPP) is a key driver in achieving this Council Plan Action. Implementation is on track, with planning and construction activities progressing as anticipated.

A scheduled review will assess outcomes and provide an updated status report to inform future priorities.

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Initial engagement has commenced with the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) to build stronger relationships and explore opportunities for collaboration.

This partnership aims to deliver culturally informed outcomes that reflect shared values and respect for Country.

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Council has launched the Future Wellington website, completing the final stage of the Future Wellington project.

This platform replaces lengthy printed reports with an interactive dashboard, enabling real-time tracking of progress against 41 major initiatives and 11 objectives of the Live Well in Wellington Plan.

Key benefits include:

• Improved transparency and community engagement

• Enhanced functionality for Councillors and staff to monitor and report progress

• Clear, easy-to-navigate updates on priorities, projects, and performance

Wellington is the first Victorian council to deliver a platform of this kind, positioning it as a leader in open and accessible local government reporting.

Full Council Plan documents remain available for download, with Future Wellington providing the preferred digital experience.

Council has delivered a new Community Engagement portal, marking a significant upgrade to Your Wellington Your Say. Powered by Social Pinpoint technology, the new tool offers a more accessible and user-friendly interface.

Accessibility improvements include:

• Screen reading technology

• Adjustable contrast, larger text, link highlighting, and text spacing

• Dyslexia-friendly design

• Options to hide images, use tool tips, and access an integrated dictionary

These enhancements ensure broader community participation and make engagement easier and more inclusive.

The Wedge Performing Arts Centre has continued to offer a mix of programs this quarter, catering to a wide range of interests and age groups.

This has included live theatre and music performances, as well as comedy nights and community-led productions.

The venue has remained a lively and inclusive space for cultural expression.

These events not only entertained local audiences but also supported regional artists and contributed to the Shire's growing reputation as a destination for quality performing arts.

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Council has initiated key ICT Strategic Plan actions during this reporting period, including:

1. Launching activities to support the review and alignment with best-practice ICTstandards.

2. Implementing Cybersecurity Improvement Initiatives, such as conducting an Enterprise Technology Risk Assessment, Network Penetration Testing, and a Privacy Audit to ensure ongoing compliance with the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 and the Victorian Protective Data Security Standards Framework.

3. Establishing a joint Geographic Information Systems (GIS) working group with East Gippsland Shire Council to review GIS business systems and processes, driving efficiencies and improved outcomes for both councils.

E-learning modules on Cultural Awareness, Gender Equality, Prevention of Workplace Bullying and Harassment, and Child Safety continue to be delivered on a recurring cycle.

Development of a new module on Gender Impact Assessments (GIAs), incorporating the concept of intersectionality, is underway.

To further support staff engagement and application of GIA principles, monthly drop-in sessions are being facilitated across the organisation.

Tender documentation and scope of works have been completed and will be advertised shortly.

Following the advertisement, the tender process will progress to evaluation and contractor appointment to enable commencement of works.

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Development of governance resources and templates to support volunteer committees is underway.

In recognition of the valuable contribution of volunteers and community groups, a thank-you event was held in Stratford, attended by several Councillors.

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The new reporting platform, Future Wellington was launched on Monday, 22 September 2025, demonstrating a commitment to transparency, accessibility, and community engagement.

This platform serves as a central hub for Council's long-term strategic plans, including the:

• Community Vision 2041

• Council Plan 2025-2029

• Financial Plan

• Asset Plan

• Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan - Live Well in Wellington

The new website is designed to address previous challenges around engagement and accessibility.

It replaces the static PDF-based approach with a dynamic, user-friendlyinterface that allows:

• Real-time tracking of progress against strategic priorities via a performance dashboard

• Clear updates on Council initiatives and actions

• Interactive access to strategic documents and sub-plans

• New channels for community feedback and engagement

Over the past few months, our Performing and Visual Arts Teams have continued to build its reputation as a cultural hub for Gippsland.

One of the standout events was the highly successful Turner & Australia exhibition, which showcased world-class art to our community and attracted visitors from across the region.

We also delivered a diverse program of live performances at The Wedge, offering something for everyone, from theatre and music to locally produced shows.

Beyond our own events, we collaborated with other councils and arts organisations across Gippsland to plan and support regional festivals and cultural initiatives. These partnerships are fostering a stronger, more connected arts community throughout the region.

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.

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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.

Parks are regularly maintained on a set schedule, and upgrades to park infrastructure are planned as assets reach the end of their life.

The new 10-year Public Open Space Strategy completed its first phase of community engagement in August 2025.

The Urban Forest program is ongoing, with a target of planting 1,000 new, replacement, or infill trees each year.

We also actively support events and licensed activities that encourage community use of our parks.

This activity is scheduled to begin in Year 3 of the Council Plan.

It follows a regular cycle and was last completed in 2024.

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Maintenance and upgrade works were completed at several Council-owned kindergarten buildings during the September school holidays.

Council is also in ongoing discussions with key service providers regarding their plans to upgrade their sites.

In addition, Council has engaged with the State Government to explore potential locations for new kindergartens on school sites within Wellington.

Council is continuing regular maintenance of parks along with upgrades to trails, paths, playgrounds, and accessible facilities.

Plans also include improving access to open spaces within a short walk of homes and adding lighting to make parks safer and more usable for longer hours.

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As part of our targeted reactivation plan at Aqua Energy, Council has introduced a range of improvements aimed at boosting community engagement and participation.

These include new membership options to better suit individual needs, enhanced access to swimming lessons, and a refreshed mix of programs catering to all ages and abilities.

We've also launched new wellness services and strengthened our digital platforms to make it easier for members to connect and stay informed.

These efforts have led to a strong recovery, with membership numbers now exceeding pre-closure levels, over 1,000 enrolments in our swim school, and record participation across our programs.

This activity is scheduled to commence in Year 2 of the Council Plan.

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The Wellington Proposal project has commenced and established the required project governance framework, including the Project Control Group, Project Sponsor, and Project Lead.

Key project documentation such as the project plan and supporting materials are currently being developed and refined.

Approval has been received from the Corporate Management Team (CMT) regarding the proposed approach, enabling the project to proceed as planned.

Garden beds, street trees, rubbish services, lighting, seating, and other amenities are regularly maintained.

Standards are audited, and customer requests are promptly addressed to keep these spaces well-presented, active, and welcoming.

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An independent review of the current Community Managed Facilities Strategy has been completed, and a recommendations report is currently being finalised to inform the next steps.

Council adopted the 10-Year Asset Plan on 19 August 2025, and a new GIS system was procured in September.

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Detailed design tender documentation is in the final stages of preparation.

An initial review of the plans is underway and is scheduled for presentation at an upcoming Council workshop.

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Review and update of the Recreational Boating Facilities Plan to occur during 2026.

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Council continues to deliver sustainability education programs with schools and the broader community as scheduled.

Media opportunities are used to showcase Council initiatives and encourage businesses and residents to take part in actions that reduce environmental impact.

These actions include transitioning to renewable energy, planting trees for shade and climate mitigation, electrifying Council's operational equipment, and improving waste and resource recovery practices.

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Council continues to deliver the multi-year Urban Forest program, which focuses on planting street trees to improve shade and streetscape amenity in Wellington townships where trees are limited or missing.

In September 2025, residents were invited to take part in selecting suitable tree species for planting in Autumn 2026.

This engagement encourages community involvement in street design and helps foster long-term stewardship of street trees.

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Council staff continue to actively participate in regional meetings, ensuring Wellington Shire remains engaged in collaborative planning efforts.

At the most recent meeting, initiatives to improve integrated water management across the region were considered, with discussions focused on practical strategies to enhance sustainability and resilience.

Council will continue to contribute to these forums to support coordinated outcomes.

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A series of book sales have been conducted across the Shire, utilising surplus and outdated stock from library collections.

This initiative supports the reuse of items and promotes sustainable practices while maintaining the quality of library services.

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The development and publication of Local Emergency Directories (LEDs) for high-risk communities is ongoing.

Initial planning for the renewal of the Municipal Emergency Management Plan (MEMP), scheduled for completion in late 2026.

Further progress on this renewal will occur throughout the 2026 calendar year.

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A suite of draft documents for Planning Scheme Amendment C125well (Revised Flood Controls) are currently being finalised in collaboration with the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority in preparation for a Council Briefing scheduled for November 2025.

Work is also progressing with the Communications Team on a comprehensive strategy to support the formal public notice period, anticipated to occur in the third quarter.

The diversion rate for the first quarter (1 July - 30 September 2025) was reported at 25.42%.

Ongoing education initiatives, including general waste awareness and school-based programs, continue to promote waste reduction, reuse, and recycling.

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Ongoing waste education campaigns are assisting residents to understand the importance of reducing, re-using and recycling resources.

These efforts are building momentum toward the introduction of Food Organics Garden Organics (FOGO) in 2026.

This year's Annual Hard Waste Collection encourages residents to consider what they discard, the first ever E-Waste collection campaign aims to maximise E-Waste recovery.

Sustainability Education campaigns with schools and broader community have been delivered as scheduled.

Planting programs have been implemented in designated Natural Environment areas.

Waste Education campaigns are ongoing, with an emerging focus on the introduction of the new Food Organics Garden Organics (FOGO) service in 2026. Public engagement opportunities have included invitations to talks hosted at Nakunbalook Environmental Education Centre.

Media channels have been actively utilised to encourage community participation in environmental stewardship, sustainable living, and building climate resilience.