Council is seeking public opinion on its draft Council Plan 2025-29, a strategic blueprint which outlines how council will support the rapidly growing and diverse shire, while staying true to what makes Mitchell unique.
Five objectives are included in the plan to guide future decisions, investment and day-to day operations.
The objectives are to grow the economy, enhance residents’ quality of life, develop spaces that enrich everyday life, ensure good governance and foster a strong sense of civic pride.
Mitchell Shire Council’s five key objectives
- Grow the economy: support local businesses, attract investment and deliver enabling infrastructure.
- Enhance the quality of life: invest in services and programs that support health, wellbeing and inclusion.
- Develop spaces that enrich everyday life: plan for sustainable growth, housing and infrastructure.
- Ensure good governance: promote transparency, financial responsibility and meaningful community engagement.
- Foster a strong sense of civic pride: maintain clean, safe and welcoming places where people feel connected and proud.
Mitchell Shire Mayor Cr John Dougall said the plan had been shaped by community voices and would help council manage the challenges and opportunities ahead.
“Mitchell is changing, and changing fast. We’re one of Victoria’s fastest-growing regions and with that growth comes opportunity and responsibility,” Cr Dougall said.
“We’re not just growing, we’re building a region that’s connected, confident and ready for the future.”
The council plan also incorporates Mitchell Shire’s Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan, highlighting the importance of a whole-of-community approach to issues such as mental health, social connection, access to services and healthy living.
“A thriving community isn’t just about roads and infrastructure, it’s about the wellbeing of our people,” Cr Dougall said.
“We’re working with partners to tackle the real issues like mental health, isolation, access to healthcare and family violence.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe, supported and connected.”
Council is also inviting community feedback on its draft financial plan, which outlines how council will responsibly manage its resources and investments over the next 10 years, and draft asset plan, which details how council will maintain and improve more than $1.2 billion in community assets.
The council plan was developed through wide-ranging engagement, including pop-ups, surveys, stakeholder workshops and a community panel process.
“This isn’t just a vision, it’s a plan of action. It turns community priorities into projects people can see and feel,” Cr Dougall said.
“We know trust is built through action, not words. That’s why we’ll be reporting on progress and making sure the community sees how we’re tracking.
“People need to trust their council. When decisions are clear, services are accessible and communication is open, it builds stronger communities.”
To read the draft plan and make a submission, visit engagingmitchellshire.com/
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