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Mitchell Shire Council has its say on state budget

By Contributed

Jun 2, 2025

Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall said the Victorian Government needed to deliver the infrastructure and services that the growing shire needed. Photo: Wayne Herring Photo by Wayne Herring

Mitchell Shire Council has spoken out on this year’s Victorian budget.

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Across the shire, several positive announcements have been made for the progression of capital works projects. However, council has raised concerns over the termination of a vital fund.

Welcomed by council was a $13.7 million investment into Broadford Primary School, as well as extra services announced for the Seymour line during peak travel times.

Down south, council said it was also pleased to see continued support for the Watson St interchange in Wallan and for the investment of $30 million for the Camerons Lane interchange in Beveridge.

However, council has not welcomed the decision to terminate the Growing Suburbs Fund.

“This fund has delivered critical infrastructure — from sports facilities to community centres — in growth areas like ours,” Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall said.

“Its removal leaves a major gap with no clear pathway to meet rising demand.”

Over 10 years, the Growing Suburbs Fund has delivered $440 million in infrastructure for the outer suburbs of Melbourne.

With Mitchell being a high-growth area, the fund has been a vital support for council to meet the growing demand of the shire.

Council said it was also disappointed in the lack of funding for the Beveridge Train Station and the delaying of the Kilmore Bypass.

Meanwhile, council has welcomed the news that the Victorian Government has confirmed changes to the Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund.

As part of its drought support package, the Victorian Government announced that all primary production properties would have their ESVF contributions capped at the same amount paid in 2024-25, meaning that the variable rate will remain at 28.7 per cent for the 2025-26 financial year. This will automatically be applied to rates notices.

“The changes to the ESVF are an important win for our farming communities. Council and the MAV raised the alarm about the disproportionate impact of the levy on primary producers and we’re pleased the government has listened,” Cr Dougall said.

With the rapid growth of the shire, Cr Dougall said it was important for the state government to note that Mitchell needed its support.

“Mitchell Shire is growing fast,” he said.

“We need the Victorian Government to deliver the infrastructure and services to match.”