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Strategic themes
The five strategic themes of 'Economy', 'Infrastructure', 'Liveability', 'Environment' and 'Your Council' are the vehicle for achieving our desired future.
Click each of the themes below to inspect the goals, key actions and community benefits that support each of these vitally important pillars.
Economy
Supporting agriculture, growing industries, attracting new sectors.
OUR GOALS
Greater Shepparton is committed to building a vibrant and resilient regional economy. We’re supporting local businesses to innovate, diversify, and expand into new markets, while actively attracting new industries and investment to the region. By strengthening the economies of our small townships and enhancing the Shepparton CBD as a thriving centre for business, lifestyle, and tourism, we’re creating opportunities for growth across the region. At the same time, we’re focused on increasing visitation and enriching the visitor experience to encourage more people to discover, and return to, our unique and welcoming community.
KEY ACTIONS
Infrastructure & Land Development
We’re expanding industrial land availability, unlocking strategic redevelopment sites, and increasing infill opportunities within the CBD. Planning for future residential and industrial growth is guided by the Shepparton and Mooroopna 2050 Growth Plan and statewide housing targets. We're also exploring improved facilities for caravan, camping, and RV travellers to enhance regional accessibility.
Business Attraction & Investment
Greater Shepparton is actively positioning itself as Australia’s food producing region. We’re targeting new businesses to relocate or operate locally and promoting CBD living through new and renovated residential developments.
Tourism & Events Activation
We’re creating and promoting annual anchor events, activating natural assets like the Goulburn River and Victoria Park Lake, and continuing our involvement in regional tourism programs to boost visitation and local pride.
Workforce & Skills Development
In partnership with universities and VET providers, we’re developing education and training programs aligned with current and future workforce needs to attract and retain students and ensure job readiness.
Entrepreneurship & Industry Support
We’re supporting small businesses and start-ups, while working with agricultural and horticultural sectors to address workforce challenges and adapt to a low-water future.
Place-Based Economic Identity
Each small town’s unique strengths—whether in tourism, agriculture, artisan products, clean energy or heritage—are being mapped and promoted to build distinct local identities and economic opportunities.
Cultural & Community Identity
We’re working with stakeholders to celebrate Greater Shepparton’s rich cultural heritage, diverse communities, and shared histories, fostering pride and inclusion.
CBD Revitalisation & Activation
The Shepparton CBD strategy is being refreshed with an annual action plan focused on retail, food, events, and public art. We’re enhancing dining zones, laneways, lighting, and music to encourage vibrant evening and weekend activity, while improving signage and trails to connect key attractions.
Advocacy & Strategic Partnerships
We continue to collaborate with key stakeholders to explore long-term solutions for securing water and energy resources, ensuring sustainable growth for the region.
COMMUNITY BENEFITS
Driving Economic Growth and Opportunity
Expanding industrial land and unlocking redevelopment sites creates new opportunities for investment, job creation, and business expansion. By planning for future residential and industrial growth, Greater Shepparton ensures a balanced and sustainable approach to development that benefits both residents and businesses.
Supporting Local Business and Investment
Positioning Greater Shepparton as Australia’s food-producing region attracts new businesses and strengthens existing industries. Promoting CBD living through new developments also boosts local retail, hospitality, and service sectors, creating a vibrant urban environment.
Boosting Tourism and Community Pride
Annual anchor events and the activation of natural assets like the Goulburn River and Victoria Park Lake enhance the region’s appeal to visitors. Increased tourism supports local businesses and fosters community pride through shared experiences and cultural celebration.
Building a Skilled and Resilient Workforce
Collaborations with universities and training providers ensure education programs align with industry needs, helping attract and retain talent. This supports workforce readiness and long-term economic resilience.
Empowering Entrepreneurs and Industry
Support for small businesses and start-ups encourages innovation and economic diversity. By working with key sectors to address challenges like water scarcity, Council helps industries adapt and thrive in changing conditions.
Celebrating Local Identity and Culture
Promoting the unique strengths of small towns—such as artisan products, agriculture, and heritage—builds distinct economic identities and attracts niche tourism. Celebrating cultural diversity and shared histories fosters inclusion and strengthens community connections.
Revitalising the CBD for Business and Lifestyle
Refreshing the Shepparton CBD strategy enhances the precinct as a hub for retail, dining, and events. Improvements to public spaces, lighting, and signage create a more inviting environment for residents, visitors, and businesses alike.
Securing Sustainable Growth Through Partnerships
Collaborating with stakeholders to address long-term water and energy needs ensures the region’s growth is sustainable and resilient. These strategic partnerships support both community wellbeing and business continuity.
Infrastructure
Managing assets to meet current and future needs
OUR GOALS
Greater Shepparton is focused on creating a well-connected, sustainable and liveable region. We’re investing in strategic asset management and improving transport options to support safe, healthy and active lifestyles. By facilitating housing and commercial development, enhancing road networks to ease congestion, and delivering high-quality sport and recreation infrastructure, we’re building a community that meets the needs of today and tomorrow. We're also committed to environmental leadership, supporting renewable energy uptake, advancing the circular economy, and protecting our rivers, creeks, wetlands and irrigation channels for future generations.
KEY ACTIONS
Strategic Asset Management & Sustainability
We’re committed to responsible asset management that balances current needs with future sustainability. This includes improving transparency, aligning decisions with community expectations, and prioritising investment in existing assets. Council is developing and updating Asset Plans and rationalisation processes to ensure efficient use and long-term viability.
Urban Planning & Growth Management
Our urban planning approach promotes safe, accessible neighbourhoods with diverse housing options and open spaces. We’re reviewing planning schemes and housing strategies to meet state targets, while working with developers to showcase investment opportunities and support residential and commercial growth.
Transport & Connectivity
We’re investing in safer road infrastructure and exploring modern parking technologies to improve efficiency. Advocacy efforts focus on securing funding for major transport projects, including bridge upgrades and a new Goulburn River crossing, while pushing for improvements to the regional bus network.
Sport, Recreation & Open Space
We’re enhancing sport and recreation facilities through master plans and infrastructure reviews. Our goal is to promote inclusive, active lifestyles by supporting diverse activities, expanding UV-protective shade, and encouraging walking, cycling, and social connection in public spaces.
Energy Efficiency & Climate Resilience
We’re supporting the community and local businesses to reduce energy costs and improve climate resilience through education, advice, and access to renewable energy programs. Council continues to install renewable energy assets across facilities where cost-effective, helping lead the way in sustainable energy use.
Circular Economy & Waste Management
Council is embedding circular economy principles into procurement and development, reducing waste and increasing reuse across events, infrastructure, and facilities. A Circular Economy Strategy and roadmap are being finalised, alongside targeted waste education, improved resource recovery operations, and initiatives to prevent illegal dumping.
Stormwater & Drainage Infrastructure
We’re improving drainage infrastructure by identifying high-risk areas and delivering targeted upgrades. Council also continues to implement relevant actions from the Shepparton Irrigation Region Land and Management Plan to support sustainable land and water management.
COMMUNITY BENEFITS
Strategic Asset Management & Sustainability
By responsibly managing public assets, Council ensures long-term value for ratepayers and improved service delivery. Businesses benefit from well-maintained infrastructure that supports operations, while the community gains confidence through transparent decision-making and efficient use of resources.
Urban Planning & Growth Management
Safe, accessible neighbourhoods with diverse housing options improve liveability and attract new residents. For businesses, clear planning frameworks and investment prospectuses create confidence and open opportunities for commercial development and growth.
Transport & Connectivity
Investments in safer roads, modern parking solutions, and improved public transport make it easier for residents to move around and access services. For businesses, better connectivity supports logistics, customer access, and workforce mobility, helping drive economic activity.
Sport, Recreation & Open Space
Upgraded sport and recreation facilities promote healthier lifestyles and social connection. These spaces also attract events and visitors, supporting local businesses and enhancing community wellbeing.
Energy Efficiency & Climate Resilience
Helping households and businesses reduce energy costs through renewables and education builds resilience and lowers environmental impact. Council’s leadership in sustainable energy use also sets a positive example and encourages broader community adoption.
Circular Economy & Waste Management
Embedding circular economy principles reduces waste and promotes reuse, benefiting both the environment and local industries. Businesses gain from sustainable procurement opportunities, while the community enjoys cleaner public spaces and improved waste services.
Stormwater & Drainage Infrastructure
Improved drainage reduces flood risk and protects property, enhancing safety and resilience for residents and businesses. These upgrades also support sustainable land and water management, contributing to long-term environmental health.
Liveability
Access to housing, active living, services, and culture
OUR GOALS
Greater Shepparton is dedicated to fostering a safe, inclusive and connected community. We prioritise community safety through strong partnerships and targeted initiatives, while ensuring fair access to services and opportunities for all. We celebrate diversity, support children and families through quality early years services, and promote active participation across all ages. Respecting and celebrating First Nations cultures is central to our approach, as is encouraging community leadership and engagement. We’re also committed to enhancing arts and culture, preparing for emergencies, and protecting our region’s rich biodiversity and natural environments.
KEY ACTIONS
Community Safety & Social Justice
We’re working with local agencies to reduce gender-based and family violence, improve public safety, and support people experiencing homelessness. A social justice framework is being developed to guide Council’s planning and service delivery.
Access, Inclusion & Universal Design
Council is committed to creating fair and inclusive spaces by applying Universal Design Principles and engaging with diverse community groups. We deliver targeted programs for seniors, people with disabilities, and young people, and continue to support gender equity through the Victorian Local Government Women’s Charter.
Community Leadership & Volunteering
We’re nurturing local leadership through engagement programs and supporting volunteer organisations to strengthen community involvement and resilience.
Health, Wellbeing & Social Connection
Council partners with stakeholders to promote healthy eating, mental wellbeing, and inclusive recreational activities. We support community centres and initiatives that celebrate cultural diversity, improve access to healthy food, and enhance social connection across all ages.
Reconciliation
We’re deepening partnerships with First Nations communities, Traditional Owners, and local organisations to strengthen shared outcomes. This includes advancing the Goulburn Murray Regional Prosperity Plan and exploring a new memorandum of understanding with the Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation.
Children, Youth & Families
We provide services and programs that support the health and wellbeing of children and young people, including implementing the Best Start, Best Life reforms. Council is also developing long-term plans to improve early years infrastructure and participation.
Arts, Culture & Lifelong Learning
Council supports a vibrant arts and culture scene through diverse events, the Creative City Strategy, and ongoing investment in venues like the Shepparton Art Museum and performing arts spaces. We’re also exploring options for a new, expanded library for Shepparton.
Emergency Management & Resilience
We’re strengthening emergency preparedness through planning committees, community emergency plans, and partnerships that support vulnerable residents during natural disasters and emergencies.
Animal Management & Community Amenity
Council continues to implement the Domestic Animal Management Plan, ensuring responsible pet ownership and compliance with registration requirements to maintain community safety and amenity.
COMMUNITY BENEFITS
Community Safety & Social Justice
By partnering with local agencies to reduce gender-based and family violence and support vulnerable individuals, Council is helping create a safer, more inclusive community. Businesses benefit from safer public spaces that attract customers and foster a positive environment for staff and patrons.
Access, Inclusion & Universal Design
Creating fair and accessible spaces ensures that everyone—regardless of age, ability, or background—can participate in community life. This inclusive approach supports local businesses by expanding their customer base and encouraging diverse community engagement.
Community Leadership & Volunteering
Empowering residents through leadership programs and supporting volunteer organisations strengthens community resilience and social cohesion. Businesses benefit from a more engaged and skilled local population, with volunteering often leading to valuable workforce development.
Health, Wellbeing & Social Connection
Council’s support for healthy eating, mental wellbeing, and inclusive recreational activities improves overall community health. This leads to reduced pressure on health services and creates a more vibrant, connected population—benefiting businesses through increased productivity and community engagement.
Reconciliation
Strengthening partnerships with First Nations communities fosters respect, inclusion, and shared prosperity. Businesses benefit from culturally inclusive practices and opportunities to collaborate on initiatives that support reconciliation and regional development.
Children, Youth & Families
Investing in early years services and youth wellbeing builds a strong foundation for future generations. This supports families and helps local businesses attract and retain employees by offering a family-friendly environment with quality services.
Arts, Culture & Lifelong Learning
A thriving arts and culture scene enhances liveability and attracts visitors, boosting local tourism and hospitality sectors. Lifelong learning opportunities also support workforce development and innovation across industries.
Emergency Management & Resilience
Improved emergency preparedness protects lives, property, and business continuity. Supporting vulnerable communities during disasters strengthens social resilience and ensures a faster recovery for the local economy.
Animal Management & Community Amenity
Responsible pet ownership and effective animal management contribute to safer, cleaner public spaces. This improves quality of life for residents and enhances the appeal of local areas for businesses and visitors alike.
Environment
Protecting and restoring our natural assets
OUR GOALS
Greater Shepparton is committed to protecting and enhancing our natural environment. We’re working to restore biodiversity across the region and safeguard our precious waterways - including the Goulburn and Broken Rivers, local creeks, wetlands and irrigation channels. These efforts ensure our ecosystems remain healthy and resilient for generations to come.
KEY ACTIONS
Biodiversity Protection & Land Use Planning
Council is strengthening biodiversity protection through planning schemes and land use policies, while increasing native vegetation across the municipality to support ecological health.
Habitat Restoration & Connectivity
We’re restoring and expanding wildlife corridors in strategic areas and supporting landowners with incentives and guidance to conserve native vegetation and adopt best-practice land management.
Nature-Based Urban Design
Nature-based solutions are being integrated into parks, streetscapes, and stormwater systems. Council continues to implement the Urban Forest Strategy to enhance green infrastructure and urban cooling.
Water Security & Land Management
In partnership with water authorities and catchment managers, we’re promoting sustainable water use and supporting the implementation of the Shepparton Irrigation Region Land and Management Plan.
Pollution & Litter Reduction
Council is working with water authorities to identify and implement solutions to reduce litter at key river outfall locations, including the development of an options paper for Marungi Street.
Community Education & Engagement
Through programs like RiverConnect and interpretive signage, we’re educating the community about local ecology, heritage, and environmental stewardship.
River Access & Recreation
We’re improving safe and inclusive access to rivers for walking, fishing, canoeing, and picnicking, encouraging nature-based recreation and connection to waterways.
Advocacy & Environmental Compliance
Council advocates for stronger enforcement against illegal firewood collection and for planning scheme improvements to better protect native vegetation.
Climate Change Adaptation
We’re promoting climate-resilient urban design through advocacy for infrastructure and landscape guidelines, increasing urban tree canopy cover, and supporting vulnerable communities to adapt to extreme weather.
COMMUNITY BENEFITS
Protecting Biodiversity & Planning for the Future
Strengthening biodiversity through land use planning helps preserve native ecosystems and enhances the natural beauty of Greater Shepparton. This benefits the community by supporting environmental health and providing green spaces for recreation, while businesses gain from a region that values sustainability and attracts eco-conscious investment.
Restoring Habitats & Supporting Landowners
Expanding wildlife corridors and supporting landowners with conservation efforts improves ecological connectivity and land resilience. These actions help protect local flora and fauna, while offering landowners and agricultural businesses practical guidance and incentives for sustainable land management.
Nature-Based Urban Design
Integrating nature-based solutions into parks, streetscapes, and stormwater systems improves urban cooling, reduces flood risk, and enhances public spaces. This creates healthier, more attractive environments for residents and visitors, and supports businesses by increasing foot traffic and liveability.
Water Security & Sustainable Land Management
Collaborating with water authorities ensures responsible water use and supports long-term sustainability. These efforts benefit the agricultural sector, reduce costs for businesses, and help the community adapt to changing climate conditions.
Reducing Pollution & Litter
Targeted litter reduction initiatives improve the cleanliness and safety of public spaces, enhancing community pride and the appeal of local areas for tourism and business. Cleaner waterways also support environmental health and recreational use.
Community Education & Engagement
Programs like RiverConnect and interpretive signage foster environmental awareness and stewardship. Educated communities are more engaged in sustainability efforts, which supports long-term ecological health and creates opportunities for eco-tourism and local partnerships.
Improving River Access & Recreation
Enhancing access to rivers for walking, fishing, canoeing, and picnicking encourages outdoor activity and strengthens community connection to nature. These improvements also support tourism and local businesses that cater to recreational visitors.
Advocacy & Environmental Compliance
Council’s advocacy for stronger environmental protections ensures long-term sustainability and compliance with regulations. This benefits businesses by creating a stable and responsible operating environment and supports community efforts to protect natural assets.
Adapting to Climate Change
Promoting climate-resilient urban design and increasing tree canopy cover helps mitigate extreme weather impacts and improve liveability. Supporting vulnerable communities to adapt also strengthens social resilience, while businesses benefit from reduced climate-related risks and enhanced public infrastructure.
Your Council
Responsive, evidence-based, financially sustainable governance
OUR GOALS
Greater Shepparton is committed to strong, transparent and community-focused governance. We maintain financial leadership while delivering excellent customer service and meaningful community engagement. Through advocacy and collaboration, we represent and support our community’s needs. By fostering trust, celebrating local achievements, and communicating openly, we continue to build strong connections between Council and the community.
KEY ACTIONS
Financial Sustainability & Operational Efficiencies
Council is focused on delivering cost-effective services through a service optimisation program and achieving operational savings over the next four years. We’re strengthening financial decision-making with ongoing training, integrated data systems, and data-driven asset management to reduce long-term costs.
Customer Experience & Digital Transformation
We’re enhancing customer service by delivering on our Customer Commitment and using technology to improve choice and efficiency. A new website is being developed to streamline processes and improve the overall customer experience.
Community Engagement & Trust
Council is building trust through proactive communication, community events, and celebrations that recognise local achievements and partnerships.
Advocacy & Government Relations
We’re developing an advocacy strategy aligned with community priorities and ensuring transparency by communicating campaign outcomes and wins to stakeholders and the public.
Transparency & Reporting
Council is committed to accountability through the implementation of audit outcomes, timely reporting, and consistent recognition of milestones and achievements across major projects and programs.
COMMUNITY BENEFITS
Financial Sustainability & Operational Efficiencies
By optimising services and improving financial decision-making, Council ensures that public funds are used effectively and responsibly. This benefits the community through better value for money and reliable service delivery, while businesses gain confidence in a financially stable and well-managed local government.
Customer Experience & Digital Transformation
Enhancing customer service and investing in digital tools—like a new website—makes it easier for residents and businesses to interact with Council. Streamlined processes save time, improve access to services, and support a more responsive and efficient experience.
Community Engagement & Trust
Proactive communication and community events help build trust and strengthen relationships between Council and the community. Recognising local achievements fosters pride and connection, while businesses benefit from a more engaged and supportive local environment.
Advocacy & Government Relations
A clear advocacy strategy ensures that community and business priorities are represented at state and federal levels. Communicating wins and campaign outcomes builds transparency and helps attract funding and support for local initiatives.
Transparency & Reporting
Council’s commitment to accountability through audits, reporting, and milestone recognition ensures that decisions are open and measurable. This builds public trust and provides businesses with clarity and confidence in Council’s operations and strategic direction.