Greater Shepparton City Council advocates for strategic investment across the region

The two-day agenda will involve meetings at Parliament House with Ministers and Shadow Ministers on priorities for the region, including a safer and more resilient road network, a significant and contemporary regional public health system, a bus network review, infrastructure funding to enable growth, and funding to ensure a sustainable future.

Greater Shepparton’s current population of 71,028 is forecast to grow to 81,022 in 2046, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said this growth required significant investment.

“The current infrastructure and funding for our region has not kept up with this growth and will be totally inadequate in the future. We need a resilient road network and transport solutions to meet this demand, along with creating local jobs and supporting industries as they adapt to changing demands,” he said.

“With freight and population growth straining infrastructure, Council is advocating for a new Goulburn River Bridge, key intersection upgrades, and road maintenance investment to ensure safer, more efficient transport.”

Greater Shepparton plays a vital role as a major service centre for the Goulburn Valley and southern New South Wales, supporting a population of approximately 250,000 people. It is a strategic hub in the national freight and logistics chain, underpinning agricultural and manufacturing industries with freight movements between all capital cities and ports.

Cr Sali said the increasing freight activity is placing strain on infrastructure, particularly the Goulburn Valley Highway.

“Council’s Road Network Resilience Package proposes a comprehensive solution including the construction of a new Goulburn River Bridge, upgrades to key intersections, and investment in road maintenance,” he said.

“Despite rapid development, Greater Shepparton’s bus network hasn’t been reviewed in over 15 years. This is unacceptable. Council is calling for funding to deliver a modern, reliable, and sustainable public transport system that connects all communities.”

“Public transport options for smaller towns outside Shepparton are very limited with Tatura residents facing travel times of up to two hours to Shepparton, despite being only a 20-minute drive away,” Cr Sali said.

“If you work in Mooroopna or Shepparton or need to attend appointments, you can’t rely on the bus network to get you there on time.”

Council is calling on the Victorian Government to commit development funding in next year’s budget for a major review of the bus network and to fund the implementation of a modern, faster, more reliable, and environmentally sustainable transport system for the region.

“Council is also advocating for a strategic, well-resourced planning approach to secure a sustainable future for industry and community,” Cr Sali said.

“The discontinuation of the Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund (RJIF) has left a gap in funding for key economic development and community-led projects. A refreshed RJIF program is critical to help regional communities and industry build resilience and create a strong future.

“I want to pick up a State Budget and see a clear line item that acknowledges regional investment.”

One of Greater Shepparton’s top priorities is upgrading the Shepparton Sports Stadium — the last step in completing Sports City. Over 15 years, with support from State and Federal Governments, Sports City has become regional Victoria’s leading sports hub. The new Shepparton Sports and Events Centre will host major sports, entertainment, and events, attracting visitors and strengthening Shepparton’s status as a destination.

“We’re working with others and speaking up to get the support, funding, and action our region needs,” Cr Sali said.

“While the 2026 State Budget is several months away, now is the time for Council to be on the front foot in regards to advocacy. It’s not about what’s fair for our region, it’s about what is right.”

To find out more about Greater Shepparton City Council’s Victorian Government Priorities 2025/26, visit our advocacy website.