Council commits to Visitor Economy Partnership for regional growth

In Summary

Council has renewed its commitment to the Goulburn Region Visitor Economy Partnership (VEP) by signing a new Memorandum of Understanding.
The Goulburn Region VEP includes Greater Shepparton, Strathbogie and Mitchell Shire Councils, supporting regional tourism development through shared funding and advocacy.
Council’s $121,000 contribution in 2025/26 helped secure $350,000 in annual Victorian Government funding for Goulburn Region Tourism.
The partnership underpins the delivery of the Goulburn Region Destination Management Plan 2024–2029 and a major regional branding project.

Established in 2023, the Goulburn Region VEP represents Greater Shepparton, Strathbogie Shire and Mitchell Shire Councils, ensuring equitable access to advocacy, funding and strategic support for tourism development.

For the Visitor Economy Partnership to be eligible for annual Victorian Government funding, each council must financially contribute to the partnership. In the 2025/2026 financial year, Greater Shepparton City Council contributed $121,000, representing 52 per cent of the region’s visitation share. Alongside contributions from Strathbogie Shire and Mitchell Shire Councils, Goulburn Regional Tourism secured $350,000 in annual funding from the Victorian Government.

“Tourism plays a critical role in shaping the future of our region’s economy. This partnership ensures Greater Shepparton has a strong voice in Victoria’s tourism sector, unlocking opportunities for increased visitation, investment, and regional growth,” Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali said.

“This Memorandum of Understanding between Goulburn Region Tourism and the three member Councils will provide a critical foundation to support the organisation into the future. The ongoing support of this entity will create opportunities that our region has historically not been able to access.”

Goulburn Region Tourism continues to showcase the region’s potential for tourism growth and development. Goulburn Region Tourism is leading delivery of the Goulburn Region Destination Management Plan 2024–2029 and is currently progressing a major regional branding project.

Read the full MOU here

For further information, please call Council on 5832 9700 or email council@shepparton.vic.gov.au