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This article was published on Wednesday, 28 May, 2025. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Economic Accord formalises partnership between Regional Councils

In Summary

Council has endorsed the 2025 Economic Accord alongside Campaspe and Moira Shire Councils to strengthen regional economic collaboration.
The Accord outlines shared strategies to support local businesses, attract investment, and address key challenges such as water buybacks and manufacturing sustainability.
Priorities were shaped through community and industry input, including the February 2025 Manufacturer’s Roundtable, focusing on infrastructure, jobs and workforce development.
Implementation will now begin across the three councils, aiming for coordinated advocacy and actions that deliver long-term regional benefits.

The Economic Accord sets out shared principles and coordinated strategies to support local businesses, attract investment, and respond to region-wide challenges including the impacts of water buybacks and the sustainability of the manufacturing sector.

Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, welcomed the partnership, noting its importance in strengthening the region’s voice on key economic issues.

“By working together with our neighbouring Councils, we are sending a clear message that regional prosperity requires a coordinated, strategic approach, especially when it comes to investment, manufacturing, infrastructure and job creation,” he said.

The Accord was shaped through direct engagement with local industry leaders and community representatives, including input from the Manufacturer’s Roundtable held in February 2025. Key priorities identified through the process included advocacy for infrastructure upgrades, workforce development, and supporting regional manufacturing.

A key feature of the Accord is a shared commitment to advocate for fairer outcomes in response to water buybacks, with a strong focus on preserving and creating jobs in affected communities.

“The manufacturing sector is the backbone of our regional economy, we must ensure it remains strong, competitive and sustainable in the face of growing national and global pressures. This Accord gives us a roadmap to achieve that,” Cr Sali said.

The Accord was officially endorsed by Greater Shepparton City Council at its May Council Meeting and can now be signed. Implementation will now begin across the three partner councils, with a focus on ongoing collaboration, advocacy and outcomes that benefit the entire region.

Tap here for more information and to view the 2025 Economic Accord.

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