Wellington and South Gippsland shire councils are asking for community feedback to help plan for anticipated growth across the two regions.
A short, three-question survey is open until November 30, asking people to identify the region’s biggest challenges and opportunities. The feedback will help to inform development of a Wellington and South Gippsland Energy Readiness Plan.
The community can also meet the project team at local events in November and early December. These informal pop-ups will give people a chance to ask questions and share their views on future growth.
The Wellington and South Gippsland Energy Readiness Plan will help the councils understand how the region could change as energy and other major projects are developed. It will look at what future growth could mean for local communities, including housing, jobs, roads, infrastructure, services and community facilities.
This major planning project is funded by the federal government under the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program.
The Energy Readiness Plan is being prepared by the councils with support from specialist consulting teams Cushman & Wakefield and Cogency Australia.
Wellington Shire mayor Cindy Madeley said early planning was important for the region.
“Change is already happening across our region. We need to understand what this could mean for our communities and plan for the future,” she said.
“Local people know their towns and communities best. Their views can help us understand what matters most and where we need to focus our efforts.
“I encourage everyone to complete the short survey. It is an easy way to share your thoughts and help inform the next stage of the Energy Readiness Plan.”
South Gippsland mayor Nathan Hearsey said community input would help identify local priorities.
“We want to make sure our region is ready for future growth. This means understanding the challenges we may face and the opportunities we could create,” he said.
“We also need to understand what people value about their communities and what they want to protect as change takes place.
“I encourage residents, businesses and community groups to take part in the survey. Your feedback will help us build a clearer picture of what matters across Wellington and South Gippsland.”
Project manager Chris Wightman said the Energy Readiness Plan was still in its early stages.
“During September and October, the project team held over 40 detailed interviews with community groups, government agencies, council teams and major project proponents. They explored local concerns, community priorities and opportunities for the region,” he said.
“The team is also reviewing data and research. Together, this work will help identify the main issues and opportunities that councils need to consider.”
Feedback from stakeholders and the community will help prepare an initial issues and opportunities report, which is expected to be presented to both councils in early 2027.
The survey can be completed at your.wellington.vic.gov.au/energy-readiness-plan/survey
The project team will hold a pop-up events at the Sale Sunday Market this Sunday from 7am to 1pm, and the Yarram Agricultural Show on Saturday, November 21, from 9am to 2pm.
