the major economic, social and demographic issues facing rural councils and those of regional cities. That said, it is also hoped that the important, mutual opportunities and benefits of constructive relationships and collaborations between regional cities, as the hubs of regional economies, and their neighbouring rural (hinterland) councils are given due consideration by the panel, particularly with regard to investment decision making and service planning. Building on existing research The review occurs in a context of significant existing research and information - work that has been undertaken by local governments and up to Federal levels. This work provides a wealth of information relevant to the issues identified in the terms of reference for the review. This includes the extensive regional strategy work that has been undertaken in the Loddon Mallee region over recent periods and related plans such as the Loddon Mallee Regional Strategic Plan and Loddon Mallee Regional Growth Plan. Each Plan has been developed with consultation from the region and outlines the future opportunities and challenges for Loddon Mallee, identifying a range of initiatives that require State Government leadership and support. Council has developed a range of plans and strategies in order to plan for future challenges and opportunities. Of particular relevance to the review are the Council Plan 2013-3017, Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017, Economic Development Strategy 2013-2017, Greenhouse Action Plan 2011- 2015 and Walking and Cycling Strategy 2010-2020. Benefits of Regional Development Funding The funding Council has received through Regional Development Victoria over recent years has been critical to our Council's ability to maintain quality infrastructure, promote growth and support community development. It has enabled us to undertake a range of projects and programs that we would not have had capacity for otherwise, and the flow-on benefits have delivered important economic and social outcomes for our communities. Direct funding from Regional Development Victoria has contributed to projects including development of our walking and cycling trails, planning and implementation projects to improve the appearance of our small towns, tourism development and a range of feasibility and business planning projects to support key community organisations. Future Priorities The key priorities for Council are articulated in the goals of the Council Plan 2013-2017: A vibrant and healthy community Better community facilities A thriving local economy Building sustainable communities
the major economic, social and demographic issues facing rural councils and those of regional cities. That said, it is also hoped that the important, mutual opportunities and benefits of constructive relationships and collaborations between regional cities, as the hubs of regional economies, and their neighbouring rural (hinterland) councils are given due consideration by the panel, particularly with regard to investment decision making and service planning. Building on existing research The review occurs in a context of significant existing research and information - work that has been undertaken by local governments and up to Federal levels. This work provides a wealth of information relevant to the issues identified in the terms of reference for the review. This includes the extensive regional strategy work that has been undertaken in the Loddon Mallee region over recent periods and related plans such as the Loddon Mallee Regional Strategic Plan and Loddon Mallee Regional Growth Plan. Each Plan has been developed with consultation from the region and outlines the future opportunities and challenges for Loddon Mallee, identifying a range of initiatives that require State Government leadership and support. Council has developed a range of plans and strategies in order to plan for future challenges and opportunities. Of particular relevance to the review are the Council Plan 2013-3017, Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017, Economic Development Strategy 2013-2017, Greenhouse Action Plan 2011- 2015 and Walking and Cycling Strategy 2010-2020. Benefits of Regional Development Funding The funding Council has received through Regional Development Victoria over recent years has been critical to our Council's ability to maintain quality infrastructure, promote growth and support community development. It has enabled us to undertake a range of projects and programs that we would not have had capacity for otherwise, and the flow-on benefits have delivered important economic and social outcomes for our communities. Direct funding from Regional Development Victoria has contributed to projects including development of our walking and cycling trails, planning and implementation projects to improve the appearance of our small towns, tourism development and a range of feasibility and business planning projects to support key community organisations. Future Priorities The key priorities for Council are articulated in the goals of the Council Plan 2013-2017: A vibrant and healthy community Better community facilities A thriving local economy Building sustainable communities
Mount-Alexander-Shire-Council.docx