Benalla Rural City Council is committed to fostering a sustainable and resilient future for our community. Through proactive initiatives and partnerships, we aim to address environmental challenges, adapt to climate change, and support the community in protecting our natural surroundings. Below is an overview of our work.

Climate Change

By 2030, Benalla Rural City will face significant climate changes. Predictions include more frequent extreme weather events such as fire, drought, and floods. We can also expect:

• Warmer average annual temperatures.
• An increase in the number of days over 30°C.
• A reduction in total average annual rainfall.

To prepare for these impacts, we have set clear priorities and actions under the Climate Change Adaptation Action Plan 2013-2025. Exciting updates will soon follow with the adoption of the new Climate and Environment Plan.

For resources on adapting to climate change, download the following:

• Climate Change Adaptation Action Plan 2013-2025 (PDF, 136KB).
• We Live in a Changing Climate (PDF, 2MB)].

We encourage community participation and partnerships to build resilience against future challenges.

Native Wildlife

Benalla Rural City is home to several rare and endangered species. Protecting these species is vital to preserving our region’s biodiversity. 

Key species include:

• Squirrel Gliders
• Brush-tailed Phascogale
• Regent Honeyeater
• Grey-crowned Babbler
• Macquarie Perch
• Growling Grass Frog
• Lima stringybark (locally endemic).

Our Council works with local organisations and the community to safeguard these species and their habitats.

Goulburn Murray Climate Alliance (GMCA)

Benalla Rural City is proud to be a member of the Goulburn Murray Climate Alliance (GMCA), previously known as the Goulburn Broken Greenhouse Alliance. Since 2007, the GMCA has played a pivotal role in driving regional action on climate change.

The GMCA comprises 13 local governments, as well as the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority, North East Catchment Management Authority, and DEECA (Hume). Key initiatives include promoting climate-smart agricultural practices and advancing electric vehicle use in council fleets.

For more details, visit the GMCA website.

Find out more (link to sub pages)

• Weeds Guide: Learn about identifying and managing weeds in Benalla Rural City.
• Removal of Vegetation: Information on regulations and processes for removing native vegetation.
• Pests and Nuisance Animals: Guidance on managing common pests and nuisance animals.