Community input is being sought on draft Benalla Rural City Council Plan 2025–2029, which outlines the strategic direction for the Council over the next four years. The Council Plan is one of the most important documents Council develops, setting the goals, priorities and actions that will guide service delivery, infrastructure investment and community support.
Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn said the draft Plan reflects the values and aspirations of the community and is the result of months of collaboration.
“Since November 2024, we’ve been working alongside Ninety Mile Consulting and a representative Community Panel to shape this plan,” Cr Hearn said.
The Council recommended that the draft Plan be placed on public exhibition at its meeting on Wednesday 6 August, as the next step towards adopting the plan.
Cr Hearn said getting final feedback from the community is an important opportunity for people to ensure their voice is reflected in the final Plan.
“This is a chance for everyone – residents, businesses, community groups and young people – to influence the future direction of Benalla Rural City,” she said.
The draft Benalla Rural City Council Plan 2025-2029 is structured around five key themes: Community, Liveability, Economy, Environment and Leadership. These themes form the foundation of the plan and will guide Council’s work to support a healthy, connected and prosperous Benalla Rural City.
A copy of the draft Benalla Rural City Council Plan 2025-2029 can be downloaded from www.haveyoursay.benalla.vic.gov.au. It can also be viewed at or obtained from Council’s Customer Service Centre, 1 Bridge Street, Benalla, between 9am and 4pm Monday to Friday.
Any person who wishes to make a submission on the draft Benalla Rural City Council Plan 2025–2029 can do so by completing the online submission form, sending a written submission to Benalla Rural City Council, PO Box 227, Benalla VIC 3672, or emailing it to council@benalla.vic.gov.au
Submissions close at 5pm on Thursday 11 September 2025.