Moorabool Shire Council

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Approve new two-year CWA lease for Darley Civic & Community Hub space.
• Commence 30-day consultation to rename Bacchus Street (Maddingley) to “Rosella Close”.
• Commence 30-day consultation to rename Duncan Street (Ballan) section to “Shamrock Court”.
• Seek Minister authorisation and exhibit Planning Scheme Amendment C114moor (Heritage Overlay changes).
• Receive Year Four progress report for Female Friendly Sport and Recreation Strategy 2022–2032.
• Approve Library Strategy community engagement plan (Sept–Oct 2026) for 2027–2032 strategy.

Detailed Descriptions

Approve new two-year CWA lease for Darley Civic & Community Hub space

• Context: The Country Women’s Association (CWA) Bacchus Marsh Branch currently occupies part of the Darley Civic and Community Hub, and its previous agreement has expired. Council is required to approve a new lease to formalise continued community use.
• Details:
  • Location/space: Part of Darley Civic & Community Hub, 182 Halletts Way, Darley.
  • Lease term: Two (2) years, with an option to extend for a further one (1) year.
  • Lease fee: $1.00 + GST per annum.
  • Outgoings: $809.47 + GST per annum, charged separately and subject to annual CPI adjustment (March Quarter, All Groups – Melbourne Index).
  • Access hours approved: Monday to Friday, 8:00am–5:00pm.
  • Council decision date: Ordinary Council Meeting, 2 September 2026 (resolution carried).
• Impact: Secures ongoing community meeting, craft, catering and programs for CWA members and the broader Bacchus Marsh community, while formalising fair cost recovery through outgoings and CPI adjustments.
• Next steps: Officers will prepare and execute the new lease agreement on the approved terms, including setting up the updated access arrangements and outgoing charge structure.

Commence 30-day consultation to rename Bacchus Street (Maddingley) to “Rosella Close”

• Context: Council received a community request to rename the eastern section of Bacchus Street, Maddingley. The matter requires community consultation to confirm support and manage address/safety implications.
• Details:
  • Proposed change: Rename the eastern section of Bacchus Street, Maddingley to “Rosella Close”.
  • Consultation period: 30 days via Have Your Say (commencing as approved at the 2 September 2026 meeting).
  • Consultation method: Direct letters to adjoining landowners/residents and a general community submission process via Have Your Say and local newspapers (September–October 2026 timeframe noted in the report).
  • Section 223 meeting: To be convened for submitters wishing to address Council directly.
  • Affected addresses (3):
    • 1 Bacchus Street, Maddingley VIC 3340
    • 1A Bacchus Street, Maddingley VIC 3340
    • Bacchus Street, Maddingley VIC 3340 (Southern Rural Water)
  • Risk noted: Potential public safety/emergency access issues if addresses/locations are not updated correctly during the transition.
• Impact: Improves operational safety and reduces confusion for emergency services, postal services and motorists by aligning the street name/boundary with current access realities (including blocked/unsealed eastern end).
• Next steps: After the 30-day consultation ends, a further report will be brought back to Council to consider submissions and decide whether to proceed with the renaming.

Commence 30-day consultation to rename Duncan Street (Ballan) section to “Shamrock Court”

• Context: Council has previously considered renaming part of Duncan Street, Ballan, but the matter was deferred. A renewed request seeks to rename the northern section to “Shamrock Court” to address ongoing address and service confusion.
• Details:
  • Proposed change: Rename the northern section of Duncan Street, Ballan (off Simpson Street) to “Shamrock Court”.
  • Consultation period: 30 days via Have Your Say (commencing as approved at the 2 September 2026 meeting).
  • Consultation method: Direct letters to adjoining landowners/residents and general community submissions via website/local newspapers (September–October 2026 timeframe noted in the report).
  • Section 223 meeting: To be convened for submitters wishing to address Council directly.
  • Affected addresses (3 residential properties):
    • 26 Duncan Street, Ballan VIC 3342
    • 27 Duncan Street, Ballan VIC 3342
    • 28 Duncan Street, Ballan VIC 3342
  • Community rationale: “Shamrock Court” reflects local historical/cultural significance linked to St Brigid’s Church entrance gates adorned with shamrocks (installed 1912).
  • Risk noted: Potential public safety issues if emergency services cannot locate dwellings during the transition.
• Impact: Reduces confusion for residents, visitors, emergency services, delivery drivers and service providers caused by Duncan Street being physically divided by Inglis Street while sharing the same street name.
• Next steps: Following completion of the 30-day consultation, Council will receive a further report to consider submissions and determine whether to proceed.

Seek Minister authorisation and exhibit Planning Scheme Amendment C114moor (Heritage Overlay changes)

• Context: Council is preparing Planning Scheme Amendment C114moor to update heritage protections in the Moorabool Planning Scheme. Ministerial authorisation is required before the amendment can be exhibited.
• Details:
  • Amendment name: Planning Scheme Amendment C114moor.
  • Minister authorisation sought: To prepare and exhibit the amendment (resolution carried 2 September 2026).
  • Heritage Overlay changes proposed:
    • Apply Heritage Overlay to:
      • Phalp’s Farm, 57 Ditchfield Road North, Yendon (HO319)
      • Blake Residence, 16 Taverner Street, Maddingley (HO320)
    • Amend existing overlays:
      • HO22 – Carween Homestead and Garden: correct address to 50 Ballan–Daylesford Road, Ballan; update controls/mapping and rename schedule entry.
      • HO26 – Ballark Homestead and Cemetery: correct address to 1579 Ballan–Meredith Road, Morrisons; refine curtilage mapping and update controls.
  • Incorporated/Background documents:
    • Statements of significance to be included as Incorporated Documents in Clause 72.04
    • Heritage citations as Background Documents in Clause 72.08
  • Next statutory step after authorisation: Public exhibition under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 (including Ministerial Direction No. 15).
• Impact: Strengthens and clarifies long-term heritage protection for identified places, improving certainty for planning decisions and ensuring significant sites are conserved for current and future generations.
• Next steps:
  • Submit for Minister for Planning authorisation.
  • Upon authorisation (noted as ~40 business days from receipt), Council will prepare and exhibit the amendment, receive submissions, and then report back to Council post-exhibition (with unresolved matters potentially referred to an independent Planning Panel).

Receive Year Four progress report for Female Friendly Sport and Recreation Strategy 2022–2032

• Context: The Moorabool Shire Female Friendly Sport and Recreation Participation and Infrastructure Strategy 2022–2032 was adopted in March 2022 and is implemented through staged actions. Council is receiving the Year Four progress update.
• Details:
  • Strategy scope: 17 actions comprising 91 activities scheduled across the first three years of implementation.
  • Year Four reporting focus: Progress to date and priority actions carried into Year Four.
  • Reported activity status (Years 1–3 review):
    • 16 completed (18%)
    • 32 ongoing/embedded (35%)
    • 31 in progress (34%)
    • 12 carry forward to Year Four (13%)
  • Council decision date: 2 September 2026 (resolution carried to receive the report).
• Impact: Maintains momentum on improving participation, access, facility planning, leadership and safe/sociable sport and recreation outcomes for women and girls—while also supporting broader inclusion outcomes.
• Next steps: Continue delivery of Year Four priority actions through existing operational programs/capital projects and report progress through the strategy’s ongoing implementation cycle.

Approve Library Strategy community engagement plan (Sept–Oct 2026) for 2027–2032 strategy

• Context: Council is developing a new Moorabool Shire Libraries Strategy to guide library service delivery and planning for 2027–2032. A community engagement plan is required to inform the draft strategy.
• Details:
  • Engagement purpose: Gather community and stakeholder input to inform the draft Library Strategy.
  • Engagement timing: September–October 2026.
  • Engagement methods (as approved):
    • Surveys via Have Your Say portal
    • Hard copy surveys at Customer Service and libraries
    • Phone concierge service to receive feedback
    • Postcards at key facilities
    • In-person drop-in sessions
    • Meetings with community groups
    • Councillor 1:1s (collaboration with Councillors)
    • Internal Council team input via direct email and meetings
  • Target groups referenced:
    • Community groups
    • Library members
    • Neighbourhood Houses / local seniors related groups / service providers / peak/advocacy bodies / senior citizens clubs
  • Council decision date: 2 September 2026 (resolution carried).
  • Adoption timeline noted: Final adoption planned for June 2027 (draft to go to Council for consideration and then public exhibition).
• Impact: Ensures the 2027–2032 Library Strategy reflects local needs and expectations, improving service alignment and community trust through structured, transparent consultation.
• Next steps: After engagement concludes, officers will prepare a further report to Council with outcomes to inform a draft strategy for Council consideration, public exhibition, and final adoption (planned June 2027).

Community Impact

• Darley Civic & Community Hub (Bacchus Marsh residents): New 2-year lease for the Country Women’s Association (CWA) with expanded access Monday–Friday 8am–5pm, supporting continued community meetings, craft and catering activities
• Bacchus Street, Maddingley residents: 30-day community consultation on renaming the eastern section of Bacchus Street to “Rosella Close,” potentially changing addresses and affecting emergency services, mail and deliveries
• Duncan Street, Ballan residents: 30-day community consultation on renaming part of Duncan Street to “Shamrock Court,” requiring affected households (26–28 Duncan St) to update address details with agencies and Australia Post if approved
• Affected property owners (heritage overlay areas): Planning Scheme Amendment C114moor seeks Heritage Overlay changes and corrections for specific properties (including new overlay controls and refined heritage curtilage), which may restrict/shape future development approvals (e.g., solar, trees, outbuildings/fences, internal alterations)
• Women and girls in sport/recreation (whole shire): Year Four continuation of the Female Friendly Sport and Recreation Participation and Infrastructure Strategy, supporting ongoing participation monitoring, inclusive facility planning and leadership opportunities
• Library users and community members (whole shire): Community engagement (Sep–Oct 2026) to inform the new Library Strategy 2027–2032, which may lead to changes in library service delivery priorities based on survey and consultation feedback

Other Notable Items

• Community consultation approved for Bacchus Street rename to “Rosella Close” (30 days via Have Your Say).
• Community consultation approved for Duncan Street rename to “Shamrock Court” (30 days via Have Your Say).
• Heritage Overlay Amendment C114moor progressed toward Minister authorisation to protect four heritage sites.
• Library Strategy community engagement approved (Sep–Oct 2026), with final adoption planned for June 2027.
• Capital Improvement Program update: 46/51 planned projects completed by 30 June 2026; 7 projects on hold.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Meeting livestreaming (online recording/stream of Council proceedings).
• Community consultation via “Have Your Say” website portal (used for proposed road renamings).
• Library Strategy community engagement includes an online “Have Your Say” portal and other digital/remote feedback channels (e.g., online surveys/feedback).
• Customer Charter community consultation includes “variety of online and offline promotions”.
• Planning Scheme Amendment process includes consultation/notification via Council’s “Have Your Say” website (and related statutory notices).
• “MAV Impacts of AI on Governance and Democratic Innovation” roundtable discussion with an online component.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Approved CEO Derek Madden annual leave and appointed Leigh McCallum as Acting CEO.
• Received and noted Audit and Risk Advisory Committee summary (25 February 2026).
• Confirmed minutes of 3 June 2026 and unscheduled meetings (10 and 24 June 2026).
• Received the Mayor’s report for community information.
• Received Councillors’ reports for consideration.
• Notice of rescission motion regarding bereaved parent support group feasibility was lodged (lost 4/5).

Detailed Descriptions

Approved CEO Derek Madden annual leave and appointed Leigh McCallum as Acting CEO

• Context: Council considered a request for the CEO to take annual leave and the need to ensure continuity of leadership during the absence.
• Details: Approved leave for CEO Derek Madden from 5.00pm Friday 10 July 2026 to 8.30am Monday 20 July 2026. Appointed Leigh McCallum as Acting CEO for the same period (5.00pm 10 July 2026 to 8.30am 20 July 2026).
• Impact: Ensures uninterrupted executive governance and decision-making capacity while the CEO is on leave.
• Next steps: The Acting CEO arrangement applies for the approved leave period (10–20 July 2026), with operational continuity maintained by Leigh McCallum.

Received and noted Audit and Risk Advisory Committee summary (25 February 2026)

• Context: Council received advisory committee reporting to support governance and oversight responsibilities.
• Details: Council received and noted the Audit and Risk Advisory Committee Summary of Minutes for the meeting held on Wednesday 25 February 2026. Council representatives listed for that committee meeting included Cr Moira Berry, Cr Steve Venditti- Taylor, and Cr Paul Tatchell (Sub).
• Impact: Strengthens Council’s audit, risk, and compliance oversight by ensuring committee outputs are formally considered.
• Next steps: The committee summary remains on Council’s record; any recommendations would be progressed through Council processes as required.

Confirmed minutes of 3 June 2026 and unscheduled meetings (10 and 24 June 2026)

• Context: Council confirmed the accuracy of prior meeting records as part of standard governance.
• Details: Council confirmed the minutes of:
  • Ordinary Council Meeting held on Wednesday 3 June 2026
  • Unscheduled Council Meeting held on Wednesday 10 June 2026
  • Unscheduled Council Meeting held on Wednesday 24 June 2026
    This was resolved on Wednesday 1 July 2026.
• Impact: Provides formal approval of prior deliberations and ensures continuity of Council decision-making records.
• Next steps: The confirmed minutes stand as the official record for those meetings.

Received the Mayor’s report for community information

• Context: The Mayor’s report is tabled to inform the community of meetings and events attended since the previous Ordinary Council meeting.
• Details: Council received the Mayor’s Report at the 1 July 2026 Ordinary Council Meeting. The Mayor’s report (Cr Steven Venditti-Taylor) is dated 1 July 2026 and lists activities from 5 June to 24 June 2026, including events such as:
  • Rotary Club of Bacchus Marsh – 54th Annual Art Show Gala Opening (5 June)
  • Bacchus Marsh Big Freeze (8 June)
  • Navigators Community Centre visit by Catherine King (11 June)
  • Information Session on elder Abuse (15 June)
  • Greater Ballarat Alliance of Councils – Delegation to Victorian Parliament (18 June)
  • Unscheduled Meeting of Council (10 June and 24 June)
• Impact: Improves transparency and community awareness of the Mayor’s external engagement and representation.
• Next steps: No further action recorded beyond receipt; the report is available for community information.

Received Councillors’ reports for consideration

• Context: Councillors submit reports detailing meetings and events attended since the last Ordinary Council meeting.
• Details: Council received the Councillors’ Reports at the 1 July 2026 meeting (resolution moved by Cr Tom Sullivan, seconded by Cr Moira Berry). Reports were provided by:
  • Cr Jarrod Bingham (dates listed 5 June, 13 June)
  • Cr Moira Berry (dates listed 15 June, 20 June, 23 June, 27 June, 28 June, 30 June)
  • Cr Sheila Freeman (dates listed 1 June, 3 June, 5 June, 9 June, 10 June, 13 June, 20 June, 24 June, 28 June)
  • Cr John Keogh (dates listed 6 June, 9 June, 10 June, 15 June, 17 June, 20 June, 23 June, 24 June, 30 June)
  • Cr Ally Munari (dates listed 3 June, 5 June, 9 June, 10 June, 15 June, 17 June, 24 June, 27 June, 30 June)
  • Cr Tom Sullivan (date listed 18 June)
  • Cr Rod Ward (note: Coffee with a Councillor rescheduled from 4 July to 11 July in Gordon)
• Impact: Supports accountability and transparency by documenting Councillors’ community engagement and governance-related activities.
• Next steps: Reports are received for consideration; no additional resolution beyond receipt is recorded.

Notice of rescission motion regarding bereaved parent support group feasibility was lodged (lost 4/5)

• Context: A rescission notice was lodged to overturn a prior Council resolution related to feasibility of establishing a bereaved parent support group within Moorabool Shire.
• Details: Notice of Rescission lodged by Cr Rod Ward for the next Ordinary Meeting of Council on 1 July 2026. The rescission motion sought to rescind Resolution 11.2 titled “Response to Notice of Motion No 346 – Investigation into the feasibility of establishing a bereaved parent support group within Moorabool Shire”, which was lost at the meeting of 6 May 2026.
  • Motion outcome: LOST 4/5
  • In favour: Cr Steven Venditti-Taylor, Cr Sheila Freeman, Cr John Keogh, Cr Rod Ward
  • Against: Cr Jarrod Bingham, Cr Moira Berry, Cr Ally Munari, Cr Tom Sullivan, Cr Paul Tatchell
• Impact: The attempt to rescind the earlier decision did not succeed, meaning the prior Council position/resolution remains in effect.
• Next steps: The rescission motion has been determined by Council at the 1 July 2026 meeting; no further rescission action is recorded in the minutes.

Community Impact

• Residents (Council leadership): CEO Derek Madden granted leave from 10–20 July 2026, with Leigh McCallum appointed Acting CEO for that period
• Residents (service continuity): Temporary change in senior decision-making authority during the CEO absence may affect timing/handling of council matters between 10–20 July 2026
• Residents (governance oversight): Council receives and notes the Audit and Risk Advisory Committee summary (25 February 2026), reinforcing audit/risk processes that can influence how council programs are delivered
• Bereaved parent support (community wellbeing): A notice of rescission was given to rescind the prior council resolution on investigating feasibility of establishing a bereaved parent support group (motion to be considered at the next ordinary meeting)
• Community members (future support options): If the rescission motion proceeds, the earlier investigation findings may no longer be acted on in the same way, potentially delaying or changing plans for a non-clinical bereaved parent peer support group in Moorabool Shire
• Local community (council engagement): “Coffee with a Councillor” in Gordon rescheduled from 4 July to 11 July, affecting residents’ ability to attend that engagement session on the original date

Other Notable Items

• Notice of Rescission foreshadows renewed debate on bereaved parent peer support group feasibility.
• CEO annual leave approved; Acting CEO appointed (Leigh McCallum) for 10–20 July 2026.
• Council received and noted Audit and Risk Advisory Committee summary from 25 Feb 2026.
• Mayor and Councillors reported numerous community visits, briefings, and events (e.g., elder abuse session).
• Coffee with a Councillor rescheduled from 4 July to 11 July in Gordon.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Meeting livestreaming (online recording/streaming of council proceedings)

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Adopted the 2026/27 Annual Budget under Local Government Act 2020.
• Set 2026/27 differential rates and cents/$CIV for all land classes.
• Approved 2026/27 fees and charges, including waste service charges.
• Approved making the 2026/27 Budget publicly available on Council’s website.
• Adopted the Council Plan 2025–2029 (2026 update).
• Confirmed consideration and response process for nine budget submissions.

Detailed Descriptions

Adopted the 2026/27 Annual Budget under Local Government Act 2020

• Context: Council was required to formally adopt the 2026/27 Annual Budget by 30 June 2026 under Section 94 of the Local Government Act 2020. The budget had previously been placed on public exhibition following Council’s 13 May 2026 resolution.
• Details:
  • Meeting: Unscheduled Council Meeting, Wednesday 24 June 2026 (Item 7.1).
  • Statutory basis: Local Government Act 2020, Section 94.
  • Public exhibition period: Thursday 14 May 2026 to Thursday 4 June 2026 (inclusive).
  • Submissions considered: Council considered submissions at a Special Meeting on 10 June 2026.
  • Resolution (Item 7.1):
    • Moved: Cr Rod Ward
    • Seconded: Cr Sheila Freeman
    • Council adopted the 2026/27 Annual Budget (Attachment 1) for the purpose of Section 94.
• Impact: Sets the Shire’s approved financial framework for 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027, enabling delivery of planned services and the Capital Improvement Program while meeting statutory requirements.
• Next steps:
  • Public notice of adoption on/around 25 June 2026 (per the timetable in the report).
  • Budget becomes publicly available on Council’s website (also resolved under Item 7.1).

Set 2026/27 differential rates and cents/$CIV for all land classes

• Context: As part of adopting the Annual Budget, Council needed to set the differential rates and the “rate in the dollar” (cents/$CIV) for each land class for the 12-month period from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027.
• Details:
  • Meeting: Unscheduled Council Meeting, 24 June 2026 (Item 7.1).
  • Resolution clause: Council adopted the rate in the dollar for each type of rate to be levied from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027.
  • Differential rates (cents/$CIV) adopted:
    • Commercial & Industrial Rate: 0.391138
    • Commercial & Industrial Vacant Land: 0.521516
    • Extractive Industry Rate: 0.813565
    • Farm Rate: 0.203392
    • General Rate: 0.260758
    • Vacant Land General: 0.521516
    • Vacant Land FZ and RCZ: 0.260758
    • Vacant Land GRZ: 0.521516
    • Residential Retirement Villages: 0.234682
• Impact: Determines how property owners across different land categories are charged, directly influencing household and business rate liabilities for 2026/27.
• Next steps:
  • Rates will be applied during the 2026/27 rating period (1 July 2026–30 June 2027).
  • Billing and rating notices follow Council’s budget adoption and publication processes.

Approved 2026/27 fees and charges, including waste service charges

• Context: Adoption of the Annual Budget required Council to approve the fees and charges for 2026/27, including statutory waste service charges under Section 162 of the Local Government Act 2020.
• Details:
  • Meeting: Unscheduled Council Meeting, 24 June 2026 (Item 7.1).
  • Resolution clause: Council adopted the fees and charges as attached, and adopted service charges per Section 162.
  • Waste management service charges adopted (per rateable property, 2026/27):
    • Waste Management: $144.00
    • Domestic Waste Collection: $262.00
    • Kerbside Green waste: $103.00
    • State Landfill Levy Charge: $82.00
  • Additional context from the report:
    • The budget includes a 2.75% rate increase aligned with the Fair Go Rates System (FGRS).
• Impact: Confirms the cost of waste services for residents and ensures Council can levy charges to fund waste operations, including components tied to the State landfill levy.
• Next steps:
  • Charges will be incorporated into 2026/27 rate notices and waste billing arrangements.
  • Council will provide responses to submitters following adoption (as resolved in Item 7.1).

Approved making the 2026/27 Budget publicly available on Council’s website

• Context: After statutory adoption, Council needed to ensure the community could access the adopted budget documentation.
• Details:
  • Meeting: Unscheduled Council Meeting, 24 June 2026 (Item 7.1).
  • Resolution clause: Council resolved to “Make the 2026/27 Budget publicly available on Council’s website.”
  • Related timetable noted in the report:
    • Public Notice – Adoption of 2026/27 Annual Budget: 25 June 2026.
• Impact: Improves transparency and community access to the adopted budget, including rates, fees, waste charges, and the Capital Improvement Program.
• Next steps:
  • Publication on Council’s website following adoption (immediately after 24 June 2026, aligned with the 25 June 2026 notice/timetable).

Adopted the Council Plan 2025–2029 (2026 update)

• Context: Council’s four-year Council Plan is reviewed annually; the 2026 update is the first year of updates to the 2025–2029 plan. The update was presented for adoption after minor changes were made.
• Details:
  • Meeting: Unscheduled Council Meeting, 24 June 2026 (Item 7.2).
  • Resolution (Item 7.2):
    • Moved: Cr Rod Ward
    • Seconded: Cr Sheila Freeman
    • Council adopted the Council Plan 2025–2029 (2026 update) included in Attachment 1.
  • Nature of changes (per report):
    • Minor updates including grammar, formatting, photographs, and small amendments to actions.
  • Communications note:
    • After adoption, the document will be placed on Council’s website.
• Impact: Confirms the strategic direction and priorities that guide service delivery and resourcing for 2026/27 and beyond.
• Next steps:
  • Council Plan document to be published on Council’s website after adoption (following the meeting on 24 June 2026).

Confirmed consideration and response process for nine budget submissions

• Context: Under the Local Government Act 2020, Council needed to receive, consider, and respond to submissions made during the public exhibition period for the Proposed 2026/27 Annual Budget.
• Details:
  • Meeting: Unscheduled Council Meeting, 24 June 2026 (Item 7.1).
  • Submissions:
    • Total submissions received: nine (9) written submissions
    • Submission cut-off date: 4 June 2026
    • Considered at: Special Meeting of Council on 10 June 2026
  • Resolution clause (Item 7.1):
    1. Notes verbal and written submissions received and considered at 10 June 2026 Special Meeting (Table 1.1).
    2. Takes into consideration matters raised within submissions in consideration of the 2026/27 Annual Budget.
    3. Following adoption, provides responses to each submitter.
• Impact: Ensures community input is formally recorded, considered in budget deliberations, and transparently responded to—supporting trust in the budget process.
• Next steps:
  • After 24 June 2026 adoption, Council will issue responses to each of the nine submitters.
  • Responses align with the process confirmed in the adopted resolution (Item 7.1).

Community Impact

• Residents (ratepayers): 2.75% adoption of the 2026/27 Annual Budget rate increase, with different cents/$CIV rates applied by land type (including higher rates for some vacant/commercial categories)
• Households (waste services): 2026/27 waste service charges adopted, including Waste Management $144, Domestic Waste Collection $262, kerbside green waste $103, and State Landfill Levy Charge $82 per rateable property
• Residents needing hard waste access: Kerbside hard waste service proposed for up to 500 properties (reserved for elderly and unable), while all properties retain subsidised drop-off access at council transfer stations (2 x 1m³ annually)
• Pedestrians and local commuters: Funding consideration for missing footpath links (e.g., Margaret Drive identified as a missing pedestrian connection) carried in Council’s Long Term Capital Improvement Program for future prioritisation
• Bacchus Marsh and Gordon residents: Place-based activations for small towns in 2026/27 (destination branding/marketing, arts-led placemaking including Hide + Seek Arts Festival, and an Arts and Culture Strategy review)
• Community facility users (Bacchus Marsh): White Avenue Playground Renewal funding included for 2026/27, with skatepark/Rotary Park improvements to be considered through future planning and budget processes

Other Notable Items

• Community submissions raised about waste services, including kerbside hard waste access and elderly prioritisation.
• Footpath concerns: Margaret Drive missing links identified; to remain on long-term capital funding master list.
• Aqualink query: request to complete western section; remains on advocacy/long-term capital improvement list.
• Gordon township issues raised: explanation sought for past TIP funding gaps and visitor economy priorities.
• Future planning: skatepark/Rotary Park investment and community consultation to be considered via infrastructure audit.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Council meeting held “Council Chambers… & Online” (online meeting format).
• “Makes the 2026/27 Budget publicly available on Council’s website.”
• “Following adoption… the document will be placed on Council’s website.” (Council Plan 2025–2029 (2026 update)).
• Mentions of IT/process efficiency: “targeted operational efficiency improvement to 83.78% for statutory planning timelines” (process/administrative efficiency, not explicitly IT/cyber).

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Receive nine public submissions for the 2026/27 Annual Budget consideration.
• Adopt 2026/27 Annual Budget deliberations to occur at 24 June 2026 special meeting.
• Provide written responses to each budget submitter after adoption.
• Incorporate submitter matters into 2026/27 Annual Budget consideration.
• Confirm planned infrastructure priorities reflected in budget submissions (e.g., White Avenue Park/Playground).

Detailed Descriptions

Receive nine public submissions for the 2026/27 Annual Budget consideration

• Context: Council commenced statutory processes for the 2026/27 Annual Budget and invited public submissions following public notice and “Have Your Say” consultation.
• Details:
  • Nine (9) written submissions were received in total by the closing date of 4 June 2026.
  • The submissions were received in response to the Proposed 2026/27 Annual Budget advertised for public comment from Thursday 15 May 2026 to 5.00pm Thursday 4 June 2026.
  • Two (2) submitters indicated an intention to be heard in support of their written submissions at the Council meeting process.
• Impact: Ensures Council’s budget deliberations are informed by community priorities, including waste service equity, local infrastructure gaps, and delivery/strategy concerns.
• Next steps: Council formally receives the submissions and then considers them as part of the budget adoption process at the scheduled special meeting on Wednesday 24 June 2026.

Adopt 2026/27 Annual Budget deliberations to occur at 24 June 2026 special meeting

• Context: The budget process requires submissions to be heard/considered prior to adoption, consistent with the Local Government Act 2020.
• Details:
  • Council resolved that submissions would be considered before the budget is adopted at a Special Meeting of Council.
  • Adoption deliberations are scheduled for Wednesday 24 June 2026.
• Impact: Provides a clear governance timeline so community feedback can be considered before final budget decisions are made.
• Next steps: Officers incorporate submitter matters into the budget consideration package for 24 June 2026, and Council proceeds to adoption at that special meeting.

Provide written responses to each budget submitter after adoption

• Context: The budget submissions process includes a requirement to respond to submitters following Council’s final adoption decision.
• Details:
  • Council’s resolution includes that Council will provide a response to each submitter following the adoption of the 2026/27 Annual Budget.
  • The nine submitters are:
    1. Andrea Stranaghan
    2. Robert Reid
    3. Chris Cathcart
    4. Tom Bloomfield
    5. Daniel Emmerson
    6. Lauren Wall
    7. Scott Graham (submission 1)
    8. Scott Graham (submission 2)
    9. Scott Graham (submission 3)
• Impact: Improves transparency and accountability by closing the feedback loop with each resident/submitter.
• Next steps: After the 24 June 2026 adoption, Council/Officers prepare and issue written responses to all nine submitters.

Incorporate submitter matters into 2026/27 Annual Budget consideration

• Context: Council’s submissions reflect key themes that require consideration during budget deliberations prior to adoption.
• Details:
  • Council identified key themes across the submissions:
    • Waste services and cost pressures: concerns about lack of universal hard waste collection and equity for residents without transport/additional needs.
    • Local infrastructure priorities: requests to address gaps and support planned investments (e.g., White Avenue Park/Playground, missing footpath links, Aqualink completion, skate park upgrades).
    • Equity in service mix: concerns about perceived imbalance in who benefits directly from service areas amid rate/charge increases.
    • Delivery and alignment of strategies: frustration about township-level initiatives (notably Gordon) and expectations for clearer delivery/communication.
    • Sustainability: feedback noting the absence of visible renewable energy/environmental initiatives.
  • Specific submitter matters raised (as recorded in the minutes) include:
    • Andrea Stranaghan: hard waste collection should be provided as part of the service; criticises capping at 500 and questions priority/equity for residents with additional needs.
    • Robert Reid: suggests alternatives to universal hard waste—e.g., one free council hard waste collection (up to 3 cubic meters) or one free drop-off at the transfer station (up to 2 cubic meters), not both.
    • Chris Cathcart: supports White Avenue Park upgrade and requests a missing critical footpath link on/near Margaret Drive (identified as a hazard for pedestrians/prams).
    • Tom Bloomfield: supports White Avenue Playground Renewal and asks whether there is a plan to complete the Aqualink project—specifically the western section to connect through to the Werribee River.
    • Daniel Emmerson: feedback on cost-of-living pressures and equity; urges advocacy regarding State Landfill Levy Charge impacts; notes lack of dedicated sustainability/green energy funding.
    • Lauren Wall: requests skate park investment (refresh obstacles and add/upgrade seating/amenities) at Bacchus Marsh skate park.
    • Scott Graham (3 submissions): questions Gordon TIP allocation (why it never received implementation funding), asks what will be activated in 2026/27 for Gordon/small towns under the Visitor Economy Strategy, and seeks clarification on the Gordon Active Rec loop (including consultation and whether annual reporting will explain prior spending and community engagement).
• Impact: Aligns budget decisions with community-identified service fairness, infrastructure needs, and expectations for strategy delivery and sustainability.
• Next steps: Officers review each submission and reflect relevant matters in the 2026/27 Annual Budget consideration for the 24 June 2026 special meeting.

Confirm planned infrastructure priorities reflected in budget submissions (e.g., White Avenue Park/Playground)

• Context: Several submitters explicitly referenced planned or proposed capital works, particularly local recreation assets, and Council needed to confirm these priorities are captured in budget consideration.
• Details:
  • Submitters specifically confirmed/support the following planned infrastructure priorities:
    • White Avenue Park upgrade: raised by Chris Cathcart as “long overdue” and included in the proposed budget.
    • White Avenue Playground Renewal: raised by Tom Bloomfield, confirming funding is allocated for 2026–27 and expressing appreciation for the renewal.
  • Additional infrastructure priorities raised that require confirmation/consideration:
    • Missing footpath link on/near Margaret Drive (pedestrian safety hazard; identified as part of the 2014 hike and bike strategy).
    • Aqualink project completion: request to complete the western section to connect to the Werribee River (noted as not clearly visible in the budget).
    • Bacchus Marsh skate park upgrades: request to refresh obstacles and improve amenity/bench seating.
• Impact: Reinforces community confidence that key local projects (especially White Avenue Park/Playground) remain on track while also identifying any gaps (footpaths, Aqualink completion, skate park works) needing budget clarification.
• Next steps: During the 24 June 2026 special meeting deliberations, Council/Officers confirm which works are included, their scope/timing, and how other raised gaps will be addressed (or why they are not included).

Community Impact

• Residents (ratepayers): 2026/27 Annual Budget will be adopted after public submissions, potentially affecting the level of general rates and household cost-of-living pressures
• Waste service users: Consideration of submissions about hard waste access and subsidised waste services may change hard waste collection/drop-off rules and associated waste charges
• Residents without transport / with additional needs: Proposed changes to hard waste support (e.g., capping/priority concerns and alternative drop-off options) may alter how equitably waste services are delivered
• Pedestrians and families (local streets): Budget consideration includes addressing infrastructure gaps such as missing footpaths (e.g., Margaret Drive pedestrian link), improving safety for prams and pedestrians
• Park and recreation users (White Avenue and Bacchus Marsh): Funding responses include upgrades such as White Avenue Park/Playground renewal and potential skate park improvements, affecting local amenity and usability
• Community groups and township stakeholders (Gordon and small towns): Submissions seeking clearer delivery/activation of township and visitor economy priorities may influence what projects are funded and how they are communicated in 2026/27

Other Notable Items

• Nine written community submissions received on the Draft 2026/27 Annual Budget.
• Residents raised concerns about kerbside hard waste limits and priority allocation (500 cap).
• Requests for missing footpath links and pedestrian safety improvements (Margaret Drive).
• Questions about township delivery and communication for Gordon initiatives and priorities.
• Sustainability feedback: lack of renewable energy/environmental initiatives in the budget.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Mentions of online/digital engagement: public submissions via Council’s “Have Your Say” page (budget consultation).
• Online meeting format: “Council Chambers… & Online” (meeting held both in person and online).

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Receive and note 2025–2029 Council Plan Q3 progress report (Jan–Mar 2026).
• Receive and note outstanding 2021–2025 Council Plan actions progress report (Q3 Jan–Mar 2026).
• Receive and note outstanding 2017–2021 Council Plan actions progress report (Q3 Jan–Mar 2026).
• Authorise Planning Scheme Amendment C106moor for Ministerial approval, exhibition, and S173 preparation.
• Approve release of draft Community Grants Policy and Guidelines for three-week community consultation.
• Adopt Moorabool Community Road Safety Strategy 2025–2029.
• Opt-in to MAV Statewide Roads Panel Contract RD7214-2024 and delegate extension approvals.

Detailed Descriptions

Receive and note 2025–2029 Council Plan Q3 progress report (Jan–Mar 2026)

• Context: Council’s 2025–2029 Council Plan is delivered through quarterly performance reporting against strategic objectives and action priorities. This item presents the Q3 update for the period 1 January to 31 March 2026.
• Details:
  • Reporting period: Q3 (1 January – 31 March 2026)
  • Total actions reported for Year 1: 36
  • Status as at 31 March 2026:
    • 32 actions in progress
    • 4 actions completed
    • 31 actions “on track” (green) (including the 4 completed)
    • 0 actions requiring monitoring (yellow)
    • 5 actions “off track” (red)
  • Resolution: Council received and noted the report and its attachment (Attachment 1: “2025–2029 Council Plan Action Progress Report Qtr 3 – Jan–March 2026”).
• Impact: Provides transparency on delivery performance for the community, highlighting which priorities are progressing and where escalation/attention is needed for the 5 off-track actions.
• Next steps:
  • Progress comments and performance status will be uploaded to the online Council Performance Dashboard (noted in the report as October 2025 for dashboard upload).
  • Continued quarterly reporting through the year, with end-of-year reporting in the Annual Report.

Receive and note outstanding 2021–2025 Council Plan actions progress report (Q3 Jan–Mar 2026)

• Context: A set of actions from the 2021–2025 Council Plan were carried over because they were incomplete at the end of the plan period. Council receives quarterly updates until completion.
• Details:
  • Reporting period: Q3 (1 January – 31 March 2026)
  • Outstanding carryover: 20 strategic actions carried over from 2021–2025
  • Completion status:
    • 15 actions completed
    • 5 actions remain in progress (as at 31 March 2026)
  • Progress note: the remaining 5 actions have reached between 20% and 95% of their targets.
  • Resolution: Council received and noted the report and its attachment (Attachment 1: “2021–2025 Outstanding Council Plan Actions – Qtr 3 – Jan–March 2026”).
• Impact: Confirms governance oversight of legacy commitments and reduces risk that unfinished actions are forgotten, while keeping the community informed of progress toward completion.
• Next steps:
  • Continue quarterly reporting on the 5 remaining in-progress actions until they are completed.

Receive and note outstanding 2017–2021 Council Plan actions progress report (Q3 Jan–Mar 2026)

• Context: Ten strategic actions from the 2017–2021 Council Plan were incomplete at the end of that plan period and were carried forward for completion. This report provides the latest quarterly status.
• Details:
  • Reporting period: Q3 (1 January – 31 March 2026)
  • Outstanding carryover: 10 strategic actions
  • Completion status:
    • 9 actions completed
    • 1 action remains in progress (as at 30 June 2025 and still the subject of ongoing reporting)
  • Progress note: the remaining action has reached 96% of the target.
  • Resolution: Council received and noted the report and its attachment (Attachment 1: “2017–2021 Outstanding Council Plan Actions Qtr 3 – Jan–March 2026”).
• Impact: Ensures finalisation of older commitments and demonstrates accountability for near-complete delivery.
• Next steps:
  • Continue quarterly reporting for the single remaining in-progress action until completion.

Authorise Planning Scheme Amendment C106moor for Ministerial approval, exhibition, and S173 preparation

• Context: Planning Scheme Amendment C106moor (Ballan South West) seeks to enable future residential growth in Ballan by rezoning land and applying overlays to guide development. Ministerial authorisation is required before exhibition.
• Details:
  • Land and rezoning scope:
    • Rezoning approximately 126.5 hectares to General Residential Zone Schedule 1 (GRZ1)
    • Rezoning 2 hectares to Commercial 1 Zone (C1Z) with a schedule amendment limiting leasable floor area for office/shop uses
    • Rezoning a small VicTrack parcel to Transport Zone 1 (TRZ1)
    • Apply Development Plan Overlay Schedule 8 (DPO8)
    • Apply Environmental Audit Overlay (EAO) to potentially contaminated/unevaluated land
    • Remove Design and Development Overlay Schedule 2 (DDO2)
  • Scale of proposed development:
    • Approximately 128.5 hectares total rezoning area (as stated in the report)
    • Up to 1,255 lots
    • Up to 3,800 residents
  • Site boundaries (as described): bounded by Melbourne–Ballarat railway line (north), Geelong–Ballan Road (west), Rowett Lane (south), Denholms Road (east)
  • Shared infrastructure items (examples listed):
    • IN-02 Geelong–Ballan Rd / Old Geelong Rd / Shaws Rd (Full contribution)
    • IN-03 Geelong–Ballan Rd / Rowett Lane (Full contribution)
    • LX-01 Level crossing urbanisation at Old Geelong Road (Full contribution)
    • LX-02 Level crossing urbanisation at Cowie Road (Full contribution)
  • Council resolutions (authorisations):
    1. Apply to the Minister for Planning under Section 8A of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 for authorisation to prepare and exhibit Moorabool Planning Scheme Amendment C108Moor (as worded in the resolution) in accordance with Attachment 1.
    2. Upon authorisation, prepare and exhibit Amendment C106moor.
    3. Authorise the Executive Manager Community Planning and Development to make minor changes that do not alter the amendment’s intent.
    4. Authorise the Executive Manager to negotiate and resolve submitter issues during exhibition prior to reporting back to Council for potential Planning Panel referral/adoption.
    5. Prepare an S173 Agreement with landowners capturing delivery of developer contributions, required prior to Council adoption of the final amendment.
• Impact: Enables Ballan South West to progress to the formal public exhibition stage, supporting land supply and planned community infrastructure while ensuring developer contributions are secured via S173.
• Next steps:
  • Submit request to the Minister for Planning for authorisation.
  • If authorised: conduct public exhibition (noted as approximately 40 business days from receipt of authorisation).
  • Report back to Council after exhibition for consideration and potential Planning Panel referral for unresolved submissions.
  • Finalise and execute the S173 Agreement prior to adoption.

Approve release of draft Community Grants Policy and Guidelines for three-week community consultation

• Context: Council has updated the Community Grants Policy and program guidelines based on community/stakeholder feedback, and now seeks formal community consultation before final adoption.
• Details:
  • Consultation purpose: ensure updated policy/guidelines align with community expectations and needs.
  • Consultation duration: three (3) weeks
  • Resolution: Council approved release of:
    • Draft Community Grants Policy
    • Draft Community Grant Program Guidelines
  • Attachments noted: Draft Policy, Draft Guidelines, and Community Grants – Community Engagement Questions.
  • Key feedback themes driving the update (from the report):
    • Complexity of application process
    • Grant funding limits and matching requirements
    • Need for access to grants when needed
    • Greater alignment to Council objectives
    • Enabling Community Asset Committees (CACs) to access community grant opportunities
  • Resolution also notes: after engagement concludes, a further report will come back to Council for adoption of final documents.
• Impact: Improves fairness and accessibility of grant funding, and strengthens community influence over how Council allocates support.
• Next steps:
  • Run the 3-week consultation (June 2026 is indicated in the communications plan).
  • Officers review feedback and return to Council with updated final policy/guidelines for adoption prior to the next grant round in 2026.

Adopt Moorabool Community Road Safety Strategy 2025–2029

• Context: Council developed a Community Road Safety Strategy with TAC Road Safety Grant funding, following consultation and public exhibition. This item seeks formal adoption.
• Details:
  • Strategy name: Moorabool Community Road Safety Strategy 2025–2029
  • Funding: developed through Transport Accident Commission (TAC) Road Safety Grant Program
  • Public exhibition period for the draft: 5 February 2026 until 8 March 2026
  • Consultation highlights (from report):
    • Have Your Say portal: 521 total page views, 329 unique visitors, 7,186 registered users
    • Stakeholders: 274 aware, 84 informed, 10 engaged
    • Community interest particularly in pedestrian safety, traffic speeds, active transport, and driver behaviour
  • Resolution: Council adopted the draft strategy and requested it be made available on Council’s website.
• Impact: Provides a four-year, Safe System-aligned roadmap to reduce serious injury and fatality crashes across Moorabool, guiding prioritised projects and partnerships.
• Next steps:
  • Publish the adopted strategy on Council’s website.
  • Promote via online media channels (as noted in the communications plan).
  • Implement actions through Council planning and service delivery processes over 2025–2029.

Opt-in to MAV Statewide Roads Panel Contract RD7214-2024 and delegate extension approvals

• Context: Council can opt-in to a MAV statewide panel contract to access pre-evaluated suppliers for road rehabilitation services. This also includes delegation to extend the contract term if needed.
• Details:
  • Contract: MAV Statewide Roads Panel Contract RD7214-2024
  • Resolution outcomes:
    1. Opt-in for bitumen, asphalt, surface rehabilitation and associated materials and services
    2. Term: until the current contract expires in January 2030, with an optional five (5) year extension
    3. Delegate to the Chief Executive Officer authority to enter the optional five (5) year extensions if contract use continues to meet Council needs
    4. Authorise the CEO to execute the MAV Contract Commitment Form
  • Background procurement note:
    • MAV tender issued 20 July 2024
    • Panel recommended: 37 providers across 6 regional groupings
• Impact: Improves procurement efficiency and supports timely road maintenance works through access to panel pricing and collaborative buying benefits.
• Next steps:
  • After Council approval: complete administrative steps to join the MAV panel contract.
  • Use the MAV portal to request pricing for projects (initially focusing on lower-risk maintenance-related works).
  • If beneficial, consider and approve the optional 5-year extensions via delegated CEO authority.

Community Impact

• Ballan residents (Ballan South West precinct): Rezoning and planning controls progressed for up to ~1,255 new lots and a master-planned community of up to ~3,800 residents, including parks, a community hub, and land reserved for a future school
• Ballan residents and road users: New/expanded transport infrastructure and traffic works associated with the development (e.g., roundabouts and level crossing urbanisation at Old Geelong Rd and Cowie Rd) as developer contributions are delivered
• Ballan residents (near sensitive land): Environmental Audit Overlay requirements mean an environmental audit must be completed before further subdivision/sensitive uses proceed on potentially contaminated properties
• Moorabool community (all townships): Adoption of the Moorabool Community Road Safety Strategy 2025–2029, leading to a coordinated 4-year program targeting reduced serious injury/fatality crashes (including pedestrian safety, traffic speeds, active transport, and driver behaviour)
• Moorabool residents: Opt-in to the MAV Statewide Roads Panel Contract (RD7214-2024) enabling more efficient road rehabilitation (initially pavement patching and sealing), which may increase local road works and maintenance activity
• Community groups and volunteers (Moorabool): Release for 3-week consultation of updated Community Grants Policy and Guidelines, with simplified applications and changed funding/contribution arrangements affecting who can access grants and how much Council contributes
• Moorabool residents (local services and events): Allocation of $71,669.91 in March 2026 community grants to 11 projects, supporting programs run by sporting clubs, community groups, and community infrastructure initiatives

Other Notable Items

• Community consultation feedback themes for draft Community Grants: complex applications, prohibitive matching, access timing.
• Draft Community Grants Policy released for three-week community consultation; councillor representation considered in assessment.
• Council Plan Q3 update: 36 actions—32 in progress, 4 completed; 5 off track (red).
• Ballan South West Planning Scheme Amendment C106moor progressed to seek Minister authorisation for exhibition.
• Road safety strategy consultation results: 521 page views, 329 unique visitors; strategy adopted for 2025–2029.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Meeting livestreaming (online recording/stream of council proceedings)
• Online Council Performance Dashboard (performance reporting to be uploaded; community access mentioned)
• “Have Your Say” online portal used for community consultation (e.g., Road Safety Strategy consultation; online survey participation)
• Community consultation via online submission process (grants policy consultation referenced as including online submissions)
• Use of Council website and online media channels for publishing/adopting documents (e.g., Road Safety Strategy to be made available on Council’s website and promoted via online media)
• Use of the MAV Portal to request pricing from panel contractors (procurement via online portal)

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Place the Proposed 2026/27 Annual Budget on public exhibition for consultation.
• Set public submission deadline for budget and rates/charges composition: 4 June 2026.
• Hold Special Council meeting to consider submissions: 10 June 2026 at 6.00pm.
• Intend to adopt the 2026/27 Annual Budget at a Special Council meeting: 24 June 2026.
• Endorse proposed 2.75% rate increase and updated waste service charges for 2026/27.
• Endorse 2026/27 capital improvement program, including listed major infrastructure projects.

Detailed Descriptions

Place the Proposed 2026/27 Annual Budget on public exhibition for consultation

• Context: Council must commence the formal budget adoption process under the Local Government Act 2020, including public consultation to allow community input.
• Details:
  • Resolution (Item 7.1) moved by Cr Rod Ward, seconded by Cr John Keogh.
  • Council will place the Proposed 2026/27 Annual Budget on public exhibition in accordance with section 94 of the Local Government Act 2020.
  • The CEO is authorised to give public notice and make the budget available for public inspection.
  • The budget can be viewed on Council’s website: www.moorabool.vic.gov.au; physical copies are available on request.
• Impact: Residents and stakeholders gain access to the proposed budget and can provide feedback before Council makes a final adoption decision.
• Next steps: Public notice will be issued and the budget will be available for inspection, running through the consultation period up to 5.00pm Thursday 4 June 2026.

Set public submission deadline for budget and rates/charges composition: 4 June 2026

• Context: Consultation must include a defined period for submissions so Council can consider community feedback before finalising the budget and setting rates/charges.
• Details:
  • Submissions on the Proposed 2026/27 Annual Budget are invited until 5.00pm Thursday 4 June 2026.
  • Submissions are also invited on the composition of proposed rates and charges included in the budget until 5.00pm Thursday 4 June 2026.
  • Submissions can be made:
    • By mail to: The Chief Executive Officer, Budget Submission, Moorabool Shire Council, PO Box 18, Ballan VIC 3342
    • By email: [email protected]
    • Online: https://moorabool.engagementhub.com.au/
• Impact: Establishes a clear community engagement timeframe and ensures residents can influence how rates and charges are structured for 2026/27.
• Next steps: After the deadline, Council will receive and prepare to consider submissions at the scheduled Special Council meeting on 10 June 2026.

Hold Special Council meeting to consider submissions: 10 June 2026 at 6.00pm

• Context: Council must consider submissions made during the consultation period before deciding whether to adopt the budget (and any changes).
• Details:
  • A Special Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday 10 June 2026 at 6.00pm.
  • Location: Council Chambers, 15 Stead Street, Ballan.
  • The meeting will consider submissions received regarding:
    • The Proposed 2026/27 Annual Budget
    • The composition of proposed rates and charges
  • People who request to be heard must indicate this in their written submission and may appear personally or via a representative.
• Impact: Provides a formal opportunity for community members to have their views considered directly by Council.
• Next steps: Submissions are received up to 5.00pm 4 June 2026, then heard/considered at the 10 June 2026 Special Council meeting.

Intend to adopt the 2026/27 Annual Budget at a Special Council meeting: 24 June 2026

• Context: Following consultation and consideration of submissions, Council will finalise and adopt the budget for the 2026/27 financial year.
• Details:
  • Council resolved to notify and place on public notice its intention to adopt the budget on Wednesday 24 June 2026.
  • Adoption will occur at a Special Council meeting.
  • Time: 6.00pm.
  • Location: Council Chambers, 15 Stead Street, Ballan.
  • Adoption is subject to changes to the Proposed 2026/27 Annual Budget after considering all submissions.
• Impact: Confirms the final decision date and ensures the community knows when the budget will be locked in, reflecting consultation outcomes.
• Next steps: Public notice is issued for the 24 June 2026 adoption meeting, after submissions are considered on 10 June 2026.

Endorse proposed 2.75% rate increase and updated waste service charges for 2026/27

• Context: The budget includes rate and waste charge settings required to fund service delivery, growth, operations, and the capital improvement program.
• Details:
  • Proposed rate increase: 2.75% (aligned with the Fair Go Rates System order by the Minister for Local Government).
  • Council has not applied for a rate cap variation for 2026/27.
  • Waste service charges (as proposed for 2026/27):
    • Waste Management Service Charge: $113.00 to $144.00
    • Overall Waste Collection Charge: $253.00 to $262.00
    • State Landfill Levy: $79.00 to $82.00
    • Optional Kerbside Green Waste service: $99.00 to $103.00
  • These charges are part of the consultation on the composition of proposed rates and charges (submissions close 5.00pm 4 June 2026).
• Impact: Households and businesses will see cost changes associated with Council services, while the increases support ongoing operations and the capital works program.
• Next steps: Community feedback on rates/charges composition will be considered at 10 June 2026, with final settings determined at the 24 June 2026 budget adoption meeting.

Endorse 2026/27 capital improvement program, including listed major infrastructure projects

• Context: The 2026/27 Annual Budget includes a capital improvement program intended to balance maintenance of existing assets with new infrastructure to meet community needs.
• Details:
  • Capital improvement program funding:
    • $21.958 million for new capital works (within the 2026/27 budget).
  • Major projects proposed include:
    • Bacchus Marsh Indoor Sports Facilities, Stage 2 Aquatic Infrastructure — $2.000 million
    • Reseal Program — $1.805 million
    • Ballan–Meredith Road, Morrisons–Rip/resheet/reseal (and widen) — $1.296 million
    • Spargo Creek Road, Spargo Creek–Reconstruction (widen) — $0.886 million
    • Delivery of CCTV, Fencing, Gates and Signage — $0.750 million
    • MARC Grandstand Stadium Seating — $0.675 million
    • Glenmore Road, Mount Wallace–Rip/resheet/reseal (and widen) — $0.602 million
    • Elaine–Mount Mercer Road, Elaine–Rip/resheet/reseal — $0.536 million
    • White Avenue Recreation Reserve, Bacchus Marsh–Playground renewal — $0.414 million
  • The capital program is funded in part by the proposed 2.75% rate increase and supports “service growth and Council operations.”
• Impact: Improves local infrastructure and public facilities (roads, recreation, safety/asset protection, and aquatic sports infrastructure), supporting long-term community outcomes.
• Next steps: The capital program will be included in the budget exhibited for consultation, with any community submissions considered at 10 June 2026 and final confirmation through adoption at 24 June 2026.

Community Impact

• Ratepayers (all Shire residents): Proposed 2026/27 rate increase of 2.75% to fund council services and the capital program
• Households using waste services: Waste Management Service Charge increases from $113.00 to $144.00 and Waste Collection Charge increases from $253.00 to $262.00 (plus landfill levy and optional green waste charge increases)
• Residents near road works (Ballan–Meredith and Spargo Creek areas): Ballan–Meredith Road (Morrisons–Rip/resheet/reseal and widen) and Spargo Creek Road (reconstruction/widening) proceed as capital projects, likely affecting traffic patterns during works
• Residents near local infrastructure upgrades (Shire-wide): Reseal program and additional road works (e.g., Glenmore Road, Elaine–Mount Mercer Road) will be delivered, potentially causing temporary disruption and improved road surfaces
• Sports/recreation users (Bacchus Marsh and Ballan): Bacchus Marsh Indoor Sports Facilities Stage 2 aquatic infrastructure and White Avenue Recreation Reserve playground renewal progress, improving local amenities
• Community members attending major venues (Bacchus Marsh): MARC Grandstand Stadium seating upgrades and related works proceed, affecting access/parking during installation periods

Other Notable Items

• Community consultation opened for the 2026/27 Annual Budget, with submissions due 4 June 2026.
• Proposed rate increase set at 2.75% under the Fair Go Rates System.
• Waste service charges proposed to rise (general waste and optional green waste).
• Large 2026/27 capital works program proposed, including Bacchus Marsh aquatic Stage 2.
• Special meeting scheduled 10 June 2026 to hear budget submissions.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Online public consultation platform for budget submissions: https://moorabool.engagementhub.com.au/
• Email submission option for budget feedback: [email protected]
• Council website where the proposed budget can be viewed: www.moorabool.vic.gov.au
• Online/remote meeting attendance indicated by “Location: Council Chambers… & Online”
• IT/security-adjacent capital works: “Delivery of CCTV, Fencing, Gates and Signage” (CCTV implies surveillance/monitoring infrastructure)

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Confirmed minutes of 1 April 2026 and 15 April 2026 council meetings.
• Approved Arts and Culture Strategy review communications and consultation strategy.
• Received petition for improved Russell Street parking, Gordon; officers to respond.
• Approved Events Management Policy communications and consultation strategy for 2026.
• Received Audit and Risk Advisory Committee half-yearly report 2025/26.
• Lost motion feasibility of bereaved parent support group; Council to acknowledge advocacy role.

Detailed Descriptions

Confirmed Minutes of 1 April 2026 and 15 April 2026 Council Meetings

• Context: Council considered formal confirmation of minutes from two prior meetings to ensure governance records are accurate and approved.
• Details:
  • Resolution moved by Cr John Keogh, seconded by Cr Jarrod Bingham.
  • Minutes to be confirmed:
    • Ordinary Council Meeting – Wednesday 1 April 2026
    • Special Council Meeting – Wednesday 15 April 2026
  • Decision outcome: Carried (as recorded in the 6 May 2026 Ordinary Council Meeting minutes).
• Impact: Confirms the official record of Council deliberations and decisions from early April 2026, supporting transparency and continuity in Council governance.
• Next steps: Minutes remain the authoritative record; no further action required beyond filing/recordkeeping following confirmation.

Approved Arts and Culture Strategy Review Communications and Consultation Strategy

• Context: Council is reviewing the Arts and Culture Strategy 2021–2025, which was adopted on 4 August 2021, and needs an engagement plan to gather community and sector input.
• Details:
  • Resolution moved by Cr Moira Berry, seconded by Cr Paul Tatchell.
  • Council approved the Communications and Consultation Strategy for the review of the Arts and Culture Strategy 2021–2025.
  • Engagement timeframe: May–August 2026 (public engagement proposed between these months).
  • Engagement activities include:
    • Have Your Say platform survey (online)
    • Artist forums
    • Councillor 1:1s with officers
    • Industry stakeholder consultations
    • Meetings with Councillors and industry stakeholders
    • Location example: The Village Shopping Centre – Bacchus Marsh pop-up stand
  • Risk control noted: mitigate reputational damage if community feels input is limited (risk rating Medium).
  • Financial implication stated: officer time (no dollar figure provided).
• Impact: Provides a structured, timed engagement approach to ensure the Strategy review reflects community and sector priorities, improving trust and quality of outcomes.
• Next steps:
  • After engagement concludes, Council will receive a further report for consideration (timing not specified, but following May–August 2026 consultation).

Received Petition for Improved Russell Street Parking, Gordon; Officers to Respond

• Context: Council received a petition requesting parking and accessibility improvements on Russell Street, Gordon, citing safety and accessibility concerns for pedestrians and vulnerable residents.
• Details:
  • Petition received with 232 compliant signatures.
  • Head petitioner: Milla Place.
  • Location/area of concern: Russell Street, Gordon, particularly near the post office, pharmacy, and nearby medical services.
  • Key issues raised in the petition:
    • No formal parking spaces; vehicles park on the grassed nature strip and sometimes partially on the footpath
    • Wet weather creates muddy, uneven, slippery conditions
    • Concerns about public safety, accessibility, and pedestrian access
    • Specific concerns: vehicles parking on footpath, limited accessibility for disabled residents, traffic/safety concerns near the intersection during busy periods
  • Resolution moved by Cr Ally Munari, seconded by Cr Tom Sullivan:
    1. Council receives the petition (232 signatures).
    2. Requests Officers receive, note, and respond accordingly.
  • Decision outcome: Carried.
• Impact: Ensures community concerns are formally recorded and triggers an officer response process, potentially leading to site assessment and parking/accessibility improvements.
• Next steps:
  • Officers to prepare and deliver a response to the petition (timeline not specified in the minutes).
  • Petition indicates a likely next action of a site assessment and consideration of formal angled parking and accessibility improvements.

Approved Events Management Policy Communications and Consultation Strategy for 2026

• Context: An internal audit (by HLB Mann Judd) identified the need for an overarching Events Management Policy, and Council is preparing a draft framework for assessing and approving temporary events.
• Details:
  • Resolution moved by Cr Moira Berry, seconded by Cr Paul Tatchell.
  • Council approved the Communications and Consultation Strategy for development of the draft Events Management Policy.
  • Consultation period: May–June 2026.
  • Consultation activities include:
    • Councillor 1:1s (May 2026)
    • Meetings with event organisers
    • Stakeholder surveys and information via Have Your Say
    • Consultation with the internal events referral group
    • Community drop-in sessions (mid-May 2026):
      • Bacchus Marsh – Lerderderg Library, 21 May 2026, 4.00pm–6.00pm
      • Ballan – Ballan Library, 28 May 2026, 4.00pm–6.00pm
  • Draft policy timing: draft to be presented to Council before a four-week public exhibition period later in 2026.
  • Final adoption planned: December 2026.
• Impact: Strengthens transparency and community trust, and helps ensure the policy is informed by local organisers and residents—reducing community/environmental risk for temporary events.
• Next steps:
  • Following engagement, a further report will be provided to Council.
  • Draft policy to proceed to Council consideration, then four-week public exhibition later in 2026, with final adoption in December 2026.

Received Audit and Risk Advisory Committee Half-Yearly Report 2025/26

• Context: Under the Local Government Act 2020, Council receives biannual reporting from the Audit and Risk Advisory Committee to support governance and compliance.
• Details:
  • Resolution moved by Cr Moira Berry, seconded by Cr Ally Munari.
  • Council action: receive and note the Audit and Risk Advisory Committee Half Yearly Report 2025/26 (Attachment 1).
  • Committee review confirmation: report reviewed at the Committee meeting on 25 February 2026 and confirmed as an accurate reflection of activities.
  • Governance context:
    • Revised Audit and Risk Advisory Committee Charter adopted by Council on 6 August 2025.
    • Chairperson: Mr Peter Smith (declared chair at the Committee meeting on 19 November 2025).
  • Decision outcome: Carried.
• Impact: Reinforces good governance by ensuring Council is informed of audit/risk activities and recommendations, supporting compliance and risk management.
• Next steps:
  • No further action required beyond noting; report has been tabled and recorded for Council governance purposes.

Lost Motion Feasibility of Bereaved Parent Support Group; Council to Acknowledge Advocacy Role

• Context: Council considered a response to Notice of Motion No. 346 about whether it is feasible to establish a bereaved parent peer support group within Moorabool Shire.
• Details:
  • Report purpose: assess feasibility of a non-clinical, community-based bereaved parent peer support group, including delivery models, governance/safeguarding, risk/insurance, demand, eligibility, and potential Council facility access.
  • Key feasibility conclusion in the report:
    • Feasible only where an external specialist organisation (or appropriately governed community-led group with specialist training/supervision) is the primary delivery body.
    • Council’s role would be limited to facilitation (awareness/referral pathways, brokering connections, and venue access only if permitted).
    • The report states it does not commit Council to funding, provision of facilities, or implementation.
  • Council resolution (recommendation) outcome:
    • Moved/considered as: Notes findings and acknowledges Council’s ongoing advocacy role.
    • Voting result: LOST 3/5
    • In favour: Crs John Keogh, Sheila Freeman, Steven Venditti-Taylor
    • Against: Crs Tom Sullivan, Jarrod Bingham, Moira Berry, Ally Munari
    • Abstained: Cr Paul Tatchell
• Impact: The motion did not pass, meaning Council did not formally adopt the recommendation at that meeting; however, the report’s findings still inform Council’s understanding that delivery must be led by a specialist provider with appropriate safeguarding and insurance.
• Next steps:
  • Council to acknowledge advocacy role only if adopted through a successful resolution in future (as this recommendation was lost at this meeting).
  • Officers/administration will continue to progress any related governance/advocacy work consistent with existing Council practice (no specific timeline stated in the minutes).

Community Impact

• Gordon residents (Russell Street): Review of parking conditions near the post office/pharmacy/medical services due to unsafe muddy/slippery grass verge and vehicles parking on the grass/footpath; potential installation of formal angled parking and accessibility improvements
• Gordon township residents and visitors: Community information sheets and engagement ahead of construction of the Gordon Active Transport Loop (shared path from Gordon Recreation Reserve to Old Western Highway, including Lyndhurst Street to Paddock Creek Reserve and Main Street missing links), with works anticipated to start late 2026
• Gordon residents (wayfinding/tourism): Delivery of township entry/wayfinding signage programmed for early 2026/27 after procurement (Type B/Type C signs), improving navigation to Main Street and local destinations
• Arts and culture stakeholders and residents: May–August 2026 public engagement (surveys, artist forums, councillor/industry meetings) to review the Arts and Culture Strategy 2021–2025, influencing future arts funding priorities and cultural programs
• Event organisers and local communities (Ballan & Bacchus Marsh): Consultation on a new Events Management Policy (community drop-ins in May 2026, plus organiser/stakeholder input) that will shape how temporary events on public/private land are assessed, approved, and managed for safety and environmental risk
• Bereaved parents and families across Moorabool Shire: Council will not directly fund/deliver a bereaved parent peer support group, but will support awareness/referral pathways and (if pursued later) venue access via an external specialist provider—affecting where and how local in-person peer support may become available

Other Notable Items

• Public concerns: EV charger rollout timing; business case and Ampol permit condition noted.
• Gordon Active Transport Loop scope unclear; engagement via information sheets before end-2026 construction.
• Russell Street Gordon petition (232 signatures) highlights safety/access issues; site assessment requested.
• Arts and Culture Strategy review consultation planned May–August 2026 (survey, artist forums, councillor meetings).
• Notice of Motion 346 on bereaved parent support group feasibility lost 3/5; external specialist delivery considered.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Online/digital meeting & communications

  • Council meeting livestreamed (recording/streaming of meeting).
  • Engagement activities include Council website and online survey via the “Have Your Say” platform (Arts and Culture Strategy review; Events Management Policy consultation).
  • Consultation/promotional channels referenced: Enews, social media, Business Facebook page, business e-newsletter, targeted emails.

• Digital services/platforms for public consultation

  • Use of Have Your Say platform for community survey and feedback collection.

• EV charging / energy infrastructure (tech-adjacent public infrastructure)

  • Discussion of installing public EV chargers (via a Charge Point Operator), including a planning permit condition for an Ampol site and development of a business case for other sites.

• IT governance / risk oversight

  • Audit and Risk Advisory Committee reporting (governance and risk oversight; includes “Darley Civic and Community Hub and Online” for committee presentation/briefing).

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Do not introduce a municipal charge in the 2026/27 Budget process.
• Reconsider municipal charge only in future Revenue and Rating Strategy reviews.
• Procure green waste bins and kitchen caddies for 2027/28 mandatory service rollout.
• Fund green waste bin procurement via Landfill Rehabilitation Reserve; amortise costs over three years.
• Include subsidised waste services in the 2026/27 Draft Budget with full costings for consultation.

Detailed Descriptions

Do not introduce a municipal charge in the 2026/27 Budget process

• Context: Council investigated whether to introduce a municipal charge as part of the review of Council’s Revenue and Rating Strategy, following community consultation. The consultation outcomes indicated strong community opposition.
• Details:
  • Consultation period: 27 January to 17 February 2026
  • Proposed municipal charge under investigation: up to 20%
  • Engagement results: 3,900+ page views, 1,800+ unique visitors, 206 formal submissions
  • Highest participation areas: Bacchus Marsh, Darley, Maddingley, and Ballan
  • Key consultation themes: concerns about equity, affordability, cost-of-living pressures, and perceived redistribution of the rates burden toward lower-value residential properties
  • Council resolution (Item 7.1): Resolves to not introduce a municipal charge as part of the 2026/27 Budget process
  • Vote: Carried 6/3 (Favour: Crs Jarrod Bingham, John Keogh, Moira Berry, Rod Ward, Sheila Freeman, Steven Venditti-Taylor; Against: Crs Tom Sullivan, Ally Munari, Paul Tatchell)
• Impact: Maintains the current rating structure for 2026/27, avoiding a fixed-charge component that residents perceived as regressive and potentially increasing pressure on vulnerable households.
• Next steps: The municipal charge option may be reconsidered in future reviews of Council’s Revenue and Rating Strategy (outside the 2026/27 Budget process).

Reconsider municipal charge only in future Revenue and Rating Strategy reviews

• Context: The municipal charge investigation was linked to a broader Revenue and Rating Strategy review, but consultation feedback did not support proceeding in the immediate budget cycle.
• Details:
  • Council explicitly noted reconsideration should occur as part of future reviews of Council’s Revenue and Rating Strategy
  • The matter is therefore deferred beyond the 2026/27 Budget cycle
  • This aligns with the recommendation in the Item 7.1 report conclusion and resolution wording
• Impact: Provides community certainty that the 2026/27 Budget will not change rating mechanics via a municipal charge, while preserving the option to revisit the concept when the broader strategy is reviewed.
• Next steps: Include any future reconsideration in the timing and scope of subsequent Revenue and Rating Strategy reviews (not in the 2026/27 Draft Budget process).

Procure green waste bins and kitchen caddies for 2027/28 mandatory service rollout

• Context: The Victorian Government has mandated a universal green waste service across councils to be implemented by 2027/28, requiring Council to supply residents with appropriate infrastructure.
• Details:
  • Service commencement: 2027/28
  • Required infrastructure:
    • 240-litre green waste bins at $55 per unit
    • Kitchen caddies at $10 per unit
  • Total estimated upfront procurement cost: $428,000
  • Council resolution (Item 7.2): Approves the procurement and funding approach for the green waste bin rollout
  • Vote outcome: Carried (Mayor exercised a casting vote in favour)
• Impact: Enables Council to meet the mandatory service requirements for 2027/28, supporting diversion of organics from landfill and improving local waste outcomes.
• Next steps: Proceed with procurement under the approved approach, with the Draft Budget to include the preferred funding option subject to consultation (as noted in the report communications approach).

Fund green waste bin procurement via Landfill Rehabilitation Reserve; amortise costs over three years

• Context: Council considered two funding options for the bin rollout—paying in full in 2026/27 or amortising costs over the early years of service delivery.
• Details:
  • Funding model approved (Item 7.2): Option B – Amortisation of bin costs over three years
  • Initial funding source: Landfill Rehabilitation Reserve
  • Upfront amount to be funded: $428,000
  • Recovery mechanism: Reserve replenished through green waste service charges over the first three years of operation
  • Council resolution wording:
    • Endorse Option B
    • Approve use of the Landfill Rehabilitation Reserve to fund the initial $428,000, replenished through service charges over three years
• Impact: Reduces immediate budget pressure in 2026/27 while aligning cost recovery with when residents receive the green waste service.
• Next steps: Include the preferred funding approach in the Draft Budget for community consultation, then implement the amortisation and charge recovery approach following budget adoption.

Include subsidised waste services in the 2026/27 Draft Budget with full costings for consultation

• Context: Council previously carried a Notice of Recission relating to subsidised waste services for 2026/27, and then resolved to ensure costs are presented transparently during the Draft Budget consultation.
• Details:
  • Council resolution (Item 7.3): Include subsidised waste services in the 2026/27 Draft Budget and explicitly define costs for community consultation
  • Prior decision reference: Ordinary Meeting of Council 17 December 2025 (Notice of Recission carried)
  • Subsidised services to be included (with full costings):
    1. Hard Waste Drop-Off (Transfer Stations)
  • Up to 2 x 1m³ allocations per household annually
  • No charge at the gate
  • Estimated annual cost: $190,000 ($9.99 per service as costed)
    2. Green Waste Drop-Off (Transfer Stations)
  • No charge at the gate for one month annually
  • Estimated annual cost: $38,000 ($2.00 per service as costed)
    3. Mattress Drop-Off (Transfer Stations)
  • 50% subsidy (half price) for one month annually
  • Estimated annual cost: $28,500 ($1.76 per service as costed)
    4. Targeted Hard Waste Kerbside Collection
  • For elderly or unable residents
  • 2m³ allocation per household
  • Capped at 500 properties annually
  • Estimated annual cost: $142,500 ($8.82 per service as costed)
  • Estimated annual total (sum of listed services): $399,000
  • Council resolution vote outcome: Carried 5/4 (Favour: Crs Jarrod Bingham, John Keogh, Rod Ward, Sheila Freeman, Steven Venditti-Taylor; Against: Crs Tom Sullivan, Moira Berry, Ally Munari, Paul Tatchell)
• Impact: Provides residents with subsidised waste access while ensuring transparency—community can review both service design and the associated costs before Council makes final budget decisions.
• Next steps: Incorporate the subsidised services and costings into the 2026/27 Draft Budget, then run the community consultation process on the Draft Budget to inform final Council consideration.

Community Impact

• Ratepayers (all residents): Council will not introduce a municipal charge in the 2026/27 Budget, avoiding a fixed-rate component that residents said could increase costs for lower-value homes and vulnerable households
• Lower-value residential households & pensioners/retirees: No change to the proposed municipal-charge structure that consultation feedback indicated would be regressive and increase affordability pressure
• Households using waste services (from 2027/28): Mandatory green waste service rollout will require delivery of 240L green waste bins and kitchen caddies to applicable households
• Waste service users (from 2027/28): Bin rollout costs ($428,000) will be recovered over three years via waste service charges (amortisation model), potentially increasing waste-related charges during that period
• Residents needing waste relief (2026/27 budget process): Subsidised waste services will be included in the Draft Budget for community consultation, including free/discounted drop-offs for hard waste, green waste (1 month annually), and mattresses (50% for 1 month annually)
• Elderly or unable residents (2026/27 budget process): Targeted subsidised kerbside hard-waste collection will be proposed for eligible residents (2m³ allocation, capped at 500 properties annually)

Other Notable Items

• Community consultation results: strong opposition to a municipal charge due to equity and cost-of-living concerns.
• Green waste rollout update: $428,000 upfront bin procurement planned for 2027/28 using amortisation funding.
• Council cast vote: Mayor supported green waste bin funding approach despite technical absence of Cr Ward.
• Draft Budget next steps: subsidised waste services costings included for community feedback.
• Future consideration flagged: municipal charge may be reconsidered in later Revenue and Rating Strategy reviews.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Use of digital engagement platform: Council’s “Have Your Say” platform for community consultation on a potential municipal charge, including an online rate comparison calculator and submission via the platform (over 3,900 page views; 1,800+ unique visitors; 206 formal submissions).
• Online communications/advertising channels for consultation: Council webpage banner, Facebook, Antenno, and online information tools (FAQs/explanatory material).

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Adopt Council submission for Merrimu PSP Amendment C109moor and authorise negotiations.
• Approve Blackwood Hiking Hub and Ballan Cycling Hub feasibility engagement plan.
• Allocate $40,000 to future concept design for Gordon–Mt Egerton bike/walking track.
• Adopt Irrigation Water Allocation Policy for seasonal water trading governance.
• Approve Mount Egerton Small Township Enhancement Plan and progress war memorial detail design.
• Note Griffith Street upgrade actions; plan interim pedestrian refuge and re-engage mid-2026.

Detailed Descriptions

Adopt Council submission for Merrimu PSP Amendment C109moor and authorise negotiations

• Context: The Department of Transport and Planning – New Communities (DTP-NC) has placed Amendment C109moor (Merrimu Precinct Structure Plan, DCP and NVPP) on public consultation, requiring Council’s submission and follow-up engagement to resolve key issues before finalisation.
• Details:
  • Council meeting date: Wednesday, 1 April 2026
  • Public consultation period for DTP-NC: 6 March 2026 to 7 April 2026
  • PSP scale: approximately 1,800 direct jobs, 8,000 homes, population ~24,000
  • Council resolution (carried):
    • Adopt the submission at Appendix 2 as Council’s submission to DTP-NC, requesting changes to Amendment C109moor
    • Authorise the Executive Manager Community Planning and Development to advance negotiations with DTP-NC and other stakeholders regarding issues raised in Appendix 2 and other stakeholder submissions
    • Notes that unresolved matters may be referred to a Standing Advisory Committee (SAC), with a further Council submission prepared for any SAC hearing
• Impact: Strengthens Council’s ability to influence planning outcomes for Merrimu by formally submitting targeted changes and enabling officers to negotiate unresolved issues, reducing the risk of Council having limited input at SAC stage.
• Next steps:
  • Officers to negotiate with DTP-NC and relevant stakeholders during the post-consultation period
  • If issues remain unresolved, Council will prepare a further submission for any SAC hearing, with additional briefings to Council provided ahead of the SAC process

Approve Blackwood Hiking Hub and Ballan Cycling Hub feasibility engagement plan

• Context: Council is progressing two State-funded feasibility studies to strengthen Moorabool’s nature-based tourism and active transport opportunities, requiring structured stakeholder engagement to inform the draft studies.
• Details:
  • Council meeting date: Wednesday, 1 April 2026
  • Funding:
    • State Government (Tiny Towns Initiative): $75,000
    • Council contribution: $25,000 (from Arts and Economic Development recurrent budget)
    • Total study budget: $100,000
  • Consultant appointment:
    • Urban Enterprise (UE) appointed late December 2025
  • Engagement timing: April–May 2026
  • Key engagement sessions (as per the engagement plan):
    • Ballan Cycling Hub consultation: Ballan Library, Monday 20 April 2026, 10:00am–11:30am
    • Blackwood Hiking Hub consultation: Blackwood Hall, Monday 20 April 2026, 2:00pm–3:30pm
  • Resolution (carried):
    • Approve the Feasibility Studies Engagement Plan
    • Note that a further report will be provided after engagement concludes
• Impact: Ensures the feasibility studies reflect local needs and opportunities (businesses, community groups, tourism and peak bodies), improving the likelihood of practical, community-supported hub concepts.
• Next steps:
  • UE and Council’s Project Working Group undertake engagement in April–May 2026
  • Draft feasibility studies to be developed with further feedback before Council endorsement
  • Planned study timeline:
    • June–July 2026: Draft presented to Executive and Councillors
    • August 2026: Draft presented to an Ordinary Meeting
    • September 2026: Public exhibition
    • October 2026: Final presented to Executive and Councillors
    • November 2026: Final presented to an Ordinary Meeting

Allocate $40,000 to future concept design for Gordon–Mt Egerton bike/walking track

• Context: Council previously supported a Notice of Motion (passed 7 September 2022) to investigate a shared bike/walking track between Gordon and Mt Egerton, but further work is required to address route constraints and safety considerations.
• Details:
  • Council meeting date: Wednesday, 1 April 2026
  • Resolution (carried) on Notice of Motion No. 307:
    • Notes the response report to the Gordon–Mt Egerton Road Bike/Walking Track
    • Refers $40,000 to a future budget to undertake concept design for the proposed path
    • After concept designs are completed, a further report will be brought to Council on whether to refer the project to the long-term capital program and Council’s Advocacy document
  • Project context (from the report):
    • Approximate distance between town centres: ~6km
    • Very high-level cost estimate for the full path (for reference): $1.0M–$1.5M
    • Concept design cost identified to enable better costing: $40,000
• Impact: Moves the project from feasibility investigation into a design phase that can properly assess constraints (including verges, trees/vegetation impacts, culvert/road width constraints, and the rail crossing requirements).
• Next steps:
  • Concept design work funded via the future budget allocation of $40,000
  • Following concept design completion, Council will receive a further report on:
    • progression to the long-term capital program
    • inclusion in Council’s advocacy priorities
  • (Design work will also need to coordinate further investigation with VicTrack for any rail crossing treatment.)

Adopt Irrigation Water Allocation Policy for seasonal water trading governance

• Context: Council holds irrigation water entitlements and bore entitlements used for open space assets, and seasonal allocations vary based on climate and Southern Rural Water determinations—requiring a formal governance framework for any seasonal trading.
• Details:
  • Council meeting date: Wednesday, 1 April 2026
  • Resolution (carried):
    • Adopt the Irrigation Water Allocation Policy
  • Policy purpose:
    • Sets Council’s approach to trading irrigation allocation to manage seasonal variability while protecting long-term water resilience
  • Key governance principles:
    • Trading is temporary/seasonal only (within the current irrigation season)
    • Council will not undertake permanent transfers or leasing of water shares without formal Council approval
    • Council maintains a contingency buffer in Allocation Bank Accounts (ABAs) to protect service continuity
  • Trading process (four-step framework):
    1. Seasonal assessment (review allocations and forecast demand)
    2. Identify surplus/shortfall
    3. Risk and compliance check
    4. Trade execution via approved platforms/direct transfer, with registration in the Water Register
• Impact: Provides clear, conservative governance for water trading decisions, supporting continuity of irrigation for sporting reserves, parks and community facilities, while ensuring compliance with the Water Act 1989 and Southern Rural Water requirements.
• Next steps:
  • Policy becomes the operational governance framework for any seasonal allocation trading decisions
  • Internal seasonal assessment and compliance checks to be applied before any trade execution

Approve Mount Egerton Small Township Enhancement Plan and progress war memorial detail design

• Context: The Mount Egerton Small Township Enhancement Project (STEP) has been completed through community engagement and planning, and Council also needs to progress design for the war memorial within Open Space 216.
• Details:
  • Council meeting date: Wednesday, 1 April 2026
  • Resolution (carried):
    1. Approve the Mount Egerton Small Township Enhancement Plan to facilitate progression and completion of landscape and civil design plans
    2. Notes Elaine STEP is scheduled for development in 2026/2027, with a further report after master planning and community consultation
    3. Notes the war memorial concept plan to facilitate progression of detail design
    4. Refers items identified in each plan to future capital budgets for consideration through the annual budget process
  • War memorial location:
    • Open Space 216, at the corner of Main Road and Steetley Lane
  • Funding/implementation timing:
    • Implementation funding “nominally allocated” in the draft 2026/2027 Capital Works Budget
    • Delivery anticipated within 2026/2027
• Impact: Enables coordinated delivery of township upgrades and advances the war memorial design so construction can proceed in line with STEP works and grant-funded components, supporting community identity and remembrance.
• Next steps:
  • Progress to landscape and civil design plans for the Mount Egerton STEP
  • Progress war memorial detail design based on the approved concept plan
  • Final project implementation to follow inclusion in the 2026/2027 Capital Works Budget and subsequent annual budget processes for any deferred items

Note Griffith Street upgrade actions; plan interim pedestrian refuge and re-engage mid-2026

• Context: Council continues to progress the Griffith Street corridor works in Bacchus Marsh, including grant-funded shared user paths and interim pedestrian safety measures while the longer-term duplication components are being reviewed and funding is pursued.
• Details:
  • Council meeting date: Wednesday, 1 April 2026
  • Resolution (carried) on Notice of Motion No. 345:
    • Notes actions taken and future actions proposed to improve Griffith Street for all road users
  • Current and planned works (as stated in the report):
    • New bus stop completed: February 2023 (north side near Providence Aged Care facility)
    • Shared user paths:
      • North side SUP approved for award on 4 February 2026
      • South side SUP: pre-planning underway to commence late 2026
    • Design review for duplication:
      • Expected to be finalised by 30 June 2026 (due to DTP intersection design changes at Grant Street/Station Street/Griffith Street)
    • Interim pedestrian safety:
      • Protected pedestrian refuge island planned near the Providence Aged Care facility
      • Planned completion in 2025–2026
    • Community re-engagement:
      • Re-engage with the community mid-2026 to reconfirm and inform of:
        • intersection changes
        • service road improvements
        • pedestrian crossing points
        • landscaping proposal
• Impact: Improves pedestrian safety in the short term while maintaining momentum on the larger Griffith Street upgrade, reducing risk to vulnerable road users and sustaining community confidence through planned consultation.
• Next steps:
  • Install the interim protected pedestrian refuge island by mid/within 2025–2026
  • Finalise detailed construction drawings and landscape plans by mid-2026, including community re-engagement
  • Continue advocacy and pursue grant funding for the remaining duplication components (full completion dependent on external funding)

Community Impact

• Merrimu precinct residents (future Bacchus Marsh growth area): Planning scheme amendment supports development of ~8,000 homes and ~24,000 residents, with new schools, community centres, recreation facilities, sports reserves and town centres
• Drivers and nearby households (Merrimu area): New/updated transport planning and road upgrade land reservations (including road/intersection upgrades and potential external network works) may change access, increase traffic during construction, and require additional land take at key intersections
• Active transport users and pedestrians (Gordon–Mt Egerton): $40,000 concept design funding for a potential shared bike/walking path may lead to future trail construction, with safety, rail-crossing and environmental constraints needing resolution
• Ballan and Blackwood residents/visitors: April–May 2026 stakeholder engagement for feasibility studies on a Blackwood Hiking Hub and Ballan Cycling Hub, potentially leading to new tourism/active-transport infrastructure by late 2026
• Mount Egerton residents: Adoption of the Small Township Enhancement Plan advances 2026/27 landscape and civil works, including footpath upgrades and progression of the War Memorial design for Open Space 216 (Main Road/Steetley Lane)
• Bacchus Marsh residents near Providence Aged Care and Griffith Street corridor: Interim pedestrian safety works (protected refuge island and related line-marking) planned by mid-2026, plus re-engagement and further shared user path works while Council continues advocating for full road duplication funding

Other Notable Items

• Merrimu PSP submission: council raised unresolved traffic, affordable housing, conservation, and DCP cost-sheet issues.
• Community engagement planned (Apr–May 2026) for Blackwood Hiking Hub and Ballan Cycling Hub feasibility studies.
• $40,000 concept design to progress Gordon–Mt Egerton shared path after safety, land, and rail crossing constraints.
• Mount Egerton STEP outcomes noted; war memorial concept advanced toward detailed design and 2026/27 delivery.
• Griffith Street upgrade: interim pedestrian refuge and shared paths progressing; duplication funding still uncertain.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Meeting livestreaming (online recording of Council proceedings).
• Public consultation and submissions via online platforms:
  • Engage Victoria website and Council “Have Your Say” page (Merrimu PSP amendment consultation).
  • “Have Your Say” platform and Council website/social media for hub feasibility study engagement.
  • “Have your Say” digital platform for Mount Egerton Small Township Enhancement Plan consultation.
• Online information sessions and online consultations (e.g., hub feasibility studies; Merrimu PSP consultation includes online sessions).
• Water trading executed via approved platforms/direct transfer with registration in the Water Register (Irrigation Water Allocation Policy).

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Receive and note petition to save the Aquaduct Walking Track; request officer response.
• Receive and note petition to purchase 17–19 Martin Street Blackwood for community open space.
• Request Minister establish independent panel for Planning Scheme Amendment C115moor submissions.
• Adopt Planning Scheme Amendment C103moor (Hopetoun Park North) and submit to Minister for approval.
• Approve continued Swimming Pool and Spa Safety Barrier Inspection Service.
• Endorse concept design and proceed with design for Bacchus Marsh Indoor Aquatic Facility ($50M budget).

Detailed Descriptions

Receive and note petition to save the Aquaduct Walking Track; request officer response

• Context: Council received a community petition advocating for the preservation of the disused aqueduct land as a public walking/bike track, citing historical value and habitat benefits.
• Details:
  • Petition head petitioner: Rose De La Cruz (on behalf of The Moorabool Environment Group)
  • Number of signatures: 69
  • Petition subject: Old disused aqueduct running opposite Crossroads through to the Western Highway
  • Land ownership/risk stated in petition: Barwon Water land “at risk of being sold” to a housing developer
  • Council action (resolution carried on 4 March 2026):
    • Receives the petition containing 69 signatures
    • Requests Officers receive and note the petition and respond accordingly
• Impact: Formally records community concern and creates a requirement for Council officers to acknowledge the petition and provide an appropriate response, supporting community-led advocacy for public access and heritage/nature outcomes.
• Next steps: Officers to receive, note, and respond to the petition (response to be prepared following internal review and any relevant stakeholder/landowner consultation).

Receive and note petition to purchase 17–19 Martin Street Blackwood for community open space

• Context: Council received a petition urging purchase of a vacant central Blackwood block to secure long-term community open space.
• Details:
  • Petition head petitioners: Jinny Coyle and Brendan Hehir
  • Number of signatures: 18
  • Property: 17–19 Martin Street, Blackwood
  • Petition purpose: Purchase the empty block for open space for Blackwood community use
  • Petition rationale (as stated): Land has been used by the community for events for ~10 years (due to owner generosity), is currently offered for private sale, and is described as a “once-only opportunity” to retain green space in the township.
  • Council action (resolution carried on 4 March 2026):
    • Receives the petition containing 18 signatures
    • Requests Officers receive and note the petition and respond accordingly
• Impact: Ensures Council records the community’s request and initiates an officer response process regarding feasibility, procurement options, and potential next actions for the site’s future use.
• Next steps: Officers to receive, note, and respond to the petition, including considering options for purchase and/or alternative arrangements for open space provision.

Request Minister establish independent panel for Planning Scheme Amendment C115moor submissions

• Context: Council is progressing Moorabool Planning Scheme Amendment C115moor (Moorabool Retail Strategy) after public exhibition, with multiple submissions received and unresolved issues requiring an independent hearing process.
• Details:
  • Amendment: C115moor – Retail Strategy
  • Public exhibition period: 24 October 2025 to 30 November 2025
  • Number of submissions received: 11
  • Ministerial authorisation: Conditional authorisation provided on 8 August 2025
  • Council action (resolution carried on 4 March 2026):
    • Requests the Minister for Planning to establish an independent planning panel to consider all submissions under section 22 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987
    • Authorises the Executive Manager Community Planning & Development to:
      • Continue liaising with submitters to seek resolution prior to/during the panel process
      • Consider any late submissions and refer them to the panel
• Impact: Provides a formal, independent mechanism to test and assess planning impacts and submission concerns (e.g., activity centre hierarchy, site-specific requests, transport/heritage/traffic impacts), improving procedural robustness and public confidence.
• Next steps: Minister to appoint the independent panel; Council/Officers to continue submitter liaison and handle late submissions; panel hearing and report to return the matter to Council for decision on adoption/changes/abandonment.

Adopt Planning Scheme Amendment C103moor (Hopetoun Park North) and submit to Minister for approval

• Context: Council considered the Planning Panel’s report for C103moor (Hopetoun Park North) following exhibition and a panel hearing, and is now required to decide whether to adopt the amendment and seek Ministerial approval.
• Details:
  • Amendment: C103moor – Hopetoun Park North
  • Land area: 62 hectares
  • Rezoning: Farming Zone to Neighbourhood Residential Zone Schedule 8 (NRZ8)
  • Proposed capacity: approximately 400 lots
  • Panel process:
    • Council resolved to refer submissions to a panel on 2 July 2025
    • Directions hearing: 4 August 2025 (online)
    • Panel hearing: 24 September to 3 October 2025 (Moorabool Shire Council office, Darley)
    • Panel report received: 14 November 2025
    • Corrections report issued: 10 February 2026
  • Submissions: 32 submissions received
  • Council action (resolution carried on 4 March 2026):
    1. Accepts in part the Planning Panel recommendations under section 27
    2. Adopts the amendment under section 29, with changes outlined in the report/attachments
    3. Submits the adopted amendment to the Minister for Planning for approval under section 31
  • Key change noted in the report: infrastructure delivery trigger for the Hopetoun Park Road / Old Western Highway intersection recommended to shift to the creation of the 300th lot (instead of later trigger), maintaining flexibility through agreement provisions.
• Impact: Enables delivery of planned growth and associated community/open space infrastructure for Hopetoun Park North while reflecting panel recommendations and addressing submission concerns through the formal statutory process.
• Next steps: Council submits the adopted amendment package to the Minister; Ministerial approval process follows, after which Gazette notice/implementation steps occur.

Approve continued Swimming Pool and Spa Safety Barrier Inspection Service

• Context: Council previously approved a Council-delivered inspection service to address accessibility issues (particularly for rural property owners) and improve safety barrier compliance.
• Details:
  • Original approval: 4 September 2024 Ordinary Council Meeting (commencement of service; review required)
  • Review period covered in report: 2024–25 and 2025–26 periods
  • Compliance outcomes highlighted:
    • Outstanding compliance certificates reduced from 257 to 59
    • Service uptake since 1 July 2025 to 27 January 2026:
      • 23 inspections completed (one scheduled)
      • 5 re-inspections completed (three scheduled)
      • 19 Certificates of Compliance issued
      • 1 building enforcement case issued for non-compliant barrier
  • Fees referenced:
    • Initial inspection: $250
    • Reinspection: $100
    • Modest CPI-aligned fee adjustment suggested for next budget cycle (not part of the immediate resolution)
  • Council action (resolution carried on 4 March 2026):
    • Notes findings of the review
    • Approves continued offering of the Swimming Pool and Spa Safety Barrier Compliance Inspection Service
• Impact: Improves pool/spa barrier compliance and reduces drowning risk by providing an accessible, Council-run inspection option where private inspectors may be difficult to source.
• Next steps: Continue service delivery immediately; communications to property owners via Council channels (March 2026 onwards) and consider CPI-aligned fee adjustment during the next budget cycle.

Endorse concept design and proceed with design for Bacchus Marsh Indoor Aquatic Facility ($50M budget)

• Context: Council is advancing the Indoor Aquatic Facility project in Bacchus Marsh, following secured funding commitments and completion of further concept-level work by architects.
• Details:
  • Project location: Taverner Street, Maddingley site, co-located with MARC Stadium (as per Bacchus Marsh Sports Precinct Master Plan 2020)
  • Funding model (total project cost): $50 million
    • Council: $15M (from Council loans per Long Term Financial Plan)
    • Victorian Government: $10M
    • Federal Government: $25M (Labour Government commitment after May 2025 federal election)
  • Additional funding timeline:
    • Federal invitation to apply: September 2025
    • Application submitted: November 2025
  • Design progression:
    • Architects: Peddle Thorp Architects (continuation approved)
    • Design cost estimate: ~$1.28M (included within the overall $50M budget)
  • Council action (resolution carried on 4 March 2026):
    1. Receives the proposed concept layout
    2. Approves Officers to proceed with design generally in accordance with the concept layout
    3. Notes concept design cost estimate is within $50M
    4. Approves continuation of Peddle Thorp Architects for required further design (design costs forming part of overall project budget)
• Impact: Moves the project from concept to detailed design, supporting delivery readiness for a major community health and recreation asset and maintaining momentum with funding partners.
• Next steps: Proceed with further design development (with updated costings); subsequent Council reporting is expected once draft/further design and cost estimates are available for construction readiness and final approvals.

Community Impact

• Rural households in Gordon, Mount Egerton, Myrniong, Greendale, Dales Creek and Blackwood: Feasibility work for expanding kerbside green waste (FOGO-style) collection, with likely opt-in rollout based on survey results and collection logistics
• Bacchus Marsh and Ballan residents: Planning Scheme Amendment C115moor progresses to an independent Planning Panel, potentially changing retail/activity-centre planning rules and future development locations over the next 10 years
• Hopetoun Park (Bacchus Marsh) residents and nearby landowners: Planning Scheme Amendment C103moor adopted (with changes), enabling rezoning for ~400 lots and adding community/open-space infrastructure—likely increasing local traffic, housing supply, and demand on services
• Hopetoun Park Road / Old Western Highway area: Intersection upgrade delivery trigger adjusted (to the 300th lot) as part of Amendment C103moor, affecting when road safety works are required during development
• All pool and spa owners across the shire (especially rural residents): Council continues a Swimming Pool and Spa Safety Barrier Inspection Service, improving access to inspections and reducing outstanding compliance barriers (with Council inspection fees continuing)
• Bacchus Marsh residents: Indoor aquatic facility concept design endorsed and design progressed (Taverner Street/Maddingley site), advancing a major community recreation project funded by state/federal grants plus Council loans

Other Notable Items

• Petition received: “Save Our Aquaduct Walking Track” (69 signatures) from Moorabool Environment Group.
• Petition received: Council purchase 17–19 Martin Street Blackwood for community open space (18 signatures).
• Retail Strategy Amendment C115moor progressed to independent planning panel due to competing submissions.
• Hopetoun Park North Amendment C103moor adopted with panel-recommended changes, including updated infrastructure triggers.
• Indoor Aquatic Facility concept design endorsed; design to continue after $25M federal commitment.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Online/digital meeting delivery
  Council meeting is livestreamed (“In accordance with Moorabool Shire Council’s Governance Rules, the meeting is livestreamed.”).
• Social media / digital communications policy
  Councillor Social Media Policy update for adoption; policy to guide councillors’ use of social media and reduce governance risks.
• Online community engagement platforms
  Planning/consultation materials available on Council’s “Have Your Say” website and Council’s online community engagement portal (referenced in the Elaine Recreation Reserve Master Plan consultation).
• Digital/online planning process
  Planning Panel Directions Hearing held by video (Amendment C103moor).
• Use of council social media channels
  Planning exhibition notifications include posts on Council’s Facebook page.
• IT/Infrastructure (renewables link)
  Financial report references contributions for the “Western Renewables Link” (digital/IT not explicit, but a technology-related infrastructure project is referenced).

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Approve Procurement Australia contract PA 2712-0652 for recruitment services.
• Adopt West Moorabool Heritage Study Stage 2A and Planning Scheme Amendment C085moor.
• Endorse advocacy prospectus “Advocacy Projects 2026 and Beyond”.
• Note Melbourne Water actions for Ballan flooding (Lay Court, Walsh Street, Ingliston Road).
• Endorse draft Community Road Safety Strategy for 28-day public exhibition.
• Request feasibility reports for bereaved parent support group, intercultural advisory committee, and EV charging stations.

Detailed Descriptions

Approve Procurement Australia contract PA 2712-0652 for recruitment services

• Context: Council’s existing Procurement Australia recruitment contract (PA 2312-0618) has been in place since January 2021 and is expiring on 31 December 2025. Council is seeking approval to continue recruitment support via the next Procurement Australia contract.
• Details:
  • Contract: Procurement Australia PA 2712-0652 (Temporary and Permanent Recruitment Services)
  • Duration: 3 years, plus two 1-year extension options; final expiry 31 December 2030
  • Contractors to be used under the contract (9 contractors total: 7 existing + 2 new):
    • Public Sector People
    • G-Force Employment and Recruitment
    • Hays Specialist Recruitment (Australia)
    • Horner Recruitment Systems (T/A trading as Horner Recruitment)
    • McArthur (Vic) Pty Ltd
    • Michael Page International (Australia)
    • Randstad Pty Ltd
    • Hoban Recruitment (new)
    • Osborne Richardson Australia (new)
  • Rationale for adding new suppliers:
    • Hoban Recruitment: operational risk coverage and immediate staffing for the School Crossing Supervisor Program, including access to locally available trained supervisors.
    • Osborne Richardson Australia: sector-specific recruitment capability for roles such as Environmental Health Officers, Public Health & Safety, Compliance and Regulatory, and Planning/Building/Asset Management professionals.
  • Financial approach: contractor usage is intended to be offset by salary savings from short-term vacancies; fee margins vary by supplier (e.g., Public Sector People permanent executive 15.75%, public sector people temporary all other 18.88%; Osborne Richardson temporary all other 13.00%).
• Impact: Ensures continuity of staffing and recruitment capability for temporary backfills and permanent recruitment campaigns, supporting service continuity and compliance while maintaining competitive schedule-of-rates pricing.
• Next steps:
  • CEO is authorised to appoint additional contractors under PA 2712-0652 where best value is identified and to sign relevant appointment documents.
  • Transition from the expiring arrangement to PA 2712-0652 effective after 31 December 2025.

Adopt West Moorabool Heritage Study Stage 2A and Planning Scheme Amendment C085moor

• Context: Council has progressed Moorabool Planning Scheme Amendment C085moor following public exhibition and an independent planning panel process. The amendment implements the West Moorabool Heritage Study (WMHS) Stage 2A Review.
• Details:
  • Amendment: Moorabool Planning Scheme Amendment C085moor
  • Heritage study adoption: West Moorabool Heritage Study Stage 2A Review (updated November 2025)
  • Scope of heritage controls:
    • Apply Heritage Overlay to 106 individual places and 7 heritage precincts across:
      • Ballan, Blackwood, Bungaree, Gordon, Lal Lal, Millbrook, Mount Egerton, Wallace
    • Total affected: 113 places of cultural significance (106 individual + 7 precincts)
    • Remove Heritage Overlay from 3 individual heritage places to be included in new precincts
  • Exhibition and submissions:
    • Public exhibition: 13 March 2025 to 30 April 2025
    • Submissions received: 12 during exhibition + 1 late from a government agency (13 total)
    • Four submissions opposed overlay on specific properties; others sought corrections/updates to Statements of Significance.
  • Panel process:
    • Directions hearing: 11 August 2025 (online)
    • Panel hearing: 22 September 2025 (Council chambers, Ballan)
    • Panel report received: 20 October 2025
  • Panel-recommended changes incorporated (examples):
    • Correct Steiglitz Street precinct citation/Statement of Significance street numbers (93–97 to 91–95)
    • Remove 49 Edols Street (HO215) from the amendment
    • Update St John’s Anglican Church, 56 Simpson Street, Ballan (HO252) to include bell/bell tower historical value and apply outbuilding controls
    • Amend 179 Donnellans Road, Millbrook (HO307) controls (internal alterations, external paint, tree controls)
    • Amend 52 Sullivans Road, Millbrook (HO310) Statement of Significance to include satellite imagery for heritage trees
  • Statutory steps:
    • Council accepts panel recommendations under Section 27 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987
    • Council adopts amendment under Section 29
    • Submission for Ministerial approval under Section 31
• Impact: Provides formal planning protections for significant heritage places/precincts across the western part of the Shire, improving certainty for landowners and preserving heritage for future generations.
• Next steps:
  • Council will submit the adopted C085moor amendment (with prescribed information) to the Minister for Planning for approval.
  • The updated heritage study will be used to ensure consistency with the final amendment documentation.

Endorse advocacy prospectus “Advocacy Projects 2026 and Beyond”

• Context: Council is updating its advocacy agenda to guide how it promotes priorities to other levels of government and key stakeholders, particularly ahead of the Victorian state election. The prospectus is based on Councillor workshop prioritisation.
• Details:
  • Endorsement: advocacy prospectus “Advocacy Projects 2026 and Beyond”
  • Basis: list of advocacy projects/initiatives identified by Councillors and prioritised at a Councillor workshop on 4 October 2025
  • Election timing: prospectus used to support advocacy communications in the lead-up to the Victorian state election in November 2026
  • Governance note: prospectus remains a “live” document and may be updated as projects are funded and as strategies/plans evolve.
  • Council resolution: endorsement approved (including noting that projects in adopted strategies/plans may be leveraged for advocacy where required).
• Impact: Strengthens Council’s coordinated advocacy positioning and improves the likelihood of securing support and funding for community priorities.
• Next steps:
  • Prospectus and associated materials to be finalised and then placed on Council’s website and distributed to stakeholders in February 2026.

Note Melbourne Water actions for Ballan flooding (Lay Court, Walsh Street, Ingliston Road)

• Context: Council received community concerns about ongoing flooding in the Lay Court, Walsh Street and Ingliston Road area of Ballan and requested updates from Melbourne Water. Council is now noting Melbourne Water’s actions and future measures.
• Details:
  • Council request sent to Melbourne Water: 12 June 2025 (requesting actions taken, future measures, and a community forum)
  • Melbourne Water response provided: 29 September 2025
  • Key operational position:
    • The drainage system is a legacy network not designed to current standards and cannot manage larger flood events.
    • The area is covered by Land Subject to Inundation Overlay (LSIO) and Special Building Overlay (SBO) in the planning scheme.
  • Actions already undertaken:
    • Routine maintenance desilting works on the Lay Court drain
    • Vegetation removal from the main channel of the Lay Court drain to prevent flow obstruction
    • Development planning permit conditions to mitigate downstream flood impacts
  • Future actions:
    • Ongoing inspection regime and scheduled maintenance program
    • Growth management to the south of the rail line via development conditions so it does not add additional pressure on existing drainage assets
  • Community engagement:
    • Melbourne Water distributed an information pack to households
    • Established a dedicated “Let’s Talk” webpage via QR code
    • Survey feedback collected:
      • 12 visits registered up to 18 December 2025
      • “Let’s Talk” page went live in early November 2025
• Impact: Improves community understanding of drainage limitations and ongoing mitigation efforts, while setting expectations for how flooding risk will be managed in the context of legacy infrastructure.
• Next steps:
  • Council will continue to monitor resident concerns and rely on Melbourne Water’s inspection/maintenance and development-conditioning approach.
  • Further community updates would be expected through Melbourne Water’s ongoing engagement channels.

Endorse draft Community Road Safety Strategy for 28-day public exhibition

• Context: Moorabool Shire has been funded to develop a new Community Road Safety Strategy through the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) Local Government Grant Program. The current strategy (2020–2024) is due for renewal.
• Details:
  • Draft strategy: Moorabool Shire Council Community Road Safety Strategy 2025–2029
  • Funding: developed under TAC Local Government Grant Program
  • Safe System alignment: Safe Roads, Safe Speeds, Safe People, Safe Vehicles
  • Public exhibition endorsement:
    • Period: 28 days
    • Consultation method: online engagement via Council’s “Have Your Say” page
    • Draft copies and feedback forms available at Council offices
  • Council resolution:
    • Endorsed in principle for public exhibition for 28 days
    • Requested a further report after the exhibition period
• Impact: Enables community and stakeholder input into a structured four-year action plan to reduce serious injury and fatality crashes, improving road safety outcomes across the Shire.
• Next steps:
  • Launch public exhibition for 28 days (exact dates to be set/confirmed by officers).
  • Officers to return to Council with a report after the exhibition period with outcomes and recommended finalisation.

Request feasibility reports for bereaved parent support group, intercultural advisory committee, and EV charging stations

• Context: Three separate Notices of Motion were carried to investigate feasibility options before any future funding or delivery decisions. Each request is for an officer report covering delivery models, governance, and costs/partnerships.
• Details:
  • Bereaved parent support group (Notice of Motion No. 346; carried 6/3)
    • Motion requires a report on feasibility of establishing a non-clinical, community-based peer support program
    • Report must consider (not limited to):
      • Delivery models (including integration with Maternal & Child Health and Enhanced Maternal & Child Health Services)
      • Partnerships with relevant specialist not-for-profit organisations
      • Governance, safeguarding, risk management and insurance
      • Demand and eligibility considerations
      • Access to an appropriate Council facility at no cost (subject to availability and policy)
      • External grant opportunities (including packs/resources and peer support initiatives for bereaved fathers)
    • Motion explicitly states it does not commit Council to funding/facilities/implementation
  • Intercultural Advisory Committee (Notice of Motion No. 348; carried 5/4)
    • Motion requires a report investigating feasibility of establishing an Intercultural Advisory Committee to provide support and advice on cultural and interfaith issues
    • Report to be presented to Council at the earliest possible convenience
  • Electric vehicle charging stations (Notice of Motion No. 351; carried 6/3)
    • Motion requires a report outlining a business case to investigate feasibility, costs, delivery models, and potential partnerships for installing EV charging stations in strategic locations within Moorabool Shire
• Impact: Builds evidence-based pathways for community wellbeing, inclusion, and future transport infrastructure—while ensuring Council does not commit resources until feasibility and costings are assessed.
• Next steps:
  • Officers to prepare and bring back feasibility/business case reports to Council (timing to be determined by the relevant departments, with the intercultural committee report requested at the earliest possible convenience).

Community Impact

• Ballan residents (Lay Court, Walsh Street, Ingliston Road): Melbourne Water will continue routine drainage maintenance (desilting/vegetation removal) and monitoring, with community updates via its “Let’s Talk” feedback page
• Moorabool residents (planning affected areas): Planning Scheme Amendment C085moor will apply a Heritage Overlay to 106 places and 7 heritage precincts, which may trigger additional planning permit requirements and heritage considerations for works
• Ballan heritage property owners (St John’s Anglican Church, 56 Simpson Street): Updated heritage controls and boundary/citation changes will affect what alterations are permitted and how heritage features (including bell/bell tower) are managed
• All Moorabool road users: Draft Community Road Safety Strategy will go to 28 days of public exhibition, shaping future road safety actions intended to reduce serious injury/fatality crashes
• Moorabool residents (community advocacy): Council endorsement of an updated advocacy prospectus will guide what infrastructure/services projects Council prioritises for advocacy ahead of the November 2026 state election
• Moorabool residents (employment services): Council’s recruitment services contract will continue using approved recruitment providers (including new suppliers), supporting faster staffing backfills that can affect service continuity when vacancies occur

Other Notable Items

• Flooding concerns in Lay Court, Walsh Street, and Ingliston Road; Melbourne Water outlined legacy drainage limitations.
• Draft Moorabool Community Road Safety Strategy to go on 28-day public exhibition; report back after consultation.
• Advocacy prospectus “Advocacy Projects 2026 and Beyond” endorsed for election-focused promotion.
• Council Plan updates: 2017–2021 outstanding actions reduced to two in progress; 2021–2025 has six in progress.
• Notices of Motion carried: bereaved parent support group feasibility, intercultural advisory committee feasibility, EV charging business case.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Meeting livestreaming (online recording/stream of Council proceedings)
• Online Council Performance Dashboard (Council Plan progress to be uploaded; community access)
• Online public engagement platform: “Have Your Say” page for community survey/feedback (Road Safety Strategy public exhibition)
• Website-based community consultation: Melbourne Water “Let’s Talk” page accessed via QR code for flooding feedback
• Digital/online planning process elements: directions hearing held online (Planning Panel for Planning Scheme Amendment C085moor)
• IT/enterprise system reference: contractor induction via “ELMO” (onboarding/training platform)
• Procurement/contracting for recruitment services (Procurement Australia contract for temporary/permanent recruitment services)

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Adopt Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029 and submit to DEECA.
• Adopt Planning Scheme Amendment C108moor (Ballan Precinct 5) and seek Minister approval.
• Adopt Maddingley Planning Study (Oct 2025) and seek authorisation for Amendment C119moor.
• Endorse community engagement on introducing a Municipal Charge (3 weeks).
• Write to Victorian and Australian governments seeking bipartisan solution for Bacchus Marsh traffic.
• Lodge federal submission to inquiry on local government funding sustainability by 3 Feb 2026.

Detailed Descriptions

Adopt Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029 and submit to DEECA

• Context: Under Section 68A of the Domestic Animals Act 1994, Moorabool Shire must prepare a Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) every four years and submit it to DEECA. Council’s previous DAMP was adopted in 2021, with an internal Animal Management Audit (2025) identifying improvements.
• Details:
  • Council meeting: Ordinary Council Meeting, Wednesday 17 December 2025
  • Resolution: Adopt DAMP 2026–2029 and submit the adopted plan to DEECA
  • Community consultation period: 3 October to 31 October 2025 (Have Your Say)
  • Engagement: 4,031 text messages to registered pet owners
  • Submissions received: 70 (all via Have Your Say)
  • Key changes from consultation:
    • Added an action to review current cat curfew hours in 2026
    • Minor formatting/wording improvements only otherwise
  • Financial implications: actions delivered within existing operational budgets (no new funding required)
• Impact: Provides a measurable, four-year framework for responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, enforcement and education across Moorabool, and ensures statutory compliance with Victorian requirements.
• Next steps:
  • Council officers will finalise administrative submission following adoption.
  • The plan will be submitted to DEECA (Secretary) in accordance with the Domestic Animals Act 1994.
  • Ongoing monitoring/reporting will occur through annual review and inclusion in Council’s Annual Report.

Adopt Planning Scheme Amendment C108moor (Ballan Precinct 5) and seek Minister approval

• Context: Moorabool Planning Scheme Amendment C108moor is proponent-led and seeks to enable a master planned residential growth area in Ballan Precinct 5. The amendment has progressed through authorisation and public exhibition, followed by an independent planning panel process.
• Details:
  • Council meeting: Wednesday 17 December 2025
  • Minister authorisation to prepare/exhibit: granted 5 August 2024
  • Public exhibition: 24 January to 3 March 2025
  • Submissions received: 65 (with earlier reporting also noting 68 submissions in the exhibition section of the report)
  • Planning panel:
    • Directions hearing: 4 June 2025 (video)
    • Hearing: 23 to 31 July 2025 at Moorabool Shire Council office, Darley
    • Panel report received: 10 September 2025
  • Amendment scope:
    • Rezones 98.5 hectares from Rural Living Zone to Neighbourhood Residential Zone
    • Supports approximately 930 lots and up to 2,800 residents
    • Applies DPO9 (Development Plan Overlay Schedule 9), VPO, and EAO to specified areas; removes DDO2; retains DDO3, ESO1/ESO2, and LSIO
  • Panel-recommended updates included:
    • Section 173 Agreement for intersection upgrades (Geelong–Ballan Road / Old Melbourne Road) with Department of Transport and Planning
    • Improved environmental outcomes (e.g., wildlife sensitive lighting and platypus surveys)
    • Minor concept plan boundary adjustments (including alignment outside Melbourne Water Werribee River offset)
  • Resolution actions:
    • Accept panel recommendations
    • Adopt Amendment C108moor
    • Submit adopted amendment to the Minister for Planning for approval
• Impact: Unlocks additional housing supply in Ballan, provides a structured framework for subdivision and infrastructure delivery (including shared infrastructure via Section 173), and supports planning certainty following the panel process.
• Next steps:
  • Submit the adopted amendment and prescribed information to the Minister for Planning for approval under the Planning and Environment Act 1987.
  • If approved, the amendment will proceed to implementation through subsequent planning permit processes under the new controls.

Adopt Maddingley Planning Study (Oct 2025) and seek authorisation for Amendment C119moor

• Context: The Maddingley Planning Study (October 2025) provides strategic direction for land use change south of Bacchus Marsh, including the state-significant Maddingley Waste and Resource Recovery Hub. Council must adopt the study and seek Minister authorisation to progress the first phase statutory changes via Amendment C119moor.
• Details:
  • Council meeting: Wednesday 17 December 2025
  • Resolution outcomes:
    1. Adopt the Maddingley Planning Study (October 2025)
    2. Seek authorisation from the Minister for Planning to prepare Planning Scheme Amendment C119moor
    3. After authorisation: prepare and exhibit Amendment C119moor under the Planning and Environment Act 1987
    4. Authorise the Executive Manager Community Planning and Development to make minor changes that do not alter the amendment intent
    5. Authorise liaising/resolving issues raised during exhibition prior to reporting back to Council
  • Study consultation history (background):
    • Draft study consultation: 3 May to 1 July 2022
    • Submissions received then: 17 written submissions
  • Implementation approach:
    • Three-phase planning scheme amendment approach across decades
    • C119moor = Phase 1 (introduces strategic guidance/policy certainty to support ongoing use of the area for waste/resource recovery and mining and transition of surrounding land)
  • Amendment C119moor planning scheme changes (Phase 1):
    • Introduce Clause 17.03-2L-02: Maddingley Framework Plan
    • Update strategic clauses including:
      • 02.03-1 (Strategic directions – Bacchus Marsh)
      • 02.03-7 (Strategic directions – Economic development)
      • 19.03-3L-02 (Integrated Water Management)
      • 72.08 (Background documents to refer to the Maddingley Planning Study, Oct 2025)
• Impact: Establishes a statutory framework to guide compatible land uses around the Maddingley hub and provides a pathway for future rezoning/overlays while managing environmental, transport and buffer considerations.
• Next steps:
  • Seek Minister authorisation for C119moor.
  • Upon authorisation, exhibit the amendment (statutory exhibition period; noted as approximately 40 business days from receipt of authorisation).
  • Report back to Council following exhibition to consider submissions (and potentially refer unresolved submissions to an independent planning panel).

Endorse community engagement on introducing a Municipal Charge (3 weeks)

• Context: Council is investigating whether a Municipal Charge should be introduced as part of Council’s rating structure. A municipal charge would shift revenue from a variable, valuation-based component to a fixed component applied equally across defined property categories, without changing total Council funding.
• Details:
  • Council meeting: Wednesday 17 December 2025
  • Resolution:
    • Approve community engagement on implementing a Municipal Charge for three weeks
    • After consultation, present collected feedback to Council for further consideration
  • Consultation mechanics (as described in the report):
    • Engagement via Council website and online submissions platform
    • Submissions period stated as open until 5:00pm Friday 20 February 2026
    • Engagement hub: moorabool.engagementhub.com.au
    • Information/FAQs to be published on moorabool.vic.gov.au
• Impact: Enables residents to understand and influence how rate burden would be redistributed between fixed and valuation-based components, supporting transparency and compliance with Local Government Act 2020 engagement requirements.
• Next steps:
  • Run the three-week community engagement period (as endorsed).
  • Collect and analyse feedback.
  • Bring a report back to Council after the consultation period (with submissions/insights) for decision-making on whether to proceed and how.

Write to Victorian and Australian governments seeking bipartisan solution for Bacchus Marsh traffic

• Context: Council has an ongoing advocacy position for an “eastern link” to address long-standing Bacchus Marsh congestion, particularly heavy vehicle movements funnelled through town-centre intersections. A Notice of Motion sought bipartisan engagement with both levels of government.
• Details:
  • Council meeting: Wednesday 17 December 2025
  • Motion moved by: Cr Rod Ward, seconded by Cr Tom Sullivan
  • Resolution (writing to both Victorian and Australian governments and Opposition):
    1. Write to Victorian Government and Opposition requesting a bi-partisan approach to deliver a solution to Bacchus Marsh traffic congestion
    2. Write to Australian Government and Opposition requesting a bi-partisan approach to deliver a solution to Bacchus Marsh traffic congestion
  • Content highlights to be included in the letters:
    • Need for an eastern link since over 25 years ago
    • Congestion at a single intersection driving queuing; in excess of 280,000 heavy vehicle movements annually (as stated in the motion)
    • Proposed solution: eastern bypass from Geelong Road to Gisborne Road with a freeway interchange
    • Population growth: 11,729 to 26,763 (128%) and expected 55,566 by 2046 (374%)
    • Merrimu Precinct expected ~20,000 residents / 7,000 homes, adding pressure to Gisborne Road
    • Moorabool asked by State Government to build 20,000 new homes by 2035
    • Transport Victoria statement noted: “There are currently no plans for the construction of an eastern link road.”
  • Victorian recipients listed include:
    • Premier Hon Jacinta Allan
    • Treas./Regional Dev Hon Jaclyn Symes
    • Roads & Road Safety Hon Melissa Horne
    • Economic Growth & Jobs Hon Danny Pearson
    • Planning Hon Sonya Kilkenny
    • Local Government Hon Hick Staikos
    • Transport Infrastructure Hon Gabrielle Williams
    • Opposition leaders/shadow ministers including Ms Jess Wilson and Mr Danny O’Brien, Ms Beverley McArthur, Mr Richard Riordan
    • Parliamentary Secretary Michaela Settle MP, Stephen McGhie MP
  • Australian recipients listed include:
    • Prime Minister Hon Anthony Albanese MP
    • Minister Catherine King MP
    • Opposition leaders and shadow ministers including Sussan Ley MP, David Littleproud MP, Senator Bridget McKenzie
• Impact: Strengthens Council’s advocacy through coordinated bipartisan pressure, increasing the likelihood of prioritisation and corridor planning for the eastern link solution.
• Next steps:
  • Council administration to draft and send the letters to the specified Victorian and Australian recipients following the 17 December 2025 resolution.
  • Track responses and use them to inform subsequent advocacy and planning pathway actions.

Lodge federal submission to inquiry on local government funding sustainability by 3 Feb 2026

• Context: A federal inquiry is underway into the funding and financial sustainability of local governments in Australia. Council resolved to lodge a written submission to the House of Representatives Standing Committee by the required deadline.
• Details:
  • Council meeting: Wednesday 17 December 2025
  • Resolution:
    • Lodge a written submission to the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Regional Development, Infrastructure and Transport
    • Deadline: by 3 February 2026
    • Also send a copy with covering letter to specified Australian Government and Opposition representatives
  • Submission key points (as required “to note”):
    • Need for significant increase in untied and non-competitive federal funding
    • Reinstate Financial Assistance Grants to 1% of Commonwealth taxation revenue
    • Reform the FAG formula for equity based on capacity to raise revenue (peri-urban/small councils currently disadvantaged)
    • Make permanent the Housing Support Program
    • Establish Commonwealth grant funding (distinct from debt) to bring forward/enable infrastructure projects (water, power, sewage, footpaths, local roads, upgraded/signalised intersections, community amenities)
    • Equitable distribution of Commonwealth infrastructure funding (e.g., address disadvantage where co-contributions are not feasible)
    • Create growth funds for councils experiencing rapid growth (peri-urban councils including Moorabool)
    • Implement disaster recovery arrangements including “betterment” funding
    • Aligns with Council’s obligations under the Local Government Act 2020 for long-term financial sustainability
  • Copy recipients include:
    • PM Hon Anthony Albanese MP
    • Minister Catherine King MP
    • Minister Sam Rae MP
    • Opposition leaders Sussan Ley MP, David Littleproud MP
    • Shadow Senator Bridget McKenzie
    • Minister Kristy McBain MP
    • Chair Fiona Phillips MP
• Impact: Positions Moorabool’s peri-urban growth pressures within the national debate, supporting advocacy for funding model reforms that improve sustainability and reduce cost shifting impacts.
• Next steps:
  • Prepare and lodge the submission with the Standing Committee no later than 3 February 2026.
  • Send the covering letter copy to the listed federal stakeholders concurrently or immediately after lodging.

Community Impact

• Pet owners across Moorabool Shire: Adoption of the Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029 will increase Council’s focus on responsible pet ownership (microchipping/registration/desexing/containment), cat roaming enforcement (including a 2026 review of cat curfew hours), and officer training for compliance and investigations
• Ballan residents (Precinct 5 and surrounding areas): Planning Scheme Amendment C108moor will enable rezoning for a master-planned residential development (up to ~930 lots), increasing local population and changing land use from rural living to neighbourhood residential
• Ballan residents and road users: Development under C108moor will include community infrastructure contributions (sports reserve/pavilion, community facility, and a shared path along Old Melbourne Road) and require intersection upgrades via a Section 173 agreement for Geelong–Ballan Road/Old Melbourne Road
• Ballan residents near environmental constraints: The amendment applies overlays to protect remnant vegetation and manage environmental risks (e.g., vegetation protection, environmental audit overlay, and stormwater/biodiversity/bushfire considerations through future subdivision planning), potentially affecting site layouts and development design
• Bacchus Marsh residents and businesses: Adoption/authorisation steps for the Maddingley Planning Study and Amendment C119moor will progress statutory planning guidance for long-term evolution of the Maddingley area toward an employment/resource-recovery focus, with future rezoning/overlays to be exhibited and decided in later phases
• Ratepayers across Moorabool Shire: Council endorsement to consult on introducing a municipal charge will change how rates are distributed (shifting some burden from valuation-based variable charges to a fixed charge), potentially increasing costs for lower-valued properties and reducing costs for higher-valued properties depending on final design

Other Notable Items

• Community asked Council to support saving the Barwon Water aqueduct; further flora/fauna surveys required.
• Planning deputations included objectors and supporters for Ballan Precinct 5 (C108moor) and Maddingley (C119moor).
• Draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029 adopted; 70 consultation submissions, including cat curfew review added.
• Municipal charge investigation endorsed for 3-week engagement; feedback to return to Council for consideration.
• Notices of Motion: Bacchus Marsh “eastern link” traffic solution and federal/local government funding sustainability submission.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Meeting livestreaming (online recording/stream of council proceedings)
• Community consultation via online “Have Your Say” platform and online survey (Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029)
• Use of Council website and online engagement platform (“Have Your Say” / “engagementhub”) for public consultation on a proposed Municipal Charge
• Online submissions/engagement for planning processes (Planning Scheme Amendment C108moor public exhibition; Planning Scheme Amendment C119moor consultation strategy references online engagement)
• Reference to a municipal online engagement portal domain: moorabool.engagementhub.com.au

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Approved CEO annual leave (16 Jan–11 Feb 2026) and appointed Acting CEO.
• Appointed Councillor and community members to 2026 Community Asset Committees.
• Endorsed 2026 Council representatives for Working Groups and Industry Bodies.
• Appointed 2026 representatives to Council Advisory Committees.
• Received Recreation and Leisure Strategy 2025–2035 and Implementation Plan volumes.
• Received updated Dunnstown Recreation Reserve Master Plan for implementation planning.

Detailed Descriptions

Approved CEO annual leave (16 Jan–11 Feb 2026) and appointed Acting CEO

• Context: Council considered a request for the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to take annual leave in January–February 2026 and to ensure continuity of leadership during the absence.
• Details:
  • CEO: Derek Madden
  • Leave period approved: 5.00pm Friday 16 January 2026 to 8.30am Wednesday 11 February 2026
  • Acting CEO appointed for the same period: David Jackson
  • Decision made at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday, 3 December 2025
• Impact: Ensures uninterrupted executive management and governance continuity while the CEO is on leave, supporting delivery of Council priorities and operational stability.
• Next steps:
  • Acting CEO arrangements take effect from 5.00pm 16 January 2026 through 8.30am 11 February 2026.
  • Normal executive reporting and decision-making processes continue under the Acting CEO during this period.

Appointed Councillor and community members to 2026 Community Asset Committees

• Context: Council formally appointed representatives to its Community Asset Committees for the 2026 year to support community engagement and the management of Council assets (community halls and reserves).
• Details:
  • Decision made at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday, 3 December 2025
  • Councillor representatives and community members appointed for 2026 include:
    • Blacksmiths’ Cottage & Forge Community Asset Committee
      • Councillors: Cr John Keogh, Cr Moira Berry (sub)
      • Community members: Jenny Arrowsmith, Catherina (Trineke) Carr, Allan Comrie, Sharron Dickman, Lyn Egan, Richard Simon Fisher, Heath Sampson, Chrissy Stancliffe, Geoff Stancliffe
    • Dunnstown Recreation Reserve
      • Community members: Peter Bowman, Jaye Cahir, Andrea Lenaghan, Sam Lenaghan, Chris Leonard, Gerard Leonard, Kellie Leonard, Stephen Leonard, Barry Sheehan, Trish White
    • Elaine Recreation Reserve
      • Community members: Joanna Adcock, Kate Banner, James Connell, Diane Cook, Shane Dunne, Seamus Dunne, Stephen Ford, Chris Guidotti, Karen Hardy, Julie Pantzidis, Nicholas Pantzidis, Joyce Read, David Wells
    • Gordon Public Hall
      • Community members: Beryl Forster, Deanne Hocking, Sandra Jarrett, Jeremy Kruisheer, Linda Lawson
    • Greendale Recreation Reserve
      • Community members: Sarah Duncanson, Megan Erwin, Melanie Fairall, Kristin Sargent
    • Lal Lal Soldiers Memorial Hall
      • Community members: Sally Cameron, Ann Crick, John Crick, Nardia Elford, Siobhan Gosney, Engels Leoncini, Amanda May, Kenneth Peters, Daniel Stewart, Sue Witherspoon, Peter Witherspoon
    • Millbrook Community Centre
      • Community members: Jesse Beacham, Catherine Bray (Caz Beacham), Julian Elliott, Amanda Labbett, Mark Labbett, Georgina Reynolds, Paddy Ryan, Andrea Weigall, Mark Weigall, Luke Reynolds
    • Navigators Community Centre
      • Community members: Wayne Austin, Ole Kelderman, Rick Stephens
    • Wallace Public Hall
      • Community members: Tom Button, Teagan Button, Josie Donegan, Paul Mahar, Allan Tiley, Karen Tiley
    • Wallace Recreation Reserve
      • Community members: Josie Donegan, Shawn Kennedy, Maurice Mahar, Leanne O’Neill, Paul Mahar, Michael Quinlan, David Rogers, Allan Tiley, Karen Tiley, Jacob White
  • Council also:
    • Notifies each committee of the appointments and requests 2026 meeting schedules
    • Authorises the CEO to approve new members where extraordinary vacancies/new nominations occur during the year
• Impact: Strengthens local stewardship of Council-managed community facilities, improving responsiveness to community needs and supporting effective asset operations in 2026.
• Next steps:
  • Committees are to be notified and asked to schedule 2026 meetings.
  • CEO can approve replacements during the year if vacancies arise.

Endorsed 2026 Council representatives for Working Groups and Industry Bodies

• Context: Council endorsed its participation and formally appointed representatives for 2026 to external working groups and industry bodies to support advocacy and strategic input.
• Details:
  • Decision made at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday, 3 December 2025
  • Working Groups / Industry Bodies and 2026 representative arrangements include:
    • Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome Management Committee: Cr Sheila Freeman, Cr Rod Ward (sub), and Executive Manager Community Planning & Development
    • Bacchus Marsh District Trails Working Group: Cr Moira Berry, Cr Steven Venditti-Taylor (sub)
    • Central Highlands Community Road Safety Council: General Manager Community Assets & Infrastructure
    • Greater Ballarat Alliance of Councils: Mayor, Chief Executive Officer, Deputy Mayor (sub)
    • Grow West Implementation Committee: Cr John Keogh, Cr Moira Berry (sub), and Manager Environment & Waste
    • Lal Lal Falls Reserve Working Group: Cr Tom Sullivan, Cr Ally Munari (sub), and Manager Environment & Waste
    • Municipal Association of Victoria: Cr Tom Sullivan, Cr Steven Venditti-Taylor (sub)
    • Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee (MEMPC): Cr Ally Munari, Cr Jarrod Bingham (sub)
    • National Timber Councils Taskforce: Cr Tom Sullivan, Cr Steven Venditti-Taylor (sub)
    • Peri Urban Group of Rural Councils: Cr Moira Berry, Cr Steven Venditti-Taylor (sub), Chief Executive Officer, Executive Manager Community Planning & Development
    • Rural Councils Victoria: Mayor
    • Timber Towns Victoria: Cr Tom Sullivan
    • Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA): Mayor
    • Western Highway Action Committee: Cr Rod Ward, Cr Steven Venditti-Taylor (sub), and General Manager Community Assets & Infrastructure
  • Note: ALGWA (Australian Local Government Women’s Association) required no representative.
• Impact: Ensures Council has structured representation in regional and industry forums, supporting coordinated advocacy and informed decision-making on projects affecting the community.
• Next steps:
  • Council will notify each working group/industry body of the 2026 reappointment arrangements and request meeting schedules.

Appointed 2026 representatives to Council Advisory Committees

• Context: Council appointed councillor representatives to its Advisory Committees of Council for 2026 to provide structured advice to support Council decision-making.
• Details:
  • Decision made at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday, 3 December 2025
  • Appointed representatives for 2026:
    • Audit and Risk Advisory Committee: Cr Moira Berry, Cr Steven Venditti-Taylor, Cr Paul Tatchell (sub)
    • Australia Day Award Selection Panel: Mayor, Cr Moira Berry, Cr Ally Munari, Cr Paul Tatchell
    • Bacchus Marsh Public Hall Advisory Committee: Cr Jarrod Bingham, Cr Steven Venditti-Taylor (sub)
    • Disability Access & Inclusion Advisory Committee: Cr Paul Tatchell, Cr Moira Berry (sub)
    • Economic Development Taskforce Advisory Committee: All Councillors, CEO, General Managers
    • Heritage Advisory Committee: Cr Rod Ward, Cr John Keogh (sub)
    • Local Business Advisory Committee: Cr Paul Tatchell, Cr Rod Ward (sub)
    • Maddingley Park Advisory Committee: Cr Steven Venditti-Taylor, Cr Sheila Freeman (sub)
    • Moorabool Environment & Sustainability Advisory Committee: Cr John Keogh, Cr Moira Berry (sub)
    • Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Advisory Committee: Cr Sheila Freeman, Cr John Keogh (sub)
    • Positive Ageing Advisory Committee: Cr Sheila Freeman, Cr Paul Tatchell (sub)
    • Public Art and Collections Advisory Committee: Cr Ally Munari, Cr Moira Berry (sub)
  • Council also directed that committees be notified and asked for 2026 meeting schedules
• Impact: Improves governance quality by ensuring relevant councillors contribute to advisory work, strengthening Council’s planning and policy development.
• Next steps:
  • Committees will be notified of appointments and requested to provide 2026 meeting schedules.

Received Recreation and Leisure Strategy 2025–2035 and Implementation Plan volumes

• Context: Council received the final Recreation and Leisure Strategy following community engagement and public exhibition, including the implementation-focused volume.
• Details:
  • Decision made at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday, 3 December 2025
  • Council resolution:
    • Receives Volume 1: Recreation and Leisure Strategy 2025–2035
    • Receives Volume 2: Recreation and Leisure Strategy Implementation Plan
    • Notes Volume 3: Recreation and Leisure Strategy Background Report
  • Public exhibition period (for context of the final documents): 4 September – 6 October 2025
  • Engagement results noted in the report:
    • 964 page views, 682 downloads, 10 submissions
• Impact: Provides a long-term, evidence-informed framework to guide recreation and leisure investment and service planning across the Shire, with an actionable implementation pathway.
• Next steps:
  • Officers will proceed with ongoing delivery and implementation reporting to Council (regular updates were referenced in the report).
  • Projects identified in the Implementation Plan will be considered through Council’s capital and financial planning processes.

Received updated Dunnstown Recreation Reserve Master Plan for implementation planning

• Context: Council considered the final updated Master Plan after community consultation and exhibition, to enable planning for high-priority works at Dunnstown Recreation Reserve.
• Details:
  • Decision made at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday, 3 December 2025
  • Resolution: Council receives the updated Dunnstown Recreation Reserve Master Plan
  • Public exhibition period (for context): 4 September – 6 October 2025
  • Engagement results noted in the report:
    • 880 views, 472 downloads, 9 submissions
  • Feedback themes incorporated included:
    • Aligning netball and cricket upgrade timing concurrently
    • Lighting and shelter considerations for reserve frontage and pedestrian zones
    • Addressing concerns about loss of car parking (with expectation of more formalised parking)
    • Minor typographical/image updates
• Impact: Moves the community closer to delivery of reserve upgrades by turning consultation feedback into a final planning document that can be used for implementation and future capital program consideration.
• Next steps:
  • Officers will commence implementation planning for high-priority projects identified in the Master Plan.
  • Master Plan priority projects will be presented for consideration in future Capital Improvement Programs.

Community Impact

• Residents (all townships): Subsidised hard waste drop-off at Council transfer stations (2 x 1m³ allocations annually, no charge at the gate) starting in 2026/2027
• Residents (all townships): Subsidised green waste drop-off at transfer stations (no charge at the gate for one month annually) starting in 2026/2027
• Residents (all townships): Subsidised mattress drop-off at transfer stations (half price at the gate for one month annually) starting in 2026/2027
• Elderly/disabled residents (unable to self-haul): Targeted subsidised hard waste kerbside pick-up (2m³ allocation capped at 500 properties annually) starting in 2026/2027
• Dunnstown Recreation Reserve users: Master plan implementation will align netball/cricket upgrade timing and improve lighting/shelter, but may reduce car parking at the reserve frontage with reliance on more formalised parking arrangements
• Moorabool community (sporting & recreation users): Recreation and Leisure Strategy 2025–2035/Implementation Plan will guide future investment priorities (e.g., skate infrastructure, indoor pool support, and club facility upgrades) with projects progressing through the capital works/implementation process

Other Notable Items

• Public question: progress on Barrys Reef land/town/fire management and weed treatment follow-up.
• Public question: green waste removal survey results due around March 2026.
• Public question: Precinct 5 subdivision requires biodiversity management plan and targeted EPBC/FFG species surveys.
• Recreation and Leisure Strategy engagement: 964 page views, 682 downloads, 10 submissions; skate park and indoor pool feedback.
• Dunnstown Recreation Reserve Master Plan feedback: 880 views, 472 downloads; parking loss and walking track constraints discussed.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Meeting held “Council Chambers… & Online” and the meeting is livestreamed (online recording/streaming of council proceedings).
• Community engagement conducted via online survey and “Have Your Say” page (e.g., Recreation and Leisure Strategy 2025–2035; Dunnstown Recreation Reserve Master Plan).
• Online consultation metrics reported (e.g., page views/downloads/submissions) for strategy and master plan public exhibition.
• Customer/communications functions referenced via “Manager Customer & Communications” (no specific digital platform beyond the online livestream/consultation is detailed).
• IT/cybersecurity not mentioned; no explicit smart city or cybersecurity initiatives noted.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Receive the Mayor’s report for the November 2024–November 2025 term.
• Set the elected Mayor’s term of office to one (1) year.
• Elect Steve Venditti-Taylor as Mayor for the 2025/26 Council year.
• Establish a Deputy Mayor office and set the Deputy Mayor term to one (1) year.
• Elect Jarrod Bingham as Deputy Mayor for the 2025/26 Council year.
• Adopt 2026 Council meeting framework and schedule, including delegated committee dates.

Detailed Descriptions

Receive the Mayor’s report for the November 2024–November 2025 term

• Context: The Council’s Mayor, Cr Paul Tatchell, presented his annual report covering the Mayoral term from November 2024 to November 2025. Council was required to formally receive the report as part of the Statutory and Annual Appointments process.
• Details:
  • Report author: Dianne Elshaug (Coordinator, Office of the CEO)
  • Authoriser: Derek Madden (Chief Executive Officer)
  • Mayor’s report presented by: Cr Paul Tatchell
  • Committee resolution: Moved by Cr Ally Munari, Seconded by Cr Rod Ward
  • Meeting date: Wednesday, 12 November 2025
• Impact: Confirms Council has formally considered the outgoing Mayor’s account of the Council’s direction, achievements, and challenges over the term, supporting transparency and accountability to the community.
• Next steps: The report is recorded as received and the meeting proceeds to the expression of thanks and the formal appointment/election of the next Mayor and Deputy Mayor.

Set the elected Mayor’s term of office to one (1) year

• Context: Before electing the Mayor, Council must determine—by resolution—whether the Mayor is elected for a 1-year or 2-year term under the Local Government Act 2020 and Council’s Governance Rules.
• Details:
  • Legislative basis: Section 26(3) of the Local Government Act 2020; clause 4.1.2 of Council’s Governance Rules
  • Committee resolution: Moved by Cr Ally Munari, Seconded by Cr Rod Ward
  • Decision: Mayor’s term of office = one (1) year
  • Meeting date: Wednesday, 12 November 2025
• Impact: Establishes a shorter leadership cycle, enabling more frequent community representation through a refreshed Mayor each year.
• Next steps: Council proceeds to nominations and election of the Mayor for the 2025/26 Council year.

Elect Steve Venditti-Taylor as Mayor for the 2025/26 Council year

• Context: Following the determination that the Mayor’s term is one year, Council conducted nominations and a vote for the 2025/26 Council year.
• Details:
  • Nominations called by CEO: Derek Madden
  • Nominated candidates:
    • Cr Moira Berry (nominated by Cr Ally Munari)
    • Cr Paul Tatchell (nominated by Cr Tom Sullivan)
    • Cr Steve Venditti-Taylor (nominated by Cr John Keogh)
  • Voting outcome: After two rounds of voting, absolute majority achieved
  • Elected Mayor: Cr Steve Venditti-Taylor
  • Council year: 2025/26
  • Meeting date: Wednesday, 12 November 2025
• Impact: Places Cr Steve Venditti-Taylor as the community-facing leader of Moorabool Shire Council for the 2025/26 year, setting the tone for governance priorities and advocacy.
• Next steps: The newly elected Mayor assumes the Chair and the meeting continues to establish and elect the Deputy Mayor.

Establish a Deputy Mayor office and set the Deputy Mayor term to one (1) year

• Context: Council considered whether to establish the statutory office of Deputy Mayor (required to be resolved before electing a Deputy Mayor) and what term length would apply.
• Details:
  • Legislative basis:
    • Section 21 of the Local Government Act 2020 (Deputy Mayor role)
    • Section 20A of the Act (Council may establish Deputy Mayor office)
    • Sections 27(2) and 26(3) of the Act (term determination prior to election)
  • Committee resolution: Moved by Cr Rod Ward, Seconded by Cr Sheila Freeman
  • Decision:
    • Establish an office of Deputy Mayor
    • Deputy Mayor term of office = one (1) year
  • Meeting date: Wednesday, 12 November 2025
• Impact: Ensures continuity of leadership and delegation of Mayoral powers when the Mayor is unavailable, incapable, or when the office is vacant.
• Next steps: Council proceeds to call nominations and elect the Deputy Mayor for the 2025/26 Council year.

Elect Jarrod Bingham as Deputy Mayor for the 2025/26 Council year

• Context: After establishing the Deputy Mayor office and confirming a one-year term, nominations were called and a vote conducted for the 2025/26 Council year.
• Details:
  • Nominations called by the Mayor (Cr Steve Venditti-Taylor)
  • Nominated candidates:
    • Cr Jarrod Bingham (nominated by Cr Moira Berry)
    • Cr Sheila Freeman (nominated by Cr John Keogh)
    • Cr Ally Munari (nominated by Cr Paul Tatchell) — declined nomination
  • Voting outcome: After an absolute majority vote
  • Elected Deputy Mayor: Cr Jarrod Bingham
  • Council year: 2025/26
  • Meeting date: Wednesday, 12 November 2025
• Impact: Provides a designated Deputy Mayor to support governance continuity and represent the Council when required.
• Next steps: The meeting moves to CEO reports, including adoption of the 2026 Council meeting framework and schedule.

Adopt 2026 Council meeting framework and schedule, including delegated committee dates

• Context: Council considered and formally adopted its 2026 meeting framework to provide certainty and advance notice to residents, in line with the Local Government Act 2020 and Council’s Governance Rules.
• Details:
  • Committee resolution: Moved by Cr Rod Ward, Seconded by Cr John Keogh
  • Meeting venue for all listed meetings: Council Chambers, Ballan
  • Ordinary Council Meetings (first Wednesday each calendar month; 6:00pm; from February 2026):
    • 4 February; 4 March; 1 April; 6 May; 3 June; 1 July; 5 August; 2 September; 7 October; 4 November; 2 December; 16 December 2026
  • Development Assessment Committee (Delegated Committee of Council) (third Wednesday each calendar month; 6:00pm; from February 2026):
    • 18 February; 18 March; 15 April; 20 May; 17 June; 15 July; 19 August; 16 September; 21 October; 18 November; 9 December 2026
  • Moorabool Growth Management Committee (Delegated Committee of Council) (first Wednesday of every third calendar month; 3:30pm; from March 2026):
    • 4 March; 3 June; 2 September; 2 December 2026
  • Statutory Meeting of Council:
    • 11 November 2026 (Council Chambers, Ballan)
  • Additional provisions:
    • Public notice required (time, date, venue)
    • CEO authorised to amend the 2026 schedule as required and provide public notice of changes
  • Meeting date: Wednesday, 12 November 2025
• Impact: Improves transparency and community planning by locking in a predictable Council and delegated committee calendar for 2026.
• Next steps:
  • Council will provide public notice via its website and other advertising methods.
  • CEO may amend dates if required and must notify the public in accordance with Governance Rules.

Community Impact

• Residents (governance/leadership): Steve Venditti-Taylor elected Mayor for the 2025/26 council year, setting the leadership direction for council decisions affecting the Shire
• Residents (governance/leadership): Jarrod Bingham established as Deputy Mayor for a one-year term, acting in the Mayor’s place when required
• Residents (council transparency): Council meetings will continue to be livestreamed, improving public access to decision-making
• Residents (council access and planning decisions): Ordinary Council meetings scheduled for the first Wednesday of each month from February 2026 at 6:00pm in Ballan, providing a predictable forum for community input
• Residents (planning and development decisions): Development Assessment Committee meetings scheduled for the third Wednesday of each month from February 2026 at 6:00pm in Ballan, affecting how planning applications are considered
• Residents (growth and infrastructure planning): Moorabool Growth Management Committee meetings set for March/June/September/December 2026 at 3:30pm in Ballan, guiding urban and rural growth planning across the Shire

Other Notable Items

• Community engagement emphasis: Mayor described “voice of Council” and democracy shaping decisions.
• Budget pressure noted: EPA “massive hole” requiring trimming and rebalancing.
• Governance challenge raised: new councillors without wards affected local “coal face” connection.
• Operational resilience discussed: staff handling roads/potholes and disaster responses despite constraints.
• Future focus: 2026 meeting schedule set, plus Growth Management Committee convening quarterly.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Meeting livestreamed (digital recording/online access to council proceedings).
• Public notice of meeting dates to be advertised via Council’s website and social media (online/digital communications).

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Approve Lidgett Street Reserve renaming to Delwyn Leggatt Recreation Reserve.
• Receive and note 2017–2021 Council Plan outstanding actions progress (Q1 Jul–Sep 2025).
• Receive and note 2021–2025 Council Plan outstanding actions progress (Q1 Jul–Sep 2025).
• Receive and note 2025–2029 Council Plan progress report (Q1 Jul–Sep 2025).
• Appoint Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Advisory Committee members and notify appointees.
• Adopt Year Four progress report for Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan 2021–2025.

Detailed Descriptions

Approve Lidgett Street Reserve renaming to Delwyn Leggatt Recreation Reserve

• Context: Council received a community naming request to formally commemorate Delwyn Leggatt (OAM) by renaming the currently unnamed Lidgett Street Reserve in Bacchus Marsh.
• Details:
  • Council considered the naming request at its Ordinary Meeting on 3 September 2025, and resolved to undertake a 30-day community consultation.
  • Consultation period ran from 4 September 2025 to 3 October 2025 via the “Have Your Say” platform.
  • Advertising/notification included:
    • Moorabool Shire Council website
    • Facebook advertisement
    • A3 signage at Lidgett Street Reserve
  • Outcomes of consultation:
    • 12 submissions received total
    • 8 supporters and 4 objectors (67% supported)
  • The proposal was assessed as compliant with:
    • Council’s Place Naming Policy
    • Geographic Names Victoria Place Naming Rules (2022)
  • Council resolution (carried) directed submission to Geographic Names Victoria for review and then to the Victorian Government Gazette.
• Impact: Provides formal recognition of Delwyn Leggatt (OAM) and improves clarity/consistency for community identification of the reserve through an official place name.
• Next steps:
  • Submit the approved naming proposal to Geographic Names Victoria for review/approval.
  • Upon approval, progress to publication in the Victorian Government Gazette.

Receive and note 2017–2021 Council Plan outstanding actions progress (Q1 Jul–Sep 2025)

• Context: Council has a governance requirement to continue reporting on outstanding strategic actions carried over from the 2017–2021 Council Plan until completion.
• Details:
  • Item presented at the Ordinary Council Meeting on 5 November 2025.
  • There were 10 strategic actions outstanding as of 30 June 2021 (not captured in the 2021–2025 Council Plan).
  • As of 30 September 2025:
    • 8 actions completed
    • 2 actions remain “In Progress”
  • The two remaining actions have reached between 85% and 89% of their target.
  • Resolution: Council received and noted the report (including Attachment 1) covering Q1 (July–September 2025).
• Impact: Maintains transparency and accountability for legacy commitments, and confirms that only two items remain near completion.
• Next steps:
  • Continue quarterly reporting on the two remaining in-progress actions until completion (with further updates at subsequent Q1/Q2/Q3/Q4 reporting cycles).

Receive and note 2021–2025 Council Plan outstanding actions progress (Q1 Jul–Sep 2025)

• Context: Council continues to track strategic actions that were incomplete at the end of the 2021–2025 Council Plan and not included in the 2025–2029 Council Plan.
• Details:
  • Presented at the 5 November 2025 Ordinary Council Meeting.
  • As of 30 June 2025:
    • 20 actions were outstanding from the 2021–2025 Council Plan.
  • As of 30 September 2025:
    • 11 actions completed
    • 9 actions remain incomplete/in progress
  • Progress on the 9 remaining actions is reported as between 20% and 95% of target.
  • Resolution: Council received and noted the report (including Attachment 1) for Q1 (July–September 2025).
• Impact: Ensures community confidence in delivery of the Council’s strategic commitments and highlights that most outstanding actions are already substantially progressed.
• Next steps:
  • Continue quarterly reporting for the remaining 9 actions until all reach completion.

Receive and note 2025–2029 Council Plan progress report (Q1 Jul–Sep 2025)

• Context: The 2025–2029 Council Plan uses quarterly performance reporting to track Year 1 delivery status against planned actions.
• Details:
  • Presented at the 5 November 2025 Ordinary Council Meeting.
  • Q1 reporting period: July–September 2025.
  • Year 1 action set:
    • 35 actions total to be achieved in Year 1.
  • As of 30 September 2025, Year 1 action status:
    • 24 actions “on track” (green)
    • 5 actions “requiring monitoring” (yellow)
    • 6 actions “off track” (red)
  • Summary by strategic objective (Year 1 totals):
    • Healthy, inclusive and safe communities: 8 total (0 completed, 5 on track, 1 off track, 2 monitor)
    • A dynamic and resilient local economy: 7 total (0 completed, 5 on track, 1 off track, 1 monitor)
    • Place and spaces that meet the need of our many and varied communities: 12 total (0 completed, 8 on track, 2 off track, 2 monitor)
    • A Council that engages and adapts: 8 total (0 completed, 6 on track, 2 off track, 0 monitor)
  • Resolution: Council received and noted the progress report (including Attachment 1).
• Impact: Gives the community and Council a clear, current view of delivery performance, including where corrective attention is needed (yellow/red actions).
• Next steps:
  • Upload detailed progress comments and performance status to the online Council Performance Dashboard in October 2025.
  • Continue quarterly updates and report end-of-year progress through the Annual Report.

Appoint Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Advisory Committee members and notify appointees

• Context: Council undertook an Expression of Interest process and adopted new Terms of Reference for the Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Advisory Committee, aligned to the implementation period of the Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025–2029.
• Details:
  • Resolution at 5 November 2025 Ordinary Council Meeting.
  • Council approved appointments of the following members (including proxies):
    • Trinity Gathercole (Proxy: Ben Taylor) — Western Health
    • Mark Sultana — Department of Justice and Community Safety
    • Gerard Finnigan — Grampians Public Health Unit
    • Dee Micevski (Proxy: Rose Durey) — Women’s Health Grampians
    • Andrew Milligan (Proxy: Mathew Begbie) — Sports Central
    • Louise Mayall (Proxy: Kylie Fenwick) — mecwacare
    • Linda Borner (Proxy: Jo Smith) — Cafs
    • Mohammed Isah — Community Representative
    • Davina Cabrie — Community Representative
  • Council also approved that the Chief Executive Officer notify the newly confirmed members of their appointments.
• Impact: Strengthens health and wellbeing governance by ensuring Council receives expert and community input through a properly constituted advisory body.
• Next steps:
  • CEO to notify all newly confirmed members of their appointment.
  • Committee membership finalisation to occur following the Ordinary Meeting outcome (as referenced in the communications plan for November 2025).

Adopt Year Four progress report for Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan 2021–2025

• Context: The Victorian Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008 requires Council to conduct an annual review of its Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan (the Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan 2021–2025).
• Details:
  • Presented at the 5 November 2025 Ordinary Council Meeting.
  • Plan adoption history:
    • Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan 2021–2025 adopted at a Special Meeting on 27 October 2021.
  • Year Four action results:
    • Total Year Four actions scheduled: 37
    • Additional rollover actions from Year Three: 2
    • 37 Year Four actions completed
    • 2 rollover actions in progress
  • Resolution: Council adopted the Year Four progress report (including the attached Year Four action summary report).
  • Key examples of outcomes referenced in the report include:
    • Dunnstown Recreation Reserve upgrades to football/cricket change rooms (female friendly)
    • Sustainability Victoria funded project: $64,000 (recycling contamination reduction from 27% to <10%, battery contamination from 2% to <0.002%)
    • Lerderderg Library Brains Hub event on 14 May 2025 with 85 attendees
• Impact: Confirms delivery of the majority of Year Four commitments, supports compliance with state legislative requirements, and provides accountability to residents and partner organisations.
• Next steps:
  • Provide the adopted Year Four report to the relevant Department as required under the annual review process.
  • Continue monitoring the two Year Three rollover actions until completion, with reporting through subsequent review cycles.

Community Impact

• Bacchus Marsh residents: Official renaming of Lidgett Street Reserve to “Delwyn Leggatt Recreation Reserve,” including submission to Geographic Names Victoria and the Victorian Government Gazette
• Moorabool residents (service planning/continuity): Continued quarterly reporting and delivery of outstanding Council Plan actions from 2017–2021 and 2021–2025 (with some actions still “in progress”)
• Shire-wide residents: Council Plan Year 1 performance reporting published to the online Council Performance Dashboard (24 actions on track, 5 requiring monitoring, 6 off track)
• Health and wellbeing stakeholders: New membership confirmed for the Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Advisory Committee, shaping evidence-based advice to Council on health and wellbeing priorities
• Farmers and primary producers: Ongoing distribution and Council participation in the Grampians Drought Coordination Group to support awareness/access to federal and Victorian drought funding and support programs
• Community groups and event attendees: August 2025 Community Grants allocations approved ($95,284.68 across 12 projects), plus potential future sponsorship consideration for Ballan Autumn Festival and Blackwood Woodchop/Easter Carnival (funding would require future budget allocation)

Other Notable Items

• Community consultation for Lidgett Street Reserve naming: 12 submissions, 8 supporters, 4 objectors.
• Public question raised equine licensing limits and process for Bacchus Marsh Racecourse equestrian facilities.
• Council Plan Q1 update: 6 actions “off track” (red) across Year 1 priorities.
• Notice of Motion responses: second state secondary school advocacy and drought funding eligibility information.
• Community Grants August 2025: 12 projects recommended for $95,284.68 after two applications withdrew.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Digital services / online platforms

  • Council meeting livestreamed (recording/streaming noted under Governance Rules).
  • Community consultation for reserve naming conducted via the “Have Your Say” online platform and supported by council website/social media/signage.
  • Council performance reporting planned to be published on an online Council Performance Dashboard.
  • Community engagement for grants/participation promoted via Council website, e-News, social media channels, and online drop-in sessions.

• IT / digital transformation / governance

  • Use of an online Council Performance Dashboard for publishing progress/performance against Council Plan actions.

• Smart city initiatives

  • No explicit smart city initiatives mentioned.

• Tech community / innovation

  • No hackathons, startups, or innovation/tech community references mentioned.

• Cybersecurity / IT infrastructure

  • No explicit cybersecurity or IT infrastructure items mentioned.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Council received the Moorabool Shire Council Annual Report 2024–2025.

Detailed Descriptions

Council received the Moorabool Shire Council Annual Report 2024–2025

• Context: Under the Local Government Act 2020, Moorabool Shire Council must prepare an Annual Report and have it formally received at a public meeting of Council. The report was presented to Council for consideration at the Special Council Meeting held on 29 October 2025.
• Details:
  • Meeting: Unscheduled/Special Council Meeting, Wednesday 29 October 2025
  • Location/format: Council Chambers, 15 Stead Street, Ballan & online
  • Item: 7.1 Moorabool Shire Council Annual Report 2024–2025
  • Author: Leanne Manton, Manager Customer and Communications
  • Authoriser: David Jackson, General Manager Customer and Corporate Services
  • Resolution:
    • Moved: Cr Ally Munari
    • Seconded: Cr Steven Venditti-Taylor
    • Motion: That Council receives the Moorabool Shire Council Annual Report 2024–2025 in accordance with Section 98 of the Local Government Act 2020
    • Result: Carried
  • Financial implications: None
  • Risk/OH&S issues: None
  • Communications/consultation: Community informed via newspaper advertising/website (various dates in October)
  • Public access arrangements:
    • Hard copies available at Council offices for inspection and can be supplied upon request
    • Public can download the report from the Council website
• Impact: Formal receipt of the Annual Report ensures Council compliance with statutory reporting requirements and enables the community to access performance and accountability information for 2024–2025.
• Next steps:
  • The Annual Report will be made a public document on the Council website
  • It will be available for inspection at Council offices and can be provided to stakeholders upon request (following the meeting after 29 October 2025).

Community Impact

• Residents (general): Council formally receives the Moorabool Shire Council Annual Report 2024–2025, making the council’s performance and activities for the year an official public document
• Residents (access to information): Annual Report will be available for download on the Council website and available in hard copy at Council offices on request
• Ratepayers (accountability): Public release of the Annual Report supports transparency and accountability regarding Council Plan alignment and service/resource use
• Community stakeholders (engagement): Community is informed via newspaper advertising/website that the Annual Report is being presented to Council in October
• Residents (financial impact): No direct financial implications are stated from the decision to receive the Annual Report
• Residents (risk/operations): No specific risk or occupational health and safety impacts are identified because the decision is administrative (receiving the report)

Other Notable Items

• Council received the Moorabool Shire Council Annual Report 2024–2025 (required under Local Government Act 2020).
• Public access planned: Annual Report available via website download and hard copies on request.
• No community presentations/deputations were scheduled for this meeting.
• No conflicts of interest disclosed by councillors or officers.
• Next steps noted: Annual Report to be made a public document after Council receives it.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Council Annual Report 2024–2025 to be made available to the public, including the ability for the public to download the report from the Council website (online/digital service).

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Appointed Mr John Watson as independent member of Audit and Risk Advisory Committee (2025–2028).
• Approved draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2030 for four-week public exhibition.
• Adopted 2024/25 Governance and Management Checklist for Annual Report inclusion and Local Government Victoria submission.
• Adopted “in principle” 2024/25 Performance Statement for Auditor-General certification submission.
• Determined no expressed or latent demand for outdoor table tennis tables in public parks.
• Adopted Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025–2029 following community consultation updates.

Detailed Descriptions

Appointed Mr John Watson as independent member of Audit and Risk Advisory Committee (2025–2028)

• Context: The Audit and Risk Advisory Committee required a new independent member after the retirement of independent member Ms Linda MacRae, with the vacancy to occur on 1 October 2025. Council needed to maintain compliance with the Local Government Act 2020 and its Audit and Risk Advisory Committee Charter (more independent members than councillors; 3 independent members and 2 councillors total).
• Details:
  • Council meeting date: Wednesday, 1 October 2025
  • Vacancy: 1 October 2025 (retirement of Ms Linda MacRae)
  • Recruitment process:
    • Applications called for three weeks in July 2025
    • Six (6) applications received
    • Interview panel comprised:
      • Current Chairperson of the Audit and Risk Advisory Committee
      • General Manager Customer and Corporate Services
      • A nominated Councillor on the Committee
  • Preferred candidate: Mr John Watson
  • Appointment term: 1 October 2025 to 30 September 2028
  • Allowances (as set at the Special Meeting of Council on 26 August 2020):
    • Chairperson: $1,340 per meeting
    • Remaining independent members (including Mr Watson): $1,000 per meeting
  • Resolution moved by Cr John Keogh, seconded by Cr Moira Berry; CARRIED
• Impact: Ensures the committee continues to meet legislative and charter requirements for independent oversight of Council’s financial/performance reporting, risk management, fraud prevention, internal controls, audit processes, and compliance monitoring—supporting stronger governance for the community.
• Next steps:
  • Mr John Watson will commence his role on 1 October 2025 for the term ending 30 September 2028.
  • Committee operations continue with the updated independent membership composition.

Approved draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2030 for four-week public exhibition

• Context: Under the Domestic Animals Act 1994, Moorabool Shire Council must prepare and update a Domestic Animal Management Plan every four years. Council endorsed the draft plan to allow community feedback before final adoption.
• Details:
  • Council meeting date: Wednesday, 1 October 2025
  • Resolution outcomes:
    1. Approved the draft Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) 2026–2030 for community consultation
    2. Placed the draft DAMP on public exhibition for four (4) weeks
    3. Receives a further report at a future Ordinary Meeting after exhibition concludes
  • Public exhibition timeline (as proposed in the report):
    • Commences: 3 October 2025
    • Concludes: Friday, 31 October 2025
  • Consultation method:
    • Have Your Say website with a short survey
    • Plan promotion via Council website, printed and paid social media
    • Opportunities for direct engagement via drop-in sessions and outreach to local vet clinics
  • Consultation period: October–November 2025 (four-week exhibition window spanning early/mid-late October)
  • Financial implications: delivered within existing operational budgets; no new initiatives requiring additional funding
  • Resolution moved by Cr Tom Sullivan, seconded by Cr Jarrod Bingham; CARRIED
• Impact: Residents and stakeholders can shape the next four-year framework for responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, enforcement approaches, and officer training—improving transparency and alignment with community expectations.
• Next steps:
  • Collect and review submissions received during 3–31 October 2025
  • Incorporate feedback and amend the draft as required
  • Present the final DAMP for Council adoption in late 2025 (anticipated), following the exhibition period.

Adopted 2024/25 Governance and Management Checklist for Annual Report inclusion and Local Government Victoria submission

• Context: The Local Government Performance Reporting Framework (LGPRF) requires Councils to assess and report against a governance and management checklist. This checklist must be adopted by Council and included in the Annual Report, then submitted/published via Local Government Victoria’s “Know Your Council” platform.
• Details:
  • Council meeting date: Wednesday, 1 October 2025
  • Resolution:
    • Adopted the 2024/25 Governance and Management Checklist
    • Approved inclusion in the 2024/25 Annual Report
    • Approved submission to Local Government Victoria for publication on the “Know Your Council” website
  • Legislative basis:
    • Requirement under Section 98(3)(c) of the Local Government Act 2020
    • Regulation reference: Regulation 9 of the Local Government (Planning and Reporting) Regulations 2020
  • Checklist scope:
    • Contains 27 items
    • Officer assessment: 27/27 items established and in operation
  • Financial implications: none
  • Resolution moved by Cr Moira Berry, seconded by Cr John Keogh; CARRIED
• Impact: Strengthens compliance and accountability in governance reporting, providing the community and regulators with assurance that Council’s governance systems meet prescribed requirements.
• Next steps:
  • Checklist will be:
    • Incorporated into the 2024/25 Annual Report
    • Submitted to Local Government Victoria
    • Published on “Know Your Council”
  • Mayor and Chief Executive Officer certification and related reporting steps continue as required by the framework.

Adopted “in principle” 2024/25 Performance Statement for Auditor-General certification submission

• Context: Council must include an audited Performance Statement in its Annual Report and have it certified by the Auditor-General. Council adopted the statement “in principle” to enable submission, while allowing for final changes after Auditor review.
• Details:
  • Council meeting date: Wednesday, 1 October 2025
  • Resolution (in accordance with Section 99 of the Local Government Act 2020):
    1. Adopted “in principle” the 2024/25 Performance Statement
    2. Submitted it to the Victorian Auditor-General for certification, subject to no material change
    3. Authorised Audit and Risk Advisory Committee representatives to certify the final form after Auditor-recommended/negotiated changes:
  • Councillor Tatchell
  • Councillor Berry
  • Audit and Risk Committee review:
    • Presented to Audit & Risk Committee on Wednesday, 17 September 2025
  • Performance indicators:
    • 28 mandated performance indicators total:
      • 7 sustainable capacity
      • 10 service performance
      • 11 financial performance
  • Annual reporting timing (noted in the report):
    • Annual Report lodged with the Minister prior to 31 October 2025
    • Annual Report publicly available on Council’s website and at office locations in November 2025
  • Resolution moved by Cr John Keogh, seconded by Cr Sheila Freeman; CARRIED
• Impact: Enables timely completion of statutory performance reporting and helps maintain public confidence in Council’s performance measurement, transparency, and independent assurance processes.
• Next steps:
  • Submit the “in principle” Performance Statement to the Auditor-General for certification
  • Implement any Auditor-requested changes
  • Councillor representatives (Cr Tatchell and Cr Berry) certify the final form once changes are made.

Determined no expressed or latent demand for outdoor table tennis tables in public parks

• Context: A Notice of Motion (No. 294) requested Council evaluate the benefits, options, cost, and suitable locations for installing outdoor table tennis tables in public parks. Council’s recreation/leisure strategy research informed the demand assessment.
• Details:
  • Council meeting date: Wednesday, 1 October 2025
  • Resolution:
    • Council established that there is no expressed or latent demand for outdoor table tennis tables in public parks within Moorabool Shire
  • Evidence cited:
    • Research in development of Recreation and Leisure Strategy 2025–2035 found no expressed or latent demand
    • Ausplay participation rate for table tennis:
      • 2.2% (people aged 15+)
      • 0.4% (children up to 14 years old)
    • Any demand likely accommodated by neighbouring municipalities at Ballarat and Melton Table Tennis Associations
  • Practical constraints noted (from the report):
    • Outdoor installation cost per table estimated at $5,000–$8,000
    • No allocation in the 2025/26 adopted budget
    • Underutilisation risk without activation (e.g., tournaments/signage/equipment rental)
  • Resolution moved by Cr John Keogh, seconded by Cr Moira Berry; CARRIED
• Impact: Redirects resources away from a project with insufficient demonstrated demand, reducing the risk of underused assets and avoidable maintenance/vandalism costs in public parks.
• Next steps:
  • No short-term installation will proceed.
  • Future consideration would require a demonstrated demand case and budget allocation (implied by the report’s approach).

Adopted Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025–2029 following community consultation updates

• Context: Council sought to adopt the Health and Wellbeing Plan after completing community consultation on the draft version. Feedback was assessed and updates were made before final adoption.
• Details:
  • Council meeting date: Wednesday, 1 October 2025
  • Resolution:
    1. Adopted the Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025–2029
    2. Noted the Background – Data Source
  • Consultation timeline and process:
    • Draft briefing to Council: 6 August 2025
    • Public exhibition via Have Your Say: 7 August to 25 August 2025
    • Stakeholders included internal and external parties
    • Consultation responses received: 3 responses total
      • 2 from residents
      • 1 from Cancer Council of Victoria
  • Updates made to the draft based on feedback (examples explicitly listed in the report):
    • Sustainability/climate adaptation workshops:
      • Added wording to include information sessions supporting older residents to adapt homes/lifestyles for high-heat days and weather events
    • Young people included as stakeholders for community tree planting days:
      • Recognises participation benefits for young people’s mental health
    • Clean-up initiatives:
      • Added promotion of Great Spring Clean alongside Clean Up Australia Day
    • Landcare/tree planting:
      • Promoted local Landcare groups and tree planting days; free native plants annually to support habitats, thermal comfort, and UV protection
  • Financial implications: none
  • Resolution moved by Cr Rod Ward, seconded by Cr Moira Berry; CARRIED
• Impact: Provides an updated, community-informed roadmap for health and wellbeing priorities across Moorabool for 2025–2029, improving relevance and community trust in Council planning.
• Next steps:
  • Plan is now adopted and ready for implementation across Council programs and partnerships.
  • Ongoing monitoring and reporting will occur through Council’s established planning/reporting processes (as per the plan’s structure and Council governance).

Community Impact

• Residents (animal owners): Four-week public exhibition and consultation on the Draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2030 (3 Oct–31 Oct 2025), with changes to Council’s animal management programs, education and enforcement likely to follow
• Residents (all shire): Adoption of the Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025–2029, including updated actions such as using community facilities/libraries for sustainability & climate adaptation workshops and supporting tree planting initiatives that include young people
• Residents (park users): Council determination that there is no expressed or latent demand for outdoor table tennis tables in public parks in the short term, meaning no new outdoor table tennis installations will be delivered
• Residents (community sporting users): Continued Council advocacy to the Victorian Government for justification and increased funding for community sport and recreation infrastructure after a reported state funding reduction, potentially affecting future availability/timing of upgrades
• Pool users in Bacchus Marsh & Ballan: Potential change to outdoor pool opening hours during school terms on hotter days (forecast 23°C by 10am), which would increase staffing/operating hours and improve access during school hours (subject to the policy change being implemented)
• Ratepayers/residents (service transparency): Adoption “in principle” of the 2024/25 Governance & Management Checklist and Performance Statement (for Auditor-General certification), supporting ongoing public reporting of Council performance and governance arrangements

Other Notable Items

• Community feedback found no latent demand for outdoor table tennis parks; activation and budget constraints noted.
• Draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2030 to go on four-week public exhibition (3–31 Oct 2025).
• Stakeholder consultation completed for Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan; updates included youth tree-planting and heat-adaptation workshops.
• Response provided to urgent pool-hours request; 84 social media posts and 173 comments showed strong community interest.
• Councillor recognition: Darley Football Netball Club premierships and “Lois Hunt” remembered by multiple councillors.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Council meeting livestreaming (meeting recorded and livestreamed online)
• Public consultation via Council’s “Have Your Say” website/portal (Draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2030; Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025–2029)
• Publication of governance/reporting materials on external digital platforms:
  • Local Government Victoria “Know Your Council” website (Governance & Management Checklist)
  • Council website (Annual Report/public availability referenced)
• ICT-related briefing mentioned in councillors’ reports (“ICT Update, September 2025”)
• Online promotion/engagement channels referenced:
  • Recruitment ads promoted via Council website and social media (including LinkedIn)
  • Leisure Services Facebook page used for community feedback on outdoor pool opening hours
• Use of videoconferencing for Peri Urban Councils Victoria (PUCV) catch-up (online meeting)
• Digital/online service governance and reporting processes (performance statements, financial statements, and governance checklist submitted for certification and publication)

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Revoke and remake CEO Instrument of Delegation (S5) under Local Government Act 2020.
• Adopt revised Instrument of Delegation to Council staff (S6), revoking 12 May 2023 version.
• Approve Planning and Environment Act 1987 officer appointments/authorisations (S11A) and update staff list.
• Approve Environment Protection Act 2017 officer appointments/authorisations (S11B) and update staff list.
• Endorse Western Renewables Link EES submission and authorise minor non-intent changes.
• Progress Indoor Aquatic facility design and proceed with Dunnstown Recreation Reserve Master Plan exhibition.

Detailed Descriptions

Revoke and remake CEO Instrument of Delegation (S5) under Local Government Act 2020

• Context: Council must review delegations after a general election and ensure the CEO delegation remains compliant with section 11 of the Local Government Act 2020. The current S5 Instrument was authorised at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday 1 September 2021.
• Details:
  • Resolution (3 September 2025) delegated powers to the person holding/acting in/performing the duties of Chief Executive Officer (CEO), being Derek Madden.
  • Delegation is made under section 11(1) of the Local Government Act 2020, with the Instrument to be signed under the Common Seal.
  • The Instrument comes into force immediately when the Common Seal is affixed.
  • On the coming into force of the new Instrument, all previous delegations to the CEO are revoked.
  • The proposed S5 Instrument is described as unaltered from the current Instrument.
  • Financial/emergency continuity note: the Instrument retains a business continuity exception allowing the CEO to award contracts up to $3,000,000 in a declared State of Emergency.
• Impact: Ensures Council’s decision-making authority is legally current, supports continuity of operations, and improves transparency by keeping the delegation instrument available on Council’s website.
• Next steps:
  • Affix the Common Seal to the new S5 Instrument immediately following Council’s resolution (3 September 2025).
  • Publish/update the delegation register and make the Instrument available on Council’s website (per the statutory transparency requirement referenced in the report).

Adopt revised Instrument of Delegation to Council staff (S6), revoking 12 May 2023 version

• Context: Council’s Instrument of Delegation to staff must be kept current to reflect legislative amendments and organisational position changes. The existing S6 Instrument dated 12 May 2023 is to be replaced.
• Details:
  • Resolution (3 September 2025) adopts the revised Instrument of Delegation from Council to Members of Council Staff (S6) (Attachment 1).
  • The Instrument is sealed with the Common Seal and comes into force immediately upon sealing.
  • Council explicitly revokes the current Instrument dated 12 May 2023 upon coming into force of the new Instrument.
  • Council authorises the CEO to make administrative changes only to correct titles/typographical errors to enable appropriate sealing, without changing intent.
  • The revised Instrument reflects minor updates including amendments to provisions of the Local Government Act 2020 and corrections to officers delegated.
• Impact: Maintains legal certainty for day-to-day staff decision-making, reduces risk of decisions being made without proper authority, and supports efficient service delivery for the Moorabool community.
• Next steps:
  • Seal the revised S6 Instrument immediately (3 September 2025).
  • Update the delegation register and ensure the sealed instrument is available for transparency purposes (as required under section 11(8) referenced in the report).

Approve Planning and Environment Act 1987 officer appointments/authorisations (S11A) and update staff list

• Context: Under section 147(4) of the Planning and Environment Act 1987, Council must appoint authorised officers for the Act and regulations. Council is updating the S11A Instrument to reflect current staffing.
• Details:
  • Resolution (3 September 2025) approves the S11A Instrument of Appointment and Authorisation under section 147(4) of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 only, executed under the Common Seal.
  • The previous S11A Instrument is revoked, with revocation taking effect immediately upon execution of the new Instrument.
  • Additions to the authorised officer staff list:
    • Jillian McQuade (Coordinator Strategic Planning)
    • Curtis Greenwell (Statutory Planner Enforcement)
    • Damian Visentini (Community Safety Officer)
    • Frank Val (Community Safety Officer)
    • Matthew Milbourne (Coordinator Growth Area Planning)
    • Melanie Tatenhove (Community Safety Officer)
    • Robert Cobolli (Manager Statutory Planning & Regulatory Services)
    • Wayne Clarke (Municipal Building Surveyor/Coordinator Building Services)
    • Faye Laskaris (Senior Public Health Officer)
    • Catherine McLay (Special Projects Communications Officer)
  • Removals from the authorised officer staff list:
    • Andy Gaze (Coordinator Community Health and Safety)
    • Cliff Bostock (Coordinator Strategic Planning)
    • Jyoti Makan (Senior Strategic Planner)
    • Paul Bezemer (Coordinator Growth Area Planning)
    • Sarah Kernohan (Manager Growth and Development)
    • Simon Glenister (Statutory Planning Enforcement Officer)
• Impact: Ensures enforcement, compliance, and (where required) institution of proceedings under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 are carried out by properly appointed and authorised officers—improving fairness, legality, and operational effectiveness.
• Next steps:
  • Execute the S11A Instrument under the Common Seal immediately after the resolution (3 September 2025).
  • Update internal records/staff authorisation lists to reflect the additions/removals.

Approve Environment Protection Act 2017 officer appointments/authorisations (S11B) and update staff list

• Context: Council is a joint regulator with EPA Victoria under the Environment Protection Act 2017 and must appoint authorised officers to regulate delegated provisions. Council is updating the S11B Instrument to match current staff.
• Details:
  • Resolution (3 September 2025) approves the S11B Instrument of Appointment and Authorisation (Environment Protection Act 2017 only).
  • The Instrument comes into force immediately when the Common Seal is affixed and remains in force until Council varies or revokes it.
  • Additions to the authorised officer staff list:
    • Jakob Penn (Coordinator Community Safety)
    • Leo Tartaglione (Senior Public Health Officer)
    • Robert Cobolli (Manager Statutory Planning & Regulatory Services)
    • Mel Tatehove (Community Safety Officer)
    • Vaisos Tsotinos (Community Safety Officer)
    • Damien Visentini (Community Safety Officer)
    • Narelle Sillitoe (Community Safety Officer)
    • Frank Val (Community Safety Officer)
    • Zac Reale (Community Safety Officer)
• Impact: Strengthens Council’s capacity to administer and enforce relevant Environment Protection Act 2017 provisions through properly authorised officers, supporting environmental protection outcomes for the community.
• Next steps:
  • Affix the Common Seal to the S11B Instrument immediately following Council’s resolution (3 September 2025).
  • Update internal authorisation registers and ensure officers’ delegations align with the new Instrument.

Endorse Western Renewables Link EES submission and authorise minor non-intent changes

• Context: Western Renewables Link (WRL) has been exhibited through an Environment Effects Statement (EES) and Draft Planning Scheme Amendment GC209. Council required endorsement to lodge its submission by the extended deadline.
• Details:
  • Resolution (3 September 2025) endorses Moorabool Shire Council’s submission responding to the exhibited WRL EES and Planning Scheme Amendment GC209.
  • Council’s submission deadline extension noted in the report:
    • Original exhibition timeframe: 30 June to 25 August 2025 (40 business days).
    • Extension granted for Council submission until 4 September 2025 (reported as 12pm, 4 September 2025 in the background).
  • Council’s position in the submission includes:
    • Opposition to the project proceeding as a fully overhead transmission line.
    • Concerns about environmental impacts (social, visual, bushfire risk) and adequacy of environmental assessment/alternatives evaluation (including undergrounding options).
    • If overhead proceeds, Council requests amendments to further minimise/mitigate environmental effects (including partial undergrounding and enforceability/regulatory framework improvements, and consultation at appropriate stages).
  • Authorisation: Executive Manager Community Planning and Development (Henry Bezuidenhout) may make minor amendments to the submission(s) where they do not alter the intent.
• Impact: Enables Council’s concerns to be formally considered in the EES process and supports community advocacy regarding environmental and local impacts.
• Next steps:
  • Lodge the endorsed submission by 4 September 2025 (by 12pm).
  • Provide any expanded written/oral submissions for the EES public hearing following the initial submission (as foreshadowed in the report).

Progress Indoor Aquatic facility design and proceed with Dunnstown Recreation Reserve Master Plan exhibition

• Context: Council has secured/allocated funding commitments toward an Indoor Aquatic facility at the MARC Stadium precinct, and it is refreshing the planning framework for the Dunnstown Recreation Reserve due to superseded prior planning and growing infrastructure needs.
• Details:
  • Indoor Aquatic facility (MARC Stadium, Taverner Street, Maddingley):
    • Resolution (3 September 2025) approves officers to proceed with design based on available budget and market conditions.
    • Adopted Long Term Financial Plan allocation:
      • $45 million total: $30 million grants and $15 million Council loans.
      • After the May 2025 federal election, additional $25 million federal funding was allocated, plus Victorian commitment $10 million, and with additional $5 million federal funding secured the total project budget increases to $50 million.
    • Funding model for full project cost (as stated):
      • State $10m, Federal $25m, Council $15m, Total $50m.
    • Officers to aim for functional areas (e.g., 25m lap pool with accessible ramp, warm water pool, learn-to-swim facilities, provisional dry sauna/steam/spa, toddlers’ zero-depth play area, change facilities, kiosk, gymnasium, group fitness room).
    • Next report: once a draft design is developed, a report will return to Council.
  • Dunnstown Recreation Reserve Master Plan:
    • Resolution (3 September 2025) approves progressing the draft Master Plan to a four-week public exhibition phase.
    • Notes that after consultation, the Master Plan will be presented to Council for final consideration at a later date.
    • The draft plan is intended to deliver short/medium/long-term landscape concepts achievable within 10 years.
    • Developed by LMH Consulting Group with the Dunnstown Recreation Reserve Community Asset Committee, user groups, and tenant clubs.
• Impact:
  • Indoor Aquatic facility: keeps the project moving toward delivery of a major health and recreation asset for Moorabool residents, including seniors programming and accessible aquatic options.
  • Dunnstown Master Plan: gives the community and stakeholders a structured opportunity to shape the reserve’s future infrastructure and use priorities.
• Next steps:
  • Indoor Aquatic facility:
    • Continue design work immediately after approval.
    • Obtain quantity surveyor costing once draft design options are developed, then report back to Council for next steps.
  • Dunnstown Recreation Reserve Master Plan:
    • Commence the four-week public exhibition period (dates not specified in the minutes text provided).
    • Collect feedback and bring the refined Master Plan back to Council for final consideration and adoption.

Community Impact

• All residents: Updated council delegations to the CEO and staff (S5/S6) change who can make certain decisions day-to-day, potentially speeding up approvals and service actions
• Bacchus Marsh residents and trail users: Measures to stop illegal vehicle access on the All Abilities Trial at Baldhill (new/updated gate lock, bollards/rocks, “no vehicle” signage, and planned turning-area reconstruction in Tramway Lane as part of the 2025/26 capital program)
• Bacchus Marsh residents: 30-day community consultation on renaming Lidgett Street Reserve to “Delwyn Leggatt Recreation Reserve,” which may affect signage, maps, and local identity
• Maddingley (MARC Stadium) residents and users: Indoor aquatic facility design progresses (budgeted $50m project total), which may lead to future construction impacts and expanded local aquatic services
• Dunnstown residents and reserve users: Four-week public exhibition of the Draft Dunnstown Recreation Reserve Master Plan, which could lead to staged upgrades over up to 10 years (subject to adoption and funding)
• Bacchus Marsh Public Hall users/community groups: Bacchus Marsh Public Hall Community Asset Committee ends 30 Nov 2025 and is replaced by a Council advisory committee; day-to-day management shifts fully to Council officers and banked committee funds are redirected to future site improvements

Other Notable Items

• Public question raised about unsafe illegal driving on Baldhill all-abilities trial track; Council outlined mitigation steps.
• Council endorsed submission opposing Western Renewables Link as fully overhead; sought amendments including partial undergrounding.
• Draft Recreation and Leisure Strategy 2025–2035 to go on four-week public exhibition; Volume 2 to be live/updated annually.
• Feature naming consultation: propose renaming Lidgett Street Reserve to “Delwyn Leggatt Recreation Reserve” (30 days).
• Indoor aquatic facility design progressing for MARC Stadium; budget increased to $50m total with added federal funding.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Meeting livestreaming (online recording/streaming of Council proceedings)
• Online community engagement platforms used for consultation (e.g., “Have Your Say” platform for surveys/feedback)
• Digital communications/media planned for public consultation (digital and print media for WRL EES exhibition)
• Online community survey/feedback mechanisms for Recreation and Leisure Strategy consultation
• Online portal referenced for community engagement (“Have Your Say Moorabool/Online Community Engagement Portal”)
• IT/governance infrastructure: publication of Instruments of Delegation on Council’s website (transparency measure)
• Delegation/authorisation frameworks for internal operations (Instruments of Delegation/Appointment/Authorisation—governance and compliance processes)

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Adopt revised Audit and Risk Advisory Committee Charter (four-year internal audit plan).
• Authorise WorkCover 2025/26 premium payment before 18 August for 5% discount.
• Approve draft Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025–2029 for public consultation.
• Adopt Customer Experience Strategy 2025–2027.
• Adopt Road Management Plan 2025–2029 and publish on Council website.
• Appoint community members and adopt Terms of Reference for Disability Access & Inclusion Advisory Committee.

Detailed Descriptions

Adopt revised Audit and Risk Advisory Committee Charter (four-year internal audit plan)

• Context: The Audit and Risk Advisory Committee Charter was last adopted in August 2020 and updated in October 2022. A review has been completed to align the Charter with current governance practices and internal audit planning.
• Details:
  • Council adopted the revised Audit and Risk Advisory Committee Charter (Attachment 1) at the Ordinary Council Meeting on 6 August 2025.
  • Key change: Clause 5.5.1 updated to change from a three-year to a four-year strategic internal audit plan.
  • Other updates:
    • Updated officer position title references to reflect the current organisational structure (including clause 4.1.5 relating to attendance requirements for the General Manager Customer & Corporate Services).
    • Minor administrative/formatting updates (e.g., standardising number formatting and updating “Audit and Risk Committee” references to “Audit and Risk Advisory Committee”).
  • Financial implications: None.
• Impact: Strengthens Council’s governance by improving alignment between the Committee’s Charter and the way internal audits are planned and delivered over a longer strategic horizon.
• Next steps:
  • Audit and Risk Advisory Committee members will be informed in August 2025 and provided with the updated document.
  • The updated Charter will also be reflected in future Audit and Risk Advisory Committee recruitment documentation when the next recruitment round occurs.

Authorise WorkCover 2025/26 premium payment before 18 August for 5% discount

• Context: WorkCover premiums have increased due to ongoing scheme modernisation and financial pressure on local government. Council is required to pay the WorkCover premium, with an opportunity to reduce cost through early payment.
• Details:
  • Council authorised payment of the WorkCover 2025/26 premium prior to 18 August 2025 to receive a 5% discount.
  • Premium figures provided in the report:
    • Estimated total account: $560,949.06 + GST
    • 5% discount value: $30,052.20
    • Alternative discount: 3% if paid by 1 October 2025
  • Premium change: 15% rise from the prior year, with an increase of $83,369 in real terms.
  • Resolution carried at the 6 August 2025 meeting (moved by Cr Rod Ward, seconded by Cr Tom Sullivan).
• Impact: Reduces Council’s operating costs for workers’ compensation by securing the available early-payment discount, despite the overall premium increase.
• Next steps:
  • People and Culture to coordinate payment before 18 August 2025.
  • No further community consultation is required (per report advice).

Approve draft Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025–2029 for public consultation

• Context: Under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008, Council must develop a Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan every four years. The current plan is in its final year, and the next plan is due in October 2025.
• Details:
  • Council approved the draft Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025–2029 for community consultation (Attachment 1).
  • Public feedback period:
    • From Thursday 7 September 2025 to Monday 25 September 2025 (approximately three weeks).
  • Consultation channels:
    • Plan released via the Moorabool Shire Council website
    • Community feedback invited during the exhibition period (Have Your Say approach referenced in the report).
  • Decision date: 6 August 2025 (moved by Cr Jarrod Bingham, seconded by Cr John Keogh).
  • Risk note: The report identifies a High risk if the plan is not adopted (legislated responsibility), and a Medium risk if negative feedback is received during consultation.
• Impact: Gives residents and service partners a formal opportunity to shape Council’s health and wellbeing priorities for the next four-year cycle.
• Next steps:
  • Collate feedback from 7–25 September 2025.
  • Bring a summary of feedback and proposed changes back to Council for consideration and final adoption (timing not specified in the minutes, but following consultation period).

Adopt Customer Experience Strategy 2025–2027

• Context: Council has identified future service delivery challenges (growing population, changing demographics, constrained resources, and rising customer expectations). A customer experience strategy is needed to guide consistent service delivery.
• Details:
  • Council adopted the Customer Experience Strategy 2025–2027 at the 6 August 2025 meeting.
  • Strategy adoption resolution: moved by Cr Rod Ward, seconded by Cr Steven Venditti-Taylor.
  • Consultation history (from the report):
    • Draft exhibited 2 April 2025 to 4 May 2025.
    • Three community submissions received; all complimented the strategy and no changes were proposed.
    • Staff consultation completed; only a clearer heading for an appendix was updated.
  • Strategy goal: deliver “a consistent, reliable, inclusive and easy experience of our services that meet customer needs.”
  • Financial resourcing: implementation supported through the Customer and Communications service unit budget.
• Impact: Provides a clear, organisation-wide approach to improving how residents experience Council services, supporting consistency and continuous improvement.
• Next steps:
  • Develop and implement a communications plan to promote the strategy internally and to the community.
  • Publish/promote the strategy via Council’s website, social media, and Customer Service desks once endorsed.

Adopt Road Management Plan 2025–2029 and publish on Council website

• Context: Council is required to review its Road Management Plan every four years in line with elections and legislative timing. The draft was publicly exhibited earlier in 2025.
• Details:
  • Council adopted the Road Management Plan 2025–2029 in accordance with Section 53 of the Road Management Act 2004.
  • Adoption date: 6 August 2025 (moved by Cr Moira Berry, seconded by Cr Sheila Freeman).
  • Public exhibition completed previously:
    • Draft exhibited 9 May 2025 to 6 June 2025
    • No submissions received.
  • Publishing requirement:
    • Council requested a copy of the adopted plan be placed on Council’s website.
  • Register review:
    • Periodic review of the Register of Public Roads and Paths to be undertaken as delegated to the General Manager Community Assets & Infrastructure.
• Impact: Improves transparency and risk management by confirming Council’s documented road maintenance and inspection standards for the 2025–2029 period.
• Next steps:
  • Upload/publish the adopted plan to the Council website in August 2025 (as noted in the communications plan section of the report).
  • Continue periodic review of the registers as delegated.

Appoint community members and adopt Terms of Reference for Disability Access & Inclusion Advisory Committee

• Context: Advisory Committees are appointed to align with each Council term (four years). Council undertook an Expression of Interest process to recruit community members for the Disability Access & Inclusion Advisory Committee and also reviewed/updated its Terms of Reference.
• Details:
  • Decision date: 6 August 2025 (moved by Cr Ally Munari, seconded by Cr Sheila Freeman).
  • Appointed community members (7):
    • Kristie Lynch
    • Betty Stojcevski
    • Emma Horan
    • Nicole Marshall
    • Kim Porter-Dennis
    • Michelle Ross
    • Leigh Marshall
  • Terms of Reference:
    • Council approved the Draft Disability Access & Inclusion Advisory Committee Terms of Reference (Attachment referenced as under separate cover).
  • Process undertaken:
    • Expression of Interest period: 5 February to 9 March 2025
    • Eight (8) nominations received; officers held phone discussions and individual meetings to assess suitability and connection to Moorabool Shire.
  • Administrative step:
    • Council approved the CEO to notify each newly confirmed member of their appointments.
• Impact: Ensures disability access and inclusion advice is grounded in community expertise and supports evidence-based Council decision-making.
• Next steps:
  • CEO to formally notify the seven appointed members (timing not specified, but immediately following the 6 August 2025 decision).
  • Committee operations to proceed under the adopted Terms of Reference for the new Council term.

Community Impact

• Residents (whole municipality): Adoption of the Road Management Plan 2025–2029 sets updated inspection frequencies, defect intervention levels, and maximum response times for road/footpath maintenance
• Residents (whole municipality): Updated road and path “registers” will reflect newly acquired roads/paths and revised road hierarchy classifications, affecting how maintenance priorities are applied
• Residents (whole municipality): Draft Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025–2029 will go on public exhibition (7–25 Sept 2025), allowing community feedback that may shape future local health and wellbeing priorities
• Residents (community health & wellbeing): Health and Wellbeing Advisory Committee will include two additional community representatives (via expression of interest), increasing direct community input into the Health and Wellbeing Plan
• Women and girls (sport & recreation users): Ongoing implementation of the Female Friendly Sport and Recreation Strategy will continue with Year Three actions, including further work on safer, more welcoming facilities and improved participation information
• People with disability and carers (whole municipality): Disability Access & Inclusion Advisory Committee membership and Terms of Reference are confirmed, strengthening advisory input into council decisions affecting disability access and inclusion

Other Notable Items

• Community consultation for the Draft Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025–2029 (Sep 7–25, 2025).
• Council Plan progress: 2 actions “off track” and 6 requiring monitoring as of 30 June 2025.
• Regional Bowls Facility: contract not awarded due to budget constraints; clubs chose not to proceed.
• Public question time discussion led to Cr Tom Sullivan leaving briefly, then returning.
• No public submissions received for the Draft Road Management Plan 2025–2029 during exhibition.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Meeting livestreaming (online recording of Council proceedings)
• Online community engagement platforms:
  • “Have your Say” portal used for community feedback (Health and Wellbeing Plan consultation)
  • Draft plans released via the Moorabool Shire Council website for public exhibition/feedback
• Online performance reporting:
  • Council Performance Dashboard (performance status uploaded for community access)
• Digital customer service/digital transformation planning:
  • Draft Customer Experience Strategy 2025–2027 (customer experience improvements; promoted via website/social media and customer service desks)
• IT/communications-related governance:
  • Audit and Risk Advisory Committee Charter update (governance/assurance planning; includes internal audit planning cycle update)
• Online recruitment/expressions of interest:
  • Expression of Interest process for advisory committee community representatives conducted online (Health and Wellbeing Advisory Committee)

Key Decisions & Outcomes

• Request Minister to appoint an independent panel for Planning Amendment C103moor Hopetoun Park North.
• Delegate negotiation and handling of late submissions for Amendment C103moor to Executive Manager.
• Request Minister to appoint an independent panel for Planning Amendment C085moor West Moorabool Heritage Study.
• Authorise Executive Manager to resolve submissions and refer late submissions for Amendment C085moor.
• Endorse draft submission opposing DEECA’s proposed PILOR methodology for energy storage systems.
• Appoint LBAC members and invite additional community/industry expertise as needed.

Detailed Descriptions

Request Minister to appoint an independent panel for Planning Amendment C103moor Hopetoun Park North

• Context: Council considered submissions received following the exhibition of Moorabool Planning Scheme Amendment C103moor (Hopetoun Park North) and determined unresolved matters should be heard independently.
• Details:
  • Council resolution (Ordinary Council Meeting, Wednesday 2 July 2025) requested the Minister for Planning establish an independent planning panel under s22 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987.
  • Amendment C103moor was exhibited 21 March to 4 May 2025 and attracted 32 submissions.
  • The amendment proposes to rezone approximately 62ha of farmland in Hopetoun Park for a master planned residential community of about 400 lots / 1,200 residents.
• Impact: Provides an independent public hearing process for submitters, improving procedural fairness and ensuring Council can make a final decision (adopt/adopt with changes/abandon) after receiving the Panel’s report.
• Next steps:
  • Ministerial appointment of the independent panel.
  • Panel hearing and report preparation.
  • Council to consider the Panel report before deciding whether to adopt the amendment (with or without changes) or abandon it.

Delegate negotiation and handling of late submissions for Amendment C103moor to Executive Manager

• Context: Council resolved it could not resolve all disputes through document changes alone and therefore delegated negotiation and late-submission handling to ensure matters are properly progressed before the Panel process.
• Details:
  • Council delegated authority to the Executive Manager Community Planning & Development (authoriser identified as Henry Bezuidenhout) to:
    • Negotiate with submitters on proposed changes to the exhibited Amendment documents to resolve matters in dispute between Council and submitters.
    • Consider any further late submissions received by Council in relation to Amendment C103moor and refer them to the independent planning panel.
  • The exhibition period for Amendment C103moor was 21 March to 4 May 2025; Council also noted that any late submissions would be referred to the Panel.
• Impact: Ensures late submissions are not ignored and that any potentially resolvable issues are attempted to be addressed before the Panel hearing, while preserving Panel jurisdiction over unresolved matters.
• Next steps:
  • Executive Manager to undertake submitter negotiations and manage late submissions.
  • Late submissions to be provided to the independent panel for consideration.

Request Minister to appoint an independent panel for Planning Amendment C085moor West Moorabool Heritage Study

• Context: Council reviewed submissions received for Amendment C085moor (implementing the West Moorabool Heritage Study Stage 2A Review) and determined unresolved issues require independent consideration.
• Details:
  • Council resolution (Ordinary Council Meeting, Wednesday 2 July 2025) requested the Minister for Planning establish an independent planning panel to consider submissions received in response to Amendment C085moor, under the Planning and Environment Act 1987.
  • Amendment C085moor was exhibited 13 March to 30 April 2025 and received 12 submissions.
  • The amendment applies the Heritage Overlay to 106 individual places and 7 heritage precincts across Ballan, Blackwood, Bungaree, Gordon, Lal Lal, Millbrook and Wallace (with related schedule/document updates).
• Impact: Protects heritage decision-making integrity by providing an independent hearing for affected landowners and stakeholders, improving transparency and legitimacy of the final outcome.
• Next steps:
  • Ministerial appointment of the independent panel.
  • Panel hearing and report preparation.
  • Council to consider the Panel report and decide whether to adopt the amendment (with or without changes) or abandon it.

Authorise Executive Manager to resolve submissions and refer late submissions for Amendment C085moor

• Context: Council authorised officer action to attempt resolution of submissions prior to the Panel process while ensuring late submissions are still considered by the Panel.
• Details:
  • Council authorised the Executive Manager Community Planning & Development (Henry Bezuidenhout) to:
    • Continue liaising with submitters to seek to resolve submissions prior to and during the independent planning panel process (before the amendment is reported back to Council).
    • Consider any further late submissions and refer them to the independent planning panel.
  • Amendment C085moor exhibition concluded 30 April 2025; Council also anticipated receipt of late submissions for Panel consideration.
• Impact: Supports early issue resolution where feasible, while maintaining due process by ensuring late submissions are formally considered by the independent panel.
• Next steps:
  • Executive Manager to liaise with submitters and manage late submissions.
  • Late submissions referred to the Panel ahead of (or during) the Panel process.

Endorse draft submission opposing DEECA’s proposed PILOR methodology for energy storage systems

• Context: DEECA released a May 2025 Discussion Paper proposing a new Payment in Lieu of Rates (PILOR) methodology for large-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), which Council considered would reduce local government revenue and increase complexity.
• Details:
  • Council considered the report at the Ordinary Council Meeting on 2 July 2025.
  • DEECA Discussion Paper released: May 2025.
  • Submission deadline: 30 June 2025 (Council’s draft submission was prepared for this deadline).
  • Council’s draft submission opposed the proposed methodology due to concerns including:
    • Potential significant reductions in local government revenue.
    • Increased administrative complexity.
    • Inconsistent treatment vs other state tax frameworks.
    • No clear requirement for community benefit under the new model.
    • Council not directly informed by DEECA of the release.
  • The report notes an example impact: local wind farms contribute $1.10M vs $2.94M annually under CIV-based rating (i.e., 38% of CIV-based revenue).
• Impact: Strengthens Moorabool’s advocacy position to protect council revenue and ensure equitable, consistent PILOR treatment for energy infrastructure.
• Next steps:
  • Council endorsed the approach and mandated further action via the CEO (per the resolution to provide further comments/submissions to DEECA).
  • CEO to submit finalised comments to DEECA and write to other affected councils to seek support.

Appoint LBAC members and invite additional community/industry expertise as needed

• Context: Council approved appointments to the Local Business Advisory Committee (LBAC) to provide advice on Moorabool Shire’s economic growth, employment opportunities, investment and business development.
• Details:
  • LBAC established: 2 December 2020.
  • Council resolution (Ordinary Council Meeting, 2 July 2025) appointed the following seven nominees:
    • Kristy Noakes (Maddingley) – Community member
    • Kate Sharkey (Bacchus Marsh) – Community member
    • Shane Zammit (Bacchus Marsh / Ballan) – Local business owner (Ballan Butcher)
    • Angela Candeloro (The Avenue / Bacchus Marsh) – Local business owner (Tripod Farms)
    • Cameron Jones (Parwan / Bacchus Marsh) – Local business owner (Parwan Protein and Tallow)
    • Gillian Stewart (Ballan) – Local business owner (Phoenix Park)
    • Belinda Dellios (The Avenue / Bacchus Marsh) – Local business owner (Fruits of Life)
  • Also appointed: President, Ballan & District Chamber of Commerce (invited per Terms of Reference; accepted).
  • Council also resolved to invite additional community and industry expertise to LBAC meetings as required.
• Impact: Ensures LBAC has relevant local business/community representation and the flexibility to draw on additional expertise to support committee objectives.
• Next steps:
  • LBAC members to be formally appointed and inducted (including confidentiality/pledge requirements as per risk controls).
  • LBAC Chair/administration to coordinate meeting invitations and any additional expert attendance as needed.

Community Impact

• Hopetoun Park residents (and nearby properties): Referral of Planning Scheme Amendment C103moor to an independent Planning Panel, with potential changes to rezoning/controls for a proposed master-planned residential development (about 400 lots / 1,200 residents) after a public hearing
• Hopetoun Park residents: Possible negotiation of amendment document changes with submitters (including late submissions) before the Panel process, affecting interface issues such as traffic/road safety, stormwater, bushfire access, and impacts on native habitat/fauna
• Ballan, Blackwood, Bungaree, Gordon, Lal Lal, Millbrook and Wallace property owners: Heritage Scheme Amendment C085moor progressed to an independent Planning Panel, which may apply (or adjust) Heritage Overlay controls to 113 places/precincts and change what development/works require permits
• Affected heritage property owners: Recommended technical corrections/removals/additions to heritage statements and citations (e.g., removal of one relocated dwelling and updates to certain heritage citations) that could alter the heritage constraints applied to specific addresses
• Moorabool Shire ratepayers (overall): Council endorsement of a submission opposing a new DEECA PILOR methodology for large battery energy storage systems, aiming to protect local government revenue and reduce administrative complexity impacts on council services
• Darley and Bacchus Marsh residents: Council will write to DEECA and seek a report back on managing kangaroo mobs accessing streets, which may lead to new or improved wildlife management actions affecting local safety and amenity

Other Notable Items

• Hopetoun Park North rezoning submissions raised opposition, native habitat loss, traffic and amenity concerns.
• Council to seek independent panels for both Hopetoun Park North (C103moor) and West Moorabool heritage (C085moor) unresolved submissions.
• Draft submission prepared opposing DEECA’s proposed PILOR methodology for Battery Energy Storage Systems.
• Urgent business: Council will write to DEECA about managing kangaroo mobs in Darley and Bacchus Marsh.
• LBAC member nominations announced via Expression of Interest, including Ballan & District Chamber of Commerce president.

Tech & Innovation Notes

• Meeting livestreaming / online participation: “the meeting is livestreamed” (Council Chambers and online attendance noted).
• Online public consultation platforms: amendment information available on Council’s “Have your say” website and the Department of Transport and Planning website; “C085moor Have Your Say” page referenced.
• Digital communications/social media: consultation updates via Council’s Facebook page and social media channels.
• Energy infrastructure / energy storage (tech-related infrastructure): Payment in Lieu of Rates (PILOR) scheme for large-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS); references to approved/proposed 200 MW BESS near Elaine Terminal Station.
• Smart/tech-adjacent infrastructure planning: “VicGrid Draft 2025 Victorian Transmission Line Briefing” mentioned in councillor briefings.
• Governance/IT-adjacent contract: Contract C0160 (Trade and Civil Services) discussed in councillor briefings (no explicit cybersecurity/IT content stated).