Restructure aims for better visits

AN organisational realignment is being proposed for City of Ballarat staff with the aim at strengthening the municipality’s visitor and events offerings.

The move was announced on Tuesday via a statement from CEO Evan King who said the changes would be to prepare for the expected tourism impact of the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

“This is particularly important with Ballarat being a host hub for the Victorian 2026 Commonwealth Games, the biggest sporting event in Ballarat’s history,” he said.

“The Commonwealth Games presents opportunities to strengthen Ballarat’s visitor economy, our capacity to host large numbers of visitors and major events, and to expand our skilled workforce.

“Prior to making a final decision on the proposed changes, the City of Ballarat is inviting staff to provide comments and suggestions on the proposed realignment.”

The restructuring would include the establishment of an “Economy, Experience and Commonwealth Games” directorate aimed at combining the delivery of Ballarat’s tourism, arts, events and attractions together.

The municipality last saw a restructuring in late 2021 with the aim of better delivering corporate services, and overall development on community, infrastructure, growth areas, and the environment.

The outcome for the proposed restructuring is set to be announced on Monday, 20 February.