City seeks views on managing assets

THE City of Greater Geelong council has endorsed the release of the draft Asset Plan 2025-2035, which outlines how to manage the municipality’s more than $6 billion asset portfolio over the next 10 years.

The draft Asset Plan, released alongside the draft Long Term Financial Plan, provides a framework to guide how the city maintains, renews and invests in more than 3,300km of roads, 2,400km of footpaths, 150,000 drainage assets, and more than 850 buildings and 200 hectares of open space.

It supports the city’s long-term vision and aligns with the Council Plan to ensure assets remain safe, functional, and financially sustainable as the municipality grows – the draft plan suggests the population will hit 387,900 by 2036 – and evolves.

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the Asset Plan was a vital tool in maintaining service standards and preparing for the future.

“With a growing population and increasing demands on our infrastructure, it is essential that we manage our assets responsibly and transparently.

“The Asset Plan shows how we intend to do that over the next decade, and we are inviting the community to have their say.”

Cr Andrew Katos encouraged residents to review the draft and provide feedback.

“Our roads, buildings, parks and drainage systems are essential to everyday life in Greater Geelong,” Cr Katos said.

“This plan outlines how we will maintain and improve these assets in a way that is fair, strategic and financially sound.

“Community input will help ensure the Asset Plan reflects the priorities of the people who use these assets every day.”

Targets within the draft

Plan include:

Maintaining asset health above 65 per cent across all asset classes

Keeping assets in poor condition below 6 per cent, and

Achieving an asset renewal ratio of at least 85 per cent.

Community input will be considered in shaping the final plan, which will be presented to the council for adoption at its October meeting.

To read the Draft Asset Plan and provide feedback before 5pm on August 24, head to yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/draft-asset-plan-2025-2035