Decade-long financial plan aims to future proof City

A NEW financial plan (2025–2035) aiming to deliver services and infrastructure to a growing, diverse community has been adopted by the City of Greater Bendigo (CGOB).

The City uses a financial model to forecast and monitor a 10-year projection of how it aims to fund the actions in the newly adopted council plan to achieve its community vision.

The vision is to celebrate and respect residents, to be welcoming, sustainable and flourishing, while working with First Nations communities and boosting heritage.

The financial plan forms part of the COGB’s Integrated Strategic Planning Framework, which connects long-term aspirations (community vision), medium-term goals (council plan), and short-term actions (annual budget), with progress tracked through the annual report.

The plan was adopted at a recent council meeting.

Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said the document was essential for ensuring financial sustainability in the face of growing challenges.

“Council is committed to operating in a financially sustainable way for the benefit of the whole community,” she said.

“With our population forecast to reach around 170,000 by 2046, we must take a disciplined approach to funding existing services and infrastructure, while planning for new initiatives to meet future needs.

“The plan provides a roadmap for maintaining resilience and delivering high-quality services and infrastructure.

“Achieving financial sustainability means making tough decisions about the role of local government in delivering services and maintaining assets. It’s important that both council and the community understand that some services may need to change over the life of this plan.

“This plan ensures we remain financially resilient while continuing to support a vibrant, inclusive and future-ready Greater Bendigo.”

More information is available on the COGB website.