Blueprint gets the tick of approval

THE City of Mount Gambier 2024-2028 Strategic Plan was endorsed by elected members at November’s Council meeting. Reflecting the aspirations, priorities and values articulated in the Community Vision – Mount Gambier 2035, the plan will guide Council’s work to deliver on its vision and purpose throughout the next four years.

Following the adoption of the draft plan at the October Council meeting, a community consultation process was undertaken between 16 October 2024 and 7 November 2024, concluding an extensive engagement program that commenced with the Mount Gambier 2035 initiative in November 2023.

“The Mount Gambier 2035 project team sought feedback from the community about what we want our future to look like. Resulting in a bold and impressive vision, we have worked hard to ensure the aspirations and values expressed are reflected in what Council is committing to achieve over the next four years,” Mayor Lynette Martin said.

The 2024-2028 Strategic Plan identifies 21 strategic measures and indicators, along with six key strategic priorities including:

Environment and Liveability,

Learning and Innovation,

Infrastructure and Services,

Economic and Business Growth,

A Vibrant Community, and

Excellence in Leadership and Governance.

“This Strategic Plan charts a path to achieve our long-term goals, focusing on the environment and liveability, fostering learning and innovation, enhancing infrastructure and services, stimulating economic and business growth and building a vibrant community—all guided by responsible leadership and governance,” Mayor Martin said.

“Each strategic priority outlines what success looks like, what the community can expect from Council over the next four years, the key projects we will undertake and the supporting strategies and plans that will guide us there.”

The plan has been developed in accordance with the requirements of the Local Government Act 1999 and considers Council’s Long-Term Financial Plan to ensure there is capacity to deliver on the outcomes and objectives included.

“Now that the plan is endorsed it will become the overarching strategic document that informs Council’s ongoing planning and reporting, in particular the development of our next Annual Business Plan and Budget,” CEO Sarah Philpott said.

The plan outlines Council’s role in the various projects as a deliverer, partner and advocate.

“In developing this plan, we have considered our diverse and complex roles and the tools we can use to drive and influence change. The plan therefore reflects our commitment to working with others to shape the future of our city,” Ms Philpott said.

“We will continue to build strong partnerships to advocate and leverage our relationships to seek co-investment, grants and contributions for the benefit of our community.”

Reporting against the Strategic Plan will be conducted annually and published within Council’s Annual Report.

“This Strategic Plan is more than a roadmap; it is our commitment to Mount Gambier’s future through bold decision-making and thoughtful choices that align with our community’s vision – ensuring our community is an integral part and ultimately enhancing the lives of all who call our city home,” Mayor Martin said.

Council’s vision:

Erupting with Potential: Embracing Our Past, Enhancing our Strengths and Shaping an Exciting Future.

Embracing our volcanic past, the City of Mount Gambier partners with our communities to build on the strength of our landscape and our connections to shape a sustainable future. Together, we elevate the city’s prominence, ignite new opportunities and ensure a thriving, liveable environment for everyone.