Council updates advocacy priorities

THE Surf Coast Shire’s latest version of its advocacy priorities focuses on environmental leadership, and local initiatives from the community that enhance township character.

Adopted by the council last month, the priorities are categorised across three tiers – Strategic, Major and Standard (from highest to lowest) – and are also linked to one of the seven themes in the Council Plan, which is intended to align them with community goals.

They now include investigating the health of the Anglesea River, Karaaf Wetlands rehabilitation, strengthening planning controls to address climate change, and partnering with the community for major local projects including the Winchelsea Arboretum Trail project.

A new addition to the Strategic tier is support for partners looking to deliver a business case about recycled water use in the Thompson Valley.

The council is also calling for reforms to address the national housing crisis, including provision of more social and affordable housing and seasonal worker accommodation.

The advocacy priorities are clear signposts for what the Surf Coast Shire will be pushing state candidates from all parties to support in the lead-up to the November 26 poll.

“The council is constantly seeking to advocate with other levels of government in areas including project funding, policy change or partnerships,” shire mayor Libby Stapleton said.

“This latest refresh of our priorities brings in some really critical objectives such as actions around climate change and seeking funding for key local projects.

“We know from the responses which shaped our Council Plan that taking action in these areas is of major importance to our community.

“Improving the health of Torquay’s Karaaf Wetlands is also a high priority with strong community interest.

“Our advocacy priorities cover many important topics and the coming months will be critically important for us as we speak to members of parliament and candidates leading into the November state election.”

The council says it will continue to deliver actions to attract funding and achieve policy shifts to help realise adopted priorities, and it will engage with parliamentarians and candidates, pursue grant opportunities and campaign throughout the year to help achieve the council’s goals.

To read the full list, head to surfcoast.vic.gov.au.