Benalla Rural City Council is entering the final weeks of its Council Plan 2025–2029 Community Survey and is calling on all residents to share their thoughts and ideas to help shape the future of our region. The survey, a key part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to engaging with the community, will close at midnight Sunday 6 April 2025.
Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn highlighted the importance of community involvement in planning for the future, noting that the insights gathered through the survey will play a pivotal role in guiding future decision-making.
“Your feedback is invaluable in helping us understand the priorities and aspirations of our residents. This is your chance to have your voice heard and contribute to shaping the future of Benalla Rural City,” said Cr Hearn.
Council has already undertaken an expansive and inclusive consultation process to ensure the voices of residents are heard. To date, more than 300 community members have participated in engagement activities, ensuring diverse representation across the region. Over 70 in-person and virtual one-on-one consultations have been held with identified stakeholders.
Additionally, 13 sessions with local schools, community organisations, public events, and gatherings have provided opportunities for broad community input. The Council also hosted six community workshops focused on key themes, where participants discussed challenges and brainstormed potential solutions in areas such as Community, Business and Economy, Arts, Culture and Tourism, Environment and Health and Wellbeing. These discussions highlighted significant themes like social connection, economic resilience, volunteerism in arts and tourism, and sustainability in rural communities.
A community panel of 15 residents was recruited to ensure a range of perspectives. The panel has conducted three sessions to provide insights on local challenges and priorities. Furthermore, the Council has gathered over 210 survey responses to support the development of the Council Plan, offering quantifiable input on topics such as social cohesion, arts and culture, public health, and economic opportunities.
“By collaborating with the community through these various consultation efforts, we are ensuring that the Council Plan reflects the authentic needs and aspirations of our residents. Insights gained from these activities will help us develop strategies that are both actionable and inclusive,” said Cr Hearn.
The Council has also incorporated relevant regional data and research to support informed decision-making. Sources such as the ABS Census, Economy ID, and Know Your Council have been used to gather data on demographics, housing, education, health, and economic trends. Benchmarking studies with other councils facing similar demographic challenges have provided useful comparisons to guide planning.
“Everyone has a role to play in this important process, and we aim to ensure every perspective is considered,” Cr Hearn added. “The more people who take part, the better we can develop a Council Plan that truly represents our community’s needs.”
The survey is available online through the Benalla Council website at https://www.benalla.vic.gov.au/Your-Council/Have-Your-Say-Benalla For those who prefer hard copies, surveys are available at the Council’s Customer Service Centre, the Benalla Library, Waminda Community House, and the Benalla Seniors and Community Centre.
Surveys are quick and simple to complete, with all responses treated confidentially. Residents are encouraged to submit their feedback before the 6 April deadline to ensure their voices are included in shaping the future of Benalla.
For more information, call our Customer Service Centre on 03 5760 2600.