Advocacy Agenda 2026/27 - Tiered Priorities
Council unanimously endorsed a set of advocacy priorities for the next twelve months. Having a clear and well considered list of priorities ensures Council can effectively champion the needs and interests of the Latrobe community, particularly in the leadup to the November 2026 State Election.
The priorities include advocating for an Infrastructure Activation Fund, improving community safety through place-based CBD activation, and progressing major infrastructure projects such as the Moe Revitalisation Project Stage 3, the Traralgon Bypass, and the Inter-Township Trail Network.
For the full list of Council’s advocacy priorities and supporting information, please visit the Council Meeting Agenda on Council’s website or watch the Council Meeting recording on YouTube.
Latrobe City Submission to Yallourn Energy Industry Jobs Plan
Council unanimously endorsed a submission to the Net Zero Economic Authority’s Yallourn Energy Industry Jobs Plan (EIJP) consultation. An EIJP is a legislated framework that ensures workers at closing coal-fired power stations can access structured, enforceable transition support. The submission supports establishing an EIJP for Yallourn W, reflecting Council’s long-standing advocacy for coordinated workforce and community transition. Having experienced significant impacts from closures such as Hazelwood in 2017, Council reiterated the need for consistent standards, job‑matching support and prioritised investment to protect workers and strengthen regional resilience.
South East Traralgon Precinct Structure Plan - Next Steps
Council received an update on the South East Traralgon Precinct Structure Plan, noting that progress continues to be delayed due to outstanding responses from the Minister for Planning and the Minister for Energy and Resources. Councillors resolved to await the Minister for Energy and Resources’ advice before determining next steps, with a further progress report due by 31 March 2027. Landowners and interested parties will be informed of Council’s decision.
Council has been attempting to advance the Structure Plan since as early as 2016 and has been frustrated by numerous State requested delays. The Precinct is expected to unlock around 1,500 new residential lots.
Intention to Enter into Long Term Lease Agreements with the CFA
Council endorsed community consultation on its intention to enter into five new long‑term agreements with the Country Fire Authority (CFA) for Council‑owned sites. Following an internal review, the request for long‑term agreements is considered reasonable, given the essential emergency services the CFA provides and the fact that the land at each site is not required for current or known future Council community purposes.
Public notice will now be issued to inform the community of Council’s intention to enter into these long‑term lease agreements at the identified locations. Keep an eye on Council’s Have Your Say page for more information when the project is listed.
Request to Purchase Council Land - Heesom Cresent, Churchill
Council endorsed community consultation regarding the sale of a portion of land at 22A Heesom Crescent Churchill to the Victorian State Government for the Department of Education to develop an early learning centre. Any submissions received from the consultation will inform a further report that will be presented to Council for consideration.
Potential Road Closure - Old Melbourne Road, Morwell
Council endorsed community engagement on a proposal to close part of Old Melbourne Road and part of Toners Lane, both in Morwell, following a costly increase in the dumping of illegal rubbish and illegal activity at these locations. Community will be able to submit their responses to the proposal, which will inform a report to be presented to Council for consideration.
Additional Maintenance Allocation - Rural Recreation Reserves
Council agreed to transition maintenance responsibilities at five rural recreation reserves from volunteer committees to Council, following extensive consultation with groups that currently receive an Annual Maintenance Grant (AMG). Many rural reserves have traditionally been maintained by volunteers, with Council providing grants to support their work. The five reserves choosing to transition are George Bates Reserve, Yallourn North Recreation Reserve, Baillie Reserve (Tyers), Glengarry Recreation Reserve and Toongabbie Recreation Reserve.
This change acknowledges the long‑standing efforts of volunteers and aims to provide consistent, sustainable maintenance support across rural communities, allowing committees to focus on community activities rather than labour‑intensive upkeep.
Because not all reserves chose to proceed, overall program costs are lower than expected. The remaining funds will be redirected to establish a new CBD Footpath High Pressure Washing Program from 2026/27, improving the presentation of key public spaces.
Endorsement of Changes to the Council Support Package Projects
Council endorsed changes to the Council Support package which includes
increased the allocations for:
Stage 2 of the Streetscape Improvements at McDonald Street / Maryvale Road by $70,000 (ex GST);
the purchase of Additional Grounds Maintenance Equipment by $130,000 (excl GST);
The changes also include the allocation of $25,000 (excl GST) to deliver a second edition of the Moe Shred Fest event. More details to come about this event shortly.