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Wellington and South Gippsland Shire Councils are asking for community feedback to help plan for anticipated growth across the two regions.
A short, three-question survey will run from 30 October to 30 November 2026. It asks people to identify the region’s biggest challenges and opportunities The feedback will help to inform development of a Wellington and South Gippsland Energy Readiness Plan.
The community can also meet the project team at local events in November and early December. These informal pop-ups will give people a chance to ask questions and share their views on future growth.
Planning for future growth
The Wellington and South Gippsland Energy Readiness Plan will help Councils understand how the region could change as energy and other major projects are developed.
It will look at what future growth could mean for local communities. This includes housing, jobs, roads, infrastructure, services and community facilities.
This major planning project is funded by the Federal Government under the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program (rPPP).
The Energy Readiness Plan is being prepared by Councils with support from specialist consulting teams Cushman & Wakefield and Cogency Australia.
Wellington Shire Council Mayor Cr Cindy Madeley said early planning was important for the region:
“Change is already happening across our region. We need to understand what this could mean for our communities and plan for the future.
“Local people know their towns and communities best. Their views can help us understand what matters most and where we need to focus our efforts.
“I encourage everyone to complete the short survey. It is an easy way to share your thoughts and help inform the next stage of the Energy Readiness Plan.”
South Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Cr Nathan Hearsey said community input would help identify local priorities:
“We want to make sure our region is ready for future growth. This means understanding the challenges we may face and the opportunities we could create.
“We also need to understand what people value about their communities and what they want to protect as change takes place.
“I encourage residents, businesses and community groups to take part in the survey. Your feedback will help us build a clearer picture of what matters across Wellington and South Gippsland.”
Listening to the community
Project Manager Chris Wightman said the Energy Readiness Plan is still in its early stages.
“During September and October, the project team held over 40 detailed interviews with community groups, government agencies, Council teams and major project proponents. They explored local concerns, community priorities and opportunities for the region.
“The team is also reviewing data and research. Together, this work will help identify the main issues and opportunities that Councils need to consider.
The November survey and pop-up events will give the wider community a chance to contribute. The project team is keeping these activities simple, recognising that people face frequent consultation requests.
Feedback from stakeholders and the community will help prepare an initial Issues and Opportunities Report. The report is expected to be presented to both Councils in early 2027.
How to get involved
Meet the project team
The team will attend the following community events:
People can stop by to learn about the project, ask questions and share their views.