A bold new Bendigo City Centre Action Plan 2026-2029 has been adopted by Council, setting a clear path to transform the city centre into a more vibrant, accessible and investment ready destination.
The three-year plan features targeted actions to boost economic activity and enhance the overall experience for residents and visitors. This is a highly collaborative plan with the City engaging closely with landlords, agents, and businesses.
The Bendigo City Centre Action Plan 2026-2029 brings together all city precincts to work together to achieve a high performing revitalised Bendigo city centre. It is informed by a Retail and Hospitality Gap Analysis, economic modelling and an Investment Attraction Plan developed by local firm REMPLAN.
The city centre is an important regional hub that serves a dual role as the civic and economic heart of Greater Bendigo, and as a key regional destination for a wider catchment area. Around 18,000 people work in the city centre and around three million visitors come to Greater Bendigo each year.
In collaboration with key stakeholders, including landlords, real estate agents and businesses, the action plan focuses on five areas and looks to:
Secure anchor tenants and major projects:
- Attract national retailers, high-quality hospitality operators, and experience-based businesses
- Identify priority sites for anchor developments
Activate vacant and underutilised spaces:
- Collaborate closely with landlords and agents
- Target short-term leases, curated pop-ups, and flexible tenancy models
- Improve shopfront presentation and trial pilot programs
- Expand the use of Bendigo Town Hall to inject activity into the precinct
Improve access, safety, and parking:
- Reopen Hargreaves Street Mall to traffic with a one-way, 10km/h shared zone from Mitchell Street to Williamson Street
- Contribute to the Victorian Government's Bus Network Review for Greater Bendigo in mid-2026 (the City is not responsible for public transport services)
- Enhancing the comfort, safety and clarity of walking and cycling routes to encourage greater uptake of active travel for residents, workers, and families
- Improve wayfinding signs and ensure parking is accessible, safe, and well-lit
Support business diversity and the night-time economy:
- Address gaps in the evening economy and encourage extended trading
- Attract businesses offering social, creative, and cultural experiences
- Cater to younger audiences and creative professionals
Enhance the public realm and events:
- Deliver ongoing events and activations such as live performances and the Moonlight Market (road will be closed for major events in the Mall)
- Improve amenity, comfort, and perceptions of safety (continue to work closely with Victoria Police and housing agencies)
- Strengthen the city centre's identity and investment appeal
Mayor Cr Thomas Prince said the Bendigo City Centre Action Plan provided a fresh direction for the city centre.
"We've heard strong community support for a vibrant city centre that delivers shopping, jobs, culture and tourism," Cr Prince said.
"While the focus has been on reopening the Mall to vehicles, it is just one action in a broader plan. The plan outlines 26 actions and recognises there is no single solution. It is not something the City can deliver alone, as it does not own or control private properties.
"Success will depend on strong partnerships and support from landlords, agents, businesses, and a community that actively backs local traders in our city centre precincts.
"The goal is simple: more people, more often, building confidence and reinforcing Bendigo as open for business and investment.
"To achieve this, we need a compelling mix of retail, hospitality and entertainment, and a city centre that attracts people day and night. Targeted national retailers in strategic areas in the city centre can help shift perceptions and boost confidence, supporting local businesses alongside them who already provide a great service in the community.
"Activating underused sites and growing the evening economy will be key to creating a lively, welcoming destination."
Events and arts will continue to energise the city centre. Always Live Victorian Vibes is taking place this Saturday May 30 with Matt Corby, King Stingray, Queenie, and local artist Emma Gleeson performing at different locations in the city centre.
Bendigo Town Hall will host the Bendigo Art Gallery's off-site exhibitions in 2026 and 2027, with the first free season opening in August. Planning is underway for more events and public artworks in the city centre.
