The City of Boroondara has passed a bold new Climate Action Implementation Plan that marks a major shift in Council's climate response - moving beyond a focus on Council's own operations and squarely toward the 98% of emissions generated across the wider community.
Backed by a quadrupled investment of $3.9 million in 2025-26 (rising to $4m in 2026-27), the plan sets out targeted, practical steps to help Boroondara residents cut emissions, lower energy bills and adapt to a changing climate. The plan was guided by the Climate Advisory Group in collaboration with external experts and community groups.
Mayor of Boroondara, Cr Sophie Torney, said the Implementation Plan responds directly to what the community has consistently called for - meaningful action on climate.
"This plan reflects what our community has told us: they want action on climate change," said Mayor Sophie Torney.
"It's smart, focused action that removes barriers and supports residents to take the next steps - from expanding public EV charging to supporting households to electrify or make their homes more energy efficient. This is about making the transition easier, fairer and more accessible to everyone."
"Most exciting is the work now underway to explore financial support for residents making the switch and making their homes more energy efficient. That will be the real game-changer, not just for emissions, but for equity."
Key initiatives in the new Implementation Plan include:
- exploring financial support for residential electrification in Boroondara
- developing an energy-saving program for those living in apartments, renters and low-income earners
- expanding the network of public electric vehicle charging stations across popular locations in Boroondara
- offering information and workshops on cost-effective, energy-saving measures for households.
- transitioning Council's vehicle fleet to electric or hybrid models
- collaborating with local volunteers and community groups to deliver environmental programs and events
- tracking and publishing emissions data from both Council operations and the wider community.
"Local government is uniquely placed to lead this work. We're close to the community, trusted and able to meet people where they are. This plan reflects a major shift on Boroondara. It's community centric, strategic and targeted" Cr Torney said.
"This plan is about supporting that journey and ensuring Council plays its part in creating a cleaner, greener future for Boroondara."
Background
The Boroondara community has been clear that they want Council to take action on climate change. This was captured in the extensive community consultations resulting in the Boroondara Community Plan 2021-31 and the new Boroondara Community Plan 2025-35 that'll be released later this year. The City of Boroondara declared a climate emergency in 2021.
This next phase of work builds on what was delivered during the first 4 years of Boroondara's Climate Action Plan. Achievements to date include:
- installation of 4 public fast electric vehicle chargers
- solar panel installations on over 40 Council buildings
- 100% renewable electricity supply across all Council operations
- development of the Tree Canopy and Urban Biodiversity strategies
- over 12,000 attendees at sustainability education sessions
- hosting the annual Sustainable Living Festival
- establishing a partnership with Electrify Boroondara to support local electrification efforts.
