Greater Shepparton City Council endorsed the Toolamba and Old Toolamba Structure Plan 2026 at its April 2026 Council Meeting, setting a long‑term strategic framework for future growth and development of Toolamba and Old Toolamba.
The Structure Plan was largely funded by the Department of Transport and Planning through the Regional Planning Hub program. It prioritises staged housing growth, infrastructure capacity, risk management, environmental protection and the preservation of Toolamba's township character.
The endorsement follows the abandonment of previous planning scheme amendments for the area, with the Structure Plan directly responding to the feedback received from an independent Planning Panel. The Structure Plan now includes findings and updated technical assessments, including flood, bushfire and ecological studies.
The Structure Plan outlines key directions for future growth, including prioritising growth in the west and south of Toolamba, rather than Old Toolamba, which remains restricted by flood risk, environmental considerations and bushfire management requirements.
Any future development will be required to be supported by development‑led sewerage infrastructure, which has been identified as essential to support successful growth outcomes.
Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said the Structure Plan supports long‑term, evidence‑based planning for Toolamba.
"This is a smart, sensible and practical way to plan and support future growth in Toolamba. We know the area has been identified for potential growth for a number of years," he said.
"This Structure Plan provides clear direction for how that growth could occur in the future, while ensuring safety, infrastructure capacity and the character of Toolamba are carefully managed."
Council noted the strong level of community input received during the development of the Structure Plan, including multiple information sessions, community drop‑in sessions and public submissions throughout 2024 and 2025.
Cr Paul Wickham, Goulburn River Ward representative, acknowledged the strong community interest throughout the consultation process.
"Thank you to the community for their interest in this Plan. Your feedback has helped shape this important document, which will guide future planning in Toolamba," he said.
Council will now assist with the preparation and exhibition of a planning scheme amendment to implement the Structure Plan into the Greater Shepparton Planning Scheme.
