Council has formally endorsed its key advocacy priorities at this week's Council Meeting, setting the direction for future engagement with State and Federal governments.
The endorsed priorities focus on delivering significant infrastructure upgrades, improvements to community sporting facilities, and changes to key legislation. Many of these initiatives fall outside Council's direct responsibility and will require financial and strategic support from other levels of government.
Key advocacy priorities include:
- Upgrading the Greensborough Bypass / Diamond Creek Road roundabout
- Installing a pedestrian crossing over the Hurstbridge train line at Coolabah Reserve, Eltham North
- Undertaking a comprehensive bus service review, including proposed extensions into rural areas and a new route connecting Diamond Creek and Mernda train stations
- Ensuring critical improvements are included in the Yan Yean Road upgrade, such as:
- Sealing of Eisemans, DeFredericks and Hacketts roads in Yarrambat
- Installation of virtual fencing to protect local wildlife
- Preservation of six significant River Red Gums near the Bridge Inn Road intersection
- Extending the Plenty River Trail in Greensborough to connect with the Diamond Creek Trail in Eltham North
In addition to these major projects, a further 23 electorate-based projects have been identified, many involving upgrades to local sporting facilities. Council will collaborate with local MPs to explore funding opportunities for these initiatives.
Council is also working with other agencies to advocate on broader issues impacting multiple municipalities, including:
- Pausing the rollout of the glass kerbside collection service
- Abandoning the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund
Further advocacy efforts will focus on the ongoing need for:
- Improved access to mental health and family violence support services
- Enhanced funding for bushfire preparedness
- Protection of the Green Wedge and local environment
Council's advocacy work is vital in securing funding and support for initiatives that benefit the whole community.
These priorities reflect what our community has told us is important, safer roads, better public transport, well-maintained sporting facilities, and strong environmental protections.
We will continue to advocate strongly and work in partnership with other levels of government to deliver these much-needed projects.
Council will provide regular updates to the community on progress in the advocacy space.
