Cardinia Shire Council has set a bold vision for the future with the adoption of its Advocacy Agenda 2025–29 to drive Council's advocacy efforts in the lead up to the 2026 State election and beyond.
The Advocacy Agenda is anchored by five priority projects across the shire that will headline Council's 2026 Victorian State election campaign – Cardinia Life regional basketball and gymnastics stadium redevelopment, Lang Lang truck bypass, strategic road sealing package, public transport package, and parks and open space package.
These key priorities, along with 13 additional initiatives, will underpin proactive advocacy opportunities over the next four years, shaping Council's Federal Budget submission, strengthening the advocacy prospectus, and driving engagement with Members of Parliament, election candidates and key stakeholders to secure vital funding and support.
Cardinia Shire Deputy Mayor Cr Liz Roberts said Council remains committed to advocating for what the Cardinia Shire community needs.
"As one of Victoria's fastest growing local government areas with a population that is expected to grow by 40,000 over the next 10 years, it's vital that we continue to seek support and investment from other levels of government for what our community needs and deserves," Deputy Mayor Roberts said.
"Our key priorities are projects that will support the growth of our community, and will address a number of critical needs across the shire.
"We need the support of other levels of government to make these projects a reality and make a positive difference to the lives of people across the shire."
Overview of priority projects:
- Cardinia Life regional basketball and gymnastics stadium redevelopment: co-investment from the State and Federal governments is sought to deliver the $60 million stage one redevelopment through an equal three-way funding partnership.
- Lang Lang truck bypass: $57 million in funding is needed for a dedicated bypass for heavy vehicles that connects South Gippsland's extractive industries to the South Gippsland Highway.
- Strategic road sealing package: co-investment from the State and Federal governments is required to seal priority unsealed roads across the shire to improve emergency access, community safety, and climate resilience.
- Public transport package: Council is advocating for improved bus services and public transport connections across Cardinia Shire to reduce car dependency, connect isolated communities to essential services and make it easier for people to commute to work.
- Parks and open space package: co-investment from the State and Federal governments is needed to deliver three critical open space projects that provide safe, inclusive recreation opportunities for young people and families across Cardinia Shire's growth corridor.
- Officer District Park: $7 million to deliver stage two.
- PB Ronald Reserve, Pakenham: $10 million for stage one.
- McMullen Recreation Reserve, Officer: $10 million.
For a full list of advocacy priorities, please visit: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/advocacy
