Swan Hill Rural City Council has been recognised as one of Victoria's top-performing councils, taking home multiple honours at last night's LGPro Awards of Excellence.
Council was a finalist in six categories, winning Service Delivery for its Development Advisory Service and Community Partnerships for its Leading Housing Challenges Together initiative.
Council also received high commendations in Innovative Leadership for the long-running Tower Hill Estate initiative, and in Community Assets and Infrastructure over $5 million for the development of two significant new community buildings - the Art Gallery of Swan Hill and the Swan Hill Tourism and Cultural Experience Centre.
Council's CEO, Scott Barber said the recognition reflected Council's strong focus on collaboration, innovation and delivering real outcomes for the community.
"To be recognised across six categories at the LGPro Awards of Excellence is an outstanding result for our Council and a real credit to our staff, Councillors and partners.
"Winning both the Service Delivery and Community Partnerships categories reflects the strength of our work in responding to one of the biggest challenges facing our region - housing," Mr Barber said.
Mr Barber said Council's Development Advisory Service had transformed the way Council works with applicants and industry.
"This initiative is about doing things differently - providing early, expert advice and working collaboratively to improve application quality, reduce delays and ultimately increase housing supply.
"Importantly, it has helped build trust, confidence and stronger relationships between Council and the development sector," he added.
Council's Leading Housing Challenges Together initiative was recognised for bringing the community together to tackle housing shortages through genuine collaboration.
"Housing is about people - making sure essential workers, families and new residents can find a place in our community.
"Through our Housing Summit and the Housing Action Greater Swan Hill Committee, we've seen what can be achieved when local government, industry, community organisations and agencies come together with a shared commitment," he said.
Mr Barber said the high commendation for Tower Hill Estate highlighted Council's long-term vision and leadership in delivering housing outcomes.
"Tower Hill Estate is the result of more than 20 years of planning, investment and commitment. It demonstrates the important role local government can play in leading development and supporting sustainable community growth," Mr Barber said.
Council's major investment in community infrastructure was also recognised, with a high commendation for the delivery of the Art Gallery of Swan Hill and the Swan Hill Tourism and Cultural Experience Centre within the region's tourism precinct.
These projects, delivered as part of the Our River Our Region program, have created vibrant, accessible spaces that celebrate local history, arts and culture while enhancing the visitor experience.
"These projects weren't without their challenges, but they demonstrate what can be achieved through strong partnerships, community input and a shared vision.
"They are more than buildings - they are places where people can connect, learn and experience the stories of our region," he added.
Mr Barber said the awards recognised the collective effort of Council staff, partners and the broader community.
"These awards belong to everyone who has contributed - our teams, our partners and our community. We are proud of what has been achieved and remain committed to building a stronger future for our communities," he concluded.
The LGPro Awards of Excellence celebrate outstanding achievement and innovation across local government in Victoria.
