Murrindindi Shire Council has released its draft Urban Tree Strategy and is inviting community feedback before the final version is adopted.
The long-term Strategy includes a 10-year action plan to guide how Council will protect and grow the Shire's urban forest to enhance canopy cover, biodiversity and community wellbeing in the face of climate and development pressures.
Key targets include increasing tree canopy cover in public areas of townships to 40 per cent, filling vacant street tree sites, diversifying tree species to withstand climate adversity, pests and diseases, and embedding sustainable tree management in all Council projects.
The Strategy is guided by three principles: Growth and Protection, Resilience, and Equity. It seeks to address disparities across townships, where canopy cover currently ranges from 50 per cent in Kinglake to just 9 per cent in Eildon.
Council is asking residents to share their views on these principles and the role of trees in shaping liveable, healthy towns. Feedback is open until Monday 13 October 2025, ahead of the Strategy being presented for adoption in November.
Visit Council's engagement platform The Loop to read the draft Strategy and provide feedback.
Murrindindi Shire Council's Sustainability and Assets Portfolio Councillor Sue Carpenter, said "Our street trees are a vital part of our communities, providing beautiful streetscapes, as well as shade, cooling, and mental health benefits. We want the Urban Tree Strategy to reflect the values of our residents. Your feedback will help us create a greener, more sustainable and naturally cooler Murrindindi for generations to come."
