At its June Council Meeting Latrobe City Council has endorsed a new Advocacy Strategy to guide its engagement with the Victorian State Government.
The strategy outlines a coordinated and strategic approach to advance Council's priority projects, ensuring strong, consistent messaging and effective collaboration with Ministers, local Members of Parliament, Shadow Ministers and key stakeholders.
A central feature of the strategy is a planned Council delegation to State Parliament this month, where Councillors and officers will advocate for critical local initiatives. Engagements will be complemented by roundtable discussions and advocacy events, bringing together key partners to present a united voice on shared regional priorities.
Mayor of Latrobe City, Councillor Dale Harriman, said the strategy was about delivering outcomes that matter most to the community.
"This Advocacy Strategy positions Council to proactively pursue funding and policy support for the projects that will have the biggest impact on our region's future," the Mayor said.
"Whether it's economic diversification, education, infrastructure or regional connectivity, we'll be working closely with government to champion the issues that matter most to Latrobe City."
The strategy supports the 2025/26 Advocacy Agenda adopted by Council, which includes major priorities such as Latrobe's New Energy Future, Victorian Aerospace Technology Precinct, Traralgon Bypass, Residential Development Precincts and Moe Revitalisation - Stage 3 Infrastructure Transformation.
The Mayor said Council would continue to monitor outcomes and adapt its approach to ensure the best return on investment for the community.
"We know the best results come when we advocate as one, with the support of our community, partners and regional stakeholders. This strategy ensures our voice is heard and our message is clear: Latrobe is ready for investment, innovation and growth.
"This is not just about meetings and conversations. It's about securing real investment and creating opportunities that benefit Latrobe now and into the future."
Officers will monitor participation and outcomes to ensure the strategy delivers a strong return on investment.
Councils Advocacy Agenda 2025-2026 can be viewed at https://www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/Council/Advocacy_and_Transition/Advocating_for_our_Community
