Murrindindi Shire Council has officially launched its advocacy campaign ahead of the 2026 Victorian State Election, calling on all political parties and candidates to commit to backing rural communities and investing in Murrindindi's future.
The campaign, titled Backing Murrindindi, outlines seven priorities designed to support thriving communities, stronger local economies and a more resilient future for Murrindindi Shire.
The campaign brings together well-established community priorities into a clear and unified case for State investment. It comes at a critical time for Murrindindi, following years of increasing pressure on rural communities and the significant impacts of the January 2026 bushfires.
Mayor Damien Gallagher said the campaign was about ensuring Murrindindi's challenges, opportunities and future needs were firmly on the agenda during the election campaign.
"Backing Murrindindi is about making sure rural communities are not overlooked when major funding and policy decisions are made," Cr Gallagher said.
"Our communities continue to face significant challenges, from disaster recovery and ageing infrastructure through to financial sustainability, housing pressures and access to services.
"We are asking every candidate and party to make a clear commitment - back these priorities, fund them, and recognise the scale of need in rural Victoria. This is not about new ideas, it's about delivering what our community has been calling for, clearly and consistently, for years".
"We are not asking for special treatment. We are asking for fair investment that reflects the realities of rural Victoria and the scale of the challenges our communities are managing."
The campaign outlines the following advocacy priorities:
- Fair funding for rural councils
- Alexandra Relief and Community Centre Redevelopment
- Lake Eildon Master Plan Implementation
- Rural Road Rehabilitation Program
- Place Based Youth Services
- Kinglake Sewer and Water Infrastructure Planning
- Yea Oval Reconstruction
Cr Gallagher said the priorities had been shaped by clear evidence, strategic planning and direct community need.
"These are practical projects and reforms that will support recovery, strengthen resilience and help secure the future of communities across Murrindindi," he said.
"Now is the time for candidates and parties contesting the State elections to step up and commit, but it is also time for our community to expect more, ask the questions and back the future we want.
"When our community speaks with one voice, it strengthens our case and makes it harder to ignore."
The campaign includes a dedicated advocacy booklet highlighting key community projects, supporting information and a message from the Mayor.
Council is encouraging residents, businesses, community groups and local organisations to support the campaign by engaging with candidates, asking for commitment and reinforcing the case for investment in Murrindindi.
To learn more about the Backing Murrindindi campaign and view the advocacy booklet, visit our Backing Murrindindi - Victorian State Election 2026 page.
