East Gippsland's public land is under growing pressure, and East Gippsland Shire Council, is calling for more investment to meet management requirements, ahead of the 2026 Victorian State Election.
Council is urging all major parties and candidates contesting the 2026 Victorian State Election to commit to improved public land management across the region, saying better coordination and investment would deliver stronger environmental, economic and community outcomes.
In East Gippsland, public land - which makes up around 83 per cent of the shire's 21,000 square kilometres - is under increasing pressure from pest animals, weeds, extreme weather events and growing recreational use, alongside long-term underinvestment.
Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said public land is fundamental to the region's identity and economy.
"Public land is central to East Gippsland, but it is also under real and growing pressure," Cr Ashworth said.
"When it is not managed well, the impacts are felt across the whole community - on farms, in towns and in our natural environment."
Council is advocating for increased investment to enable improved locally delivered land management, arguing that on-ground teams are best placed to respond quickly and effectively.
"Local delivery is essential," Cr Ashworth said. "We need consistent, practical management of pests, weeds and environmental risks across the region."
The advocacy includes calls for greater transparency from the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, including clearer reporting on environmental outcomes, employment and community benefits.
Council is also seeking a local implementation plan for East Gippsland, improved coordination with landholders, and sustained investment in pest and weed control, habitat protection and visitor infrastructure.
"Our public land should be delivering real results - healthier ecosystems, better visitor experiences and stronger local jobs," Cr Ashworth said.
Council says improved land management is also critical to supporting nature-based tourism, with investment needed in tracks, campgrounds and visitor facilities.
"With the right investment, we can protect what makes this region special and strengthen opportunities for tourism and local business," Cr Ashworth said.
Council's advocacy package in the lead up to the Victorian government election includes priority investments in roads, health, housing, flood and drainage infrastructure, sporting facilities, emergency services, forestry transition and public land management, along with reform of the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund levy.
In addition to these priorities, Council will also continue advocating on the range of projects and programs that matter to East Gippsland communities, as outlined in the East Gippsland Shire Council Plan 2025-2029 on Council's website.
