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Greater Shepparton City Council is the governing municipal authority for the City of Greater Shepparton, located in the Goulburn Valley region of Victoria, Australia. As a progressive and economically strategic local government area, the Council plays a pivotal role in shaping regional development, delivering community services, supporting business innovation, and enhancing liveability for over 68,000 residents.
Organization Overview
Greater Shepparton City Council governs one of Victoria's most diverse and agriculturally significant regions. Encompassing the urban centre of Shepparton along with surrounding townships such as Mooroopna, Tatura, and Murchison, the council manages infrastructure, social services, strategic planning, and economic development over an area of 2,422 square kilometres.
The Council is led by Mayor Cr Shane Sali and CEO Ms Fiona Le Gassick and operates under the framework of the Local Government Act 2020 (VIC).
Key Responsibilities and Services
Greater Shepparton City Council offers a wide range of community and regional services, including:
- Urban Planning & Development Control
- Waste Management and Environmental Sustainability
- Public Infrastructure and Roads Maintenance
- Recreation and Community Facilities Management
- Tourism Promotion and Cultural Events
- Business Support and Economic Development Initiatives
- Youth, Aged, and Multicultural Services
- Emergency and Health Services Coordination
These services aim to promote equity, economic vitality, and sustainable development within the region.
Economic and Demographic Insights
- Population: 68,409 residents as per ABS 2021 Census
- Median Age: 39 years
- Gross Regional Product (GRP): AUD 4.32 billion (2023)
- Unemployment Rate: 3.8% (2023)
- Top Industries:
- Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing
- Manufacturing
- Health Care and Social Assistance
- Retail Trade
- Education and Training
Greater Shepparton is the food bowl of Victoria and contributes significantly to Australia’s fresh produce, including more than 25% of the country’s stone fruits and 90% of processed fruits.
Infrastructure and Investment Projects
- Shepparton Art Museum (SAM): A $50 million world-class art precinct opened in 2021, boosting regional tourism and cultural identity.
- GV Link Freight and Logistics Hub: Strategic 300-hectare intermodal business park aimed at enhancing agribusiness logistics.
- Shepparton Sports and Events Centre: Under development as a major sporting precinct for regional and national competitions.
- Maude Street Mall Redevelopment: $17 million transformation project improving retail and community space.
The Council actively attracts government and private investment to fuel job creation and regional competitiveness.
Business and Industry Support
Greater Shepparton City Council fosters a pro-business environment through:
- Dedicated Economic Development Department
- Business mentoring and grant programs
- Support for startups and microbusinesses
- Export readiness and trade facilitation programs
- Investment attraction and site selection assistance
Programs like the “Invest Greater Shepparton” initiative have successfully drawn national interest from sectors including food manufacturing, logistics, and renewable energy.
Regional Leadership and Governance
- Mayor: Cr Shane Sali – elected leader and advocate for economic growth, regional innovation, and youth development.
- CEO: Fiona Le Gassick – responsible for executive operations, community engagement, and delivery of strategic council plans.
Council decisions are guided by the 2021–2025 Council Plan, with core pillars around connectivity, inclusivity, sustainability, and resilience.
Sustainability and Environment
The Council implements progressive environmental policies through:
- Climate Emergency Action Plan
- Zero Net Emissions by 2030 Target
- Biodiversity Strategy and Urban Forest Program
- Renewable energy projects including solar installations on civic buildings
- Sustainable Water Management for parks, sports fields, and public facilities
Greater Shepparton was among the first regional councils to declare a Climate Emergency and is a leader in rural sustainability planning.
Tourism and Cultural Promotion
- Hosts the iconic Shepparton Festival, AFL preseason matches, and Victorian Open Bowls Championship
- Promotes Aboriginal heritage trails and local multicultural events
- Developed the Greater Shepparton Visitor Centre supporting over 200,000 tourist inquiries annually
- Features landmarks such as KidsTown Adventure Playground, SAM, and Aquamoves Wellness Centre
Achievements and Recognition
- Awarded "Council of the Year" at the 2022 LGPro Awards for Excellence
- $149 million in capital works delivered in the 2022–23 fiscal year
- Recognized for Best Practice in Community Engagement in large infrastructure planning
- Winner of the 2021 National Awards for Local Government – Regional Growth Category
Community Testimonials
- “The revitalization of the Maude Street Mall has completely transformed the city centre—huge boost for local retailers.” – Local Business Owner
- “As a young entrepreneur, I’ve found incredible support from Greater Shepparton Council’s startup programs.” – Resident Startup Founder
Strategic Priorities
The 2021–2025 Council Plan focuses on five strategic priorities:
- Sustainable Growth
- Connected Communities
- Diverse Economy
- Healthy Environment
- Cultural Vibrancy
These strategic directions position Greater Shepparton as a dynamic regional hub primed for population growth, business expansion, and environmental stewardship.