Swan Hill Rural City Council has joined eight neighbouring councils to endorse an independent, evidence-based strategy aimed at preparing regional communities for the potential impacts of large-scale energy and mining projects.
The Resource Ready: North-Western Victoria Energy and Mining Impact and Readiness Strategy outlines the challenges and opportunities associated with proposed developments across the region, including workforce demand, housing shortages and infrastructure pressures.
Council’s Mayor, Cr Stuart King said the Strategy is not about project approval.
“Local Government is not the planning authority or the decision maker for these such projects – those decisions and approvals are made at State and Federal level – but we do carry the local impacts of these developments. This is about ensuring our communities, agricultural sector and local way of life are protected as best we can - regardless of which projects proceed.”
“We’re not rolling out the red carpet for proponents - we’re focused on protecting our communities and securing the best possible outcomes for our region.”
“The Strategy highlights key challenges, including extremely low rental vacancy rates, workforce shortages, and growing pressure on roads, water and essential services. It also reinforces the need to safeguard agriculture, a major contributor to the regional economy,” Cr King said.
Cr King said the Strategy, developed in partnership with councils across north-west Victoria, outlines key priority actions including infrastructure improvements, planning for worker housing, support for local businesses and strong advocacy for investment.
“Importantly, delivery of these actions will require significant State and Federal Government support,” he added. “Energy and mining development is driven by government agendas, so they need to invest in the regions impacted.”
The nine Councils will now use the Strategy to advocate for funding and resources to ensure the region is better prepared for future growth and change.