These are, in order, the Federation council’s top priorities for a Future Federation.
The Future Federation 2040 Community Strategy Plan, developed by community and council, was presented at council’s latest monthly meeting on June 17.
Based on the community's vision initially developed in 2018 and reviewed in 2021, the 2040 Community Strategy Plan reflects the aspirations and priorities of the community to 2040.
Improved roads, drainage, and sewerage systems throughout the council area was emphasised, together with heavy vehicle bypasses to relieve traffic in main streets, streetscape revitalisation to improve town centres, and enhanced riverfront developments.
Affordable housing for young families and downsizers was the second priority, including the managing of holiday rentals to balance accommodation needs and addressing homelessness and housing diversity.
Supporting businesses through grants, education and reduced red tape, increasing retail diversity and implementing economic strategies for job growth was the third priority.
Improving access to medical and allied health services, including increased permanent ambulance stations was sought by the community, along with more events to bring the community together, including the preservation and celebration of heritage and history.
Safety and security should be improved with better lighting and safe walkways according to the survey, together with an increased police presence to reduce crime.
Improving secondary education facilities and a call for vocational training and support was considered important.
Better parks, gardens and recreational spaces was mentioned by the public, specifically relating to improved tree canopy cover in towns for shade and aesthetic value, moving towards a decarbonised economy and adapting to global warming and climate change.
Transport services connecting the towns with regional centres rated as a priority, and incorporating connected walking and cycling trails, as well as traffic calming and pedestrian crossings.
Federation Council has undertaken an extensive planning and engagement process to develop a new Delivery Program and Operational Plan.
Council’s combined Delivery Program and Operational Plan sets out the action plan for achieving the community priorities outlined and supported by the annual budget.
Adoption at next week’s meeting
Council will consider all community feedback in adopting its draft Delivery Program 2025-2029, Operational Plan 2025-2026 and Annual Budget 2025-2026 at an Extraordinary Council meeting on June 30.
Council’s general manager Adrian Butler said the 12 submissions received by council were very detailed concerning suggested changes to council’s draft documents and well thought through for readability.
“They will certainly be considered for the June extraordinary meeting,” Mr Butler said.
The numerous pop-up sessions proved popular with some residents who made comment for the first time, according to Mr Butler.
Cr Pat Bourke complimented staff in producing the plan.
“With the community’s wants and wishes, there are a lot of items in our plan that state and federal governments should be funding, such as health and housing; it’s cost shifting,” he said.
“It’s an ongoing problem, for all councils.” Mr Butler said.
“I think when people delve into that they understand.”
